Madame Verona Comes Down the Hill

It’s rare to find a book that captivates so many emotions. Rich in descriptive voice, Madame Verona Comes Down the Hill, is a warm and affectionate novel.

Many years ago, Madame Verona and her husband Monsieur Potter moved to a house on the top of a steep hill in a small village. The solitude was welcomed, and the couple lived blissfully for many years. However, after Monsieur Potter dies, the villagers expect Madame Verona to return to where she came from, but surprising everyone she stays in the house with only stray dogs for company.

One February morning, Madame Verona puts the last log on the fire and heads down the hill, so old now; she knows she won’t be able to make it back up. In her old age, Monsieur Potter is always present, and her memories keep her going. Such reflection is only natural, but written with a stellar imagination; Verhulst captures its true essence. A charming novel, by one of The Netherlands’ rising stars, Madame Verona Comes Down the Hill is a timeless novel about love, loss and village life.

Cherie Federico