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The Heart of the Ritz
France, April 1940. Polly Hartford has been sent across oceans to her Aunt Marjorie, known only from letters. When Marjorie dies in suspicious circumstances, Polly is left with her aunt’s loaded pistol in a beautiful Hermès handbag ... and to the care of Marjorie’s three an elegant Comtesse, a gutter-born film star and a big-hearted American heiress. Polly is taken to live at the Hôtel Ritz, where those who live there think money protects them from war … But when the Nazis invade, the illusion is shattered. As Paris deteriorates, Polly and her guardians face the horrors of the Occupation with courage, humour, style – even romance – and discover just what they are capable of. As the Liberation approaches, those who survive must face a day of reckoning, but one truth stands at the heart of the Ritz is the soul of resistance. A dramatic story about conviction and courage, drawn from real characters and extraordinary events.
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Published November 26, 2019
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About the author
Luke Devenish
4 books55 followersLuke Devenish lives with his partner and pets in the historic town of Castlemaine, in the heart of the beautiful Goldfields region of Victoria, Australia. Originally from Western Australia, where he often returns, Luke grew up in the Perth Hills where he attended Eastern Hills Senior High School and Curtin University in the 1980s. He moved to Melbourne to pursue writing opportunities in 1988 and has lived in Victoria since.
Luke’s ‘Empress of Rome’ historical fiction novels are an international publishing success. Book 1, ‘Den of Wolves’, was first published in Australia and New Zealand in 2008, before being released in the United States and Canada, and later translated into Spanish, Serbian, Russian and Turkish editions. Book 2, ‘Nest of Vipers’, was released in the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand in 2010, with non-English language editions following in 2011.
Before writing novels, Luke wrote for television. From 2001 to the end of 2007 he held key creative roles including Script Producer, Story Editor and Supervising Script Editor on the long-running Australian TV drama series, Neighbours. Luke oversaw 1,500 episode scripts for the internationally broadcast serial, creating dozens of much loved characters and long-running storylines. He represented Neighbours at the UK National Television Awards in London and spoke about its ongoing success at drama industry conferences in Cologne and Amsterdam. He also appeared in a series of behind-the-scenes programs about the show made for BBC 3. Before joining Neighbours, Luke was Script Executive on Something in the Air and, as Assistant Commissioning Editor for Drama with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, he worked in the writing and development of SeaChange, RAW FM and other television series. He has also written for Home & Away.
Luke Devenish is also a playwright. Working at Melbourne’s St Martins Youth Arts Centre in the late 80s and early 90s, Luke’s plays were regularly staged for the Melbourne Fringe Festival. Productions of his work then went on to be commissioned by Melbourne’s Playbox Theatre, the Adelaide Festival, the Sydney Festival, the West Australian Academy of Performing Arts and the National Institute for Dramatic Arts, among others. Luke returned to the theatre in 2010, adapting (with Louise Fox) Dario Fo’s ‘Elizabeth: Almost By Chance a Woman’ for Melbourne’s Malthouse Theatre. This adaptation was also staged by the Queensland Theatre Company in 2012.
Luke was a student of Curtin University’s creative writing stream in the mid-80s, studying fiction under renowned novelists Elizabeth Jolley and Tim Winton. In 2008 he appeared in an ABC TV documentary, IOU Elizabeth Jolley, where he spoke about his creative debt to the late author. Luke is now a lecturer himself, having taught creative writing subjects for the Australian Film Television & Radio School, the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University, Monash University and the National Institute of Dramatic Arts. Since 2013 Luke has lectured and coordinated 1st Year undergraduates of the Bachelor of Fine Arts Screenwriting degree at the University of Melbourne's Victorian College of the Arts - a job he loves.
When he’s not writing or lecturing, Luke spends his time gardening, reading, travelling, cooking, watching, talking and listening.
Luke’s ‘Empress of Rome’ historical fiction novels are an international publishing success. Book 1, ‘Den of Wolves’, was first published in Australia and New Zealand in 2008, before being released in the United States and Canada, and later translated into Spanish, Serbian, Russian and Turkish editions. Book 2, ‘Nest of Vipers’, was released in the United States, Canada, Australia and New Zealand in 2010, with non-English language editions following in 2011.
Before writing novels, Luke wrote for television. From 2001 to the end of 2007 he held key creative roles including Script Producer, Story Editor and Supervising Script Editor on the long-running Australian TV drama series, Neighbours. Luke oversaw 1,500 episode scripts for the internationally broadcast serial, creating dozens of much loved characters and long-running storylines. He represented Neighbours at the UK National Television Awards in London and spoke about its ongoing success at drama industry conferences in Cologne and Amsterdam. He also appeared in a series of behind-the-scenes programs about the show made for BBC 3. Before joining Neighbours, Luke was Script Executive on Something in the Air and, as Assistant Commissioning Editor for Drama with the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, he worked in the writing and development of SeaChange, RAW FM and other television series. He has also written for Home & Away.
Luke Devenish is also a playwright. Working at Melbourne’s St Martins Youth Arts Centre in the late 80s and early 90s, Luke’s plays were regularly staged for the Melbourne Fringe Festival. Productions of his work then went on to be commissioned by Melbourne’s Playbox Theatre, the Adelaide Festival, the Sydney Festival, the West Australian Academy of Performing Arts and the National Institute for Dramatic Arts, among others. Luke returned to the theatre in 2010, adapting (with Louise Fox) Dario Fo’s ‘Elizabeth: Almost By Chance a Woman’ for Melbourne’s Malthouse Theatre. This adaptation was also staged by the Queensland Theatre Company in 2012.
Luke was a student of Curtin University’s creative writing stream in the mid-80s, studying fiction under renowned novelists Elizabeth Jolley and Tim Winton. In 2008 he appeared in an ABC TV documentary, IOU Elizabeth Jolley, where he spoke about his creative debt to the late author. Luke is now a lecturer himself, having taught creative writing subjects for the Australian Film Television & Radio School, the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology University, Monash University and the National Institute of Dramatic Arts. Since 2013 Luke has lectured and coordinated 1st Year undergraduates of the Bachelor of Fine Arts Screenwriting degree at the University of Melbourne's Victorian College of the Arts - a job he loves.
When he’s not writing or lecturing, Luke spends his time gardening, reading, travelling, cooking, watching, talking and listening.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
October 3, 2019
EXCERPT: ....his nerve failed him. It had never failed him once in the trenches.
To his horror he found that he simply could not go inside the Ritz. Disgraced by this cowardice, he made to move on - until he took hold of himself. He stood so that he might be thought to be viewing Napoleon's column, but of course, he was not. He was viewing the famous Hotel Ritz and dreaming of the elegant life that was lived at the heart of it; a life as secure and serene and as comfortable as a life lived curled in the womb; a life that didn't belong to him, Hans Metzingen, the handsome nobody from defeated, humiliated Germany. But it could be his, if only he would go inside.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: France, April 1940. Orphan Polly Hartford has been sent across oceans to her Aunt Marjorie, known only from letters. When Marjorie dies in suspicious circumstances, Polly is left with her aunt’s loaded pistol in a beautiful Hermès handbag . . . and to the care of Marjorie’s three closest friends: an elegant Comtesse, a gutter-born film star and a big-hearted American heiress.
Polly is taken to live at the Hôtel Ritz, where guests and staff believe wealth and prestige protect them from war. But when the Nazis invade, the illusion is shattered. As Paris deteriorates, Polly and her guardians face the horrors of the Occupation with daring, humour, style – even romance – and despite their dangerous secrets, they discover just what they are capable of.
As the Liberation approaches, those who survive at the Ritz must face a day of reckoning, but one truth stands tall: at the heart of the Ritz is the soul of resistance.
MY THOUGHTS: I have abandoned this read at 63%. I wanted to like it. I tried to like it, but it was rather like being stuck in the mud; the wheels are spinning but we're going nowhere.
I like historical fiction, particularly tales of the Resistance. I like France, and stories set there. I love old buildings and the stories they have to tell. You can see why I requested The Heart of the Ritz.
But when I woke at 2.30 am, made a cup of tea, and settled down to read, one paragraph in and I got up to wipe down the kitchen bench, tidied my pile of magazines and my cross stitch materials, played with the cat and planned my day ahead rather than read, I knew it was time to admit defeat.
I just didn't care. Nothing was happening to hold my interest. It would seem that I am in the minority here, and for that I am glad. I hate to dnf a book. This is someone's child. They have sweated blood and tears over this. But I am sorry, it's just not for me.
Reading is a personal and subjective experience, and what appeals to one may not please another. So if you enjoyed the excerpt from The Heart of the Ritz, and the plot outline appeals, please do go ahead and read it.
😞
THE AUTHOR: Luke Devenish lives with his partner and pets in the historic town of Castlemaine, in the heart of the beautiful Goldfields region of Victoria, Australia. Originally from Western Australia, where he often returns, Luke grew up in the Perth Hills where he attended Eastern Hills Senior High School and Curtin University in the 1980s. He moved to Melbourne to pursue writing opportunities in 1988 and has lived in Victoria since.
Before writing novels, Luke wrote for television, and is also a playwright.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Simon and Schuster (Australia) via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Heart of the Ritz by Luke Devenish for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system.
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon and my webpage https://wordpress.com/posts/sandysboo...
To his horror he found that he simply could not go inside the Ritz. Disgraced by this cowardice, he made to move on - until he took hold of himself. He stood so that he might be thought to be viewing Napoleon's column, but of course, he was not. He was viewing the famous Hotel Ritz and dreaming of the elegant life that was lived at the heart of it; a life as secure and serene and as comfortable as a life lived curled in the womb; a life that didn't belong to him, Hans Metzingen, the handsome nobody from defeated, humiliated Germany. But it could be his, if only he would go inside.
ABOUT THIS BOOK: France, April 1940. Orphan Polly Hartford has been sent across oceans to her Aunt Marjorie, known only from letters. When Marjorie dies in suspicious circumstances, Polly is left with her aunt’s loaded pistol in a beautiful Hermès handbag . . . and to the care of Marjorie’s three closest friends: an elegant Comtesse, a gutter-born film star and a big-hearted American heiress.
Polly is taken to live at the Hôtel Ritz, where guests and staff believe wealth and prestige protect them from war. But when the Nazis invade, the illusion is shattered. As Paris deteriorates, Polly and her guardians face the horrors of the Occupation with daring, humour, style – even romance – and despite their dangerous secrets, they discover just what they are capable of.
As the Liberation approaches, those who survive at the Ritz must face a day of reckoning, but one truth stands tall: at the heart of the Ritz is the soul of resistance.
MY THOUGHTS: I have abandoned this read at 63%. I wanted to like it. I tried to like it, but it was rather like being stuck in the mud; the wheels are spinning but we're going nowhere.
I like historical fiction, particularly tales of the Resistance. I like France, and stories set there. I love old buildings and the stories they have to tell. You can see why I requested The Heart of the Ritz.
But when I woke at 2.30 am, made a cup of tea, and settled down to read, one paragraph in and I got up to wipe down the kitchen bench, tidied my pile of magazines and my cross stitch materials, played with the cat and planned my day ahead rather than read, I knew it was time to admit defeat.
I just didn't care. Nothing was happening to hold my interest. It would seem that I am in the minority here, and for that I am glad. I hate to dnf a book. This is someone's child. They have sweated blood and tears over this. But I am sorry, it's just not for me.
Reading is a personal and subjective experience, and what appeals to one may not please another. So if you enjoyed the excerpt from The Heart of the Ritz, and the plot outline appeals, please do go ahead and read it.
😞
THE AUTHOR: Luke Devenish lives with his partner and pets in the historic town of Castlemaine, in the heart of the beautiful Goldfields region of Victoria, Australia. Originally from Western Australia, where he often returns, Luke grew up in the Perth Hills where he attended Eastern Hills Senior High School and Curtin University in the 1980s. He moved to Melbourne to pursue writing opportunities in 1988 and has lived in Victoria since.
Before writing novels, Luke wrote for television, and is also a playwright.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Simon and Schuster (Australia) via Netgalley for providing a digital ARC of The Heart of the Ritz by Luke Devenish for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
Please refer to my Goodreads.com profile page or the about page on sandysbookaday.wordpress.com for an explanation of my rating system.
This review and others are also published on Twitter, Amazon and my webpage https://wordpress.com/posts/sandysboo...
September 1, 2019
When sixteen-year-old Polly Hartford’s father died, Polly headed to France from her home in Australia into the care of her Aunt Marjorie. It was 1940 and the war loomed, but the attitude in Paris was cavalier – it wouldn’t affect them at all. Their journey to the city was by train, and when Aunt Marjorie unexpectedly died along the way, Polly found herself in the care of three very different women, all friends of Marjorie’s.
Alexandrine, Zita and Lana Mae escorted Polly to the Hotel Ritz in the centre of Paris where they all lived. It was to be Polly’s home, a fact that stunned her. But after time, the Nazis invaded Paris and some of the top Germans took over part of the Ritz. It was terrifying, but when a germ of an idea came to Polly, laced with anger at the invaders, she set out with courage and tenacity to make a difference. Two others who were also residents of the Ritz, Tommy and Odile, were by her side as they quietly resisted…
More, much more was to happen over the years, with heartbreak and loss always fueling the events. Would Polly keep her convictions; her strength; her great courage until it was all over?
The Heart of the Ritz is my first by Aussie author Luke Devenish and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Historical fiction taken from fact with some real characters thrown into the mix, the Author’s Note at the end of the book is enlightening. With the novel set mainly in the hotel, it gave a different outlook; the Resistance had a strong presence. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Simon & Schuster AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Alexandrine, Zita and Lana Mae escorted Polly to the Hotel Ritz in the centre of Paris where they all lived. It was to be Polly’s home, a fact that stunned her. But after time, the Nazis invaded Paris and some of the top Germans took over part of the Ritz. It was terrifying, but when a germ of an idea came to Polly, laced with anger at the invaders, she set out with courage and tenacity to make a difference. Two others who were also residents of the Ritz, Tommy and Odile, were by her side as they quietly resisted…
More, much more was to happen over the years, with heartbreak and loss always fueling the events. Would Polly keep her convictions; her strength; her great courage until it was all over?
The Heart of the Ritz is my first by Aussie author Luke Devenish and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Historical fiction taken from fact with some real characters thrown into the mix, the Author’s Note at the end of the book is enlightening. With the novel set mainly in the hotel, it gave a different outlook; the Resistance had a strong presence. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Simon & Schuster AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
August 11, 2021
Sixteen year old Polly Hartford’s father dies, she travels from Australia to France to stay with her aunt, when her aunt Marjorie suddenly passes away, Polly’s now an orphan living in a strange country and one on the brink of fighting another war. Polly has the support of her aunt’s best friends, Alexandrine a Comtesse, Zita a film star and Lana Mae an American heiress and they all live at the famous hotel. They take Polly under their wing, she can’t believe she’s staying in such a luxurious place, shopping for beautiful new clothes and taking in the sights of Paris.
At the Ritz, guests and staff believe the hotel's prestige will protect them from the war, of course when the German’s arrive and they take over the hotel. All four ladies are forced to share a room, being from Australia, and Polly has to report the local police station every day. Polly want’s to retaliate, along with a waiter Tommy and Odile the daughter of the general manager of the Ritz, the teenagers preform small acts of defiance. The war years drag on, Polly and her guardians face the horrors of living in an occupied country, Jewish people start to be targeted, deported, all of the women have secrets and they don’t know who they can trust.
The Heart of the Ritz gives you a glimpse into the lives of the famous people and German Officers who stayed in the hotel during the second world war, what life was like for the citizens of Paris, and the restrictions. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, I learnt a lot about the Ritz, I had no idea it was divided into two sections and four stars from me.
At the Ritz, guests and staff believe the hotel's prestige will protect them from the war, of course when the German’s arrive and they take over the hotel. All four ladies are forced to share a room, being from Australia, and Polly has to report the local police station every day. Polly want’s to retaliate, along with a waiter Tommy and Odile the daughter of the general manager of the Ritz, the teenagers preform small acts of defiance. The war years drag on, Polly and her guardians face the horrors of living in an occupied country, Jewish people start to be targeted, deported, all of the women have secrets and they don’t know who they can trust.
The Heart of the Ritz gives you a glimpse into the lives of the famous people and German Officers who stayed in the hotel during the second world war, what life was like for the citizens of Paris, and the restrictions. I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, I learnt a lot about the Ritz, I had no idea it was divided into two sections and four stars from me.
September 29, 2019
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
4.5 stars
Australian author Luke Devenish of The Secret Heiress fame, a book I absolutely adored, returns with The Heart of the Ritz. This wonderful wartime novel revolves around the glamourous Hôtel Ritz in Paris. A heavily researched and descriptive historical fiction novel, The Heart of the Ritz is a story of the bonds of female friendship, acts of valour, gallantry and sophistication, at a time of great peril. With strong underlying messages about war, democracy and control, The Heart of the Ritz has as much to say about today’s society as the tragic events in our past.
‘Four women join forces, with conviction, courage… and style’. This is the enticing front cover tagline that appears on The Heart of the Ritz by Luke Devenish. Polly, a young orphan, is our guide as The Heart of the Ritz unfurls during war time France. Following the tragic and unexplained death of her Aunt Marjorie, Polly is left in the care Marjorie’s friends, an eclectic bunch with big personalities to match. Polly is taken under the wing of this trio of women and whisked away to the live at the famous Hôtel Ritz. It is a place that offers salvation from the war that rages on past the doors of this establishment. When the Nazis break through and mark their presence in the capital, Polly and her caretakers must adapt to life under German rule. This is a time of great strength, resistance, bravery and change. A symbol of opulence and resistance, the Ritz is a beacon of light in this very dark chapter in human history.
I have really been looking forward to reading The Heart of the Ritz by Luke Devenish since I first set eyes on the cover and the title of this book. I am a big fan of Devenish and I still look upon the previous book penned by this author, The Secret Heiress, with a great deal of affection. Wartime stories are my forte and a book revolving around such a prolific hotel in Paris during occupied France immediately captured my full interest. What made The Heart of the Ritz an incredibly moving tale was the fact that this story was carefully drawn from real life events and figures. It certainly gave a sense of brevity to the unfolding story.
Young Polly is Devenish’s chief protagonist. I immediately felt drawn to Polly and her predicament. Polly is outlined well by Devenish and I thoroughly enjoyed following her life journey, it was dramatic and tumultuous. Supporting Polly are her late Aunt Marjorie’s nearest and dearest. Each of the three friends are lovingly drawn by the author. Their lives are contrasted and colouful, but also endearing. These women will have you both weeping and laughing. This is a full wartime story, with plenty of gripping moments for the characters to contend with.
The Heart of the Ritz is a war based drama, so expect plenty of action and daring sequences, where you will be on the edge of your seat fretting over the fate of the cast. The war sequences burst to life on the page, which is aided by Devenish’s vivid, authentic and descriptive prose. Yards of research has been injected into this book for our reading pleasure. I was pleasantly surprised to discover yet another pocket of previously unknown World War II history, revolving around one of the icons of Paris, the Hôtel Ritz. It made for a fascinating read. It also helped to increase my specific knowledge of the resistance during this time and place. I have so much respect for those who put their lives on the line during this dangerous period. Thank you to Luke Devenish for this informative historical text.
There are two standout features of The Heart of the Ritz. The first is the representation of Hôtel Ritz itself, it has such page presence and it gently overshadows the narrative. The Hôtel Ritz is literally the beating heart of this story and the valves of Ritz pulsate through the reader, ultimately leaving a lasting impression. Secondly, the nine page accompanying Author’s Note at the close of the book provides a bonus tier to this compelling novel. It gives the reader some extra grounding to the events, as well as the figures that sparked the formation of this book. Rounding The Heart of the Ritz off with a tidy, but meaningful conclusion, sent the book off on a thoughtful parting note.
The Heart of the Ritz is an all-encompassing tale of secrets, war, invasion, protection, sacrifice, belief, love, friendship and resilience. I would happily send The Heart of the Ritz into the waiting hands of all historical fiction readers, this is an impressive read from an author I look forward to hearing more from in the near future.
*I wish to thank Simon & Schuster Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
*Book #9 of the 2019 Aussie male author challenge.
4.5 stars
Australian author Luke Devenish of The Secret Heiress fame, a book I absolutely adored, returns with The Heart of the Ritz. This wonderful wartime novel revolves around the glamourous Hôtel Ritz in Paris. A heavily researched and descriptive historical fiction novel, The Heart of the Ritz is a story of the bonds of female friendship, acts of valour, gallantry and sophistication, at a time of great peril. With strong underlying messages about war, democracy and control, The Heart of the Ritz has as much to say about today’s society as the tragic events in our past.
‘Four women join forces, with conviction, courage… and style’. This is the enticing front cover tagline that appears on The Heart of the Ritz by Luke Devenish. Polly, a young orphan, is our guide as The Heart of the Ritz unfurls during war time France. Following the tragic and unexplained death of her Aunt Marjorie, Polly is left in the care Marjorie’s friends, an eclectic bunch with big personalities to match. Polly is taken under the wing of this trio of women and whisked away to the live at the famous Hôtel Ritz. It is a place that offers salvation from the war that rages on past the doors of this establishment. When the Nazis break through and mark their presence in the capital, Polly and her caretakers must adapt to life under German rule. This is a time of great strength, resistance, bravery and change. A symbol of opulence and resistance, the Ritz is a beacon of light in this very dark chapter in human history.
I have really been looking forward to reading The Heart of the Ritz by Luke Devenish since I first set eyes on the cover and the title of this book. I am a big fan of Devenish and I still look upon the previous book penned by this author, The Secret Heiress, with a great deal of affection. Wartime stories are my forte and a book revolving around such a prolific hotel in Paris during occupied France immediately captured my full interest. What made The Heart of the Ritz an incredibly moving tale was the fact that this story was carefully drawn from real life events and figures. It certainly gave a sense of brevity to the unfolding story.
Young Polly is Devenish’s chief protagonist. I immediately felt drawn to Polly and her predicament. Polly is outlined well by Devenish and I thoroughly enjoyed following her life journey, it was dramatic and tumultuous. Supporting Polly are her late Aunt Marjorie’s nearest and dearest. Each of the three friends are lovingly drawn by the author. Their lives are contrasted and colouful, but also endearing. These women will have you both weeping and laughing. This is a full wartime story, with plenty of gripping moments for the characters to contend with.
The Heart of the Ritz is a war based drama, so expect plenty of action and daring sequences, where you will be on the edge of your seat fretting over the fate of the cast. The war sequences burst to life on the page, which is aided by Devenish’s vivid, authentic and descriptive prose. Yards of research has been injected into this book for our reading pleasure. I was pleasantly surprised to discover yet another pocket of previously unknown World War II history, revolving around one of the icons of Paris, the Hôtel Ritz. It made for a fascinating read. It also helped to increase my specific knowledge of the resistance during this time and place. I have so much respect for those who put their lives on the line during this dangerous period. Thank you to Luke Devenish for this informative historical text.
There are two standout features of The Heart of the Ritz. The first is the representation of Hôtel Ritz itself, it has such page presence and it gently overshadows the narrative. The Hôtel Ritz is literally the beating heart of this story and the valves of Ritz pulsate through the reader, ultimately leaving a lasting impression. Secondly, the nine page accompanying Author’s Note at the close of the book provides a bonus tier to this compelling novel. It gives the reader some extra grounding to the events, as well as the figures that sparked the formation of this book. Rounding The Heart of the Ritz off with a tidy, but meaningful conclusion, sent the book off on a thoughtful parting note.
The Heart of the Ritz is an all-encompassing tale of secrets, war, invasion, protection, sacrifice, belief, love, friendship and resilience. I would happily send The Heart of the Ritz into the waiting hands of all historical fiction readers, this is an impressive read from an author I look forward to hearing more from in the near future.
*I wish to thank Simon & Schuster Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
*Book #9 of the 2019 Aussie male author challenge.
September 6, 2019
The Heart of the Ritz by Luke Devenish
Inspiring and dramatic story about the resistance movement in and around the Paris Hotel Ritz
When sixteen year old Polly Hartford's father dies, Polly is sent from Australia to France to be cared for by her Aunt Marjorie, known only to her by letters.
It’s 1940 and war is imminent. On the train journey into the city of Paris, Aunt Marjorie dies suddenly under a cloud of secrets and mystery. Polly is taken into the care of Marjorie's three closest friends who live at the Hotel Ritz, where everyone rich thinks they will be protected from the war with their wealth.
Once the Nazi’s invade, and take over the hotel, everyone faces the horrors of war.
This was a really enjoyable and refreshing read, and a little different with the setting being mostly the Ritz. There were some well known French real-life characters in the book which was delightful. A great historical fiction read.
Inspiring and dramatic story about the resistance movement in and around the Paris Hotel Ritz
When sixteen year old Polly Hartford's father dies, Polly is sent from Australia to France to be cared for by her Aunt Marjorie, known only to her by letters.
It’s 1940 and war is imminent. On the train journey into the city of Paris, Aunt Marjorie dies suddenly under a cloud of secrets and mystery. Polly is taken into the care of Marjorie's three closest friends who live at the Hotel Ritz, where everyone rich thinks they will be protected from the war with their wealth.
Once the Nazi’s invade, and take over the hotel, everyone faces the horrors of war.
This was a really enjoyable and refreshing read, and a little different with the setting being mostly the Ritz. There were some well known French real-life characters in the book which was delightful. A great historical fiction read.
September 10, 2019
Loved it. The story kept me wanting more. The author has a gentle, warm writing style that I really enjoyed. I invested in the characters with genuine emotion. Fans of historical fiction will devour this page turner with all the elements of romance, fashion, history, Paris, secrets, subterfuge, intrigue and wealth to capture the imagination. You’ll thoroughly enjoy this unique take on a widely written about time in history.
There are so many wonderful vibrant characters and the descriptions of the inner sanctum of Parisian society gives the reader an intriguing look at how the other half live. The character of Polly is endearing and you keep turning the pages as you long to see what will become of her in the face of corruption that is closer to her than she imagines.
A wonderful book to curl up with – you won’t be able to put it down.
I kept thinking that it will make a great movie. Highly recommended.
There are so many wonderful vibrant characters and the descriptions of the inner sanctum of Parisian society gives the reader an intriguing look at how the other half live. The character of Polly is endearing and you keep turning the pages as you long to see what will become of her in the face of corruption that is closer to her than she imagines.
A wonderful book to curl up with – you won’t be able to put it down.
I kept thinking that it will make a great movie. Highly recommended.
September 10, 2019
{Received from NetGalley for review}
This WW2 saga, following the lives of some very colourful characters at the Ritz in Paris, during German occupation, was a long, complex but ultimately satisfying experience. Woven around the tale of young Australian orphan Polly, her three guardians' convoluted story lines add drama and chaos to an already gripping read. The women of Paris won't be squashed, the occupying forces will be humoured, but ultimately defeated, and the years will pass rapidly moving towards a final thrilling finale.
The pace of this book felt extremely slow in some places, and rushed in others, however I'm glad I powered through.
I appreciate the inspiration behind this story, the characters inspired by real Ritz occupants, and their various efforts in the Resistance. This is not a read for our younger students - while of adult interest, our seniors would enjoy the rich history, and relatable drama of young first love.
This WW2 saga, following the lives of some very colourful characters at the Ritz in Paris, during German occupation, was a long, complex but ultimately satisfying experience. Woven around the tale of young Australian orphan Polly, her three guardians' convoluted story lines add drama and chaos to an already gripping read. The women of Paris won't be squashed, the occupying forces will be humoured, but ultimately defeated, and the years will pass rapidly moving towards a final thrilling finale.
The pace of this book felt extremely slow in some places, and rushed in others, however I'm glad I powered through.
I appreciate the inspiration behind this story, the characters inspired by real Ritz occupants, and their various efforts in the Resistance. This is not a read for our younger students - while of adult interest, our seniors would enjoy the rich history, and relatable drama of young first love.
September 17, 2019
Polly Hartford has only ever known her aunt Marjorie from the letters she has been sending over the years. Aunt Marjorie’s life sounds glamorous, wonderful and so exciting. When Polly turns 16 and her father dies, she is sent across the seas from Australia to France and into the care of Aunt Marjorie. They are aboard a train, first class carriages no less, and Polly can sense that something is wrong. Why is the cabin door closed? Why is her aunt fidgeting so much? Then all of a sudden, another tragedy unfolds in front of her.
Set in France, April 1940, Polly is thrown into a world where there are many secrets and unanswered questions. She is soon wondering who her aunt really was, why did she give Polly a gun and why has Polly received a strange letter? Who are her Aunt Marjorie’s friends, what secrets are they keeping from Polly and how can they be in such denial of the impending German invasion?
This is a story of four women, with characters as tough as nails, who demonstrate extraordinary courage and conviction whilst remaining committed to the style they are known for and accustomed to.
The author has such a descriptive style of writing, it is easy to imagine these ladies dripping in their finery, jewels, beautiful clothes and cocktails; their society lifestyle seems wonderful, I would love to visit The Ritz.
This book could very well be made into a movie; Baz Lurhmann would enhance the story, giving such elaborate costumes to the characters and the setting, just imagine the Ritz Hotel.
I commend the author Luke Devenish on a very well written book. Thank you to Beauty and Lace Book Club and Simon & Schuster for the opportunity to read and review such an exciting novel.
Set in France, April 1940, Polly is thrown into a world where there are many secrets and unanswered questions. She is soon wondering who her aunt really was, why did she give Polly a gun and why has Polly received a strange letter? Who are her Aunt Marjorie’s friends, what secrets are they keeping from Polly and how can they be in such denial of the impending German invasion?
This is a story of four women, with characters as tough as nails, who demonstrate extraordinary courage and conviction whilst remaining committed to the style they are known for and accustomed to.
The author has such a descriptive style of writing, it is easy to imagine these ladies dripping in their finery, jewels, beautiful clothes and cocktails; their society lifestyle seems wonderful, I would love to visit The Ritz.
This book could very well be made into a movie; Baz Lurhmann would enhance the story, giving such elaborate costumes to the characters and the setting, just imagine the Ritz Hotel.
I commend the author Luke Devenish on a very well written book. Thank you to Beauty and Lace Book Club and Simon & Schuster for the opportunity to read and review such an exciting novel.
July 23, 2020
I came to this book, having just finished the first in Pat Barker's Regeneration Trilogy (which is VERY good), before which I'd read another 'historical' novel, Fortune, by Lenny Bartulin.
Bartulin's literary, richly researched narrative, followed by Barker's utilitarian, unpretentious and immediately engaging prose, meant Devenish had two tough gigs to follow.
Devenish' prose is clean, visually evocative, and the narrative skips along. I didn't immediately engage with his cast of characters, but was happy to read along for the story - set in a brutal era when fascism overcame humanity. Just like is happening again now.
And then I began to get the feels. As each of the apparently superficial main protagonists were stripped by circumstance of the pretenses they carry, and their raw vulnerabilities and flaws were exposed, I began to like them. At about the time I thought this would make a charming and dramatic feature film, I was hooked. I cared.
So, yeah, no spoilers from me, but Devenish never lets his research intrude - though, as a writer, I see and admire the foundations he's laid, and there are levels of resonance to our current world that give Heart of the Ritz greater weight than the cover (which, don't get me wrong, is great) might indicate. (In other words, boys can read it too, k?)
Finally, props for the shout-out for the yoof from Devenish. While it's not just young people who care and fight for justice, all of us can be inspired by those who put their lives and souls on the line for what is right, and that which comes from a place of love.
Bartulin's literary, richly researched narrative, followed by Barker's utilitarian, unpretentious and immediately engaging prose, meant Devenish had two tough gigs to follow.
Devenish' prose is clean, visually evocative, and the narrative skips along. I didn't immediately engage with his cast of characters, but was happy to read along for the story - set in a brutal era when fascism overcame humanity. Just like is happening again now.
And then I began to get the feels. As each of the apparently superficial main protagonists were stripped by circumstance of the pretenses they carry, and their raw vulnerabilities and flaws were exposed, I began to like them. At about the time I thought this would make a charming and dramatic feature film, I was hooked. I cared.
So, yeah, no spoilers from me, but Devenish never lets his research intrude - though, as a writer, I see and admire the foundations he's laid, and there are levels of resonance to our current world that give Heart of the Ritz greater weight than the cover (which, don't get me wrong, is great) might indicate. (In other words, boys can read it too, k?)
Finally, props for the shout-out for the yoof from Devenish. While it's not just young people who care and fight for justice, all of us can be inspired by those who put their lives and souls on the line for what is right, and that which comes from a place of love.
November 6, 2019
I love books that take me to another time and place, books that enable me to walk in the shoes of people who live in an era that is not my own. Luke Devenish has given his readers an authentic, yet unique experience in this book. Set in Nazi-occupied Paris in World War II, it explores the rise of the Resistance movement in war-torn France and the central role played by the infamous Ritz Hotel and those who called this iconic place home during that time.
A gorgeously evocative read.
Tune in to my chat with Luke about the book in Episode 36 of Talking Aussie Books- the podcast at:
www.claudinetinellis.com/podcast-1 or wherever you get your podcasts.
A gorgeously evocative read.
Tune in to my chat with Luke about the book in Episode 36 of Talking Aussie Books- the podcast at:
www.claudinetinellis.com/podcast-1 or wherever you get your podcasts.
September 25, 2019
The Heart of the Ritz is an energetic and complex novel with a thoroughly entertaining and captivating story that cloaks an exploration into human morals, personal sacrifice and courage.
I recently read the Paris Seamstress, and while I enjoyed the read, I was a little disappointed when the story moved from Paris under the threat of occupation; the Heart of the Ritz was my remedy.
Polly is a sixteen-year-old orphan, sent to live with her famous Aunt Marjorie, a singer, well known in Europe. When Marjorie dies suddenly, Polly’s guardianship falls to Marjorie’s three best friends, Alexandrine, Zita and Lana Mae. Alexandrine is a minor aristocrat, Zita is a film star and Lana Mae a wealthy heiress, and all three live hedonistic, socialite lives of privilege – their home, the famous Ritz Hotel in Paris.
They’re interesting characters, fun to know in a sort of “The Real Housewives of Paris, in the thirties” kind of way, but as they are, rich, indulgent and somewhat narcissistic, you wouldn’t want to spend too long in their presence. Cue the war as it came creeping to the outskirts of Paris with the fascinating rumours of the approaching German armies, the propaganda and lies of the French government as they keep the truth of the threat hidden until the last moment and then the shock and stunned adjustments needed by the citizens, as one of the world’s most prized cities falls in days and becomes an occupied prize of war.
The German’s take over with ruthless efficiency and Polly, and her three larger-than-life guardians must find a way to survive under the occupation. Each must face harsh truths about themselves, the lives they’ve led and what it will take to be able to live with their choices when witnessing unspeakable crimes. It’s a question we all ask and will hopefully never be called to answer, but who dares to risk their safety for an ideal when forced to choose?
The Heart of the Ritz tackles these issues alongside a good helping of romance without ever being sentimental or relying on easy choices. Some of the affairs with occupying German’s are heartbreaking, and the death of the young, innocent Jürgen rests well alongside other tragic literary deaths such as Pvt. Roth from Mailer’s The Naked and the Dead.
Luke Devenish has written an extraordinarily well researched fiction, based on history, that is so rich in detail and fact that it feels like a window back through time.
Expect to laugh and cry, while being enthralled as these remarkable women change and grow to be so much more than they began. This story will stay with me for a long time, as it dealt with many of life’s big-ticket items in a subtle, thoughtful manner that is so relevant because of the times in which we now live.
I recently read the Paris Seamstress, and while I enjoyed the read, I was a little disappointed when the story moved from Paris under the threat of occupation; the Heart of the Ritz was my remedy.
Polly is a sixteen-year-old orphan, sent to live with her famous Aunt Marjorie, a singer, well known in Europe. When Marjorie dies suddenly, Polly’s guardianship falls to Marjorie’s three best friends, Alexandrine, Zita and Lana Mae. Alexandrine is a minor aristocrat, Zita is a film star and Lana Mae a wealthy heiress, and all three live hedonistic, socialite lives of privilege – their home, the famous Ritz Hotel in Paris.
They’re interesting characters, fun to know in a sort of “The Real Housewives of Paris, in the thirties” kind of way, but as they are, rich, indulgent and somewhat narcissistic, you wouldn’t want to spend too long in their presence. Cue the war as it came creeping to the outskirts of Paris with the fascinating rumours of the approaching German armies, the propaganda and lies of the French government as they keep the truth of the threat hidden until the last moment and then the shock and stunned adjustments needed by the citizens, as one of the world’s most prized cities falls in days and becomes an occupied prize of war.
The German’s take over with ruthless efficiency and Polly, and her three larger-than-life guardians must find a way to survive under the occupation. Each must face harsh truths about themselves, the lives they’ve led and what it will take to be able to live with their choices when witnessing unspeakable crimes. It’s a question we all ask and will hopefully never be called to answer, but who dares to risk their safety for an ideal when forced to choose?
The Heart of the Ritz tackles these issues alongside a good helping of romance without ever being sentimental or relying on easy choices. Some of the affairs with occupying German’s are heartbreaking, and the death of the young, innocent Jürgen rests well alongside other tragic literary deaths such as Pvt. Roth from Mailer’s The Naked and the Dead.
Luke Devenish has written an extraordinarily well researched fiction, based on history, that is so rich in detail and fact that it feels like a window back through time.
Expect to laugh and cry, while being enthralled as these remarkable women change and grow to be so much more than they began. This story will stay with me for a long time, as it dealt with many of life’s big-ticket items in a subtle, thoughtful manner that is so relevant because of the times in which we now live.
January 26, 2020
A story of resistance from occupation in France based around a central group of four women and others in a hotel in France. The Ritz presents many aspects of life choices, from collaboration, to resistance. I enjoyed the book whose main character was an orphaned Australian girl who was brought to France by her Aunt. The saddest part is that the Aunt dies at the very start. So she is left in the care of her Aunt's three friends and to live at the Hotel Ritz.
An enjoyable read.
An enjoyable read.
September 24, 2019
Got a good twist I didn't expect. Well written. I love books set in this era.
September 24, 2019
I was rather excited to read this, as a large portion of the book is set in The Ritz, Paris. Sadly I didn't actually stay there when I visited Paris, but I did stay just around the corner from Place Vendome, so spent quite a lot of time walking past The Ritz and gawking at it. So the setting was an immediate win for me, I could visualize the hotel and the surrounds perfectly. Australian author Luke Devenish has given us 16 year old (Aussie) Polly, in this story, and her aunt Marjorie. Also a brash red-head American heiress, a gutter-mouthed movie star Parisienne, and an elegant French Comtesse. They are all so completely different, brought together by the older Marjorie, a remarkable woman. Apart from their curious seemingly mis-matched friendships, they all live in The Ritz in WWII Paris. When the Germans invade Paris, the occupation horrors inevitably escalate. It is then that the women forge unusual and secret liaisons with others, working to do their part in the rebellion against the invaders that slowly but surely bubbles up from ordinary (but driven) Parisiennes around them. It's fascinating to read, especially as some of the stories based on true stories, which makes it even more compelling and heart-wrenching. And yet all act in secrecy (because, needs must) - and so they often don't know what each other are doing, or in fact what other people (residents and staff) in The Ritz itself are doing. My one gripe was the gutter language a couple of the women use, especially when insulting each other. It drew me out of the story, and I remain unconvinced women in their situation would talk like that; there was no reason for it. Still, the story rolled on. The Ritz itself is virtually a character here too; such a beautiful hotel with such amazing staff. Thanks to Beauty & Lace, and Simon & Schuster Australia for the reading copy.
November 22, 2019
‘The Heart of the Ritz’ is an interesting book taking place in the famous ‘Ritz’ hotel of Paris during the Second World War. Young orphaned Polly arrives from Australia in 1940 to live with her Aunt Majorie. However, the aunt soon dies under somewhat suspicious circumstances, leaving Polly in the care of the aunt’s three favoured friends.
These new guardians care for Polly at the Ritz hotel but with the German invasion looming large. When Occupation does eventuate and their hope of protection from within the walls of the Ritz evaporates, each has to step up and learn through hardship, what they are capable of.
This was a well written book, although certain parts - particularly the middle sections - were extremely slow moving and difficult to get through. Sadly it was a struggle, however, the end does redeem the overall story somewhat.
It is always good to read historical fiction that is based on fact in some parts or with relation to certain characters. The Author’s Note at the conclusion of the book is most enlightening. It was also good to read a war tale from a different perspective, that being the hotel itself.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
These new guardians care for Polly at the Ritz hotel but with the German invasion looming large. When Occupation does eventuate and their hope of protection from within the walls of the Ritz evaporates, each has to step up and learn through hardship, what they are capable of.
This was a well written book, although certain parts - particularly the middle sections - were extremely slow moving and difficult to get through. Sadly it was a struggle, however, the end does redeem the overall story somewhat.
It is always good to read historical fiction that is based on fact in some parts or with relation to certain characters. The Author’s Note at the conclusion of the book is most enlightening. It was also good to read a war tale from a different perspective, that being the hotel itself.
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
November 8, 2019
A fascinating novel about 1940's Paris, and how fashion influenced the Resistance. Real characters rub shoulders with fictional ones, and others based on real people and genuine stories. (Luke Devenish has helpfully shared some of the stories in an appendix). So we find Polly, the naive Australian girl joining her Aunt Marjorie in Europe, only to find that her aunt has strange secrets. Why does she have a gun in her Hermes handbag? Why are her friends Comtesse Alexandrine, Lana Mae the American millionaire and Zita the sultry film star, telling Polly lies?
Then the Nazis invade Paris, and the Ritz where the ladies live, is taken over by Goring and his staff, including the despicable Oberstleutnant Metzingen, who has history with Zita.
The Ritz is a character in the book, with its many staff, some of whom really lived - including Madame Ritz herself.
Along the way, we meet Coco Chanel, Madame Lanvin and other fashionistas struggling to keep a business going and (for some at least) to help the Resistance in whatever way they can.
The characters are appealing, the story exciting, and as a friend of mine said of another book - "If it's not televised, there's no justice!"
Then the Nazis invade Paris, and the Ritz where the ladies live, is taken over by Goring and his staff, including the despicable Oberstleutnant Metzingen, who has history with Zita.
The Ritz is a character in the book, with its many staff, some of whom really lived - including Madame Ritz herself.
Along the way, we meet Coco Chanel, Madame Lanvin and other fashionistas struggling to keep a business going and (for some at least) to help the Resistance in whatever way they can.
The characters are appealing, the story exciting, and as a friend of mine said of another book - "If it's not televised, there's no justice!"
September 27, 2019
I loved this so much. The characters were fabulous. So colourful and funny. And then they started breaking my heart when some of the plot twists happened! I think Alexandrine was my favourite, although I really enjoyed Polly's journey from innocent girl to kick-ass resistance fighter. That was absolutely wonderful. The Ritz setting was so well done. Really vivid in places. I felt like I was there - I wanted to move in with them all, even with the nasty Nazis stealing all the art and jewels. The ending was beautiful and I loved how some of the loose ends I'd forgotten about were so nicely tied up. I had a little cry. That last chapter describing the real people behind the characters was great too. Great book.
May 26, 2023
Australian Polly Hartford is just sixteen years old when her father dies and her Aunt Marjorie in Paris becomes her guardian. Polly arrives in France just before the German occupation of WWII but her aunt dies in mysterious circumstances before they arrive in Paris. She comes into the care of her aunt’s three best friends who live at the Hotel Ritz.
When the Nazis arrive, the hotel is requisitioned but some guests are permitted to remain at the hotel, including Polly and her three guardians who find themselves sharing a room.
A work of fiction this historical novel gives the reader a glimpse at the lives of the German officers and the few privileged guests who lived at The Ritz during the occupation. Among the hotel guests and staff there was an abundance of intrigue and the resistance movement was strong. Highly recommended.
When the Nazis arrive, the hotel is requisitioned but some guests are permitted to remain at the hotel, including Polly and her three guardians who find themselves sharing a room.
A work of fiction this historical novel gives the reader a glimpse at the lives of the German officers and the few privileged guests who lived at The Ritz during the occupation. Among the hotel guests and staff there was an abundance of intrigue and the resistance movement was strong. Highly recommended.
July 13, 2020
Polly moves to France from Australia at the start of WW2. Her circumstances turn out differently to what she expected and the story centres around The Ritz Hotel during the occupation of France. This is an epic story of love, betrayal, friendship, courage and faith. The characters are fully rounded with their flaws, their secrets and their heart-warming realism. I absolutely loved this story and I’m sad that it has ended.
January 21, 2020
I so want to visit The Ritz for myself. Great story.
May 8, 2020
It started off a little slow at first but pace picked up with unexpected twists and turns. Well-researched historical fiction.
April 30, 2020
What a book. Stunning, the characters will stay with me for a long time, such strength of character, which represented exactly what the French resisters were truly like. A wonderful portrayal of a hideous time. Definitely will recommend.
October 10, 2019
3.5 stars
Thank you to Simon & Schuster Australia for an uncorrected proof of this book!
When 16 year old Polly is orphaned in Australia in 1940, her Aunt Marjorie arranges for her to move to Paris to be with her. Very soon after Polly’s arrival in Paris her Aunt Marjorie dies in somewhat suspicious circumstances and Polly is left in the care of her aunt’s three closest friends.
Polly’s three new guardians take her to live at the Hotel Ritz, where they are all under the impression that somehow the Ritz will protect them from war. As the Occupation becomes a reality, they all have to fight for what they believe in and discover what they are each capable of.
I very much enjoyed the majority of this book, but do admit to finding the middle a bit of a hard slog to get through as it was very slow moving and didn’t seem to be going anywhere. However if you can battle on through, you are rewarded with a lovely (and of course tragic.....what war story isn’t?) story overall.
I loved the majority of the characters and the real feeling of frivolity at the beginning of the book and the subsequent loss of it all once the hotel was occupied by the German officers.
I also have to say that I didn’t find many of the big secrets terribly shocking, but enjoyed spending time with these characters nonetheless. ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Thank you to Simon & Schuster Australia for an uncorrected proof of this book!
When 16 year old Polly is orphaned in Australia in 1940, her Aunt Marjorie arranges for her to move to Paris to be with her. Very soon after Polly’s arrival in Paris her Aunt Marjorie dies in somewhat suspicious circumstances and Polly is left in the care of her aunt’s three closest friends.
Polly’s three new guardians take her to live at the Hotel Ritz, where they are all under the impression that somehow the Ritz will protect them from war. As the Occupation becomes a reality, they all have to fight for what they believe in and discover what they are each capable of.
I very much enjoyed the majority of this book, but do admit to finding the middle a bit of a hard slog to get through as it was very slow moving and didn’t seem to be going anywhere. However if you can battle on through, you are rewarded with a lovely (and of course tragic.....what war story isn’t?) story overall.
I loved the majority of the characters and the real feeling of frivolity at the beginning of the book and the subsequent loss of it all once the hotel was occupied by the German officers.
I also have to say that I didn’t find many of the big secrets terribly shocking, but enjoyed spending time with these characters nonetheless. ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
February 20, 2020
This was a real struggle for me as I really wanted to like it.
Read
August 24, 2020There was a lot to like about this novel . The setting in the Ritz hotel and the variety of characters. The obvious depth of historical research that went into this made it fascinating. The relationships between the women and their various forms of courage were wonderful.A couple of things grated with me. The language seemed a bit inappropriate at times. Also, why did Zita shoot Tommy? And how did Polly save him, as abdomen wounds would be pretty serious in France at that time. Overall , though, a really enjoyable read.
February 17, 2020
4.5 would be a better rating.
Really enjoyed this historical fiction, taking place in France during World War II. As you read you feel that an enormous amount of research has gone into the book. At the back of the book, the author gives you an insight to some of the historical characters that inspired this book.
Great characters, great plot, and a good read that will keep you engaged.
Really enjoyed this historical fiction, taking place in France during World War II. As you read you feel that an enormous amount of research has gone into the book. At the back of the book, the author gives you an insight to some of the historical characters that inspired this book.
Great characters, great plot, and a good read that will keep you engaged.
Read
April 26, 2020Language annoyed
I didn’t feel the characters were real and acting and speaking like they probably would have back in that era.
They seemed quite crude at times. I don’t feel that the young girl would’ve come straight from Australia and spoken perfect French . Liked the concept though
I didn’t feel the characters were real and acting and speaking like they probably would have back in that era.
They seemed quite crude at times. I don’t feel that the young girl would’ve come straight from Australia and spoken perfect French . Liked the concept though
June 3, 2023
Though the characters are drawn a little broadly at first they soon flesh out and the gripping plot takes over. Set in occupied Paris during the war, a fascinating story about how one group of brave and subversive female friends contributed small and large acts of Resistance when the city of light went dark.
September 30, 2023
Gabrielle Chanel herself shutting her door on these women and declaring it unpatriotic to sell clothes during the war, was the moment I decided this book isn’t for me. Gabrielle Chanel was a Nazi collaborator during the war. When researching history for books like this, fashion history is well worth looking into. On a more minor note, her couture house closed in 1939 due to the war, not 1940.
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