There are so many reasons to read this one. The depth of the story and breadth of the plot are fused with Alice's life and provides a fascinating look at life and love during dramatic political change while war explodes on several fronts. Many issues are addressed including women's suffrage, sexual freedom, the dismal horrors of war, poverty, and the destruction of society as the people know it. The historical background emphasizes how a country changes when its political system is destroyed.
Alice's story is set in post WWI England and the upheaval during the Russian Revolution amid struggles with the Germans who are invading the country. Young and idealistic, Alice Fry is aware of changing social standards when she falls for Edward Cobb. She is naïve enough to believe that she can ignore the more conservative societal rules for love. Edward is the son and heir of a baronet whose family expects him to marry within accepted mores. Yet, he, too, is blinded by love believing that his family will understand the intelligent young woman he is courting. However, when her father is arrested for publishing radical pieces, Edward realizes that his political aspirations may well be damaged if he marries the daughter of such a man and withdraws his marriage proposal to her. After the breakup, Alice accepts the offer of serving as governess to a Russian baron's children and travels to Russia. Pregnant with Edward's son, she keeps her condition secret from all but her parents, taking on the role of a French widow.
What a tale. And, it's all coupled with marvelous writing. There is so much more to discover about Alice, the baron and Edso do read this story.
Alice's story is set in post WWI England and the upheaval during the Russian Revolution amid struggles with the Germans who are invading the country. Young and idealistic, Alice Fry is aware of changing social standards when she falls for Edward Cobb. She is naïve enough to believe that she can ignore the more conservative societal rules for love. Edward is the son and heir of a baronet whose family expects him to marry within accepted mores. Yet, he, too, is blinded by love believing that his family will understand the intelligent young woman he is courting. However, when her father is arrested for publishing radical pieces, Edward realizes that his political aspirations may well be damaged if he marries the daughter of such a man and withdraws his marriage proposal to her. After the breakup, Alice accepts the offer of serving as governess to a Russian baron's children and travels to Russia. Pregnant with Edward's son, she keeps her condition secret from all but her parents, taking on the role of a French widow.
What a tale. And, it's all coupled with marvelous writing. There is so much more to discover about Alice, the baron and Edso do read this story.
If you liked Dr. Zshivago or Anna Karenina , then you will like Alice in Exile. A poignant story of love and betrayal, sacrifice and longing. Set in pre and post WW1 England, and the turbulent political times of the Russion Revolution, this book portrays history in a vivid and yet personal manner. Facts are fused with fiction seemlessly. From women's suffrage and s*xual freedom, to the horrors of war and pillage, the true theme of this book is the dichotomy between human fraility and determination. Alice is a new young woman, aware of social standards but young enough to believe she can endure the rules and rigidity for love. A betrayal leads her to Russia, where she truly finds of what stuff she is made.
Historical fiction/romance. Recommended for those who love a good story, yet have patience with long descriptions of war, historical politics, etc.
Historical fiction/romance. Recommended for those who love a good story, yet have patience with long descriptions of war, historical politics, etc.
