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Until That Distant Day #1
Until That Distant Day
When revolution reigns, can love survive?
A vibrant, activist widow living in Paris during the early days of France’s new Republic can find limitless opportunities for success. So says Pascoe, Colette’s favorite brother and lifelong advisor, who urges her to quit her menial employment as housekeeper to prominent legislator Doctor Hilliard. However, haunted by an abusive marriage, her baby’s tragic death, and a recent disastrous romance, Colette dreads making more poor choices. She clings to her current position, where at least she finds purpose and respect.
Suddenly, Colette finds herself at odds with Pascoe and struggling to unite her fractured family against the lure of revolution. Charged with protecting Doctor Hilliard’s headstrong daughter and desperately afraid of losing one of her beloved brothers, Colette doesn’t know where to turn or whom to trust as the bloodshed creeps ever closer to home.
Until that distant day when peace returns to France, can she find the strength to defend her loved ones . . . even from one another?
A vibrant, activist widow living in Paris during the early days of France’s new Republic can find limitless opportunities for success. So says Pascoe, Colette’s favorite brother and lifelong advisor, who urges her to quit her menial employment as housekeeper to prominent legislator Doctor Hilliard. However, haunted by an abusive marriage, her baby’s tragic death, and a recent disastrous romance, Colette dreads making more poor choices. She clings to her current position, where at least she finds purpose and respect.
Suddenly, Colette finds herself at odds with Pascoe and struggling to unite her fractured family against the lure of revolution. Charged with protecting Doctor Hilliard’s headstrong daughter and desperately afraid of losing one of her beloved brothers, Colette doesn’t know where to turn or whom to trust as the bloodshed creeps ever closer to home.
Until that distant day when peace returns to France, can she find the strength to defend her loved ones . . . even from one another?
354 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2014
8 people are currently reading
736 people want to read
About the author
Jill Stengl
31 books43 followersJill Stengl is the author of numerous romance novels including Inspirational Reader’s Choice Award- and Carol Award-winning Faithful Traitor, and the bestselling novella, Fresh Highland Heir. She lives with her husband in the beautiful Northwoods of Wisconsin, where she enjoys her three cats, teaching a high school English Lit. class, playing keyboard for her church family, and sipping coffee on the deck as she brainstorms for her next novel.
Jill is is the mother to Anne Elisabeth Stengl
Jill is is the mother to Anne Elisabeth Stengl
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
April 26, 2014
I'm not much of a historical fiction reader, but when I started this book, I was hooked! 'Until That Distant Day' took me on an adventure during the French Revolution that I will not soon forget! I now see why the amazing Jill Stengl is an award-winning author. Truly, the way she weaves fiction throughout history is amazing, addictive, and terribly fun to read! Now I want to read more of her books
May 16, 2015
I just had the opportunity to read the final draft of this manuscript . . . and let me tell you, it is fantastic! Sometimes sad, sometimes frightening, full of suspense. A great cast of dynamic characters caught up in family drama, political intrigue, and a surprising romance. This story made me laugh out loud and it also made me cry. The heroine's authentic and descriptive narrative voice painted vivid pictures in my head--I could see, hear, and even smell Paris of 1792.
And, along with Colette, I felt the lure of revolution, the longing of the people for a better life. I felt her heartache as she watched inhumanity and terror overcome all the good such a revolution might have created. I felt Colette's need for grace and love . . . and I admired her tremendous courage as she sought to protect her beloved brothers, often from their own foolish purposes.
It's a great story. A beautiful story. I can hardly wait for the rest of you to read it.
And, along with Colette, I felt the lure of revolution, the longing of the people for a better life. I felt her heartache as she watched inhumanity and terror overcome all the good such a revolution might have created. I felt Colette's need for grace and love . . . and I admired her tremendous courage as she sought to protect her beloved brothers, often from their own foolish purposes.
It's a great story. A beautiful story. I can hardly wait for the rest of you to read it.
June 29, 2016
After a long absence, Jill Stengl returns to Authorhood, and she heralds a tale of the French Revolution with a clear, unique voice and excellent plotting that transports us straight into the era. It is a journey of a woman’s search for good in a time where all good things seemed to have been rejected. And it was a journey for me as well, and my opinion of the tale progressed with the page.
I’ll admit, the first third of the book was not amazing for me. Certainly, the writing was excellent and she dropped me right into the world without error. That was part of the problem. Um…1792 Paris. Who would want to be there??? Okay, maybe there are some people, but I wasn’t one of them. Sure, I’d read and enjoyed another French Revolution novel, The Tale of Two Cites, but it was different. Until That Distant Day plants you living in this city, amongst the crowds, along the streets, inside the families. And it didn’t take long before I concluded that almost all men there were disgusting, faith was nearly non-existent, and man-kind was basically selfish. A pretty accurate truth, I guess.
But I also had a problem of not liking many of the characters at first. Two out of three of our heroine’s brothers I despised, one a charming cad, the other a hot-headed brat. The one brother I did like (a quiet, religious young man) didn’t show up nearly enough for the first third. There was a mysterious doctor and his cold daughter who I thought might be likeable, but there were too many mysteries about them to be sure. As for our main character, Colette, she’s a tough, experienced woman with a scandalized past and a determination to do things right from now on. I liked her…but I didn’t quite connect with her…at first. And what about the romantic interest? I knew there was one in here somewhere, but there didn’t seem to be a decent man around! I wasn’t expecting Monsieur Perfection, but a good man at least…
As I went into the second third, Colette became as disgusted and disillusioned with her culture as I was, and we suddenly became friends. And I was inspired as she started seeking out God, taking her stand, and determining to love no matter what. The brother who I did like came up as a main character! More was revealed about the Doctor and his daughter. A sweet side romance began. And the man for Colette? Oh…well, it turns out he’d been under my nose the entire time. Very sneaky, Mrs. Stengl, very sneaky. ;)
And then WOOMPH!!!
(Guess what sort of events started.)
The last third of the book had me absolutely glued to the page, desperate for the characters who had indeed become my friends, delighting in their triumphs, mourning with their sorrows. Mrs. Stengl is a master story-teller; she knows just what strings to pull. I was sitting there, author-mode, thinking, “If this was my story, I’d do this—” The next moment I’d switched to reader-mode, gasping, “AUGH! SHE DID IT!!! NOoo, please let it turn out all right!” There were also twists I never saw coming. And I even found some forgiveness in me for the person I’d rounded up as the despicable villain. Around here, there was a change in character that I found a bit convenient, but hey, who am I to judge the workings of a tormented soul? It worked out great for the story, anyway. These were people…real…raw…imperfect, selfish, proud, foolish. But people…beloved of God.
The suspense, the humor, the joy, the sorrow, the love…it all wound up into a triumphant conclusion that left me with one available conclusion about the book.
I loved it.
Violence: French Revolution, folks. Blood. Happily, Jill Stengl really doesn’t get into gory descriptions. There is a mention of a head on a pike, but most of the really awful violence stayed off page.
Sexual: Paris. The culture is morally loose. Our heroine has had two affairs in her past (she’s not proud of them). There are two young women with child outside of marriage. Men and women are flirty. One of Colette’s brothers actually encourages her to take up the job of a mistress. But there was really no scenes or descriptions to provoke any problems for the reader. You know the bad is there, but it’s not bad for you. And the romance is so sweet and clean! Our heroine’s romance is unromantic in the most romantic way possible! Did that not make any sense? Read the book to understand.
Language: Plenty of profanity is said to be said, but we never see it on the page.
If you are interested in the French Revolution era, reading this book is not merely a suggestion, but an order! If you enjoy historical novels, you should definitely read this. And even if historical novels aren’t your genre of choice, you should still give this a try if you like good writing and real characters.
It’s a difficult tale, an emotional tale, where all the story threads and characters are woven together with superb mastery and heart. Bravo, Mrs. Stengl!
I’ll admit, the first third of the book was not amazing for me. Certainly, the writing was excellent and she dropped me right into the world without error. That was part of the problem. Um…1792 Paris. Who would want to be there??? Okay, maybe there are some people, but I wasn’t one of them. Sure, I’d read and enjoyed another French Revolution novel, The Tale of Two Cites, but it was different. Until That Distant Day plants you living in this city, amongst the crowds, along the streets, inside the families. And it didn’t take long before I concluded that almost all men there were disgusting, faith was nearly non-existent, and man-kind was basically selfish. A pretty accurate truth, I guess.
But I also had a problem of not liking many of the characters at first. Two out of three of our heroine’s brothers I despised, one a charming cad, the other a hot-headed brat. The one brother I did like (a quiet, religious young man) didn’t show up nearly enough for the first third. There was a mysterious doctor and his cold daughter who I thought might be likeable, but there were too many mysteries about them to be sure. As for our main character, Colette, she’s a tough, experienced woman with a scandalized past and a determination to do things right from now on. I liked her…but I didn’t quite connect with her…at first. And what about the romantic interest? I knew there was one in here somewhere, but there didn’t seem to be a decent man around! I wasn’t expecting Monsieur Perfection, but a good man at least…
As I went into the second third, Colette became as disgusted and disillusioned with her culture as I was, and we suddenly became friends. And I was inspired as she started seeking out God, taking her stand, and determining to love no matter what. The brother who I did like came up as a main character! More was revealed about the Doctor and his daughter. A sweet side romance began. And the man for Colette? Oh…well, it turns out he’d been under my nose the entire time. Very sneaky, Mrs. Stengl, very sneaky. ;)
And then WOOMPH!!!
(Guess what sort of events started.)
The last third of the book had me absolutely glued to the page, desperate for the characters who had indeed become my friends, delighting in their triumphs, mourning with their sorrows. Mrs. Stengl is a master story-teller; she knows just what strings to pull. I was sitting there, author-mode, thinking, “If this was my story, I’d do this—” The next moment I’d switched to reader-mode, gasping, “AUGH! SHE DID IT!!! NOoo, please let it turn out all right!” There were also twists I never saw coming. And I even found some forgiveness in me for the person I’d rounded up as the despicable villain. Around here, there was a change in character that I found a bit convenient, but hey, who am I to judge the workings of a tormented soul? It worked out great for the story, anyway. These were people…real…raw…imperfect, selfish, proud, foolish. But people…beloved of God.
The suspense, the humor, the joy, the sorrow, the love…it all wound up into a triumphant conclusion that left me with one available conclusion about the book.
I loved it.
Violence: French Revolution, folks. Blood. Happily, Jill Stengl really doesn’t get into gory descriptions. There is a mention of a head on a pike, but most of the really awful violence stayed off page.
Sexual: Paris. The culture is morally loose. Our heroine has had two affairs in her past (she’s not proud of them). There are two young women with child outside of marriage. Men and women are flirty. One of Colette’s brothers actually encourages her to take up the job of a mistress. But there was really no scenes or descriptions to provoke any problems for the reader. You know the bad is there, but it’s not bad for you. And the romance is so sweet and clean! Our heroine’s romance is unromantic in the most romantic way possible! Did that not make any sense? Read the book to understand.
Language: Plenty of profanity is said to be said, but we never see it on the page.
If you are interested in the French Revolution era, reading this book is not merely a suggestion, but an order! If you enjoy historical novels, you should definitely read this. And even if historical novels aren’t your genre of choice, you should still give this a try if you like good writing and real characters.
It’s a difficult tale, an emotional tale, where all the story threads and characters are woven together with superb mastery and heart. Bravo, Mrs. Stengl!
April 16, 2014
The year is 1792. From the noblest courts to the lowest, most desperate slums, Paris hangs poised. It whispers resolution or revolution?
Madame Colette deMare, among Paris's lower class, knows the answer to this question implicitly. She will stand by the side of her brother Pascoe, an influential leader who calls for change. But as Colette finds her life increasingly entangled with those of Doctor Hilliard, a wealthy politician, and his family, she no longer finds herself so sure. When the long-awaited change finally breaks out, the violence and recklessness of it shocks her. With her loved ones on increasingly distant sides of the conflict, Colette tries desperately to protect them-- and begins to fear that she cannot.
I loved this book. Really. But so as not to leave a bad taste in your mouth at the end of the review, I shall say what I didn't like first, which is really only two things.
When an author seeks to make an audience love/loathe a character, they walk a very fine line. As Colette finds herself distanced from her increasingly violent and careless brother, I erred on the side of loathing the charismatic Pascoe. Although he came full circle back into my good books by the end, I spent the majority of this novel wishing Colette would make good on her threats to shoot him with her husband's fowling piece.
(The same can be said for Colette's other brother, Claude, only I started off disliking him and finished that way, too. Although a shred of pity colors my feelings for him.)
My second complaint is that, although the cast of this book is not small, it covers only one social class: the poor. I understand that Doctor Hilliard-- and, indeed, Colette and Pascoe-- are intended to be comparatively wealthy, with new clothes, education, and a steady supply of food, but I would have liked to have a Victor Hugo-esque look at the poor (or even the rich, for that matter) to give more of a contrast.
Now that the complaints are out of the way, let me tell you why you should read this novel.
Colette is undoubtedly the greatest part of this book. Her presence of mind and force of will are so great that it is a bit shocking to think her name rhymes with Cosette. She spends the majority of the book running around, getting things done, doing good, and threatening people with her fowling piece. She puts Lucie and Cosette to shame for French Revolution heroines.
But Colette has a vulnerable side as well. The oldest of fifteen children, with her parents far away in America, her life revolves around her brothers. It pains her to realize they have grown and no longer cherish her as they once did. Her hurt at their lack of respect rings true.
Most of the romance in Until that Distant Day takes place before the book begins. If you like romance, then sorry; you'll just have to enjoy the character growth instead. But for me, this book was perfect because it had a love story I was not forced to witness firsthand.
The characters grew massively in this book, particularly Colette, Pascoe, and Leonie. So much so that upon finishing I returned to read the first chapter and said, "Oh. Um. Hello again."
Was this book good? Yes! Should you read it? Yes!! Is it going on my favorites shelf, and will I order a copy? Yes!!!
Did I give it four stars?
Well. Yes.
I loved this book. I really did. If I could only pick out two things that I didn't like, then congratulations, Mrs. Stengl, you have written a fantastic book. But I'm reviewing it. I received an ARC copy, and I have to be hard on it-- harder than if I was solely reading it to enjoy a wonderful book.
(Note: There's a distinct possibility that later down the road I'll say, "Oh, forget it" and change my rating to five stars. If you are reading this and that seems to be the case, then you should still read this book!!!)
To reiterate: Until that Distant Day has characters both lovable and loathsome, I adored it, and it will keep you on the edge of your seat until you finish it. So go ahead. Pick up the book. : )
Madame Colette deMare, among Paris's lower class, knows the answer to this question implicitly. She will stand by the side of her brother Pascoe, an influential leader who calls for change. But as Colette finds her life increasingly entangled with those of Doctor Hilliard, a wealthy politician, and his family, she no longer finds herself so sure. When the long-awaited change finally breaks out, the violence and recklessness of it shocks her. With her loved ones on increasingly distant sides of the conflict, Colette tries desperately to protect them-- and begins to fear that she cannot.
I loved this book. Really. But so as not to leave a bad taste in your mouth at the end of the review, I shall say what I didn't like first, which is really only two things.
When an author seeks to make an audience love/loathe a character, they walk a very fine line. As Colette finds herself distanced from her increasingly violent and careless brother, I erred on the side of loathing the charismatic Pascoe. Although he came full circle back into my good books by the end, I spent the majority of this novel wishing Colette would make good on her threats to shoot him with her husband's fowling piece.
(The same can be said for Colette's other brother, Claude, only I started off disliking him and finished that way, too. Although a shred of pity colors my feelings for him.)
My second complaint is that, although the cast of this book is not small, it covers only one social class: the poor. I understand that Doctor Hilliard-- and, indeed, Colette and Pascoe-- are intended to be comparatively wealthy, with new clothes, education, and a steady supply of food, but I would have liked to have a Victor Hugo-esque look at the poor (or even the rich, for that matter) to give more of a contrast.
Now that the complaints are out of the way, let me tell you why you should read this novel.
Colette is undoubtedly the greatest part of this book. Her presence of mind and force of will are so great that it is a bit shocking to think her name rhymes with Cosette. She spends the majority of the book running around, getting things done, doing good, and threatening people with her fowling piece. She puts Lucie and Cosette to shame for French Revolution heroines.
But Colette has a vulnerable side as well. The oldest of fifteen children, with her parents far away in America, her life revolves around her brothers. It pains her to realize they have grown and no longer cherish her as they once did. Her hurt at their lack of respect rings true.
Most of the romance in Until that Distant Day takes place before the book begins. If you like romance, then sorry; you'll just have to enjoy the character growth instead. But for me, this book was perfect because it had a love story I was not forced to witness firsthand.
The characters grew massively in this book, particularly Colette, Pascoe, and Leonie. So much so that upon finishing I returned to read the first chapter and said, "Oh. Um. Hello again."
Was this book good? Yes! Should you read it? Yes!! Is it going on my favorites shelf, and will I order a copy? Yes!!!
Did I give it four stars?
Well. Yes.
I loved this book. I really did. If I could only pick out two things that I didn't like, then congratulations, Mrs. Stengl, you have written a fantastic book. But I'm reviewing it. I received an ARC copy, and I have to be hard on it-- harder than if I was solely reading it to enjoy a wonderful book.
(Note: There's a distinct possibility that later down the road I'll say, "Oh, forget it" and change my rating to five stars. If you are reading this and that seems to be the case, then you should still read this book!!!)
To reiterate: Until that Distant Day has characters both lovable and loathsome, I adored it, and it will keep you on the edge of your seat until you finish it. So go ahead. Pick up the book. : )
November 24, 2015
Seeing the gorgeous cover and realizing it was written by Anne Elisabeth Stengl's mom, Jill Stengl, I was quite excited to read Until That Distant Day. Happily, I was not disappointed in this fascinating historical set in the country of France (French history always interests me).
Centered on a young widow and her brothers during the perilous French Revolution, we journey along with Colette as she struggles to find where her loyalties lie... and what is righteous and true in the violent setting of rebellion. Also, love whispers, and secrets are unveiled. In the end, who will survive? And will Colette and Pascoe keep their close relationship or be torn apart by politics?
All in all, a vivid historical tale. Raw, real, and deep, Until That Distant Day explored and revealed a devastating and changing time in France's history. From the destitute to the more wealthy, we see this precarious world through Colette's eyes. It could make you think of the movie Les Miserables (which I will clarify that I had some issues with the latest version, but it still was an intriguing story). Love the French words scattered throughout this book! And the subtle romance was just... grand. I had an inkling pretty early on that they might end up together, but just wasn't sure. It really made it sweet in the end though! Lovely characters, Colette and her man. I just really felt Colette sometimes... felt her pain, her fear, her confusion, her longing, her guilt. There were times I connected, and that's really great when you can do that with a character! :)
Pascoe got on my nerves a bit. And also the young mother that Colette helps out... she was hard to like at times. But they certainly added a lot to the story, and you saw their outlook of life and came to understand them more in the end. The doctor and his daughter were splendid characters. And I really enjoyed Colette's brother, Etienne. A really great array of characters overall. And each with such unique, clear personalities. Wonderful job, Mrs. Stengl!
I found the overall story in Until That Distant Day epic and deserving of five stars. ...But, it was a bit hard to read some of the scenes. It was a brutal time in history. Lots of fear. Much unneeded, insensitive violence. The mass slaughtering scene in particular was awful. But I do appreciate the history. Just a heads-up that there's some slightly graphic violence in this book... caution to younger readers!
But really an amazing, unusual novel in the end. I was surprised by... I don't know... just plain surprised. It was different. In a really good way, :) I like to find novels that have the kind of depth and feeling that Until That Distant Day had. Interested in big historical events? The history of France? A story of redemption, pain, pasts, and ultimately, joy? Give this one a try! I look forward to reading more by Jill Stengl.
Centered on a young widow and her brothers during the perilous French Revolution, we journey along with Colette as she struggles to find where her loyalties lie... and what is righteous and true in the violent setting of rebellion. Also, love whispers, and secrets are unveiled. In the end, who will survive? And will Colette and Pascoe keep their close relationship or be torn apart by politics?
All in all, a vivid historical tale. Raw, real, and deep, Until That Distant Day explored and revealed a devastating and changing time in France's history. From the destitute to the more wealthy, we see this precarious world through Colette's eyes. It could make you think of the movie Les Miserables (which I will clarify that I had some issues with the latest version, but it still was an intriguing story). Love the French words scattered throughout this book! And the subtle romance was just... grand. I had an inkling pretty early on that they might end up together, but just wasn't sure. It really made it sweet in the end though! Lovely characters, Colette and her man. I just really felt Colette sometimes... felt her pain, her fear, her confusion, her longing, her guilt. There were times I connected, and that's really great when you can do that with a character! :)
Pascoe got on my nerves a bit. And also the young mother that Colette helps out... she was hard to like at times. But they certainly added a lot to the story, and you saw their outlook of life and came to understand them more in the end. The doctor and his daughter were splendid characters. And I really enjoyed Colette's brother, Etienne. A really great array of characters overall. And each with such unique, clear personalities. Wonderful job, Mrs. Stengl!
I found the overall story in Until That Distant Day epic and deserving of five stars. ...But, it was a bit hard to read some of the scenes. It was a brutal time in history. Lots of fear. Much unneeded, insensitive violence. The mass slaughtering scene in particular was awful. But I do appreciate the history. Just a heads-up that there's some slightly graphic violence in this book... caution to younger readers!
But really an amazing, unusual novel in the end. I was surprised by... I don't know... just plain surprised. It was different. In a really good way, :) I like to find novels that have the kind of depth and feeling that Until That Distant Day had. Interested in big historical events? The history of France? A story of redemption, pain, pasts, and ultimately, joy? Give this one a try! I look forward to reading more by Jill Stengl.
April 10, 2014
In her latest novel, Mrs. Stengl creates a magnificent portrait of the early French Republic, weaving her delightful cast of characters both in amid the fray and out into the daily life of Paris. What a delight! I have not found a well-researched and yet compelling historical romance for many years, but this is a breath of fresh air to a genre too often cliched. The strength of the character relationships (brother-sister, father-daughter) gives an honesty to the historical action and a resonance to the realities of all kinds of love. Mrs. Stengl raises the historical romance to a new height in this fantastic tale!
May 14, 2014
This is a fantastic book! It was a slow read for me because there was a lot to digest and I wanted to make sure I knew who everyone was. I enjoyed reading about all the relationships Colette had in this book. She lives with her brothers, Pascoe, Etienne and Claude. Etienne was the easiest brother for me to like, but Pascoe and Claude had their charming moments as well. I also enjoyed her relationship with Dr. Hilliard and his daughter, Leonie. Colette is the doctor's housekeeper and has decisions to make as two of her brothers and the doctor are on different sides of the uprising. Her relationship with her brother Pascoe is particularly complex. I disliked him through most of the book, but at the end, my opinion toward him softened and I was able to see more of what she saw in him.
There are others that Colette helps throughout the story and I loved her compassion for each of them, no matter what their circumstances were. She showed that she loved and cared about each of them. Colette has her flaws and has made some mistakes in her past, but she is determined to live a better life and is very likable.
There is some romance, but not much as the revolution is the major focus of this story. This does not seem like an easy topic to take on and I thought Mrs. Stengl did a fantastic job! I felt like I was there and felt their victories and sorrows with them. There was a lot going on towards the end and I thought the ending was perfect! I haven't read any of Mrs. Stengl's other books, but was surprised to learn that she's used to writing only romance and this is the first time she's taken on a book like this. I hope she writes more!
If you enjoy relationship oriented historical fiction, then this is the book for you! This book is clean but since it deals with revolution, there are some violent parts (nothing too descriptive, though).
I received a copy of this book to review. My opinion is 100% my own.
Mel's Shelves
There are others that Colette helps throughout the story and I loved her compassion for each of them, no matter what their circumstances were. She showed that she loved and cared about each of them. Colette has her flaws and has made some mistakes in her past, but she is determined to live a better life and is very likable.
There is some romance, but not much as the revolution is the major focus of this story. This does not seem like an easy topic to take on and I thought Mrs. Stengl did a fantastic job! I felt like I was there and felt their victories and sorrows with them. There was a lot going on towards the end and I thought the ending was perfect! I haven't read any of Mrs. Stengl's other books, but was surprised to learn that she's used to writing only romance and this is the first time she's taken on a book like this. I hope she writes more!
If you enjoy relationship oriented historical fiction, then this is the book for you! This book is clean but since it deals with revolution, there are some violent parts (nothing too descriptive, though).
I received a copy of this book to review. My opinion is 100% my own.
Mel's Shelves
March 18, 2017
Oh my, I loved this story--the story with the perfect title that called out to me, "Read me, read me!" So I did, and it beautifully reflects a major theme in the story. The main character is so very sweet and caring in a big sister, motherly type of way. It feels like I'm talking with her in her garden, or walking quickly with her through the streets of Paris as she shares her love and concern for those around her, especially her brothers. It's all so very personal and real...particularly the way the worst of the revolution is almost sneaking up on many of the characters. Mrs. Stengl puts hearts in and faces on the masses of the French Revolution--people with dreams of a better life--people whose failures produce tragic consequences--people desperately in need of love, hope, and forgiveness--and people who need to grant the same to others. Powerful, tragic, hopeful, beautiful...I will read it again and again. (A perfect book for high school and above to read while studying the French Revolution.)
January 2, 2015
A really lovely, moving story of a family pulled various ways by revolution. The only thing that didn't work for me was the heroine's relationship with her brother Pascoe; I had to take it on trust that she saw something lovable in him. Fortunately the book is positively dense with complex, poignant relationships, enough to make up for the one that doesn't quite work.
I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thanks, Mrs Stengl :)
I thoroughly enjoyed it. Thanks, Mrs Stengl :)
April 22, 2015
A while ago, Anne Elisabeth Stengl emailed me about reading and reviewing an e-copy of her mother's latest novel, and I immediately jumped at the opportunity - I love Anne Elisabeth's novels so I placed my bets her mother must be pretty good too, I am a lover of historical fiction in general, and a novel set during the French Revolution sounded deliciously fascinating. (YES PLEASE!) Howweeverrr... I confess that I was hard-pressed to find time to read the PDF review copy once I received it, due mostly to the awkwardness of reading a rich historical French Revolution saga of a sprawling 400 page-length on the tiny screen of my phone (in tricksy pdf format); I procrastinated, sweated and left it to the last minute. Then last week, in a pinch of panic, I pulled up my laptop, curled up into a ball by the living-room couch, opened the pdf, and decided to plow through it. . . no matter the cost! By early Wednesday morning, having stayed up past midnight the night before to finish it, my eyes remained breathlessly glued to the screen till that last page!
My thought-musings for this book comes quite overdue, but the saying is that late is better than never. For summoning up my thoughts, I find myself in a bit of a quandary, for I both loved this book fiercely for its uniqueness and realistic story-telling, while at the same time I also felt that there was a lot more potential and hinted possibilities (especially character-wise) for this book than was explored by the author. In the end, I probably enjoyed this novel far more than I anticipated, and I definitely got thrilled at every new twist and turn of Stengl's pen - she is truly a wonderful storyteller, with a deft hand at weaving characters and plots that seem unrelated, drawing their threads together suddenly and delightfully to a climax; quite a Dickens trademark! And the theme of fallen humanity during such an immoral era, and God's grace, His peace given to His children in a dark, troubled world, rang beautifully throughout the story's pages.
Until That Distant Day starts off in a slightly un-characteristic fashion to the average historical novel, in the fact that Colette, the main character, talks to us through the story, telling us the things that happen and her thoughts in -what I felt- was the emotions of hindsight. It was very unique way, and I got interested in Colette's point-of-view and her quiet but strong and thoughtful interests quite from the start. She says, in opening, 'I was born believing that the world was unfair and I was the person to set it right.' That line pretty accurately sums up her disillusioned view of her city, the people she lives among, and her own stained past, while still caring about things, the people and places she knows, and desiring to better and change them - to help others and in so doing, redeem and heal her past wrong-doings and hurts. Colette is a strong heroine, with her own voice shining through - she drew me in as an endearing, faithful sort of woman - with her strengths, flaws and heartaches. She has a caring heart, and serving hands and I related with her desire to watch out for all her many younger brothers, protecting them, scolding them soundly (just like a mother-hen) and holding them close to her heart, even when they did not fully appreciate her love. That was very special and relatable!
Set in the thick of things of Paris during 1792, I have to applaud Jill Stengl's deftness in writing a historical drama. It is in the small details, the language, the culture and in the very nitty-gritty descriptions of attire, food, weapons and furniture - the very air itself - through which an author best depicts the era he/she is writing in. With Until That Distant Day, I was instantly pulled into the world of the French Revolution, thanks to those special details - the garden of the doctor which Colette tends faithfully and fondly, the safe haven of the kitchen she works in with Leonie, the slums where she serves and gives food to slave girls like Telly. It was fascinating! The addition of French lines in the character's conversations added a excellent spice. Having always wished to add bits of Latin into the dialogue of my own Ancient Roman novel, I enjoyed this feature very much. Mais oui!
As for the politics, I probably am not as well-informed about the history of the French Republic as I should be, and at first I was slightly confused when I read about the sans-culottes, and how the Republican assembly seemed in control of Paris, even though the King was still on the throne. I toddled off to my wonderful historian sister, Sarah, who explained the background of things for me all proper, so I learnt a thing or two more about the Revolution through Until That Distant Day in the mix! One of the things I love about historical fiction is that you learn about the past through the threads of a good story :). Perhaps the most stirring historical element was the massacre of the priests, and how Colette and her brothers were affected by that. That left me quite sad :(
You know how I mentioned Stengl's cast of characters reminded me of Dickens a bit? Well, I will talk about the characters now, because I think they deserve a good paragraph! :) As one reviewer said, this novel is totally character-driven. . . in some ways I think that the plot suffers a bit in balance, and that sometimes means that some characters, who seem like main-characters, play their roles in the background of things; often, you wish to know what this character is thinking or reacting over in the situation. But on the upside, following this story closely amidst a huge cast through Colette's eyes, you realize it is the same in real life. How often do you know the truth of things about other people, or what has been happening to them? You learn and understand through little bits and pieces about others - even about Colette herself, and you must be patient to get into the thick, exciting happenings of her life in time. And exciting things do happen!
Colette has many brothers, but we just get to know three of them: Pascoe, Étienne, and Claude. Pascoe and she are very close - but as the Revolution begins to unravel and become bloody, and Pascoe more and more a figure and leader of the Revolution, she and Pascoe drift apart. Could his resentment of Doctor Hillard, for whom Colette works as housekeeper, have a good enough reason? For his sake, could she give up a position she is truly happy in? Pascoe was at times very hard to like. If he is confident, charismatic, and full of charm - he is also a dissolute, rebellious and bitter, has a mistress, gets into duels, is bitterly sardonic of faith, and is all round a typical political hero in public, and a rascal in private-life. Colette loves him deeply, but her loyalties to the Doctor, and her desire to do what is right, bring that conflict to the fray. I enjoyed reading the relationship of the two, as siblings, both how close they were, and how conflicted they were. . . but how they loved each other deep down in the end. And so yes, I am glad I did not quite give-up hope for Pascoe, because, even for such a one as he, grace may yet be found. Claude. I think his character could have been explored more . . . what I glimpsed of him was not particularly endearing, but there were little glints of vulnerability to him that helped keep him real and interesting for the fleeting bits that we meet him. Étienne was my favourite of the brothers, though, he was the last I actually took the time to notice, in the same way Colette did. He is deeply religious, reticent and shy and also distant from the political whirlwind surrounding his siblings, but he cares a lot, and works hard at the blacksmith. I was cheering him along all the way :). Leonie Hillard (the doctor's daughter), was a mystery for both Colette and me from the start, but I enjoyed coming to know her, and even grew fond of her in time ;). Leonie's childhood playmate, Adrienne, (and her husband Arnaud), was my favourite. . . she did wrong, and I was grieved to read about that, but her vulnerability and fears were so heart-wrending, she was so young, you cannot help but feel a shred of pity for her! As for Doctor Hillard, he was even more mysterious and elusive than his daughter. Out of all the characters, he was probably the hardest nut to crack. If only he had more space in the story to 'get to know him', I think I would have come to appreciate him better.
While Until That Distant Day is a historical romance, there is surprisingly little romance to this novel (definitely not the lovey-dopey mushy sort!!), and as you all know, that was a winning point for me. This novel's focus was more on relationships besides the romantic kind, - on loving your neighbor, forgiving your brother, etc, - elements that are usually pushed aside in most novels these days for the Big Love Plot! What romance was there was sweet and appropriate, and totally fit the maturity of the characters - I did feel that the romantic arc for Colette in the novel was a little rushed, but other than that I had nothing to complain for the romance of this novel. The other side of the coin, however, is that this story deals with some detail on the moral situation in Paris during the Revolution that prevailed at the time - a truly immoral and godless age. Colette herself had a few unhappy affairs in her past for which she is both ashamed and grieved by (those are mentioned only briefly, in passing conversations), and on more than one occasion Pascoe urges her to take on the occupation of a mistress. I thought that appalling for a brother to do, but I admired Colette's staunch desire to do what is upright, and her encouragement of other young ladies in the mire of immorality. I especially appreciated her kindness to Adrienne, in whom she saw much of her unhappy past. Though there is much reference to the immorality surrounding the Republic, none of them were given in any details. I would however recommend this book for older readers (16 and up), due to the mature themes.
My favourite part of this story was when Colette started to seek God and turned to Him. The faith elements of this story were really well-done, but one of the things I especially appreciated in the novel was the realistic depiction of the manner in which Colette found her faith . . . Stengl does not try to convert her to an Evangelical Christianity, in a forced sort of way. Some authors would insist that their characters be somehow exposed to a certain theology, the perfect spiritual environment involving the character praying The Sinner's Prayer', and so forth. I don't mean to say that an author ought to throw his/her beliefs to the wind for the mere sake of expediency. But I found it very natural and right that Colette ( in the setting, culture and era she is in) finds Christ in attending the liturgies and Mass, hearing about the Good Shepherd from the words of the priest, and crying out to God to protect her loved ones. Well done, Ms. Stengl!
In conclusion to this rather lengthy review, I must say I really enjoyed this book. The climax was gripping, both emotional and sad, but at the same time beautiful and right. The ending probably could have been stronger, and where certain plot elements weren't explored as much as I wished, I am inclined to stick to the 4-star rating. But this is a lovely book! Where I expected a typical, half-churned out historical novel, I instead found a memorable tale of a woman's longings to do what is right, protect her loved ones and follow in Christ's ways. In its very looseness of plot, in the small realities of Colette's life within the very big realities of the French Revolution, I found much to love and appreciate, both story and character-wise, as well as in themes and hope, from Until That Distant Day.
*I received a free e-copy of this book from the publisher for an honest review.
My thought-musings for this book comes quite overdue, but the saying is that late is better than never. For summoning up my thoughts, I find myself in a bit of a quandary, for I both loved this book fiercely for its uniqueness and realistic story-telling, while at the same time I also felt that there was a lot more potential and hinted possibilities (especially character-wise) for this book than was explored by the author. In the end, I probably enjoyed this novel far more than I anticipated, and I definitely got thrilled at every new twist and turn of Stengl's pen - she is truly a wonderful storyteller, with a deft hand at weaving characters and plots that seem unrelated, drawing their threads together suddenly and delightfully to a climax; quite a Dickens trademark! And the theme of fallen humanity during such an immoral era, and God's grace, His peace given to His children in a dark, troubled world, rang beautifully throughout the story's pages.
Until That Distant Day starts off in a slightly un-characteristic fashion to the average historical novel, in the fact that Colette, the main character, talks to us through the story, telling us the things that happen and her thoughts in -what I felt- was the emotions of hindsight. It was very unique way, and I got interested in Colette's point-of-view and her quiet but strong and thoughtful interests quite from the start. She says, in opening, 'I was born believing that the world was unfair and I was the person to set it right.' That line pretty accurately sums up her disillusioned view of her city, the people she lives among, and her own stained past, while still caring about things, the people and places she knows, and desiring to better and change them - to help others and in so doing, redeem and heal her past wrong-doings and hurts. Colette is a strong heroine, with her own voice shining through - she drew me in as an endearing, faithful sort of woman - with her strengths, flaws and heartaches. She has a caring heart, and serving hands and I related with her desire to watch out for all her many younger brothers, protecting them, scolding them soundly (just like a mother-hen) and holding them close to her heart, even when they did not fully appreciate her love. That was very special and relatable!
Set in the thick of things of Paris during 1792, I have to applaud Jill Stengl's deftness in writing a historical drama. It is in the small details, the language, the culture and in the very nitty-gritty descriptions of attire, food, weapons and furniture - the very air itself - through which an author best depicts the era he/she is writing in. With Until That Distant Day, I was instantly pulled into the world of the French Revolution, thanks to those special details - the garden of the doctor which Colette tends faithfully and fondly, the safe haven of the kitchen she works in with Leonie, the slums where she serves and gives food to slave girls like Telly. It was fascinating! The addition of French lines in the character's conversations added a excellent spice. Having always wished to add bits of Latin into the dialogue of my own Ancient Roman novel, I enjoyed this feature very much. Mais oui!
As for the politics, I probably am not as well-informed about the history of the French Republic as I should be, and at first I was slightly confused when I read about the sans-culottes, and how the Republican assembly seemed in control of Paris, even though the King was still on the throne. I toddled off to my wonderful historian sister, Sarah, who explained the background of things for me all proper, so I learnt a thing or two more about the Revolution through Until That Distant Day in the mix! One of the things I love about historical fiction is that you learn about the past through the threads of a good story :). Perhaps the most stirring historical element was the massacre of the priests, and how Colette and her brothers were affected by that. That left me quite sad :(
You know how I mentioned Stengl's cast of characters reminded me of Dickens a bit? Well, I will talk about the characters now, because I think they deserve a good paragraph! :) As one reviewer said, this novel is totally character-driven. . . in some ways I think that the plot suffers a bit in balance, and that sometimes means that some characters, who seem like main-characters, play their roles in the background of things; often, you wish to know what this character is thinking or reacting over in the situation. But on the upside, following this story closely amidst a huge cast through Colette's eyes, you realize it is the same in real life. How often do you know the truth of things about other people, or what has been happening to them? You learn and understand through little bits and pieces about others - even about Colette herself, and you must be patient to get into the thick, exciting happenings of her life in time. And exciting things do happen!
Colette has many brothers, but we just get to know three of them: Pascoe, Étienne, and Claude. Pascoe and she are very close - but as the Revolution begins to unravel and become bloody, and Pascoe more and more a figure and leader of the Revolution, she and Pascoe drift apart. Could his resentment of Doctor Hillard, for whom Colette works as housekeeper, have a good enough reason? For his sake, could she give up a position she is truly happy in? Pascoe was at times very hard to like. If he is confident, charismatic, and full of charm - he is also a dissolute, rebellious and bitter, has a mistress, gets into duels, is bitterly sardonic of faith, and is all round a typical political hero in public, and a rascal in private-life. Colette loves him deeply, but her loyalties to the Doctor, and her desire to do what is right, bring that conflict to the fray. I enjoyed reading the relationship of the two, as siblings, both how close they were, and how conflicted they were. . . but how they loved each other deep down in the end. And so yes, I am glad I did not quite give-up hope for Pascoe, because, even for such a one as he, grace may yet be found. Claude. I think his character could have been explored more . . . what I glimpsed of him was not particularly endearing, but there were little glints of vulnerability to him that helped keep him real and interesting for the fleeting bits that we meet him. Étienne was my favourite of the brothers, though, he was the last I actually took the time to notice, in the same way Colette did. He is deeply religious, reticent and shy and also distant from the political whirlwind surrounding his siblings, but he cares a lot, and works hard at the blacksmith. I was cheering him along all the way :). Leonie Hillard (the doctor's daughter), was a mystery for both Colette and me from the start, but I enjoyed coming to know her, and even grew fond of her in time ;). Leonie's childhood playmate, Adrienne, (and her husband Arnaud), was my favourite. . . she did wrong, and I was grieved to read about that, but her vulnerability and fears were so heart-wrending, she was so young, you cannot help but feel a shred of pity for her! As for Doctor Hillard, he was even more mysterious and elusive than his daughter. Out of all the characters, he was probably the hardest nut to crack. If only he had more space in the story to 'get to know him', I think I would have come to appreciate him better.
While Until That Distant Day is a historical romance, there is surprisingly little romance to this novel (definitely not the lovey-dopey mushy sort!!), and as you all know, that was a winning point for me. This novel's focus was more on relationships besides the romantic kind, - on loving your neighbor, forgiving your brother, etc, - elements that are usually pushed aside in most novels these days for the Big Love Plot! What romance was there was sweet and appropriate, and totally fit the maturity of the characters - I did feel that the romantic arc for Colette in the novel was a little rushed, but other than that I had nothing to complain for the romance of this novel. The other side of the coin, however, is that this story deals with some detail on the moral situation in Paris during the Revolution that prevailed at the time - a truly immoral and godless age. Colette herself had a few unhappy affairs in her past for which she is both ashamed and grieved by (those are mentioned only briefly, in passing conversations), and on more than one occasion Pascoe urges her to take on the occupation of a mistress. I thought that appalling for a brother to do, but I admired Colette's staunch desire to do what is upright, and her encouragement of other young ladies in the mire of immorality. I especially appreciated her kindness to Adrienne, in whom she saw much of her unhappy past. Though there is much reference to the immorality surrounding the Republic, none of them were given in any details. I would however recommend this book for older readers (16 and up), due to the mature themes.
My favourite part of this story was when Colette started to seek God and turned to Him. The faith elements of this story were really well-done, but one of the things I especially appreciated in the novel was the realistic depiction of the manner in which Colette found her faith . . . Stengl does not try to convert her to an Evangelical Christianity, in a forced sort of way. Some authors would insist that their characters be somehow exposed to a certain theology, the perfect spiritual environment involving the character praying The Sinner's Prayer', and so forth. I don't mean to say that an author ought to throw his/her beliefs to the wind for the mere sake of expediency. But I found it very natural and right that Colette ( in the setting, culture and era she is in) finds Christ in attending the liturgies and Mass, hearing about the Good Shepherd from the words of the priest, and crying out to God to protect her loved ones. Well done, Ms. Stengl!
In conclusion to this rather lengthy review, I must say I really enjoyed this book. The climax was gripping, both emotional and sad, but at the same time beautiful and right. The ending probably could have been stronger, and where certain plot elements weren't explored as much as I wished, I am inclined to stick to the 4-star rating. But this is a lovely book! Where I expected a typical, half-churned out historical novel, I instead found a memorable tale of a woman's longings to do what is right, protect her loved ones and follow in Christ's ways. In its very looseness of plot, in the small realities of Colette's life within the very big realities of the French Revolution, I found much to love and appreciate, both story and character-wise, as well as in themes and hope, from Until That Distant Day.
*I received a free e-copy of this book from the publisher for an honest review.
December 29, 2014
Colette has always supported her brother, Pascoe’s, revolutionary ideas and soothed his volatile emotions. She is his staunchest advocate and constant supporter; however, when his loyalties to the revolutionary cause take a dangerous turn, Colette must decide what direction she wants her life to take and how much she is willing to sacrifice to be her brother’s keeper. Though Colette has made her share of mistakes, she strives to create a good life for herself. When living the life she desires doesn’t align with her brother political leanings, tension begins to escalate along with the rising tension in the city of Paris.
Jill Stengl is a new-to-me author, so I had no idea what to expect from Until That Distant Day. I was so happy to discover a well-built world in pre-revolution Paris and a compelling character in Colette. Stengl does a great job with the narration style. Her first person narration was intriguing and pulled me into the story with ease. Colette’s voice was very distinct, and I enjoyed looking at the world through her eyes. I really enjoy plots that feature relationships between siblings, and this one was especially entertaining.
Pascoe has to be one of the most frustrating yet intriguing characters I’ve encountered this year. His magnetic personality is often overshadowed by his volatile personality and vice versa. As a person who has to deal with seizures in a time when it was considered an oddity, not simply a medical condition, he was as equally compelling (though much more frustrating) as Colette. I applaud Stengl for taking on what might be a difficult topic to cover, especially in a novel set in this time period.
The dynamic between Colette and all of her brothers was entertaining and painful in turns. Her brother Etienne is a wonderful character, and his quiet strength was a powerful presence in the story. Stengl provides this story with strong characterization and realistic inner struggle, as well as external conflict. Colette’s spiritual growth coincided with her alarm over Pascoe’s move toward violent revolution, and I empathized with her desire to keep her family whole but at the same time explore the longings in her heart for God.
One thing I did want to see was more interaction between Colette & the city of Paris. Sometimes the setting was a little vague for me, although I know that is just this reader’s preference and it might not even be noticed by other readers. I feel that Stengl did a great job at presenting the gritty side of the conflict in Paris without showing any gratuitous violence; it was all for the sake of the plot and was appropriate for that part of the story. And while I was glad that romance didn’t dominate the plot, I did want a bit more chemistry. The romance was very sweet though and suited to the characters.
Overall, Until That Distant Day is a great story with true-to-life characters and well worth my reading time. I look forward to Jill Stengl’s upcoming books – at least, I’m hoping there will be more – it’s so refreshing to read first-person, especially when it’s done well as it was in this novel, and on top of that to have such a strong, endearing character telling the story. I definitely recommend this book for historical fiction readers.
Jill Stengl is a new-to-me author, so I had no idea what to expect from Until That Distant Day. I was so happy to discover a well-built world in pre-revolution Paris and a compelling character in Colette. Stengl does a great job with the narration style. Her first person narration was intriguing and pulled me into the story with ease. Colette’s voice was very distinct, and I enjoyed looking at the world through her eyes. I really enjoy plots that feature relationships between siblings, and this one was especially entertaining.
Pascoe has to be one of the most frustrating yet intriguing characters I’ve encountered this year. His magnetic personality is often overshadowed by his volatile personality and vice versa. As a person who has to deal with seizures in a time when it was considered an oddity, not simply a medical condition, he was as equally compelling (though much more frustrating) as Colette. I applaud Stengl for taking on what might be a difficult topic to cover, especially in a novel set in this time period.
The dynamic between Colette and all of her brothers was entertaining and painful in turns. Her brother Etienne is a wonderful character, and his quiet strength was a powerful presence in the story. Stengl provides this story with strong characterization and realistic inner struggle, as well as external conflict. Colette’s spiritual growth coincided with her alarm over Pascoe’s move toward violent revolution, and I empathized with her desire to keep her family whole but at the same time explore the longings in her heart for God.
One thing I did want to see was more interaction between Colette & the city of Paris. Sometimes the setting was a little vague for me, although I know that is just this reader’s preference and it might not even be noticed by other readers. I feel that Stengl did a great job at presenting the gritty side of the conflict in Paris without showing any gratuitous violence; it was all for the sake of the plot and was appropriate for that part of the story. And while I was glad that romance didn’t dominate the plot, I did want a bit more chemistry. The romance was very sweet though and suited to the characters.
Overall, Until That Distant Day is a great story with true-to-life characters and well worth my reading time. I look forward to Jill Stengl’s upcoming books – at least, I’m hoping there will be more – it’s so refreshing to read first-person, especially when it’s done well as it was in this novel, and on top of that to have such a strong, endearing character telling the story. I definitely recommend this book for historical fiction readers.
May 14, 2014
I’m a sucker for historical fiction, particularly historical fiction set during the French Revolution, and Until That Distant Day did not disappoint! Stengl’s research is impeccable, and I never once felt jolted out of the story by something that felt anachronistic. The characters are all intriguing and do not fall into the stereotypes one sometimes runs across in historical fiction. Colette is a unique heroine, and one with whom I found myself empathizing strongly. The web of sibling relationships was well done, and each Girardeau to whom the reader is introduced was a fully fleshed-out individual. Though mostly serious, the novel did occasionally make me laugh: in particular I loved the line, “On the wall above his chair hung a still-life painting of a green-marbled cheese, unnaturally red apples, and a dead pheasant wearing a traumatized expression.” Also, I’m not sure if the Firefly reference (“disturbing my calm”) was intentional or not, but either way, I loved it. : ) Overall, a splendid read, and I’m avidly hoping that Jill Stengl has another novel in the works.
June 10, 2015
Here is that rare thing, at least in my experience—a recently-written historical novel that completely captivated me. Though it's billed as historical romance (and there are satisfying touches of love interest involved in the plot) this is more a story of a family, a sister and brothers struggling to survive and preserve their relationships with each other as they are pulled different ways by the tumult of the French Revolution. Extremely well-written and very hard to put down!
March 2, 2019
This is the first of four parts of a novel. For some reason, it is offered as four separate but serial stories rather than one book. Of course, this first section ends with a cliffhanger. The book is set in 1792 in France. Since there isn't an obvious a romantic interest yet, I'll call it a historical novel. We get a tour of the political unrest of the time and larger, national events as the story unfolds. This is partly because the main characters are involved in politics. The characters were interesting and engaging. There was enough danger and conflict to create suspense. There was no sex or bad language. Overall, I'm interested enough to continue reading this serial.
October 1, 2020
Entertaining and Enlightening!
This story is well told, and keeps you interested! I learned a lot about the era, and I got to learn some French phrases! Don't expect everything to be all resolved at the end of the novela, however. You will need to go to the next "episode" to continue!
This story is well told, and keeps you interested! I learned a lot about the era, and I got to learn some French phrases! Don't expect everything to be all resolved at the end of the novela, however. You will need to go to the next "episode" to continue!
March 18, 2017
Oh my, I loved this story! The main character is so very sweet and caring in a big sister, motherly type of way. It feels like I'm talking with her in her garden, or walking quickly with her through the streets of Paris as she shares her love and concern for those around her, especially her brothers. It's all so very personal and real...particularly the way the worst of the revolution is almost sneaking up on many of the characters. Mrs. Stengl puts hearts in and faces on the masses of the French Revolution--people with dreams of a better life--people whose failures produce tragic consequences--people desperately in need of love, hope, and forgiveness--and people who need to grant the same to others. Powerful, tragic, hopeful, beautiful...I will read it again and again. (The perfect books for high school and above to read while studying the French Revolution.)
May 1, 2014
France, in 1792, was an unsafe place, and not only for the king and queen. As revolutionary fever seized the nation, and Paris descended into tumult and violence, everyone’s security became threatened; everyone’s peace melted away.
Colette, in the thick of things with her revolutionary brother, finds her spirit drifting away from it. Regretting the past and fearing the future, filled with concern for those she loves and can no longer protect, Colette now reaches for things that have nothing to do with politics.
But, as the old saying has it, just because you don’t take an interest in politics doesn’t mean politics won’t take an interest in you.
Until That Distant Day is a historical romance written by Jill Stengl and published by Rooglewood Press. The story fully entrenches itself in its historical setting; all sorts of fine details show a high level of research and create an encompassing sense of realism. The unrelenting heat, the political turmoil, the carriages in the streets, the characters’ reactions to a black slave – all invoke the world of 1792 Paris. But just as important are the little things. We watch the characters do small, daily acts, like going out to rain barrels for their water, and we taste the life they live.
The one historical element I would have liked to see expanded was the political conflict – not so much what happened but why it happened. Everybody wanted a republic instead of a monarchy, but why? I didn’t feel that the book explained the “first cause”, whatever troubles or grievances led the people to revolution in the first place. If I understood that unhappiness better, I might have understood better, and felt more, the cause and the passion surrounding it.
Until That Distant Day is a very character-driven book. Colette is a strong and complex character, both flawed and admirable. Claude and Pascoe, though sometimes unlikable, were yet understandable and ultimately sympathetic. All the characters felt very real, very human, from Tressy to Adrienne to Arnaud.
Although a romance, the novel is not primarily focused on the heroine getting her man. Other relationships are just as important to the story and just as deeply felt. I enjoyed seeing the brother/sister dynamic – a relationship that, for some reason, is often neglected in fiction. Even when stories feature sibling relationships, they tend to be brother/brother or sister/sister.
In some ways this novel is a study of humanity, and all our passions, faults, and virtues. Until That Distant Day shows sin and goodness entwining, in the world around us and in our own hearts. As a novel, it digs deep.
The historical milieu of Until That Distant Day is compelling and it imbues the story with a sense of danger. Impelled by its characters, with a wealth of human emotions and motivations, Until That Distant Day is a rich and profound novel.
I received a review copy of this book from the publisher.
Colette, in the thick of things with her revolutionary brother, finds her spirit drifting away from it. Regretting the past and fearing the future, filled with concern for those she loves and can no longer protect, Colette now reaches for things that have nothing to do with politics.
But, as the old saying has it, just because you don’t take an interest in politics doesn’t mean politics won’t take an interest in you.
Until That Distant Day is a historical romance written by Jill Stengl and published by Rooglewood Press. The story fully entrenches itself in its historical setting; all sorts of fine details show a high level of research and create an encompassing sense of realism. The unrelenting heat, the political turmoil, the carriages in the streets, the characters’ reactions to a black slave – all invoke the world of 1792 Paris. But just as important are the little things. We watch the characters do small, daily acts, like going out to rain barrels for their water, and we taste the life they live.
The one historical element I would have liked to see expanded was the political conflict – not so much what happened but why it happened. Everybody wanted a republic instead of a monarchy, but why? I didn’t feel that the book explained the “first cause”, whatever troubles or grievances led the people to revolution in the first place. If I understood that unhappiness better, I might have understood better, and felt more, the cause and the passion surrounding it.
Until That Distant Day is a very character-driven book. Colette is a strong and complex character, both flawed and admirable. Claude and Pascoe, though sometimes unlikable, were yet understandable and ultimately sympathetic. All the characters felt very real, very human, from Tressy to Adrienne to Arnaud.
Although a romance, the novel is not primarily focused on the heroine getting her man. Other relationships are just as important to the story and just as deeply felt. I enjoyed seeing the brother/sister dynamic – a relationship that, for some reason, is often neglected in fiction. Even when stories feature sibling relationships, they tend to be brother/brother or sister/sister.
In some ways this novel is a study of humanity, and all our passions, faults, and virtues. Until That Distant Day shows sin and goodness entwining, in the world around us and in our own hearts. As a novel, it digs deep.
The historical milieu of Until That Distant Day is compelling and it imbues the story with a sense of danger. Impelled by its characters, with a wealth of human emotions and motivations, Until That Distant Day is a rich and profound novel.
I received a review copy of this book from the publisher.
January 26, 2015
Depth, Drama, and just an all around captivating read! Absolutely outstanding!! There are just so many wonderful things to say about this book that I hardly know where to start. I loved the first person viewpoint -- it made the protagonist so engaging. Then again, I really felt like the author created lots of characters that came to life on the pages of her book. The plotlines and conflicts were intriguing. There were internal and personal struggles, as well as the outward struggle of the French Revolution. Which brings up another point -- the book had great drama, without being melodramatic, draining or overdone, and she handled the horrors of the Revolution in a way that was not sensationalistic. In my opinion, she got the point across perfectly.
The lead character, Colette, was very likeable and believable. I especially appreciated her strength, and the way she centered herself through her cooking and gardening, and prayer. I also liked that she never indulged in self-pity and instead cared for the people around her. The language of the book is just beautiful. The sprinkling of the few French words and phrases is just enough to remind the reader that they are, in fact, in France, but it's not so much that it takes away from the flow of the story. It reminded me of the way Agatha Christie handled her Belgian detective, Hercule Poirot, with a few French phrases now and then. The rest of the phrasing and wording is just right for the era. It's always a challenge for a historical author to settle on a language pattern -- if they write exactly as people spoke at that time, modern readers would never understand it. Yet if they wrote with modern language, readers wouldn't have the sensation of going back in time. I think Ms. Stengl found a perfect balance between the two.
But I think my favorite thing about this book was its depth. A reader can easily see the deeper meaning to this story, and I always appreciate a book that makes me think about situations later. Overall, I highly recommend this book. Author Jill Stengl did an excellent job of putting me, the reader, right smack dab in the middle of the story. I could see it, I could hear it, and for a moment, I thought I could even smell the flowers from Colette's garden.
I bought this as a Kindle book on sale for 99 cents. But now I'll be buying a paperback copy to keep on my shelves.
The lead character, Colette, was very likeable and believable. I especially appreciated her strength, and the way she centered herself through her cooking and gardening, and prayer. I also liked that she never indulged in self-pity and instead cared for the people around her. The language of the book is just beautiful. The sprinkling of the few French words and phrases is just enough to remind the reader that they are, in fact, in France, but it's not so much that it takes away from the flow of the story. It reminded me of the way Agatha Christie handled her Belgian detective, Hercule Poirot, with a few French phrases now and then. The rest of the phrasing and wording is just right for the era. It's always a challenge for a historical author to settle on a language pattern -- if they write exactly as people spoke at that time, modern readers would never understand it. Yet if they wrote with modern language, readers wouldn't have the sensation of going back in time. I think Ms. Stengl found a perfect balance between the two.
But I think my favorite thing about this book was its depth. A reader can easily see the deeper meaning to this story, and I always appreciate a book that makes me think about situations later. Overall, I highly recommend this book. Author Jill Stengl did an excellent job of putting me, the reader, right smack dab in the middle of the story. I could see it, I could hear it, and for a moment, I thought I could even smell the flowers from Colette's garden.
I bought this as a Kindle book on sale for 99 cents. But now I'll be buying a paperback copy to keep on my shelves.
May 19, 2014
Colette DeMer is one of the eldest of the fifteen Giradeau, now widowed she works for the Doctor Hilliard and his daughter Leonie, during a time of great political upheaval in France. Colette and her brother Pascoe are close, and even though they differ at many points, their relationship is an unbreakable bond between them. As the unrest increases and Pascoe's spells become more frequent, he begins to push her to choose between her family and her responsibilities. What and who will Colette ultimately choose?
This is touching, yet subtle historical novel, rich in detail, as told through the eyes of Colette. This is a book that while subtle and steady in its telling has that special spark of life, that made it both compelling and real.
Colette and her brother have always been close despite their differences, and Pascoe's rash nature. Both seek to protect each other, as the winds of upheaval roar. This book explored many different relationships, and perhaps most interesting was Colette's relationship with her tempestuous brother, as she struggled to be both mother and sister to him, as she fought to hold on and let go.
I found this book to be everything I look for in a historical novel, rich setting, compelling story line, many diverse and deep characters, drama, and even a touch of romance!
Overall, a wonderfully engaging and compelling read, that I could never quite put down. The characters were so well developed and the subtleties said far more about them than any outright statements ever could. A fantastic historical novel!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."
This is touching, yet subtle historical novel, rich in detail, as told through the eyes of Colette. This is a book that while subtle and steady in its telling has that special spark of life, that made it both compelling and real.
Colette and her brother have always been close despite their differences, and Pascoe's rash nature. Both seek to protect each other, as the winds of upheaval roar. This book explored many different relationships, and perhaps most interesting was Colette's relationship with her tempestuous brother, as she struggled to be both mother and sister to him, as she fought to hold on and let go.
I found this book to be everything I look for in a historical novel, rich setting, compelling story line, many diverse and deep characters, drama, and even a touch of romance!
Overall, a wonderfully engaging and compelling read, that I could never quite put down. The characters were so well developed and the subtleties said far more about them than any outright statements ever could. A fantastic historical novel!
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and testimonials in Advertising."
August 1, 2014
Memorable picture of French Revolution...
Set against the backdrop of the bloody French Revolution, Until That Distant Day faithfully chronicles the Girardeau adult siblings as they build allegiances and develop relationships. The main character, Collette, and her brothers have been taken to Paris under the wing of their small town physician, Dr.Sebastien Hilliard. Collette becomes the doctor's housekeeper, while Pascoe is a protege' of the doctor.
Tension begins building between the two close siblings when Pascoe parts ways with the doctor over political views. Both men are very involved in the political machinations-- Pascoe in leading the uprisings and the doctor in being part of the Assembly which is slow to depose the royals. Collette finds herself torn in her loyalties and not knowing how to respond in the great unrest. She questions the priest,"Pere, I long to know my purpose. Why am I here?"
Stengl does a fantastic job depicting the anxiety, confusion, and angst of those days in Paris. Also in portraying the hatred many held for God and the church, simply because people perceived the church to be supported by the crown.
So many good lessons: we need to seek God; He IS present, even in tragedy; love does not mean you can control the other person(s). A favorite quote?(In response to the question where was God when one of the tragic Revolution skirmishes took place) "God was there, gathering His children to His heart, and weeping over those who choose hatred and vengeance over mercy and grace."
A great portrayal of part of the revolution, the book started a little slowly at first and took awhile to engage. Once fully engaged, it became a memorable picture not easily dislodged. I received this book from the author for review purposes. All thoughts are my own.
Set against the backdrop of the bloody French Revolution, Until That Distant Day faithfully chronicles the Girardeau adult siblings as they build allegiances and develop relationships. The main character, Collette, and her brothers have been taken to Paris under the wing of their small town physician, Dr.Sebastien Hilliard. Collette becomes the doctor's housekeeper, while Pascoe is a protege' of the doctor.
Tension begins building between the two close siblings when Pascoe parts ways with the doctor over political views. Both men are very involved in the political machinations-- Pascoe in leading the uprisings and the doctor in being part of the Assembly which is slow to depose the royals. Collette finds herself torn in her loyalties and not knowing how to respond in the great unrest. She questions the priest,"Pere, I long to know my purpose. Why am I here?"
Stengl does a fantastic job depicting the anxiety, confusion, and angst of those days in Paris. Also in portraying the hatred many held for God and the church, simply because people perceived the church to be supported by the crown.
So many good lessons: we need to seek God; He IS present, even in tragedy; love does not mean you can control the other person(s). A favorite quote?(In response to the question where was God when one of the tragic Revolution skirmishes took place) "God was there, gathering His children to His heart, and weeping over those who choose hatred and vengeance over mercy and grace."
A great portrayal of part of the revolution, the book started a little slowly at first and took awhile to engage. Once fully engaged, it became a memorable picture not easily dislodged. I received this book from the author for review purposes. All thoughts are my own.
September 29, 2015
I am giving this book a 3 star rating only because there are some characters that aren't especially moral and their mistakes are spread throughout the book. So it was just the continual mature content(a few out of wedlock pregnancies, conversations involving former affairs, and the unwise decisions of some of the characters.) that put me on my gaurd and wouldn't let me rest easy. There is no point at which any of these things are given descriptions or visuals, so no worries there. :)
The writing was GREAT and I could really feel for the main character in the way she desired to set her brothers on the right path. I have felt similarly with my own brother, though nothing near to what she went through.
The love stories were so adorable and there were a lot of happy sighs involved!
Jill has a knack for writing in first person. I usually dislike the fist person perspective, but Jill pulled it off very well and I could easily see through the main character's eyes.
I would recommend this book for ages 16 and up because of the mature content.
The writing was GREAT and I could really feel for the main character in the way she desired to set her brothers on the right path. I have felt similarly with my own brother, though nothing near to what she went through.
The love stories were so adorable and there were a lot of happy sighs involved!
Jill has a knack for writing in first person. I usually dislike the fist person perspective, but Jill pulled it off very well and I could easily see through the main character's eyes.
I would recommend this book for ages 16 and up because of the mature content.
January 28, 2015
Colette is a member of the working lower class in Paris during the French Revolution. She lives there with three of her younger brothers. Two of which work as blacksmiths forging weapons for the Resistance, the third has political aspirations as a leader of the revolution. Colette works as a housekeeper for an upper class doctor turned politician. As tension mounts in the government and throughout Paris, Colette has to decide where her loyalties lie. Does she choose her brothers and their gung-ho approach to impeachment, or does she stay true to her employer and fight for the things he believes in? In a time where turning to God could brand you a traitor, Colette doesn’t know where to turn. Ms. Stengl has done a marvelous job of capturing the mood of the time period, staying true to history while delivering believable characters and a well-met message.
May 6, 2014
I enjoyed reading this book and learning about the history of France during this time. I was unaware of all the turmoil that had gone on during that time and this book gave me an interesting point of view. Colette finds herself on the opposite side of the uprising as her brother and she has to work at keeping things together and standing up for what she believes is right. Her brother tries to get her to leave her job and join him in the uprisings, but she remains committed to her employer and turns her brother down.
This book gives you insight of what went on during the day and kept me reading to see what would happen next. I would recommend this book for not only the story, but for the details as well.
I received this book free to review.
This book gives you insight of what went on during the day and kept me reading to see what would happen next. I would recommend this book for not only the story, but for the details as well.
I received this book free to review.
March 16, 2015
I almost gave this 5 stars. I don't know if I loved it because I just finished reading several poorly written books or what, but I really enjoyed the writing.
The historical detail was wonderful. The characters where great! They were so flawed & their lives had been kind of messy & that made them more real to me. Some of the characters could have been fleshed out a bit more (Dr. Hilliard, I didn't feel like I knew him very well) & I wish there had been more description of the characters physical appearances. I had a hard time visualizing the Doctor especially. The cover makes the book look like a cheap romance novel, and it's not. The romance is very secondary - which I liked. This book isn't perfect, but I definitely recommend it.
The historical detail was wonderful. The characters where great! They were so flawed & their lives had been kind of messy & that made them more real to me. Some of the characters could have been fleshed out a bit more (Dr. Hilliard, I didn't feel like I knew him very well) & I wish there had been more description of the characters physical appearances. I had a hard time visualizing the Doctor especially. The cover makes the book look like a cheap romance novel, and it's not. The romance is very secondary - which I liked. This book isn't perfect, but I definitely recommend it.
August 16, 2015
This was perhaps one of my favorite novels of 2014 and likely will maintain that place for a very long time. I read Until That Distant Day among some cherished authors and it stood out among a stellar crowd of books released this year. I absolutely loved this novel. It is not often that I find a character who is both mature and yet so completely relatable and human at the same time. Colette watches over her family and struggles alongside each of them during the French Revolution. There is romance within the novel but Colette can hold the story without it. I can't say I see that often within Christian inspirational fiction. There were plenty of twists and turns that kept me guessing. I started the novel around eight pm in the evening and couldn't stop reading until four in the morning.
November 12, 2014
Very different from the books I've been reading lately. It's a very serious book, tho that shouldn't be surprising since it is set during the French Revolution which was a awful period of time. The book doesn't really have a simple plot, boy + girl = relationship. Still, it was an interesting book, despite it's slow beginning.
April 22, 2014
This was my first time to read a book by Jill Stengl and she has a wonderful way with words! I enjoy reading historical novels from different eras and Jill Stengl wrote about a time in history that I enjoy reading about, post revolution Paris, France.
July 14, 2015
Great book! It was very well written. If someone told me it was a true story I would probably believe them.
Definitely not for children
Definitely not for children
July 23, 2015
That was.... really good! :)
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