Night Train to Marrakech by Dinah Jefferies

*** Review ***

Dinah Jefferies’ Night Train to Marrakech, the third installment in the Daughters of War trilogy, is a mesmerizing novel that takes us on a journey through the intricate web of family secrets, love, and danger, all set against the backdrop of the vibrant and culturally rich 1960s Marrakech. Vicky Baudin, a French student, embarks on an adventure that will lead her to discover not only the truths about her enigmatic grandmother, Clemence Petier but also about herself.

The story begins with Vicky boarding the night train to Marrakech, escaping a failed relationship and chasing her iconic designer, Yves St. Laurent, through the winding Moroccan landscapes. Her quest, however, isn’t limited to haute couture; she’s on a mission to uncover the mysteries of her own family’s past. Clemence Petier, her estranged grandmother, resides in a kasbah perched high in the Atlas Mountains, guarding her secrets with unwavering determination.

From the moment Vicky arrives in Marrakech, the vivid descriptions of the Moroccan scenery, cuisine, and bustling souks envelop the reader in the rich tapestry of the setting. Jefferies masterfully weaves together romance, suspense, history, and well-crafted characters, making it an immersive experience. The historical context of 1960s Morocco adds depth to the narrative, shedding light on the political unrest that serves as an ominous backdrop to the characters’ lives.

One of the strengths of Night Train to Marrakech is Dinah Jefferies’ ability to transport readers into the heart of Morocco. The narrative is a sensory delight, filling your imagination with the vibrant colors, exotic scents, and the kaleidoscope of sounds that define Marrakech. The meticulous attention to detail in her descriptions makes the setting come alive, and the reader is instantly transported to a different time and place.

The characters are complex and multifaceted, each harboring their own secrets and personal struggles. Vicky’s journey of self-discovery and the unfolding of her family’s history is compelling. The connection between Vicky and her enigmatic grandmother Clemence is a central theme, and the emotional depth of their relationship is beautifully portrayed. Clemence, with her stoic demeanor and hidden past, is a character you can’t help but admire and root for.

However, Vicky’s character might not resonate with every reader. Her impulsive and sometimes naive behavior can be frustrating, making her less relatable as the protagonist. Nonetheless, her transformation throughout the story adds depth to her character and keeps the reader engaged.

While the title may lead you to expect the train journey to play a more significant role in the narrative, it’s more of a brief prelude to the main adventure in Marrakech. But fear not, because the true journey lies within the unraveling of family secrets and the encounters that shape the characters’ destinies.

One of the delights of Night Train to Marrakech is the way it ties back to the earlier books in the Daughters of War trilogy. It’s evident that this is the final piece of the puzzle, connecting the lives of the three sisters: Florence, Elise, and Helene. While this book can stand on its own, there are frequent references to past events and characters from the previous novels, and certain storylines reach their conclusion in this final chapter. To fully appreciate the depth and history of the characters, I would recommend starting the series from the beginning.

Dinah Jefferies’ skillful storytelling keeps the reader engaged and invested in the characters’ fates. The plot is fast-paced and filled with tension, with elements of romance, drama, and historical intrigue that provide a well-rounded reading experience. The author’s talent for blending all these elements together seamlessly is a testament to her storytelling prowess.

In conclusion, Night Train to Marrakech is a captivating novel that immerses the reader in the mystique of 1960s Morocco. It is a journey of self-discovery, family secrets, and the resilience of the human spirit. If you’re looking for a book that whisks you away to a different time and place, while unraveling the complexities of family relationships, this is a highly recommended read. Dinah Jefferies has once again proven her prowess in crafting an enchanting narrative, and I eagerly await her future works.