Where the Sea Lavender Grows by Kitty Johnson was a book I picked from Amazon’s first reads. I have seen the plants known as Sea Lavender and found them pretty, so I was enticed to read this novel. I had not heard of Kitty Johnson as an author, but will gladly read another book by her. The book takes place mostly in North Norfolk, England, near the marshes by the sea.
Lilias Carter-Brown’s home was Marsh House, and Elise (our main character) has been hired to restore the painting and art work. For Elise, it is a chance to stay away from her home and husband. She is struggling with her grief after losing her son Charlie to a long illness. Elise feels a connection to the house and to the original artist.
Lilias Carter-Brown’s story is told in a dual time line with Elise. Her story focuses on her time during WWII and the refugee David who stays with them. Lilias lives with her sister in Marsh House, as the war continues she begins painting on the walls of the House. She also becomes quite connected to David and his father Harry.
The dual time line allows the reader to draw conclusions and make inferences about Lilias and Elise. The story grabs you and the connections to Lilias and Elise allows the reader to root for them and to be surprised at some of the happenings. The book is a wonderful story that really tugs at your heart while allowing you to enjoy the story. Where the Sea Lavender Grows by Kitty Johnson was a really good read!
