Description

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Purnon, a Love Story is an architectural adventure and compelling memoir capturing the highs and lows of restoring an 18th century chateâu in regional France, published in full-sized hardback.  

Former Australian politician Tim Holding and his fiancée Felicity Selkirk admit their decision to purchase the 105-room Chateâu de Purnon in Verrue (French for 'wart') might be considered a fool’s errand. Built in 1771 but in a state of ruin after years of neglect, they signed up for a vast financial commitment, years of physical labor and ongoing run-ins with French bureaucracy as they work to restore Purnon to its former glory.   Presented in Tim’s pithy diary entries over the course of 18 months, this stunning hardback explores the storied history of the chateâu and meets a cast of bemused but intrigued locals the couple encounter on their journey.    

Featuring breathtaking photography by Laura Edwards, it’s both a compelling read and visually arresting tribute to a truly unique restoration. Purnon, a Love Story is about daring to dream on the grandest possible scale.

About the Author

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Tim Holding is a former Victorian state MP who gave up years of factional politics to move to France with his fiancée Felicity Selkirk. Their decision to purchase an 18th century chateâu in 2020 was unexpected and set them on a complicated and ongoing restoration process. He posts regular updates about the Chateâu’s refurbishment on Instagram, @chateaudepurnon. Tim holds a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Melbourne and a Masters in Advanced Global Studies from SciencesPo in France. He is learning to drive his broken tractor … slowly.