The Paris Daughter
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Book Brief
384
Novel • Fiction
Paris, France • 1940s
•
Art•
Mothers2023
Gallery Books
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
The Paris Daughter by Kristin Harmel is a historical fiction novel set during WWII, centering on artists Elise LeClair and Juliette Foulon, who navigate protecting their families during the Nazi occupation of Paris and confronting the trauma of loss. The story explores themes of maternal responsibility, the influence of art on identity, and the impact of trauma on memory. Topics include child loss, war trauma, and antisemitism.
Emotional
Melancholic
Contemplative
Mysterious
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
88,402 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Kristin Harmel's The Paris Daughter has been praised for its vivid historical setting and emotional depth, offering readers a compelling tale of friendship and resilience. However, some critics argue that the plot can be predictable and the pacing uneven. Overall, it is a moving read that captures the trials of wartime motherhood.
Who Should Read The Paris Daughter?
The ideal reader for Kristin Harmel's The Paris Daughter enjoys historical fiction, particularly World War II-era narratives filled with emotional depth and resilience. Fans of Kristin Hannah's The Nightingale and Anthony Doerr's All the Light We Cannot See will likely appreciate the profound storytelling and evocative settings in this novel.
88,402 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
A bookstore owner whose life is transformed by the events of the story, initially kind and welcoming, she grapples with personal loss and change over time.
The daughter of Elise, known as Lucie in the later stages of the novel, she is a talented artist who navigates her complex identity and relationships as she grows up.
A Jewish widow and survivor of WWII who emigrates from Germany, she is a supportive figure to Elise and her experiences reflect the broader historical context.
384
Novel • Fiction
Paris, France • 1940s
•
Art•
Mothers2023
Gallery Books
Adult
18+ years
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