A stunning epic novel of secrets, betrayal and passion, from 1933 to the 1960s 1933. Tessa and Frederica Nicolson enjoy one last idyllic summer at the beautiful Villa Millefiore, overlooking Florence. Four years later, Italy is a distant memory and Tessa is revelling in the glamour and excitement of modelling in London, until a passionate affair with married author Milo Rycroft leads to tragic consequences. Tessa returns to Florence, and, missing her sister desperately, Freddie, too, travels to Italy, where she is swept up in adventure, danger and romance, and makes a chance encounter that will change her life. With the outbreak of World War Two, Tessa and Freddie must fight for their own survival and happiness, while they wonder whether they will ever see each other again…
Dive into a world of secrets, betrayal, and enduring passion with Judith Lennox's captivating novel, *Catching the Tide*. Spanning from the sun-drenched shores of 1930s Italy to the tumultuous years of World War II and beyond, this epic saga follows the lives of sisters Tessa and Frederica Nicolson as they navigate love, loss, and the ever-shifting tides of fate. The story opens in 1933, at the idyllic Villa Millefiore, a haven overlooking the romantic city of Florence. For Tessa and Frederica, it's a summer of carefree joy, a snapshot of beauty before the world descends into chaos. Four years later, the memory of Italy is a bittersweet echo. Tessa finds herself in the vibrant heart of London, embracing the allure of a modeling career. However, her world is turned upside down by a passionate, yet perilous, affair with the married author Milo Rycroft, leading to consequences that will forever alter the course of her life. Haunted by loss and yearning for connection, Tessa returns to the familiar comfort of Florence. Meanwhile, Frederica, deeply missing her sister, embarks on her own journey to Italy. There, amidst the enchanting landscapes and simmering political tensions, she finds herself swept away by adventure, danger, and the promise of romance. A chance encounter sets her on a path that will irrevocably change her destiny. As the shadow of World War II descends upon Europe, Tessa and Frederica are thrust into a desperate fight for survival. Separated by circumstance and the ravages of war, they must summon their inner strength and resilience to navigate the treacherous landscape. Will they ever find their way back to each other? Will they ever find happiness amidst the turmoil? Judith Lennox masterfully weaves a rich tapestry of historical detail, emotional depth, and compelling characters. *Catching the Tide* is more than just a historical romance; it's a poignant exploration of sisterhood, the enduring power of love, and the indomitable spirit of women in the face of adversity. Readers who enjoyed Kate Morton's sweeping narratives or Santa Montefiore's tales of Italian passion will be utterly captivated by this unforgettable story. Lennox expertly captures the atmosphere of pre-war Italy and wartime London, drawing the reader into the sights, sounds, and emotions of the era. Get ready to lose yourself in a world of breathtaking scenery, unforgettable characters, and a story that will stay with you long after you turn the final page. *Catching the Tide* is a perfect escape for readers seeking a beautifully written, emotionally resonant, and thoroughly engaging historical novel.