Guyenne Valley

The Guyenne Valley is the primary backdrop for the novel. This is a rural region in the southwest of France. Sadie Smith travels here after leaving Marseille and moving into the Dubois family's manor house. The area is defined by rolling hills, tall grasses, farmlands, and quiet. Throughout Sadie's time in the valley, she marvels at her surroundings. At times she even tries to block out the ways in which this idyllic environment is impacting her emotionally. However, the natural beauty of the region does open Sadie's heart and mind in new ways. Sadie ends up leaving the valley abruptly when she finishes her job with Le Moulin.

Dubois Estate

The Dubois estate is located in the Guyenne Valley not far outside Boulière and Vantôme. The manor house on the property is 300 years old and has been in the Dubois family for generations. However, no...