A riveting story of redemption and retribution in a unique wartime setting by the author of the New York Times bestseller, The Girl from the Channel Islands.
Jersey 1945. In the immediate aftermath of Liberation from the Nazis, Jean Parris and her family wait anxiously for news of her deported father.
But now a different kind of war is unleashed – a war amongst the islanders themselves. And as Jean, now a young woman, begins to question everything, she soon discovers not only the truth about her family, but the full implication of her own deceptions.
Beyond Summerland is a page-turning story of ordinary people in extraordinary times, and a tale of long-buried family secrets. It explores suspicion and prejudice, female friendship, and the fictions we cling to when we cannot afford to let them go; it is also a story of survival and the dangers of finding oneself on the wrong side of history.
Buy a copy of Beyond Summerland here.
Read some great reviews from our Preview readers here:
I had previously enjoyed Jenny Lecoat’s The Girl From The Channel Islands, so I was looking forward to reading this one and it did not disappoint. This was a really interesting look at a part of the war story that often doesn’t get much attention, what happened after the war. The suspicion and anger that still lingered after the war against people suspected of being collaborators was understandable but would have been so hard for those accused (especially those falsely accused). I came to care a lot for Jean and Hazel and hoped they would be able to find their way out of the difficult circumstances they were in. Jenny Lecoat has written another great book and I will definitely read her next book too. Helen, VIC, 5 stars
Its June 1945, the end of German occupation on the Channel Islands, and everyone is celebrating Liberation Day. The end of 5 years of Nazi Occupation. But then there are the ones who are trying to find out the ones who helped the Nazis so that they could have a better life. Jean Parris is horrified to learn that her neighbour Hazel, reported her father, Phillip, to the Nazis for having a radio. He is taken and eventually dies in custody but that’s not the end for Jean, she needs to find out the truth. Jean tries to get closer to Hazel but in doing this. Hazel discovers Jeans hidden secret that could put her in prison. Will the truth come out and will Jean go to prison? A great read with a few twists and turns. Sue A, NSW, 5 stars
Beyond Summerland gives the reader an different viewpoint into the realities of the aftermath of the war in Paris. The effects of the war didn’t stop with liberation. People wanted answers as to why things happened the way they did. I enjoyed this book and the insights revealed. Angela, WA, 5 stars
I loved Beyond Summertime and was surprised to learn that Jersey had been occupied by the Nazis during the Second World War. Jean grew up under the occupation and now with Liberation everyone feels that life will change for the better and they will have no more worries but for Jean many hidden truths come to light and she rides on a rollercoaster of emotions as she holds fears for her beloved Father who was deported during the war but the more truths she finds out about her Father the more heartbroken she becomes and all this time she battles with the concerns of how to tell her family about her love for someone she knows they wont approve of. Jean battles between whats right and whats wrong while at the same time fighting for self preservation. I loved the dynamic between Jean and Hazel and how over time Jean became a much stronger woman with the help of someone she at first considered an enemy and through that strong bonds were formed. An awesome book to add to the TBR pile for the next rainy weekend. Annamaree, QLD, 5 stars
The Second World War has ended and the residents of the Channel Islands are coming to terms with their new reality having lived under German Nazi occupation for the duration of the war. For Jean Paris, this hopefully means the return of her father who was arrested for his possession of a radio eighteen months ago. For Hazel, it means dealing with the aftermath of Jean’s father’s arrest when the whole town assumes it was her who alerted the Nazi’s of the radio. In a place where secrets can keep you safe, they can also bring the end of the world and this is a place with more secrets than most. I really enjoyed this book. My first by Jenny Lecoat, this was an insightful story as to what it would have been like for the British isle under Nazi occupation. As secrets bring Jean and Hazel together, it’s also secrets which will tear them apart and I think this unlikely friendship was written so well. The characters are deep and well rounded and are defined by what they are hiding from the world. Liat, NSW, 5 stars
“Beyond Summerland” takes place in a vividly constructed realm where the distinctions between the actual world and the realm of fiction become indistinct. The narrative chronicles the protagonist’s odyssey, as they navigate through a multitude of obstacles and uncover profound revelations about their own identity and the environment in which they exist.The characters in the story are intricately crafted, having distinct qualities and backstories that enhance the richness of the plot. The development of the main character is especially captivating, demonstrating substantial progress and fortitude.The work delves into questions of identity, belonging, and evolution. Edwards explores the emotional and psychological aspects of her characters, providing readers with a deep and engaging encounter. Alison Edwards’ writing has a lyrical and engaging style. Her exceptional ability to describe vividly brings the scenes and characters to life, immersing the readers in the plot. The rhythm is skillfully maintained, effectively combining times of furious action with contemplative pauses.General Assessment”Beyond Summerland” is a gripping literary work that combines an entertaining narrative with insightful reflections on individual development and exploration. It is advisable for individuals who appreciate intricately crafted fantasy tales with profound emotional impact. Ariba, NSW, 5 stars
Jenny Lecoat follows The Girl from the Channel Islands with Beyond Summerland, a beautifully written wartime story. Family and history come together in this story of ordinary people with long forgotten secrets. In the aftermath of war and set in an island setting, Lecoat entwines a cast of characters coming to terms with love, suspicion and sacrifice. Written in a fast paced format that will have you licking your finger in anticipation of turning the page, Beyond Summerland takes the reader on a journey of finding a place in history. A book you simply cannot put down and, once finished, leave you wanting for Jenny Lecoat’s next literary offering. Highly Recommended! Peter, NSW, 5 stars
I’m not sure why but I am finding myself drawn to books about WWII more and more these days. Beyond Summerland is the first book that I have read by Jenny Lecoat, and I will certainly be looking forward to reading more from her. I liked how this story was set around liberation in 1945 but readers were given glimpses into what life was like for the people of Jersey during occupation, what they endured and the extremes they went to just to survive. There are so many secrets and lies within Jean’s family, some which were certainly unexpected but made sense when put together with other snippets of information. Jenny has developed her characters well. At first, I felt immense dislike for Hazel, but as the story progressed, I came to really care for her. And dear young Jean, losing her father under such dreadful circumstances and then having to contend with the secrets and lies that are slowly revealed. This book grabbed my attention from the start and was a pleasure to read. Maree, QLD, 5 stars
My great grandfather migrated from Jersey to Tasmania in 1857, so I have a particular interest in this story set on Jersey and it did not disappoint. The story is full of historical detail and sets the scene of the aftermath of the German Occupation for the 5 years of World War 2. This was such an interesting backdrop for a very well-written story of family secrets, friendships and betrayals that comes to a riveting climax towards the end of the novel as Jean uncovers the lies and deceptions that those closest to her have perpetuated during the war. As the truth about her father’s arrest is uncovered and the true nature of his activities becomes known, Jean is unsure who to believe but she is carrying out a deception of her own, that she reveals to Hazel, who is wrongly believed by her family to have been a collaborator. The story has so many twists and turns before reaching its calmer ending in 1972. The novel is very well written and is engrossing in its historical detail of Jersey in the aftermath and fallout of German occupation. I loved this author’s style of writing as we followed Jean’s journey from a naive young woman to a mature woman capable of steering her own ship and gaining employment as many women did after World War 2. I loved the time and place of this book which were very clearly portrayed and gave a good understanding of a little known era on Jersey. I will be on the alert for future books by Jenny Lecoat. Highly recommended! Robyn, QLD, 5 stars
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book, it drew me in right from the start. The story is set at the end of German occupation on the Channel Islands and focuses on the unlikely friendship that developed between Jean and Hazel. I was hooked and couldn’t put it down! Beyond Summerland is a beautifully written novel that sheds light on the lesser known story of wartime history within the British Isles. I will definitely be reading more from this author. Gina, SA, 5 stars
Set on the channel island of Jersey following liberation from Germany’s occupation, the islanders celebrate joyously. However, underneath the cheers are growing resentment and the need for retribution amongst those enduring painful memories & experiences of the after effects of occupation under German law. Jean and her family have suffered the loss of one of their own and suspicious minds plot to find the perpetrator of the betrayal with devastating results. Befriended by an unlikely source Jean finds solace in her new and only friendship and opens up about her love affair with a German soldier. Consequences are severe and family secrets are revealed along the way. A must read of a tragic story of love, hope & betrayal on the beautiful island of Jersey. Wendy, SA, 5 stars
War time books are fast becoming my favorite and Beyond Summerland was an exceptional read. I got straight into it and loved it. 1945, Liberation should have been a happy time for Jean and her family but instead secrets were uncovered that changed their lives forever. Jean’s father had died in prison and the family was determined to uncover who had told the Germans about his wireless that placed him there in the first place. That’s where it all began, the secrets, lies and deceptions. The characters were portrayed well and you felt like you really knew them. I highly recommend this book and will be looking forward to many more from Jenny Lecoat. Renee, QLD, 5 stars
I loved this book. It was beautifully written and the story and themes surrounding love, honestly and strength were thought-provoking. Although, it was historical fiction, it was a story about this time I was unaware of and felt I learnt so much about this part of history during the Second World War. A wonderful and thoroughly enjoyable read. Phoebe, VIC, 5 stars
I started reading this thinking it was just another novel telling another story about the History of World War 2. I was taken in very quickly with this story set in an area about which I know very little. It is set on the island of Jersey (which the German soldiers thought was named Summerland) and after the Liberation of the island. It graphically tells the story of the betrayal of normal residents of the island by their neighbours and even family members. It highlights the unfair treatment of residents who were suspected of being collaborators of the Germans based purely on rumour and unsubstantiated accusations. We follow the story of Jean as she grapples with the upheaval of her family and the realisation her father was not the wonderful man she believed him to be. We also meet Hazel, accused of betraying Jean’s father and the hopelessness of her life when she couldn’t prove her innocence, and the unlikely friendship that developed between these two.. An enjoyable read for the fans of this era and genre. Sue, WA, 5 stars
What a pleasure it was to read this by a new author for me. I am very interested in the occupation of the Channel Islands a terrible part of history Interesting to read about the struggles the islanders had not only with the Germans but with the other islanders The conclusion was just perfect I will recommend this book to others who enjoy reading Pat, QLD, 5 stars
Beyond Summerland was an amazing book that followed friendship, love and survival. I loved reading this book ! Nishka, NSW, 4 stars
I found the historical aspect of this novel fascinating as I knew little of the Nazi occupation of the Jersey Islands. What a difficult time the populous endured during and after the war. The story of the very naïve Jean and her family (and their secrets) was engaging, though I found the endless family complications a little wearing and maybe unbelievable. The ending was satisfying and an interesting insight into how their lives evolved well after the war. This was an easy read and well written but occasionally a little long winded. I am happy to recommend this book. Kathryn, QLD, 4 stars
Many books both fiction and nonfiction have been set in the Channel Islands during the German occupation in WWII. ‘Beyond Summerland’ by Jenny Lecoat focusses on the aftermath of those traumatic years. Former German soldiers are now prisoners tasked with removing fortifications built during the occupation. The people of Jersey are free but their joy on liberation is tempered with ongoing resentment of the British government’s perceived abandonment of the islands to Germany. Evacuees are returning to homes looted and demolished by those who remained as basic necessities dwindled. Families are mourning relatives who had been accused of crimes against Germany and sentenced to prisons and internment camps in Europe and have perished under horrific circumstances. Resentment against informants and collaborators is high especially when the government appears to be loath to take action and vigilante groups begin to mete out harsh justice. This is the backdrop to the love story at the heart of ‘Beyond Summerland’. The author was born in Jersey and her parents were involved in resistance activities during the war so the story has a very personal feel. Recommended for those who enjoy historical fiction. Dianne, QLD, 4 stars
The story is set on the island of Jersey, just after the end of the Second World War. Jean Paris lives with her mother and they are hoping that her father, who was arrested and deported during the nazi occupation, will soon be released. However they learn that he died in prison. Suspicion and accusations are rife as the islanders try to return to normal life and are very mistrustful of anyone who collaborated with the Germans. Everyone has secrets and these lead to uneasy alliances. A very interesting book as I previously had no idea about how the people of the channel island suffered under nazi occupation. An enjoyable read. Denise, QLD, 4 stars
I had no idea about the occupation of Jersey by the Nazis in WWII so was intrigued by the premise. This book was even more interesting as it is set in the aftermath of the war when everything is supposedly returning to normal. Needless to say, five years of occupation has lead to some trying times and unpleasantness and there are significant repercussions. I liked the way the backstory of those years was revealed slowly and organically, leading the reader to re-examine some earlier scenes. I felt bad for the two main characters as they really had nobody to turn to or lean on, the Jersey Islanders being a judgemental lot and their families being even worse. It was a very stressful book to read which made it extremely entertaining but I was glad when it was over so I could breathe properly again! Richard, VIC, 4 stars
“Beyond Summerland” by Jenny Lecoat is a poignant novel that effortlessly blends a well-written narrative with ease of readability. Set against the backdrop of the aftermath of war, Lecoat beautifully captures the futility and heartbreak of conflict through compelling characters and evocative storytelling. The story lingers long after you’ve turned the last page, thanks to Lecoat’s skillful storytelling and rich character development. Her portrayal of wartime Jersey feels vivid and authentic, offering a compelling glimpse into a lesser-known aspect of World War II. If you enjoy historical fiction, particularly stories of courage and resilience in the face of adversity, this book is a must-read. Carly, NSW, 4 stars
I loved how this story explored the complex aftermath of the war from the perspective of the citizens of Jersey in the Channel Islands. It is not just a war story. The strain on relationships between people, banded together by circumstances and location, who were just doing what was necessary to survive, had ramifications that were destructive as well as uniting. Lecoat has used her personal knowledge to provide a fascinating and transportive backdrop to this story. This is well paced and weaves together interesting characters living in compelling circumstances. Tundra, ACT, 4 stars
An enthralling story of mystery, intrigue, friendship and family that kept my interest to the end. The characters in the story are well defined, as was the location, and it is these that added a real element to what I was reading. I really enjoyed the way the twists and turns of the story kept me guessing, having my suspicions switched as the story progressed. I’d think I’d worked it all out, and then the next chapter would send me back to my drawing board. I also enjoyed learning more about Jersey. I hadn’t realised the extent of German occupation, nor the effect this had on the people of time time. This was a great read and one that has obviously been written with research and love, it’s definitely one I’ll share. Jodie, WA, 4 stars
How many secrets and lies can one family have festering in its midst? War stories bring out both the best and worst in the characters. Jean and Hazel, the main characters in this story, display both. They live in very tense, confusing times and are deeply wounded by people who profess to care. The central question of this narrative is : “If telling the truth hurts those we love, is it the right thing to do?” Several key moments in the story will resonate with the reader long after the final page is turned. Highly recommended for those who love a good moral dilemma. Heidi, VIC, 4 stars
As well as getting an understanding of what life was like on Jersey during WW2, we are immersed into the lives of everyday people trying to recover from their Island bring occupied by the Germans. Beautifully written, the characters are real and you feel their pain and a hope for a better future as they grab what they can to help make sense of their futures. Christina, NSW, 4 stars
A horribly vivid portrayal of life on the island of jersey after the liberation from the nazis in 1945. Vengeance against suspected collaborators takes many forms ranging from signs painted on windows in the night to arson attacks and death! The townspeople deliver their own form of anger just as brutal as any act during the war by their enemies. But 2 women from different backgrounds fight and struggle to stay alive, stay free, and see some hope in the future. I was totally hit in the face by the terrible injustices perpetrated by the islanders and all the myriad secrets kept by just about everyone in the book. Very compelling story!! Kristy, NSW, 4 stars
A amazing story of life after liberation in Jersey. Learning of her father’s cruel death in custody, she begins her own investigation into how this could happen. There is question of a collaborator ? It is a story that takes you into the life of post war judgments. Also there is love. But with a German soldier ? The life of two women-Jean who questioned the truth of her father’s incarceration & then Nancy who played a part in the arrest. Or did she ? Was she the collaborator ? A page turner – loved it ! Annie, NSW, 4 stars
This was a really interesting read that I didn’t expect to enjoy as much as I did. It’s set on the island of Jersey just after the end of WWII. The island had been occupied by the Nazis for the previous five years and now, postwar, there are emerging tensions among the people over collaboration and informants, leading to suspicion and violence. The main character is Jean, a young woman whose family secrets are beginning to surface including Jean’s own. Another woman, Hazel, is suspected by Jean’s mother and uncle of being the informant that sent Jean’s father to jail. This book became harder and harder to put down. A great read. Janelle, NSW, 4 stars
I do love a historical fiction and Jenny Lecoat did not disappoint! The descriptive prose made for a beautiful read of a topic not often written about – what happens after the end of Occupation. This book was full of surprises and I devoured it. If you enjoyed reading The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society you will love reading Beyond Summerland. Suzanne, NSW, 4 stars
I did enjoy reading this book, and it kept me interested to the last sentence. Set at the end of WW2 on Jersey, the British occupied island in the Channel Islands. Jean is a young naive girl who lives with her family under German rule with all the deprivations. Everyone is suffering the lack of resources. Of course in these circumstances the powerful and wealthy have a better life but this causes bribery, corruption and hypocrisy. Jean who is quiet, shy and quietly invisible has to grow up very quickly. Family members are no longer who she believed and she overhears information after Her father was arrested for keeping a secret radio and there was no proof of who reported him. Because of rumours one woman was blamed and ostracised. All is not what it appears. Jean eventually learns who to trust and to make a life for herself. Everyone has a secret to hide including Jean and therefore vulnerable. Very dangerous and difficult times. Gloria, SA, 4 stars
Although the war was officially over, its shadows lingered with rumours, suspicions, and the pervasive hatred of collaborators. But could anyone be truly innocent, given the desperate measures the islanders had to take to survive? Set in the aftermath of the liberation of Jersey, which endured five years of German occupation during WWII, Beyond Summerland is a historical fiction, family drama, coming of age tale, with a twist of mystery. And I absolutely loved it! I connected with both main characters, Jean and Hazel. I felt their losses and the injustices inflicted upon them which, consequently, made me want to throttle several other characters! I had not read Jenny Lecoat before but having read this, her debut novel The Girl from the Channel Islands has moved to the top of my ‘to read’ list. Kylie, VIC, 4 stars
Most of us are lucky enough not to be able to imagine what it is like to have war take over our lives and our town. The fear and what we do to protect our families and ourselves. This story explores the secrets of war survival and how these secrets can explode in families. Set on the Channel Island of Jersey, the only British territory to be occupied by the Nazis in WW2. I loved this story with its twists and turns of suspicion and revenge, kept me reading and surprised me with the ending! Sallie, QLD, 4 stars
Beyond Summerland is set in post war Jersey, after they were liberated from German Occupation. This was actually something that I was pretty ignorant about – that Jersey was occupied and therefore were liberated and the aftermath of that. It was therefore interesting learning about this historical event through the eyes of Jean and Hazel, and getting a glimpse of the repercussions of breaking the rules under occupation, informing and collaborating, and the resulting tension that now exists in daily life. Even though people generally were just doing what was necessary to survive. Nevertheless it was a hard read for me, I felt the story was slow and the chapters long. I also found it difficult to follow the storyline of each woman at times. Yet I did enjoy it overall, it just wasn’t as fast paced and easy a read as I was hoping for. Laura, NSW, 3 stars
A roller-coaster of book that is set in 1945 in Jersey (the island) Jean growing up doesn’t believe everything she knows is how it’s supposed to be after the liberation from the Germans. A book that will take you through emotions which show friendship, love, courage and survival. Mary, VIC, 3 stars
Beyond Summerland was a well written book. I thought it was great to see a book relating to post war, to see a different side of the story, rather than just during the war. Gave the reader a different perspective which was good. I think those that enjoy war books will really like this story and how it unfolds along the way. Katrina, TAS, 3 stars
The setting of the novel is the island of Jersey at the end of World War II, in the aftermath of the German occupancy. It centres around Jean Parris, who, with her mother, is waiting for news of her father who was deported for crimes of which Jean has no knowledge. Government officials arrive from London to investigate reports of collaboration by islanders with the Germans. As the story progresses Jean learns the secrets of many of the islanders including some dark secrets of her own family. She also has to face a deep secret of her own and deal with the consequences of its revelation. While the storyline was an interesting one, the telling was not as gripping as it could have been and the characters were somewhat flat and not particularly endearing. Elva, QLD, 3 stars
Beyond Summerland by author Jenny Lecoat can be describe as being both a historical and a domestic fiction novel. While historical fiction isn’t my preferred genre this was an engaging read from begining to end. Once the war is over there are many secrets and lies to be uncovered and nineteen year old Jean Parris is on a mission to discover the truth about her father challenges what beliefs she initially had about not only her father, but her home and most importantly – herself. Catherine, NSW, 3 stars
Beyond Summerland is a historical fiction mystery. Set in 1945, a great time for historical fiction. Islands and mystery. There are secrets hidden in the story that Jean needs to uncover. I should say, though, that Jean does uncover because as I read this, I did not feel that there was a pressing need to discover the secrets and that is probably the main problem with this story, There were so many little hints at secrets and yet for some reason – I can’t put my finger on it – there did not feel an urgency to know the answers. There were some lovely scenes between characters that well-depicted the island life and I felt these gave me a real picture of the setting and time and put me “in the moment”. When I read those, I loved reading this and being with the characters. However the story did seem longer than it needed to be and with the strong themes of intrigue, mystery, secrets and so on I was expecting to feel myself much more carried away and really desperately needing to find this out and yet it’s a far more gentle book. Some may consider that a very good thing. Rebecca, NSW, 3 stars
This novel is a refreshing take on WWII stories. Not many focus on the aftermath of the war and Occupation, which makes this book stand out. The story weaves emotion and suspense, showcasing the strength it takes to rebuild ones life and face the secrets contained within. Alexandra, TAS, 3 stars
I’ve got to be honest with this one, I tried hard, really hard but it just wasn’t for me. I wanted to love it. The main character Jean sounds so endearing and her family’s story compelling but I just sadly could not get into this book. In no ways a slight on the writing or a fault of the talented author, on reflection I just think historical fiction is just not for me. Rachel, VIC, 2 stars
Set in Jersey in 1945 just after liberation from the Germans, the story focuses around the Parris family – 14 year old Jean and her mother Violet. Following the arrest of Jeans father, by the Nazis two years earlier, the Parris family become convinced that a resident in the upstairs flat next to his shop was the person who reported him, even though it couldn’t be proven. The family was intent on justice and with the arrival of Jean’s Uncle, who had left for the UK before the occupation, emotions start to escalate. Unfortunately, I found this a hard book to pick up and read. It was very slow, drawn out and, at times, even boring. It took a long time to really engage not only with the characters but the story itself. In saying that, the last 50 pages brought the story together but, after 260 pages it was just too late for me. In summary this is a story of betrayal, forbidden love, heartbreak and family dysfunction but it just didn’t hit the mark for me. Diane, SA, 2 stars
Leave a Reply