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Pastoral
World War II pilot Peter Marshall leads the most successful bombing crew at his airbase, having survived an unusual number of extremely dangerous missions over Germany. However, when Peter falls hopelessly in love with an attractive WAAF officer—one who insists that wartime duties should take precedence over emotions—his concentration begins to suffer. Soon it looks as though his perfect run of successful missions may be at risk—along with the lives of Peter and his men—unless she can be persuaded to relent.
384 pages, Hardcover
First published January 1, 1944
156 people are currently reading
700 people want to read
About the author
Nevil Shute
99 books1,319 followersNevil Shute Norway was a popular British novelist and a successful aeronautical engineer.
He used Nevil Shute as his pen name, and his full name in his engineering career, in order to protect his engineering career from any potential negative publicity in connection with his novels.
He lived in Australia for the ten years before his death.
He used Nevil Shute as his pen name, and his full name in his engineering career, in order to protect his engineering career from any potential negative publicity in connection with his novels.
He lived in Australia for the ten years before his death.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 185 reviews
August 5, 2025
Pastoral is a charming old-fashioned love story set in WWII. I'm not a romance fan now and rarely read the genre, but this sweet story completely took me off guard. I believe the time and the setting did the trick.
The story is centered on a bomber pilot, Peter Marshall, and a signal officer, Gervase Robertson, and their love for each other, which slowly blossoms. Their story shows that even in the midst of an ugly war, the warm feelings of love and hope bring much-needed fuel to these young airmen. When Gervase initially rejects Peter's offer, the young officer slackens in his work and blunders into the near peril of himself and the crew of his plane. It's when Gervase agrees to take a chance that Peter becomes himself again. Shute shows that it is the hope that keeps the feet of these men who risked their lives on the ground. I liked this different take by Shute, probing into the human feelings of an important section of the war.
Despite the central theme of love, it is also a war story. Shute takes pains to make the reader understand the operational work carried out by the bomber planes and the tension and suspense of all involved, especially the ground staff, until the mission is completed and the crew safely arrives. Shute has worked well on these details, especially on Gervase's emotional strain when Peter's plane, R for Robert, is airborne until it completes its mission and safely returns to the base. This is my first Nevil Shute novel, and I really liked the way he brought these emotions alive. He writes well, simple yet interesting. Even his descriptions engage the reader's attention and never tire him.
The title Pastoral, one might say, is a peculiar choice for this kind of story. But it is not so. The setting is a country setting, for Shute has wanted to show that there is a life beyond the war for these young RAF men and women. Despite the dangers and uncertainties, these men and women try to lead their lives as naturally as possible, pursuing their hobbies in their spare time and entertaining their innocent hopes and dreams for a future in peacetime.
I very much enjoyed this novel. It was an interesting story and a comforting read. I felt so connected to the characters. They were real and dear to me. It was with difficulty that I parted from all those energetic youngsters. They took me back to that time of life when I was a youngster like them, full of hopes and dreams amidst a civil war.
More of my reviews can be found at http://piyangiejay.com/
The story is centered on a bomber pilot, Peter Marshall, and a signal officer, Gervase Robertson, and their love for each other, which slowly blossoms. Their story shows that even in the midst of an ugly war, the warm feelings of love and hope bring much-needed fuel to these young airmen. When Gervase initially rejects Peter's offer, the young officer slackens in his work and blunders into the near peril of himself and the crew of his plane. It's when Gervase agrees to take a chance that Peter becomes himself again. Shute shows that it is the hope that keeps the feet of these men who risked their lives on the ground. I liked this different take by Shute, probing into the human feelings of an important section of the war.
Despite the central theme of love, it is also a war story. Shute takes pains to make the reader understand the operational work carried out by the bomber planes and the tension and suspense of all involved, especially the ground staff, until the mission is completed and the crew safely arrives. Shute has worked well on these details, especially on Gervase's emotional strain when Peter's plane, R for Robert, is airborne until it completes its mission and safely returns to the base. This is my first Nevil Shute novel, and I really liked the way he brought these emotions alive. He writes well, simple yet interesting. Even his descriptions engage the reader's attention and never tire him.
The title Pastoral, one might say, is a peculiar choice for this kind of story. But it is not so. The setting is a country setting, for Shute has wanted to show that there is a life beyond the war for these young RAF men and women. Despite the dangers and uncertainties, these men and women try to lead their lives as naturally as possible, pursuing their hobbies in their spare time and entertaining their innocent hopes and dreams for a future in peacetime.
I very much enjoyed this novel. It was an interesting story and a comforting read. I felt so connected to the characters. They were real and dear to me. It was with difficulty that I parted from all those energetic youngsters. They took me back to that time of life when I was a youngster like them, full of hopes and dreams amidst a civil war.
More of my reviews can be found at http://piyangiejay.com/
April 10, 2023
This book comes with a soundtrack. Listen to Sinatra while you read this review, and you will have the atmosphere for the beginning of the story.
Moonlight Becomes You
This is a war story and it is a love story, but it isn’t just like any war or love story you have read before. It is written by a man who obviously saw the war and probably saw a lot of young men and women struggle with the massive responsibility they shouldered and the precarious nature of falling in love during such a pervasive conflict.
Gervase Robertson is a section officer with the W.A.A.F; a young lady who takes her job very seriously and feels compelled not to let anything get in the way of her duties. Peter Marshall is a twenty-four year old bomber pilot who has survived in excess of fifty sorties into German territory, who falls for Gervase, as the saying goes, like a ton of bricks.
I could not stop thinking about how young these two were, how much authority and risk of life lay in their hands, how well they handled it, and how different it was to be twenty-one or twenty-four in this world of bombs and death than in the days of relative peace we have known. I can scarcely imagine a single twenty year old who could bear this burden now, although I am sure there have been many such during the wars in the Middle East and I know for sure there were in Vietnam. I’m not sure why, but World War II always seems like a more intimate and omnipresent war, especially when told from the British point of view.
This is also a bit of a fishing story, the way A River Runs Through It is a fishing story. I wonder what it is about standing on a bank or in a river casting for fish that conjures a scene of peace and joy and oneness with nature. Shute’s writing made me wish I could go once more and sit on the bank and have the fish I caught fried up over an open fire, as we were known to do when I was young.
I love Nevil Shute. I love the way he simply tells his story without fanfare and the way his characters seem to be people you know and can believe in. It occurs to me that one of the things I love about his books is the decency of his characters; a quality that is entrenched in them and their world.
Couldn’t close without offering the second installment in the sound track. I played this while I read the final chapter. It was significant.
A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square
Moonlight Becomes You
This is a war story and it is a love story, but it isn’t just like any war or love story you have read before. It is written by a man who obviously saw the war and probably saw a lot of young men and women struggle with the massive responsibility they shouldered and the precarious nature of falling in love during such a pervasive conflict.
Gervase Robertson is a section officer with the W.A.A.F; a young lady who takes her job very seriously and feels compelled not to let anything get in the way of her duties. Peter Marshall is a twenty-four year old bomber pilot who has survived in excess of fifty sorties into German territory, who falls for Gervase, as the saying goes, like a ton of bricks.
I could not stop thinking about how young these two were, how much authority and risk of life lay in their hands, how well they handled it, and how different it was to be twenty-one or twenty-four in this world of bombs and death than in the days of relative peace we have known. I can scarcely imagine a single twenty year old who could bear this burden now, although I am sure there have been many such during the wars in the Middle East and I know for sure there were in Vietnam. I’m not sure why, but World War II always seems like a more intimate and omnipresent war, especially when told from the British point of view.
This is also a bit of a fishing story, the way A River Runs Through It is a fishing story. I wonder what it is about standing on a bank or in a river casting for fish that conjures a scene of peace and joy and oneness with nature. Shute’s writing made me wish I could go once more and sit on the bank and have the fish I caught fried up over an open fire, as we were known to do when I was young.
I love Nevil Shute. I love the way he simply tells his story without fanfare and the way his characters seem to be people you know and can believe in. It occurs to me that one of the things I love about his books is the decency of his characters; a quality that is entrenched in them and their world.
Couldn’t close without offering the second installment in the sound track. I played this while I read the final chapter. It was significant.
A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square
May 24, 2023
That certain night, the night we met,
There was magic abroad in the air.
There were angels dining at the Ritz,
And a nightingale sang in Berkeley Square.
. . .
I may be right, I may be wrong,
But I'm perfectly willing to swear,
That when you turned and smiled at me,
A nightingale sang in Berkeley Square.
(A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square)
I am not an avid reader of romance, but picked up this one for a nice change of pace from a recent Russian lit binge.
Now, the thoughts about the book that I’ll note will mostly be comparison and parallels of this book that I draw with Ernest Hemingway’s A Farewell to Arms.
Both are love stories set in wartime. But I liked Pastoral much better compared to A Farewell to Arms. In Pastoral we see a natural and beautiful progression of love. It’s actually a love story.
In Farewell to Arms I couldn’t connect with the characters, and couldn’t see the love blossom. Now in retrospect I feel that I could not connect very well with Hemingway’s stark prose, and dialogues seemed superficial and unrealistic. Whereas here we come to know the characters. To be honest there was no deep character study in Pastoral, but it delivered what it promised; a tender love-story. The dialogues were real and heartfelt. The two central characters actually talked, giving a foundation to their love.
There were quite interesting supporting characters as well, apart from our hero and heroine.
There were also interesting flight-bombing scenes, since the guy, Peter Marshall of R.A.F. is a Flight Lieutenant pilot of Wellingtons. The girl, Gervase Robertson is a W.A.A.F. Section officer at the same base. These two are immensely young and also very kiddish at times, which makes certain instances really sweet. How they met was also very cute!
Marshall hesitated, and then crossed over to him. "I caught a bloody nice fish to-day," he said gently. All the conceit had gone out of his voice. "Like to come and have a look at it? It's in the dining-room."
Forbes said without moving: I don't think so."
Marshall said in a low tone: "Come on, old boy. Snap out of it.”
Forbes raised his head. "If you don't muck off and let me alone," he said, "I'll kick your bloody face in."
Marshall moved away towards the table with the periodicals upon it. Section Officer Robertson looked up from Punch as he passed her. He looked like a little boy, she thought, disappointed because nobody would play with him. It was too bad.
She got up from her chair. "I'lI come and see your fish," she said, "if I may. Where did you say it was ?"
Peter falls in love with Gervase early on but Gervase is or isn’t in love, initially. But this starts driving Peter to distraction and his works suffers, whereas till now he had been leading one of the best bombing crews out of their base. The story is how this couple gets to know each other, and give themselves an opportunity to discover love. I grew very attached to these characters, and personally got involved in their story and their wellbeing. Apart from being a love story the author did not neglect the war. It was more than a background element. There were technically rich descriptions of the bomber planes, where Shute’s own background as an aeronautical engineer came in handy. It conveyed well the anxieties of the ground staff, and the suspense involved with last minute troubles that can arise in routine procedures. It played very well with the unpredictability and tragedy of the war. In fact there is one episode of such a bombing flight which gets very tense and pulls the readers to the edge of their seats. The present physical danger and emotional strain experienced by the characters in that moment is very palpable and tangible. The readers become throughly invested!
It was a beautiful novel. It very sweet and I quite loved it! A few things did irk me at some points but overall I enjoyed the book. A very comforting read.
There was magic abroad in the air.
There were angels dining at the Ritz,
And a nightingale sang in Berkeley Square.
. . .
I may be right, I may be wrong,
But I'm perfectly willing to swear,
That when you turned and smiled at me,
A nightingale sang in Berkeley Square.
(A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square)
I am not an avid reader of romance, but picked up this one for a nice change of pace from a recent Russian lit binge.
Now, the thoughts about the book that I’ll note will mostly be comparison and parallels of this book that I draw with Ernest Hemingway’s A Farewell to Arms.
Both are love stories set in wartime. But I liked Pastoral much better compared to A Farewell to Arms. In Pastoral we see a natural and beautiful progression of love. It’s actually a love story.
In Farewell to Arms I couldn’t connect with the characters, and couldn’t see the love blossom. Now in retrospect I feel that I could not connect very well with Hemingway’s stark prose, and dialogues seemed superficial and unrealistic. Whereas here we come to know the characters. To be honest there was no deep character study in Pastoral, but it delivered what it promised; a tender love-story. The dialogues were real and heartfelt. The two central characters actually talked, giving a foundation to their love.
There were quite interesting supporting characters as well, apart from our hero and heroine.
There were also interesting flight-bombing scenes, since the guy, Peter Marshall of R.A.F. is a Flight Lieutenant pilot of Wellingtons. The girl, Gervase Robertson is a W.A.A.F. Section officer at the same base. These two are immensely young and also very kiddish at times, which makes certain instances really sweet. How they met was also very cute!
Marshall hesitated, and then crossed over to him. "I caught a bloody nice fish to-day," he said gently. All the conceit had gone out of his voice. "Like to come and have a look at it? It's in the dining-room."
Forbes said without moving: I don't think so."
Marshall said in a low tone: "Come on, old boy. Snap out of it.”
Forbes raised his head. "If you don't muck off and let me alone," he said, "I'll kick your bloody face in."
Marshall moved away towards the table with the periodicals upon it. Section Officer Robertson looked up from Punch as he passed her. He looked like a little boy, she thought, disappointed because nobody would play with him. It was too bad.
She got up from her chair. "I'lI come and see your fish," she said, "if I may. Where did you say it was ?"
Peter falls in love with Gervase early on but Gervase is or isn’t in love, initially. But this starts driving Peter to distraction and his works suffers, whereas till now he had been leading one of the best bombing crews out of their base. The story is how this couple gets to know each other, and give themselves an opportunity to discover love. I grew very attached to these characters, and personally got involved in their story and their wellbeing. Apart from being a love story the author did not neglect the war. It was more than a background element. There were technically rich descriptions of the bomber planes, where Shute’s own background as an aeronautical engineer came in handy. It conveyed well the anxieties of the ground staff, and the suspense involved with last minute troubles that can arise in routine procedures. It played very well with the unpredictability and tragedy of the war. In fact there is one episode of such a bombing flight which gets very tense and pulls the readers to the edge of their seats. The present physical danger and emotional strain experienced by the characters in that moment is very palpable and tangible. The readers become throughly invested!
It was a beautiful novel. It very sweet and I quite loved it! A few things did irk me at some points but overall I enjoyed the book. A very comforting read.
May 19, 2021
Pastoral is one of Nevil Shute's old fashioned and absorbing novels. It is both a war story and a love story set in Britain during WWII. As usual we have Shute’s straightforward and simple writing style and manner of storytelling. Also typical of any Shute novel, we have not only one but two likable (or lovable) protagonists who must do a difficult job under very difficult circumstances. Enter Captain Peter Marshall, a World War II RAF pilot who leads the most successful bombing crew at his airbase in Oxfordshire, England. Our second protagonist is a WAAF signalist, Gervase Robertson newly stationed at Peter’s airbase. Her job is to record the progress of the aircraft as they report back (or not) to the base during the bombing missions.
There are always obstacles for Shute’s protagonists and this time the obstacles are the feelings our protagonists have for each other. Peter quickly falls in love with Gervase. The reader can’t help but wonder whether Gervase will return this love and whether both of them will be able to attend to their jobs despite the distractions of their secret relationship. There is a reason romantic relationships are forbidden on airbases.
We go on a couple bombing raids with Peter and his crew (and hear about others, both successful and not). They are described so expertly and realistically that I felt like I was in that plane with Peter and his crew. Given all of the books I’ve read about WWII I have never been interested in the particulars about flying or bombing raids but Shute’s descriptions , as seen through Peter’s eyes, had me enthralled.
So why is a love and war story titled "Pastoral?" During their time off the officers relax in the great outdoors. Fishing is the preferred activity and becoms an important part of the story.
There are always obstacles for Shute’s protagonists and this time the obstacles are the feelings our protagonists have for each other. Peter quickly falls in love with Gervase. The reader can’t help but wonder whether Gervase will return this love and whether both of them will be able to attend to their jobs despite the distractions of their secret relationship. There is a reason romantic relationships are forbidden on airbases.
We go on a couple bombing raids with Peter and his crew (and hear about others, both successful and not). They are described so expertly and realistically that I felt like I was in that plane with Peter and his crew. Given all of the books I’ve read about WWII I have never been interested in the particulars about flying or bombing raids but Shute’s descriptions , as seen through Peter’s eyes, had me enthralled.
So why is a love and war story titled "Pastoral?" During their time off the officers relax in the great outdoors. Fishing is the preferred activity and becoms an important part of the story.
July 3, 2019
Peter Marshall, a World War Two RAF pilot, leads the most successful bombing crew at his airbase in Oxfordshire, England. Then he falls head over heels in love with WAAF signalist, Gervase Robertson. He can no longer think straight. She, on the other hand, is ultra-disciplined. She rigorously controls her emotions. Will she marry him or will she not? Does she even love him?
The author studied at the Royal Military Academy at Woolwich, England. He became an aeronautical engineer and a pilot. His knowledge gives the description of flying and life at the airbase authenticity.
The prose style is clean, direct and without frill. Engineering details are peppered throughout. Characters are consistently morally upright and well-behaved. The language spoken is correct, clean and polite in every instance. This is quite a contrast with the World War Two military life drawn by American authors.
There is some excitement when up in the air flying, but otherwise the rest is exceedingly tame and humdrum despite the fact that we are told of failed missions and of crew and pilots that never return. At the base, picnics and fishing and the scandalous sharing of a cup of tea is about all that happens.
Love, as it is drawn here, is devoid of passion.
The ending stretches credibility beyond reasonable limits. Peter ! The ending made it clear to me that I could not give the book anything but one star. A book that is tame is possibly OK, but the ending is just too much.
The audiobook is read by Roger Davis. There is nothing wrong with his performance, except that the song I speak of in the spoiler is too glamorously sung. Singing in such a manner magnifies what I dislike. It would have been better had he stumbled or sung a bit off-key! I am a fan of reality. On the other hand, the author would probably love how the song is sung. I have given the narration three stars. It is never difficult to hear what is being said.
This book by Nevil Shute is the total opposite of James Salter’s books, for example The Hunters, about flying, and A Sport and a Pastime, about love. The themes are the same, but the two authors tackle these themes in opposite ways.
This is a clean, tame, schmaltzy, feel-good story. If that is what you are looking for, you will probably love it.
******************
The Far Country 4 stars
Pied Piper 3 stars
Trustee from the Toolroom 3 stars
Pastoral 1 star
A Town Like Alice TBR
Requiem for a Wren TBR
The author studied at the Royal Military Academy at Woolwich, England. He became an aeronautical engineer and a pilot. His knowledge gives the description of flying and life at the airbase authenticity.
The prose style is clean, direct and without frill. Engineering details are peppered throughout. Characters are consistently morally upright and well-behaved. The language spoken is correct, clean and polite in every instance. This is quite a contrast with the World War Two military life drawn by American authors.
There is some excitement when up in the air flying, but otherwise the rest is exceedingly tame and humdrum despite the fact that we are told of failed missions and of crew and pilots that never return. At the base, picnics and fishing and the scandalous sharing of a cup of tea is about all that happens.
Love, as it is drawn here, is devoid of passion.
The ending stretches credibility beyond reasonable limits. Peter ! The ending made it clear to me that I could not give the book anything but one star. A book that is tame is possibly OK, but the ending is just too much.
The audiobook is read by Roger Davis. There is nothing wrong with his performance, except that the song I speak of in the spoiler is too glamorously sung. Singing in such a manner magnifies what I dislike. It would have been better had he stumbled or sung a bit off-key! I am a fan of reality. On the other hand, the author would probably love how the song is sung. I have given the narration three stars. It is never difficult to hear what is being said.
This book by Nevil Shute is the total opposite of James Salter’s books, for example The Hunters, about flying, and A Sport and a Pastime, about love. The themes are the same, but the two authors tackle these themes in opposite ways.
This is a clean, tame, schmaltzy, feel-good story. If that is what you are looking for, you will probably love it.
******************
The Far Country 4 stars
Pied Piper 3 stars
Trustee from the Toolroom 3 stars
Pastoral 1 star
A Town Like Alice TBR
Requiem for a Wren TBR
September 25, 2012
"Pastoral" was one of the many Nevil Shute novels I read when I was 12. I later ran into it again in 1973 in a British bookstore in Bangkok . At the time (the tail-end of the Viet Nam War) I was a WAF captain stationed at an air base on the central plateau of Thailand.
I wondered if Gervase Robertson, the heroine I had read so many years before, had led me there--into the Air Force in a time of war.
August 13, 2025
Pastoral is a story of a Wellington bomber crew in the Royal Air Force stationed in Oxfordshire during WWII and the relationship between Squadron Leader Peter Marshall and Signal Officer Gervase Robertson, a WAAF (Women's Auxiliary Air Force) officer assigned to the base. The storyline involves the crew’s bombing missions over occupied Europe, the downtime activities in the local community (especially fishing), and the interactions between Peter and Gervase. The storyline combines the dangers of wartime aviation with quieter moments of human connection.
Shute’s background as an aeronautical engineer and pilot is evident in the detailed scenes of aircraft operations. I particularly enjoyed the vivid episodes involving bombing missions over Germany, where the tension is almost palpable - I felt like part of the crew. I also enjoyed the focus on the often-overlooked contributions of the WAAF. It is written in Shute’s usual straightforward style. I think it is especially successful in portraying the psychological toll of war and the role of relationships in maintaining morale. For me, the only downside is the unrealistic ending, but it was probably just the ticket for readers at the time it was published (1944).
Shute’s background as an aeronautical engineer and pilot is evident in the detailed scenes of aircraft operations. I particularly enjoyed the vivid episodes involving bombing missions over Germany, where the tension is almost palpable - I felt like part of the crew. I also enjoyed the focus on the often-overlooked contributions of the WAAF. It is written in Shute’s usual straightforward style. I think it is especially successful in portraying the psychological toll of war and the role of relationships in maintaining morale. For me, the only downside is the unrealistic ending, but it was probably just the ticket for readers at the time it was published (1944).
September 5, 2023
Setting: Oxfordshire, England; World War Two.
During World War Two, Peter Marshall is an experienced pilot currently flying Wellington bombers from an Oxfordshire base on night-time bombing raids over Germany and Italy. He and his crew are one of the more experienced crews flying from the base and they have flown over 50 sorties without much incident. Then, Peter meets WAAF officer Gervase Robertson and feels an instant attraction to her. They spend a few days together on various excursions from the base and all is good for the pair - until Peter proposes to Gervase and she turns him down. Peter then becomes argumentative with his crew and commits a couple of errors of judgement when flying on raids, resulting in a couple of near misses.....
Written in 1944 and set in about the same time period, this is a classic novel of its time which, despite the archaic attitudes to women and what they want out of life, is still a good read. The descriptions of the flights and raids themselves were intriguing and provided some moments of tension as there were possibilities that Peter and his crew would not survive on each successive mission they went on. Also, interesting descriptions of the antics of the crews when not actually flying, for example their fishing expeditions. In summary, very much a 1940's novel but still an enjoyable read - 8.5/10.
During World War Two, Peter Marshall is an experienced pilot currently flying Wellington bombers from an Oxfordshire base on night-time bombing raids over Germany and Italy. He and his crew are one of the more experienced crews flying from the base and they have flown over 50 sorties without much incident. Then, Peter meets WAAF officer Gervase Robertson and feels an instant attraction to her. They spend a few days together on various excursions from the base and all is good for the pair - until Peter proposes to Gervase and she turns him down. Peter then becomes argumentative with his crew and commits a couple of errors of judgement when flying on raids, resulting in a couple of near misses.....
Written in 1944 and set in about the same time period, this is a classic novel of its time which, despite the archaic attitudes to women and what they want out of life, is still a good read. The descriptions of the flights and raids themselves were intriguing and provided some moments of tension as there were possibilities that Peter and his crew would not survive on each successive mission they went on. Also, interesting descriptions of the antics of the crews when not actually flying, for example their fishing expeditions. In summary, very much a 1940's novel but still an enjoyable read - 8.5/10.
July 24, 2021
I have enjoyed two books by Nevil Shute (A Town Like Alice and On the Beach) and the reviews about this one were equally convincing. I was not disappointed. In fact, the writing seemed better in this one than in the previous two. Am I getting used to Shute or was it actually better?
Romantic but in the best sense of the word. Not campy, thank goodness. Genuine and makes you want to keep reading. I can see why Shute's books get such high ratings. But since they are so addicting, I may need to give them a break and get back to a strict diet of serious reading.
Pastoral is the story of a budding but thwarted romance between a young bomber pilot and WAAF during the days of Bombing raids over Germany in WWII. There is a good balance between exciting flying adventure and down time. As always with Shute, interesting characters.
Also, almost all of his books are available on kindle now for $.99 or $1.99 and you can hardly beat that. It is probably what they sold for originally as market paperbacks, although a dollar or two was worth a lot more back then.
Romantic but in the best sense of the word. Not campy, thank goodness. Genuine and makes you want to keep reading. I can see why Shute's books get such high ratings. But since they are so addicting, I may need to give them a break and get back to a strict diet of serious reading.
Pastoral is the story of a budding but thwarted romance between a young bomber pilot and WAAF during the days of Bombing raids over Germany in WWII. There is a good balance between exciting flying adventure and down time. As always with Shute, interesting characters.
Also, almost all of his books are available on kindle now for $.99 or $1.99 and you can hardly beat that. It is probably what they sold for originally as market paperbacks, although a dollar or two was worth a lot more back then.
February 18, 2010
I'm not sure why Nevil Shute isn't a better known writer, as this is the second book of his that ended up being absolutely wonderful. This story of a British bomber pilot during World War II who falls in love with a female officer felt realistic and romantic at the same time. Shute's real war-time experience could be seen throughout the book and his gift for writing strong, capable female characters has never been better. I'd definitely recommend this one.
February 6, 2016
I can't help myself, 5 Stars, Nevil Shute has never failed to deliver a great story. This one just makes you feel good.
April 19, 2019
PASTORAL is a nicely paced love story between an RAF officer pilot and a WAAF officer—a big ‘no, no’ in the military at that time. We are kept wondering if this is all going to turn out well. Nevil Shute cinematically describes tense bombing raids over Germany, making us feel as though we are there in the Wellington bomber with Captain Peter Marshall and his crew. Shute obviously knows not only about his main subject—aeroplanes, but fishing too, which he throws into the mix as a restful diversion. This story tells of how the Brits were letting Hitler have some of his own back.
During the London Blitz, my own father was a twenty-five-year-old fireman who saw terrible things and lost many friends. He came home at least twice to find his family home flattened. Fortunately, the neighbors raced out to tell him the family was safe in a shelter. But those must have been heart-stopping moments. I thoroughly recommend this book to those looking for a great author of many wonderful books inhabited by believable, likable characters you will become invested in.
During the London Blitz, my own father was a twenty-five-year-old fireman who saw terrible things and lost many friends. He came home at least twice to find his family home flattened. Fortunately, the neighbors raced out to tell him the family was safe in a shelter. But those must have been heart-stopping moments. I thoroughly recommend this book to those looking for a great author of many wonderful books inhabited by believable, likable characters you will become invested in.
March 2, 2012
I've been rereading Nevil Shute books as my Mom has a collection of them in her room at the nursing home. It's rather like meeting old friends as I probably first read them in my early 20's. They tell of a different time and it is important when reading them to remember when they were written. Pastoral tells of a romance which develops at an airbase in WW2. It tells of the camraderie of men who go out on bombing sorties over Germany and how important teamwork and trust is if they wish to return alive. It tells of the joys to be found in nature which help to keep life in perspective for those who may lose their lives at any time.
January 27, 2016
I don't know what it is about Nevil Shute's writing that is so absorbing. It's the very essence of simplicity and understatement, filled with careful, seemingly mundane details of his characters' lives. Perhaps that's what makes it so lifelike. His characters are very human, very ordinary and yet interesting. The main plot of Pastoral also seems simple: a romance between a young R.A.F. bomber pilot and a girl from the W.A.A.F. signalers on his post. Their initial attraction and friendship and the uncertain progress of their courtship is so honest and natural, and ultimately touching and romantic. But their relationship is also intricately intertwined with the routine and protocol of everyday life on an R.A.F. post, and the mental and emotional strain on the pilots flying bombing raids over Germany (raids depicted in a couple of riveting scenes in the book) and on the personnel who wait for them to return, and chalk up each night's casualties. I found it very hard to put down once I'd started, and finished it in a couple of sittings.
My only quibble would be some mild language throughout, some of a distinctly British variety—that's the funny thing about being an American reading a British novel; sometimes you're never quite sure if someone is swearing or not.
My only quibble would be some mild language throughout, some of a distinctly British variety—that's the funny thing about being an American reading a British novel; sometimes you're never quite sure if someone is swearing or not.
September 15, 2009
Though I much prefer A Town Like Alice and read it over every few years, this pastoral view of WWII has its own draw. You would think it would be about farming during the war, but more the healing effect of nature on those who must risk life to serve us. The romantic aspect touches deeply a part of human nature many of us have experienced. The idea that we fall in love at different times and some relationships are ruined before they even have a chance to begin. This one has a chance to heal in a very hopeful way.
December 28, 2021
I’m going through the books that I’ve read this year and I see that I didn’t write a review for this one. Sometimes I like a book so much and feel that my review won’t do it justice. And now months have gone by…
Let me say this; Nevil Shute is an engineer. He has that sort of mind. But this engineer likes to write love stories. He writes about technical things as well as he writes about love (and about decent, everyday human beings).
I read this one in print but also own the audio so will definitely re-read this and that will be a treat.
I adore Nevil Shute.
Let me say this; Nevil Shute is an engineer. He has that sort of mind. But this engineer likes to write love stories. He writes about technical things as well as he writes about love (and about decent, everyday human beings).
I read this one in print but also own the audio so will definitely re-read this and that will be a treat.
I adore Nevil Shute.
June 17, 2015
I gather no one reads Nevil Shute any more, which at first seems odd, given how obsessed we are with the Second World War as our national foundation myth. Maybe it's because myths are basically lies and these books are at times uncomfortably true. Anyway, bombing Germany, fishing, and falling in love: what more would you want from a novel?
June 12, 2014
This was a pleasant enough read, but it loses a star due to the outdated gender attitudes. Given that it was written 70 years ago this shouldn't come as a surprise, but nevertheless it's not a book I'd encourage my daughters to read, at least not until they are old enough to snort in scorn at some of the motivations.
November 2, 2024
This wasn’t altogether easy to get into; the language is quite different and full of slang and (for me) odd dialogue. One word I like I particular is “wizard” instead of “great”! I bought this book in a second hand bookstore in the north of Sweden, and the first owner, who wrote her very typically northern Swedish name in the book in the 40’s, didn’t get past the first ten pages, laboriously read with a dictionary…
But, once I got used to the language it was a sweet little book. Perhaps certain aspects of it appear a bit dubious today (if a girl turns you down, just keep going at it and she’ll end up liking you!), but I still enjoyed it. It’s a cute story with a sombre war backdrop. If you know the first thing about airplanes and the war I guess those pretty detailed parts of it will also be fascinating.
And the fishing! We must not forget about the fishing.
But, once I got used to the language it was a sweet little book. Perhaps certain aspects of it appear a bit dubious today (if a girl turns you down, just keep going at it and she’ll end up liking you!), but I still enjoyed it. It’s a cute story with a sombre war backdrop. If you know the first thing about airplanes and the war I guess those pretty detailed parts of it will also be fascinating.
And the fishing! We must not forget about the fishing.
November 12, 2021
Another lovely book by Nevil Shute. He’s fast becoming a favorite author.
His books start slow and sweet with not much happening but wait for, soon all hell breaks loose.
Beautiful prose, great characters and I learned so much about bomber pilots. I’d never thought about what goes into that particular job, what they do on their time off and how important their personal life is to their efficiency in the sky. And they are so young for the situation, the protagonist is 22 years old. Amazing. Highly recommend.
His books start slow and sweet with not much happening but wait for, soon all hell breaks loose.
Beautiful prose, great characters and I learned so much about bomber pilots. I’d never thought about what goes into that particular job, what they do on their time off and how important their personal life is to their efficiency in the sky. And they are so young for the situation, the protagonist is 22 years old. Amazing. Highly recommend.
July 17, 2024
This was tedious. No doubt an excellent book in its time, but now dated and long-winded. I gave up!
August 2, 2016
Full review at Smart Bitches, Trashy Books
Back when my mom was growing up and general practitioner doctors were the norm, people used to refer to having a family doctor. We don’t have a family doctor, but we do have a family author (as in, an author the family loves, not an author to whom we are related). All the women on my mom’s half of the family, and there are a ton of us, are obsessed with the writings of Nevil Shute. I don’t know that many Americans that stockpile Nevil Shute books like we do, but all you have to do to get a McGowan woman excited is say, “So…tell me about A Town Like Alice” and we just fall all over ourselves with enthusiasm.
One of Shute’s lesser-known books is Pastoral, a lovely romance between a British bomber pilot and a W.A.A.F. officer (Women’s Auxiliary Air Force). This is a book that is deceptively low on plot. The pilot (Peter) falls in love with the W.A.A.F. officer (Gervase) while stationed in Britain. She likes him, but she doesn’t believe that she is in love with him and she isn’t interested in a relationship that isn’t serious. However, she agrees to a trial courtship to see if her feelings of fondness might actually be something deeper.
There’s no sex in the book, although Peter and Gervase joke about it and neck quite a bit and get caught by an air commodore while they are making out during a picnic. If there’s anything funnier than a badass pilot acting like a teenager who just got busted by his mom I don’t know what it is.
There’s also not a lot of action – but when there is action, it’s absolutely terrifying. At one point Gervase is working the radio while Peter is on a mission and she has to excuse herself and have someone take over for a moment so that she can go outside and vomit. She’s neither pregnant nor sick – it’s just that tense. I felt queasy myself. Gervase, who is made of sterner stuff than I, just wipes off her mouth and gets back to work.
Despite that scene, the book is for the most part what it says it is (a pastoral). It’s a peaceful breath of happiness and loveliness and optimism in the middle of a terrifying time in history. Like Shute’s books A Town Like Alice and The Pied Piper, it’s also a celebration of people who are both utterly ordinary and utterly extraordinary in their kindness and heroism during extraordinary times. This is a great comfort read about a couple who are comfortable friends as well as enthusiastic lovers. Just be prepared to read a lot of scenes about fishing.
- Carrie S.
Back when my mom was growing up and general practitioner doctors were the norm, people used to refer to having a family doctor. We don’t have a family doctor, but we do have a family author (as in, an author the family loves, not an author to whom we are related). All the women on my mom’s half of the family, and there are a ton of us, are obsessed with the writings of Nevil Shute. I don’t know that many Americans that stockpile Nevil Shute books like we do, but all you have to do to get a McGowan woman excited is say, “So…tell me about A Town Like Alice” and we just fall all over ourselves with enthusiasm.
One of Shute’s lesser-known books is Pastoral, a lovely romance between a British bomber pilot and a W.A.A.F. officer (Women’s Auxiliary Air Force). This is a book that is deceptively low on plot. The pilot (Peter) falls in love with the W.A.A.F. officer (Gervase) while stationed in Britain. She likes him, but she doesn’t believe that she is in love with him and she isn’t interested in a relationship that isn’t serious. However, she agrees to a trial courtship to see if her feelings of fondness might actually be something deeper.
There’s no sex in the book, although Peter and Gervase joke about it and neck quite a bit and get caught by an air commodore while they are making out during a picnic. If there’s anything funnier than a badass pilot acting like a teenager who just got busted by his mom I don’t know what it is.
There’s also not a lot of action – but when there is action, it’s absolutely terrifying. At one point Gervase is working the radio while Peter is on a mission and she has to excuse herself and have someone take over for a moment so that she can go outside and vomit. She’s neither pregnant nor sick – it’s just that tense. I felt queasy myself. Gervase, who is made of sterner stuff than I, just wipes off her mouth and gets back to work.
Despite that scene, the book is for the most part what it says it is (a pastoral). It’s a peaceful breath of happiness and loveliness and optimism in the middle of a terrifying time in history. Like Shute’s books A Town Like Alice and The Pied Piper, it’s also a celebration of people who are both utterly ordinary and utterly extraordinary in their kindness and heroism during extraordinary times. This is a great comfort read about a couple who are comfortable friends as well as enthusiastic lovers. Just be prepared to read a lot of scenes about fishing.
- Carrie S.
October 15, 2011
Peter Marshall is a flight officer in the R.A.F. and Gervase Robertson is a signals officer in the W.A.A.F. during WWII. Both are stationed at Hartley Magna. Peter's work has him flying bomber missions over Germany. Gervase's job is to record the progress of the aircraft as they report back to the base during those missions. A romance between the two develops. For awhile, they can proceed with their work and not find the relationship interferring, but eventually it does, and decisions need to be made about how to proceed, as there is military protocol that needs to be followed.
Thoroughly enjoyed this. Felt as if I was right there in the setting and the time period. The action of the flights is fast paced and pulls you right in. I found myself pulling for crew on some of the more harrowing missions.
Thoroughly enjoyed this. Felt as if I was right there in the setting and the time period. The action of the flights is fast paced and pulls you right in. I found myself pulling for crew on some of the more harrowing missions.
August 23, 2013
Well, as usual the gender politics are a little disturbing ("she began to understand the responsibility of being an attractive woman"--really??) but also as usual I couldn't put it down and found myself missing it once I finished. Pretty much your standard Nevil Shute experience.
August 7, 2018
I think of Nevil Shute as an old-fashioned storyteller. His books aren't really very long. They have a lot of detail about characters' everyday lives. And many of his stories are set back in WW2 or just after. There's a leisurely kind of narration that is kinda different from a lot of today's books.
This is a story about a RAF pilot who falls in love with a WAAF Signal Officer who's stationed on the same base. He's certain almost right away that She is THE One; she's not quite so sure. She had other plans for her life. And right there is my biggest quibble with the book. Okay, other times, other manners, sure, but still...
There's a big dramatic event toward the end. I'll tell you honestly, I was so worried about what was happening, I had to put down my knitting and just listen for a while.
It's a good book. It's got romance, but it's subtle and gentle enough for my I-can't-really-abide-romance sensibilities. And there are a couple of small, subtle things that Shute does with other characters that tug your heartstrings too.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Frank Muller on Scribd. He is a very excellent narrator. I loved this book.
This is a story about a RAF pilot who falls in love with a WAAF Signal Officer who's stationed on the same base. He's certain almost right away that She is THE One; she's not quite so sure. She had other plans for her life. And right there is my biggest quibble with the book. Okay, other times, other manners, sure, but still...
There's a big dramatic event toward the end. I'll tell you honestly, I was so worried about what was happening, I had to put down my knitting and just listen for a while.
It's a good book. It's got romance, but it's subtle and gentle enough for my I-can't-really-abide-romance sensibilities. And there are a couple of small, subtle things that Shute does with other characters that tug your heartstrings too.
I listened to the audiobook narrated by Frank Muller on Scribd. He is a very excellent narrator. I loved this book.
April 7, 2024
Flight Lieutenant Peter Marshall is an RAF bomber pilot during World War II. He has flown 51 missions over Germany. He is 22 years old. Gervase Robinson is a Service Officer in the WAAF. She is 21.They meet one day, while Marshall is fishing. They see each other daily and when free go off base to fish or shop. Marshall asks for her hand in marriage. She declines.
This sends Marshall into a funk which puts his crew in danger; one of his crew is injured when returning to England. Marshall has made a navigational error. The Wing Commander and the Flight Commander learn about Gervase and decide to transfer her to a new station. She has other ideas.
Marshall is off on his 57th mission when they are attacked by fighter planes. His gunner shoots one out of the sky and it collides with the bomber. The flight to England is harrowing.
This was a slow story and not much happens. Gervase is thoughtful, clever and a bit confounding. Marshall is an emotional young man who skirts death each time he goes off on a mission. Shute does a great job of describing these two people who are fighting for their country.
This sends Marshall into a funk which puts his crew in danger; one of his crew is injured when returning to England. Marshall has made a navigational error. The Wing Commander and the Flight Commander learn about Gervase and decide to transfer her to a new station. She has other ideas.
Marshall is off on his 57th mission when they are attacked by fighter planes. His gunner shoots one out of the sky and it collides with the bomber. The flight to England is harrowing.
This was a slow story and not much happens. Gervase is thoughtful, clever and a bit confounding. Marshall is an emotional young man who skirts death each time he goes off on a mission. Shute does a great job of describing these two people who are fighting for their country.
September 9, 2022
Average middle of the road romance in 1944, during WW2 with 2 service members, one an airplane pilot making bombing missions and the other a service WAAF female. Very polite and detailed kindling of love with thoughts from both sides but with danger always lurking with the bombing missions (causing possible death).
The professional rules of conduct between their two military units is pronounced, and exacting to a degree of appropriateness is remarkable. (page 207 “I mean I’m going to report you to the adjutant for insubordination and in discipline.” - from the flight officer to the WAAF bringing tea up to her injured boyfriend in his bedroom with permission from another officer.) Also, in general the moments where the intense scrutiny of bomber mission groups, and each airplane’s personnel and needed psychological/mental health to performing the mission by the commanders shows moments of the military’s dealings.
I enjoyed it, the references to fishing and it’s equipment, technique, and even types of fish is a nice addition. Of note: the picturesque landscape is almost realistic, the sadness and urgency of continuing normal life is tender, and the sadness and realism of close family death is quietly portrayed.
A good 3 stars
The professional rules of conduct between their two military units is pronounced, and exacting to a degree of appropriateness is remarkable. (page 207 “I mean I’m going to report you to the adjutant for insubordination and in discipline.” - from the flight officer to the WAAF bringing tea up to her injured boyfriend in his bedroom with permission from another officer.) Also, in general the moments where the intense scrutiny of bomber mission groups, and each airplane’s personnel and needed psychological/mental health to performing the mission by the commanders shows moments of the military’s dealings.
I enjoyed it, the references to fishing and it’s equipment, technique, and even types of fish is a nice addition. Of note: the picturesque landscape is almost realistic, the sadness and urgency of continuing normal life is tender, and the sadness and realism of close family death is quietly portrayed.
A good 3 stars
May 2, 2021
Another easy entry in Shute's oeuvre of steady people & steady ideas. Steady results.
August 11, 2025
Beautiful love story but also a story for gear heads that are interested in airplane history. It takes place during WWII on an English airbase where few survive. An aviator fills his day with outdoor adventures and his nights are spent flying bombing runs. He meets a lovely WAC and falls for her. Nevil Shute has a way with writing about technical issues and love. Listened to it - excellent.
May 2, 2018
ტრაგედია ინგლისურად, ანუ რას ნიშნავს ჩაიში რძის არდამატება.
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