The Parisian Chapter: A Novel

by Janet Skeslien Charles

From the New York Times bestselling author of The Paris Library and Miss Morgan’s Book Brigade, a charming and cinematic novel following a young woman from Montana who takes a job in the American Library in Paris, where she discovers the power of storytelling and her own dreams.

Paris, 1995: It’s been five years since Lily Jacobsen and her best friend Mary Louise arrived in Paris from their small town of Froid, Montana. Determined to establish themselves as artists—Lily, a novelist, and Mary Louise, a painter—they share a tiny walkup and survive on brie and baguettes.

When Mary Louise abruptly moves out, Lily feels alone in the city of light for the first time and must find a new way to support herself. She lands a job as a programs manager at the American Library in Paris, following in the footsteps of Odile, her beloved French neighbor in Montana who told her stories of heroic World War II librarians when Lily was growing up.

Here in the storied halls of the ALP, she meets an incredible cast of characters—her favorite author, quirky coworkers, broke students, trailing spouses, haughty trustees, and devoted volunteers—each with their own stories... and agendas. Lily often seeks solace in the Afterlife, the library’s attic that’s home to hundreds of unpublished manuscripts, and there, she discovers a box of archives that may be a link to the to Odile’s own Parisian chapter.

This moving, propulsive story offers a panoramic view of a real historic institution, and revisits characters from both of Janet Skeslien Charles’s beloved novels. Lily’s story is a love letter to the artist’s life, friendship, and leaving home only to find it again.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Audiobook, Fiction, France, Books About Books, Historical, Paris

240 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 5, 2026

About the author

I'm the author of MISS MORGAN'S BOOK BRIGADE (THE LIBRARIANS OF RUE DE PICARDIE in the UK).

What you can expect from the story:
-A celebration strong women breaking down barriers and leaving their mark on history
-Lifelong friendships
-A wise dog named Max🐕
-History brought to life
-A return to the bodacious 1980s
-The comfort of books📚
-A trip to Paris
-Characters that feel like friends
-A headstrong French girl who will win your heart

While researching THE PARIS LIBRARY, I discovered another incredible librarian who travelled to France on her own. Like the directress Dorothy Reeder, my new heroine Jessie Carson believes in books as bridges.

Set in World War I France, Jessie prefers working in a war zone to life with her boss back home. The only way she can visit the City of Light is if she can find a job to pay her passage. The American Committee for Devastated France, an aid group that cares for civilians, hires her, and she is on her way.

In northern France, Jessie turns ambulances into bookmobiles and trains the first French female librarians. Then she disappears. I was dying to know what happened to her. The story had plenty of twists and turns, leading me to The Morgan Library and Museum, the New York Public Library, and the Franco-American Museum in France. I hope you’ll enjoy tracking down this elusive librarian as much as I did.

I can’t wait for you to discover this new book! For more news, sign up for my newsletter: https://jskesliencharles.substack.com...

Reviews

[Angela M · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

I wanted to read this book because I very much enjoyed The Paris Library and was anxious to meet again the lovely young girl Lily, now an adult who was befriended by Odile her next door neighbor, a former Librarian at the American Library in Paris. In that book it was Odile whose story that touched me telling of the role of the ALP in helping to bring books to its Jewish patrons and the role the librarians there played in saving them in the 1940’s. It’s about hope and love and friendship, the story of the ALP .

In this novel, Lily is the main character among a cast of characters ranging from librarians, patrons, board members, volunteers , each with their own story, yet connected through the American Library in Paris . In alternating points of view, the novel reflects on art and literature, and their hardships and friendships in 1995. It’s also about hope and love, but for me lacked the depth and significance of The Paris Library and there was just a bit too much emphasis on romance for my taste. Having said that I recommend it to those who enjoyed the first book.

I received a copy of this book from Atria through NetGalley.

[Tracey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a well-written, entertaining historical fiction novel which is based on actual persons and events. It is fast paced and engaging, with a diverse group of interesting characters, and is an excellent addition to The Paris Library. I listened to the audiobook, which is well-narrated by full cast of talented actors.

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 3 out of 5]

While this didn’t grab my attention in the same way that Miss Morgan’s Book Brigade did, it was still an interesting peek behind the curtain at the American Library in Paris.

I think the thing I had the most difficulty with was the wide range of characters. I’d just get introduced to one character and want to know more before another chapter started, and I was introduced to yet another character. I don’t think I’ve ever read a book with so many characters to keep straight. I felt like one of those performing plate spinners, weary of keeping it all together. I understand that the author wanted to show how each was influenced by the lure of the library and that the plot was designed to have chapters cycling through the experiences of these characters, but it was too much work for me. I just wanted to read to be entertained and learn something.

I enjoyed the spotlight on friendships, the value of communication, the difficulties in keeping a balance and the importance of history. The slice of 1955 Paris opened my eyes to the subtle changes this city of light has undergone.

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Erin · Rating 2 out of 5]

Love this author, but I couldn't get invested in this one. This novel promised to be a great follow-up to The Paris Library, as it follows Lily and her adventures in Paris. There are a lot of character perspectives and storylines woven in the book that run aside Lily's own. Suffice it to say, it wasn't working for me. I didn't feel like I had the hook that kept wanting to read it, and while these were all likeable characters, I felt like I was standing in an alley looking into the window where all the characters were, but I couldn't join them.

Now it is more than likely that it could be a book I re-read in the future, and it does work for me. Don't let my 2-star rating deter you because there are a lot of 5 and 4-star ratings that trump mine.


Publication Date 05/05/26
Goodreads Review 09/05/26
Thanks to NetGalley and Atria Books for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Mardi Michels · Rating 5 out of 5]

With thanks to the author for an advance copy of the audiobook.

This book blew me away. It's the first audiobook I have finished - ever! - as I find that I am not able to focus on them as well as with physical books. However, I made an exception for this one as I am a huge fan of Janet's previous work. I am glad I took a chance on this one - and I found myself engrossed the whole way. I was so annoyed that life was getting in the way of my listening!

The book is told from multiple POV and is narrated by a full cast of characters (notably the charming Pauline Chalamet) which helped me keep track of the storylines. I was enchanted by this for so many reasons, not the least being that it is set in 1995, the year *I* moved to Paris and lived in a "chambre de bonne" myself - there was so much about this that brought back memories of what was a challenging time in my life but one on which I look back with great fondness. And, I mean, the fact that this is set in a library - one of my favourite places on earth - was the icing on the cake. I have actually done an event at the ALP myself when my own book came out so it was really interesting hearing the inner musings of the Programme Director!

I absolutely LOVED this book and can't wait to read the story again in paperback when it eventually comes out!

[Cara Putman · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a sweet audiobook. A sweet follow up to the earlier book

[Bre · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley, Janet Skeslien Charles and Simon & Schuster Audio for this audiobook ARC. I will be giving my honest review.
I have always wanted but never been to Paris. While it is still high on my list this book offered a sweet escape there to hold me over until then.
It was so much fun to hear about her love for Paris and learn about the ALP (American Library in Paris)
The narration was superb with a cast of voices and most notably Pauline Chalamet from The Sex Lives of College Girls. And don’t even get me started on the chapter breaks where the music sounded like my fave nostalgic PBS tunes.
It was a fast pace read that kept me engaged throughout. I also loved the little nuggets of wisdom sprinkled throughout. For example I will enjoy any signs of age on my face since like the book says “books have lines and if we’re lucky our faces have lines with stories to tell.” Oooh and to always keep champagne in the fridge so I’ll find reasons to celebrate

[Laurel · Rating 2 out of 5]

I wanted to like this, it had a lot of promise, an interesting setting, some compelling characters that were well narrated by talented voice actors… but in the end, it seemed like a lot of production for an only ok story.

Thanks to NetGalley for an opportunity to read this advance reader copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Mishawn · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 This audiobook wrapped up and updated us on what those wonderful characters were up to since the Paris Library. It was cute. It didn’t really add too much but nostalgic memories. I didn’t mind the stroll back to Paris. It did make me want to go back and reread the first book and Their Eyes were watching God. It gets another mention and in my review 2years ago I said I was bumping it up my list. Maybe this year I will get to it so I can see why the character loved it so much.

[Literary Redhead · Rating 4 out of 5]

A wonderful histfic story set in the American Library in Paris in 1995. Editing out some of the many characters would have made for greater clarity, but I loved this engaging literary tale overall. Recommended!

[Abby | abbysbookadventure · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

In the mood for an easy and immersive listen? Look no further!

After reading The Paris Library years ago, I was excited to see that a follow up was coming in the form of an audio original (so it only exists as an audiobook). The full cast narration led by Pauline Chalamet really brings 90’s Paris to life. This book is about growing into yourself, the power of female friendships, and books. I loved being back at the ALP (The American Library in Paris) and meeting a whole new cast of characters who find comfort in the library and books. This book is short and breezy and just so easy to listen to.

I’d recommend you read The Paris Library first, as events are referenced and parts would be spoiled. That one was really good on audio too. I haven’t read Miss Morgan’s Book Brigade yet but know characters were referenced from that one too, though it seems less critical to have read that before this.

Thank you, Libro.FM and Atria Books for the gifted ALC.

[bookscoffeeandcats77 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was immediately drawn in by the setting. I loved the descriptions and the accents. I enjoyed learning more about the ALP (American Library In Paris). It’s quite a cast of characters and I enjoyed the changing viewpoints. I really liked Lily. Hers was somewhat of a coming of age story with navigating a new country, new job, friendship issues and romance.

I loved the full cast and cinematic narration. It really added to the story.

Readers of this authors previous books will appreciate revisiting with some characters from those books. I plan on checking out her backlist books.

Thank you to @simon.audio and Janet Skeslien Charles for the ALC of this audiobook!

[Ceylan (CeyGo) · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had a lot of fun listening to this #fullcast audio book . There is a historical fiction element to it for sure, as well as a mystery, some friend drama, and well a library ! Although this was a great standalone story, in retrospect, I probably should have read The Paris Library - which has been on my #tbr since it first came out - first ! I only realized after there were some connections to the Paris Library

My rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

[Marie Girulat · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to @jskesliencharles and @simon.audio for the #gifted audiobook!

Set in Paris 1995, Lily Jacobsen is an aspiring artist struggling to find her footing after her best friend Mary Louise moves out. She gets a job as the programs manager at the American Library, inspired by her hero, a WWII librarian. She encounters a diverse group of characters and faces challenges, including financial troubles at the library. As she navigates her new role and the aftermath of her friend’s departure, Lily learns about friendship, community, and the quest for belonging.

This captivating story chronicles Lily’s transformative journey as she comes of age while navigating a new country, a challenging job, friendship dynamics, and budding romance. The story unfolds through the perspectives of multiple narrators, each providing insights into the interconnected lives of those tied to the library throughout the years. While I thoroughly enjoyed the exploration of these characters, I felt that the sheer number of them sometimes blurred the story’s focus.

The full cast and cinematic narration, led by the talented Pauline Chalamet, infused each character with depth and emotion, creating an immersive experience reminiscent of a riveting radio drama.

This book is a quick read, and it features familiar characters from the author's previous works. If you appreciate coming-of-age stories, this book is a must-read. Mark your calendars for its release on May 27, 2025!

[Rebekah (bekahsbookshelf_24) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Format: ebook (ARC- thanks NetGalley!)

When I saw that Janet Skeslien Charles had written another book in "The Paris Library" world, I couldn't get my hands on it fast enough! I loved "The Paris Library", and loved this novel just as much, if not more. There were so many small references and hints towards "The Paris Library", I would definitely recommend reading it first.

There were a lot of characters, which can be a little tricky to keep track of; however, I loved all the characters, and so I was grateful to have such great perspectives from each of them. Charles does a wonderful job at writing characters that you love, and that you love to hate.

There was a little more descriptive romance in this book compared to the other ones, but still nothing graphic. I would still say this book is safe for young adult and adult readers.

If you've read and loved "The Paris Library", or love books about libraries in general, this is a must read!






----------spoilers ahead-----------






While I absolutely loved that Odile made up with Margaret, I thought the reconciliation was described a little rushed in the book. It was built up so much that I thought it would be a bigger scene than it was.

I thought the chapter with the library's POV was so unique and beautiful! It originally felt a little strange to get a building's perspective, but I came to love it.

[McKenna Johnson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Audiobook Review⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you to @Simon.Audio and the author @jskesliencharles for the #gifted audiobook.

Release Date: 05/27/2025

Janet Skeslien Charles once again brings history to life with The Parisian Chapter, a charming and cinematic novel that whisks readers—and listeners—away to the heart of Paris. This historical fiction gem follows a young woman from Montana who lands an unexpected job at the American Library in Paris. There, surrounded by stories and history, she begins to write her own Parisian chapter.

Told through multiple points of view, the audiobook format truly elevates the experience. The full-cast narration, led beautifully by Pauline Chalamet, adds layers of personality and emotion to each character. The multicast made it feel more like an immersive radio drama than a traditional audiobook, making it easy to get swept up in the world of books, courage, and connection.

Skeslien Charles balances historical depth with personal discovery, exploring the power of storytelling and the resilience of those who fight to preserve it. Whether you’re a fan of WWII-era fiction or simply love tales set in the City of Light, The Parisian Chapter is a heartfelt and inspiring listen.

Perfect for fans of: historical fiction, libraries, strong female leads, and beautifully produced audiobooks.

[Brittany · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Parisian Chapter is such an enchanting story! It’s a multi-cast audiobook following Lily Jacobsen who lands a job working at the American Library in Paris during the 90’s. This deals with female friendships, learning to let go and stresses the importance of libraries.

When I saw this on Netgalley it was an immediate request but I was even more excited when I realized it featured Lily who was introduced in The Paris Library. While not required, I do recommend reading The Paris Library and Miss Morgan's Book Brigade first because this does include/mention a few other characters from those books. I loved revisiting Odile and Margaret and learning about what’s become of them in the 40 years since the events of The Paris Library.

The full-cast narration was phenomenal! It was so immersive and easy for me to follow along and keep track of who was who.

I’ve loved every book I’ve read by Janet Skeslien Charles and can’t wait for her next release!

Many thanks to Netgalley and Simon & Schuster Audio for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.

[Kristen Cook - A Book Ninja · Rating 3 out of 5]

I was excited to receive an ARC of The Parisian Chapter by Janet Skeslien Charles because I enjoyed two of her previous books: The Paris Library and Miss Morgan's Book Brigade.

Two childhood friends move to Paris from their small town in Montana. Mary Louise and Lily are determined to be artists and what better place than Paris. Mary Louise suddenly moves out of their apartment leaving Lily alone.

This is a story with multiple points of view. The thing that tripped me up was all of the voices were in first person. With the POV changing every chapter, it would take me some time to figure out which character I was reading and what their story was so far.

I did find the information about American Library in Paris fascinating.

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley and Atria Books in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a great story of two friends moving to Paris in 1995 from their home in Montana, to become an artist. Lily is a writer and the other one, Mary Louise is a painter.
At one point they separate to find there own path, and lily ends up getting a job at the ALP, (American Library in Paris) and loves it, as her neighbor in Montana, was a french woman, Odele, who had worked there during the war, and someone who had become a good friend of hers. Lily did not seem to have the time to write like she wanted to.
Mary Louise painted a lot, but hadn't found a Niche for her art and felt discouraged, but she did meet someone she was happy with.
A lot of great characters to get to know in this novel, and the fun of getting to see how these two friends achieve their goals.
I read The Paris Library as well, and that story tells you about some of the same characters you will read about in this book, but a story which took place both in 1939 Paris and 1983 Montana.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Atria Books for a copy of this book.

[Kayla | baeslerbookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 ⭐️

I listened to the audiobook version, which is performed by a full cast. The story centers on Lily, who is a World War II-era librarian—takes on a role as the programs director at the American Library. The library is struggling financially, and Lily’s journey unfolds from there. There are quite a few characters to keep track of, which made it a bit tricky to follow at times in audio format and made the plot seem a little slow at times as well.

Published: May 27th, 2025

Thank you NetGalley & Janet Skeslein Charles for this #gifted eARC!

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m torn with this book. I really didn’t like the main character. I thought she was naive, selfish and whiny. I liked the how book shifted perspective but I would get annoyed each time it shifted back to Lily and I want to hear from others. I thought their stories were far more interesting. That said, I read this fast than most audiobooks as I kept going back for more and I still can’t put my finger on why. The American Library in Paris is an interesting place that I didn’t know much about but the peripheral characters were the most interesting. The 50 year volunteer, the gulf war vet, the homeless man and the trustees, I wanted more of them and much less of Lily.

[Megan Carrington · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not nearly as good as the first book. The girls moved to Paris and it seems aged at least 10 years while not moving on with their lives. It seems silly to think they would not have visited home or had any major life changes during the whole period.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Literary fiction about a library in Paris - yes please. The many POVs and descriptions of the American Library in Paris were vivid and enjoyable. I also liked the advice to always keep champagne in the fridge in order to find reasons to celebrate and embrace lines on our face because like books they have stories to tell. The theme of friendships needing balance and communication was a good one also.

The book kept many characters from her previous books, but was less of historical fiction and more escapist reading. Still highly enjoyable.

Thank you to NetGalley, Atria Books / Simon & Schuster, and Janet Skeslien Charles for the eARC in exchange for a review.

[Kelly Earls · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great follow up book to The Paris Library. The narration on this audiobook was amazing. Great read!

[Bobbi]

DNF @51%. I’m not going to rate the book since I didn’t finish it. I liked the fact that it had so many people narrating it, but the story itself I didn’t find interesting.

[Sheila · Rating 3 out of 5]

“If you keep a bottle of champagne in your refrigerator, you’ll always find something to celebrate.” 🍾🥂

[Patti · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book follows two girls who dream of moving to Paris. The chapters alternate with different characters telling the story. I found it confusing. I really wanted to like this book but unfortunately it wasn’t for me.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was fun to revisit some of the characters from The Paris Library (I still need to read Miss Morgan's Book Brigade, but some of those are present too). After Lily Jacobsen obtains a job at the American Library in Paris, she meets new friends and struggles to help the library raise funds. The new generation of characters each have their own interesting back story.

Thanks to the publishers at NetGalley for the advance copy.

[Cheryl Sokoloff · Rating 5 out of 5]

I actually listened to the audiobook by Simon & Schuster. I have read and enjoyed Janet’s previous books, and now I enjoyed this one too! If you love libraries AND you love stories about Paris, pick this one up. It stresses the critical role of The American Library in Paris over the years.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️