Chevalier, Tracy: *1962
The Virgin Blue, 1997 - Chapter-Summaries
- Chapters 1–2
The novel introduces two parallel storylines. In sixteenth-century France, Isabelle du Moulin struggles with religious change, family tragedy, and her unusual attachment to the Virgin Mary, while in modern France, Ella Turner moves from America with her husband Rick and feels isolated as she adjusts to a new culture.
Characters
Isabelle: innocent; spiritually conflicted; resilient after loss.
Ella: curious; lonely; determined to adapt.
Rick: supportive; practical. - Chapters 3–4
Violence against Protestants forces Isabelle's family to flee their home, beginning a dangerous journey. Meanwhile, Ella begins investigating her French ancestry after discovering clues that connect her family to the Tournier name.
Characters
Isabelle: protective mother; courageous; resourceful.
Ella: increasingly determined; fascinated by the past.
Jean-Paul: helpful; knowledgeable. - Chapters 5–6
Isabelle struggles to survive in a harsh new environment while facing suspicion from others. Ella's friendship with Jean-Paul grows stronger as she uncovers more information about her ancestors and begins questioning her marriage.
Characters
Isabelle: isolated; independent; enduring hardship.
Ella: emotionally conflicted; more confident; self-reflective.
Jean-Paul: compassionate; patient; supportive. - Chapters 7–8
Isabelle experiences increasing persecution because of her beliefs, appearance, and skills as a healer. Ella follows historical records that reveal surprising links between her dreams and Isabelle's life.
Characters
Isabelle: persecuted; strong-willed; compassionate.
Ella: persistent researcher; emotionally invested. - Chapters 9–10
Isabelle faces devastating personal losses and discovers how dangerous religious intolerance has become. Ella uncovers long-hidden family secrets that explain the mysterious dreams she has experienced since arriving in France.
Characters
Isabelle: grieving; determined; emotionally resilient.
Ella: insightful; accepting of family history; transformed. - Ending
Ella finally understands the connection between herself and Isabelle and finds peace with her family's past. Isabelle's suffering becomes part of the legacy that shapes future generations, and both women gain a stronger sense of identity through their experiences.
Characters
Ella: self-aware; independent; hopeful.
Isabelle: remembered through legacy; courageous; enduring.
Rick: distant; accepting of change.