This looks interesting, about a period in the life of the endlessly fascinating Ernest Hemingway. I assume this is a fictionalised story about his menage-a-trois in 1926 South of France.

(29/05/22) I haven’t knowingly read a ‘Richard & Judy’ recommendation before, but appreciated the author Q&A and some background on her research and the writing process. Although this is fiction I will take it as factual in respect of Hemingway, his wives and mistresses, and some of the other biographical details. I love the detail and emotion that Naomi Wood has been able to intuit, a clever merging of genres. It is a great device to focus on the 4 “Mrs. Hemingways” (taking over the 1st person narrative in turn), with Earnest/Nesto/Papa performing a secondary role, albeit as a larger-than-life figure. He is variously demanding, child-like, egotistical, feckless (a mean drunk), cruel, disloyal, selfish - I could go on - but he is much loved by strong independent women Hadley, Pauline ‘Fife’, Martha, & Mary. Why is this, and why do they put up with it? We see in forensic detail how each wife is replaced, and their respective relationships with new mistresses and past wife/wives. It’s hard to understand unless you were there in the times and places (Cuba, South of France, Paris, Madrid & London, various war zones, the roaring twenties etc.), and in his undoubted thrall.

It’s a unique biography and a great study of love in different forms, personified by each wife; sometimes jealous and controlling, accepting of bad behaviour, raging, forgiving, and nurturing.

The first batch of books - not all all registered - looking for some shelf space in The Cross Keys new 'crossing zone.

Update Sorry I released this too soon, the Cross Keys is not happy to have books ... I forget the daft list of reasons, but basically they're not book-friendly. I can send this to you (pm me) or I'll look for another place in Chester for a new crossing zone :)

A new release location but an existing book shelf, well worth a visit for book crossing and/or beer, food, socials ... !