The Paris Daughter, by Kristin Harmel, is an absolutely riveting, evocative, World War 2 story about two mothers who are faced with impossibly difficuThe Paris Daughter, by Kristin Harmel, is an absolutely riveting, evocative, World War 2 story about two mothers who are faced with impossibly difficult, choices they are forced to make for the sake of their children. This story speaks to the horrors women bravely face and endure, the power of friendship, the unimaginable strength of love, and the resilience of the women who will sacrifice all for their children.
Elise and Juliet are two young women living in pre-war Paris. They have an accidental, but fated meeting, and soon become fast friends. They are both pregnant and form a bond with one another, promising to look after one another and their children, whatever comes their way. With war on the horizon and the threat of Hitler’s invasion looming, this promise may be more inevitable than either woman imagined. When the worst occurs, the women hold to their promises, but it changes them in ways neither woman could ever foresee.
This powerful, poignant story, is beautifully written, cleverly plotted, and an impactful, thought-provoking narrative. Ms. Harmel has a gift for penning unique, historical fiction stories that feel fresh, insightful and applicable to the modern day reader, despite the passage of time. I highly recommend this story and look forward to more from this author....more
4.75 stars The Spectacular, by Fiona Davis, is a captivating dual timeline, historical fiction novel that primarily takes place in 1950’s New York City4.75 stars The Spectacular, by Fiona Davis, is a captivating dual timeline, historical fiction novel that primarily takes place in 1950’s New York City. We follow Marion Brooks, during both her short, but impactful stint as a Radio City Music Hall Rockette, and in the modern day as she is rewarded and recognized as an influential dancer, choreographer and notable person of her time.
This story spends most of it’s time in the past during the 1950s rich history, glam, prestige, social expectations, and bias of the day. It was an era denoted by the Big Apple bomber, the early stages of psycho-analysis and social profiling which became a key investigative element of the FBI. The Spectacular is rich in family drama and conflict, and the topics of loss, heartache, women’s rights, with the themes of female friendship and camaraderie and finding your own path for your life.
I loved the main character and the way she relentlessly, but not heartlessly, pursued her dreams despite opposition. The side characters were varied and interesting. The timeframe was atmospheric, engaging and intriguing and the plot was filled with secrets, suspense, social elements and a side of romance. The Spectacular is a quick, entertaining, delightful story and one I thoroughly enjoyed....more
Hotel Laguna is a historical fiction novel by Nicola Harrison, set in the post-war, free-wheeling art-town, Laguna Beach.
This story follows Hazel FraHotel Laguna is a historical fiction novel by Nicola Harrison, set in the post-war, free-wheeling art-town, Laguna Beach.
This story follows Hazel Francis who worked in an airplane factory during the war and absolutely thrived. When she lost her job once “the boys” came home, she was at a loss as to what to do with her future. She eventually found herself in Laguna Beach and secured a job with a well-known, esteemed, but also notorious artist, as his assistant. He is not an easy man to spend time with, or work for, but Hazel, who has no father, is drawn to this enigmatic, brilliant, cantankerous man. As an independent woman, she also finds herself right at home in this forward thinking community.
Though I certainly enjoyed the many descriptions of Laguna Beach, since I grew up near there, and the references to the Pageant of the Arts, which I have attended, I wasn’t a fan of the main character. She made so many poor decisions and tended to rub me the wrong way. Several of the other characters felt a bit flat and had some frustrating traits. Though the plot had it’s moments, generally speaking, it seemed somewhat dry, predictable and simplistic.
Hotel Laguna has a prevalent theme of feminism, which was repeated quite frequently. I appreciated the points made and the passion behind them, but similar sentiments were made in abundance. This story has a touch of romance and mystery intermixed with art elements and social commentary, all set within a historical context. It is a light-hearted post-war story that will appeal to many, it just wasn’t a favorite of mine....more
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