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400
Novel • Fiction
France • Contemporary
2018
Adult
18+ years
In Fresh Water for Flowers by Valérie Perrin, Violette Trenet navigates her complex relationship with Philippe Toussaint, her grief after the tragic death of their daughter Léonine, and the unraveling mystery of the circumstances behind it. As she rebuilds her life working at a cemetery, Violette forms meaningful connections and eventually finds new love with Julien Seul, a police chief seeking closure from his own family secrets.
Melancholic
Contemplative
Bittersweet
Mysterious
Heartwarming
97,967 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Valérie Perrin's Fresh Water for Flowers is lauded for its lyrical prose and deep exploration of life and death, resonating with readers through its poignant character development. However, some find its pacing slow and the extensive interwoven subplots occasionally confusing. Overall, it's a well-crafted novel celebrating resilience and human connection.
Readers who appreciate evocative storytelling, rich character development, and themes of love and loss will enjoy Fresh Water for Flowers by Valérie Perrin. Fans of Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale and Jojo Moyes’s Me Before You will find similar emotional depth and poignant narrative.
97,967 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Philippe Toussaint
Philippe is deeply intertwined with Violette's early life. Initially seen only through Violette's eyes, he is portrayed as sensual yet emotionally detached, taking advantage of Violette’s need to belong. He comes from a privileged background with parents who ignored his flaws, resulting in his cold view of others.
The Gravediggers (Nono, Elvis, and Gaston)
Nono, Elvis, and Gaston are the cemetery's gravediggers who form a crucial support network for Violette. Each has distinct characteristics: Elvis is devoted to the singer Elvis Presley, Gaston is clumsy, and Nono is optimistic with a closer friendship with Violette. They help create a sense of belonging for her in the cemetery’s community.
Julien Seul
Julien is a police chief who becomes a significant, positive figure in Violette’s life. He brings a mystery involving his late mother's wishes that draws him to the cemetery. His respectful and caring approach to Violette helps her find a new perspective on love and relationships.
Sasha
Sasha appears later in the novel and plays a pivotal role in Violette's transformation. He is a cemetery inhabitant who helps Violette find a new path through his garden and friendship. Having experienced his own losses, he supports Violette’s healing process and shares his learned insights on seeking happiness.
400
Novel • Fiction
France • Contemporary
2018
Adult
18+ years
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