Carolyn Gossage Book order

At the outbreak of the Second World War, Prime Minister Winston Churchill created the SOE (Special Operations Executive) to "set Europe ablaze" as he said, by working with resistance groups in Nazi-occupied countries in Europeespecially in France. Count Robert De La Rochefoucauld's memoir of wartime service in the French Resistance and work with the British told of extraordinary exploits of courage and espionage. After receiving commando, explosives, and sabotage training in Britain, De La Rouchefoucald parachuted twice into occupied France to combat the Nazis. During his resistance work he was captured on two occasions and successfully escaped from his execution. He was also known for his eclectic use of tools of espionage and escape including explosives hidden in loaves of bread, a stolen Nazi limousine, a nun's habit, and a bicycle. His story is a remarkable account of ingenuity, endurance, and survival.

In April 1941, a passenger ship sailing from New York to Cape Town was attacked and sunk by a German raider. The passengers were pulled from the water and transported to Nazi-occupied France, where the majority were released. Among those left behind were seven Canadian women. This is the tale of the year they spent together in Germany.

The travel sketchbooks offer a unique glimpse into the adventures of a Victorian gentlewoman, showcasing her artistic talent and keen observations during her journeys. Through detailed illustrations and insightful commentary, readers experience the landscapes, cultures, and people she encountered. These sketches not only reflect her personal experiences but also provide historical context, highlighting the era's social norms and travel practices. The collection serves as both an artistic endeavor and a valuable document of a woman's perspective in a time of exploration.

Focusing on Canada's "forgotten women," this narrative highlights the contributions of female volunteers during the Second World War. It explores their diverse roles and sacrifices, shedding light on their experiences and the impact they made on the war effort, often overlooked in historical accounts. Through vivid storytelling, the book honors these women's resilience and dedication, illustrating their significant yet unrecognized place in Canadian history.