Picking up years after the first book, 'L'Été' (Summer) finds Annette Rivière navigating a completely different season of life. She's a widow and a single mother, wholly dedicated to raising her young son, Sylvain, in Paris. The story follows her daily struggles—financial worries, social judgment, and the exhausting work of parenting alone. But it's also about the quiet moments. We see her fierce love for Sylvain clash with her need to protect her own inner world, the 'enchanted soul' that gives the series its name. It's less about dramatic events and more about the slow, persistent pressure of building a meaningful life against the grain.

Why You Should Read It

Rolland writes about motherhood with a startling honesty that feels modern. Annette isn't a saint; she's often tired, frustrated, and torn. Her love for Sylvain is absolute, but it doesn't erase her own identity. Reading this is like having a long, deep conversation with a friend who's been through it. You get the real talk—the joy, the fear, the loneliness, and the small victories. It’s a character study that makes you think about the choices we make for family and the pieces of ourselves we fight to preserve.

Final Verdict

This is for you if you love character-driven stories that sit with you long after you finish the last page. It’s perfect for anyone interested in early 20th-century European life, or stories about complex, resilient women. Don't go in expecting a fast-paced plot. Go in ready to walk alongside Annette, to feel the weight of her responsibilities and the warmth of her hopes. It’s a summer read for the thoughtful soul.