The Paris Daughter

Kristin Harmel is one of my absolute favorite World War II historical fiction writers. She has a way of bringing characters to life and they always stay with me long after I’ve finished the book. The Paris Daughter is another amazing and impeccably researched novel about the horrors of war but more importantly it's a book about motherhood and the difficult and often unthinkable decisions that mothers are faced with in order to see their children survive.

What appealed to you the most in this story?

I truly loved following this story and following Elise and Juliette through all the twists, turns and inner conflict they had to not only endure, but endure as mothers during WWII in Paris and then later after the war. Harmel writes realistic characters that have flaws and face real personal challenges. I was drawn to each characters fullness and complexity. You could feel the humanity, love, emotional conflict, and trauma that was put into writing each character, and this brought life and breath into the book itself. In general, I found myself lost and fully immersed in each character as I cried for them, wished their death, or even just wanted to reach into the pages of the book to hold their hand in support.

How was the pace?

I was able to fly through this fast-paced story about motherhood and sacrifices, friendship and love, grief and despair with characters that will have you shedding tears.

Do you recommend this book?

I will always recommend Harmel’s moving stories. She is able to tell a story that highlights those who still had heart, bravery, faith and strength in order to create an emotional story that will have you turning the pages without feeling bogged down.

Thank you, Gallery Books, for this gifted copy in exchange for my honest review.