The Lost Chapter By Caroline Bishop

‘The Lost Chapter’ is the latest book by Caroline Bishop.

Florence and Lilli meet at finishing school in Lyon. Despite some differences, they forge a firm friendship that promises to last a lifetime. But a terrible betrayal prematurely tears them apart. Years later in England, Florence has become the woman her friend knew she could be a creative, bold, and independent. The exact opposite of Alice, a young woman troubled by a recent trauma, whom Florence is determined to help bring out of her shell. Just as Lilli once did for her. When Florence discovers that the novel she’s reading is written by Lilli and is based on their time at school, the two stories begin to unfold together. Past events illuminate the future, and it becomes clear that long-held secrets can’t stay buried for ever.

A story that flows through many years, this book is beautifully written that’s packed with mystery and nostalgia.

Written in the past and present tense it’s seen through the narrative of Florence, now an 80 year old woman. She’s a successful lino artist and when a woman from her past pops up with a book about her time living in Lyon, Florence finds herself at the centre of this story and reliving her past. The past scenes are Florence as a 17 year old woman living in Lyon where she befriends Lilli. Meanwhile, Alice is Flo’s neighbour, a quiet young woman who walks Flo’s dog now that Flo is too old to be out and about. Flo befriends Alice and sees herself in Alice as a young woman.

This is joyous and sentimental story. It’s flows beautifully with wonderful characters, cleverly crafted storyline set against the backdrop of Lyon. The different narratives from a young and old perspective gave an insight into the story. I loved Alice, she’s warm character and for her youth, she’s wise. Having experienced an ordeal, her life has changed drastically. The past sequences made for fascinating reading and really set up the story beautifully.

‘The Lost Chapter’ is a poignant story about decisions, secrets and friendship that tugs on the heartstrings

You can buy ‘The Lost Chapter’ from Amazon and is available from good bookshops.