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Where do you go to
When the young Marie-Claire wakes up in Rome, she has no idea who she is or how she got there. Her tale of adversity starts in the biting cold, her past unknown and her future uncertain. Our heroine gets adopted from the Marcigliana orphanage by a French diplomat, initiating a journey of self-discovery across post-World War II Europe. In Athens, she discovers a talent for ballet, which gets elevated to greater heights when the family moves to Moscow at the height of the Cold War. Marie-Claire blooms into a social butterfly, joining the high society in Paris and mingling in social circles with the famous singers, writers, and artists who inhabit the City of Light in the early 1960s. Her marvelous travels across Europe include adventurous summer vacations in the French Riviera, weekends at the family country estate in Chantilly and winters in snowy St Moritz.
Interspersed with the coming of age tale of her young life, is her attendance of an embassy party in Paris as a young woman in 1965. Now a student at the Sorbonne, Marie-Claire meets up with figures from her past in the Soviet embassy and faces a painful reminder of an event which forever changed her life in Moscow.
The epic account of Marie-Claire’s life is an enthralling literary adaptation of Peter Sarstedt’s famous song, celebrating 50 years since he won the 1969 Ivor Novello award for “Where do you go to (my lovely)?” The mystery of her origins is finally uncovered, revealing the tragic time prior to that cold night in Rome, bringing an unexpected end to her persistent nightmares and morning tears.
"The author paints picture after picture of the most stunning cities and landscapes in Europe during the 1950's and 1960's. The far-reaching consequences of World War II and the communist regime are intertwined throughout the story. Author Jean Cerfontaine has skillfully crafted an intriguing historical fictional work in Where Do You Go To. It is an unforgettable book!" - Readers' Favorite
Interspersed with the coming of age tale of her young life, is her attendance of an embassy party in Paris as a young woman in 1965. Now a student at the Sorbonne, Marie-Claire meets up with figures from her past in the Soviet embassy and faces a painful reminder of an event which forever changed her life in Moscow.
The epic account of Marie-Claire’s life is an enthralling literary adaptation of Peter Sarstedt’s famous song, celebrating 50 years since he won the 1969 Ivor Novello award for “Where do you go to (my lovely)?” The mystery of her origins is finally uncovered, revealing the tragic time prior to that cold night in Rome, bringing an unexpected end to her persistent nightmares and morning tears.
"The author paints picture after picture of the most stunning cities and landscapes in Europe during the 1950's and 1960's. The far-reaching consequences of World War II and the communist regime are intertwined throughout the story. Author Jean Cerfontaine has skillfully crafted an intriguing historical fictional work in Where Do You Go To. It is an unforgettable book!" - Readers' Favorite
295 pages, ebook
First published December 17, 2018
36 people are currently reading
111 people want to read
About the author
Jean Cerfontaine
2 books14 followersJean Cerfontaine is an award winning South African author with research interests. During his PhD and MBA studies, he became involved in non-fiction writing and published two academic works through Lambert Academic Publishing. Since then, he has published various non-fiction pieces on Healthcare Policy under his real name in the South African press, including the Business Day newspaper. "Where do you go to" is his debut fiction work. He is married and lives in Palmerston North, New Zealand
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
October 31, 2019
Finding Marie-Claire
This is an excellent story of war torn Germany and the chaos that plagued the lives of many of that time.
The story starts with a young girl who is lost and does not remember who she is. Becoming a charge of the church in Rome she is given a new name and would begin a new life. Finding a family in her adoptive parents the Le Blancs, Marie-Claire is plagued by a lifetime of dreams she cannot quite understand. Living the life any girl would dream of the story takes you through the life and events of the child of the ambassador of France. Finding passions that are turned to hate and desires that are turned to agony, follow the life of Marie-Claire from unknown beginnings to finding herself.
This is an excellent book. Aside from some minor grammatical errors and a bit of confusion in the back and forth from past to present, the story is an amazing read.
This is an excellent story of war torn Germany and the chaos that plagued the lives of many of that time.
The story starts with a young girl who is lost and does not remember who she is. Becoming a charge of the church in Rome she is given a new name and would begin a new life. Finding a family in her adoptive parents the Le Blancs, Marie-Claire is plagued by a lifetime of dreams she cannot quite understand. Living the life any girl would dream of the story takes you through the life and events of the child of the ambassador of France. Finding passions that are turned to hate and desires that are turned to agony, follow the life of Marie-Claire from unknown beginnings to finding herself.
This is an excellent book. Aside from some minor grammatical errors and a bit of confusion in the back and forth from past to present, the story is an amazing read.
June 12, 2019
This book starts off strong with a curious hook that leaves readers wanting more. I was drawn into the novel by the mystery of Marie-Claire's story and found myself captivated by the plot, which is filled with twists and turns. The adventurer inside of me was excited by the exotic locations the main character and her family travelled to and lived in.
As the book nears the end, things starts to get very interesting! The unravelled threads we follow throughout the story finally weave together in the most heartwarming way. I have to say I did not see the final plot twist coming until just before the big reveal. The author does an incredible job at bringing the characters' storylines to a close, so you do not feel left hanging to interpret what happened to the rest of their lives.
My one challenge with the novel was that Marie-Claire's character seemed "too perfect" throughout the novel, as she was able to pick up any language, dance to perfection, and was captivating to all. I would have liked to see her flaws or challenges portrayed a bit more to create some depth to her character, but I do appreciate that the author writes in the hardships she faced as a young girl. This didn't impact how much I enjoyed the novel, I just feel it would have given more of a human element to Marie-Claire.
Overall, this book was a great read filled with plot twists, mystery, arts and culture, and it will fulfill the wanderlust desires inside of anyone who reads it.
**I received this book at no charge from the author via the Booktasters community in exchange for an honest review.**
As the book nears the end, things starts to get very interesting! The unravelled threads we follow throughout the story finally weave together in the most heartwarming way. I have to say I did not see the final plot twist coming until just before the big reveal. The author does an incredible job at bringing the characters' storylines to a close, so you do not feel left hanging to interpret what happened to the rest of their lives.
My one challenge with the novel was that Marie-Claire's character seemed "too perfect" throughout the novel, as she was able to pick up any language, dance to perfection, and was captivating to all. I would have liked to see her flaws or challenges portrayed a bit more to create some depth to her character, but I do appreciate that the author writes in the hardships she faced as a young girl. This didn't impact how much I enjoyed the novel, I just feel it would have given more of a human element to Marie-Claire.
Overall, this book was a great read filled with plot twists, mystery, arts and culture, and it will fulfill the wanderlust desires inside of anyone who reads it.
**I received this book at no charge from the author via the Booktasters community in exchange for an honest review.**
April 8, 2019
An enchanting coming-of-age story with a difference. Lovely characters, and an interesting insight into the world of a diplomat. Well written detailed descriptions throughout. Recommended.
March 21, 2019
Book Title: Where do you go to
Author: Jean Cerfontaine
Format: E-Book
Book Title:
The title of the book is ‘Where do you go to’ is interesting and intriguing.
Book Cover:
The cover of the book is a digital image of a young lady posing in a typical blue party attire on the streets of Paris. The Eiffel tower is also seen in the backdrop.
Plot:
The cold and shrilling nights of Paris, the soothing weather and a popular song by a famous artist has changed the life of a young lady. The plot of the story is set in the late 1960s with Marie-Claire as the protagonist. She is an orphan who was adopted by the French Diplomat who sets his journey to explore the European countries. She is a beautiful lady and a free bird who mingles with everyone she liked and adored. As she grows up, she finds the interest in the ballet and reaches heights in it. The travel and exploration of the places gave her immense pleasure and happiness. She loved the adventurous summer vacations and weekends spot which always kept her in action and lifted up her spirit.
Her past life is like a closed book, which is lost in her thoughts, forgotten but remained in her life. Her present and future were the only things which kept her on toes. Suddenly, the book of her past life opens up and all the secrets and forgotten incidents get unveiled, taking her back into the flashback.
The song 'Where do you go to' by Ivor Novello will play a crucial role in the story.
What are the secrets of her life? Who left her at the orphanage? What changes will she face in her life after learning about her past life? Will she be able to live her life normally after the incident? What impact did the song 'Where do you go to' made?
Well, read the interesting and beautifully written story by Jean Cerfontaine about a young lady Marie-Claire, who is on a happening journey of life.
What I like:
The author nailed each and every scene with his brilliant writing skills. The book is the perfect blend of characterization, narration, and plot which leaves the reader in a whole different world. The author's research on various places in European countries and other real-time events is brilliant and make the story non-fictitious. The real story is weaved, by presenting the song 'Where do you go to?” which was unexpected and thrilling. The book will keep you glued to it until you finish it. The author has done a perfect job by planning the scenes and plot perfectly. In many aspects, this book is a perfect read and loved it to the core.
What I didn’t like:
In particular, there are no negatives points in it. The narration and the plot were just perfect.
Characters:
The author has designed the characters very well and the portrayal of each and every character is quite decent. The protagonist character Marie-Claire's character is perfectly portrayed and the author has elevated her nature with his beautiful writing skills. The reader can almost feel the character at certain points.
All the characters will embark an impression in your mind.
Narration:
The life of this story is the narration which is clear and the author has expressed the scenes in a convincing way. The utmost care has been taking while designing and narrating the story.
Language & Grammar:
A clear language with neat and uncomplicated grammar is used in the book
My Final Verdict:
A brilliant and intriguing book which will take the reader to the next level and make them feel and experience the environment of the 1960s. All the scenes and places will embark an impression on the reader's mind. The emotions of all the characters are conveyed very well. loved the writing skills and the narration style of the author, Jean Cerfontaine.
Book Title: 4/5
Book Cover: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Narration: 4/5
Language & Grammar: 4/5
Final Rating:4/5
Author: Jean Cerfontaine
Format: E-Book
Book Title:
The title of the book is ‘Where do you go to’ is interesting and intriguing.
Book Cover:
The cover of the book is a digital image of a young lady posing in a typical blue party attire on the streets of Paris. The Eiffel tower is also seen in the backdrop.
Plot:
The cold and shrilling nights of Paris, the soothing weather and a popular song by a famous artist has changed the life of a young lady. The plot of the story is set in the late 1960s with Marie-Claire as the protagonist. She is an orphan who was adopted by the French Diplomat who sets his journey to explore the European countries. She is a beautiful lady and a free bird who mingles with everyone she liked and adored. As she grows up, she finds the interest in the ballet and reaches heights in it. The travel and exploration of the places gave her immense pleasure and happiness. She loved the adventurous summer vacations and weekends spot which always kept her in action and lifted up her spirit.
Her past life is like a closed book, which is lost in her thoughts, forgotten but remained in her life. Her present and future were the only things which kept her on toes. Suddenly, the book of her past life opens up and all the secrets and forgotten incidents get unveiled, taking her back into the flashback.
The song 'Where do you go to' by Ivor Novello will play a crucial role in the story.
What are the secrets of her life? Who left her at the orphanage? What changes will she face in her life after learning about her past life? Will she be able to live her life normally after the incident? What impact did the song 'Where do you go to' made?
Well, read the interesting and beautifully written story by Jean Cerfontaine about a young lady Marie-Claire, who is on a happening journey of life.
What I like:
The author nailed each and every scene with his brilliant writing skills. The book is the perfect blend of characterization, narration, and plot which leaves the reader in a whole different world. The author's research on various places in European countries and other real-time events is brilliant and make the story non-fictitious. The real story is weaved, by presenting the song 'Where do you go to?” which was unexpected and thrilling. The book will keep you glued to it until you finish it. The author has done a perfect job by planning the scenes and plot perfectly. In many aspects, this book is a perfect read and loved it to the core.
What I didn’t like:
In particular, there are no negatives points in it. The narration and the plot were just perfect.
Characters:
The author has designed the characters very well and the portrayal of each and every character is quite decent. The protagonist character Marie-Claire's character is perfectly portrayed and the author has elevated her nature with his beautiful writing skills. The reader can almost feel the character at certain points.
All the characters will embark an impression in your mind.
Narration:
The life of this story is the narration which is clear and the author has expressed the scenes in a convincing way. The utmost care has been taking while designing and narrating the story.
Language & Grammar:
A clear language with neat and uncomplicated grammar is used in the book
My Final Verdict:
A brilliant and intriguing book which will take the reader to the next level and make them feel and experience the environment of the 1960s. All the scenes and places will embark an impression on the reader's mind. The emotions of all the characters are conveyed very well. loved the writing skills and the narration style of the author, Jean Cerfontaine.
Book Title: 4/5
Book Cover: 4/5
Plot: 4/5
Characters: 4/5
Narration: 4/5
Language & Grammar: 4/5
Final Rating:4/5
July 1, 2019
I thought it was a good book with wonderful insights to travel in Paris. The author was very descriptive in his writing style, which I like. I was looking for more of a page-turner within the storyline. I still think it was a pretty good book.
July 1, 2019
A great novel, beautiful depiction of the characters with some tense moments thrown into the mix. Will definitely pick more books by this talented author.
April 28, 2019
Marie-Claire does not know who she is. She does not remember anything beyond bumping her head and laying down in the Church where it is warm. When she wakes up, she is in a orphanage run by nuns. There she settles into a life of day to day, wondering if she will ever be adopted, and what the future will hold for her.
When a chance encounter brings a new life to her, she embarks on a glittering journey as an embassadors daughter. Easily able to learn languages, she is able to adapt to the surroundings that they find themselves in. She immerses herself in art and ballet, expressing herself and searching for her past.
When her father is stationed in Russia, she is invited to join one of the premier ballet schools and there begins her journey into the life of a ballerina. As time progresses, along with her skills, she discovers that her father is being blackmailed by a few members of the KGB. Angered, she storms out of the school, refusing to go back. After explaining to her parents why she made that decision, they back her up and send her back to Paris to study art.
The thought of where she came from is still in the back of her mind, and a chance encounter just might break open the memories that she has suppressed for many years…
A fabulous and flowing tale of the journey of a young woman as she navigates the many political and intricacies of life. This book was amazing, and one that was captivating from the start. I had a hard time putting this book down, and I would highly recommend this book to anyone that enjoys historical fiction, especially from post World War II, and through the Cold War. A great journey on the road to discovering one's self.
When a chance encounter brings a new life to her, she embarks on a glittering journey as an embassadors daughter. Easily able to learn languages, she is able to adapt to the surroundings that they find themselves in. She immerses herself in art and ballet, expressing herself and searching for her past.
When her father is stationed in Russia, she is invited to join one of the premier ballet schools and there begins her journey into the life of a ballerina. As time progresses, along with her skills, she discovers that her father is being blackmailed by a few members of the KGB. Angered, she storms out of the school, refusing to go back. After explaining to her parents why she made that decision, they back her up and send her back to Paris to study art.
The thought of where she came from is still in the back of her mind, and a chance encounter just might break open the memories that she has suppressed for many years…
A fabulous and flowing tale of the journey of a young woman as she navigates the many political and intricacies of life. This book was amazing, and one that was captivating from the start. I had a hard time putting this book down, and I would highly recommend this book to anyone that enjoys historical fiction, especially from post World War II, and through the Cold War. A great journey on the road to discovering one's self.
March 1, 2019
What a phenomenally written story of Marie-Claire’s journey into self discovery. In a time of war and chaos, this is a coming of age story that brings plenty of revelations and confusion. The storytelling is incredible and puts you right in the story, feeling every emotion. I won’t spill any spoilers - this is one that you’ll have to dive into for yourself. An absolute must read!
December 26, 2019
It appears that I may be in the minority when it comes to Jean Cerfontaine’s WHERE DO YOU GO TO since I have mixed emotions about the book.
First, the author took the entire premise for the novel from the 60’s Peter Sarstedt song of the same title. Granted, he did embellish some of the situations and added a bit here and there but, for the most part, readers could have saved hours of reading time by listening to the song. (The situation is reminiscent of most of the recent James Patterson offerings. Patterson creates “plot outlines” for stories and contracts with other writers who do the actual writing). In this instance Sarstedt built the house (so to speak) by creating the song and thereby the plot and Cerfontaine was the interior designer who took the house, hung the drapes, placed the furniture and turned the house into a home.
The narrative is simple and effortless evoking a protagonist whose adventures, while somewhat unbelievable, still manage to engage the reader by making the ripples produced by one situation so involving, you just can’t pull away. While the story has a certain YA fairy tale quality, Cerfontaine manages to show his readers that even when your memory fails …..you still have your heart.
First, the author took the entire premise for the novel from the 60’s Peter Sarstedt song of the same title. Granted, he did embellish some of the situations and added a bit here and there but, for the most part, readers could have saved hours of reading time by listening to the song. (The situation is reminiscent of most of the recent James Patterson offerings. Patterson creates “plot outlines” for stories and contracts with other writers who do the actual writing). In this instance Sarstedt built the house (so to speak) by creating the song and thereby the plot and Cerfontaine was the interior designer who took the house, hung the drapes, placed the furniture and turned the house into a home.
The narrative is simple and effortless evoking a protagonist whose adventures, while somewhat unbelievable, still manage to engage the reader by making the ripples produced by one situation so involving, you just can’t pull away. While the story has a certain YA fairy tale quality, Cerfontaine manages to show his readers that even when your memory fails …..you still have your heart.
January 3, 2019
Lovely, easy read! Epic novel, based on the Peter Sarstedt song of the (almost) same name. I have always wondered what the back story of Marie-Claire would be, and this is a plausible and enjoyable version. Can appreciate the amount of research it must have taken to keep it true to the times. I am sure those that havent heard the song would be able to enjoy the book as an independently written story of the life journey of Marie-Claire le Blanc.
Set in post WWII Europe, her travels and trials across the continent are wonderfully described with picturesque scetches of her surroundings in France, Italy, Greece, the USSR and Switzerland. Also glorious homages to Paris in the 60s.
Two Thumbs up and well worth the time
Set in post WWII Europe, her travels and trials across the continent are wonderfully described with picturesque scetches of her surroundings in France, Italy, Greece, the USSR and Switzerland. Also glorious homages to Paris in the 60s.
Two Thumbs up and well worth the time
May 11, 2019
Received a complimentary copy in exchange for an honest review.
In an era pre-technology, the reader goes along for the ride with Marie Claire from orphanage to life of a diplomats daughter where the locales like Greece, Moscow, French Riviera, St. Moritz are so descriptive you can almost feel the sun on your skin from the Riviera and the warmth of the fire after a day in the cold of St. Moritz.
Despite her rise in the social ranks throughout her impressionable years, her gratitude and appreciation for her parents never waned as she discovers who she is.
In an era pre-technology, the reader goes along for the ride with Marie Claire from orphanage to life of a diplomats daughter where the locales like Greece, Moscow, French Riviera, St. Moritz are so descriptive you can almost feel the sun on your skin from the Riviera and the warmth of the fire after a day in the cold of St. Moritz.
Despite her rise in the social ranks throughout her impressionable years, her gratitude and appreciation for her parents never waned as she discovers who she is.
February 23, 2019
Based on the song by Peter Sarstedt . Read this beautiful piece for Marie Claire and her beautiful journey of life from an orphanage to turning a beautiful lady.. Wonderful writing and a great research work set on pre technology Era. A peaceful world experienced by those habitants without any mobile or email.. Waiting for Jean's next book on Marie..
February 16, 2019
I would have liked it if there had been a little bit more communication between Marie-Claire La Blanc and the orphanage once she had been adopted. This was one I quite enjoyed, and got a copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 27, 2019
I can't rate my own book, but can definitely recommend it, if you are fond of the simpler times before cellphones, faxes and the internet; Traveling through Europe, or a Peter Sarstedt fan.
August 16, 2019
Where Do You Go To tells the adventure of young Marie-Claire’s bold, artistic, aristocratic life. Being an orphan and without her memories, her life is a bit of a mystery. Throughout the story, she keeps discovering little things about her identity. Though small, the insights hint at her past. This mystery follows her quietly as she embraces the new life given to her by her adopted parents. From a young age, Marie-Claire is gifted for languages and a love for fine arts. She takes this love and grows it into a professional talent for dancing and painting. Through her parent’s diplomatic career and her art, she travels about until she finds herself settled in Paris. This was a wonderful coming-of-age story is full of passion for fine art, culture and traveling. I thought in the beginning that Marie-Claire was too dismissive of misfortune. She’s introduced with nothing, not even a name, experiences bullying, and witnesses a tragedy. But as I read on and she grows older she begins to recognize and experience the unfairness of life. It creates a relatable experience of naïve youth learning about the world. I think that many can relate to, myself included. When she goes to school, she finds new adventures that are bold, exciting, and even a bit dangerous in one instance. It’s a time of experimenting, trying new things, testing love and really finding yourself. Throughout the story, she surprises me with her witty-humor and sarcasm. For example, she names a few characters “Fatty and Baldy”. Not only is Marie-Claire’s story wonderful, but the world of fine art she’s brings to us. The art world she lives and inspires I haven’t felt since my days at a fine arts camp in Michigan where professional dancers often visited us. When I read about Marie-Claire gazing up at the Sistine chapel, taking high leaps across the stage, and painting emotions across the canvas I am reminded of the awe I felt when admiring the fine arts. I would absolutely love to one day see this book in picture. Where Do You Go To is beautifully written and would be well-loved by readers who also share a love for fine arts, traveling and adventure.
February 8, 2020
This story was inspired by a song by Peter Sarstedt, “Where do you go to my lovely” you should listen to it, as it is quite beautiful and you can see where his inspiration came from.
This is the story of a young girl, who wakes up on a street in Rome after having fallen from a truck with no memories of her past.
Sent to an orphanage and later, adopted by a French diplomat and his wife. Marie Claire's life becomes a whirlwind of opportunity and travel.
Ever since the accident, Marie Claire would always wake up crying with the memory of someone lying on the street surrounded by blood, but never knowing what it meant.
I thoroughly, enjoyed the story even though at times it seemed a bit far fetch as this was a girl that was naturally gifted in anything she decided to do.
Shortly after her adoption, the family moved from Rome, to Greece and then to Russia and then back to France, as her fathers job as an ambassador, moved him around quite a bit.
Marie Claire learned all of the languages with facility, in Greece took up Ballet which she also studied in Russia, Studied art at the Sorbonne, and was always surrounded by wealthy and well known people. Her life was one of privilege.
I guess you could see it as a grown up fairy tale, which we all need now and again.
I will be curious to see what his next book will be about.
I would like to thank, NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for a copy of this book.
This is the story of a young girl, who wakes up on a street in Rome after having fallen from a truck with no memories of her past.
Sent to an orphanage and later, adopted by a French diplomat and his wife. Marie Claire's life becomes a whirlwind of opportunity and travel.
Ever since the accident, Marie Claire would always wake up crying with the memory of someone lying on the street surrounded by blood, but never knowing what it meant.
I thoroughly, enjoyed the story even though at times it seemed a bit far fetch as this was a girl that was naturally gifted in anything she decided to do.
Shortly after her adoption, the family moved from Rome, to Greece and then to Russia and then back to France, as her fathers job as an ambassador, moved him around quite a bit.
Marie Claire learned all of the languages with facility, in Greece took up Ballet which she also studied in Russia, Studied art at the Sorbonne, and was always surrounded by wealthy and well known people. Her life was one of privilege.
I guess you could see it as a grown up fairy tale, which we all need now and again.
I will be curious to see what his next book will be about.
I would like to thank, NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for a copy of this book.
March 17, 2020
I received an ARC of this book in return for an honest review. I am preparing myself for the onslaught from the many who appear to love this book, I am afraid it did less than appeal to me. The narrative opens with a child obviously running from someone, something or someplace; injured and amnesic. It continues through orphanage life peeling veg, sweetly saccharine language ability to an awesome adoption into a life of luxury. Here we have a child with none of the benefits of a good starts in life, a child genius in languages, a more than talented ballet dancer, a more than promising artist and still the saccharine primness of good moral behaviour and integrity. Most of it felt like sugar coated cereal sweet on the outside but a bit blah in the middle. I think the author missed the chase to mix in the back story the main narrative had no purpose - where was it going? why? If I read that the MC woke up with a wet pillow or tears on her cheeks one more time I swear it would make me ill.
A purposeless storyline that suddenly realised it had to find some way to round the story off.
A purposeless storyline that suddenly realised it had to find some way to round the story off.
July 20, 2019
Rags to Riches
Good beginning, but sadly I got lost as the author changed direction from child - teenager - child - et cetera. I believe this story would have run more smoothly if Marie-Claire gradually matured with each chapter instead of being retraced---that's just my opinion.
This story has wonderful insights of Paris, plus cities in other countries.
I liked the character development of the protagonist --- Marie-Claire.
All in all, a good story with an unexpected twist to the ending.
Good beginning, but sadly I got lost as the author changed direction from child - teenager - child - et cetera. I believe this story would have run more smoothly if Marie-Claire gradually matured with each chapter instead of being retraced---that's just my opinion.
This story has wonderful insights of Paris, plus cities in other countries.
I liked the character development of the protagonist --- Marie-Claire.
All in all, a good story with an unexpected twist to the ending.
July 29, 2019
Beautiful story about an orphan girl who has no memory of where she came from but is adopted by a loving couple in the diplomatic service for France.
Set in post war Europe and the Cold War her fathers job takes her around the world including Moscow where she trains as a dancer with the Bolshoi Ballet Company to Paris where she attends the Sorbonne to study art.
It describes a glittering life mixing with the social elite but all the time wondering where she really came from.
Set in post war Europe and the Cold War her fathers job takes her around the world including Moscow where she trains as a dancer with the Bolshoi Ballet Company to Paris where she attends the Sorbonne to study art.
It describes a glittering life mixing with the social elite but all the time wondering where she really came from.
December 25, 2020
Coming of age with a twist - left at an orphanage with no memories, Marie-Claire is adopted into the life of a diplomat. The story was well written, and it felt like I could watch the scenes unfold before me. A beautiful journey, with an interesting main character, who is finding who she is while wondering where she came from. The story flowed smoothly, but I wouldn't say it was particularly fast-paced.
July 18, 2023
Rags to Riches Mystery
An amazing novel that regales one with the story of an orphan with amnesia. She goes on to be adopted by rich loving French parents, but always with buried memories that leave her in tears every morning. Traveling to several countries with her French Ambassador Father, Marie-Claire finally solves the mystery. Enjoy the ride ~ most of us don't experience such fairy tales.
An amazing novel that regales one with the story of an orphan with amnesia. She goes on to be adopted by rich loving French parents, but always with buried memories that leave her in tears every morning. Traveling to several countries with her French Ambassador Father, Marie-Claire finally solves the mystery. Enjoy the ride ~ most of us don't experience such fairy tales.
Read
February 3, 2020Once Marie Claire is adopted And all the things that happened throughout just makes you want to keep reading.
This story came to the author from the famous song by Peter Sarstedt. I love how he created this story and all the characters in it. I hope you’ll take the time to read it. It is truly an amazing coming of age story!
Sylvia Stein
This story came to the author from the famous song by Peter Sarstedt. I love how he created this story and all the characters in it. I hope you’ll take the time to read it. It is truly an amazing coming of age story!
Sylvia Stein
May 20, 2023
A lovely book with such intriguing sub stories and characters. The characters were real with real travails and real emotions. The only aspect that bothered me was the lack of proof reading. This book could use a good proofreader. While it did negate the story, it did interrupt this reader’s flow in reading the text.
January 20, 2024
I enjoyed this sweeping story about the plot of a young orphan girl and her adventures over the years that followed.
However I felt that the character of Marie-Claire lacked depth, kindness and compassion. She had a somewhat vacuous personality.
However I felt that the character of Marie-Claire lacked depth, kindness and compassion. She had a somewhat vacuous personality.
February 22, 2020
An orphan who is adopted by a wealthy diplomatic couple and raised in affluence, all the time searching for her brother.
Books Go Social, Edelweiss 12/15/18
Books Go Social, Edelweiss 12/15/18
January 2, 2021
Its a good story but a little too perfect. Main Character Marie Claire too perfect a life!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 23, 2023
A novel based on the Peter Sarstedt song. Poorly written and in need of a good editor.
January 28, 2020
I liked the last 15% of the book when it was written more about the characters. The first 40% had way too much description of the areas of the travels of the characters that I got bored. I know there are readers who enjoy reading about this subject, but not me. So I skipped the middle of the book. Thank you #NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.
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