The Baker's Secret

I didn't think I would ever be able to describe a story set in WW2 occupied France as CUTE, but this is it. Emma (Emmanuel) wages her own style of resistance against the occupying German army. This involves baking bread, stealing fuel and distributing supplies amongst the villagers, all behind the German's backs. Obviously there are some grim moments but generally a really good uplifting story.

In occupied France a small village on the coast struggles to survive the brutality and starvation that comes with the German soldiers. Although it's primarily centred around Emma, a genius baker, who creates a network of hidden trade to help her neighbours survive, it also has moments following the stories of the many different inhabitants.

It's a candour is heart wrenching as the sorrow dealt to these poor souls is held not lightly but with defeat. Where even “love” can turn on you.

It leads up to the D-Day invasion right in time for a truly defeated village. Our heroine has refused the resistance right up till the moment, but is in the best position to help the forces as soon as they arrive due to her wit and courage.

This book reminded me of a song. The wording is magical and the entire book plays out like a dance. Granted a very sad dance where the weariness can be felt by the end.

I was disappointed in The Baker's Secret. It had all the qualities of a terrific novel, but it fell short. The character development was lacking and I found much of the story was not as riveting as I felt it could be. Without giving anything away, let me just say that I feel there are better WWII stories out there and although this one was interesting in parts it was certainly not my favourite.