The Girl You Left Behind

Oct 19, 2012 Stacia ~ Mistress of Mediocrity rated it 3 of 5 stars

Recommended to Stacia ~ Mistress of Mediocrity by: Buddy read w/Zemira

Shelves: adult

"It was never about the painting, Sophie."
And there it was, confirmation of my fate.

3.25 stars. I loved so many things about this book, especially the historical story of Sophie and her Edouard. Their legacy was worth at least 4 and a half stars. Unfortunately, I felt the modern day story of Liv and Paul to have floundered on for such a lengthy amount of time that it almost took the focus away from the girl in the painting (who was in my opinion the star of the book and the reason for why eve...more

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May 15, 2013 Tania rated it 3 of 5 stars

Shelves: favorite-books

I never knew real happiness until you.

3.5 stars. In a lot of ways this reminds me of The Storyteller. It's also a dual timeframe story with one playing of in WW1 and one in 2001. I thought the WW1 story with Sophie and Edouard was beautiful, and it touched my heart. Sophie is presented with an impossible decision and has to live with the consequences. What the author did so well in this book is to really put you in Sophie's shoes, so even if you don't agree with her decision, you're unable to ju...more

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Aug 15, 2012 Zarina rated it 5 of 5 stars

This is an astonishing novel which beautifully connects present and past in a tale of war and love.

The Girl You Left Behind has a dual time-frame narrative; the first part is seen through the eyes of a women in occupied France in 1916, the second through one living in modern day London. I'm not generally a fan of historical literature, particularly one with a war setting, so I was slightly reluctant at the start of this novel. However, any doubts I had were washed away mere minutes after picking...more This is an astonishing novel which beautifully connects present and past in a tale of war and love.

The Girl You Left Behind has a dual time-frame narrative; the first part is seen through the eyes of a women in occupied France in 1916, the second through one living in modern day London. I'm not generally a fan of historical literature, particularly one with a war setting, so I was slightly reluctant at the start of this novel. However, any doubts I had were washed away mere minutes after picking up the novel as the story within was so gripping that I could barely manage to put it down at all.

Part one of the novel is set mostly in the occupied French village St Péronne at the height of the first World War. Sophie LeFèvre lives with her brother Aurélien, sister Hélène, and her sister's children in their former hotel La Coq, while her husband and brother-in-law are somewhere at the front but haven't been heard of for months. Their house used to be a decent hotel but stripped bare by the Germans there's little left of the glorious rooms where both Sophie and Hélène spent their wedding nights. The bar downstairs is still very lively during the day, though rations are low so the gathering of people has little to do with splurging on alcoholic drinks but more with finding solace amongst one another.

Author Jojo Moyes paints a sober picture of the town and its people that slowly turns more gritty as the story moves along; with neighbour turning on neighbour as the slightest of suspicions. Sophie witnesses the brutal impact the towns gossip can have first hand as the new German Kommandant takes a fancy first to Edouard's painting of Sophie, 'The Girl You Left Behind', and then also to the women herself. Accused of being a collaborator Sophie feels she has nothing left to lose when she makes one final attempt to find her way back to Edouard.

At a crucial stage in Sophie's story we suddenly flick to London in 2006 and meet young widow Olivia Halston. Her husband died four years ago and despite friends and family urging her to move on she desperately clings to anything that remains of David. This means she's had to remortgage the house she lives in as she doesn't want to part with the architectural legacy David left behind.

When Live meets the charming Paul McCafferty she, for the first time since David's passing, finally feels she may have a chance at a romantic relationship again. That is, until she finds out that he works for a company that specialises in recovering stolen art and that a painting bought for her by David, 'The Girl You Left Behind', is currently being pursued by ancestors of Edouard LeFèvre. What follows is Paul and Liv's searches into the past, Sophie's past to be exact, to try and uncover the truth behind the painting's journey. Liv desperately tries to proof it was never stolen as the painting symbolises a little piece of David she doesn't want to part with. But on the opposite end Paul continues to find evidence to state the contrary and slowly Sophie sees the painting slipping away from her fingers.

Through the characters' combined research into the painting's history the reader picks up bits and pieces of Sophie's life after the story was left off in the novel. As Paul and Liv piece together the faith of the young women who just as desperately tried to get back to Edouard as Sophie is trying to cling to the fragments of David she has not yet lost, so does the reader.

At this stage I honestly couldn't flip the pages quick enough to find out what had happened to Sophie and what would happen to the painting. Written incredibly engaging both stories were unfolding at a pace that keeps the reader on the edge of his or her seat for the duration of the novel. The final quarter in particular was revealing and an absolute emotional roller-coaster for me. I went from feeling sad when confronted with the suffering of both women central in the story, to angry at the inconsiderate and greedy people they come across, until finally a sense of serenity came over me as the novel came to satisfactory conclusion within its final pages.

Touching, moving, heart-breaking at times but heart-warming in the end, The Girl You Left Behind truly is one superb piece of writing. I wonder if it's too soon to start reading it again straight away? This time perhaps not flipping the pages quite as quickly as I've done before in my desperation to find out what would happen next, but instead relishing the beautiful words of author Jojo Moyes. Too soon or not, one thing I will certainly do is add Moyes' back-catalogue to my to-read list as I've found a new inspiring author that I certainly want to read more of. (less)

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Jul 17, 2012 Teresa rated it 4 of 5 stars

Hot on the heels of her hit novel Me Before You, Jojo Moyes, twice winner of the RNA Novel of the Year Award , has struck gold again with The Girl You Left Behind. Those familiar with her back catalogue will already know what a diverse author she is, every novel is different from its predecessor – her latest offering has a dual time-frame narrative (my favourite!) an ideal vehicle to show her versatility and skill as a consummate storyteller.

Sometimes dual narratives can be distracting, disrupti...more Hot on the heels of her hit novel Me Before You, Jojo Moyes, twice winner of the RNA Novel of the Year Award , has struck gold again with The Girl You Left Behind. Those familiar with her back catalogue will already know what a diverse author she is, every novel is different from its predecessor – her latest offering has a dual time-frame narrative (my favourite!) an ideal vehicle to show her versatility and skill as a consummate storyteller.

Sometimes dual narratives can be distracting, disrupting the story’s flow, but here we have time to savour the story of Sophie in occupied France in 1916 with the first third of the novel dedicated to her troubled life under Nazi rule. Her artist husband, Edouard, is away fighting at the front and she and her sister, Helene remain in St Peronne, scrabbling an existence, forced to feed the German occupiers in their little hotel, Le Coq Rouge. It’s a constant battle to survive, treading the fine line between resistance and collaboration – some of the villagers quick to make assumptions if anyone associates with the enemy with Sophie, despite her best intentions, becoming the target of their gossip. Jojo Moyes succeeds in creating a living, breathing community, feeling the strain of occupation, their loss of identity.

We leave Sophie’s story at a crucial moment and are flung into present day London where Liv Halston, a young widow, is beset with financial worries and finding it difficult to move on after the death of her architect husband. Her most treasured possession is a painting entitled The Girl You Left Behind which her husband bought on their honeymoon. The girl in the painting is Sophie Lefevre and her portrait becomes the subject of a hotly contested court case as Edouard Lefevre’s descendants claim it was looted by the Nazis and therefore it should be returned to its rightful owners. Throw in a bit of romance for Liv and you have the perfect recipe for a compelling read where voices from the past have a strong impact on the present.

This is a very cleverly constructed story which drew me in from the opening pages. Once again, I preferred the historical setting of Sophie’s story to that of Liv’s modern-day travails but the narratives are designed to complement rather than compete with each other and I loved the way elements of Sophie’s story are echoed in Liv’s life.

Jojo Moyes is going from strength to strength with Penguin. The Girl You Left Behind should ensure the continued expansion of her fanbase and increased recognition for this very talented writer. Looking forward to the next one!

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Oct 10, 2012 Marg rated it 4 of 5 stars

I really love split time narrative novels when they are done well, and this book certainly qualifies as one of those!

The Girl You Left Behind starts in occupied France during World War I. The main female character, Sophie Lefevre, has withdrawn to a small village with her younger brother, her sister Sophie and Sophie's children to run the local hotel. Their men have gone off to war to fight the German army, leaving their families in what they hope are safe surrounds.

Sophie's husband is a talente...more

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Jul 24, 2012 Karen rated it 5 of 5 stars

Although I am still working my way through her back catalogue, I’ve loved this author’s books and was thrilled to receive an advance copy of her latest one.

One of my favourite genres is the dual time story – when it’s done well. I am pleased to say that Ms Moyes has covered this extremely well. I was immediately drawn in to the lives of Sophie Lefevre and her family when the story started in 1916. I had to keep reminding myself that this was set during WW1 as it was so easy to think the story wa...more Although I am still working my way through her back catalogue, I’ve loved this author’s books and was thrilled to receive an advance copy of her latest one.

One of my favourite genres is the dual time story – when it’s done well. I am pleased to say that Ms Moyes has covered this extremely well. I was immediately drawn in to the lives of Sophie Lefevre and her family when the story started in 1916. I had to keep reminding myself that this was set during WW1 as it was so easy to think the story was set in WW2.

The lives and difficulties of Sophie and her sister Helene were very well portrayed and the hardships suffered as a result of the German occupation of their town were so believable. Sophie, in particular, was a very engaging character and in the absence of both her own beloved husband Edouard and Helene’s husband who were away fighting for their country, she was the lynchpin of the family. The title of the story refers to a portrait of Sophie, painted by her artist husband and is one of her most treasured possessions. Unfortunately for Sophie, the local Kommandant also takes a liking to the portrait and thus both her and her family’s lives are thrown into danger when difficult decisions have to be made.

I was so captivated by Sophie’s story that I was almost bereft when her story suddenly ended and Liv’s began. I normally tend to prefer one era to another in dual time frame stories and when Liv’s story began in 2006 I was worried that I wouldn’t enjoy her story as much however I am pleased to say that Liv’s contribution was equally enjoyable. The painting of Sophie comes to the fore in Liv’s life and again is the cause of much soul searching and heartbreak.

Despite being separated by nearly 100 years the stories of Sophie and Liv are intrinsically linked throughout the book and both their characters show strength which neither thought they possessed.

I enjoyed this book immensely and would recommend this to a reader who enjoys a story where they are completely pulled in and enthralled by the characters and the storyline .
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Apr 29, 2013 Lozzle_pops rated it 4 of 5 stars

After hearing lots of good things about Jojo Moyes recently, I was really excited to read "The Girl You Left Behind". Beginning in occupied France in 1916, it tells the story of two women in two very different times. First there is Sophie Lefevre, running a hotel that must provide food for the Germans stationed in her town whilst she fears for her artist husband fighting on the front line. It then switches to modern-day London and the story of Liv Halston, who is struggling to move on from the d...more

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Jan 22, 2013 Katie rated it 4 of 5 stars

"Two young women, separated by a century, are united in their determination to fight for the thing they love the most - whatever the cost"

I should start by saying that this is not the normal type of novel that i read so i felt that it would be a real chore to read this. However, I was pleasantly surprised!
The novel itself has a lovely cover, I was instantly drawn to it! JoJo Moyes tells two stories in this novel, one of Sophie and the other of Liv. Two women that live in different centuries but...more

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Jan 07, 2013 Michelle rated it 3 of 5 stars

I loved this, couldn't put it down -until the ending. So don't read any further if you haven't read the book.

The First World War story is of the German occupation of France. Sophie and her sister keep an inn where German officers dine. The Kommandant becomes enamoured of a painting of Sophie that hangs in the inn. The modern story is of Liv, who was gifted the painting by her dead husband. When the painting is claimed by descendants of the artist's family as having been looted during war time, L...more

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Nov 18, 2012 Barbara Elsborg rated it 4 of 5 stars

Jojo Moyes is an auto buy for me but when I saw the book was partly set in the first world war - I wavered. Long long ago, I used to like books set in that period but they are inevitably gloomy and I prefer to read happier things. But - auto buy - so I did.
It's a skillfully woven tale of two periods in history - France in WW1 and the UK in the present day. The periods are linked by a painting of a young woman and the significance of that painting to certain characters in the story is what holds...more

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Nov 13, 2012 Helen Hart rated it 4 of 5 stars

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. I'd read other Jojo Moyes titles before and had a mixed reaction - loved some (Silver Bay is one of my all-time favourites), felt ambivalent about others (Ship of Brides) and wasn't impressed by one (The Peacock Emporium). I'm so pleased I was able to read and review this book as it has brought me back to a full appreciation of Jojo's work, and has now led me to buy others for my Kindle (have just started Me Before You and so far it's extremely enjoyable!).

I'm not...more

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Oct 29, 2012 Helena Halme rated it 5 of 5 stars

Jojo Moyes is rapidly becoming one of my favourite writers. I was first introduced to her last year at Shoreditch House Literary salon in London, where Damian Barr spoke highly of her writing. I enjoyed the excerpt Jojo herself read from The Last Letter from Your Lover, and immediately wanted to read the book.

The Girl You Left Behind is the third novel which I’ve read by Moyes, and it, like the others, is well written, well plotted and beautifully constructed.

The Girl You Left Behind is a tale...more Jojo Moyes is rapidly becoming one of my favourite writers. I was first introduced to her last year at Shoreditch House Literary salon in London, where Damian Barr spoke highly of her writing. I enjoyed the excerpt Jojo herself read from The Last Letter from Your Lover, and immediately wanted to read the book.

The Girl You Left Behind is the third novel which I’ve read by Moyes, and it, like the others, is well written, well plotted and beautifully constructed.

The Girl You Left Behind is a tale of two women, living nearly hundred years apart, yet whose lives are strongly connected to one another.

During the first World War, Sophie lives in a small village in Northern France, which is under German occupation. She runs a restaurant with her sister and her three children, trying to stay sane and alive while the war rages on her doorstep, and the German soldiers terrorise the locals and requisition all but the floorboards from the small establishment. Both of the sisters’ husbands have left to fight in the war, and there is scant news of their fates.

Liv Halston is similarly trying to survive, but in present day London. After her famous architect husband’s death, she is struggling both emotionally and financially to carry on living in the glass house he designed.

While both Sophie and Liv are already struggling with their lot, something happens which makes their lives even more precarious and unpredictable. Both women try to do what is right, actions which change everything for the worse.

I loved the way Jojo Moyes played with the stories of these two women, and how she connected the two lives. I don’t want to say too much here, in fear of spoiling the book for new readers, but although in hindsight the link is obvious, I didn’t see it until I was supposed to. I also didn’t expect the ending; I was so wrapped up in both of the women’s stories, that I didn’t have time to speculate – nor the inclination to guess – the conclusion.

I wish I’d found Jojo Moyes a lot sooner, but I must admit to disliking the cover designs of her books. They’re far, far too chicklit for me, whereas Moyes’ writing is so much more literary than chick. On the other hand, having been late to discovering her, I now have a long Jojo Moyes backlist to enjoy.
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Sep 27, 2012 Aine O'Callaghan rated it 4 of 5 stars

The Girl You Left Behind is as much a tribute to victims of war as it is a love story. It follows a painting, which began its journey on the walls of a hotel during occupied WWI France and finishes in a modern day London courtroom- the subject of a highly publicised trial about artwork stolen by soldiers during both WWI and WWII. This painting has a story and it’s not what you think.
While reading, I found myself confidently making judgements about characters only to have these judgements crushe...more

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Sep 27, 2012 Lynn Brown rated it 5 of 5 stars

This book is all about a painting, but don’t let that put you off. The writing in this book is exquisite. I don’t use this word lightly, I dislike wordy, over descriptive writing, where the writing distracts from the story. Not so with this book, this is writing at its best with excellent use of the English language such as “cacophonous daylight”. The characters are very well drawn and realistic, you find yourself caring about what happens to them. I found myself being absorbed by the book, turn...more

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Sep 27, 2012 Kulsuma (sunshine and stardust) rated it 5 of 5 stars

From: http://kayaloves.blogspot.co.uk/

The Girl You Left Behind by Jojo Moyes is an incredible book. I became immersed in the story immediately. Spanning a century, the story is narrated by two women- Sophie and Liv- who are connected through a portrait that they both treasure. The portrait which is entitled The Girl You Left Behind, was drawn by Sophie's husband, the artist Edouard LeFevre. While Edouard is at war, Sophie runs the family hotel Le Coq Rouge with her sister Helene as best she can....more From: http://kayaloves.blogspot.co.uk/

The Girl You Left Behind by Jojo Moyes is an incredible book. I became immersed in the story immediately. Spanning a century, the story is narrated by two women- Sophie and Liv- who are connected through a portrait that they both treasure. The portrait which is entitled The Girl You Left Behind, was drawn by Sophie's husband, the artist Edouard LeFevre. While Edouard is at war, Sophie runs the family hotel Le Coq Rouge with her sister Helene as best she can.

The lack of food and business makes it near impossible to survive in the small, isolated and occupied village of St Peronne. When a new Kommandmant arrives, Sophie sees in her enemy someone who appreciates art. This realisation causes her to hope that she may be reunited with her beloved Edouard once again. But how much is she willing to risk for her hope to turn into reality?

The first part of the book is narrated by Sophie in first person. I loved Sophie's narrative. I felt emotionally close to her and could visualise the emotional and physical hardships she and the community of St Peronne went through. It's not long after the learned Kommandmant takes an interest in her and her painting, that Sophie starts hearing her neighbours and friends turn on her, branding her a collaborator.

Nearly a hundred years later, Liv Hastings mourns the death of her husband David. Living in The Glass House which he built, Liv cherishes The Girl You Left Behind, the portrait gifted to her by David and which is of incredible sentimental value to her. The portrait of Sophie fascinates and comforts her through her most difficult times. But when Liv feels the first stirrings of a new love, it is The Girl You Left Behind which tears them apart.

Liv is shocked to find out that The Girl You Left Behind is the subject of a restitution case. More to the point, her beloved painting will be taken away from her as it was stolen a hundred years earlier. Is the painting rightfully hers? Or does the painting rightfully belong to the LeFevre family? The legal case that follows sets out to determine the answers to these questions. Liv knows that she will do anything to keep the painting and to do that, she will have to find out what became of Sophie.

I loved the way Sophie and Liv's story intertwined as the novel progressed. I couldn't stop turning the pages to find out what would happen next to both women. There were so many twists and turns. In The Girl You Left Behind, nothing is ever as it seems. There was a great cast of characters who enriched the story and remain vivid in my mind after finishing the book; brave Sophie, the inscrutable Kommandant, ever-observant Edith, anxious Helene, angry Aurelien, passionate Edouard, loving, loyal Liv and so many more.

The restitution case was very interesting to read about and I was anxious to learn what the outcome would be. Moreover, I wanted to know what happened to Sophie. Together with Liv, we have a chance to find out. I cannot wait to read more from Jojo Moyes. Her books always include memorable characters, deep storylines and a wealth of emotion. The Girl You Left Behind is a stunning, passionate and moving novel from the author of the brilliant novel, Me Before You. (less)

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Sep 23, 2012 CuteBadger rated it 4 of 5 stars

In 1916 inn-keeper Sophie Lefevre must cope while her artist husband is fighting at the front though German troops requisition everything of value in her village and their officers choose her establishment as the venue for dinner each evening. A painting of Sophie by her husband, displayed in the hotel, catches the eye of the German Kommandant and triggers a series of events which rapidly spirals out of Sophie’s control. In present day London the same painting is emblematic of the love between a...more In 1916 inn-keeper Sophie Lefevre must cope while her artist husband is fighting at the front though German troops requisition everything of value in her village and their officers choose her establishment as the venue for dinner each evening. A painting of Sophie by her husband, displayed in the hotel, catches the eye of the German Kommandant and triggers a series of events which rapidly spirals out of Sophie’s control. In present day London the same painting is emblematic of the love between a young woman, Liv, and her late husband, but the artwork’s history means that her ownership of it comes into question, so Liv must embark on her own emotional battle.

This is the first of Jojo Moyes’ books that I’ve read and I had little knowledge of her work before I started, other than having seen some rave reviews of her recent novel “Me Before You”, so I didn’t really have any expectations one way or the other. I have to say that I loved this novel and devoured in it two sittings, the second one ending in the small hours of the morning as I just had to finish it. When I did finish it I found myself lying awake thinking about it, and I’ve caught myself thinking about the characters on several occasions in the week since I finished it.

I’ve also raved about it so much to friends and family that there’s now a waiting list for my copy and a couple of them have decided they can’t wait and have pre-ordered their own copies ahead of publication on 27 September.

I found it funny and sad and moving – it’s not often that a book makes me cry, but this one did. I also found myself talking to the characters when some of the events of the last half of the book happened, telling them not to do things or trying to warn them of impending events. I realise this makes me sound several sandwiches short of a picnic (or that I “haven’t got all my chairs at home” as a Yorkshire-born friend says), but it’s a sign that I was deeply involved in the book and fully identifying with the characters. For me, doing this is even rarer than crying while reading, which I think underlines how much I enjoyed this book.

I must also point out, however, that all of the above relates much more to the First World War sections of the book than to the modern-day story. I found the latter interesting, particularly when it deals with the recovery of stolen art works, but not nearly as involving as Sophie’s story. I found the characters less warm and a bit less real that their historical counterparts. I adored Sophie and her family and wanted to help them during the terrible times they were living through.

I’ve read a good number of novels set during the First World War, but wasn’t aware of some of the things that went on in this book, so it made me want to go off and read some non-fiction on the subject – always another good sign about a historical novel.

I’m so glad I read this and had the experience of enjoying it so much. The Girl You Left Behind took me completely out of my own life and into Sophie Lefevre’s, and after it was over I felt like I’d lost a good friend. What a fantastic book!
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Sep 13, 2012 Mscrow rated it 5 of 5 stars

The Girl You Left Behind (TGYLB) is the first Jojo Moyes book I've read and having been less than enthralled by many books recently, is the first that has had me gripped and shoehorning time to read into every corner of my day.

Essentially it is the intertwining of the narratives of two women, brought together by the painting. Sophie, a brave hotel owner in northern France during the first world war occupation is the subject of a painting by her husband. It becomes a dangerous bartering tool with...more

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Sep 09, 2012 Marion mccaffery rated it 4 of 5 stars

I was luckily given this book to read before the publishing date so here is my review of The Girl YOu Left Behind by Jojo Moyes.

1916
Sophia is married to Edwaurd a talented painter who in 1912 painted a picture of her which becomes the focus of the story of the Girl you left behind.

From the moment Sophie hid the pig from the germans and actually acted as if she was holding a baby i knew i was in for a cracker of a read. How she brazenly argued with the Kommandant I knew a woman of daring and bra...more

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Sep 08, 2012 Carole Brenchley rated it 4 of 5 stars

Another thought provoking novel from Jojo Moyes, and the third of hers that I have read. I was fortunate enough to be given an advanced copy, and I can honestly say I thoroughly losing myself in it.
“The Girl You Left Behind” is a story about a legacy. A portrait painted by an artist of his beloved wife is left in her keeping while he is made a prisoner of war in France. It is her most precious possession and much admired as it hangs in Le Coq Rouge, the village hotel, bar and restaurant run by o...more

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Sep 06, 2012 Louise Blackah rated it 5 of 5 stars

What do you do when you have a painting that is dear to you; reminding you of your husband and someone wants to take it away? Do you fight the inevitable despite the cost? Or give in gracefully?

Jojo Moyes has the ability to move the reader between the decades, introducing us first to Sophie Lefevre, who is struggling to maintain her small family hotel and family against the demands of the German occupation during WWI. I was totally pulled into the lives of Sophie and the rest of the villagers an...more What do you do when you have a painting that is dear to you; reminding you of your husband and someone wants to take it away? Do you fight the inevitable despite the cost? Or give in gracefully?

Jojo Moyes has the ability to move the reader between the decades, introducing us first to Sophie Lefevre, who is struggling to maintain her small family hotel and family against the demands of the German occupation during WWI. I was totally pulled into the lives of Sophie and the rest of the villagers and despite the German order for Sophie to cater for the German officers each evening, I found that Moyes brought the human side of the Kommandant out, thus ensuring sympathy for the occupying force.

The Kommandant is taken by a picture painted of Sophie by her husband, Edouard, admiring it greatly and we are transported back in time to when Sophie first met Edouard and when the likeness was painted. Such a precious time, and a precious painting that reminded her of her husband. What could Sophie do to try and influence the German to help her husband?

We fast forward to the present and the topical subject of returning items that were stolen, primarily during WWII, by the Germans. Paul works for a company that helps to track down and return the items to the family's descendants. He is tasked with tracking down a painting of a beautiful woman, lost, presumed stolen, during WWI.

Liv is a young widow, having lost her husband suddenly. She takes comfort from his work and also from a painting that he bought for her on their honeymoon. It not only reminds her of him, but to a certain extent of herself. A definitive link to her husband and their short time together, she would never let her go.

How bitter-sweet then, that the fates throw Paul and Liv together at a time when Liv is beginning to think that there may be someone else out there for her. The attraction between the two is palpable, however after a night together he sees the painting that he has been searching for. How can he tell her? How can he not pursue this? Do the descendents really want the painting, or do they want the money it will bring? How can Liv, already in debt afford a court case?

This story pulled me in from the beginning, I walked alongside Sophie as she catered for the Germans with dignity, and I understood her need to try and help her husband despite the cost. I desperately wanted Liv to win the court case, especially as she travelled so far to find out the true story of Sophie and the two women were linked across the miles. Would Sophie win the court case or have to give up The Girl You Left Behind and be bankrupted? Would she ever speak to Paul again and whatever did happen to Sophie Lefevre and her husband? A gripping read, knowledgable and accurate throughout. I shall be reading more of Jojo Moyes.(less)

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Sep 02, 2012 Linda Rollins rated it 4 of 5 stars

In 1916 France, Sophie Lefevre and her neighbours fear every day what will happen next as they live cheek by jowl with the German soldiers occupying their village. Whilst her husband is away at the Front, Sophie tries her best to keep the peace at home.

When Sophie is taken away by the Germans, the portrait of her that her husband had painted ignites a mystery that almost 100 years later a young woman named Liv Halston must solve if she is to keep her home and her dead husband’s memory alive.

Spli...more

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Aug 26, 2012 Alicia rated it 3 of 5 stars

This review has been hidden because it contains spoilers. To view it, click here. Written in dual time narrative, the plot is centred on a painting, the titular 'The Girl You Left Behind', and its journey from 1916 German occupied France, to the hands of a copywriter in present day London.
I am not normally a big fan of dual time narrative books, especially when one of the time frames is modern day. Although I did enjoy this book and found it a relatively entertaining read, there is no doubt that the wartime chapters were far more interesting, in terms of both events and char...more Written in dual time narrative, the plot is centred on a painting, the titular 'The Girl You Left Behind', and its journey from 1916 German occupied France, to the hands of a copywriter in present day London.
I am not normally a big fan of dual time narrative books, especially when one of the time frames is modern day. Although I did enjoy this book and found it a relatively entertaining read, there is no doubt that the wartime chapters were far more interesting, in terms of both events and characters. These characters had far more depth to them, and I cared about what happened to them. I even felt a degree of empathy for the German ‘Kommandant’. The author manages to humanise him, allowing the reader to see him as a human being fighting the same battles with his emotions that we all face, allowing him to be so much more than the usual stereotype of a German soldier, devoid of sympathy or understanding of what the occupation by his forces was doing to the inhabitants of the town. He was actually my favourite character of the book, and I would have liked his story to have been explored further, but then I have always loved an anti-hero.

I did struggle somewhat with the actions of certain characters in terms of believability, one example being the reaction of Sophie’s brother to her being taken, and the way he lets the entire town know of her ‘disgrace’. Given that the stigma of her being associated with the Germans in this way would have likely reflected on the entire family, I found it hard to believe that her own brother would have destroyed her reputation in such a public way.

In terms of the parts of the book set in the present, I found the characters very flat, and felt nothing for them one way or another. I neither liked nor disliked them; rather I felt a detachment from them and didn’t feel particularly involved in their story. I would have preferred that there had been an actual link between Liv and the painting, rather than it just being something her husband had bought and given her. It was mentioned at one point that she looked similar to the girl in the painting, and I think I would have invested more emotionally in her fight to keep the painting had it emerged that she had some genuine (but previously unknown) familial claim to it, rather than the case being based around the technicality of whether or not it had been gifted to the lady her husband purchased it from. It all seemed a bit superficial for me, compared with the more emotional story of Sophie Lefevre.

I have given the book 3/5, but would have given it 3.5 had there been the option. I did enjoy the book despite wishing the author had stuck to the wartime part of the story, and explored that further. As far as I could tell there were no glaring historical inaccuracies. However, I was far more interested in the wartime part of the story, and really genuinely want to know more about the fate of Sophie, her husband and the Kommandant. I was left feeling there were so many unanswered questions.
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Aug 25, 2012 Kate Lovegrove rated it 5 of 5 stars

Gosh, I really Do Not Do romantic fiction, but have to say that I was genuinely gripped by this book. I really enjoyed reading it and found myself inventing 'toilet trips' and 'need to go upstairs to do some tidying' excuses to get away from husband and three children to find five minutes to myself, to go read some more of it!!!

The novel is set in France, 1916, as well as in modern London - the main protagonists are for the French, Sophie Lefevre, trying in 1916 to keep her family together after...more Gosh, I really Do Not Do romantic fiction, but have to say that I was genuinely gripped by this book. I really enjoyed reading it and found myself inventing 'toilet trips' and 'need to go upstairs to do some tidying' excuses to get away from husband and three children to find five minutes to myself, to go read some more of it!!!

The novel is set in France, 1916, as well as in modern London - the main protagonists are for the French, Sophie Lefevre, trying in 1916 to keep her family together after her beloved (artist) husband Edouard is away fighting. And in the English corner and modern London, Liv Halston, a widowed young woman who has received via a circuitous route (which makes up a goodly part of the story), a portrait of Sophie, painted by Edouard before he left. We also meet Paul McCaffertey, a man who works to re-unite stolen art works with their original owners. It isn't too big a leap to guess that Liv and Paul's lives become entwined in a way which contains several really good twists and turns - certainly enough to keep me guessing for most of the novel.

Jumping back to the First World War, (the book does this a lot, but the jumps in time don't distract and in fact, leave you desparate to get back to the 'other' time to find out what's happening) the portrait of Sophie becomes a source of fascination for a German Kommandant who is in charge of the occupation of the village where Sophie lives. It is this obsession with her portrait which forces the hands of several people within the novel and which make up the story.

I absolutely loved this book. I was genuinely caught up in the story and found myself totally immersed in Sophie's story. I must admit that I found her a more sympathetic and complex character than Liv, who was actually quite irritating and teenagerish in her attitude towards Paul on more than one occasion. To develop a heroine who has a habit of 'storming out' after rows is a brave jump to take, but I concede that Moyes does it skilfully. However, I do feel that the book could have done with maybe one or two less twists at the end - once or twice I felt a bit 'oh come on, this is a tad contrived', but again, it is written so well and the story is genuinely SO interesting, that I was prepared to go with it.

What a great read - I just loved it. But I'll not be going back for more 'rom fiction' any time soon, I think I enjoyed the novel so much due to Moyes' skilful writing, rather than hoping that a gutsy heroine gets her man in the end. Still - thoroughly recommended. Fab!

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Aug 25, 2012 Gill Chedgey rated it 5 of 5 stars

JoJo Moyes: The Girl You Left Behind

Often when you approach a writer for the first time it takes a chapter or two or even three or four to ‘get into’ the book. I’ve lost count of the times when I’ve had to really persevere with a book. It’s often been worthwhile and I’ve ultimately enjoyed the read. With this book though I was thoroughly ‘into it’ after a few paragraphs and I felt it boded well.

Although the setting is WW1 it felt like WW2 descriptively although I have no doubt Ms Moyes did her...more JoJo Moyes: The Girl You Left Behind

Often when you approach a writer for the first time it takes a chapter or two or even three or four to ‘get into’ the book. I’ve lost count of the times when I’ve had to really persevere with a book. It’s often been worthwhile and I’ve ultimately enjoyed the read. With this book though I was thoroughly ‘into it’ after a few paragraphs and I felt it boded well.

Although the setting is WW1 it felt like WW2 descriptively although I have no doubt Ms Moyes did her research thoroughly. I couldn’t lose this feeling at all throughout the novel. Maybe I've read too many holocaust books; fiction and non-fiction, for those were the images that intruded into my head. (I am sorry to say also I did keep getting mental pictures of the TV sitcom ‘Allo ‘Allo during some of the café sequences!) However that didn’t detract at all from my enjoyment of the tale.

We seem obsessed today with pigeon holing everything. So I pondered exactly what genre this book would fit into. Historic fiction? In part. My knowledge of WW1 France was certainly enhanced but the modern day sequences deny it a place wholly there. Romance? Certainly. The girl gets the guy in both timeframes, that was almost contrived, yet in a romantic novel, isn’t that what you want, what you yearn for? Chick lit? It dips its feet in there for sure but never totally stays there. Courtroom Drama? Yes to that too. And I think that’s why I liked as much as I did, purely because it can’t conveniently be genre stamped.

The characterisations were predictable for me in that it felt as if they were people I’d read about before but with different names and circumstances with slightly different details. But that isn’t intended as negative criticism, I quite enjoyed that. Similarly the narrative felt like several stories I’d read before fused into one. But I enjoyed the company of both Sophie and Liv and wished there was a bit more of Mo.

I think the book was well written overall. There is a danger that using more than one time frame can become confusing but I felt it worked seamlessly here. This book isn’t unique, it isn’t ground breaking, and I doubt it will win awards but it is a thoroughly enjoyable story to lose you in and immerse yourself in the tangled lives of others and end up with a satisfactory conclusion.

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Aug 20, 2012 Lucinda rated it 5 of 5 stars

something you will never forget…

I was left drained of all emotion after reading Jojo Moyles new compelling novel, which touches your very soul with its depth of feeling and thought-provoking poignancy. Centered on a painting that is such a treasured and personal object, being the link that connects the lives of those individuals that are entwined together through love, loss and relationships. Set in 1916 in a small French town called St Peronne you are instantly transported back in time to the F...more something you will never forget…

I was left drained of all emotion after reading Jojo Moyles new compelling novel, which touches your very soul with its depth of feeling and thought-provoking poignancy. Centered on a painting that is such a treasured and personal object, being the link that connects the lives of those individuals that are entwined together through love, loss and relationships. Set in 1916 in a small French town called St Peronne you are instantly transported back in time to the First World War, where Germans parade the cobbled streets and the threat of attack lingers. Both owner of this painting and main character one sees the world through the eyes of Sophie Lefevre that is realistic, heartfelt and authentic to the core. Part two moves forwards in time a hundred years into the future in modern day London where Liz Halston has become the new owner of the painting, connecting back to the past to Sophie who is very much still a part of the present. The lives of these two remarkable individuals begin to merge together weaving an intricate labyrinth of entwining links that relate to one another, that will shock and surprise you until the book’s conclusion. This painting of Sophie stands-out on the walls of the past and the present day, as it was painted with love and given with love in both instances. The mixture of narration, hand written letters and diary entries make this story even more realistic and absorbing whilst capturing your imagination in such a way as to bring these people to life before your very eyes. Ending on such a dramatic and thrilling climax that was quite unexpected, I was left wanting to know more about this intriguing tale and how it was linked to a most significant work of art. Similarly to The Girl with a Pearl Earring by Tracy Chevalier this romantic saga connects to a portrait that holds the key to all those people who come across it, with such clever imagination and creativity as to make it all so believable.

This book has left a large hole in my heart, being something that I shall now treasure as an outstanding and origional read that is so distinctive and unique. This is a timeless tale that’s absorbing and beautifully written, which I confidently predict becoming this year’s bestseller, by an author who has surpassed all expectations by producing something on a par with the highly acclaimed Birdsong by Sebastian Faulks. A powerful plot that is about love, loss, aceptance and letting go which evokes the time period perfectly, that I garuntee you will find very hard to put down. Glimpsing deep within your soul it opens a window into your heart, seeking out ones inmost thoughts and desires that is truth-drawing and touching. The dual narratives and time differences show the writers versitility to construct a clever story where the two connecting parts compliment one another so well.

I have never felt so deeply moved by a book before that touched me in a way that was so personal, where you feel as if the author is reaching out to you intimately and in which you connect to the story in your own way that effects you. I had goosbumps and chills running down my spine as I sat tense on the edge of my seat in suspence throughout, reading quicker whilst loosing myself within the pages. This novel has to be one of the best fictional works that I have ever read, blowing me away as I never thought anything would hence I cannot commend Jojo Moyles enough as she really has put herself, her passion and skill, blood sweat and tears into these pages that are a delight to read. Etched within my memory now forever I shall not hesitate in placing this volume at the very top of the bookshelf, alongside other literature which has deservedly received great critical acclaim and that has stood the test of time.

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Aug 20, 2012 Carol Anne rated it 4 of 5 stars

I'll admit it - on reading the title I was sceptical about this book. Even reading the synopsis didn't really help. I felt like it was going to be vapid and maybe even fluffy. I am glad that I didn't let my prejudice get in the way, though, because from the minute I started this book I realised that it was far more than the cover would lead you to believe. The characters are strong and well rounded, the story is engaging and the increase in pace towards the end is such fun. The story is much dar...more

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Aug 19, 2012 Hadenmaiden rated it 5 of 5 stars

I was fortunate to receive a copy of Jojo Moyes new book from Realreaders, and have to say what a riveting read it was. I hadn’t read Ms Moyes previous books, but will certainly look for them now. The synopsis on the back cover describes it as ‘the story of two young women separated by a century , united in their determination to fight for what they love most – whatever the cost’
In some ways it is reminiscent of Sebastian Faulks Birdsong, in that it links lives of people in the Great War to tho...more

I was fortunate to receive a copy of Jojo Moyes new book from Realreaders, and have to say what a riveting read it was. I hadn’t read Ms Moyes previous books, but will certainly look for them now. The synopsis on the back cover describes it as ‘the story of two young women separated by a century , united in their determination to fight for what they love most – whatever the cost’
In some ways it is reminiscent of Sebastian Faulks Birdsong, in that it links lives of people in the Great War to those of our contemporaries. It is however, a great read in its own right, and I found the reading of it thoroughly absorbing. The first part of the book is set entirely in France in the midst of the Great War; giving a background to the story whilst introducing the reader to the characters who shape the second part of the book. Part one on its own would have been a good read – really involving the reader in some of the intricacies of life in a village occupied by German troops in 1916. When you progress onto the second part of the book, it soon becomes clear that no detail from part one has been wasted words; everything you read is relevant, and has some impact on how the story develops.
It’s difficult to say a lot about how the tale progresses without spoiling the developing story and revealing some of the storyline that the readers deserve to discover for themselves. Suffice it to say that it’s a superbly written book, and has more twists and turns than the proverbial ‘twisty thing’. There is a strong storyline, supported by characters who are believably real and likeable. Small details are never overlooked – I particularly like the references to Fran and her continued presence at the periphery of Liv’s life, and the delightfully unconventional Mo who has her own small part to play.
I heartily recommend this book as a great read – it’s got bits of all sorts in there, will keep you interested to the last page, and is entirely believeable. Many thanks to the people at Realreaders for allowing me a sneak preview.
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Aug 18, 2012 Kate rated it 2 of 5 stars

This is a tale about two women and a portrait that they both cherish.

The first owner Sophie is the wife of the artist, and the subject of the portrait. The opening chapters deal with her struggles to survive the privations of life in occupied France during WW1. A new German officer is put in charge of her village, and he takes an unsettling interest in both Sophie and her portrait. Her desire to be reunited with her husband (who is believed to be a POW), leads her into a dangerous relationship w...more

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Aug 17, 2012 Misslebowski rated it 4 of 5 stars

Jojo Moyes weaves together two main stories here. We first meet Sophie Lefevre, who is trapped in the hell of 1916 France. Desperately worried about her beloved artist husband, Edouard, who had to go and fight at the Front, Sophie must protect her family by running their hotel and catering for the hated German soldiers who occupy her town. A new Kommandant is bewitched by the portrait of Sophie which hangs within the hotel, painted during happier times by Edouard, and gradually feelings and even...more

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Aug 13, 2012 Jane rated it 3 of 5 stars

First time I've read Jojo Moyes, so I didn't know what to expect. Having just completed a Kate Atkinson-athon, the bar was high.

The Girl You Left Behind is all about loss and letting go. It's a bit of a harsher, more bitter verson of Vercors' Le Silence de la Mer, with Captain Corelli's Mandolin, mixed up with a bit of Michael Frayn's Headlong.

Part one of the novel opens in Northern France, under German occupation in the First World War. Sophie LeFèvre and her sister Hélène are running a hôtel i...more

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