In Praise of Tortue du Soleil
“I was pleasantly surprised… The peacefulness and beauty of the island mixed with the different protagonists of the novel translated well in S.E. Filomeo’s writing. Cassandra’s ruin of a relationship with her husband, Maia’s desire to follow her dream, and Amelie’s uncertainty made the characters feel real. Filomeo does a superb job of showing the reader what her characters want, as well as allowing her characters to grow and develop.”
—San Francisco Book Review
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“This is a book that has it all—compelling and highly varied characters, a strong plot with many surprise twists, and a seductive setting—French Polynesia. The main characters are three very strong-minded women, all searching for love in their own way. As we eavesdrop on their lives and interactions we learn a great deal about life and customs in a very exotic part of the world. I would recommend this to anyone looking for a delightful and satisfying read.”
—Carol Cartaino, founder Writer’s Digest Books
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“A stirring story of three women whose lives intersect as they each arrive at the titular hotel in French Polynesia. Maia, Amélie, and Cassandra each come from very different worlds. Readers will eagerly follow their individual struggles and concerns, whether it’s finding true love, rebuilding a broken marriage, or working toward a distant aspiration. Descriptions of their struggles come across as genuine, while the setting also plays a critical role in the storytelling.”
— Booklife Prize, by Publisher’s Weekly
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“S.E. Filomeo writes reverently of the paradise that is the Hotel Tortue de Soleil. The reader is immediately caught up in the beauty of the place–the lush scenery, the diverse ocean life, the way tradition blends into modernity. The description is rich, so the reader feels as though they’ve been transported to French Polynesia. The vivid imagery helps a reader feel closer to the plot because they can picture themselves there.”
— TouchPoint Press
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“S.E. Filomeo focuses on the intricacies of personal journeys. She uses the idyllic setting of Rangiroa as both a literal and symbolic backdrop for change. It is a physical space of transition and isolation, soothing while provoking reflection, and catalyzes change within each of the women. It’s always enjoyable to read books that celebrate culture and heritage, and Tortue Du Soleil does not disappoint. It captures the rhythm of life on the island, from the food and weather to traditional dress, language, folklore, and music. I loved how the story began with such a broad and open lens, leaving me curious about how all the threads would come together. And when they finally did, Filomeo wove them with remarkable skill and emotional clarity, making the ending very satisfying. For readers drawn to journeys of self-discovery set against a rich, immersive cultural backdrop with island vibes, Tortue Du Soleil is an absolute must-read.“
—Readers’ Favorite
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S. E. Filomeo 