The Measure of Gold by Sarah C. Patten {Book Review}

This is another NetGalley requested book I received, and I’m so happy that I was given the opportunity to ‘read‘ and review this book.

I received it in audiobook form which was fantastic as I could continue with the story at any given time without worrying about taking time away from any chores and errands.

This book is my January Book of the Month 2022 and it was well deserved. I cannot wait to read more of Sarah C. Patten’s books!

DISCLAIMER: This review could contain possible spoilers based on my opinions. All opinions and views are my own.

Book Review: The Measure of Gold by Sarah C. Patten #bookreview #sarahcpatten #historicalfictionbooks #booktwt #bookaddict #booktwitter
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Challenge Criteria: Historical Fiction
Originally published: 2021

Hours: 11h31m
Format: Audiobook

Plot:

France, 1940, and Germany has just invaded.

In Sweetwater, Tennessee, Penelope, an alchemist, receives a letter from her childhood friend, Naomie, begging her to come to France. Penelope, grieving the loss of her father, travels to Paris where she meets other alchemists, including Fulcanelli, Naomie’s brother, and his mysterious apprentice, Lucien.

Naomie isn’t there to meet her on her arrival, and Penelope is drawn into the world of alchemy, joining the Resistance to fight the Nazis. She trains as a spy and takes up space in Le Chambrement, brothel, disguised as a maid. She faces the dangerous of being discovered, realises that there are certain sacrifices to be made for those you care for and love.

How far can these sacrifices keep those people alive, as well as herself?

Thoughts:

There is a beautiful link woven between the magic of alchemy and love at the height of World War 2.

The first part of the book is about Penelope’s time with the alchemist group, working to defeat the Nazis. In the second, Penelope has to take on a dangerous and daring role, where she trains to join the Resistance and ends up working for them in a famous Parisian brothel, under a disguise. Penelope is every part a heroine; finding herself in difficult situations, making difficult decisions and sacrificing more than you would think one would.

There is so much suspense to be absorbed as the story moves along and you are left worrying about the safety and the outcome of the characters as much as they worry about themselves and each other. Penelope is on dangerous grounds all the time as a spy the Resistance and finds herself in situations between life and death.

The love interest between her and Lucien is mesmerising and you can’t help but hold on to the hope that all will work out between them, despite the uncertainty of the time they are in. The sacrifices that each character makes, especially for each other are gripping and equally heartbreaking.

There are many unique characters introduced to the readers, and scenes capturing the war’s devastation and the struggles that everyone faces, each unique yet connected to each other.

The poetic elements in the book give it a magical environment, playing on your emotions along with the realities of war and loss surrounding everything and everyone. The writing is lyrical and descriptive, allowing the story to flow smoothly.

The dialogues between the characters are written with meaning, and no unnecessary dialogue was added to keep the story going.

The ending was abrupt and left some unanswered questions. It also highlighted the idea that not all happy endings are the endings we expect.

A special shoutout to Elizabeth Cottle – narrator of the audiobook. She did an amazing job with bringing the story to life, keeping me hooked on every word. Her tone of voice was mesmerising and the different accents were on point. This lady has a great talent that needs more recognition.