In seventeenth-century France, faith is a matter of life and death. Under the rule of Louis XIV, the Huguenots – Protestant believers – face persecution, exile, and the constant threat of betrayal. Amid this turmoil, young Gédéon d’Albert is forced to grow up quickly, stepping into the role of protector and guide when his family’s future hangs in the balance.

From clandestine worship in hidden valleys to perilous journeys across dangerous terrain, Greet Suzon for Me vividly portrays the resilience of ordinary families caught in extraordinary times. Meticulously researched yet warmly human, this novel brings to life not only the grandeur and brutality of the Sun King’s France but also the courage, hope, and quiet faith of those who refused to yield.

Rich in historical texture and emotional depth, Vince Rockston’s narrative captures both the hardship and the humanity of a people determined to endure – and to pass on a legacy of faith and freedom.

The book is available as a paperback or ebook from Amazon (UK), Amazon (US) or from your local bookstore. The audio version will be coming soon. Please let me know if you’re interested in that.

I’ve recently read several books about the wives of Christian reformers. They led me to ponder on the way the Church’s emphasis and lifestyle have changed throughout history. Here is a very superficial summary of my analysis, concentrating on the European situation:

• Early Church: world mission – “Go into all the world and make disciples!”
• Constantine: State Church; theological controversies, ecumenical councils
• Crusades: Unite to kill the heretics and infidels!
• Middle Ages: Church dominates society; indulgences; Inquisition
• Age of Discovery, Reformation: personal faith based on Bible; religious wars 
• Enlightenment: Anabaptists, Puritans, Methodists; new mission; severe piety; social reform
• Pentecostalism: Signs and wonders; grass-roots, independent churches
• Postmodernism: Emergent Church, Missional Church; faith deconstructed and reconstructed
• Postchristian, new atheism: Church attendance drops; social gospel; “Love your neighbour!”

So, what is the issue? 

Churches globally would concur on these core truths: God sent Jesus to reveal Himself, to provide Atonement through His death and to establish a new Covenant of Grace. Jesus’ resurrection is also considered by most as essential for salvation, victory over death, and the hope of a future resurrection.

However, Church practice has changed a lot over time. The priorities of the Reformation and a modern European church contrast sharply.

In the former case, the Reformers criticised the established Church as a merely formal, oppressive institution, and stressed the importance of repenting of one’s sin, turning to Jesus in faith for one’s personal salvation, and believing the Bible. Every believer was called to win others to the faith.

Today’s European churches have largely lost any missionary zeal. Nor do they emphasise truth, repentance, faith and the importance of the Bible. Their goal is now to promote peace, justice and care for the environment, and to offer a tolerant, warm, encouraging community for the lonely, marginalised and underprivileged.

Jim Memory points out a new aspect in the July 2025 edition of the Vista Journal: Many new diaspora churches are springing up in Europe, but they aren’t having anything like the impact they should because so many of their leaders are unable or unwilling to accommodate their churches to the culture and context. As one Chinese church leader put it recently: ‘The Chinese diaspora churches are like beautiful flowers that have been planted in European soil, but they have forgotten to remove the pot.’ 

I’d be interested to hear what you have to say. Please add your comments below.

AD 536 saw the most protracted episode of climatic cooling.

We talk a lot about global warming. But sometimes the opposite happens.

Was it caused by one or more massive volcanic eruptions? The so-called volcanic winter of AD 536 was certainly an uncanny phenomenon. The sun went dark for eighteen months throughout the Northern Hemisphere.

Let’s hear how the magistrate of the Isle of Elba refers to it as he addresses a restless crowd at the forum in Fabricia.

Extract from from chapter 3 of “Aquila – Can Silvanus Escape That God?”

Short of breath and leaning on his cane, Duumvir Maxillus addresses the assembled crowd: “Honourable nobles, respected councillors, worthy citizens, faithful servants, young and old, I welcome you to this gathering on this rather salutary occasion.

“We have much to be thankful for. But I believe it behoves us to look back over the tumultuous years our Republic has been through recently. The older ones among you – like me – will remember, for instance, that divine portent of the sun going dark for more than a year…”

“How well I remember that,” my companion exclaims. “Unbelievable. Had no idea what was happening. Could hardly see a thing even at midday. Snow in summer and all the crops failed! A portent indeed!”

“…to warn us of bitter times ahead,” Maxillus continues. “Wars and rumours of wars, times of pestilence, affliction and deprivation…”

“Couldn’t buy grain for love nor money. Let alone wool or new pots. Tools and weapons nowhere to be had.”

“When was that?” I ask my neighbour. My hand wanders to my eagle pendant.

“When our Urbanus was a lad. Must have been… twenty-five years ago or so. Long before you were born! It was about that time that Totila arrested Cerbonius for hiding imperial soldiers…”

“Who?” I glance up at my companion.

She looks at me with disbelief in her eyes. “How is it you don’t know our good Bishop? He lives over your end of the island, in a cave on Monte Capanne. Didn’t you say you were from there?”

This is a short quote from chapter 3 of “Aquila – Can Silvanus Escape That God?” Want to learn how Silvanus got to know Bishop Cerbonius? The book is available from Amazon or elsewhere.

See The Forgotten Apocalypse Of A.D. 536. #globalwarming #climatechange #climatecooling #sunwentdark

A compelling story of a persecuted family condemned to die, but resilient in their faith.

Vince Rockston takes the reader into the grisly world of 17th century Europe where due to their staunch beliefs, the Huguenots establish themselves as enemy no.1. They demonstrate courage and determination through perilous journeys to reach others, intense persecution in their homes, secret communications to rescue other believers, and due to their witness, bringing others out of the dark.

The narrative begins with Gédéon, in 1681 Normandy. This defiant young lad’s viewpoint provides a glimpse into the tyranny and Catholic dominance of the day, and through his many trials, this rebellious boy progresses to a courageous young man whose decisions will impact everyone around him. Through Gédéon and his family, the reader experiences a story rich with history, culture, intriguing characters, hymns and bible verses, and inspiring tales.

Although sombre in nature due to the era, the author uses the characters to lighten the mood, and provides a few chuckles and warmth to the characters. There are some horrifying instances spoken of, but Vince provides just enough detail to stick to home the terrible ordeal the Huguenots experience.

Vince has balanced the history, religion, suspense, drama, and relationships, so that anyone reading the story can feel intertwined with the characters; feeling their losses, smiling at their beautiful and simple faith, and pondering how so many were willing to die for freedom. It provides fascinating insights into the religious-political attitude, the warring monarchy, secret agents, and the use of children on both sides to influence attitudes.

It does not push any one agenda, just presents an inspiring story of the decisions and heroic actions that eventually led to everyone’s freedom. The story presents ideas that although were present back then, can still be relevant today.

The story does not break away from the integral aspects. Each character plays an important part as events culminate, and although the characters are fictitious, the first-person narrative enables the story to read as almost a memoir. The characters are talking to us, so the reader can understand the psychology behind what drives them.

It is a beautifully inspiring tale of sorrow, persecution, forgiveness, joy, loss, love, unexpected friendships, and the true meaning of being a Christian.

There was a juicy twist at the end, leaving the story open for the protagonist to continue his adventure and his calling.

Highly recommend for those that enjoy historical Christian adventure, and drama deeply rooted in culture.

Book Blurb

King Louis XIV is determined to unite the French nation in a single church. Gédéon, the oldest child of a Huguenot family in Normandy, experiences first-hand the increasing hostility of the Catholic hierarchy. 

What is the cause of the religious conflict? Is reconciliation possible? Or will Gédéon’s family have to flee the country? 

What causes religious conflict today? Can’t the underlying disagreements be resolved? Sadly, even today, countless families in many countries see no alternative than to escape their beloved homeland and seek refuge in an unfamiliar, unwelcoming nation. Vince’s second book – Greet Suzon for me – about the plight of Gédéon’s family, is due to be published in 2025. 

Editorial Review

“Greet Suzon for Me” by Vince Rockston is a profound and emotional story set in the context of 17th-century France, a period marked by religious tensions between the Huguenots (French Protestants) and Catholics. The book is a complex journey into the lives of a Huguenot family in Normandy, sensitively portraying their struggle for survival and the preservation of their faith in the face of persecution. 

The novel begins in Lancrel, Normandy, in August 1681, a time when tensions between the Huguenots and Catholics had reached a boiling point. These conflicts are intensified by King Louis XIV’s royal decree aimed at suppressing Protestantism and forcing conversion to Catholicism. The tense atmosphere and hostility are vividly depicted in the text: „People were arriving at our temple from all sides, many of them carrying sticks. I had never seen that before. My body tensed. It looked as though they were expecting trouble.” This sentence reflects the fear and uncertainty faced by the Huguenot community, illustrating how dangerous it had become for them to practice their religion. 

The protagonist, Gédéon, is a young man whose life is deeply affected by these religious conflicts. We see him struggling with his own doubts and spiritual turmoil, trying to understand why religious beliefs can lead to so much hatred and violence: “I went through the motions of worshiping with them but couldn’t shake my uneasiness about how God-believing people could be so at odds. Was one side right, and one side wrong? Were our different opinions even worth arguing about?” 

This inner reflection of Gédéon adds depth to his character, portraying him not only as a witness to the events but also as a young man trying to find his own path in a confusing and divided world. 

Another strong aspect of the novel is the portrayal of family relationships and solidarity in the face of adversity. Gédéon’s father, a man of strong faith, tries to guide his family through these difficult times, maintaining an attitude of hope and courage: “We will ask God to deliver us from these attacks on our faith.” This sentence highlights the father’s determination to protect his family, even when facing severe persecution. 

The book also explores the psychological and social impact of religious persecution. The scene where Pastor Benoist is attacked and forcibly taken away by soldiers under the orders of Père de la Rue is a powerful depiction of conflict and spiritual resistance: “You may destroy this building,” Pastor Benoist bellowed. “But the true Church of our Lord will continue – unfaltering – in the hearts of His dear children.” This declaration by the pastor, in the face of possible death, symbolizes the unyielding resilience of the Huguenot believers and their faith in divine protection. 

Vince Rockston employs a realistic yet poetic narrative style to authentically capture the atmosphere of the era. The detailed descriptions of religious rituals, rural landscapes, and interpersonal relationships fully immerse the reader in the characters’ world. The well-crafted dialogues reflect the deep convictions of the characters, adding realism and narrative depth. The episode where the main character arrives at Abraham Papot’s house is particularly moving, especially when he meets Papot’s daughter, Élisabeth. Her facial disfigurement, resulting from the violence she endured, becomes a symbol of the regime’s cruelty and the suffering of the Huguenots. The young man’s reaction upon seeing her and the ensuing conversation with Monsieur Papot add emotional depth and underscore the brutality of the dragonnades—the persecution campaigns against the Huguenots. The book continues to reveal aspects of solidarity within the Huguenot communities, where ordinary people risk their lives to shelter the persecuted. At the same time, the author explores religious themes through texts and sermons read by the protagonist, reflecting the moral dilemmas faced by the Huguenots. The passage from Saint Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, quoted in the book, serves as a call to perseverance and moral action, regardless of others’ beliefs. This emphasis on universal kindness and Christian charity sharply contrasts with the violence imposed by the authorities, creating narrative tension between religious ideals and harsh reality. As the story progresses, the reader witnesses the hardships of emigration and the search for a safe place in Europe, culminating in their arrival in Geneva. Here, the concept of “refugee” becomes central, reflecting the desperate situation of thousands of Huguenots forced to leave their homes. The way the protagonist and Sophie are received in Geneva, as well as their interactions with various officials, highlights the complexity of this process and its impact on their identity. 

A central element of the novel is Gédéon’s relationship with his faith. While his sister Madeleine maintains an unwavering belief in God, even in the darkest moments: “Her faith – despite her weakness and the peril we were in – was nothing short of amazing. Sick, freezing, soaked to the bone, and being tossed to and fro… and still she believed Jesus would come to her rescue.” Gédéon struggles with deep doubts, often feeling helpless and afraid: “I felt more vulnerable than ever. And despite Papa and Maman’s teachings, and all the cultes I’d attended, all the psalms and prayers I’d uttered, I felt my faith wavering. All I could think about was how scared I was, and how helpless. I realised I didn’t share Madeleine’s trust in God.” 

A remarkable aspect of the novel is how the characters maintain hope and faith even in the most challenging moments. A crucial moment occurs when Noël confesses his guilt and asks for forgiveness for his mistakes. His transformation from a persecutor of the Huguenots to a repentant man illustrates the novel’s central theme, exploring forgiveness and the profound change an individual can experience throughout life. 

An essential moment that illustrates the family dynamics is when Papa announces the decision to leave the house in haste. Mama’s immediate reaction, collapsing onto the couch speechless, and Madeleine rushing to pack, underscores the tension and despair that dominate the family in the face of imminent danger. 

“Greet Suzon for Me” is a compelling and powerful novel that delves into universal themes of faith, resilience, and survival amidst the harsh realities of religious oppression. Vince Rockston masterfully weaves an emotional narrative with meticulously researched historical details, offering readers a profound understanding of the struggles and aspirations of the Huguenots during a tumultuous period in European history. The novel presents a vivid portrayal of the characters’ lives, capturing their hopes and fears as they navigate the dangers of persecution. Rockston’s rich storytelling immerses the reader in the emotional landscape of the time, illustrating not only the physical challenges faced by the Huguenots but also their spiritual battles. As the story unfolds, it evolves into a deep meditation on the complexities of human identity, particularly in the face of societal and religious pressures. The themes explored in the novel resonate not only with historical contexts but also with contemporary issues surrounding identity, faith, and the quest for belonging. 

“Greet Suzon for Me” is more than just a historical account; it is a testament to the enduring strength of the human spirit when confronted with adversity. This novel is an essential read for anyone interested in religious history and the intricate dynamics of faith and resilience. It serves as a reminder of the timeless struggle for freedom and the power of hope in even the darkest of times. 

****** 

“Greet Suzon for Me” by Vince Rockston receives 4.5 stars from The Historical Fiction Company

D. K. Marley
HFC CEO

My book is not about Suzon at all. So why does she figure in the title?

Well, she doesn’t – not really. 

Let me explain. We’re in France at a time of religious persecution. People and sensitive documents are being smuggled from one country to another. After a clandestine meeting, Gédéon’s father is being arrested by King Louis XIV’s soldiers.

I’ll read what happens:

He turned to me and in a gentle voice said, “Adieu, son. Greet Suzon for me.”

They left. I was alone. Trembling. Who was Suzon? And what was I to do? 

Next day, still with his host family.

“Papa said I should greet Suzon.” I wiped my eyes with my sleeve. “But I have no idea who that is. Or where she lives. Somewhere east of here, I guess. He pointed that way.”

“Wait,” Danton broke in. “You spoke of a colporteur in the mountains. That’s probably Jean Giraud. He’s well known in our circles – travels back and forth as a pedlar between the Alps, Lyon and Geneva, selling wares and books. But secretly, he smuggles letters – and helps Huguenots escape. He has a little daughter.” He turned to his wife. “Isn’t…?”

“That’s right, her name’s Suzon!” she remarked, her face beaming. “I remember wondering why they chose a Hebrew name.” She rested her chin on her hand for a moment, gazing into the distance, then added, “She must be three or four by now.”

“Why would Papa want to send greetings to a little child?” I asked. “They can’t possibly know each other.”

Danton turned his gaze to me again. “That was a secret instruction. Your father trusts you to go on without him. To deliver the reports of how we are being persecuted to the Protestant leaders in Geneva. You must find Jean Giraud. He will bring you there.” 

“Call of Freedom” by Paul C. Monk continues the saga of the Huguenot family Delpech. Having fled the oppressive dragonnade in France to find refuge in Ireland, in 1699 the family decides to brave a dangerous sea crossing and seek a new life in New York.

The story captures the pervasive anxiety and fear of this treacherous journey, alongside the yearning for a settled life in the countryside. Jacob Delpech, who had been in New York ten years earlier, is plagued with uncertainty. He lost contact with his friend Daniel Darlington and is unsure if the deed for the land he reserved in New Rochelle is still valid.

The narrative shifts back to 1689, where Daniel is tasked by the self-styled governor of New York, Jacob Leisler, to defend against French rivalry with the English over the profitable beaver fur trade. Amidst this, Daniel’s pregnant wife, Marianne, tragically contracts smallpox, adding personal stakes to the broader political and economic turmoil.

In 1699, the Delpechs finally arrive in New York; they discover that Darlington has purchased their land for them and built on an adjacent plot. This twist brings relief and resolution, as the families settle together in the Huguenot village of New Rochelle. It highlights a broader theme of the book: the aspiration for freedom of conscience and the desire to trust God, rather than seeking wealth at the cost of injustice.

But young Paul Delpech faces his own internal conflict, torn between his dream of an adventurous life as a sailor in the Caribbean and his love for sixteen-year-old Lily-Anne.

Monk masterfully portrays the dichotomy between the aspirations of the New World settlers and the often indifferent and remote decisions made by European kings. “Call of Freedom” is a compelling tale of resilience, hope, and the pursuit of a just and peaceful life in the face of relentless challenges.

This post explores the “Zeitgeist” or Spirit of the Age in 17th century France, a time that heralded the Age of Enlightenment. It touches on the social and intellectual ambiance, as well as certain political and religious developments.

Conflicts

17th-century France saw the consolidation of King Louis XIV‘s concept of absolute monarchy. As the “Sun King”, he sought to centralize power and establish sole authority. The court at Versailles became the center of political and cultural life, where His Majesty cultivated an image of grandeur, magnificence, and divine right. His expansionist drive meant he frequently waged war against neighbour countries:

• Franco-Spanish War (1635–1659): This conflict saw France and its allies fighting against Spain and its allies, including the Habsburg Empire. The war was fought primarily in the Spanish Netherlands, Italy, and Germany and ended with the Treaty of the Pyrenees in 1659.
• War of Devolution (1667–1668): Louis XIV’s marriage to Maria Theresa of Spain in 1660 included the Spanish Netherlands as part of her dowry. When the Spanish refused to pay, Louis invaded the Spanish Netherlands. The conflict ended with the Treaty of Aix-la-Chapelle.
• Franco-Dutch War (1672–1678): Louis XIV fought against the Dutch Republic, Spain, the Holy Roman Empire, and several German states, as he sought to expand French territory and influence in Europe. The war ended with the compromise Treaty of Nijmegen in 1678.
• Nine Years’ War (1688–1697): This conflict saw France again facing a coalition of European powers, including England, the Dutch Republic, Spain, the Holy Roman Empire, and several German states. It ended with the Treaty of Ryswick in 1697.
• War of the Spanish Succession (1701–1714): Louis XIV’s attempt to name his grandson, Philip of Anjou, as heir to the Spanish throne riled England, the Dutch Republic, Austria, and others. Another war started and ended with the Treaties of Utrecht and Rastatt, which secured territorial gains for France but prevented the union of the French and Spanish crowns.

The 17th century also witnessed a continuation of profound religious tensions and conflicts between Catholics and Protestants. This climaxed when Louis revoked the Edict of Nantes in 1685 and attempted to consolidate Catholicism as the state religion. A fresh wave of persecution began, causing many Huguenots to flee the country.

Ideas

In the realm of arts and culture, the 17th century in France was marked by the flourishing of literature, drama, and philosophy. Prominent French writers and thinkers of the time were René Descartes, Pierre Corneille, Jean Racine, and Blaise Pascal. They made significant contributions to intellectual discourse and artistic expression, shaping the cultural landscape of the time.

The Scientific Revolution, which began in the 16th century, brought significant advancements in astronomy, physics, and mathematics, as well as mechanics and technology. Brilliant French thinkers, such as René Descartes, Pierre de Fermat and Blaise Pascal, revolutionised mathematics. In other countries, Galileo Galilei and Sir Isaac Newton challenged traditional beliefs and promoted empirical observation, reason, and rational inquiry.

Humanist ideas from the Renaissance emphasized the importance of individualism, critical thinking, and the pursuit of knowledge. Enlightenment thinkers drew inspiration from a diverse range of philosophical and political traditions, including liberalism, republicanism, and constitutionalism. Voltaire, Montesquieu, Jean-Jacques Rousseau and Denis Diderot developed theories on natural rights, social contract, separation of powers, and religious tolerance. These challenged traditional authority and paved the way for modern democratic principles.

The Zeitgeist in 17th-century France reflected the tensions between tradition and innovation, authority and resistance, religious orthodoxy and intellectual inquiry. It was a period of dynamic change and transformation that laid the foundations for the emergence of modern France.

‘Greet Suzon for me’, a book about a Huguenot family’s persecution under Louis XIV and their perilous escape from France to Jersey, is now available.

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Religious conflicts have plagued societies throughout history, causing immense suffering, division, and loss of life. In this blog post, I explore the root causes of religious conflicts and propose potential solutions, drawing on historical examples from 17th-century France and contemporary cases.

Why do religious conflicts occur?

Many are the causes of religious conflicts, and each case is unique. Here are some of the major reasons:

• Many people assume the conflict arises from a divergence of beliefs, but this is an oversimplification. Often, the disagreement is between factions of the same religion: Orthodox, Catholic or Protestant Christians; Sunni or Shia Moslems. In such cases, it often comes down to narrow interpretations of particular words or holy days; or attitudes to specific books, images, or rituals. One example from Christianity would be the different attitudes to Mary. All Christians respect her as a model of faith and obedience to God, and as the mother of Jesus, who is both fully human and fully divine. Orthodox and Catholic churches venerate her as more than merely human and offer prayers to her for intercession.
  Another difference would be the question of how literally the Bible should be accepted.
  One could say, each believer should be free to hold his or her beliefs on such matters, but it is often the practicalities that cause offence. Do we erect in our sanctuary a gold-plated statue of Mary holding a little baby Jesus? Do we make the Bible available in our local language for everyone to read?
• Between different religions, both doctrines and practices can cause strife. Moslems cannot accept that Jesus was divine and that his death offers believers forgiveness and peace with God. Jews, Christians and Moslems are offended by the many gods of Hinduism. Moslem men cannot tolerate women who dress casually or, in their eyes, provocatively. Jews insist on respect for their Sabbath and can’t tolerate others who see it as a normal working day. Again, it should be possible for everyone to adhere to his or her principles without condemning others.
• Throughout history, rulers and governments have often exploited religious convictions to consolidate their power and control. In 17th-century France, for example, King Louis XIV believed he could only maintain his rule over the country if everyone adhered to the Catholic Church. Protestants, such as the Huguenots – and members of other minority faiths – were pressurised to abjure their faith or flee the country. In reality, this was a manifestation of a megalomaniac lust for power and glory on the part of the King.
• Poverty, inequality, and marginalization, as well as misunderstandings and misperceptions, can also exacerbate religious tensions.

Potential solutions

Since religious conflicts usually arise from judgemental attitudes towards those of a different faith, I suggest some approaches as to how they could be solved.

• Often the problems arise from misunderstandings. Encouraging dialogue between members of different religious communities can promote mutual understanding and foster peaceful coexistence.
• Interfaith cooperation can play a crucial role in promoting peace and reconciliation. By emphasizing shared values and common goals, such as caring for sick and elderly people, religious leaders and communities can work together to address shared challenges and build a more harmonious society.
• Political reforms that promote democratic principles and inclusive governance, denying leaders autocratic powers, can help de-escalate tensions and encourage peaceful solutions to conflicts.
• Addressing socioeconomic injustices is another important measure for addressing religious tension. Investing in education, healthcare, and economic opportunities for marginalized communities can help ease grievances and build social cohesion.

Examples from French history

In 16th and 17th-century France, religious conflicts between Catholics and Huguenots, known as the Wars of Religion, ravaged the country for decades. The Edict of Nantes in 1598, which granted religious freedom to Huguenots, was a significant step towards peace and reconciliation.

However, the revocation of the Edict in 1685 by Louis XIV reignited religious tensions and led to further persecution of Huguenots. Many well-educated and skillful people fled the country, experiencing severe hardship and loss. This resulted in major disruptions to social structures and institutions, as qualified professionals were no longer available.

Contemporary Cases

In recent years, some of the conflicts in the Middle East, parts of Africa and Asia, have been fueled by religious divisions. Socioeconomic disparities have also had an influence. Here again, we see that religious conflicts are complex issues that require multifaceted solutions. But international conflict, such as Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, as well as internal political struggles, especially by the rising populist leaders, are clear cases of lust for and misuse of power.

Promoting dialogue and understanding, and working towards inclusive governance and social justice, would help to build a more peaceful and harmonious world where diversity is respected and celebrated. Unfortunately, international efforts, such as by the United Nations, have been largely unsuccessful in resolving these situations.

‘Greet Suzon for me’, a book about a Huguenot family’s perilous escape from religious persecution in France, is now available.

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Flight by sea

Whatever the reason people leave their country to seek a new home, the decision is never easy. Often they have suffered physically under some harsh regime or hostile neighbours. They may have had to abandon their possessions or even family members they would have wished to take with them. If they have small children, clandestine travel with little comfort and minimal supplies becomes extremely difficult.

Leaving one country to reach another often means crossing over dangerous sea. Where will we find a boat? Will it be seaworthy? Do we have to row? None of us know how to handle sails. Our children can’t swim and we adults aren’t much good at it either. What will happen if the boat capsizes? How will we be able to navigate, especially since we’ll be travelling at night? Can we find an experienced sailor who will take us across to safety?

In the book ‘Greet Suzon for me’

My book ‘Greet Suzon for me’, which is now available, is about the Huguenot family d’Albert from Alençon, Normandy. They suffer such persecution from King Louis XIV and the Catholic Church that they see no alternative than to undertake the perilous journey to the British channel island of Jersey. Stéphane, a friendly fisherman, agrees to take them there in his tartane¹. However, they are caught in a severe storm. And as Gédéon desperately tries to help Stéphane lower the sail, the yard snaps and the sail tears apart.

After some desperate struggles, the boat founders on a hidden rock. Dawn breaks, and the plaintive cries of seagulls suggest land is near. Finally, Stéphane, Gédéon, his mother, his sick sister and their dog manage to reach the tiny rocky islet of Les Écréhous. But that is only halfway to freedom…

Today’s refugees

Much has changed geopolitically and technologically in the intervening centuries. This hasn’t stopped thousands of people from choosing each day to flee their homelands because of religious or political oppression, economic factors, disasters, or environmental conditions. Whether its sub-Saharan Africans fleeing desperate conditions in Libya in tiny boats for Malta, Lampedusa, or Italy; impoverished south and central Americans who have trekked for weeks through hostile regions and then try to cross from Mexico to the United States of America; or misled and cheated Asians, risking all to cross the English Channel from Calais to Dover – many succumb to the rough seas or the unseaworthiness of their vessels.

Games is a spectacular book describing the traumatic experiences of several Afghan refugees who are forced by inhuman living conditions to flee their home and seek a new place to live. I have had personal contact with families who spent years advancing slowly from Asia or the Middle East towards Europe, and experienced repeated brutal pushbacks² by hostile authorities in Iran, Turkey, Greece, Bulgaria or Croatia before they finally arrived in the West.

One man I know, who had no experience at sea, tells how he passed mutilated bodies on the Turkish shore before the professional smugglers gave him charge of thirty people in an inflatable dinghy made for ten. They sent them out at night, with very little fuel, telling him to head for some distant lights on a Greek island. Two accompanying boats capsized, causing him the trauma of seeing men, women and children frantically struggling in the waves and not being able to save them from drowning. His fuel ran out before they reached land, but most of the passengers managed to wade through the shallow water, only to find themselves alone on an uninhabited rocky islet…

Statistics of failed migration

At least 8,565 people died on migration routes worldwide in 2023 … more than half of the deaths were a result of drowning.
The Mediterranean crossing continues to be the deadliest route for migrants on record, with at least 3,129 deaths and disappearances in 2023.

International Organization for Migration (IOM)

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1. a small boat used both as a fishing ship and for coastal trading ↩︎
2. state measures by which refugees and migrants are illegally forced back over a border – generally immediately after they crossed it – without consideration of their individual circumstances and without any possibility to apply for asylum ↩︎