Season 9, Episode 1 - Rhys Bowen
In this captivating episode, host Colin Mustful sits down with bestselling author Rhys Bowen to discuss her latest novel, Mrs. Endicott's Splendid Adventure. Set in 1938, the story follows Ellie Endicott, a dutiful wife blindsided by her husband’s request for a divorce. Instead of retreating quietly, Ellie embarks on a bold journey to the south of France, where she discovers friendship, community, and a new sense of purpose.
Rhys shares insights into her meticulous research process, the historical backdrop of pre-WWII France, and the themes of resilience and reinvention that shape Ellie’s story. She also reflects on the power of community, the role of women during WWII, and her own journey as an author. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about history, fiction, and the courage to start anew.
🎧 Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform!
About the Author
Rhys Bowen is the New York Times bestselling author of two historical mystery series and acclaimed stand-alone novels including In Farleigh Field, The Tuscan Child, and The Venice Sketchbook. Her books have won multiple Agatha, Macavity, and Anthony Awards, sold millions worldwide, and been translated into twenty-two languages. Bowen’s Molly Murphy series, co-written with her daughter Clare Broyles, and her Royal Spyness series featuring Lady Georgie, continue to delight readers with their wit, depth, and sense of place. Born in Bath and educated at London University, she now lives in California and Arizona, where she writes and enjoys travel.
Mrs. Endicott’s Splendid Adventure
Blindsided by betrayal in pre-WWII England, a woman charts a daring new course in this captivating tale of resilience, friendship, and new love by the bestselling author of The Rose Arbor and The Venice Sketchbook.
Surrey, England, 1938. After thirty devoted years of marriage, Ellie Endicott is blindsided by her husband's appeal for divorce. It's Ellie's opportunity for change too. The unfaithful cad can have the house. She's taking the Bentley. Ellie, her housekeeper Mavis, and her elderly friend Dora--each needing escape--impulsively head for parts unknown in the South of France.
With the Rhône surging beside them, they have nowhere to be and everywhere to go. Until the Bentley breaks down in the inviting fishing hamlet of Saint Benet. Here, Ellie rents an abandoned villa in the hills, makes wonderful friends among the villagers, and finds herself drawn to Nico, a handsome and enigmatic fisherman. As for unexpected destinations, the simple paradis of Saint Benet is perfect. But fates soon change when the threat of war encroaches.
Ellie's second act in life is just beginning--and becoming an adventure she never expected.
