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Lost in Paris
Four years after being exiled to Paris for disgracing the family name, Alabama debutante Zoe Barlow is still reeling from the horror of her ejection. Still, she's managed to create a new family among fellow expats and artists, including Hadley and Ernest Hemingway. When a valise containing all of Ernest's writings goes missing, Zoe volunteers to help Hadley track it down. Unfortunately, the valise leads to two murders-the train porter who stole the bag, and a young woman rumored to be Anastasia Romanov-shot to death on the edge of a small village. With much more at stake than the missing manuscripts, Zoe risks everything she holds dear to find out who among her adopted family is a murderer
272 pages, Paperback
First published April 4, 2023
40 people are currently reading
4132 people want to read
About the author
Betty Webb
24 books202 followersAs a journalist and literary critic for more than 20 years, Betty -- a resident of Scottsdale, Arizona, where her detective Lena Jones also lives -- has interviewed U. S. presidents, Nobel prize-winners, astronauts who’ve walked on the moon, polygamy runaways, the homeless, and the hopeless.
Now retired from journalism to write full time, she also contributes the Small Press column for Mystery Scene magazine and teaches creative writing at Phoenix College.
In her writing, Betty makes liberal use of her own varied background. She earned her way through art school by working as a folk singer but eventually gave up singing to concentrate on her art career. At various times she has picked cotton, raised chickens which laid blue eggs (Speckled Hamburgs), worked in a zoo, been a go-go dancer and horse breeder, taught Sunday School, founded a literary magazine, helped rebuild a long-abandoned 120-year-old farm house, and back-packed the Highlands of Scotland alone.
In 1982, Betty moved to Scottsdale, Arizona, where her Lena Jones novels are set, but her roots are in Hamilton, Alabama, where most of her extended family still lives. In 2000 she published The Webb Family of Alabama: Survivors of Change, which focused on the descendants of her half-Seneca, half-English great-great-grandfather, William Douglas Webb, who ran away to sea at the age of 16, then after 14 wild years, settled down to farm peacefully in Hamilton. Recent DNA testing, however, has revealed that her seafaring ancestor harbored a big secret: he might not have been a Webb after all, but the descendant of a New Jersey colonist family named Price. Betty is now working to unravel this real-life mystery: did William Douglas Price change his name to Webb. Was he on the run from the law? (As a mystery writer, she kinda hopes he was)
On her mother’s side, Betty can trace her roots back to the Barons of Riddell in medieval Scotland. The Riddells, friends and financial supporters of the poet Robert Burns, did not always enjoy the best of reputations. The opera, Lucia di Lammermore, about a young bride who decapitates her husband on their wedding night, was based upon a real life incident in the Riddell family. But the Riddells maintain that Lucy (her real name) merely scratched her bridegroom, and that he simply overreacted when he screamed out, "Murder!" Anyway, that’s the Riddells' story and they're sticking to it.
"The impact of my unusual family upon my life has been profound," Betty says. "That's why I thought it would be intriguing to create a detective who had no idea of where she came from or who her parents were. Creating the orphaned Lena Jones has helped me appreciate my own ancestral heritage - both the good and the bad." About the recent DNA testing results, she adds, "All this time the Webbs were keeping an even bigger secret than the Riddells -- and they didn’t even know they were! How could I not have become a mystery novelist."
(from http://www.bettywebb-mystery.com/bio....)
Series:
* Lena Jones Mystery
* Gunn Zoo Mystery
Now retired from journalism to write full time, she also contributes the Small Press column for Mystery Scene magazine and teaches creative writing at Phoenix College.
In her writing, Betty makes liberal use of her own varied background. She earned her way through art school by working as a folk singer but eventually gave up singing to concentrate on her art career. At various times she has picked cotton, raised chickens which laid blue eggs (Speckled Hamburgs), worked in a zoo, been a go-go dancer and horse breeder, taught Sunday School, founded a literary magazine, helped rebuild a long-abandoned 120-year-old farm house, and back-packed the Highlands of Scotland alone.
In 1982, Betty moved to Scottsdale, Arizona, where her Lena Jones novels are set, but her roots are in Hamilton, Alabama, where most of her extended family still lives. In 2000 she published The Webb Family of Alabama: Survivors of Change, which focused on the descendants of her half-Seneca, half-English great-great-grandfather, William Douglas Webb, who ran away to sea at the age of 16, then after 14 wild years, settled down to farm peacefully in Hamilton. Recent DNA testing, however, has revealed that her seafaring ancestor harbored a big secret: he might not have been a Webb after all, but the descendant of a New Jersey colonist family named Price. Betty is now working to unravel this real-life mystery: did William Douglas Price change his name to Webb. Was he on the run from the law? (As a mystery writer, she kinda hopes he was)
On her mother’s side, Betty can trace her roots back to the Barons of Riddell in medieval Scotland. The Riddells, friends and financial supporters of the poet Robert Burns, did not always enjoy the best of reputations. The opera, Lucia di Lammermore, about a young bride who decapitates her husband on their wedding night, was based upon a real life incident in the Riddell family. But the Riddells maintain that Lucy (her real name) merely scratched her bridegroom, and that he simply overreacted when he screamed out, "Murder!" Anyway, that’s the Riddells' story and they're sticking to it.
"The impact of my unusual family upon my life has been profound," Betty says. "That's why I thought it would be intriguing to create a detective who had no idea of where she came from or who her parents were. Creating the orphaned Lena Jones has helped me appreciate my own ancestral heritage - both the good and the bad." About the recent DNA testing results, she adds, "All this time the Webbs were keeping an even bigger secret than the Riddells -- and they didn’t even know they were! How could I not have become a mystery novelist."
(from http://www.bettywebb-mystery.com/bio....)
Series:
* Lena Jones Mystery
* Gunn Zoo Mystery
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
November 10, 2022
If you're a fan of The Da Vinci Code and/or The Gilded Age, you'll love Lost in Paris. This book mixes cozy mystery and historical fiction with abandon, while leaving room for some romance and strong female friendships. You are transported to the 1920s where you follow Alabama debutante Zoe Barlow as she embarks on a new life in Paris after being exiled for disgracing her family. Despite her difficult past, Zoe has formed a new family among fellow expats and artists, including Hadley and Ernest Hemingway, Kiki de Montparnasse, and many more recognizable names.
When a valise holding all of Ernest's manuscripts goes lost, Zoe offers to assist Hadley in locating it. Unfortunately, the valise leads to two murders: the railway porter who stole the bag and a young woman shot to death on the outskirts of a tiny settlement. With far more at stake than the lost manuscripts, Zoe is willing to put her life on the line to discover who among her adopted family is a murderer.
Webb writes lyrically and with clarity, transporting us to 1920s Paris, complete with its fashion and culture. The characters are well-drawn and realistic, and the plot is fast-paced and audacious. I was particularly taken with the depiction of racial relationships and class differences, which is rarely addressed in historical fiction.
However, I found that some characters were underdeveloped, which was the novel's main flaw for me despite its wonderful world building and suspenseful turns. How can you write about someone as ''great'' as Ernest Hemingway and not expand on his character beyond a few points?
All things considered, I'd still highly recommend this novel.
Note for the publisher/editor: I noticed a few mistakes in the French spellings throughout the book. For example, ''Sainte-Germaine des Prés'' is written numerous times (proper spelling is Saint-Germain-des-Prés), the novel refers to Kiki Du Montparnasse (proper spelling is Kiki de Montparnasse). I am not sure if this is intentional, but as a francophone reader, this was disorienting.
Review to be posted to Instagram closer to publication date.
Thank you to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
When a valise holding all of Ernest's manuscripts goes lost, Zoe offers to assist Hadley in locating it. Unfortunately, the valise leads to two murders: the railway porter who stole the bag and a young woman shot to death on the outskirts of a tiny settlement. With far more at stake than the lost manuscripts, Zoe is willing to put her life on the line to discover who among her adopted family is a murderer.
Webb writes lyrically and with clarity, transporting us to 1920s Paris, complete with its fashion and culture. The characters are well-drawn and realistic, and the plot is fast-paced and audacious. I was particularly taken with the depiction of racial relationships and class differences, which is rarely addressed in historical fiction.
However, I found that some characters were underdeveloped, which was the novel's main flaw for me despite its wonderful world building and suspenseful turns. How can you write about someone as ''great'' as Ernest Hemingway and not expand on his character beyond a few points?
All things considered, I'd still highly recommend this novel.
Note for the publisher/editor: I noticed a few mistakes in the French spellings throughout the book. For example, ''Sainte-Germaine des Prés'' is written numerous times (proper spelling is Saint-Germain-des-Prés), the novel refers to Kiki Du Montparnasse (proper spelling is Kiki de Montparnasse). I am not sure if this is intentional, but as a francophone reader, this was disorienting.
Review to be posted to Instagram closer to publication date.
Thank you to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for the e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
April 1, 2023
Zoe Barlow is an American artist living in post-World War One Paris, four years ago she was banished from the family plantation Beech Glen, in Alabama and by her older brother Brice and nasty step-mother.
Zoe has made friends with other artists, writers and members of Paris's bohemian crowd, including Hadley and Ernest Hemingway. Ever Wednesday she invites guests to her apartment for a poker night, they play cards, her housekeeper Madeline prepares a feast and they wash it down with lots of wine.
One day Hadley calls Zoe in a panic, she was catching a train, when a bag containing Ernest’s latest manuscript, went missing and she thinks it might have been stolen. Zoe offers to try to find it, she hires cabdriver Avak Grigoryar to ferry her around and she follows up any leads. They drive to the French countryside, in a derelict hut in the forest near Le Mesnil-Theribus, they find the bodies of a Russian man and his daughter. The rumours start circulating immediately, the young woman is of course Princess Anastasia Romanov, Zoe disputes this theory as it makes no sense and why would she be living in squalor?
Inspector Henri Challiot is assigned to the murder case, he questions both Zoe and Avak. Zoe realises the missing manuscript isn’t the criminals main objective, when other acquaintances are killed, her apartment in ransacked and her paintings are damaged and Zoe starts carrying a gun for protection.
I received a digital copy of Lost in Paris by Betty Webb from Edelweiss and Sourcebooks in exchange for an honest review. Ms. Webb’s latest novel looks at life in Paris during the 1920’s, a city full of war widows, orphans and men and women who have been injured during the war. The main character Zoe has some interesting friends, authors, artists and a Moulin Rouge dancer. At the time Paris is full of displaced Russians, this could be the reason for the tension in the city and Zoe is keeping secrets of her own. Three and a half stars from me, a historical fiction mystery and with possible ties to the Bolsheviks and Russian criminals.
Zoe has made friends with other artists, writers and members of Paris's bohemian crowd, including Hadley and Ernest Hemingway. Ever Wednesday she invites guests to her apartment for a poker night, they play cards, her housekeeper Madeline prepares a feast and they wash it down with lots of wine.
One day Hadley calls Zoe in a panic, she was catching a train, when a bag containing Ernest’s latest manuscript, went missing and she thinks it might have been stolen. Zoe offers to try to find it, she hires cabdriver Avak Grigoryar to ferry her around and she follows up any leads. They drive to the French countryside, in a derelict hut in the forest near Le Mesnil-Theribus, they find the bodies of a Russian man and his daughter. The rumours start circulating immediately, the young woman is of course Princess Anastasia Romanov, Zoe disputes this theory as it makes no sense and why would she be living in squalor?
Inspector Henri Challiot is assigned to the murder case, he questions both Zoe and Avak. Zoe realises the missing manuscript isn’t the criminals main objective, when other acquaintances are killed, her apartment in ransacked and her paintings are damaged and Zoe starts carrying a gun for protection.
I received a digital copy of Lost in Paris by Betty Webb from Edelweiss and Sourcebooks in exchange for an honest review. Ms. Webb’s latest novel looks at life in Paris during the 1920’s, a city full of war widows, orphans and men and women who have been injured during the war. The main character Zoe has some interesting friends, authors, artists and a Moulin Rouge dancer. At the time Paris is full of displaced Russians, this could be the reason for the tension in the city and Zoe is keeping secrets of her own. Three and a half stars from me, a historical fiction mystery and with possible ties to the Bolsheviks and Russian criminals.
March 13, 2023
A Grand Mystery!
Life in the artist quarters of Paris in the 1920’s. Of course all the greats are present, the artists, writers, sculptors of the time.
A deftly woven story that involves the Hemingway’s and our heroine Zoe Barlow as she tries to solve the mystery of a missing manuscript, digging herself deeper into the perceived insults, the slights, and the drama surrounding those involved. When she starts to stumble across bodies, she realizes there’s more here than meets the eye.
Webb’s brilliantly captured the time and mood of the heaving mass of artistic temperament and talent that was Paris then.
A Poisoned Pen ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
Life in the artist quarters of Paris in the 1920’s. Of course all the greats are present, the artists, writers, sculptors of the time.
A deftly woven story that involves the Hemingway’s and our heroine Zoe Barlow as she tries to solve the mystery of a missing manuscript, digging herself deeper into the perceived insults, the slights, and the drama surrounding those involved. When she starts to stumble across bodies, she realizes there’s more here than meets the eye.
Webb’s brilliantly captured the time and mood of the heaving mass of artistic temperament and talent that was Paris then.
A Poisoned Pen ARC via NetGalley.
Many thanks to the author and publisher.
April 11, 2023
Lots of twists and turns in this one. What an interesting piece of time in history. Post WWI and pre- WWII, sounds like an interesting time both in the US and overseas. I love that she was able to solve the mystery but I hate that she had to endure through such a tragic past.
🌀Synopsis
Zoe is thriving in Paris. She’s got great friends and a career she loves. When one of her friends asks for a favor, things in her life take a turn.
She ends up being involved with finding two murder scenes, one of them her very best friend. Among the speculation, Zoe keeps trying to get to the real truth of what is happening.
She’s also still grappling with the past and trying to not let the thoughts intrude. She finally must explain what happened in order to be able to move forward with this new life and be able to trust those in it.
🌀Synopsis
Zoe is thriving in Paris. She’s got great friends and a career she loves. When one of her friends asks for a favor, things in her life take a turn.
She ends up being involved with finding two murder scenes, one of them her very best friend. Among the speculation, Zoe keeps trying to get to the real truth of what is happening.
She’s also still grappling with the past and trying to not let the thoughts intrude. She finally must explain what happened in order to be able to move forward with this new life and be able to trust those in it.
July 1, 2023
3.5 This one gradually got better but it took a good 1/3 of the book for me to really get into the story and connect with the characters. I did end up feeling deeply for the main character Zoe and also liked the mysterious whodunit that was at the heart of this story.
Thank you Dreamscape Media and Netgalley for the alc in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you Dreamscape Media and Netgalley for the alc in exchange for an honest review.
April 30, 2023
The infamous real life theft of a valise containing Hermingway manuscripts is the clever jumping off point for a fictional murder mystery that centers on American ex-pat Zoe Barlow, an intrepid young woman exiled from her former life.
The idea behind this was good, though some inconsistencies in plot and tone made the book feel a bit goofy and insincere at times, if still fun to read.
Zoe’s supremely tragic backstory doesn’t quite fit with the madcap, romp-style mystery in play here. Nor does it fit with the tone of most of the book, creating a feeling of disparate plot elements that really don’t work together. Given the choice, I would have preferred that the author stay more in line with the tone and feel of the book. The true tragedy of Zoe’s backstory feels out of step (as do a few other plot points like it) from the rest of the content.
The Hemingways themselves are very minor players here and even the valise is more starting point than integral piece of the puzzle, but I think that worked just fine, as the mystery was able to stand on its own as it moved from theft to murder. And I liked Zoe, despite the mishandling of the character’s origins. The familial tensions caused by her family’s bigotry relating to her interracial relationship would have sufficed as the explanation for why she ended up in Paris. The kidnapping and torment and missing baby were just too much for this sort of book.
I did enjoy the mystery regardless, and while I wouldn’t advise using this book to learn the real history of this era in Paris, it is fun to see so many genuine historical figures cameo in the story.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
The idea behind this was good, though some inconsistencies in plot and tone made the book feel a bit goofy and insincere at times, if still fun to read.
Zoe’s supremely tragic backstory doesn’t quite fit with the madcap, romp-style mystery in play here. Nor does it fit with the tone of most of the book, creating a feeling of disparate plot elements that really don’t work together. Given the choice, I would have preferred that the author stay more in line with the tone and feel of the book. The true tragedy of Zoe’s backstory feels out of step (as do a few other plot points like it) from the rest of the content.
The Hemingways themselves are very minor players here and even the valise is more starting point than integral piece of the puzzle, but I think that worked just fine, as the mystery was able to stand on its own as it moved from theft to murder. And I liked Zoe, despite the mishandling of the character’s origins. The familial tensions caused by her family’s bigotry relating to her interracial relationship would have sufficed as the explanation for why she ended up in Paris. The kidnapping and torment and missing baby were just too much for this sort of book.
I did enjoy the mystery regardless, and while I wouldn’t advise using this book to learn the real history of this era in Paris, it is fun to see so many genuine historical figures cameo in the story.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
April 1, 2023
When I learned that Betty Webb had a new book coming out, I was thrilled. I've long been a fan of both her Lena Jones and her Gunn Zoo mystery series. Although not a real fan of the post-World War I Paris setting, I don't think it really matters when a favorite author is involved. Unfortunately, when I read Lost in Paris, I felt as though I was lost in endless research that kept what could have been a taut, absorbing mystery from its rightful place in the spotlight.
Lost in Paris is really for devotees of social commentary and stories that immerse one in a specific time and place. This book does that very well indeed, but when, as I'm reading, I begin to wonder why certain things are in a book, that tends to be a red flag. Hemingway's missing manuscripts. Zoe earns extra cash by hosting Poker Fridays at her house. Her Wednesday salons where she feeds starving artists. A cab driver who happens to be Armenian so the recent genocide can be discussed. Zoe paints masks for les Mutilés-- men whose faces were horribly disfigured in the war. The Trouser March. Mary Cassatt. Gertrude Stein. The list goes on.
Then there's Zoe's how-has-she-survived-it backstory. Her severely broken leg. The suspicious death of her father. Her evil stepmother. Zoe's scandalous behavior that got her exiled. Her younger sister's marriage and subsequent trip to Germany in which Hitler can be mentioned. I know a lot of this is setting up the characters and the series, but I was often frustrated by the mystery taking a backseat to all the historical detail.
Then there's Zoe, a character I never did warm up to. Her ill-advised affair with a married police officer-- and where is the author trying to take us with those occasional chapters written from the point of view of the police officer's wife? Yes, it's admirable that Zoe's sense of friendship is often stronger than her common sense, but there are only so many times that she can wander around alone at night almost falling down drunk before I can't resist rolling my eyes. Speaking of being drunk-- true to the times-- it's a wonder all the characters don't die of lung cancer and cirrhosis of the liver.
The mystery is very good whenever it is allowed to have center stage, but I'm completely undecided in the matter of will-I-or-won't-I read the next book in the series-- something that's never happened before with this author. I'm feeling more than a bit disloyal.
(Review copy courtesy of the publisher and Net Galley)
Lost in Paris is really for devotees of social commentary and stories that immerse one in a specific time and place. This book does that very well indeed, but when, as I'm reading, I begin to wonder why certain things are in a book, that tends to be a red flag. Hemingway's missing manuscripts. Zoe earns extra cash by hosting Poker Fridays at her house. Her Wednesday salons where she feeds starving artists. A cab driver who happens to be Armenian so the recent genocide can be discussed. Zoe paints masks for les Mutilés-- men whose faces were horribly disfigured in the war. The Trouser March. Mary Cassatt. Gertrude Stein. The list goes on.
Then there's Zoe's how-has-she-survived-it backstory. Her severely broken leg. The suspicious death of her father. Her evil stepmother. Zoe's scandalous behavior that got her exiled. Her younger sister's marriage and subsequent trip to Germany in which Hitler can be mentioned. I know a lot of this is setting up the characters and the series, but I was often frustrated by the mystery taking a backseat to all the historical detail.
Then there's Zoe, a character I never did warm up to. Her ill-advised affair with a married police officer-- and where is the author trying to take us with those occasional chapters written from the point of view of the police officer's wife? Yes, it's admirable that Zoe's sense of friendship is often stronger than her common sense, but there are only so many times that she can wander around alone at night almost falling down drunk before I can't resist rolling my eyes. Speaking of being drunk-- true to the times-- it's a wonder all the characters don't die of lung cancer and cirrhosis of the liver.
The mystery is very good whenever it is allowed to have center stage, but I'm completely undecided in the matter of will-I-or-won't-I read the next book in the series-- something that's never happened before with this author. I'm feeling more than a bit disloyal.
(Review copy courtesy of the publisher and Net Galley)
October 5, 2022
Zoe lives in the most vibrant city in Europe- Paris. With famous artists, poets, and actors circling her orbit, she should be on top of the world, but secrets from the past won’t stay buried. When her good friend, Hadley Hemmingway misplaces a suitcase carrying all of her husband’s writings, Zoe offers to search for it, only to come across one murder victim after another.
Suddenly Zoe finds herself in the middle of a murder investigation and all roads seem to lead back to one of her friends as the killer.
Set in 1920’s Paris at the end of the First World War, the author brings the time period to life with stunning detail to fashion and the french setting with its rich versus poor culture.
Zoe is a complex character. She’s a talented artist in her own right, a slick poker player, and an ingénue. Caring, loyal, and impulsive, which lands her in danger over and over again. I like how the author inserted true-life people into the storyline, adding an element of recognition and a natural curiosity to the reading experience.
An entertaining read!
Suddenly Zoe finds herself in the middle of a murder investigation and all roads seem to lead back to one of her friends as the killer.
Set in 1920’s Paris at the end of the First World War, the author brings the time period to life with stunning detail to fashion and the french setting with its rich versus poor culture.
Zoe is a complex character. She’s a talented artist in her own right, a slick poker player, and an ingénue. Caring, loyal, and impulsive, which lands her in danger over and over again. I like how the author inserted true-life people into the storyline, adding an element of recognition and a natural curiosity to the reading experience.
An entertaining read!
September 8, 2022
I was given an ARC by Netgalley & sourcebooks in exchange for an honest review. These thoughts are my own opinion. Saw this on Netgalley and thought this could be interesting as I’ve always been fascinated by the Romanov’s. But historical fictions are always a hit or miss for me.
We meet Zoe Barlow she has disgraced her family and exiled. But she has created a new family in Paris among painters Hadley & Ernest Hemingway. When Ernest life works goes missing Zoe offers to find them. But this leads to two murders one who might be Anastasia Romanov. Zoe might be next if she’s not careful.
I really liked Zoe’s character and how she is willing to do anything to clear her friends name. I liked the paint analogies and how Zoe would rather paint people verses flowers. I liked the mystery element and the possibility of it being Anastasia.
Be sure to find out how the story ends on April 4,23.
We meet Zoe Barlow she has disgraced her family and exiled. But she has created a new family in Paris among painters Hadley & Ernest Hemingway. When Ernest life works goes missing Zoe offers to find them. But this leads to two murders one who might be Anastasia Romanov. Zoe might be next if she’s not careful.
I really liked Zoe’s character and how she is willing to do anything to clear her friends name. I liked the paint analogies and how Zoe would rather paint people verses flowers. I liked the mystery element and the possibility of it being Anastasia.
Be sure to find out how the story ends on April 4,23.
May 1, 2023
I enjoy reading historical fiction, and my favorite genre is murder mysteries, so putting the two together had the potential for being a perfect book for me! Additionally, I love Paris and that’s where this novel is set.
The main character, Zoe, is a wonderful heroine who at age 22 has already endured devastating loss, injury and betrayal. She’s strong minded and intelligent, as well as brave and feisty. I liked her a lot. She’s an artist, and when she accidentally discovers two murder victims, she uses her expertise in observing people and situations to help the police find the killer.
I’m a fan of the TV shows Frankie Drake, Miss Scarlet and the Duke, and also Miss Fishers Murder Mysteries, and the plucky heroines of those shows are similar to Zoe.
I would have liked the plot to stay streamlined by focusing exclusively on the murder mystery. The author introduces multiple tangents, however, and these bored me. Every time the narrative devolved into one of the many irrelevant subplots, I felt impatient and wanted to hurry ahead to get back to the main plotline.
Long chapters are told from the point of view of a side character, Gabrielle, and in my opinion those chapters could be edited out entirely for a tighter narrative.
I’m giving Lost in Paris a solid three stars. I received an advanced audiobook from Netgalley and DreamScape Media in exchange for my honest feedback. Thank you Netgalley and DreamScape for giving me this free audiobook.
The main character, Zoe, is a wonderful heroine who at age 22 has already endured devastating loss, injury and betrayal. She’s strong minded and intelligent, as well as brave and feisty. I liked her a lot. She’s an artist, and when she accidentally discovers two murder victims, she uses her expertise in observing people and situations to help the police find the killer.
I’m a fan of the TV shows Frankie Drake, Miss Scarlet and the Duke, and also Miss Fishers Murder Mysteries, and the plucky heroines of those shows are similar to Zoe.
I would have liked the plot to stay streamlined by focusing exclusively on the murder mystery. The author introduces multiple tangents, however, and these bored me. Every time the narrative devolved into one of the many irrelevant subplots, I felt impatient and wanted to hurry ahead to get back to the main plotline.
Long chapters are told from the point of view of a side character, Gabrielle, and in my opinion those chapters could be edited out entirely for a tighter narrative.
I’m giving Lost in Paris a solid three stars. I received an advanced audiobook from Netgalley and DreamScape Media in exchange for my honest feedback. Thank you Netgalley and DreamScape for giving me this free audiobook.
April 24, 2023
With a likable protagonist, a great setting (1922 Paris), a flamboyant and eclectic cast of characters, and different kinds of trauma arising from a personal choice, or the outcomes of three large conflicts: the First World War and its damaged veterans, the Armenian genocide by Turkey, and the Russian Revolution, this book should have grabbed me immediately. Instead, though I could appreciate the great setting and story elements, my attention kept sliding away as I read. I'm not sure why, as this book has all sorts of things I enjoy. And much as I wanted to like this book, my wandering attention points to a different experience.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Poisoned Pen Press for this ARC in exchange for my review.
Thank you to Netgalley and to Poisoned Pen Press for this ARC in exchange for my review.
April 11, 2023
I love cozy mysteries and I love 1920s Paris! This had both along with an interesting murder-mystery plot.
3.5 stars
Thank you Poisoned Pen Press for my complimentary book and to libro.fm for an alc.
3.5 stars
Thank you Poisoned Pen Press for my complimentary book and to libro.fm for an alc.
March 22, 2023
Set in exuberant and glamorous 1920s Paris, Lost in Paris is about a young woman who at eighteen lost everything including her family. Zoe wound up in Paris where she became a painter a few years later and hung out with the artistic set, partying and gambling and even wearing daring clothes for the time. Her best friend Hadley Hemingway was married to the moody and irascible Ernest. Ernest's documents cause many problems and Zoe is determined to find answers. When bodies turn up, things become more twisted and tangled.
Zoe encounters infuriating but handsome and sexy Inspector Henri Challiot and sparks fly. Secrets and glamour are de riguer and this story is a glimpse into that past Parisienne golden world. Zoe is fiercely independent...she has to be...but I am not fond of her and felt no connection to any of the characters. Though fascinated by the snippets of luminaries of the time, I did not find them convincing.
Historical Fiction fans who like murder mystery and romance in their stories in a fascinating era and setting, give this a try. Lots here to like...documents, Paris café culture, glamour, interesting characters. But the main characters are unrelatable and a bit much at times. The frolicking story didn't always apeal but that's just me. In ways it has the je ne sais quois element but something was inexplicable off.
My sincere thank you to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this original novel.
Zoe encounters infuriating but handsome and sexy Inspector Henri Challiot and sparks fly. Secrets and glamour are de riguer and this story is a glimpse into that past Parisienne golden world. Zoe is fiercely independent...she has to be...but I am not fond of her and felt no connection to any of the characters. Though fascinated by the snippets of luminaries of the time, I did not find them convincing.
Historical Fiction fans who like murder mystery and romance in their stories in a fascinating era and setting, give this a try. Lots here to like...documents, Paris café culture, glamour, interesting characters. But the main characters are unrelatable and a bit much at times. The frolicking story didn't always apeal but that's just me. In ways it has the je ne sais quois element but something was inexplicable off.
My sincere thank you to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for providing me with an early digital copy of this original novel.
March 11, 2023
I chose LOST IN PARIS, a unique historical mystery, because of that glorious cover. Alas, the author captures the zeitgeist of the 1920s Lost Generation so well that it left me feeling "lost" too. I could not connect with the poor souls -- artists, writers like Hemingway, Russian escapees from the Revolution (Anastasia?) -- who numb out post-war by drinking, gambling, and sleeping around. By contrast, other histfic mystery fans drawn to tragedy will likely love this distinctive tale.
Thanks to the author, Poisoned Pen Press, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
Thanks to the author, Poisoned Pen Press, and NetGalley for the ARC. Opinions are mine.
May 20, 2023
A fun ride along the streets of Paris in the Roaring Twenties, LOST IN PARIS invites the reader into Zoe’s life as an artist. Dipping into the paint, each color seems to open a new tapestry, inviting scenes from her past in America—along with the shadows of WWI that never really disappear. Juxtaposed against the smell of cigars, booze, and turpentine—lies the mystery of a series of murders that she unravels stroke by stroke. Five stars for great pacing, an authentic voice and setting, and lovely character development.
April 10, 2023
I listened to this as an audiobook. I enjoyed listening to it on my way to and from work.
Overall I felt like this book was a whirlwind. There was a lot going on in the plot.
Characters.
The main character, Zoe, has this amazing foundation that you do build throughout the book. I feel like this could be made into a series of books to really get the full amount of depth. Zoe is an extremely strong. smart, determined women who is ready to take the bull by the horns. She shows no one mercy and is ready to step up to the plate. Zoe has a dark background that haunts her yet pushes her through the journey of the book. I would've enjoyed the book more if it were more focused on one part of Zoe rather than all of her. Like I said, I feel like this could be a great series; each book really getting into the nooks and crannies of Zoe.
There were a number of characters in this book. It was tough to keep track of all of them. Focusing in on one or two of them in this book would have made listening easier to me. *This could be something that differs if you read the book paperback and can easily flip back and forth to connect more with characters.*
The Plot.
Usually when I dive into historical fiction it is WWII, not WWI. I really enjoyed this aspect of the storyline. I feel like it thoroughly explained what was important to the plot and left out the areas that would've just been extra fluff.
Again, I think there are parts that could've been moved to form an additional book. As much as it all twined together, I would've preferred to focus on one or two. Being that it started with the gambling, I would've enjoyed more of that aspect intertwined with the war. Zoe's family history and the Hemingway aspects are additional plots that I think would make a great prequel and sequel.
Because there was so much going on, the pace was fast for me. I felt like I was jumping from one place to the next in a way that I had to listen again to ensure I was following along.
Overall I felt like this book was a whirlwind. There was a lot going on in the plot.
Characters.
The main character, Zoe, has this amazing foundation that you do build throughout the book. I feel like this could be made into a series of books to really get the full amount of depth. Zoe is an extremely strong. smart, determined women who is ready to take the bull by the horns. She shows no one mercy and is ready to step up to the plate. Zoe has a dark background that haunts her yet pushes her through the journey of the book. I would've enjoyed the book more if it were more focused on one part of Zoe rather than all of her. Like I said, I feel like this could be a great series; each book really getting into the nooks and crannies of Zoe.
There were a number of characters in this book. It was tough to keep track of all of them. Focusing in on one or two of them in this book would have made listening easier to me. *This could be something that differs if you read the book paperback and can easily flip back and forth to connect more with characters.*
The Plot.
Usually when I dive into historical fiction it is WWII, not WWI. I really enjoyed this aspect of the storyline. I feel like it thoroughly explained what was important to the plot and left out the areas that would've just been extra fluff.
Again, I think there are parts that could've been moved to form an additional book. As much as it all twined together, I would've preferred to focus on one or two. Being that it started with the gambling, I would've enjoyed more of that aspect intertwined with the war. Zoe's family history and the Hemingway aspects are additional plots that I think would make a great prequel and sequel.
Because there was so much going on, the pace was fast for me. I felt like I was jumping from one place to the next in a way that I had to listen again to ensure I was following along.
April 25, 2023
Zoe is a young artist who flits and associated with the Illuminati of 1920s Paris.
I liked the author extrapolated about the lost manuscripts of Hemingway because I’ve always thought and wondered about what happened to those.
Webb depicts Hemingway accurately and I still didn’t care for him.
Readers finally get all of Zoe’s back story which has a lot of hurt on it. Plus follow along as she solves a mystery.
It’s a good novel for the roaring 20s in Paris.
Thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for the digital copy.
I liked the author extrapolated about the lost manuscripts of Hemingway because I’ve always thought and wondered about what happened to those.
Webb depicts Hemingway accurately and I still didn’t care for him.
Readers finally get all of Zoe’s back story which has a lot of hurt on it. Plus follow along as she solves a mystery.
It’s a good novel for the roaring 20s in Paris.
Thanks to Poisoned Pen Press and NetGalley for the digital copy.
April 8, 2023
I had a tough time deciding what the purpose of this book was. It may have been because the last couple of books I read were much heavier but I couldn’t get into it. Most of the characters were introduced in the first chapter and I had to keep referring back to see who they were. There were unanswered questions at the end – what became of her sister, Gabrelle and Hadley? A quick read if you are looking for something light.
April 13, 2023
The narrators of this made me want to take on a French accent 😊
This audio book felt like an adventure, incorporating so many great people in history! The mystery is well developed, along with the characters (I really want to be Zoe’s friend). I found myself listening as often as possible just because I needed answers.
Thank you NetGalley, Betty Webb, and Dreamscape Media for the advanced listener copy for an honest review!
This audio book felt like an adventure, incorporating so many great people in history! The mystery is well developed, along with the characters (I really want to be Zoe’s friend). I found myself listening as often as possible just because I needed answers.
Thank you NetGalley, Betty Webb, and Dreamscape Media for the advanced listener copy for an honest review!
April 23, 2023
Lost in Paris-
This book was in theory a lot of fun. This novel was a historical fiction mystery, with a dabble in murder and an undercurrent of Ernest Hemingway.
It fell flat, there were quite a few things going on, and you sort of get lost. The whole Hemingway thing really irked me, even if it was accurate. That whole subplot felt like it was just to jab at the author. There was also the gambling, sleeping with a married police officers and the double homicides. Listen, I’m down for an adventure but as an audiobook it was hard to weave it into a cohesive story, and make it impactful.
What I loved: As a historical piece, it was done well. The setting of Paris in post WWI was very real, and it was easy to buy into that world.
What I hated: the affair, the multiple plot lines— is it about the gambling, Hemingway a bag, the Russians… it’s too much. I felt overwhelmed for a good portion of this book.
This book was in theory a lot of fun. This novel was a historical fiction mystery, with a dabble in murder and an undercurrent of Ernest Hemingway.
It fell flat, there were quite a few things going on, and you sort of get lost. The whole Hemingway thing really irked me, even if it was accurate. That whole subplot felt like it was just to jab at the author. There was also the gambling, sleeping with a married police officers and the double homicides. Listen, I’m down for an adventure but as an audiobook it was hard to weave it into a cohesive story, and make it impactful.
What I loved: As a historical piece, it was done well. The setting of Paris in post WWI was very real, and it was easy to buy into that world.
What I hated: the affair, the multiple plot lines— is it about the gambling, Hemingway a bag, the Russians… it’s too much. I felt overwhelmed for a good portion of this book.
October 26, 2023
I loved loved loved this book.
April 30, 2024
A clever fictional retelling of a real historical crime. Zoe's narrative voice is entertaining and unforgivingly observant in this spell binding murder mystery.
March 24, 2023
Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for a free copy in return for an honest review
DNF at 50%.
This is probably me. I'm having such a hard time getting into the book that I've been skim-reading most of it. And it's such a shame, because I'm sure that so many people will love this book.
I requested it because it combined historical Paris, the 1920's and the Romanov's in one book, but I got so distracted along the way that I lost the plotline. There's a lot of namedropping and gallivanting around without actually doing something that will further the plot, so I'm sad to say I'm gonna have to pass on this book to avoid a reading slump.
DNF at 50%.
This is probably me. I'm having such a hard time getting into the book that I've been skim-reading most of it. And it's such a shame, because I'm sure that so many people will love this book.
I requested it because it combined historical Paris, the 1920's and the Romanov's in one book, but I got so distracted along the way that I lost the plotline. There's a lot of namedropping and gallivanting around without actually doing something that will further the plot, so I'm sad to say I'm gonna have to pass on this book to avoid a reading slump.
June 19, 2023
Lost in Paris takes readers on a captivating journey through the mesmerizing world of 1920s Paris, immersing them in a rich tapestry of art, culture, and mystery. At the centre of this enchanting tale is Zoe, a young artist who flits and associates with the illustrious Illuminati, a group of talented individuals who embody the spirit of the era.
One aspect of the book that particularly intrigued me was the author's exploration of the lost manuscripts of Hemingway. For years, I had pondered the fate of these elusive writings, and Webb skilfully weaves this enigma into the narrative. His meticulous attention to detail and historical accuracy when depicting Hemingway is commendable. Despite the accuracy, however, I found myself still harbouring a sense of indifference toward the famed author.
What sets Lost in Paris apart is the unveiling of Zoe's complete backstory, which is steeped in pain and longing. Webb deftly portrays her journey, delving into her past and the events that have shaped her into the resilient and intriguing character she is. As readers accompany Zoe on her quest to solve a compelling mystery, they become fully invested in her experiences and empathize with her struggles.
The backdrop of the roaring 20s in Paris serves as the perfect stage for this enthralling novel. Webb's vivid descriptions transport the reader to the vibrant streets of the City of Light, where artistic brilliance flourishes and the pulse of the era beats with irresistible energy. The bohemian atmosphere of the time is beautifully captured, evoking a sense of nostalgia and fascination for the readers.
Lost in Paris is not merely a story, but a portal to a bygone era that pulsates with creativity and intrigue. As the pages unfold, the reader becomes an active participant, joining Zoe on her journey of self-discovery and unearthing the secrets that lie beneath the surface. Webb's masterful storytelling skill keeps readers engrossed, urging them to turn page after page in anticipation of the next revelation.
In conclusion, Lost in Paris is a captivating and well-crafted novel that celebrates the spirit of the roaring 20s in Paris. With its seamless blend of historical accuracy, compelling characters, and a mesmerizing mystery, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking an immersive literary experience. Webb's ability to transport readers to a vibrant era while unraveling the complexities of human nature is truly commendable. Prepare to be swept away in a whirlwind of art, culture, and intrigue as you delve into the pages of Lost in Paris.
One aspect of the book that particularly intrigued me was the author's exploration of the lost manuscripts of Hemingway. For years, I had pondered the fate of these elusive writings, and Webb skilfully weaves this enigma into the narrative. His meticulous attention to detail and historical accuracy when depicting Hemingway is commendable. Despite the accuracy, however, I found myself still harbouring a sense of indifference toward the famed author.
What sets Lost in Paris apart is the unveiling of Zoe's complete backstory, which is steeped in pain and longing. Webb deftly portrays her journey, delving into her past and the events that have shaped her into the resilient and intriguing character she is. As readers accompany Zoe on her quest to solve a compelling mystery, they become fully invested in her experiences and empathize with her struggles.
The backdrop of the roaring 20s in Paris serves as the perfect stage for this enthralling novel. Webb's vivid descriptions transport the reader to the vibrant streets of the City of Light, where artistic brilliance flourishes and the pulse of the era beats with irresistible energy. The bohemian atmosphere of the time is beautifully captured, evoking a sense of nostalgia and fascination for the readers.
Lost in Paris is not merely a story, but a portal to a bygone era that pulsates with creativity and intrigue. As the pages unfold, the reader becomes an active participant, joining Zoe on her journey of self-discovery and unearthing the secrets that lie beneath the surface. Webb's masterful storytelling skill keeps readers engrossed, urging them to turn page after page in anticipation of the next revelation.
In conclusion, Lost in Paris is a captivating and well-crafted novel that celebrates the spirit of the roaring 20s in Paris. With its seamless blend of historical accuracy, compelling characters, and a mesmerizing mystery, this book is a must-read for anyone seeking an immersive literary experience. Webb's ability to transport readers to a vibrant era while unraveling the complexities of human nature is truly commendable. Prepare to be swept away in a whirlwind of art, culture, and intrigue as you delve into the pages of Lost in Paris.
January 20, 2023
1922: Paris. Zoe Barlow misses her plantation home in Alabama and her younger sister, but in the four years since her family banished her for an unpardonable act, she has created a new life in Paris. The City of Lights is exciting and full of colorful characters. She counts among her friends poets, painters, writers, dilettantes, dancers, English aristocrats, and Russian ex-pats fleeing the bloody reign of the vengeful Bolsheviks.
When her friend Hadley Hemingway, wife of a journalist and would-be novelist, accidently loses all of her husband’s writings, she takes it upon herself to recover the stolen satchel and its contents. Ernest Hemingway is a bully with a violent temper and Zoe wants to save Hadley from his abusive behavior.
Zoe’s decision to help her friend opens up a Pandora’s box of troubles for her and her friends. She stumbles across a number of dead bodies, and becomes a suspect in a murder case. She and her Armenian taxi driver friend, cruising through the French countryside in his vehicle, the aptly named Grim Reaper, encounter perils around every turn. Even though a handsome police detective warns her off, she keeps on with her investigation.
Lost in Paris is a great mystery, but the star of the show is the author’s depiction of Paris in the time of the Lost Generation. Zoe’s friends and acquaintances are a who’s who of prominent painters, writers, sculptors, and other important figures. It is obvious the historic elements of the book were meticulously researched, and they blend seamlessly with the fictional mystery.
Ms. Webb is the author of two successful series, the Lena Jones mysteries and the Gunn Zoo novels. Lost in Paris is the first in a new series. The Paris mysteries are bound to be equally as excellent. Highly recommended
When her friend Hadley Hemingway, wife of a journalist and would-be novelist, accidently loses all of her husband’s writings, she takes it upon herself to recover the stolen satchel and its contents. Ernest Hemingway is a bully with a violent temper and Zoe wants to save Hadley from his abusive behavior.
Zoe’s decision to help her friend opens up a Pandora’s box of troubles for her and her friends. She stumbles across a number of dead bodies, and becomes a suspect in a murder case. She and her Armenian taxi driver friend, cruising through the French countryside in his vehicle, the aptly named Grim Reaper, encounter perils around every turn. Even though a handsome police detective warns her off, she keeps on with her investigation.
Lost in Paris is a great mystery, but the star of the show is the author’s depiction of Paris in the time of the Lost Generation. Zoe’s friends and acquaintances are a who’s who of prominent painters, writers, sculptors, and other important figures. It is obvious the historic elements of the book were meticulously researched, and they blend seamlessly with the fictional mystery.
Ms. Webb is the author of two successful series, the Lena Jones mysteries and the Gunn Zoo novels. Lost in Paris is the first in a new series. The Paris mysteries are bound to be equally as excellent. Highly recommended
April 8, 2023
I listened to two hours of this audio book and just could not bring myself to continue listening. There were so many accents represented as to be entirely disorienting, but more than that, the southern Alabama accent was so poorly done, anytime the protagonist spoke out loud it was like nails on a chalkboard to me (a born a raised southerner). Furthermore, the book seems to be done from the first person perspective, which would lead me to expect that the protagonists thoughts should have the accent also, but the narrator only uses the accent when Zoe speaks aloud. I thought this would be better since the accent is so bad but it really just becomes confusing. Also… the accent changes. It’s not consistent. It would have been less distracting to forgo attempting accents all together. The narrator was very good at pronouncing French places, which led me to believe maybe she is French, but her impersonation of a native French person speaking English felt exaggerated.
Beyond that, the storyline just wasn’t developing. There were so many characters it was hard to keep up with them all. None of them were memorable and then randomly and without warning, the reader is transported back in time to Zoe’s 8th birthday. But the POV didn’t think like an 8year old.. there were many parts that felt developmentally inappropriate for an 8year old.
Things were happening to progress the story, but it was too difficult to find the storyline in and amongst the random historical details and names and facts and reveries…
Thanks to dreamscape media and NetGalley for an advanced audiobook in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Beyond that, the storyline just wasn’t developing. There were so many characters it was hard to keep up with them all. None of them were memorable and then randomly and without warning, the reader is transported back in time to Zoe’s 8th birthday. But the POV didn’t think like an 8year old.. there were many parts that felt developmentally inappropriate for an 8year old.
Things were happening to progress the story, but it was too difficult to find the storyline in and amongst the random historical details and names and facts and reveries…
Thanks to dreamscape media and NetGalley for an advanced audiobook in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 28, 2022
Lost In Paris is a story about a young lady named Zoe who found herself living in Paris following some tragedies at home. As her mind and heart slowly heal, she becomes good friends with a group of artists who come from a variety of backgrounds and places. One day of them loses the important work of her husband, a famous writer. Zoe takes it upon herself to track down these papers, but in doing so finds herself caught up in the middle of multiple murders. Will she be able to keep her name clear, or will it cost her life ?
This story was a pretty interesting read, I enjoyed all of the historical details that many other authors tend to overlook.
Zoe's back story hurt my heart so much ! I would have loved to have read about more of it as opposed to waiting so long in the book to get into the important details.
The way her artistic group of friends was written was pretty spot on and enjoyable.
I'm on the fence about what is going on with Henri, on one hand it shows Zoe in a different light morally speaking. On the other hand I'm not really feeling that spark between them and don't fully trust him.
For spice I give this one star out five because there are no sexy scenes, it is great if you're looking for a clean read.
While Lost In Paris doesn't leave on a major cliff hanger, there's several loose ends not tied up and also a certain character that will play a huge part in the next book in a bad way.
Overall I give this story three point five stars out of five.
This story was a pretty interesting read, I enjoyed all of the historical details that many other authors tend to overlook.
Zoe's back story hurt my heart so much ! I would have loved to have read about more of it as opposed to waiting so long in the book to get into the important details.
The way her artistic group of friends was written was pretty spot on and enjoyable.
I'm on the fence about what is going on with Henri, on one hand it shows Zoe in a different light morally speaking. On the other hand I'm not really feeling that spark between them and don't fully trust him.
For spice I give this one star out five because there are no sexy scenes, it is great if you're looking for a clean read.
While Lost In Paris doesn't leave on a major cliff hanger, there's several loose ends not tied up and also a certain character that will play a huge part in the next book in a bad way.
Overall I give this story three point five stars out of five.
May 11, 2023
Protagonist Zoe, of what I hope will be a new series, takes readers to an atmospheric 1920s Paris. Zoe is an ex-pat artist who lives in a bijoux home and has weekly poker games to keep her finances in order.
Paris in the 1920s was a vibrant city that attracted writers, artists and dancers among others. Zoe knows many of them; everyone from the Hemingways, to Gertrude Stein and Alice B. Toklas, to Djuna Barnes and, and, and…Readers who recognize these names will enjoy that insider feeling.
In true fact, Hadley Hemingway once lost many of her husband’s works when a suitcase containing them was stolen. What happened to them after they were taken? Were they lost forever? Ms. Webb has some ideas about this.
In her desire to help Hadley, Zoe goes to the rundown outbuilding where two ex-pats were living because Zoe was told they were involved. Some think that one of these Russians was Anastasia. To her surprise, Zoe finds no manuscripts but rather their murdered bodies. What happened? Why? Who did this? And who went on to commit more murders?
There is so much to enjoy in this historical mystery. Recommended for those who like stories with a strong sense of place, a mix of real and fictional people and a good mystery complete with Zoe’s backstory.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for this title. All opinions are my own.
Paris in the 1920s was a vibrant city that attracted writers, artists and dancers among others. Zoe knows many of them; everyone from the Hemingways, to Gertrude Stein and Alice B. Toklas, to Djuna Barnes and, and, and…Readers who recognize these names will enjoy that insider feeling.
In true fact, Hadley Hemingway once lost many of her husband’s works when a suitcase containing them was stolen. What happened to them after they were taken? Were they lost forever? Ms. Webb has some ideas about this.
In her desire to help Hadley, Zoe goes to the rundown outbuilding where two ex-pats were living because Zoe was told they were involved. Some think that one of these Russians was Anastasia. To her surprise, Zoe finds no manuscripts but rather their murdered bodies. What happened? Why? Who did this? And who went on to commit more murders?
There is so much to enjoy in this historical mystery. Recommended for those who like stories with a strong sense of place, a mix of real and fictional people and a good mystery complete with Zoe’s backstory.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for this title. All opinions are my own.
March 9, 2023
I really enjoy historical fiction. I read it all the time. Having said that, Lost in Paris by Betty Webb just did not do it for me. The story looked interesting enough, but I never was invested in any of the characters or the reasons for some of the things the heroine, Zoe Barlow did.
Exiled to Paris after an issue in her home state of Alabama (and this information comes way too late in the story in my opinion), she has made friends with other artists. Some of the big names of the era are in this book, but alas, their backstories or their art weren't highlighted or even spoken about that much. It seems like she's always running across dead bodies and other mysteries but, I just couldn't get excited about Zoe or the other characters and what they were going through.
There will be many people who will love this book. I'm just not one of them. I do appreciate the time, effort, and research the author did, that's why I'm giving the book 3 stars. If you're a reader enamored by the 1920's and the societal changes that were ushered in during that decade, give this book a try.
Exiled to Paris after an issue in her home state of Alabama (and this information comes way too late in the story in my opinion), she has made friends with other artists. Some of the big names of the era are in this book, but alas, their backstories or their art weren't highlighted or even spoken about that much. It seems like she's always running across dead bodies and other mysteries but, I just couldn't get excited about Zoe or the other characters and what they were going through.
There will be many people who will love this book. I'm just not one of them. I do appreciate the time, effort, and research the author did, that's why I'm giving the book 3 stars. If you're a reader enamored by the 1920's and the societal changes that were ushered in during that decade, give this book a try.
February 25, 2023
3.25/5⭐️
Set in early 1920s Paris, Zoe Barlow is a 22-year-old young woman who has been exiled from her Alabama plantation home for a scandalous love affair and finds herself an artist in Paris with an eclectic menagerie of friends.
After finding some missing manuscripts for a friend, others around her are winding up murdered and she herself has been attacked. Are the deaths connected to the papers, a current political intrigue or something she hasn’t uncovered yet?
While this was an OK read, I didn’t particularly care about any of the characters. While yes, Zoe had some tragic heartbreaks in her life (her stepmom and brother were just plain evil), I mostly found her shallow and her character lacking depth. And don’t even get me started on her relationship with her police inspector lover.
But the whodunit was a surprise, and I’d be willing to try the next in series to give her a chance to grow on me.
My thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing the free early arc of Lost in Paris for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
Set in early 1920s Paris, Zoe Barlow is a 22-year-old young woman who has been exiled from her Alabama plantation home for a scandalous love affair and finds herself an artist in Paris with an eclectic menagerie of friends.
After finding some missing manuscripts for a friend, others around her are winding up murdered and she herself has been attacked. Are the deaths connected to the papers, a current political intrigue or something she hasn’t uncovered yet?
While this was an OK read, I didn’t particularly care about any of the characters. While yes, Zoe had some tragic heartbreaks in her life (her stepmom and brother were just plain evil), I mostly found her shallow and her character lacking depth. And don’t even get me started on her relationship with her police inspector lover.
But the whodunit was a surprise, and I’d be willing to try the next in series to give her a chance to grow on me.
My thanks to NetGalley and Poisoned Pen Press for providing the free early arc of Lost in Paris for review. The opinions are strictly my own.
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