Publishers Weekly
★ 01/30/2023
Willig (Band of Sisters) delivers a winning epic of war and friendship in the late 19th century. The nonlinear timeline begins with Betsy Hayes, a Smith College graduate and aspiring archaeologist, boarding a boat for Cuba in 1898, determined to stop her estranged friend, Ava, from taking a dangerous nursing post during the Spanish American War. Betsy had already witnessed the horror of the Greco-Turkish War, and though the details don’t come out until later, Betsy believes her own life is of little value. In flashbacks to Athens, where Betsy had traveled two years earlier hoping to work on a dig, she meets Charles de Robecourt, a charming married archeologist who gives her a leg up (they also have an affair, and she falls in love with him). But Betsy’s choice to become a nurse when war breaks out in Greece drives a wedge between her and Ava, who doesn’t think Betsy is cut out for the work, and she faces further heartache involving Charles. Willig’s strong character work and extensive research on the Smith College Relief Unit brings Betsy to vivid life. The harrowing battle details, too, are spot on, from the Spaniards’ smokeless gunpowder to the menacing whine of a Mauser bullet. Readers will devour this riveting tale. (Mar.)
From the Publisher
Filled with vivid details, shocking truths, and two sly, strong women who bring panache and humor to every scene. I’m simply in awe of the masterful, magical way Lauren Willig makes history come alive.” — Fiona Davis, New York Times bestselling author of The Magnolia Palace
"Lauren Willig delivers a winning epic of war and friendship. Readers will devour this riveting tale." — Publishers Weekly (starred review)
"With her trademark wit and storytelling talent, Lauren Willig takes you on a journey into history that is both wildly entertaining and deeply heartfelt. You’ll be rooting for this courageous, delightful heroine on every page." — Simone St. James, New York Times bestselling author of The Book of Cold Cases
"Brilliant…historical fiction at its absolute finest - with an intricately woven plot, vivid historical details, and complex female characters that you cannot help but root for from the start." — Jane Healey, author of Goodnight from Paris
“Vivid and unforgettable, with a captivating cast of entertaining characters and immersive historical details, Lauren Willig transports us to the front lines of two fascinating, yet often overlooked, conflicts. I loved the adventurous, strong-minded women of this book and their refusal to settle for anything less than exactly what they wanted." — Elise Hooper, author of Angels of the Pacific
"Willig delivers yet another engrossing historical yarn, replete with surprising twists and compelling romances." — Booklist
"Lauren Willig is at the top of her game as one of the finest historical fiction authors writing today. This is a powerful story about two fascinating young women against an equally fascinating backdrop. This one has everything— romance, intrigue, adventure, all told with the finesse of a master storyteller!! Book clubs are going to eat this up!" — M.J. Rose, bestselling author of Seduction
“With heart and humor, Willig explores the complexities of female friendships—feuds, forgiveness, and all. A touching portrait of triumph and found family in the midst of war. Bravo!” — Stephanie Dray, New York Times bestselling author of America’s First Daughter & The Women of Chateau Lafayette, on Band of Sisters
“Willig expertly uses historical detail in her seamless, well-plotted tale. This will entice readers from the very first page.” — Publishers Weekly on Band of Sisters
“A compelling tale of love, resilience, expectations, bravery, and above all, the powerful, redemptive bonds of female friendship.” — Kristin Harmel, New York Times bestselling author of The Book of Lost Names, on Band of Sisters
“An inspiring ode to the indomitable strength of women and the fierce, indelible bonds of female friendship, a tale of she-roes that will make you both laugh and cry.” — Allison Pataki, New York Times bestselling author of The Queen’s Fortune, on Band of Sisters
“Tense, atmospheric, and gorgeously written, The Summer Country is a novel to savor!” — Kate Quinn, New York Times bestselling author of The Diamond Eye
