Books The Long Way Home: the perfect staycation summer read  by Fanny Blake (Author)

"The Long Way Home" by Fanny Blake is a novel set in the UK and 1950s Paris, spanning four generations of women and the secrets passed down through them. The story follows Isla, a 65-year-old grandmother who, upon her mother's death, finds herself left only an old painting while her sisters and aunt inherit the estate. Devastated and seeking answers, Isla embarks on a road trip across the UK with her reluctant 14-year-old granddaughter Charlie and her dog, aiming to uncover family secrets and understand her mother's rejection.

The narrative interweaves the present-day journey with flashbacks to 1954 Paris, revealing the life of Isla's mother and the origins of the family mysteries. The story explores themes of family bonds, intergenerational relationships, secrets, and reconciliation, highlighting the complicated but enduring connection between grandmother and granddaughter. The writing is noted for being realistic, compassionate, and well-structured, with praise for its dual timeline and character development.