The Paris Architect: A Novel: A WWII Historical Tale of Resistance and Survival

by Charles Belfoure

Genres: Historical Fiction

Kindle Edition

Published October 8, 2013

About the author

Charles Belfoure is the New York Times bestselling author of The Paris Architect, House of Thieves and The Fallen Architect. An architect by profession, he graduated from the Pratt Institute and Columbia University, and he taught at Pratt as well as Goucher College in Baltimore, Maryland. His area of specialty is historic preservation. In addition to his historical fiction, Belfoure is also the award-winning author of several architectural histories, and has been a freelance writer for The Baltimore Sun and The New York Times. He lives in Westminster, Maryland.

source: Amazon

Reviews

[Nancy Norman Sommer]

The story gave me hope

Our current world is so messed up with people hating others because of their skin color, their language, where they live and who they love. It was nice to escape for a bit and experience the awakening Lucien has when he opens his eyes and thinks for himself without letting the hateful rhetoric guide his actions. So, even though this is fiction, it is a mirror to possibilities. Well written, great detail..

[Olivia Newman]

This isn't going to win any literary awards, but it was the perfect read for me at the perfect time. The story is set in occupied Paris, following a quite unlikeable Frenchman who begins designing factories for the Germans, all while being coerced into designing hiding places for Jews. Our protagonist is pretty unlikeable but has a great redemption arc. Gestapo interrogation intersperses the story creating tension, but the torture got a bit much towards the end and I found myself skimming.

[Maryann]

Such a wonderful read

With twists and turns, this story constantly poses the question to its readers: What do you think you’d do in the same situation? It’s easy to look back from your safe reading nook in 2026 and say you would make the honorable decision, but would you have been a mensch in 1943 in Paris? Or would it be all about the money?
Regular historical fiction readers with a few good WWII books under their belts will also recognize the Resistance in the descriptions of French women working in cafes. Little did the Germans know….

[Brea Buchmeier]

I’ve read too many books in a row that co-star torture & human suffering. I also think I’m burnt out on WWII historical fiction in general. That being said, the architectural angle of this WWII read was interesting to me. The writing isn’t rich but the story is well thought out with interesting little twists and a satisfying ending. The main character isn’t likable in the beginning but does evolve for the better.

[Judy Gordon]

I enjoyed the book and especially the audio version which was very effective with the different voices. The overall theme was interesting. The plight of the Paris architect and his relationships with the Germans, Reich members, girlfriends, children, Jews were well portrayed . But I felt there were too many subplots that detracted from the overall theme.

[Mary]

It was interesting to read about a character who was a reluctant hero.
Visiting Krakow and Auschwitz whilst reading this book enhanced the meaning of resistance and the importance of remembering g history and fighting fascism nowadays.

[Reader]

WWII fantastic read

At first I wasn't sure I would like this book; however, the main character grew on me as he became a mensch. Many people during the war did heroic deeds even though they could have been killed.

[Brady Nicosia]

As you can tell by the speed with which I read, this book was fire. It was so enthralling, well-written, and enjoyable! I read this at the recommendation of my Aunt Carol and absolutely loved it! Didn’t think I’d be a fan of historical fiction but I was proven wrong. Highly recommend

[H. Semon]

encouraging tale of survival

An enjoyable accounting of what it was like during the occupation without excessive focus on the brutality. It captures the reality of the emotions involved. A thrilling story.

[Jennifer Matchey]

Wow! Just Wow! It was hard to read because it truly mirrors what is happening in our country today but I kept on and was glad I did! Human compassion can truly save lives and alter history…. Bravo

[Jonathan Fulk]

This book gripped me and connects with so many of my personal interests. I finished feeling challenged to resist evil at all costs.

[Marge Julian]

An excellent read from start to finish.

[Laura O]

Good book! Well written with good character development!

[Grace Carlson]

This book actually scared me in some parts but I really enjoyed the characters and it was an interesting story and perspective on world war 2

[Joanne Beck]

Riveting. Good development of a conscience during critical times and taking action. Equally relevant today.

[Gayle Faherty]

3.5

[Amie Griffin]

Omg so good. I just am logging that I read this but I want to read this again sometime!