Rhys Bowen, bestselling author of The Rose Arbor and The Venice Sketchbook, has delivered yet another captivating tale with Mrs. Endicott’s Splendid Adventure. Set in pre-WWII Europe, this historical novel blends resilience, friendship, and the thrill of unexpected reinvention into a heartwarming story of second chances.
The Story
The year is 1938 in Surrey, England. After thirty years of marriage, Ellie Endicott is blindsided when her husband Lionel announces he wants a divorce trading her in for someone younger. Instead of succumbing to despair, Ellie chooses reinvention. She takes Lionel’s prized Bentley and, along with her loyal housekeeper Mavis and her friend Dora, sets off on an impromptu journey to the South of France.
When their car breaks down in the fishing village of Saint Benet, what begins as a temporary stop becomes a turning point. The women find an abandoned villa overlooking the sea and slowly build new lives surrounded by warmth, community, and unexpected love. But as the shadow of war looms, even this idyllic escape faces inevitable upheaval.
What Works
Bowen has a gift for creating endearing, relatable characters. Ellie’s transformation from a devoted wife blindsided by betrayal into a woman rediscovering independence is inspiring. Mavis and Dora add humor and depth, and their trio embodies themes of resilience and female friendship.
The French village setting is a delight, painted with vivid detail that makes you long for the Mediterranean coast. The sense of community and belonging the women discover is as much a part of the story as Ellie’s blossoming romance with Nico, the enigmatic fisherman.
Readers have especially praised:
- The charming, hopeful tone
- The message that it’s never too late for adventure or love
- Warm, optimistic characters who are easy to root for
- A strong sense of place, from cozy village celebrations to the villa overlooking the sea
Where It Falters
Some readers found the plot a touch predictable, with conflicts resolved perhaps too neatly. For those who crave darker or more complex historical fiction, the optimistic tone may feel light. Yet even with these minor critiques, most agree that the charm and heart of the novel outweigh its simplicity.
Final Thoughts
Mrs. Endicott’s Splendid Adventure is exactly what its title promises: a delightful, uplifting escape that blends historical fiction with themes of hope, reinvention, and community. It is a refreshing reminder that life can begin again at any stage, and that friendship and love can be found in the most unexpected places.
If you are looking for an engaging, heartwarming read with a touch of history and romance, this novel is well worth your time.
You can get your copy here: Buy Mrs. Endicott’s Splendid Adventure on Amazon
