Publisher's Synopsis
The war taught her to fight. The children taught her to hope...
The Schoolteacher of Saint Michel is a heartrending and deeply moving story of love and hope in World War II. From the USA Today bestselling author of The Missing Pieces of Nancy Moon, this exquisitely beautiful novel is perfect for readers of The Postmistress, Lilac Girls and The Girl from Vichy.
1942. At the end of the day, in the sleepy French village of Saint Michel, the schoolteacher releases her pupils. She checks they have their identity passes, and warns them not to stop until the German guards have opened the barrier and they are through. As they fly into their mothers' arms, she breathes a sigh of relief. No one is safe now in Saint Michel. Not even the children.
Years later, at her father's Berkshire cottage, Hannah Taverner is stunned to discover a letter left to her by her beloved late grandmother, Gigi: 'My darling girl, I need you to find someone. Her name was Lucie Laval, and she lived in Saint Michel. Find her, if it is not too late, and tell her I am sorry...'
Hannah travels to Saint Michel, nestled deep within the Dordogne landscape, and learns that Lucie was the schoolteacher there during the Nazi occupation that split Saint Michel in two, with one side under German rule, the other in Free France. There Hannah begins to unravel a forgotten history of bravery and sacrifice. And finally discovers the heartrending secret that binds her beloved grandmother to the remarkable Lucie Laval...
A story of friendship, courage and hope, The Schoolteacher of Saint Michel is an unforgettable read.
Readers adore Sarah Steele's novels:
'Outstandingly beautiful. This book took my breath away. A sheer joy'
'OMG WHAT A BOOK. Fabulously, beautifully written book. It definitely kept me hooked. This story is full of everything - love, heartache and loss'
'One of the best books I have read this year. It has it all - love, mystery, deceit and a secret. Five stars all the way'
'A wonderful book, which took me on a journey and stayed with me for days afterwards'
'A captivating read of secrets untold. A moving story which I read in one day. Many twists and turns enhanced this gripping novel and kept me enthralled'
'I loved this story of love, friendship and hope. It's perfect'
