Synopsis (credit: www.amazon.co.uk)

Isabelle, a wealthy American widow, arrives in France to restart her life and discovers she has her choice of eligible suitors. Torn between a placid liaison with a southerner and a tortuous affair with a Frenchman, Isabelle’s plans suddenly take an unexpected turn that will ultimately lead her to a love that will force her to reconsider the implications of her affluent existence.

On the 1001 Books You Must Read Before You Die List.

... and truth be told, that's the only reason I bought the book. The blurb on the back of the book is similar to the above summary — ostensibly not the kind of book that normally catches my eye.

(Bought second-hand at CAFDA Charity Bookshop, Regent Avenue, Sea Point.)

An interesting read from many angles, although some of the chapters and scenes were long-winded and would have benefited from further editing.

High-society lifestyle in the 20s and 30s is depicted with apparent inside knowledge. I imagine that many of the viewpoints and insights would have been progressive and daring for the time. Ultimately it left me relieved that I live in different times. And with less wealth.

To be left in the waiting area on the 8th floor.

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BookCrossing has not taken off in a big way in South Africa yet, but there are a number of dedicated BookCrossers across the country who are actively involved to grow the concept. A discussion group for BookCrossers in the wider Cape Town area, BCct, was set up to make it easier to arrange meetups or to spread local news. If you are a BookCrosser from this part of the world or planning a visit, please feel free to join. Visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/bcct for more information.

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