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Struggling to Survive
The Witch of the Breton Woods follows a woman who is part of the French Resistance who gives aid to an American soldier only to discover she has been betrayed and reported to the leader of a paramilitary organization affiliated with the Germans. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I love the region of Brittany and discovered that there were approximately 35,000 members of the French Resistance in this area of northern France during World War II. I also learned that many of the Allied planes flying American paratroopers into Normandy for the D Day landing were plagued by severe thunderstorms, gale force winds, and German 88mm antiaircraft flak artillery guns. I decided to write a novel where a young healer–a member of the French Resistance, struggling to survive under the Nazi Occupation of France– finds a critically injured soldier. She hides him from the Nazis and la Milice–the French paramilitary organization that collaborated with the Germans and betrayed their own countrymen.
How much research did you undertake for this book to ensure the accuracy of the historical aspects, and how much time did it take to put it all together?
I did extensive research! In selecting the regiment for my American paratrooper protagonist, I chose a division of parachute infantrymen, researching their military orders, uniforms, gear, insignia, obstacles encountered, and adaptive strategies undertaken once they were dropped into Normandy and forged their way into Brittany. I researched Operation Cobra, Operation Neptune, the building of Hitler’s Atlantic Wall, the forced labor camps for Frenchmen under the Third Reich, the Battle of Brittany, and the specific details of the Battle of Saint-Malo, which is where my story culminates. I also researched the ranking of SS Officers, German tanks and artillery, and the Russian Cossack soldiers who were recruited by the Nazis to hunt down members of the French Resistance.
Do you have a favorite scene from your novel? One that was especially enjoyable to write?
One of the most memorable scenes was when Yvette sought “retribution.” I won’t say any more so as to not spoil the suspense for my readers.
What is the next book you are working on, and when will it be available?
I am currently writing Dragon of Denmark, book 1 of a Viking trilogy set in 10th century Normandy. It takes place during the time of Richard the Fearless, the Viking Duke of Normandy, and Harald Bluetooth, the Viking King of Denmark and Norway. I’m integrating historical fiction, Norse mythology, paranormal fantasy, and Viking historical romance into an epic trilogy!
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The Witch of the Breton Woods
In The Witch of Breton Woods, Jennifer Ivy Walker transports readers to the closing days of World War II, weaving a tale of resilience, danger, and unexpected romance. The novel follows Yvette, who, despite living alone in the Breton woods, becomes a crucial part of the French resistance led by her brother, les Loups’ leader. With her family’s brutal death at the hands of the Nazis fueling her resolve, Yvette refuses to let the war be confined to the front lines. Her resolve intensifies when she finds herself tending to a handsome American soldier whose plane has been shot down, making the conflict deeply personal as the Allies advance towards Normandy and the Nazis grow increasingly desperate.
Walker masterfully blends the serene beauty of the French countryside with the ever-present threat of the Nazi regime, creating a subtly unnerving atmosphere even in seemingly idyllic settings. The tension escalates when Yvette decides to shelter the injured American soldier, heightening the stakes and adding layers to the narrative. Despite the palpable tension, the novel skillfully manages to maintain a sense of hope and resilience for Yvette, les Loups, and their allies. Each crisis presents a timely and resourceful solution, keeping the story focused on the anticipation of the next challenge rather than dwelling on immediate danger. This approach allows the antagonists to cast a looming shadow over the narrative, adding a suspenseful undercurrent that enhances the readers’ engagement without overwhelming them with despair.
While the romance between Yvette and the American soldier is a central theme, I feel it occasionally overshadows other aspects of the story. The predictable nature of their relationship and the extensive focus on their romance detract somewhat from Yvette’s otherwise compelling character. Her journey from a strong, resourceful woman into a romantic plot device feels like a missed opportunity to explore her rich background and the fascinating dynamics of the resistance movement.
The novel excels in showcasing Yvette’s ingenuity and survival skills. Her ability to barter, grow, and create resources not only for herself but also for les Loups highlights her determination and cleverness. The resistance efforts depicted in the story are captivating, and readers may find themselves wishing for a deeper dive into these elements.
The Witch of Breton Woods captivates with its atmospheric setting and the intriguing premise of a solitary woman’s contribution to the resistance. The novel’s strengths lie in Yvette’s resilience and the tension that permeates her world. Walker offers a blend of historical intrigue and personal struggle, making it an engaging read for those interested in the complexities of war and the unexpected paths of love and survival.
Pages: 184 | ASIN : B0D3MDHMJ2
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