07 Feb Book Review: Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand by Helen Simonson

I recently picked up Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand by Helen Simonson, drawn by its reputation as a charming exploration of love, tradition, and cultural clashes in a quaint English village. As someone who enjoys character-driven stories with a touch of humor, I was eager to delve into this debut novel.

What’s it about?

Set in the picturesque village of Edgecombe St. Mary in Sussex, England, the story follows Major Ernest Pettigrew (retired), a 68-year-old widower who cherishes the traditional English values of honor, duty, and decorum. His quiet life is disrupted by the sudden death of his brother, Bertie, which leads to an unexpected friendship with Mrs. Jasmina Ali, a 58-year-old Pakistani widow who runs the local village shop.

Bonding over their shared love of literature, particularly the works of Rudyard Kipling, and the mutual experience of losing their spouses, Major Pettigrew and Mrs. Ali find comfort in each other’s company. As their friendship deepens into a budding romance, they face subtle and overt opposition from the village’s close-knit community, which clings to outdated prejudices and social hierarchies.

Complicating matters further are family tensions: Major Pettigrew’s son, Roger, is more interested in financial gain and social status than in his father’s happiness, while Mrs. Ali’s family pressures her to adhere to their cultural expectations. The narrative delves into themes of cultural identity, racism, and the challenges of breaking societal norms.

A significant subplot involves a pair of valuable Churchill hunting rifles that the Major and his late brother each possessed. The Major wishes to reunite the pair as a family heirloom, but faces pressure to sell them for profit, symbolizing the broader conflict between tradition and modernity.

Throughout the novel, Simonson paints a vivid picture of village life, complete with its charm and underlying tensions, offering a humorous yet poignant commentary on the complexities of human relationships and the courage it takes to stand against societal expectations.

What This Chick Thinks

Diving into Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand, I was immediately captivated by Simonson’s witty and elegant prose. The novel beautifully balances humor and serious themes, providing a nuanced portrayal of love, loss, and the clash of cultures.

Major Pettigrew is an endearing protagonist—his dry wit and adherence to tradition make him both amusing and relatable. His character development is handled with subtlety, showcasing his journey from a man bound by societal expectations to someone willing to challenge them for the sake of love and personal integrity.

Mrs. Ali is portrayed with grace and depth, serving as a catalyst for the Major’s transformation while also grappling with her own struggles against cultural constraints. Their relationship unfolds naturally, with moments of tenderness and tension that reflect the complexities of late-life romance and intercultural dynamics.

The supporting cast adds richness to the narrative, embodying various facets of village life and societal attitudes. Simonson’s keen observations on class, race, and tradition are woven seamlessly into the story, prompting reflection without overshadowing the central narrative.

While the plot progresses at a measured pace, it allows for a deep exploration of character and setting, immersing the reader in the world of Edgecombe St. Mary. Some readers might find the pacing leisurely, but I found it fitting for the contemplative nature of the story.

Final Thoughts

Major Pettigrew’s Last Stand is a delightful and thought-provoking novel that offers a fresh perspective on love and cultural understanding in contemporary England. Helen Simonson’s debut is both charming and insightful, making it a rewarding read for those who appreciate character-driven narratives with social commentary. I’d rate it an 8.5 out of 10 for its engaging storytelling and nuanced exploration of complex themes.

Try it if you like:

• “The Unlikely Pilgrimage of Harold Fry” by Rachel Joyce
  A heartwarming journey of self-discovery and unexpected connections in the English countryside.
• “The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society” by Mary Ann Shaffer and Annie Barrows
  An epistolary novel that delves into post-WWII life, love, and the power of literature in a small community.
• “A Man Called Ove” by Fredrik Backman
  A touching story about a curmudgeonly man whose life is transformed by unlikely friendships.