Manderley Forever by Tatiana de Rosnay

This sensitive and evocative biography of the wonderful Daphne du Maurier is a must-read for fans of her novels. De Rosnay walked in her footsteps, talked to her descendants and reimagines her life in  this beautifully-written book. I could hardly put it down!

De Rosnay vividly describes the important places in Du Maurier's life, including beautiful and calm Hampstead where she grew up, romantic Paris and the dramatic cliffs and sailboats of Fowey in Cornwall. This is where she found Menabilly, the famous house in Rebecca, and the scenery and history which formed the background to most of her novels. The author also skillfully brings to life the people who helped to form her character, such as Gerald, her sparkling actor father who, unfortunately was unfaithful to his wife and descended into drunkenness.

This is a lovely book to read even though Du Maurier had much tragedy in her life. It is an excellent study of the famous writer.

I received this free ebook from Net Galley in return for an honest review.