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1961: It’s 1961 but in the rural Dutch province of Overijssel is the war is well and truly over?
The Safekeep
What you need to know before your trail
It’s 1961 and the rural Dutch province of Overijssel is quiet. Bomb craters have been filled, buildings reconstructed, and the war is well and truly over. Living alone in her late mother’s country home, Isabel’s life is as it should be: led by routine and discipline. But all is upended when her brother Louis delivers his graceless new girlfriend, Eva, at Isabel’s doorstep-as a guest, there to stay for the season…
Eva is Isabel’s antithesis: sleeps late, wakes late, walks loudly through the house and touches things she shouldn’t. In response Isabel develops a fury-fuelled obsession, and when things start disappearing around the house-a spoon, a knife, a bowl-Isabel’ suspicions spiral out of control. In the sweltering peak of summer, Isabel’s paranoia gives way to desire – leading to a discovery that unravels all Isabel has ever known. The war might not be well and truly over after all, and neither Eva – nor the house in which they live – are what they seem.
Travel Guide
Overijsse
Overijssel is a province located in the east of the Netherlands. The province’s name translates to “across the IJssel”. The capital city of Overijssel is Zwolle and the largest city is Enschede.
Lonely and isolated Isabel lives in the Dutch countryside in the house her mother had loved, surrounded by her most treasured possessions. This house is important to her, symbolic and a part of her. Her brother brings his girlfriend, Eva to stay and he heads off on a work trip. The woman form a bond and their lives change in the most unexpected of ways.
Booktrail Boarding Pass: The Safekeep
Destination: Overijssel, Netherlands Author/Guide: Yael van der Wouden Departure Time: 1961
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