Synopses & Reviews
A lyrical historical romance for fans of
The English Patient
Eighteen-year-old Ellen never expected the Hallendorf school to be, well, quite so unusual. After all, her life back in england with her suffragette mother and liberated aunts certainly couldnt be called normal. but buried deep in the beautiful Austrian countryside, ellen discovers an eccentric world occupied by wild children and even wilder teachers, experimental dancers and a tortoise on wheels. And then there is the particurally intriguing, enigmatic, and very handsome Marek, part-time gardener and fencing teacher. ellen is instantly attracted to the mysterious gardener, but Hitlers reich is already threatening their peaceful world. only when she discovers Mareks true identity and his dangerous mission does ellen realize the depth of her feelings for himand the danger their newfound love faces in the shadow of war.
Review
"Ibbotson, who grew up in Austria and fled the Nazis herself, provides rich details of prewar life in Vienna and the alpine countryside. Her prose is like a Linzertortewell constructed but awfully sweet. Still, this is a lively read." Library Journal
Review
"A happy ending is, of course, guaranteed, though the predictability barely detracts from this companionable tale, populated with odd, likable characters. Fluff, but high-quality fluff." Kirkus Reviews
About the Author
Eva Ibbotson lives in the north of England.