Bonjour 2024! This week we take a look at the first book I read this year, The Paris Daughter by Kristin Harmel, and how amazing that I started the year off with a five-star read. I think this is a sign of an amazing reading year!
This is the second book I have read by Harmel and both were five-star reads for me (the other being The Book of Lost Names) so I will definitely be adding more to my future TBR.
What I have particularly enjoyed about these two books that I have read before is that they have the backdrop of World War II without being set in a concentration camp (I feel there are only so many of these books I can read, and it has been a lot). This story revolves around Elise and Juliette, two young mothers living in 1939 Paris who form a fast friendship. Their lives are profoundly affected by the war, leading to a cascade of emotional and difficult decisions.
The Paris Daughter is a deeply touching story that delves into the profound themes of motherhood and the tough decisions that come with it, especially during the turmoil of war. The story unfolds around Elise, who, in a desperate bid to save her daughter from the Nazis, entrusts her to Juliette. This critical decision intertwines their lives with the brutal reality of war, especially after a bomb devastates their neighborhood. This incident triggers a series of emotional challenges that persist long after the war has ended.
The book is an emotional journey, highlighting themes of resilience and the lasting effects of the past on present lives. It's a story that goes beyond historical fiction to explore the essence of motherhood. This story will have you asking yourself questions: What are the right choices for a mother in such dire circumstances? How does one ensure the safety and well-being of their children amidst chaos?
The story is marked by intense, gut-wrenching moments, yet it's beautifully told, making it a compelling page-turner.
Exceptional character development is a standout feature of this novel, particularly in the portrayal of the lasting impacts of war and the decisions made during it. The narrative also explores the struggle with the past, as seen in Juliette who cannot let go.
For fans of historic fiction that is rich in emotion and driven by strong, relatable characters, add The Paris Daughter to your TBR because life is too short to read bad books.