Cartes Postales from Greece is the second novel I’ve read by Victoria Hislop. But then, I’m not entirely sure you can call my most recent escape a novel. It’s more of a collection of stories tied together by a lovesick author and a young woman stuck in a rut.
What is Cartes Postales from Greece about?
Ellie came to London with dreams of a life in publishing but three years on she’s still stuck selling ad space for a trade magazine. The only thing that brightens her day are the cartes postales from Greece that arrive in her mailbox, addressed to a S. Ibbotson.
As the weeks go by Ellie’s desire to visit Greece grows and on the morning she’s running late for the airport she grabs a parcel. While enjoying her holiday in Nafplio so we step into the pages of A’s journal to discover a modern-day odyssey of a man trying to mend his broken heart.
Cartes Postales from Greece is an ambitious undertaking. It’s a collection of stories recounted to A as he journeys across the country from mid-Sept to July. But these tales are not the picture-perfect retellings of summer holidays spent on the beach. They delve into the darker side of Greece, its turbulent past and present, its economic troubles, public discontent, family obligations and longing. But throughout is fierce Greek pride, love and hope.
What was the verdict?
I wasn’t sure of what to expect from Cartes Postales from Greece having heard mixed reviews. However, I thoroughly enjoyed this alternative view of a fascinating country and its people. It’s a thumbs up from me.