Ruang Buku: 2025

"May scorched and withered; March was restless, and could be hard and cold in its brightness; but April came along softly like a blessing, and if it were a fine April it was so beautiful that it was impossible not to feel different, not to feel stirred and touched."

The Enchanted April offers a gentle, introspective story about four English women—strangers to one another—who decide to escape their unfulfilling lives and spend a month together in a medieval castle in Italy. Set in the 1920s, shortly after World War I, the novel explores themes of love, loneliness, and healing, all wrapped in the warm and fragrant atmosphere of an Italian spring.

“that anybody would quarrel about anything when they’ve not left off being together for a single day for two whole years. What we both need is a holiday.”

The premise is charming and simple: Mrs. Wilkins and Mrs. Arbuthnot, two rather ordinary and unhappy mediocore housewives in London, come across an advertisement for a castle available for rent in Italy. Longing for peace and beauty, they impulsively decide to share the cost—and the experience—with two other women: Lady Caroline, a glamorous socialite weary of constant attention and shallow relationships, and Mrs. Fisher, a conservative elderly widow clinging to the values of the Victorian era.

Though each woman arrives with different intentions, they all share a deep-rooted desire: to be loved, or at the very least, to find relief from the emotional fatigue of their lives. Their time at the fictional San Salvatore—based on Castello Brown in northern Italy—slowly transforms them. Von Arnim beautifully captures the lush scenery, the blooming flowers of spring, and the soothing atmosphere of the Italian coast, which acts almost like a magical force encourage the women toward personal renewal.

Lotty Wilkins is the heart of the group, with her contagious optimism and willingness to bridge differences. Her energy helps dissolve tensions, encouraging the others to reflect and open up. Meanwhile, Lady Caroline, hiding behind her beauty and privilege, gradually reveals her vulnerabilities, shaped by a distant and demanding mother and a social circle that constantly wants something from her.

The novel subtly critiques the roles and expectations placed upon women in Edwardian and post-war society. Each character’s inner turmoil reflects a larger struggle between tradition and modernity, repression and self-expression. There’s a quiet assumption that the castle itself is enchanted—but it's really the setting, the stillness, and the freedom from societal constraints that allow transformation to occur.

The Enchanted April is not only a story of escape, but also a journey toward rediscovery, connection, and the simple joy of being seen and appreciated. With its lyrical prose and empathetic portrayal of its characters, this novel remains a touching and relevant exploration of the human spirit. This book is enchanted to read. Till the end of the book, the author still want reader to think that San Salvatore is magical which brings many positive vibes and energy, like Lotty has said. but I assume that not just the a beautiful place, also the beautiful heart of these people. I think this book is enchanted to read, I like it.