THE CHRISTMAS PAINTING
Set against the tumultuous backdrop of World War II, The Christmas Painting: A WWII Short Story follows the journey of eighteen-year-old Elsa Austen, an aspiring artist whose dreams are stifled by her father’s expectations. Instead of pursuing art college, Elsa is pushed towards a more conventional path—an advantageous marriage.
But destiny has other plans. Everything changes when Elsa meets Alex Brandon, a local farmer and soon-to-be RAF Spitfire pilot, by the serene shores of Buttermere in the Lake District. Drawn to her talent, Alex asks Elsa to paint his portrait as a parting gift for his anxious parents before he leaves to serve his country. Their time together amidst the summer breeze sparks a romance that neither anticipated.
As Alex heads to war, their love deepens through the exchange of heartfelt letters. Returning home for Christmas, Alex presents the portrait to his parents, unaware that this painting will open doors for Elsa far beyond her village. Before returning to the front lines, Alex has an important question for her. Will the new year bring the joy of a lifetime, or will it deliver unforeseen heartbreak?
“Atmospheric and powerful story of a pilot, a surgeon and a woman in the WAAF during WW2. It is a story based on the Guinea Pig Club, and of a pioneering surgeon Sir Archibald McIndoe. He helped men not only with their horrific physical injuries but to heal their emotions and souls. A superb debut novel which felt like a labour of love from the author. Extremely well written story of a heroic time about ordinary people.”
5-Star Review.
Suzy is genuinely an exceptionally talented woman, who made me feel like I was back in the 1940s. She writes beautifully and passionately, and you just know that she cares about what she’s writing about. I cannot wait to read more of her work (but next time I’ll make sure I have the tissues ready).”
5-Star Review.
“Suzy Henderson has written a book that is beautifully heartbreaking and inspiring, as well as deeply educational, and books like this are incredibly important right now. The Beauty Shop isn’t just a book or a story; it’s a piece of art that has been stitched together so delicately, entwining both history and passion into one. I genuinely do not have the words to write a review like I normally would, because this book has left me in a state of shock. This book stole, crushed and healed my heart over and over, and I do not have a single criticism.
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