(Reviewed by JD Jung)
“What I feel now is pure hatred. And that surprises me—because I’m not like that, particularly toward someone I haven’t seen in what must be at least twentyfive years…I can’t help but sneak looks at him.”
Forty-seven-year-old Cécille Duffant is traveling on the 6:41 train back to Paris as she often does after visiting her parents in Troyes. However, this time she sees a man she had a relationship with twenty-seven years ago and her anger and hurt re-emerges. Surprisingly they only dated four months and only saw each other on weekends. But something happened in London that she will never forget, and she has never gone back to the city because of the painful memories.
Unbeknownst to Cécille, this man, Philippe Leduc does see her and remembers what happened in London. Though both pretend not to notice the other, this incident brings their insecurities to the surface. The chance encounter forces both to analyze how their lives have progressed through the years, even involving subsequent spouses and children.
We gradually learn about Cécille and Philippe as they drudge up the past and present in their minds all while sitting on a train. The author keeps us intrigued as he dishes out just enough bits and pieces at a time. There are surprises throughout the story and even lessons to be learned.
The narration and perspective constantly change between the two. It was confusing at first as I couldn’t tell who was “speaking”. About a quarter of the way through, I was able to distinguish the voice and point of view.
This annoyance was outweighed by the relatable and emotional storyline. I also kept wondering what happened in London and if the two would eventually acknowledge each other.
After reading The 6:41 to Paris, the 17th century poet George Herbert’s quote came to mind. “Living well is the best revenge.”
