Survivor - Lesley Pearse (Book)

Title: Survivor

Author: Lesley Pearse

Publisher: Michael Joseph (UK); Dutton (US)

Publication Date: April 1, 2014

Category: Historical Fiction / World War II

Survivor is the third installment in Lesley Pearse’s Belle trilogy, following Belle and The Promise. Set against the backdrop of World War II, the novel follows Mariette Carrera, a headstrong 17-year-old from a small town in New Zealand. To escape local gossip and her own impulsive behavior, Mariette’s parents send her to England aboard the SS Rimutaka. In London, she becomes entangled in the glamorous social scene, but the outbreak of war forces her to confront the harsh realities of life during the Blitz.

As the war intensifies, Mariette’s journey takes her from London to the French countryside, where she becomes involved in resistance efforts, including smuggling people out of occupied France. Throughout her experiences, she evolves from a self-centered young woman into a courageous and selfless individual, embodying the essence of a true survivor.

The novel has been praised for its vivid portrayal of wartime Britain and the resilience of its characters. Readers have lauded Pearse’s ability to weave historical events with personal stories, creating a compelling narrative that is both heart-wrenching and inspiring.