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?
This poignant and evocative tale of WWII romance, love in wartime, and artistic resilience reveals that art can illuminate the path forward even in the darkest times. The Christmas Painting is a 20th-century historical fiction story perfect for the fans of Laura Hillenbrand, Pam Jenoff, and Deborah Swift.
Autorentext
My latest novel, Madame Fiocca, is now available. Based on a true story, this gripping adventure follows the tempestuous life of Nancy Wake before and during the Second World War. The Beauty Shop, my debut novel, was awarded the B.R.A.G. Medallion. It is based on the true story of Sir Archibald McIndoe and the Guinea Pig Club - an exclusive club for RAF pilots and airmen who required plastic surgery as a result of their war injuries and were under the care of this enigmatic New Zealander and pioneering plastic surgeon. I am presently working on my latest book, a contemporary romance, due to be released soon in 2020, after which I will be continuing with the next historical fiction title. For all my latest book news, join the mailing list here: https://suzyhendersonauthor.com/sign-up/ I live with my family on the edge of the Lake District, an area that has always inspired me. After a career in healthcare, I studied creative writing and English at The Open University and fell in love with writing. Armed with a pen, a love of reading and a growing obsession with military and aviation history, I slipped seamlessly into writing historical fiction. Please do catch up with me on social media here: https://twitter.com/Suzy_Henderson https://www.facebook.com/SuzyHendersonAuthor/