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Tales of Corsica #1
The House at Zaronza
The past discovered. Rachel Swift travels to the Mediterranean island of Corsica to discover more about her ancestors. She comes across a series of passionate love letters and delves into their history. The story unfolds of a secret romance at the opening of the 20th century between a village schoolteacher and Maria, the daughter of a bourgeois family. Maria’s parents have other plans for her future and she sees her dreams crumble. Her life is played out against the backdrop of Corsica, the “island of beauty”, and the turmoil of World War I. This is a story about love, loss and reconciliation in a strict patriarchal society, whose values are challenged as the world changes. This edition is published with some minor editorial changes and a new cover design.
274 pages, Paperback
First published July 5, 2014
152 people are currently reading
573 people want to read
About the author
Vanessa Couchman
9 books87 followersVanessa moved to southern France in 1997 and hasn't looked back. Being a "history nut", she's in totally the right place. The beguiling Mediterranean island of Corsica also provides great inspiration, and she visits whenever she can.
Two of her three novels, THE HOUSE AT ZARONZA and THE CORSICAN WIDOW, are set on Corsica; the third, OVERTURE, is set in Southwest France and Paris, as is AUGUSTINE, a novella prequel.
Vanessa's short stories have been placed in writing competitions and published in anthologies. The stories in FRENCH COLLECTION: TWELVE SHORT STORIES are inspired by and set in France.
When she's not writing, Vanessa is reading, singing, walking, or enjoying France's famed cuisine and wine. She writes a popular blog about life in France, Life on La Lune.
Vanessa loves to hear from readers and always replies. Find her on her website https://vanessacouchmanwriter.com, or you'll be very welcome to subscribe to her regular newsletter: http://eepurl.com/comA9v.
Two of her three novels, THE HOUSE AT ZARONZA and THE CORSICAN WIDOW, are set on Corsica; the third, OVERTURE, is set in Southwest France and Paris, as is AUGUSTINE, a novella prequel.
Vanessa's short stories have been placed in writing competitions and published in anthologies. The stories in FRENCH COLLECTION: TWELVE SHORT STORIES are inspired by and set in France.
When she's not writing, Vanessa is reading, singing, walking, or enjoying France's famed cuisine and wine. She writes a popular blog about life in France, Life on La Lune.
Vanessa loves to hear from readers and always replies. Find her on her website https://vanessacouchmanwriter.com, or you'll be very welcome to subscribe to her regular newsletter: http://eepurl.com/comA9v.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
August 5, 2019
A solid 4.5 for this historical fiction. The author's attention to detail, descriptions, and setting make The House at Zaronza a compelling read.
September 29, 2016
The House at Zaronza is a beautiful piece of historical fiction by Vanessa Couchman. I bought the book a while ago but, to my shame, I have only just now got round to reading it. More fool me, because it’s an absolute treat of a book.
It’s set in Corsica in both the present day and the early twentieth century as our modern day heroine, Rachel, travels to Zaronza in Corsica to find out about her family. Through old letters and a memoir, Rachel uncovers the life of her grandmother, Maria Orsini, a truly courageous woman who grew up in difficult times, both on the national political stage and in the male-dominated domestic arena.
Vanessa depicts contemporary and historical Corsica in exquisite detail, and creates an array of rounded, persuasive characters whose strengths and foibles endear and frustrate us and render them all the more realistic. Nothing misses the author’s sharp eye. She has also clearly done extensive historical research and weaves this into her story in an authentic yet unobtrusive way. The result is a moving and powerful novel that, believe me, once you pick up you can’t put down.
I’m really looking forward to Vanessa’s next book, and in the meanwhile continue to enjoy her French living blog at vanessafrance.wordpress.com.
It’s set in Corsica in both the present day and the early twentieth century as our modern day heroine, Rachel, travels to Zaronza in Corsica to find out about her family. Through old letters and a memoir, Rachel uncovers the life of her grandmother, Maria Orsini, a truly courageous woman who grew up in difficult times, both on the national political stage and in the male-dominated domestic arena.
Vanessa depicts contemporary and historical Corsica in exquisite detail, and creates an array of rounded, persuasive characters whose strengths and foibles endear and frustrate us and render them all the more realistic. Nothing misses the author’s sharp eye. She has also clearly done extensive historical research and weaves this into her story in an authentic yet unobtrusive way. The result is a moving and powerful novel that, believe me, once you pick up you can’t put down.
I’m really looking forward to Vanessa’s next book, and in the meanwhile continue to enjoy her French living blog at vanessafrance.wordpress.com.
December 30, 2014
The House at Zaronza, a story of love, loss and conciliation, set on the island of Corsica in the early 20th century, immediately drew me in, and hooked me right to the end.
The story begins in the present, as Rachel Swift arrives at a guesthouse in Corsica in the hope of uncovering her past. But when she discovers a series of love letters between a schoolmaster and his secret lover, another story surfaces, and we walk straight into the life of a brave and remarkable woman of her times.
The author vividly brings to life the wild and rugged landscape of Corsica, and its people of that particular era, as well as deftly exploring WWI and its consequences. The characters are well-drawn and believable, the storyline intriguing and fascinating, and the descriptions beautiful. I would highly recommend this book to lovers of historical fiction looking for a gripping, well-written read.
The story begins in the present, as Rachel Swift arrives at a guesthouse in Corsica in the hope of uncovering her past. But when she discovers a series of love letters between a schoolmaster and his secret lover, another story surfaces, and we walk straight into the life of a brave and remarkable woman of her times.
The author vividly brings to life the wild and rugged landscape of Corsica, and its people of that particular era, as well as deftly exploring WWI and its consequences. The characters are well-drawn and believable, the storyline intriguing and fascinating, and the descriptions beautiful. I would highly recommend this book to lovers of historical fiction looking for a gripping, well-written read.
February 8, 2016
The beginning of the novel gives the reader a tiny glimpse of present day Corsican life when Rachel Swift visits the village of Zaronza, in search of information about her grandmother, who was once a resident. An ancestry researcher would be delighted with the scenario put forward by the author which comes in the form of a package of letters which were secretly stored away for many decades. A reading of the letters unravels the secrets of the mysterious Maria who is the recipient of the missives. The change by the author from present day Rachel’s viewpoint to the Maria of the early twentieth century is seamless. Without being over gory, there are sufficient details of Maria’s role during the Great War to easily empathise. I found the story very engaging, well written and very well edited –a delight to read.
October 7, 2014
The excellent writing of this novel, as well as the twists and turns of the story, kept me turning the pages, or rather swiping the screen.
This is a tale of love, hope, disappointment, betrayal and much more, all set against the beautiful Corsican scenery. The First World War scenes depict the heroine caring for soldiers who have suffered horrific injuries, showing her real character that was, of necessity, hidden in her Corsican village.
Highly recommended.
This is a tale of love, hope, disappointment, betrayal and much more, all set against the beautiful Corsican scenery. The First World War scenes depict the heroine caring for soldiers who have suffered horrific injuries, showing her real character that was, of necessity, hidden in her Corsican village.
Highly recommended.
March 23, 2019
The House at Zaronza has received a Chill with a Book Readers' Award.
www.chillwithabook.com
What a lovely story of love and loss. So descriptive of the island you could almost smell the flowers and herbs. Thoroughly enjoyed.
Pauline Barclay - Founder of Chill with a Book Awards
www.chillwithabook.com
What a lovely story of love and loss. So descriptive of the island you could almost smell the flowers and herbs. Thoroughly enjoyed.
Pauline Barclay - Founder of Chill with a Book Awards
April 12, 2020
A beautiful romance
This is beautiful romance set in Corsica before the Great War. I was surprised to learn from the author's note that it is based on the true story and the fact makes it even better.
This is beautiful romance set in Corsica before the Great War. I was surprised to learn from the author's note that it is based on the true story and the fact makes it even better.
October 29, 2019
An intrique take of betrayal, heartbreak and romance. First book from this authir for me, but not the last.
June 18, 2019
As I knew very little about Corsica before I started reading this book, I found it very interesting and enjoyed learning about the island and its people through this story of blighted love. I was particularly struck by the titbits concerning how the French treated and regarded the Corsicans during WWI as it follows a pattern often experienced by native speaking Spaniards, Portuguese and Italians in countries other than their European mainland 'mother' countries, as if these people are somehow less because they were born and raised elsewhere. And to find the Corsicans were treated as second class citizens by the French seems pretty appalling.
Unfortunately, the main character, Maria, didn't really move me much. I found it hard to empathise with her, and I felt more for her friend Sophia, who seemed a much deeper and more 'real' personality, but maybe that's just me. I was also left wondering about why the old lady had Maria's memoir too. She never got to explain this, which was a pity. That aside, and altogether, it was a good, well-paced storyline and the history was fascinating. I'm not sure if there's a sequel about Maria's WWII experiences. If there is, I will probably read it. As for this book, I can definitely recommend it.
Unfortunately, the main character, Maria, didn't really move me much. I found it hard to empathise with her, and I felt more for her friend Sophia, who seemed a much deeper and more 'real' personality, but maybe that's just me. I was also left wondering about why the old lady had Maria's memoir too. She never got to explain this, which was a pity. That aside, and altogether, it was a good, well-paced storyline and the history was fascinating. I'm not sure if there's a sequel about Maria's WWII experiences. If there is, I will probably read it. As for this book, I can definitely recommend it.
February 20, 2022
Five stars for this lovely story set in Corsica. I wanted to keep turning the pages to find out what happened and I thought the life of Maria intriguing and yet so poignant. Stories don't always have to have a happy and 'all wrapped up' ending. Life isn't like that and The House at Zaronza felt very realistic to me.
April 30, 2021
A very pleasant and informative read...I always wanted to know more about Corsica and it's people! Fiction is always a pleasant way to gather some actual knowledge!
December 11, 2018
Vanessa Couchman’s meticulous research is evident on every page of this artistically crafted prose. None of my senses was left wanting. Each character was compelling and well-drawn out, including World War 1, which Ms. Couchman expertly depicted as a key antagonist in this unique drama that takes the reader to unexpected and engrossing directions.
I rooted for Maria, the protagonist, as she grew into a self-confident young woman despite the many cards stacked against her. No matter the difficulties, and there were many, her tenacity, sense of self-worth, and love for her Island of Corsica remained steadfast.
An easy 5 stars
I rooted for Maria, the protagonist, as she grew into a self-confident young woman despite the many cards stacked against her. No matter the difficulties, and there were many, her tenacity, sense of self-worth, and love for her Island of Corsica remained steadfast.
An easy 5 stars
October 30, 2014
I’ve never been to Corsica, but the descriptions the author gives of the wild and rugged coastline and untamed mountains gave me a detailed image in my mind, which was perfect as the backdrop to the turbulent storyline. It has also made me determined to visit one day.
The story begins in the present when a young woman arrives in Corsica trying to piece together her past, but with almost all links extinguished can she shed any light on what happened? All Rachel has to go on is that her grandmother lived in Zaronza and her name was Maria, and she hopes that by staying there it will help solve the mystery. What she finds on arrival at the guesthouse is another mystery involving the love letters between a schoolmaster and his secret lover. Rachel is certain that by trying to unravel this story she will find answers to her own past.
Rachel uncovers a memoir and we find ourselves in the remarkable life of an extraordinary woman, who defied what was considered the norms for a lady of her position. She wasn’t afraid to stand alone and act to make a difference. She suffered, both at the hands of those she loved and from the circumstances she found herself in, but she was always caring and determined. The story was powerfully written and gripping. The characters were strong and believable. It covered a fascinating period of history from an unusual angle, highlighting the role of a woman from Corsica during the First World War. This book was like unwrapping a parcel, as every layer unfolded it added a little more, but always leaving so much more to discover.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction and I’m looking forward to reading more from Vanessa.
The story begins in the present when a young woman arrives in Corsica trying to piece together her past, but with almost all links extinguished can she shed any light on what happened? All Rachel has to go on is that her grandmother lived in Zaronza and her name was Maria, and she hopes that by staying there it will help solve the mystery. What she finds on arrival at the guesthouse is another mystery involving the love letters between a schoolmaster and his secret lover. Rachel is certain that by trying to unravel this story she will find answers to her own past.
Rachel uncovers a memoir and we find ourselves in the remarkable life of an extraordinary woman, who defied what was considered the norms for a lady of her position. She wasn’t afraid to stand alone and act to make a difference. She suffered, both at the hands of those she loved and from the circumstances she found herself in, but she was always caring and determined. The story was powerfully written and gripping. The characters were strong and believable. It covered a fascinating period of history from an unusual angle, highlighting the role of a woman from Corsica during the First World War. This book was like unwrapping a parcel, as every layer unfolded it added a little more, but always leaving so much more to discover.
I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction and I’m looking forward to reading more from Vanessa.
November 3, 2014
This summer I read the wonderful historical novel set in Corsica, The House At Zaronza. I’ve always wanted to visit this island so I eagerly soaked up the scenery and atmosphere as I read. I was also completely absorbed in the story. It is a well written love story that unfolds through letters discovered nearly a century after they were written. I sometimes hesitate to use the phrase ‘love story’ as it creates an impression of a story that’s soppy and clichéd. But this novel is anything but that - it’s passionate and heartrending as well as tender.
I was fascinated by the skilful way the author evokes the patriarchal Corsican society and creates a main character who quietly challenges it. The place is vividly brought to life and Maria, the main character is believable – she could be a flesh and blood person. It was very easy to lose myself in this novel. The story moved me and it really was a step back into a world that’s now gone. I felt privileged to have a glimpse into it and I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good, gripping story.
I was fascinated by the skilful way the author evokes the patriarchal Corsican society and creates a main character who quietly challenges it. The place is vividly brought to life and Maria, the main character is believable – she could be a flesh and blood person. It was very easy to lose myself in this novel. The story moved me and it really was a step back into a world that’s now gone. I felt privileged to have a glimpse into it and I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good, gripping story.
January 27, 2015
I was entranced by Vanessa Couchman’s tale of the discoveries that Rachel Swift makes when she travels to Corsica to discover more about her forebears. We are swept first into the rich setting of Corsica today, and then into the past arising from some love letters that lead to a tale told against the end of the 19th century and through the horrors of the First World War.
I felt strongly for the main character of Maria, who went through so much in her life against the backdrop of a Corsica and a world that were changing. I couldn’t put the novel down.
The landscape becomes a deeply portrayed character itself, full of wonderful descriptions of sight like the mountain views, the sounds of the people and churches, the tastes like the Eau de Vie made of myrtle berries, and the smell of maquis. As the tale unfolds, the words are full of personal poetry, tragedy and misunderstandings.
A highly recommended, whether you want historical or romance. I look forward to Vanessa’s next visit to Corsica.
I felt strongly for the main character of Maria, who went through so much in her life against the backdrop of a Corsica and a world that were changing. I couldn’t put the novel down.
The landscape becomes a deeply portrayed character itself, full of wonderful descriptions of sight like the mountain views, the sounds of the people and churches, the tastes like the Eau de Vie made of myrtle berries, and the smell of maquis. As the tale unfolds, the words are full of personal poetry, tragedy and misunderstandings.
A highly recommended, whether you want historical or romance. I look forward to Vanessa’s next visit to Corsica.
July 21, 2020
Pulling my shawl tighter around my shoulders, I pressed my hands against my chest to hold in the secret that I wanted to shout out loud.
The House at Zaronza is a frame story, which is what drew me to it in the first place. Unfortunately, the frame story felt a little superfluous, as if Couchman really wanted to write a historical novel but couldn't figure out how to write the ending, and thought a frame around the story would relief her of that obligation. Rachel's search for her roots and her family connection to Maria really didn't bring anything to the story, and, even worse, we didn't see the emotional results of her discovering that past. Everything after was rushed in a final chapter and epilogue.
Such a shame too, because the story of Maria and her forbidden love really did capivate me. The writing felt a bit clunky - though admittedly, I just finished Song of Achilles, so that might have been a contributing factor - but once I got into it, I was drawn to Maria's character, her strength.
August 21, 2014
I only occasionally read historical fiction but this was a good choice. What a joy it is to find a story that is easy to follow, entertaining and well-written. At the end of a book I like to feel I’ve learnt something beyond enjoying the story, which for me makes it more worthwhile. This novel didn’t disappoint.
The author has obviously well researched the history of Corsica and her love for it is evident in her heart-felt descriptions. I was fascinated to learn that the inspiration for this story came from a true story, based on some ancient love letters found recently in an attic, and the plot is fictionalised from there.
This novel had me reaching for my tissues at one point, and kept me guessing right to the last page.
The author has obviously well researched the history of Corsica and her love for it is evident in her heart-felt descriptions. I was fascinated to learn that the inspiration for this story came from a true story, based on some ancient love letters found recently in an attic, and the plot is fictionalised from there.
This novel had me reaching for my tissues at one point, and kept me guessing right to the last page.
July 2, 2020
This is part of a "Tales of Corsica" series, but is totally a stand-alone book as well. It's the only one of the series I have read. This was an enjoyable novel. The story begins in 2010 in the small town of Zaronza on the island of Corsica. Rachel is visiting the town, staying in an old house that is a small B&B. She's trying to find out about a grandmother she barely knew, who was from the town of Zaronza. She is shown a packet of letters written around 1900. The biggest part of the book is a look back at the life of a woman named Maria, who received the letters from the man she loved. The story will end up revealing various things and Rachel will find out things about her grandmother. The story was very good.
July 20, 2015
Another novel which I chose because we were going to Corsica on vacation. It is probably best described as women's fiction but even as a man I really enjoyed it. It was both sad and uplifting thanks to the main character who despite the heartache and disappointment she experiences in her life finds purpose and happiness through giving selflessly to others. It is also a reminder of how women were so undervalued and expected just to accept their lot in life only a few generations ago and still are today in so many parts of the world. It makes me glad my daughters are living in a much more enlightened time.
August 15, 2014
An enchanting and compelling story of a doomed love affair set against the backdrop of a strict moral society and the horrors of the World War 1. As Rachel searches for information about Maria, her Corsican grandmother, she uncovers the story of another Maria, born a few years earlier and ultimately closely connected with Rachel's grandmother.
The author's love and knowledge of Corsica shine from this book as the reader is swept up in Maria's struggles to break free from the chains that bind her to island culture.
I look forward to reading more from this author.
The author's love and knowledge of Corsica shine from this book as the reader is swept up in Maria's struggles to break free from the chains that bind her to island culture.
I look forward to reading more from this author.
December 31, 2015
I read Couchman's novel immediately following Morton's The Lake House (which was a far too lengthy disappointment.) What a difference; like drinking good wine after not so good. The House at Zaronza took me back to Corsica. I could see it, I could taste it. The journey with the narrator through the uncovering of family history is handled with extraordinary believability and the switching from the present into the past is done with smooth elegance. I cannot wait for Vanessa Couchman's next novel.
October 31, 2014
A very good novel. Well written and a pacy story. I was reminded of Jane Austen, as far as the story went up to the First World War. For me, if I can taste the coffee, bread and butter, feel the heat of the sun, experience the horror of the hospitals during the First War, then it is a job well done. I do think that Vanessa missed a trick in telling us too much about what happened to Maria in the Second World War. There is another book here. And I, look forward to it.
June 19, 2016
An atmospheric story of a Corsican woman that helps you understand the way life was for a woman in the early 1900s. I really enjoyed the combination of the love story and the descriptions of Corsica - which were never overbearing. I wanted to know what was going to happen, and couldn't put the book down.
January 15, 2025
Loved the setting- I read this one while here in Corsica so that made it extra special. Even though it is fiction it was very informative and it was interesting to learn about the history of Corsica (this book is set during World War I). I liked the characters of Maria and Sophie and how they discussed the struggles of women in Corsican society in early 1900s.
August 24, 2014
Really enjoyed this story with characters brought to life on the page. I appreciated the research that went into recreating the conditions at the Front during WW1 and the conditions that the soldiers fought under. It wasn’t as predictable as I expected either. A great read!
November 3, 2017
I purchased this book because I was vacationing with my family in Corsica and wanted to deepen my appreciation of Corsican history, geography, and culture. The House at Zaronza was the perfect story to encompass all of my criteria, and my visit there was a fine field trip to discover the sources of Vanessa Couchman's passion. Of great interest to me was the author's depiction of Corsican women's issues before, during and after World War I, the significant loss of life and limb of Corsican men, and the personal sacrifices that were made by the families of this little known, but majestic island. The natural beauty of Corsica is phenomenal and the author paints its many facets quite vividly.
I enjoyed this rich historical novel, and would highly recommend it to anyone who has an interest in Corsican life.
I enjoyed this rich historical novel, and would highly recommend it to anyone who has an interest in Corsican life.
February 7, 2022
Historical fiction isn't a genre I venture into often. Opting more towards crime thrillers, The House At Zaronza was a shorter, and more light-hearted read (not including the horrid details of nursing during the First World War).
The majority of the narrative taking place during the early twentieth century, this novel touched upon the early discourses of feminism, and the idea that women could depend on themselves without the reliance of their male superiors. Perhaps Couchman was trying to portray men in this story as those who were either overbearing and controlling, or couldn't be relied upon.
Overall, I liked the way that the narrative came back full circle to bring it back to the present day, how history can shape our lives even today.
A perfectly pleasant novel, however one that won't stick with me for a long time.
The majority of the narrative taking place during the early twentieth century, this novel touched upon the early discourses of feminism, and the idea that women could depend on themselves without the reliance of their male superiors. Perhaps Couchman was trying to portray men in this story as those who were either overbearing and controlling, or couldn't be relied upon.
Overall, I liked the way that the narrative came back full circle to bring it back to the present day, how history can shape our lives even today.
A perfectly pleasant novel, however one that won't stick with me for a long time.
March 22, 2019
March 22, 2019
Format: Kindle Edition
A young girl travels to Corsica to find out about her grandmother, Maria. Through letters and a diary, the story takes us through the growth of a young woman in a small town in Corsica whose father disapproves of the man she loves and forces her to marry another. Her personal development as an individual begins when she becomes a nurse during the First World War and her life afterwards. Once you go back in time with the author, it's hard to put the book down.
Format: Kindle Edition
A young girl travels to Corsica to find out about her grandmother, Maria. Through letters and a diary, the story takes us through the growth of a young woman in a small town in Corsica whose father disapproves of the man she loves and forces her to marry another. Her personal development as an individual begins when she becomes a nurse during the First World War and her life afterwards. Once you go back in time with the author, it's hard to put the book down.
August 15, 2017
It's always interesting to read about other countries and this book introduced me to Corsica. I enjoyed the story of a present-day woman trying to discover her unknown Corsican relatives and it was told in such a way from 1900's and 2010 that I was fascinated with the history of the family. I also like that the book was based indirectly on some real life people and situations from the past.
November 15, 2017
Poignant and beautiful. What a talent Vanessa Couchman is. I quickly fell in love with this expertly weaved tale of love and loss, repression and determination, resilience and pride, set against the rustic splendour of Corsica. A must read for any historical novel fans. A must read for any reader. Maria's life story truly moved me to tears and will live long in the memory.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews