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The Lost Woman
When the Nazis arrest Nicole Cassin’s parents and seize their art gallery in Paris in 1941, Nicole vows revenge and joins the Resistance. Years later, living in New York, she is haunted by her losses and hires an art historian to find her family’s stolen paintings, among which is a portrait of her mother by Matisse. The whereabouts of the stolen art prove elusive but the search for them leads to another more unexpected discovery. A moving story of courage, determination and defiance.
298 pages, Paperback
Published March 7, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
April 2, 2026
In many ways this was a difficult book to read, as there is much about the cruelty, greed and evil treatment of the Jews during WWII. Then too, the lives of the citizens coping with war conditions and those who tried to 'hide' in France. There is much about high value art paintings and how they were confiscated and divided up, taken from the walls of many Jewish homes. The Picassos, Monets, and more - gone to Hitler, Goring and others. Art dealers and collectors - some legit but many not - also get mentioned.
We see this story through several pairs of eyes. Of main note are the eyes of Nicole as a hands-on eyewitness and who instigates Robert, years later, to trace lost pieces of her family's paintings. The reader will also find story twists through Kenneth, Alexi, and Sam.
A caution I would remark on is that since this is also a story seasoned with romance, some potential readers many not appreciate some of the more intimate bedroom descriptions. So saying, most of the story's focus is on the stolen art work and the difficult process of recapturing them and getting them back to the rightful owners. I found this interesting and learned a thing or two in this regard.
Tears may be shed and at times, breaks from reading may be needed; at least this happened to me. However, over all, The Lost Woman was well defined, giving what I feel this work of historical fiction deserves, that is, a satisfactory "well done!"
~ Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger ~
March 2026
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent to me by NetGalley and the publisher.
We see this story through several pairs of eyes. Of main note are the eyes of Nicole as a hands-on eyewitness and who instigates Robert, years later, to trace lost pieces of her family's paintings. The reader will also find story twists through Kenneth, Alexi, and Sam.
A caution I would remark on is that since this is also a story seasoned with romance, some potential readers many not appreciate some of the more intimate bedroom descriptions. So saying, most of the story's focus is on the stolen art work and the difficult process of recapturing them and getting them back to the rightful owners. I found this interesting and learned a thing or two in this regard.
Tears may be shed and at times, breaks from reading may be needed; at least this happened to me. However, over all, The Lost Woman was well defined, giving what I feel this work of historical fiction deserves, that is, a satisfactory "well done!"
~ Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger ~
March 2026
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the complimentary review copy sent to me by NetGalley and the publisher.
May 10, 2026
In The Lost Woman, Karen Mulvahill masterfully weaves the "Greatest Theft in History" into a poignant narrative of survival and restoration.
The Currency of Culture
The novel illustrates how the Nazis used stolen art as a chilling form of leverage. Art wasn't just aesthetic; it was a liquid asset used to fund the war machine and, in Nicole’s Paris, a dark trade where paintings were stolen and exchanged to buy and sell lives. Mulvahill honours Rose Valland, the Louvre curator who secretly recorded the transit of looted works at the Jeu de Paume. Like Valland, Nicole’s involvement in the Resistance highlights the danger of documenting these "paper trails." The arrival of the MFAA (Monuments Men) shifts the narrative to the agonisingly slow post-war restitution process. The book mirrors the real-world tension today: art historians must battle "provenance laundering" by dealers who rely on the chaos of WWII to keep stolen masterpieces, like Nicole’s mother’s Picasso, in private hands.
The Cost of the Fortress
Nicole’s New York life is a study in "guardedness" as a survival mechanism. The novel argues that while a wall of silence protects a survivor from immediate pain, it eventually starves the life they’ve built of its authenticity. Mulvahill suggests that we must reckon with the past when the "buried" truth begins to poison the present. Vulnerability is portrayed not as a weakness but as the only key to reclaiming a stolen identity. Being overly cautious might keep one safe, but it also ensures that the person remains a ghost in their own story.
The Masquerade of the Dead
Mulvahill explores the "Paper Walls" of post-war Europe, where some soldiers assumed the identities of the fallen to escape prosecution or the trauma of their home countries. This was facilitated by the utter collapse of bureaucracy; with millions displaced, a dead man’s papers were a golden ticket to a fresh start. Most hauntingly, the novel depicts "psychological collusion." Some loved ones often accepted imposters because the alternative—total loss—was unbearable. Accepting a "living lie" served as a desperate, living monument to the person they couldn't bear to let go.
The Currency of Culture
The novel illustrates how the Nazis used stolen art as a chilling form of leverage. Art wasn't just aesthetic; it was a liquid asset used to fund the war machine and, in Nicole’s Paris, a dark trade where paintings were stolen and exchanged to buy and sell lives. Mulvahill honours Rose Valland, the Louvre curator who secretly recorded the transit of looted works at the Jeu de Paume. Like Valland, Nicole’s involvement in the Resistance highlights the danger of documenting these "paper trails." The arrival of the MFAA (Monuments Men) shifts the narrative to the agonisingly slow post-war restitution process. The book mirrors the real-world tension today: art historians must battle "provenance laundering" by dealers who rely on the chaos of WWII to keep stolen masterpieces, like Nicole’s mother’s Picasso, in private hands.
The Cost of the Fortress
Nicole’s New York life is a study in "guardedness" as a survival mechanism. The novel argues that while a wall of silence protects a survivor from immediate pain, it eventually starves the life they’ve built of its authenticity. Mulvahill suggests that we must reckon with the past when the "buried" truth begins to poison the present. Vulnerability is portrayed not as a weakness but as the only key to reclaiming a stolen identity. Being overly cautious might keep one safe, but it also ensures that the person remains a ghost in their own story.
The Masquerade of the Dead
Mulvahill explores the "Paper Walls" of post-war Europe, where some soldiers assumed the identities of the fallen to escape prosecution or the trauma of their home countries. This was facilitated by the utter collapse of bureaucracy; with millions displaced, a dead man’s papers were a golden ticket to a fresh start. Most hauntingly, the novel depicts "psychological collusion." Some loved ones often accepted imposters because the alternative—total loss—was unbearable. Accepting a "living lie" served as a desperate, living monument to the person they couldn't bear to let go.
July 9, 2026
A very comprehensive book about the Nazis, their plunder involving the Jews and their treasures, as well as galleries and museums, the same stolen art work and the difficult process of finding them and getting them back to their original owners. We meet one of the Jews to survive the roundups, a 'Art Detective' and his soon to be lover, honest and dishonest art dealers, a sting operation and lots of historic facts. I found the entire book to be fully engaging and would recommend it highly.
Netgallery set me up with this ARC in exchange for an honest and thoughtful review.
Netgallery set me up with this ARC in exchange for an honest and thoughtful review.
April 26, 2026
Karen is a master of writing with her descriptions and narratives flowing as smoothly as gentle stream which is a contrast to the turbulent times she is describing, the brutal occupation of Paris by the Nazis.
“People these days may wonder why the Jews didn’t just leave. In hindsight it’s easy to see that flight was the right decision. But there was only a small window of time between being able to leave France and being forbidden to emigrate. An infinitesimal gap, in the grand scheme of things, during which nothing was certain. It was like a game of roulette on which you had to bet every chip you had— your home, your friends, your country, your livelihood— against your life. You were forced to play, and yet the odds were fluctuating, uncertain from day to day.”
The overarching dynamic of the The Lost Woman is “The Quest,” the search for works of art stolen from Nicole’s family by the Nazi occupiers. The book is also about Nicole’s search for herself that did not really commence until she was 93 years old. Up until then Nicole had suppressed her memories and her guilt and she had not anticipated that her search for the lost paintings would force her to reevaluate her past.
The story of capturing art, love and resistance will engage all readers, but there are also deeper philosophical and moral issues raised in the book that remained unresolved in the end, perhaps because they are unresolvable. Here are a few. What is the true value of art? Is it only what competitive buyers are willing to pay? Is art that is hoarded by acquisitive collectors truly priceless if the artist’s message and vision are not shared with the public? A painting may have a price tag, but is it valuable? Is the saving any work of art worth one human life? And finally is it possible to sell only one part of your soul to the devil, or in Nicole’s case the Nazis?
“People these days may wonder why the Jews didn’t just leave. In hindsight it’s easy to see that flight was the right decision. But there was only a small window of time between being able to leave France and being forbidden to emigrate. An infinitesimal gap, in the grand scheme of things, during which nothing was certain. It was like a game of roulette on which you had to bet every chip you had— your home, your friends, your country, your livelihood— against your life. You were forced to play, and yet the odds were fluctuating, uncertain from day to day.”
The overarching dynamic of the The Lost Woman is “The Quest,” the search for works of art stolen from Nicole’s family by the Nazi occupiers. The book is also about Nicole’s search for herself that did not really commence until she was 93 years old. Up until then Nicole had suppressed her memories and her guilt and she had not anticipated that her search for the lost paintings would force her to reevaluate her past.
The story of capturing art, love and resistance will engage all readers, but there are also deeper philosophical and moral issues raised in the book that remained unresolved in the end, perhaps because they are unresolvable. Here are a few. What is the true value of art? Is it only what competitive buyers are willing to pay? Is art that is hoarded by acquisitive collectors truly priceless if the artist’s message and vision are not shared with the public? A painting may have a price tag, but is it valuable? Is the saving any work of art worth one human life? And finally is it possible to sell only one part of your soul to the devil, or in Nicole’s case the Nazis?
Read
June 26, 2026The Lost Woman is a poignant and beautifully crafted historical novel that intertwines love, courage, art, and survival against the backdrop of World War II.
Karen Mulvahill skillfully blends historical authenticity with emotional storytelling, bringing Nicole’s remarkable journey vividly to life. The dual timelines, compelling search for stolen masterpieces, and exploration of resilience, identity, and remembrance create a gripping narrative that is both heartbreaking and hopeful. Rich in historical detail and emotional depth, the novel is a powerful tribute to those who risked everything to preserve both lives and cultural heritage.
Karen Mulvahill skillfully blends historical authenticity with emotional storytelling, bringing Nicole’s remarkable journey vividly to life. The dual timelines, compelling search for stolen masterpieces, and exploration of resilience, identity, and remembrance create a gripping narrative that is both heartbreaking and hopeful. Rich in historical detail and emotional depth, the novel is a powerful tribute to those who risked everything to preserve both lives and cultural heritage.
June 12, 2026
This historical fiction book was an easy and quick read. I enjoyed the heartbreaking journey with two time lines of nazi occupied Paris and modern day search for lost artwork. I am fascinated by stories involving art that was stolen by the Nazis and greedy collaborators. Such a dark time in history with evil, greedy men trying to make money off the very souls and lives of others. Nicole, our heroine of the story, was extremely brave and persevered during horrific years as she tried to keep hope alive to find and see her parents survive the war. One thing that resonated with me and I am still thinking about. The concept of marking art. Process or Product?
July 22, 2025
An intimate view of life in occupied Paris during WWII from the viewpoint of a young woman trying to save her family's art gallery. I read it slowly, the better to savor the writing and the story. You'll enjoy the memories of Nicole, even those that are not easy to accept.
December 3, 2025
Really liked this! Good research, well written, interesting with some surprises..
June 28, 2026
The Lost Woman by Karen Mulvahill is a deeply emotional and carefully layered historical fiction novel that explores memory, identity, survival, and the enduring consequences of war through a dual timeline narrative spanning Nazi occupied Paris and post war New York.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its emotional depth. Nicole Cassin’s journey begins in 1940 Paris, where the sudden arrival of Nazi occupation transforms her life from one of relative security into a world defined by fear, resistance, and impossible choices. Her evolution from a sheltered teenager into someone forced to confront the realities of war gives the story its emotional backbone.
The depiction of occupied Paris is vivid and immersive. The atmosphere of uncertainty, suspicion, and danger is portrayed in a way that highlights both the fragility of daily life and the extraordinary courage required to resist oppression. The integration of art and cultural loss adds another meaningful layer to the historical setting.
The dual timeline structure enhances the emotional impact of the novel. Nicole’s later life in New York as a widowed woman searching for her family’s stolen art collection introduces a reflective and investigative dimension that complements her earlier experiences in wartime France.
The art focused storyline, particularly the search for Picasso’s portrait and the stolen collection, provides a compelling narrative thread that connects personal history with broader historical crimes. It also highlights the lasting impact of cultural theft during war and the long journey toward justice and reclamation.
Robert’s role as an art historian adds depth and momentum to the investigation. His connection to wartime efforts and his involvement in uncovering hidden truths introduces a sense of mystery and tension as the search reveals a network of collaborators, corruption, and buried secrets.
The novel also stands out for its exploration of resilience. Nicole’s strength, shaped by both trauma and determination, carries the emotional weight of the story and reflects the broader experiences of those who lived through occupation and loss.
For readers who enjoy WWII historical fiction, dual timeline narratives, stories of resistance, art history mysteries, and emotionally driven character journeys, The Lost Woman offers a powerful and moving reading experience that lingers well beyond the final page.
One of the novel’s greatest strengths is its emotional depth. Nicole Cassin’s journey begins in 1940 Paris, where the sudden arrival of Nazi occupation transforms her life from one of relative security into a world defined by fear, resistance, and impossible choices. Her evolution from a sheltered teenager into someone forced to confront the realities of war gives the story its emotional backbone.
The depiction of occupied Paris is vivid and immersive. The atmosphere of uncertainty, suspicion, and danger is portrayed in a way that highlights both the fragility of daily life and the extraordinary courage required to resist oppression. The integration of art and cultural loss adds another meaningful layer to the historical setting.
The dual timeline structure enhances the emotional impact of the novel. Nicole’s later life in New York as a widowed woman searching for her family’s stolen art collection introduces a reflective and investigative dimension that complements her earlier experiences in wartime France.
The art focused storyline, particularly the search for Picasso’s portrait and the stolen collection, provides a compelling narrative thread that connects personal history with broader historical crimes. It also highlights the lasting impact of cultural theft during war and the long journey toward justice and reclamation.
Robert’s role as an art historian adds depth and momentum to the investigation. His connection to wartime efforts and his involvement in uncovering hidden truths introduces a sense of mystery and tension as the search reveals a network of collaborators, corruption, and buried secrets.
The novel also stands out for its exploration of resilience. Nicole’s strength, shaped by both trauma and determination, carries the emotional weight of the story and reflects the broader experiences of those who lived through occupation and loss.
For readers who enjoy WWII historical fiction, dual timeline narratives, stories of resistance, art history mysteries, and emotionally driven character journeys, The Lost Woman offers a powerful and moving reading experience that lingers well beyond the final page.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.
“The Lost Woman” is a historical fiction book by Karen Mulvahill. This book is a confusing one to not only describe, but also review. Nicole Cassin, an older woman living in NYC, requests that Robert, an art historical, look for paintings her family owned in their gallery in France before & during WWII. Additionally, she asks him to look for a soldier she fell in love with after the war. Robert decides to do both of these things for Nicole. Robert finds them man - which opens a can of worms, but also gets Robert a love interest (so, a win for him!). While most of the story is told by Nicole (past) or Robert (present), three other characters make appearances - Nicole’s mother, Nicole’s love interest, and Robert’s grandfather. I’m not really sure why the mother and grandfather’s chapters were included as they didn’t move the plot forward. Reading this book at times I got flashes of “The DaVinci Code” with some of the art discussion in paintings and going to museums and database work (and the romantic interest parts). Overall, I found this book to be complete, but at times it felt rather flat. I don’t feel like the cover accurately depicts the theme of the story - since it’s a story about war torn France and hunting for paintings. Whenever I read a historical fiction book, I ask myself “did I learn anything new” - yes, but it was a minor thing that honestly had nothing to do with the main story. Overall, this wasn’t a bad book, but it wasn’t quite what I expected (plus, DaVinci code wasn’t one of my favorite books). However, as I always say, take my review with a grain of salt. It’s obvious that the author did her homework regarding paintings and WWII claims - so for that I applaud her. Overall, 2.5 stars, rounded up to 3.
“The Lost Woman” is a historical fiction book by Karen Mulvahill. This book is a confusing one to not only describe, but also review. Nicole Cassin, an older woman living in NYC, requests that Robert, an art historical, look for paintings her family owned in their gallery in France before & during WWII. Additionally, she asks him to look for a soldier she fell in love with after the war. Robert decides to do both of these things for Nicole. Robert finds them man - which opens a can of worms, but also gets Robert a love interest (so, a win for him!). While most of the story is told by Nicole (past) or Robert (present), three other characters make appearances - Nicole’s mother, Nicole’s love interest, and Robert’s grandfather. I’m not really sure why the mother and grandfather’s chapters were included as they didn’t move the plot forward. Reading this book at times I got flashes of “The DaVinci Code” with some of the art discussion in paintings and going to museums and database work (and the romantic interest parts). Overall, I found this book to be complete, but at times it felt rather flat. I don’t feel like the cover accurately depicts the theme of the story - since it’s a story about war torn France and hunting for paintings. Whenever I read a historical fiction book, I ask myself “did I learn anything new” - yes, but it was a minor thing that honestly had nothing to do with the main story. Overall, this wasn’t a bad book, but it wasn’t quite what I expected (plus, DaVinci code wasn’t one of my favorite books). However, as I always say, take my review with a grain of salt. It’s obvious that the author did her homework regarding paintings and WWII claims - so for that I applaud her. Overall, 2.5 stars, rounded up to 3.
July 3, 2026
The Lost Woman is a beautifully crafted World War II historical novel that combines emotional storytelling, meticulous historical research, and a fascinating exploration of stolen art, survival, and resilience. Karen Mulvahill delivers a moving story that lingers long after the final page.
Nicole is a remarkable protagonist whose journey spans decades, allowing readers to witness both the devastating impact of Nazi occupation and the lasting emotional consequences that follow. Her determination to reclaim her family's stolen legacy adds an intriguing layer to an already powerful story, while her courage and resilience make her easy to admire.
The dual timelines are seamlessly woven together, with each chapter revealing new pieces of both the wartime narrative and the modern-day investigation. The transition between past and present feels natural, steadily building suspense while deepening the emotional connection to the characters.
The novel's exploration of art theft during World War II provides a compelling and less frequently explored perspective on the conflict. The search for the missing paintings, particularly the treasured Picasso portrait, adds mystery and historical depth while highlighting the cultural devastation caused by the war.
Karen Mulvahill also captures occupied Paris with vivid authenticity. The fear, uncertainty, quiet acts of resistance, and impossible choices faced by ordinary people are portrayed with sensitivity and realism, making the historical setting feel immersive and emotionally impactful.
For readers who enjoy The Nightingale, The Postmistress of Paris, or other character-driven WWII novels, The Lost Woman offers a thoughtful blend of history, mystery, romance, and hope. It is an engaging and heartfelt tribute to resilience, memory, and the enduring importance of preserving both family and history.
Nicole is a remarkable protagonist whose journey spans decades, allowing readers to witness both the devastating impact of Nazi occupation and the lasting emotional consequences that follow. Her determination to reclaim her family's stolen legacy adds an intriguing layer to an already powerful story, while her courage and resilience make her easy to admire.
The dual timelines are seamlessly woven together, with each chapter revealing new pieces of both the wartime narrative and the modern-day investigation. The transition between past and present feels natural, steadily building suspense while deepening the emotional connection to the characters.
The novel's exploration of art theft during World War II provides a compelling and less frequently explored perspective on the conflict. The search for the missing paintings, particularly the treasured Picasso portrait, adds mystery and historical depth while highlighting the cultural devastation caused by the war.
Karen Mulvahill also captures occupied Paris with vivid authenticity. The fear, uncertainty, quiet acts of resistance, and impossible choices faced by ordinary people are portrayed with sensitivity and realism, making the historical setting feel immersive and emotionally impactful.
For readers who enjoy The Nightingale, The Postmistress of Paris, or other character-driven WWII novels, The Lost Woman offers a thoughtful blend of history, mystery, romance, and hope. It is an engaging and heartfelt tribute to resilience, memory, and the enduring importance of preserving both family and history.
May 21, 2026
"To reclaim what the Nazis stole, she must face what she tried to forget. Paris, 1940. Nicole Cassin is a Jewish teenager living above her family's art gallery when the Nazis occupy the city. Overnight, everything is her home, her security, her future, and Nicole is forced to grow up fast. As Paris sinks deeper into fear and suspicion, she is drawn into the Resistance and into a world where a whispered name or a single painting can mean the difference between freedom and tragedy. Decades later in New York, Nicole-widowed and running out of time-receives a letter that upends the life she has spent years trying to build. Determined to reclaim her family's legacy, she hires Robert, an art historian with ties to the wartime efforts to save Europe's cultural treasures, to trace the fate of her parents' stolen collection, including a portrait of her mother painted by Picasso."
I am such a sucker for WW2 novels and this was nothing short of amazing. Nicole had to to endure so much in the early years of her life and this depicts it perfectly. 🥲 Nicole had suppressed so much of what she went through and didn't fully "find herself" until she was in her 90's. I absolutely loved the alternating of the timelines from whenever Nicole was a teen to present day. There were also other characters where we got to see their POV's in this novel as well. Even though it was fictional, she did a great job of portraying a lot of real life things that happened.
"You were forced to play, and yet the odds were fluctuating, uncertain from day to day."
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and Karen Mulvahill for my copy of this book! 📕
I am such a sucker for WW2 novels and this was nothing short of amazing. Nicole had to to endure so much in the early years of her life and this depicts it perfectly. 🥲 Nicole had suppressed so much of what she went through and didn't fully "find herself" until she was in her 90's. I absolutely loved the alternating of the timelines from whenever Nicole was a teen to present day. There were also other characters where we got to see their POV's in this novel as well. Even though it was fictional, she did a great job of portraying a lot of real life things that happened.
"You were forced to play, and yet the odds were fluctuating, uncertain from day to day."
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and Karen Mulvahill for my copy of this book! 📕
June 17, 2026
In this World War II historical fiction novel, readers follow Nicole Cassin, a Jewish teenager living above the family’s art gallery when the Nazis occupy Paris in 1940 and everything changes overnight. Forced to grow up quickly under the shadow of occupation, she joins the Resistance and the dangers that lurk just out of sight. Decades later, Nicole lives in New York and receives a letter that inspires her to reclaim her family’s legacy. Hiring art historian Robert, who has his own ties to the wartime efforts to save Europe’s cultural artifacts, Nicole hopes he can discover what happened to her parents’ art collection and the portrait of her mother by Picasso. Fascinating, emotionally intense, and immersive, readers will love the shifts between the two narratives and the book’s focus on art through Nicole’s (and Robert’s) eyes. The characters are complex and well-written, while Nicole’s growth over the book’s two timelines really shows how much time has passed and how impactful life under Nazi occupation was. The mystery in the present day storyline adds another level to the narrative, and readers will really appreciate all the detail in both storylines, and Karen Mulvahill has done a fantastic job balancing these narratives in her new novel.
Thanks to NetGalley and Book Whisperer for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Book Whisperer for the advance copy.
April 5, 2026
I enjoyed this but didn’t love it. While the present day chapters were very interesting, following the trail of the stolen art, I didn’t really think the romance plot was necessary, and I also didn’t like how judgemental Robert was of Amy! I mean at one point he goes “sometimes her usage of pop culture phrases and jokes really annoyed me. She had even confessed to an addiction to a reality TV show called The Bachelor. I wished she’d try to be more serious.” Girl, this man is a walking red flag! Get out now!! God forbid a girl have trashy hobbies. He also didn’t know what FOMO meant amongst other things”pop culture phrases”. I also didn’t like how Amy began as a serious psychologist but then began to be described as a vapid airhead.
This mostly alternated between the present day and Nicole’s WWII timeline but then there were a couple of other chapters from Robert’s grandfather’s POV and also the mysterious Alexei, both of which seemed at first to come out of nowhere. It all felt a bit disjointed at times and like the book should have been twice as long but got severely edited down.
This mostly alternated between the present day and Nicole’s WWII timeline but then there were a couple of other chapters from Robert’s grandfather’s POV and also the mysterious Alexei, both of which seemed at first to come out of nowhere. It all felt a bit disjointed at times and like the book should have been twice as long but got severely edited down.
April 6, 2026
I received this ARC from NetGalley for an honest review. . This is a dual timeline historical novel. Nicky Cassin Kincaid’s family owned an art gallery in Paris in the 1940’s . When Nicky was 18 years old, her father was arrested by the Nazis and she never saw him again . The story begins with Nicole (Nicky) hiring Robert Ames, an art historian, to find the family’s famous original paintings that were stolen by the Nazis . Nicole also asked Robert to find Sam Popinski, an American soldier who she was in love with and last saw in 1944 in France . The book also has several other minor plots that make the story somewhat confusing . The romantic escapades of Robert were graphic and didn’t add much to the story. I learned a lot about Goring and the Fuhrermuseum in Linz (his birthplace) where many of the stolen pieces of art were displayed. The book explained about trying to retrieve the art that was stolen from the Jews who were arrested . President Dwight D. Eisenhower created the MFAA (monuments, fine arts and archives) unit of the Armed Forces. This novel by Karen Mulvahill was a very interesting and informative book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Lost Woman by Karen Mulvahill is a book that ticks all the boxes of what I look for when I'm choosing something to read. It's written by a woman with excellent storytelling skills, it has a strong female character living and enduring hardhips during WWII under Nazi occupation in a European setting, and sometimes include a dual timeline. What's unique about this novel is that while it has the characteristics I just listed it expands them. Nicole/Nicky is not just the main character we're reading about in the WWII timeline, she's also one of the characters particpating in the decades later timeline. Robert Ames, art historian, is the main character in the more recent timeline who's hired by Nicky to find her family's valuable art pieces taken by the Nazis. Expanding on the dual timeline, we discover other significant characters in the WWII time period and how they fit in with the present period timeline. To say more about them would spoil the intriguing way that Mulvahill has woven them into the lives of the main characters. Nicole's struggles to survive as a Jewish woman living openly in Paris in the 1940's, and the hunt for the lost art and the start of a new romance for Robert, create drama and mystery to keep the book exciting to the very end. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, dual-timelines, and romance. I received an ARC from Book Whisperer through NetGalley but all opinions are my own.
April 5, 2026
The Lost Woman is a dual timeline novel told in multiple voices, with the main character, Nicole, in both timelines. When we first meet Nicole, she is a teen living with her parents in Paris above the family art gallery. As a Jewish family, their gallery is taken away, "sold" to a Gentile but Nicole is allowed to stay working there. Her parents are taken away to concentration camps and she hopes to negotiate with the Nazis to get them released while witnessing collaborators and secretly helping the Resistance. In the current timeline, she hires art historian, Robert, to find some of the exquisite paintings that were stolen from her family by the Nazis. I found the story a little slow and also a bit confusing, trying to figure out who was talking and how they fit into the story, but all in all, it came to a satisfying ending. Robert's father had been a Monuments Man in WWII and we also hear from his voice as well as other.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
July 20, 2026
I think I was just disappointed with this one. The synopsis sounded good. A French girl, Nicole, left alone during the war starts working in her father's gallery after it was taken over. She did some work for the Resistance but that was treated more like a side note. In the present time she hires an art historian, Robert, to find her family's paintings. Seems kind of straight forward but there wasn't a thrill to the search, just a lot of Robert going through computer data bases. Also Nicole asked him to find Sam, an American soldier, she fell in love with during the war. While at the nursing home Robert meets Amy, psychologist, and that is the romance part of the novel. I didn't like Robert much, found him afraid of commitment and judgmental but his character wasn't developed much to know why he was the way he was. It did get me interested to learn more about the Monument men but overall the story wasn't that exciting.
Thank you to Netgalley and Book Whisperer for providing me with a digital copy.
Thank you to Netgalley and Book Whisperer for providing me with a digital copy.
April 21, 2026
Set in the era of WWII in Paris, the Nazi occupation was brutal. For Jews the gradual erosion of liberties meant that many did not escape in time. Nicole Cassin, a teenager at the time escaped but her parents did not. Owning a small but exclusive gallery, brought the attention of the Nazis, when they started plundering art across Jewish households and the gallery was not exempt. Getting a job there was clever, because Nicole kept meticulous accounts of who took paintings and where.
Fast forward to New York and decades later Nicole enlists Robert an art historian to search for some of the paintings with a few clues she had. Robert unearths not just paintings but a story of subterfuge regarding Nicole’s husband who they believed was dead.
There is a lot of harsh realities to be faced in this book and I took it slow, as it was not easy to read. However much we face or try to face the inhumaneness of man, it is not an easy subject to face.
Fast forward to New York and decades later Nicole enlists Robert an art historian to search for some of the paintings with a few clues she had. Robert unearths not just paintings but a story of subterfuge regarding Nicole’s husband who they believed was dead.
There is a lot of harsh realities to be faced in this book and I took it slow, as it was not easy to read. However much we face or try to face the inhumaneness of man, it is not an easy subject to face.
April 3, 2026
The Lost Woman: A Historical WWII novel of Art, Love, and Resistance by Karen Mulvahill is a dual timeline historical novel. Much takes place during WWII when Nazi stole from so many of the Jewish people. Nicole Cassin Kincaid, now an older woman living in NYC, had family paintings take during the war. Alon with the paintings she wishes Robert to find a soldier that she had fallen in love with during this time. Most of the present is told by Robert while the past is by Nicole. There is also a side story of Robert’s family which seems to give him the incentive do try to achieve Nicole’s requests. Part searching for the truth and reclaiming what had been taken, part giving the history of Paris during that time. An interesting story.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Lost Woman by Karen Mulvahill
A WWII historical fiction set in war torn Paris is a story about a young Jewish girl Nicole, whose parents own an Art Gallery. We follow Nicole’s story from her young years during the war as well as her older years when she is in search of paintings that were owned by her family. Along with the paintings she also wanted to find out what happened to her long lost love.
My feelings on this book are complicated. While I love WWII historical fictions and there were parts of this book that I really enjoyed, there was also a lot of parts that did not keep me interested.
I received this ARC from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review.
A WWII historical fiction set in war torn Paris is a story about a young Jewish girl Nicole, whose parents own an Art Gallery. We follow Nicole’s story from her young years during the war as well as her older years when she is in search of paintings that were owned by her family. Along with the paintings she also wanted to find out what happened to her long lost love.
My feelings on this book are complicated. While I love WWII historical fictions and there were parts of this book that I really enjoyed, there was also a lot of parts that did not keep me interested.
I received this ARC from Net Galley in exchange for my honest review.
July 26, 2026
The Lost Women blends a dual timeline with the hunt for lost WW2 artwork. For me, I found the historical aspects of that search intriguing. I really enjoyed learning about the process of tracking down lost artwork. I also liked the detail in describing the art, it made you feel like the piece was before you
However, I felt the story moved a little slow at times and some of the side characters didn’t always feel essential and could have been more tightly integrated with Robert or Nicole’s storyline.
An interesting concept with some compelling historical detail, but a 2.5 star experience for me.
However, I felt the story moved a little slow at times and some of the side characters didn’t always feel essential and could have been more tightly integrated with Robert or Nicole’s storyline.
An interesting concept with some compelling historical detail, but a 2.5 star experience for me.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
There was plenty in this book to make it interesting. Paris in wartime featuring Jewish gallery owners, a modern day mystery looking for art stolen by Nazis in ww2. However the plot did not hang together fully. Characters appeared and disappeared and you wondered what the added to the storyline. The lead character, Nicole is a feisty woman making difficult choices, but not enough about her is 8ncluded, especially the period after the war and how she moved to USA and what life was like for her there.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Silent Voices, Lasting Echoes
The Lost Women by Karin Mulvahill is a gripping and emotional read that shines a light on stories often left untold. With a strong sense of atmosphere and compassion, the book draws you into the lives behind the headlines, blending tension with heartfelt depth. Mulvahill’s writing is engaging and thought-provoking, A powerful and memorable read. Thanks to NetGalley and to the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Lost Women by Karin Mulvahill is a gripping and emotional read that shines a light on stories often left untold. With a strong sense of atmosphere and compassion, the book draws you into the lives behind the headlines, blending tension with heartfelt depth. Mulvahill’s writing is engaging and thought-provoking, A powerful and memorable read. Thanks to NetGalley and to the publishers of this book for giving me a free advance copy of the book to preview and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
April 6, 2026
Thank you to the author, to Book whisperer and to netgalley for the advance copy of this book.
I find it a difficult book to review. for there are parts of this book I struggled with so I cannot say I loved it. There was rather a lot of violence and greed and too many characters who came, stayed a short while and disappeared. As dual timeline's go it works but there were too many blind alley-ways which seemed to have nothing to do with the central plot.
This book promised so much but offered less than that.
I find it a difficult book to review. for there are parts of this book I struggled with so I cannot say I loved it. There was rather a lot of violence and greed and too many characters who came, stayed a short while and disappeared. As dual timeline's go it works but there were too many blind alley-ways which seemed to have nothing to do with the central plot.
This book promised so much but offered less than that.
July 4, 2026
The Forgotten Woman written by Karen Mulvahil. This book takes place in Paris 1941. The Nazis arrested Nicole Cassin’s parents and steal their famous art collection. Nicole seeks revenge by joining the French Resistance. Years later while living in New York she hires an art historian to find the stolen paintings, especially the painting of her mother. This will open old wounds and open some closed doors that may contain harsh memories. #historicalfiction #wwii #worldwartwobooks #kindle #readersofinstagram
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. I really wanted to like it more than I did. And parts of it I really did enjoy in liked reading about Nicole’s life during the war. Inliked skme if Robert’s story of tracking doen the oaintinfs and Sam. But i felt like overall it got bogged down in too many details of the art and the art world. To me that detracted from the overall narrative.
April 6, 2026
I love a WWII story that is well researched and makes me feel as if I am there. I want the author to write characters that make me feel like I am one of them. This story did all that. Sometimes I feel guilty in loving a war story. But there is so much more to the story than that. They are emotional, struggles, friendship and pulling together. A well researched story can also teach us history. Loved this story!
April 8, 2026
This book, The Lost Woman was about a woman Nicole that was a teenager during WWII when the nazi came to Paris and took the art from the family art gallery.
Nicole later in life wonders where several pieces of art that were their families personal art were taken and she hired Robert an art historian to find her family pieces.
There are several different people that all base around Nicole.
This is a tragic story about war and love. The cruelty of WWII and just trying to survive.
Nicole later in life wonders where several pieces of art that were their families personal art were taken and she hired Robert an art historian to find her family pieces.
There are several different people that all base around Nicole.
This is a tragic story about war and love. The cruelty of WWII and just trying to survive.
April 22, 2026
Loved this book even more than I expected! Dual timeline with so many deep, complex relationships. I've read a lot of World War II books, but never about the art, which was fascinating! Highly recommend this book if you love historical fiction. The whole story from both timelines came together flawlessly and I really enjoyed it!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC!
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