The French Vendetta

 The French Vendetta

Reviewed By  Ian Banks       June 6, 2026

 

Author  Michael Simon

Distributor:      Amazon
ISBN:                 978-0854958825
Publisher:         Sapere Books
Release Date:   15 May 2026  

   Website:   https://www.amazon.com/French-Vendetta-holiday-Holborne-Thrillers-ebook/dp/B0GF4QYS64

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A sudden change of plans to a long overdue honeymoon with Sally and baby Leia sees Charles Holbrook taking up the offer of a friend’s farmhouse in Gascony, which seems idyllic, but rather than having a relaxing holiday, they are plunged into a tragedy which has roots stemming back to World War 2.

The latest enthralling book in the Charles Holbourne Legal Thriller series, The French Vendetta is based on an event that occurred in the region when a group of Resistance Fighters were betrayed by one of their own with horrific results.

Villagers in many ways have not moved on since the final days of the War even though 25 years later life is vastly different, but there are still old scores to be settled and justice for the dead seen to be delivered.

Charles innocently walks into this underlying tension between two closely located Villages and finds he must defend a woman who is innocent of being considered as a collaborator, in a Country whose Law he does not know, in a language he does not speak. If she is found guilty, she will be executed.

The more he investigates the charges and the history of the area, he realises the person who was the collaborator is alive and doing very well and has been for some considerable time.

How Michael Simon navigates his way through the legal and historic jungle of deeply embedded hatred, lies, misinformation and motive, sees a riveting story unfolding as it peals back the layers of hatred that span decades to reveal a truth kept well-hidden. Once the truth is revealed, an area once cruelly divided can finally heal and be reunited.

The French Vendetta is highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a well-researched historic novel.

Crime, Fiction, Historical