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The Last Hours in Paris
From the "brilliant and bold" author of While Paris Slept comes a heartbreaking novel of love, sacrifice, identity, and the lasting consequences of WWII (Imogen Kealey, Author of Liberation).
1940s: Elise is a young French woman secretly helping the resistance in German-occupied Paris. Sebastian is a young German soldier working as a translator. They meet, fall in love, and are relishing in the unforeseen happiness they have found in one another, despite being on opposite sides of the war. After liberation, however, the young couple is tragically torn apart, with Sebastian arrested by the French resistance and Elise captured and shamed as a ‘collabo’ by her own people, before being sent to Brittany for her own protection.
The lovers are parted, each believing the other to be lost forever.
1960s: Elise and her 18-year-old daughter, Josephine, live in Brittany, France, with Soizic, a gruff and bitter Frenchwoman who took Elise in after the war. Josephine has always been told that her father was a Frenchman who died when she was a baby—but when she discovers she is, in fact, the daughter of a German soldier, she travels to England to find out more about her real father. To her shock, she learns he is not dead, but living in the U.K. where he settled after the war and made a new life with his wife, Margaret, an Englishwoman who knows nothing of his past.
When Josephine reveals that her mother Elise is still alive, Sebastian must make the most difficult decision of his life: honor his duty to his new family, or return to his first great love?
1940s: Elise is a young French woman secretly helping the resistance in German-occupied Paris. Sebastian is a young German soldier working as a translator. They meet, fall in love, and are relishing in the unforeseen happiness they have found in one another, despite being on opposite sides of the war. After liberation, however, the young couple is tragically torn apart, with Sebastian arrested by the French resistance and Elise captured and shamed as a ‘collabo’ by her own people, before being sent to Brittany for her own protection.
The lovers are parted, each believing the other to be lost forever.
1960s: Elise and her 18-year-old daughter, Josephine, live in Brittany, France, with Soizic, a gruff and bitter Frenchwoman who took Elise in after the war. Josephine has always been told that her father was a Frenchman who died when she was a baby—but when she discovers she is, in fact, the daughter of a German soldier, she travels to England to find out more about her real father. To her shock, she learns he is not dead, but living in the U.K. where he settled after the war and made a new life with his wife, Margaret, an Englishwoman who knows nothing of his past.
When Josephine reveals that her mother Elise is still alive, Sebastian must make the most difficult decision of his life: honor his duty to his new family, or return to his first great love?
433 pages, Paperback
First published July 19, 2022
154 people are currently reading
8130 people want to read
About the author
Ruth Druart
5 books397 followersThank you for visiting my author's page. As you are here, you are probably an avid reader, as I am. I grew up on the Isle of Wight, where I spent many happy days on the beach swimming and reading; still two of my favourite pastimes.
People and personalities have always fascinated me, and I studied psychology at Leicester University. Creating characters of my own in novels allows me to explore what it means to be human, in particular, what drives some people. I like to put characters in difficult situations where their morality is tested, and then add a twist.
In my early twenties I moved to Paris, where I enjoyed a career in teaching. Paris was in fact the city that inspired me to write, as I discovered its rich and troubled past, and I now run a writing group here.
Ten years ago, I completed a Masters in International Education, focusing on Third Culture Kids and their sense of belonging; a theme which runs through my first novel, While Paris Slept, set during the occupation of Paris. My second novel, The Last Hours in Paris is about a German soldier billeted to Paris during the occupation, then arrested and sent to the UK after liberation. It is out on 5th January 2023.
People and personalities have always fascinated me, and I studied psychology at Leicester University. Creating characters of my own in novels allows me to explore what it means to be human, in particular, what drives some people. I like to put characters in difficult situations where their morality is tested, and then add a twist.
In my early twenties I moved to Paris, where I enjoyed a career in teaching. Paris was in fact the city that inspired me to write, as I discovered its rich and troubled past, and I now run a writing group here.
Ten years ago, I completed a Masters in International Education, focusing on Third Culture Kids and their sense of belonging; a theme which runs through my first novel, While Paris Slept, set during the occupation of Paris. My second novel, The Last Hours in Paris is about a German soldier billeted to Paris during the occupation, then arrested and sent to the UK after liberation. It is out on 5th January 2023.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 421 reviews
August 24, 2022
It was the 1940s in Paris and the Germans had taken over the city, making it their own. Elise Chevalier, a young French woman, lived with her mother and younger sister Isabelle, with hunger always by their sides. But Elise had a secret from her family - she worked for the Resistance, smuggling children over the border, and her contact was a Frenchman, Monsieur Le Bolzec, who owned a nearby bookshop. The day that a German arrived in the shop saw the patrons scuttle for the door, while Elise glanced at him coldly...
Sebastian Kleinhaus was a reluctant German who didn't want to be in Paris, brutalising the locals. He hated the Nazis and all they stood for, and wished he was back home. Sebastian was a translator for the Germans, speaking fluent French, as his mother was a Frenchwoman. The day he met the young woman in the bookshop, he wondered if life could be different and what his future might look like.
Elise had lived in Brittany, France, for the past eighteen years with the staid and bitter but stoic Soizic who had lost both her husband and daughter to the Boche. She and her daughter Josephine owed the old woman a lot, as she had become a surrogate mother and grandmother to them both. When Josephine discovered some papers pertaining to her past, she was shattered and left immediately, angry with her mother, to do some searching. What would she find? How did it relate to her maman's time in the war?
The Last Hours in Paris is an excellent read by Ruth Druart which I thoroughly enjoyed. A lot of the book was set after the war with the life of Elise, Soizic and Josephine as the main characters. The early part of the book sees the horrors of German occupied Paris and the stuggles to survive and stay out of the clutches of the Germans. I loved Ms Druart's first book, While Paris Slept, and this one is no exception. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Hachette AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Sebastian Kleinhaus was a reluctant German who didn't want to be in Paris, brutalising the locals. He hated the Nazis and all they stood for, and wished he was back home. Sebastian was a translator for the Germans, speaking fluent French, as his mother was a Frenchwoman. The day he met the young woman in the bookshop, he wondered if life could be different and what his future might look like.
Elise had lived in Brittany, France, for the past eighteen years with the staid and bitter but stoic Soizic who had lost both her husband and daughter to the Boche. She and her daughter Josephine owed the old woman a lot, as she had become a surrogate mother and grandmother to them both. When Josephine discovered some papers pertaining to her past, she was shattered and left immediately, angry with her mother, to do some searching. What would she find? How did it relate to her maman's time in the war?
The Last Hours in Paris is an excellent read by Ruth Druart which I thoroughly enjoyed. A lot of the book was set after the war with the life of Elise, Soizic and Josephine as the main characters. The early part of the book sees the horrors of German occupied Paris and the stuggles to survive and stay out of the clutches of the Germans. I loved Ms Druart's first book, While Paris Slept, and this one is no exception. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Hachette AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
April 27, 2022
3.5 rounded up
“A portrait of war and retribution“ of “love and forgiveness“ and of polar opposite of love with hate. Paris in 1944 is under the tight yoke of Nazi control and Élise Chevalier is full of rage and doing what she can to covertly defy the unwelcome regime. Sébastian Kleinhaus wears the uniform, translates the documents he’s asked to but he’s deeply conflicted about his enforced role. Fast forward to 1963, Élise’s daughter Joséphine wants to travel and therefore requires a passport. Is Élise’s secret past catching up with her? This is a novel of love and betrayal and its devastating impact on young lives.
Parts of the novel are extremely powerful especially the wartime sections which I find immersive reading. The author captures the atmosphere in Paris of the occupation extremely well with an almost overbearing feeling of tension and with palpable anger which contrasts well with the developing situation between Élise and Sébastian. The two main characters are portrayed well do you feel Élise’s rage, frustration and impotence but for me the most interesting and powerful is the narrative of Sébastian as you genuinely feel his conflicting emotions. There are some very good scenes especially in the bookshop of Monsieur Le Bolzec which I really enjoy. It swings from making you angry to feeling sad, it’s heartbreaking and poignant at times.
However, I feel the later timeline is less effective, it starts well but then it becomes a bit predictable with, regrettably, a faint whiff of the cheese. In fairness, though, other readers enjoy this much more than I do.
Overall, this is mostly a powerful read but it doesn’t resonate for me as much as the last book. I like the inspiration for the novel as per the authors note at the end and maybe this is why Sébastian feels the most real.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Headline for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
“A portrait of war and retribution“ of “love and forgiveness“ and of polar opposite of love with hate. Paris in 1944 is under the tight yoke of Nazi control and Élise Chevalier is full of rage and doing what she can to covertly defy the unwelcome regime. Sébastian Kleinhaus wears the uniform, translates the documents he’s asked to but he’s deeply conflicted about his enforced role. Fast forward to 1963, Élise’s daughter Joséphine wants to travel and therefore requires a passport. Is Élise’s secret past catching up with her? This is a novel of love and betrayal and its devastating impact on young lives.
Parts of the novel are extremely powerful especially the wartime sections which I find immersive reading. The author captures the atmosphere in Paris of the occupation extremely well with an almost overbearing feeling of tension and with palpable anger which contrasts well with the developing situation between Élise and Sébastian. The two main characters are portrayed well do you feel Élise’s rage, frustration and impotence but for me the most interesting and powerful is the narrative of Sébastian as you genuinely feel his conflicting emotions. There are some very good scenes especially in the bookshop of Monsieur Le Bolzec which I really enjoy. It swings from making you angry to feeling sad, it’s heartbreaking and poignant at times.
However, I feel the later timeline is less effective, it starts well but then it becomes a bit predictable with, regrettably, a faint whiff of the cheese. In fairness, though, other readers enjoy this much more than I do.
Overall, this is mostly a powerful read but it doesn’t resonate for me as much as the last book. I like the inspiration for the novel as per the authors note at the end and maybe this is why Sébastian feels the most real.
With thanks to NetGalley and especially to Headline for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.
October 5, 2022
While Paris Slept is an immersive and beautiful story, and I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to have read Ruth Druart’s next novel, now available, The Last Hours in Paris. Set between Paris in the 1940s and Brittany in the 1960s, The Last Hours in Paris is a story of war and sacrifice with a powerful love story embedded.
The 1940s timeline is the story of Elise and Sebastian. They meet in a bookshop in Paris when Sebastian is stationed there. In the 1960s, Josephine seeks her birth certificate her mother does not want her to find. Her mother is hiding Josephine’s birth father from her, as well as quite a few other secrets.
I loved The Last Hours in Paris just as much as Druart’s debut. It’s a story that takes its time in a delectable way. Somewhat quiet, full of emotion and intrigue, and I absolutely adored the characters. The author’s note and inspiration for the story is not to be missed. I’m eager for what’s next by this consistent author.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and Instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
The 1940s timeline is the story of Elise and Sebastian. They meet in a bookshop in Paris when Sebastian is stationed there. In the 1960s, Josephine seeks her birth certificate her mother does not want her to find. Her mother is hiding Josephine’s birth father from her, as well as quite a few other secrets.
I loved The Last Hours in Paris just as much as Druart’s debut. It’s a story that takes its time in a delectable way. Somewhat quiet, full of emotion and intrigue, and I absolutely adored the characters. The author’s note and inspiration for the story is not to be missed. I’m eager for what’s next by this consistent author.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and Instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
September 15, 2025
3,5 O poveste de dragoste tristă și emoționantă între un ocupaționist german și o franțuzoaică, într-un Paris plin de ură și resentimente. Nu toți nemții au fost cruzi, nu toți francezii au fost loiali țării lor, dar indiferent de ceea ce au făcut în timpul ocupației au fost judecați fără a fi ascultați.
August 28, 2022
It's 1944 and Elise Chevalier is trying to go about her life in Paris during the Nazi occupation. It is painful to see her Jewish neighbors disappearing and she is cautiously trying to help behind the scenes. Sebastian Kleinhaus is a young German soldier serving as a translator. He detests the leadership he is forced to serve. He'd much prefer to read books and poetry and has found refuge in a local Paris bookstore. When Elise meets Sebastian, she is filled with hatred but comes to understand the true man behind the uniform. In Brittany, 1963, eighteen-year-old Josephine Chevalier had been raised by single-mother Elise. Her deceased father was a French war hero. While looking through papers of her mother's, she comes across a book of poetry that appears to be from someone other than her father. A man whose name begins with "S". Josephine realizes that her mother has been keeping parts of her past hidden from her.
Having been moved by Ruth Druart's previous World War II-era novel While Paris Slept, I was anxious to read The Last Hours in Paris and it did not disappoint. I was pleased to find that this book offers a unique and moving perspective from this period in history. The complex character of Sebastian, inspired by a relative of the author, was an ordinary man who was required to join the Hitler Youth and yearned to have a choice in what he could believe in. His love of Elise became everything to him but a relationship between the two was a forbidden one. This is a very emotional story about the many victims of war, the cost of following your heart and the bond between a mother and a daughter. Druart raises many questions and there are no easy answers. In a large field of World War II themed novels, this is one to check out.
Rated 4.25 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
Having been moved by Ruth Druart's previous World War II-era novel While Paris Slept, I was anxious to read The Last Hours in Paris and it did not disappoint. I was pleased to find that this book offers a unique and moving perspective from this period in history. The complex character of Sebastian, inspired by a relative of the author, was an ordinary man who was required to join the Hitler Youth and yearned to have a choice in what he could believe in. His love of Elise became everything to him but a relationship between the two was a forbidden one. This is a very emotional story about the many victims of war, the cost of following your heart and the bond between a mother and a daughter. Druart raises many questions and there are no easy answers. In a large field of World War II themed novels, this is one to check out.
Rated 4.25 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
May 16, 2023
Su šia knyga man suveikė toks atbulinis efektas. Imdama skaityti pirmąjį autorė romaną „Kol Paryžius miegojo“ – didelių lūkesčių neturėjau. Maniau, laukia dar viena meilėm ir mirtim graudinanti, Antrąjį pasaulinį karą išnaudojanti knyga, pasakojanti apie paslaptis, pasimetusias istorijos vingiuose. Klydau – romanas karą naudojo tik kaip foną, o visa koncentracija atiduota šeimos santykiams. Tėvystės dilemai ir labai labai sudėtingiems sprendimams. Originalu, nauja, netikėta ir labai įtraukė. O tai užkėlė didžiulius lūkečius „Paskutinėms valandoms Paryžiuj“. Ir, dejaaaa, knyga nuvylė... Buvo tas šablonas, kurio taip nenoriu ir vengiu.
Iš esmės, tai ytra ta istorija, kurią jau skaitėte daug kartų. Jaunutė Žozefina, 1963 metais, seniai karui pasibaigus, įtaria, jog jos mamos gyvenime būta paslpačių. Besikuisdama jos daiktuose, mergina atranda užuominą apie savo tikrąjį tėvą ir pasiryžusi viską išsiaiškinti keliauja į Paryžių. Kita istorijos linija – Žozefinos mamos Elizos jaunystė, kuomet ji pamilo ne tą, kurį turėtų ir slpta dirbu su pasipriešinimo naciams judėjimu.
Pripažinkit, tokių istorijų yra n+k ir, labai labai liūdna, bet šita visai niekuo neišsiskyrė. Neradau jokio cinkelio, jokio subtilesnio, jautresnio momento, jokio nustebinimo ir jokio originalaus plot twisto. Deja, romane nebuvo nieko, ko jau nebūčiau skaičiusi ar išgyvenusi kitų, panašių knygų puslapiuose. Jei kam tiesiog patinka visos Antro pasaulinio karo fone sukurtos istorijos ir nuo jų dar nepavargot – bandykit. Bet jie ieškot kažko šita tema, tik drąsesnio, kito kampo pasakojimo – siūlau pirmą autorės knygą „Kol Paryžius miegojo“.
Iš esmės, tai ytra ta istorija, kurią jau skaitėte daug kartų. Jaunutė Žozefina, 1963 metais, seniai karui pasibaigus, įtaria, jog jos mamos gyvenime būta paslpačių. Besikuisdama jos daiktuose, mergina atranda užuominą apie savo tikrąjį tėvą ir pasiryžusi viską išsiaiškinti keliauja į Paryžių. Kita istorijos linija – Žozefinos mamos Elizos jaunystė, kuomet ji pamilo ne tą, kurį turėtų ir slpta dirbu su pasipriešinimo naciams judėjimu.
Pripažinkit, tokių istorijų yra n+k ir, labai labai liūdna, bet šita visai niekuo neišsiskyrė. Neradau jokio cinkelio, jokio subtilesnio, jautresnio momento, jokio nustebinimo ir jokio originalaus plot twisto. Deja, romane nebuvo nieko, ko jau nebūčiau skaičiusi ar išgyvenusi kitų, panašių knygų puslapiuose. Jei kam tiesiog patinka visos Antro pasaulinio karo fone sukurtos istorijos ir nuo jų dar nepavargot – bandykit. Bet jie ieškot kažko šita tema, tik drąsesnio, kito kampo pasakojimo – siūlau pirmą autorės knygą „Kol Paryžius miegojo“.
July 7, 2022
After loving While Paris Slept by this author, I was thrilled to be invited onto the tour of Druart's latest novel.
I feel that the WWII genre is hugely saturated, and so it is a challenge for historical fiction authors to produce a novel that is powerful and memorable. While Paris Slept certainly achieved that for me.
The Last Hours in Paris is a dual timeline novel, although the majority of the book is set in 1944. The 1963 story is at the beginning and end of the novel. I would have liked the 1963 timeline to have been more interwoven into the story, but the different POVs helped to keep the readers engaged too.
The characters Elise and Sebastien are wonderful, although I do have some issue with Elise at the end. (Hard to say without spoilers!) Druart has created some strong personalities that you really care for and feel their every emotion. Elise did seem to have a milder personality as she ages, but then who doesn't?
I do still prefer While Paris Slept, but historical fiction fans will lap up this heart-wrenching emotional story.
I feel that the WWII genre is hugely saturated, and so it is a challenge for historical fiction authors to produce a novel that is powerful and memorable. While Paris Slept certainly achieved that for me.
The Last Hours in Paris is a dual timeline novel, although the majority of the book is set in 1944. The 1963 story is at the beginning and end of the novel. I would have liked the 1963 timeline to have been more interwoven into the story, but the different POVs helped to keep the readers engaged too.
The characters Elise and Sebastien are wonderful, although I do have some issue with Elise at the end. (Hard to say without spoilers!) Druart has created some strong personalities that you really care for and feel their every emotion. Elise did seem to have a milder personality as she ages, but then who doesn't?
I do still prefer While Paris Slept, but historical fiction fans will lap up this heart-wrenching emotional story.
September 10, 2022
I'm not sure where to start, I feel empty, hollowed out, after living through so much, that's how intense, raw, passionate and still anchored in a strong sense of realism, this book felt.
First I must praise the lovely writing, it's so evocative and paints a truthful picture of Paris, Brittany and England. This, to me, is crucial. It allows me to feel all the range of emotions without the sudden barrier of cliches and weird unrealistic portrayal of an event or a place I am already familiar with.
The language is beautiful, the main characters are complex and the story is truly engaging, with a fairly rapid pace. A real human tale.
I loved the book and reading it, but I still felt upset and angry in the end. So much love, but too much pain, injustice, unfairness. I was screaming, and raging. I guess I am less forgiving than our protagonist, much less self sacrificing. The bitter sweet ending was too bitter, I wanted Lise to have it all, or at least more. So in my head there is another ending. Well maybe I am just sad the book is over, I feel there was more to tell.
Now you read it !
First I must praise the lovely writing, it's so evocative and paints a truthful picture of Paris, Brittany and England. This, to me, is crucial. It allows me to feel all the range of emotions without the sudden barrier of cliches and weird unrealistic portrayal of an event or a place I am already familiar with.
The language is beautiful, the main characters are complex and the story is truly engaging, with a fairly rapid pace. A real human tale.
I loved the book and reading it, but I still felt upset and angry in the end. So much love, but too much pain, injustice, unfairness. I was screaming, and raging. I guess I am less forgiving than our protagonist, much less self sacrificing. The bitter sweet ending was too bitter, I wanted Lise to have it all, or at least more. So in my head there is another ending. Well maybe I am just sad the book is over, I feel there was more to tell.
Now you read it !
September 7, 2024
*https://www.instagram.com/mrsb_book_r...
4.5 stars
Occupied Paris is the moving backdrop for The Last Hours in Paris, grand scale novel about the power of connection, endurance, survival and hope in the face of adversity. A story that carries the reader through the depth of the war, to the fallout years after once liberation has taken place, Ruth Druart has penned an unforgettable tale.
Moving in and out of the years 1944 and 1963, The Last Hours of Paris follows the lives of Elise, a woman who experienced the depths of love and hatred following the loss of her French soldier fiancé to the German war machine. Then there is Sebastian, who is searching for something beyond the confines of his duties as an officer for a side he is utterly opposed to. How do the stories of Sebastian and Elise converge with that of Josphine chevalier, a girl on the cusp of adulthood who learns of a tragic love story that will reveal so much more about her heritage. How did two young lives manage to change the course of history?
I’m rather embarrassed to say that The Last Hours in Paris has sat on my shelves for over two years now as a review book. Kindly gifted to me by the kind folks at Hachette Australia, Ruth Druart’s 2022 historical fiction romance novel finally got my attention via a buddy reading experience with my gorgeous friend Lisa from Coffee and pages. This is one book that definitely stands the test of time, it’s full of drama, emotion, twists, turns, shocks, surprises and unexpected elements. I know Lisa and myself found it hard pressed to read this without a tissue box close at hand, it is quite devastating in places. This is a strong testament to Druart’s writing, as she is able to situate her reader in the time and place as well as specific happenings of her narrative. At times full of heart, other times filled with sadness and ire, this is a story not to be missed. If you think you have read everything World War Two and occupied Paris based, this Ruth Druart showpiece will make you think again. It hasn’t quite left my side yet.
Thanks so much again for my dear buddy reader Lisa, we went through the emotional ringer with this book choice. Let’s do another Paris themed buddy read soon!
4.5 stars
Occupied Paris is the moving backdrop for The Last Hours in Paris, grand scale novel about the power of connection, endurance, survival and hope in the face of adversity. A story that carries the reader through the depth of the war, to the fallout years after once liberation has taken place, Ruth Druart has penned an unforgettable tale.
Moving in and out of the years 1944 and 1963, The Last Hours of Paris follows the lives of Elise, a woman who experienced the depths of love and hatred following the loss of her French soldier fiancé to the German war machine. Then there is Sebastian, who is searching for something beyond the confines of his duties as an officer for a side he is utterly opposed to. How do the stories of Sebastian and Elise converge with that of Josphine chevalier, a girl on the cusp of adulthood who learns of a tragic love story that will reveal so much more about her heritage. How did two young lives manage to change the course of history?
I’m rather embarrassed to say that The Last Hours in Paris has sat on my shelves for over two years now as a review book. Kindly gifted to me by the kind folks at Hachette Australia, Ruth Druart’s 2022 historical fiction romance novel finally got my attention via a buddy reading experience with my gorgeous friend Lisa from Coffee and pages. This is one book that definitely stands the test of time, it’s full of drama, emotion, twists, turns, shocks, surprises and unexpected elements. I know Lisa and myself found it hard pressed to read this without a tissue box close at hand, it is quite devastating in places. This is a strong testament to Druart’s writing, as she is able to situate her reader in the time and place as well as specific happenings of her narrative. At times full of heart, other times filled with sadness and ire, this is a story not to be missed. If you think you have read everything World War Two and occupied Paris based, this Ruth Druart showpiece will make you think again. It hasn’t quite left my side yet.
Thanks so much again for my dear buddy reader Lisa, we went through the emotional ringer with this book choice. Let’s do another Paris themed buddy read soon!
April 15, 2023
Originele recensie: https://bazarow.com/recensie/afscheid...
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Afscheid van Parijs is een ontroerende historische roman die zich in twee tijdlijnen afspeelt. Enerzijds lees je vanuit het perspectief van Josephine in 1960, anderzijds zie je flarden van Elise en Sebastian, een Duitse soldaat ten tijde van de Tweede Wereldoorlog.
Josephine weet niet anders dan dat haar vader een Fransman was en tijdens de Tweede Wereldoorlog is overleden. Maar dan ontdekt ze dat haar vader eigenlijk een Duitse soldaat was en staat haar wereld op haar kop. Ze is immers opgegroeid met het idee dat alle Duitsers slecht zijn…
Elise woont in bezet Parijs en komt daar de Duitse vertaler Sebastian tegen. Ze worden onbedoeld hopeloos verliefd, maar worden ruw uit elkaar gehaald na de bevrijding. Elise wordt gezien als verrader en vlucht naar Bretagne. Sebastian wordt opgepakt.
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Afkomst zegt niet alles
Tijdens en vlak na de Tweede Wereldoorlog waren alle Duitsers slecht en iedereen die op een vriendschappelijke manier (of erger) omging met een Duitser, was een verrader. Ruth Druart laat in Afscheid van Parijs zien dat het veel genuanceerder is en dat een verhaal twee kanten kent.
Elise is een pittige jongedame tijdens de Tweede Wereldoorlog en heeft, zoals velen, een hekel aan iedereen met een Duits uniform. Sebastian, die in Parijs aan het werk is als vertaler, verafschuwt zijn uniform en voelt zich eenzaam. De twee ontmoeten elkaar en er ontvouwt zich een prachtige, maar verboden liefde. Samen laten ze zien dat afkomst niet bepaald wie jij bent en wat je doet en dat liefde, zelfs in de meest duistere momenten, zijn weg vindt.
Elise is niet eerlijk geweest tegen Josephine over haar afkomst en geschiedenis, doordat het te pijnlijk is maar ook om Josephine te kunnen beschermen. Wanneer Josephine, zelf op dat moment slechts 18 jaar, erachter komt dat haar moeder heeft gelogen, wordt ze woedend. Ze vlucht van huis en worstelt met de gevoelens. Hoe kan ze haar moeder nu ooit nog vertrouwen?
Vaak staan handelingen en grote gebeurtenissen centraal in historische romans, maar in Afscheid van Parijs draait het juist om de dynamiek tussen de personages. De gevoelens en emoties die de hoofdpersonages ervaren, de leugens en het bedrog waar ieder zich schuldig aan maakte. Druart heeft dit op een hele mooie en emotionele manier beschreven. Je wordt meegezogen in het meeslepende drama van deze families.
De schrijfstijl van Druart is prettig. Het is toegankelijk, goed te volgen en draait niet om de zaken heen. In combinatie met de korte hoofdstukken en de verschillende tijdslijnen zorgt dit ervoor dat je snel door het boek heen kan gaan. Aan het verspringen van de perspectieven moest ik even wennen aan het begin, maar dit zorgt ervoor dat je een volledig beeld krijgt.
Ruth Duart woont in Parijs, waar ze les geeft op een internationale school. Ze werd bekend met haar historische roman Toen Parijs sliep.
De ontknoping van het verhaal is onverwachts spannend en zorgt ervoor dat je het boek liever niet weglegt, maar het einde voelt helaas niet goed of compleet afgerond. Afscheid van Parijs is zeker een aanrader voor liefhebbers van dit genre, maar ik raad je aan om de achterflap niet te lezen, gezien deze te veel informatie prijsgeeft en het verrassende aan dit verhaal weghaalt, wat jammer is.
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Afscheid van Parijs is een ontroerende historische roman die zich in twee tijdlijnen afspeelt. Enerzijds lees je vanuit het perspectief van Josephine in 1960, anderzijds zie je flarden van Elise en Sebastian, een Duitse soldaat ten tijde van de Tweede Wereldoorlog.
Josephine weet niet anders dan dat haar vader een Fransman was en tijdens de Tweede Wereldoorlog is overleden. Maar dan ontdekt ze dat haar vader eigenlijk een Duitse soldaat was en staat haar wereld op haar kop. Ze is immers opgegroeid met het idee dat alle Duitsers slecht zijn…
Elise woont in bezet Parijs en komt daar de Duitse vertaler Sebastian tegen. Ze worden onbedoeld hopeloos verliefd, maar worden ruw uit elkaar gehaald na de bevrijding. Elise wordt gezien als verrader en vlucht naar Bretagne. Sebastian wordt opgepakt.
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Afkomst zegt niet alles
Tijdens en vlak na de Tweede Wereldoorlog waren alle Duitsers slecht en iedereen die op een vriendschappelijke manier (of erger) omging met een Duitser, was een verrader. Ruth Druart laat in Afscheid van Parijs zien dat het veel genuanceerder is en dat een verhaal twee kanten kent.
Elise is een pittige jongedame tijdens de Tweede Wereldoorlog en heeft, zoals velen, een hekel aan iedereen met een Duits uniform. Sebastian, die in Parijs aan het werk is als vertaler, verafschuwt zijn uniform en voelt zich eenzaam. De twee ontmoeten elkaar en er ontvouwt zich een prachtige, maar verboden liefde. Samen laten ze zien dat afkomst niet bepaald wie jij bent en wat je doet en dat liefde, zelfs in de meest duistere momenten, zijn weg vindt.
Elise is niet eerlijk geweest tegen Josephine over haar afkomst en geschiedenis, doordat het te pijnlijk is maar ook om Josephine te kunnen beschermen. Wanneer Josephine, zelf op dat moment slechts 18 jaar, erachter komt dat haar moeder heeft gelogen, wordt ze woedend. Ze vlucht van huis en worstelt met de gevoelens. Hoe kan ze haar moeder nu ooit nog vertrouwen?
Vaak staan handelingen en grote gebeurtenissen centraal in historische romans, maar in Afscheid van Parijs draait het juist om de dynamiek tussen de personages. De gevoelens en emoties die de hoofdpersonages ervaren, de leugens en het bedrog waar ieder zich schuldig aan maakte. Druart heeft dit op een hele mooie en emotionele manier beschreven. Je wordt meegezogen in het meeslepende drama van deze families.
De schrijfstijl van Druart is prettig. Het is toegankelijk, goed te volgen en draait niet om de zaken heen. In combinatie met de korte hoofdstukken en de verschillende tijdslijnen zorgt dit ervoor dat je snel door het boek heen kan gaan. Aan het verspringen van de perspectieven moest ik even wennen aan het begin, maar dit zorgt ervoor dat je een volledig beeld krijgt.
Ruth Duart woont in Parijs, waar ze les geeft op een internationale school. Ze werd bekend met haar historische roman Toen Parijs sliep.
De ontknoping van het verhaal is onverwachts spannend en zorgt ervoor dat je het boek liever niet weglegt, maar het einde voelt helaas niet goed of compleet afgerond. Afscheid van Parijs is zeker een aanrader voor liefhebbers van dit genre, maar ik raad je aan om de achterflap niet te lezen, gezien deze te veel informatie prijsgeeft en het verrassende aan dit verhaal weghaalt, wat jammer is.
April 27, 2023
Hetki ennen lähtöä lukeminen oli oikein kunnon cry fest. Kyynelehdin kirjaa lukiessa enemmän, mitä olen itkenyt yhteensä viimeisen puolen vuoden aikana. Sotaan sijoittuva aikataso oli mielenkiintoisin ja kuvasi elävästi millaista painajaista elämä saksalaisten miehittämässä Pariisissa oli. Silti Elisé rakastuu saksalaiseen sotilaaseen, Sebastianiin. Rakkaus heidän välillään on äärimmäisen kielletty ja vaarallinen, mutta nuori nainen ei voi tunteilleen mitään. Sodan päättyessä pariskunta revitään erilleen ja he kumpikin luulevat toistensa kuolleen. 60-luvulla Elisén tytär saa tietää kuka on todella hänen isänsä ja selvittää äitinsä syvälle hautaamat salaisuudet menneisyydestään ja hänen natsi-isästään.
Tää kirja repi mun sielun rikki, porautui suoraan ihon alle. Ahmin kirjaa eteenpäin, juoni oli rakennettu taidokkaasti ja syvensi jokaisen henkilöhahmon tarinaa niin paljon, että se puristi sielua entistä tiukemmin. Tunsin nahoissani Sebastianin tunteiden ristiriitaisuuden, Elisen haikeuden - voi täyttymätön rakkaus. Kiinnostavaa kirjassa on myös asetelma, jossa Sebastian on osa viholliskoneistoa. Kollektiivinen ajatus on että natsit olivat pahoja. He tekivät kauheuksia, olivat osa tuhoamiskoneistoa, vaikka eivät kaikki itse suoraan osallistuneet juutalaisten ja muiden ihmisryhmien surmaamiseen. Sebastian on natsi, osa koneistoa, mutta sisällä ajattelee asioista eri tavalla. Hän on diktatuurin ja olosuhteiden uhri, mutta kykenemätön kapinoimaan suoraan Hitlerin koneistoa vastaan. Hän olisi muuten päässyt hengestään. Lukijan sympatia kääntyy tarinan edetessä hänen puolelleen ja lukijan kuva vihollisesta, pahasta natsista, murtuu. Jopa sodan keskellä oli kuitenkin ihmisiä, jotka näkivät yksilöt koneen sisällä. Hyvänä esimerkkinä kirjakaupan pitäjä, jolla oli sydän paikallaan.
Hyvin kirjoitettu teos, aivan kuten Druartin aiemmin suomennettu Viimeinen yö Pariisissa, joka sai myös minut kyynelehtimään. Druartilla on tarinankerronnan taito hyppysissään ja hän saa itkettyä jopa tälläistä lukijaa, joka ei herkästi itke. Niin upea kirja, täydellinen lukukokemus!
Tää kirja repi mun sielun rikki, porautui suoraan ihon alle. Ahmin kirjaa eteenpäin, juoni oli rakennettu taidokkaasti ja syvensi jokaisen henkilöhahmon tarinaa niin paljon, että se puristi sielua entistä tiukemmin. Tunsin nahoissani Sebastianin tunteiden ristiriitaisuuden, Elisen haikeuden - voi täyttymätön rakkaus. Kiinnostavaa kirjassa on myös asetelma, jossa Sebastian on osa viholliskoneistoa. Kollektiivinen ajatus on että natsit olivat pahoja. He tekivät kauheuksia, olivat osa tuhoamiskoneistoa, vaikka eivät kaikki itse suoraan osallistuneet juutalaisten ja muiden ihmisryhmien surmaamiseen. Sebastian on natsi, osa koneistoa, mutta sisällä ajattelee asioista eri tavalla. Hän on diktatuurin ja olosuhteiden uhri, mutta kykenemätön kapinoimaan suoraan Hitlerin koneistoa vastaan. Hän olisi muuten päässyt hengestään. Lukijan sympatia kääntyy tarinan edetessä hänen puolelleen ja lukijan kuva vihollisesta, pahasta natsista, murtuu. Jopa sodan keskellä oli kuitenkin ihmisiä, jotka näkivät yksilöt koneen sisällä. Hyvänä esimerkkinä kirjakaupan pitäjä, jolla oli sydän paikallaan.
Hyvin kirjoitettu teos, aivan kuten Druartin aiemmin suomennettu Viimeinen yö Pariisissa, joka sai myös minut kyynelehtimään. Druartilla on tarinankerronnan taito hyppysissään ja hän saa itkettyä jopa tälläistä lukijaa, joka ei herkästi itke. Niin upea kirja, täydellinen lukukokemus!
June 21, 2023
,,Paskutinės valandos Paryžiuje" - romanas apie tai kokią didelę galią turi žodžiai, apie nepamirštamą meilę ir atleidimo svarbą.
Žozefina visą gyvenime jautė jog nuo jos yra slepiama tikroji tiesa apie tėvą. Maištaudama prieš mamos valią ji netikėtai atranda paslėptus dokumentus. O tikroji tiesa sukrečianti, bauginanti ir gali būti sunkiai suvokiama.
Žozefina išvyksta į Paryžių, kuriame atranda pavojingos meilės istoriją ir išdavystę, visam laikui pakeitusią dviejų jaunų žmonių likimus.
Labai graži meilės istorija karo kontekste. Ypač kai mylimieji, prancūzė ir vokietis. Meilė pajėgi ištverti, viską tik ar ji atsilaikytų ir prieš tokį karą.
Tikrai graži meilės istorija, jautri ir savita. Tačiau tik tiek, pasigedau gilesnių jausmų, gilesnio pasikapstymo pačioje istorijoje. Kažko labai sukrečiančio taip pat nėra. Pasigedau išskirtinumo, nors istorija ir liūdna, bet tokių labai daug
Žozefina visą gyvenime jautė jog nuo jos yra slepiama tikroji tiesa apie tėvą. Maištaudama prieš mamos valią ji netikėtai atranda paslėptus dokumentus. O tikroji tiesa sukrečianti, bauginanti ir gali būti sunkiai suvokiama.
Žozefina išvyksta į Paryžių, kuriame atranda pavojingos meilės istoriją ir išdavystę, visam laikui pakeitusią dviejų jaunų žmonių likimus.
Labai graži meilės istorija karo kontekste. Ypač kai mylimieji, prancūzė ir vokietis. Meilė pajėgi ištverti, viską tik ar ji atsilaikytų ir prieš tokį karą.
Tikrai graži meilės istorija, jautri ir savita. Tačiau tik tiek, pasigedau gilesnių jausmų, gilesnio pasikapstymo pačioje istorijoje. Kažko labai sukrečiančio taip pat nėra. Pasigedau išskirtinumo, nors istorija ir liūdna, bet tokių labai daug
April 7, 2022
The Last Hours In Paris by Ruth Druart is a powerful dual timeline novel that consumed me.
The action is set in Paris in 1944 and in a provincial village in 1963. It alternates between the two time periods and from three different points of view. “The past is part of who we are.” It links to the present as it cannot be severed. A lost life is calling with bittersweet memories.
Paris of 1944 was under Nazi occupation. It was a terrifying time. A period of distrust and distress. Lives could be interrupted at any time.
Against this backdrop, love can still bud and blossom. There were pockets of happiness creating warm memories.
Not all Germans were Nazis. We follow some of the action through the eyes of a broken young man, reluctantly conscripted into the Hitler youth, and then the war. At the eastern front he witnessed scenes that cannot be ‘unseen’ and was forever changed.
It was not only the residents of Paris who were held captive. “He wondered what it would be like to be free. To have choices.” We see the desire to just get dressed in ordinary clothes and not to have to put on a Nazi uniform. A deep longing to be just who he was created to be.
There were scenes of extraordinary bravery as ordinary people go the extra mile to help the vulnerable.
We witness the prejudice, judgement and cruelty of the ordinary residents of Paris. As the Nazis move out, the residents appoint themselves judge, jury and executioner of the innocent.
There is a search for roots. We all long to know where we have come from.
The Last Hours In Paris totally consumed me. It was such a powerful read… and it was all about love in its various forms. Grab yourself a copy today, you’ll be glad you did.
I received a free copy from the publishers via Net Galley. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
The action is set in Paris in 1944 and in a provincial village in 1963. It alternates between the two time periods and from three different points of view. “The past is part of who we are.” It links to the present as it cannot be severed. A lost life is calling with bittersweet memories.
Paris of 1944 was under Nazi occupation. It was a terrifying time. A period of distrust and distress. Lives could be interrupted at any time.
Against this backdrop, love can still bud and blossom. There were pockets of happiness creating warm memories.
Not all Germans were Nazis. We follow some of the action through the eyes of a broken young man, reluctantly conscripted into the Hitler youth, and then the war. At the eastern front he witnessed scenes that cannot be ‘unseen’ and was forever changed.
It was not only the residents of Paris who were held captive. “He wondered what it would be like to be free. To have choices.” We see the desire to just get dressed in ordinary clothes and not to have to put on a Nazi uniform. A deep longing to be just who he was created to be.
There were scenes of extraordinary bravery as ordinary people go the extra mile to help the vulnerable.
We witness the prejudice, judgement and cruelty of the ordinary residents of Paris. As the Nazis move out, the residents appoint themselves judge, jury and executioner of the innocent.
There is a search for roots. We all long to know where we have come from.
The Last Hours In Paris totally consumed me. It was such a powerful read… and it was all about love in its various forms. Grab yourself a copy today, you’ll be glad you did.
I received a free copy from the publishers via Net Galley. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
September 27, 2022
Charged, poignant, and absorbing!
The Last Hours in Paris is a passionate, moving tale set in France during 1944, as well as 1963 that takes you into the lives of Elise Chevalier and Sebastian Kleinhaus, two people from different backgrounds whose forbidden love will risk their safety, freedom, and ultimately change their lives forever.
The prose is eloquent and polished. The characters are courageous, driven, and resilient. And the plot, including all the subplots, unravel and intertwine seamlessly into an alluring tale of life, loss, family, tragedy, desperation, secrets, danger, friendship, parenthood, separation, survival, war, and love.
Overall, The Last Hours in Paris is a rich, evocative, heart-wrenching novel by Druart that grabs you from the very first page and is sure to be a big hit with historical fiction lovers everywhere. It is undoubtedly one of my favourite novels of the year, and just like her previous novel, While Paris Slept, I highly recommend it.
Thank you to Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Last Hours in Paris is a passionate, moving tale set in France during 1944, as well as 1963 that takes you into the lives of Elise Chevalier and Sebastian Kleinhaus, two people from different backgrounds whose forbidden love will risk their safety, freedom, and ultimately change their lives forever.
The prose is eloquent and polished. The characters are courageous, driven, and resilient. And the plot, including all the subplots, unravel and intertwine seamlessly into an alluring tale of life, loss, family, tragedy, desperation, secrets, danger, friendship, parenthood, separation, survival, war, and love.
Overall, The Last Hours in Paris is a rich, evocative, heart-wrenching novel by Druart that grabs you from the very first page and is sure to be a big hit with historical fiction lovers everywhere. It is undoubtedly one of my favourite novels of the year, and just like her previous novel, While Paris Slept, I highly recommend it.
Thank you to Grand Central Publishing for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 10, 2022
As always when I start a new book from an author I’ve previously loved reading I’m always slightly nervous in case the book doesn’t appeal to me . Well absolutely no need for me to worry there. The Last Hours in Paris had me utterly and completely captivated from the very beginning. A fantastic story based mainly in Paris towards the end of World War 2 and England / Brittany in 1963. This book was amazing and the descriptions written by the author I could literally imagine being in the places that were described in the book. This is a must read for fans of Historical Fiction.
November 14, 2023
Neskaitau itin daug romanų karo tematika, tad po kurio laiko paimti tokią istoriją į rankas, man tikrai patinka.
1963-ieji. Aštuoniolikmetė Žozefina jaučia, jog mama turi didelę paslaptį. Ta nuojauta jos neapleidžia ir galiausiai mergina randa mamos paslėptus dokumentus, kurie atskleidžia daug apie praeitį, tačiau palieka ir dar daugiau klausimų..
Paryžiuje 1944-aisiais metais Eliza būdama dar visai jauna sužinojo ką reiškia surasti tikrąją savo gyvenimo meilę.. Ir jos netekti.. Manydama, jog Eliza prarado Sebastianą visiems laikams, jauna moteris palieka gimtąjį kraštą ir savo gyvenimą ima kurti svetur. Tačiau likimas jai yra paruošęs dar vieną staigmeną.
Nieko nenustebinsiu pasakydama, jog ši istorija nebuvo iš linksmųjų. Antrasis pasaulinis karas, patiriamas neapsakomas žiaurumas, prievarta, badas.. Nors istorija ir skaudi, tačiau ją perskaičiau gana greitai. Kūrinio pradžia man pasirodė tikrai intriguojanti bei įtraukianti. Truputį vėliau mano susidomėjimas buvo nuslopęs, o knygos atomazga man pasirodė kiek per daug melodramatiška. Nepaisant to, turėjau gerą laiką su šia knyga, tačiau ji tikrai nebuvo iš tokių, kuri ilgam išliks mano atmintyje.
1963-ieji. Aštuoniolikmetė Žozefina jaučia, jog mama turi didelę paslaptį. Ta nuojauta jos neapleidžia ir galiausiai mergina randa mamos paslėptus dokumentus, kurie atskleidžia daug apie praeitį, tačiau palieka ir dar daugiau klausimų..
Paryžiuje 1944-aisiais metais Eliza būdama dar visai jauna sužinojo ką reiškia surasti tikrąją savo gyvenimo meilę.. Ir jos netekti.. Manydama, jog Eliza prarado Sebastianą visiems laikams, jauna moteris palieka gimtąjį kraštą ir savo gyvenimą ima kurti svetur. Tačiau likimas jai yra paruošęs dar vieną staigmeną.
Nieko nenustebinsiu pasakydama, jog ši istorija nebuvo iš linksmųjų. Antrasis pasaulinis karas, patiriamas neapsakomas žiaurumas, prievarta, badas.. Nors istorija ir skaudi, tačiau ją perskaičiau gana greitai. Kūrinio pradžia man pasirodė tikrai intriguojanti bei įtraukianti. Truputį vėliau mano susidomėjimas buvo nuslopęs, o knygos atomazga man pasirodė kiek per daug melodramatiška. Nepaisant to, turėjau gerą laiką su šia knyga, tačiau ji tikrai nebuvo iš tokių, kuri ilgam išliks mano atmintyje.
September 21, 2022
5.0
Occupation, pack of lies, estrangement, 101…
“Paris was sleeping- waiting to be rescued. The occupation took the heart out of Paris.”
Elise works in a bank in 1944 Paris. She meets Sebastian, a 1/2 French, 1/2 German soldier stationed in Paris, serving as a translator. He is disillusioned and seeks a hideaway in a local bookshop, where he meets Elise.
In 1963, eighteen-year-old Josephine, daughter of single mother Elise, discovers some deeply hidden secrets about her mother’s past. She goes sleuthing in Paris and discovers that everything she has been told about her father is a lie. She learns about her mother’s life as Paris fought for her freedom.
Why did Elise leave Paris for Brittany?
What did Elise’s mother do that changed her family’s lives forever?
How do lives change when Josephine at age eighteen, wants to take a graduation trip to England?
* A tear jerker ending!
* Another WWII book where mother (not Grandma!) has secrets. This book was unique among plenty of WWII books.
* I liked While Paris Slept by the same author.
* A gripping, emotional story.
* I saw this on somebody’s Goodreads want to read list. Glad I saw it!
Occupation, pack of lies, estrangement, 101…
“Paris was sleeping- waiting to be rescued. The occupation took the heart out of Paris.”
Elise works in a bank in 1944 Paris. She meets Sebastian, a 1/2 French, 1/2 German soldier stationed in Paris, serving as a translator. He is disillusioned and seeks a hideaway in a local bookshop, where he meets Elise.
In 1963, eighteen-year-old Josephine, daughter of single mother Elise, discovers some deeply hidden secrets about her mother’s past. She goes sleuthing in Paris and discovers that everything she has been told about her father is a lie. She learns about her mother’s life as Paris fought for her freedom.
Why did Elise leave Paris for Brittany?
What did Elise’s mother do that changed her family’s lives forever?
How do lives change when Josephine at age eighteen, wants to take a graduation trip to England?
* A tear jerker ending!
* Another WWII book where mother (not Grandma!) has secrets. This book was unique among plenty of WWII books.
* I liked While Paris Slept by the same author.
* A gripping, emotional story.
* I saw this on somebody’s Goodreads want to read list. Glad I saw it!
February 6, 2023
Apparently I am in the minority not giving this 4-5 stars. 🥴 To be honest, I felt like a high schooler could have written this. The sentences were so simplistic, many only 5-6 words, and some of the chapters only 2-3 pages? The story jumped so quickly from event to event with little to no build up. It felt like this book could have been amazing but was missing so much, while at the same time it felt super long? 🤷🏼♀️ I was never dying to pick this book up again until maybe the last section. And then I was saddened by the ending. Not that it isn’t realistic, many stories don’t have a happy ending, especially when it revolves around WWII. But I have read plenty of excellent, yet sad, books around that time period where people die and loves never reunite that didn’t leave me feeling disappointed. I guess I felt like after slogging through the book at least there would be a happier ending for Elise & Sebastian.
That being said, I did appreciate the different perspective of what it would be like as a Nazi soldier who was forced into the Hitler youth against his will, never truly believing in the cause or the war. It reminded me a little of the perspective you get in “All the Light We Cannot See”. But that book was amazing! This one was just kind of meh? I have not read her first book “While Paris Slept”, maybe I’ll give it a try and see if it’s any better….
That being said, I did appreciate the different perspective of what it would be like as a Nazi soldier who was forced into the Hitler youth against his will, never truly believing in the cause or the war. It reminded me a little of the perspective you get in “All the Light We Cannot See”. But that book was amazing! This one was just kind of meh? I have not read her first book “While Paris Slept”, maybe I’ll give it a try and see if it’s any better….
January 24, 2023
⭐4.5 stars⭐
July 27, 2025
Habiendo leído y disfrutado el libro anterior de la autora, supe que no podía perderme éste.
Chica de la Resistencia francesa se enamora contra todo pronóstico de un oficial alemán durante la Segunda Guerra Mundial. Sabemos que la tragedia está servida. Especialmente porque su amor nace de terribles circunstancias, de lo más hondo de sus corazones necesitados y de sus espíritus nobles e inocentes.
La narración es sencilla pero logra evocar la ambientación histórica de su tiempo, desde el miedo en las calles con toque de queda hasta la euforia durante la liberación de París, pasando por las aciagas represalias que sufrieron los colaboradores con el régimen nazi en Francia. Un episodio que aquí se refleja, si no con excesivo detalle, sí con la suficiente crudeza y honestidad para conmover. Me ha gustado muchísimo la relación entre la pareja, aunque sea tan triste lo que les pasa.
La novela se ambienta en junio de 1944 y luego veinte años después con las reverberaciones de la relación prohibida en una época muy diferente pero con la misma familia y entorno. He llorado a mares. Soy sensible para estas cosas, sobre todo si hay amor de por medio. Lo hay de distintos tipos, pero el romántico es intenso y trágico. Ya me imaginaba yo que la relación se iba a truncar, dado el tema y la frase promocional en la cubierta, pero la trama pega unos giros aquí y allá y acaba sirviendo un dramón gigantesco en cuanto a lo personal en medio de la capital francesa resquebrajada que logra revivir en las siguientes décadas.
La prosa de la autora logra retratar cada latido, cada pérdida, cada sacrificio, injusticia y renuncia irrevocable de esta pareja que nunca debió conocerse y cuyo destino queda irremediablemente alterado por su amor prohibido. He amado la historia pero me ha dolido hasta el final que por realista no deja de ser poético y sentido hasta lo más profundo.
Chica de la Resistencia francesa se enamora contra todo pronóstico de un oficial alemán durante la Segunda Guerra Mundial. Sabemos que la tragedia está servida. Especialmente porque su amor nace de terribles circunstancias, de lo más hondo de sus corazones necesitados y de sus espíritus nobles e inocentes.
La narración es sencilla pero logra evocar la ambientación histórica de su tiempo, desde el miedo en las calles con toque de queda hasta la euforia durante la liberación de París, pasando por las aciagas represalias que sufrieron los colaboradores con el régimen nazi en Francia. Un episodio que aquí se refleja, si no con excesivo detalle, sí con la suficiente crudeza y honestidad para conmover. Me ha gustado muchísimo la relación entre la pareja, aunque sea tan triste lo que les pasa.
La novela se ambienta en junio de 1944 y luego veinte años después con las reverberaciones de la relación prohibida en una época muy diferente pero con la misma familia y entorno. He llorado a mares. Soy sensible para estas cosas, sobre todo si hay amor de por medio. Lo hay de distintos tipos, pero el romántico es intenso y trágico. Ya me imaginaba yo que la relación se iba a truncar, dado el tema y la frase promocional en la cubierta, pero la trama pega unos giros aquí y allá y acaba sirviendo un dramón gigantesco en cuanto a lo personal en medio de la capital francesa resquebrajada que logra revivir en las siguientes décadas.
La prosa de la autora logra retratar cada latido, cada pérdida, cada sacrificio, injusticia y renuncia irrevocable de esta pareja que nunca debió conocerse y cuyo destino queda irremediablemente alterado por su amor prohibido. He amado la historia pero me ha dolido hasta el final que por realista no deja de ser poético y sentido hasta lo más profundo.
October 23, 2022
3.5-4⭐️
September 21, 2022
4.5 ⭐️
September 22, 2022
wat een prachtexemplaar!
Genoten van iedere pagina. Een aanrader voor wie graag past - present verhalen leest over de oorlog.
Genoten van iedere pagina. Een aanrader voor wie graag past - present verhalen leest over de oorlog.
July 24, 2023
Keistas įspūdis susidarė perskaičius šį romaną: tarsi jau skaityta ar matyta, jau žinoma, nors įdomu. Skaitydamas vis tikėjausi, kad veiksmas pakryps nelauktai, autorė ras išradingų siužeto posūkių. Deja, veiksmas, vykstantis 1944-45 m., aprašytas gana neįtikinamai, neįtaigus, tačiau dėka to, kad autorė geba kurti intrigą, skaityti norisi (o gal tiesiog priprantama prie tokio paviršutiniško aprašinėjimo). Tiesa, vienas įvykis – susidorojimas su pagrindine romano heroje išvadavus Paryžių, apkaltinus ją kolaboravimu su okupantais, aprašytas meistriškai, sukelia daug skaitytojo emocijų.
Palengva skaitytojas priartėja prie dabartinių laikų, kai romano veiksmas kur kas įtikinamesnis. Tačiau klausimų vis kyla: kodėl vokiečių kareivis, turintis senelę prancūzę ir puikiai kalbantis prancūziškai, po karo pasirenka gyvenimui Angliją? Gal todėl, kad romano autorė – anglė? Autorę tikrai verta gerbti už drąsą: anglei aprašyti vokiečių ir prancūzų santykius karo ir pokario metu tikrai nebuvo lengva.
Romanas iš esmės be pabaigos, ir tai jį gelbsti, nes situacija pabaigoje lengvai galėjo būti išspręsta pagal „muilo operos“ kanonus. O gal autorė pasiliko galimybę parašyti tęsinį?
Reziumuoju: vienas iš tų atvejų, kai knygą labai sunku įvertinti. Pliusai: siužetas įdomus, sukeliantis emocijas, stilius – neblogas, skaitosi lengvai. Minusai: menkas įtikinamumas, knyga ilgoka (bet be gelmių), struktūra (bent jau man) nelabai priimtina, meninis lygis – vidutinis. Tad šeši balai (patenkinamai).
Palengva skaitytojas priartėja prie dabartinių laikų, kai romano veiksmas kur kas įtikinamesnis. Tačiau klausimų vis kyla: kodėl vokiečių kareivis, turintis senelę prancūzę ir puikiai kalbantis prancūziškai, po karo pasirenka gyvenimui Angliją? Gal todėl, kad romano autorė – anglė? Autorę tikrai verta gerbti už drąsą: anglei aprašyti vokiečių ir prancūzų santykius karo ir pokario metu tikrai nebuvo lengva.
Romanas iš esmės be pabaigos, ir tai jį gelbsti, nes situacija pabaigoje lengvai galėjo būti išspręsta pagal „muilo operos“ kanonus. O gal autorė pasiliko galimybę parašyti tęsinį?
Reziumuoju: vienas iš tų atvejų, kai knygą labai sunku įvertinti. Pliusai: siužetas įdomus, sukeliantis emocijas, stilius – neblogas, skaitosi lengvai. Minusai: menkas įtikinamumas, knyga ilgoka (bet be gelmių), struktūra (bent jau man) nelabai priimtina, meninis lygis – vidutinis. Tad šeši balai (patenkinamai).
November 24, 2024
Viena geriausiu man is 2024 skaitytu - tokia grazi, liudna vienu metu. Neiseina aprasyti taip kaip noretusi,kadangi nesinori sugadinti skaitymo malonumo tiema kas dar tik skaitys. Bet mane sujaudino iki sielos gelmiu.
June 9, 2023
The story I experienced was a beautiful tale of love set against the backdrop of war. Sebastian and Elise's journey of falling in love was captivating and unique. Despite the challenging circumstances they faced, their love blossomed and endured, defying the odds.
Their initial meeting in a library sparked a connection that grew into a deep and meaningful friendship. As they got to know each other, their bond strengthened, and they supported each other through the difficulties of war. What stood out was their selflessness and willingness to put others before themselves, even when they were on opposite sides.
However, the story took a heartbreaking turn after the war ended. A tragic event caused Sebastian and Elise to lose touch, leaving them both in a state of uncertainty. The uncertainty of their fate and whether they would ever be reunited added a layer of sadness to their love story.
Despite the ending not meeting my personal expectations, I still appreciated the beauty of their love story. It was a testament to the resilience of love, even in the face of adversity. The depth of their connection and their ability to find solace and affection in each other during such turbulent times left a lasting impression.
In conclusion, while the ending of the story left me with a sense of disappointment, I cannot overlook the impact of Sebastian and Elise's love story. It served as a poignant reminder of the power of love and the complexities of relationships. Their story of love, friendship, and sacrifice will stay with me, even with the mixed emotions brought about by the ending.
Their initial meeting in a library sparked a connection that grew into a deep and meaningful friendship. As they got to know each other, their bond strengthened, and they supported each other through the difficulties of war. What stood out was their selflessness and willingness to put others before themselves, even when they were on opposite sides.
However, the story took a heartbreaking turn after the war ended. A tragic event caused Sebastian and Elise to lose touch, leaving them both in a state of uncertainty. The uncertainty of their fate and whether they would ever be reunited added a layer of sadness to their love story.
Despite the ending not meeting my personal expectations, I still appreciated the beauty of their love story. It was a testament to the resilience of love, even in the face of adversity. The depth of their connection and their ability to find solace and affection in each other during such turbulent times left a lasting impression.
In conclusion, while the ending of the story left me with a sense of disappointment, I cannot overlook the impact of Sebastian and Elise's love story. It served as a poignant reminder of the power of love and the complexities of relationships. Their story of love, friendship, and sacrifice will stay with me, even with the mixed emotions brought about by the ending.
December 29, 2024
Comienza en Bretaña, en 1963, cuando Joséphine Chevalier es una joven inquieta de 18 años que descubre un secreto que su madre le ha escondido durante toda su vida.
Decide poner tierra de por medio viajando a París, donde le revelarán una historia que lo cambiará todo.
En el año 1944, en París, Élise Chevalier pasea por las calles con temor, ocultando su rabia. La ciudad de la luz ha perdido su brillo ante la ocupación alemana.
El destino hará que se cruce en su camino Sebastián Kleinhaus, un traductor alemán resignado a servir al Tercer Reich, quien debe reprimir su impotencia frente a sus iguales.
Entre estas dos líneas temporales he vivido estos últimos tres días una trama tan intensa como inolvidable.
Las últimas horas en París me ha llevado a recorrer sus calles con temor pero también con esperanza.
Ruth Druart nos regala una historia de amor bellísima cuyos protagonistas narran en primera persona su romance. He asistido a sus encuentros con el pudor de quien observa sin ser vista, sintiendo su contradicción, sus inquietudes y sus miedos.
Es admirable el excelente trabajo de documentación perfectamente introducido y adaptado a la trama.
Me ha impactado su magnetismo, no hay un sólo capítulo en el que haya perdido el interés, la he leído con tantas ansias de saber que me turbaban.
Cuando acabo una lectura y me resisto a desprenderme de ella, rememorando cada instante y conversación, reteniendo los detalles y creando nuevos escenarios a mi conveniencia, es que estoy ante una lectura especial.
No había leído a la autora y le he pedido a sus majestades que me traigan "Mientras París dormía".
Decide poner tierra de por medio viajando a París, donde le revelarán una historia que lo cambiará todo.
En el año 1944, en París, Élise Chevalier pasea por las calles con temor, ocultando su rabia. La ciudad de la luz ha perdido su brillo ante la ocupación alemana.
El destino hará que se cruce en su camino Sebastián Kleinhaus, un traductor alemán resignado a servir al Tercer Reich, quien debe reprimir su impotencia frente a sus iguales.
Entre estas dos líneas temporales he vivido estos últimos tres días una trama tan intensa como inolvidable.
Las últimas horas en París me ha llevado a recorrer sus calles con temor pero también con esperanza.
Ruth Druart nos regala una historia de amor bellísima cuyos protagonistas narran en primera persona su romance. He asistido a sus encuentros con el pudor de quien observa sin ser vista, sintiendo su contradicción, sus inquietudes y sus miedos.
Es admirable el excelente trabajo de documentación perfectamente introducido y adaptado a la trama.
Me ha impactado su magnetismo, no hay un sólo capítulo en el que haya perdido el interés, la he leído con tantas ansias de saber que me turbaban.
Cuando acabo una lectura y me resisto a desprenderme de ella, rememorando cada instante y conversación, reteniendo los detalles y creando nuevos escenarios a mi conveniencia, es que estoy ante una lectura especial.
No había leído a la autora y le he pedido a sus majestades que me traigan "Mientras París dormía".
July 8, 2022
I LOVE THIS BOOK!
I absolutely adored Ruth’s first book which I read last year and this one is even better. I absolutely love the main character Elise and I loved her love Sebastian. This book is written in a few different perspectives but with short and easy chapters which makes this book easy to fly through.
It’s definitely an emotional read and I’m so glad I’ve been able to immerse myself into the lives of these fantastic characters. Well written, highly emotional about a time that for many of us is hard to imagine. Ruth has definitely become an auto-buy reader for me.
I absolutely adored Ruth’s first book which I read last year and this one is even better. I absolutely love the main character Elise and I loved her love Sebastian. This book is written in a few different perspectives but with short and easy chapters which makes this book easy to fly through.
It’s definitely an emotional read and I’m so glad I’ve been able to immerse myself into the lives of these fantastic characters. Well written, highly emotional about a time that for many of us is hard to imagine. Ruth has definitely become an auto-buy reader for me.
July 27, 2022
3,5/4 ⭐️
NL below
When I saw Ruth Druart had written a new book, I immediately ordered it. It was good, but didn't bring me to tears the way 'While Paris Slept' did. (Perhaps that subject touched me more personal?)
Like her first book, this book is about impossible choices as well. The outcome will always be heartbreaking.
The writing was simple, which made the book a quick read. I would have liked a little more adornment, more description.
The characters all get a chance to share their views, as perspectives change. They are all easy to relate too.
The story was a good one and no doubt true for many people during those days. Harsh scenes are present, though the whole story could have done with some more depth.
All in all a good book, but not as good as its predecessor .
‐-----------------------------------
Toen ik zag dat Ruth Druart een nieuw boek geschreven had, heb ik het meteen besteld. Het was goed, maar loet me niet zo janken als 'Terwijl Parijs Sliep'. (Misschien raakte dat onderwerp me meer persoonlijk?)
Net zoals haar eerste boek, gaat dit boek ook over onmogelijke keuzes. De uitkomst zal hoe dan ook hartverscheurend zijn.
De schrijfstijl is eenvoudig, het boek las snel weg. Het had van mij wel iets meer opschmuck/beschrijvingen mogen hebben.
De karakters krijgen allemaal een kans om hun zienswijze te tonen, wanneer de perspectieven veranderen. Ze zijn allemaal gemakkelijk om je in in te leven.
Het verhaal was goed en waarschijnlijk was het voor veel mensen in die tijd de harde waarheid.
Gruwelijke scenes komen er in voor, hoewel het geheel wel meer diepte had kunnen gebruiken.
Al met al een goed boek, maar minder dan zijn voorganger.
NL below
When I saw Ruth Druart had written a new book, I immediately ordered it. It was good, but didn't bring me to tears the way 'While Paris Slept' did. (Perhaps that subject touched me more personal?)
Like her first book, this book is about impossible choices as well. The outcome will always be heartbreaking.
The writing was simple, which made the book a quick read. I would have liked a little more adornment, more description.
The characters all get a chance to share their views, as perspectives change. They are all easy to relate too.
The story was a good one and no doubt true for many people during those days. Harsh scenes are present, though the whole story could have done with some more depth.
All in all a good book, but not as good as its predecessor .
‐-----------------------------------
Toen ik zag dat Ruth Druart een nieuw boek geschreven had, heb ik het meteen besteld. Het was goed, maar loet me niet zo janken als 'Terwijl Parijs Sliep'. (Misschien raakte dat onderwerp me meer persoonlijk?)
Net zoals haar eerste boek, gaat dit boek ook over onmogelijke keuzes. De uitkomst zal hoe dan ook hartverscheurend zijn.
De schrijfstijl is eenvoudig, het boek las snel weg. Het had van mij wel iets meer opschmuck/beschrijvingen mogen hebben.
De karakters krijgen allemaal een kans om hun zienswijze te tonen, wanneer de perspectieven veranderen. Ze zijn allemaal gemakkelijk om je in in te leven.
Het verhaal was goed en waarschijnlijk was het voor veel mensen in die tijd de harde waarheid.
Gruwelijke scenes komen er in voor, hoewel het geheel wel meer diepte had kunnen gebruiken.
Al met al een goed boek, maar minder dan zijn voorganger.
September 29, 2025
2,5 estrellas
Me temo que voy a ser una opinión impopular, pedazo puntuación tiene este libro aquí en GR.
Me ha gustado la forma de escribir de la autora, con los sentimientos a flor de piel, y muy interesante el tema que trata, el de las distintas circunstancias de las mujeres que colaboraron con los nazis en el París ocupado y cómo fueron juzgadas indiscriminadamente, pero no he sido capaz de empatizar con los personajes.
La protagonista del presente ya sé que es joven, pero se me ha hecho insufrible, egoísta y mimada, y la del pasado, su madre, no he acabado de encontrarle justificación a su comportamiento. Y toda la tragedia que ocurre a su alrededor queda como desdibujada en sus sentimientos personales...
En fin, existen novelas mucho mejores que trabajan este tema, no la recomiendo especialmente.
Me temo que voy a ser una opinión impopular, pedazo puntuación tiene este libro aquí en GR.
Me ha gustado la forma de escribir de la autora, con los sentimientos a flor de piel, y muy interesante el tema que trata, el de las distintas circunstancias de las mujeres que colaboraron con los nazis en el París ocupado y cómo fueron juzgadas indiscriminadamente, pero no he sido capaz de empatizar con los personajes.
La protagonista del presente ya sé que es joven, pero se me ha hecho insufrible, egoísta y mimada, y la del pasado, su madre, no he acabado de encontrarle justificación a su comportamiento. Y toda la tragedia que ocurre a su alrededor queda como desdibujada en sus sentimientos personales...
En fin, existen novelas mucho mejores que trabajan este tema, no la recomiendo especialmente.
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