"A fascinating foray into the complications of colour & gender in 18th Century France"

• ASIN: ‎ B0B8FRDLRP
• Publisher: ‎ Gilded Orange Books (1 Sept. 2022)
• Language: ‎ English
• Print length: ‎ 73 pages
• Genre: Historical French Fiction 

The BookViral Review:

Patti Flinn brings us a fascinating foray into the complications of colour and gender in 18th  Century France in ‘Veronique’s Journey’. This unique novella tracks the coming of age of a young black girl in a small town, who is buffeted by parental expectations and societal norms.

Bringing into sharp relief rarely addressed social commentary regarding black individuals in Europe throughout history, Flinn boldly yet sensitively tackles the historical discrimination associated with the acceptance of people of colour into high society and higher-class employment.

As her father seeks a suitable husband, Veronique’s’ own thoughts lay far away from his wishes as she sees the reality of married life as an unexciting prospect, largely due to the disregard the husbands of her childhood friends show for them. Disappointingly, this proves true for her too, as she is dismayed to find that her eminently suitable suitor, Hubert, a man of colour himself, displays a cruel and judgemental attitude during their courtship despite her many attributes.

When tragedy strikes, Veronique is forced to think carefully about fairness and equity in society, as she uses her experience to build inner strength and finds an unlikely ally in Noblewoman Martin, her new employer, who creates a conundrum for Veronique as she is torn between duty and her heart.

Flinn crafts protagonist Veronique beautifully as she confidently conveys both her inner turmoil and her straightforward and clear-thinking conclusions. Readers will love to hate the obnoxious Hubert, who represents the worst of self-made men, as our skin crawls with Veronique’s at the thought of union.

An interesting and absorbing parallel introduction to a new and exciting historical fiction novel set in Louveciennes, ‘Veronique’s Journey’ is recommended for all who love a bit of sassy with their sweet.