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The Paris Agent
1970—In the aftermath of his war-ravaged past, Noah Ainsworth is still haunted by memories of his time as a fearless British operative in France. But a critical head injury left Noah with frustrating memory gaps and a burning question that plagues him—who was the agent who saved his life during that tragic final mission?
Determined to find answers, Noah's daughter Charlotte embarks on a quest from their cozy home in Liverpool, leading her to the incredible lives of two ordinary women—Chloe and Fleur—who transformed into fearless spies on foreign soil. But as Charlotte unravels the heroic exploits of these women and their connection to Noah, she inadvertently stumbles upon evidence of a double agent lurking disturbingly close to home, drawing her into a treacherous web of secrets and unearthing a shocking story from those final days of the war.
Once again, Kelly Rimmer takes readers on a gripping journey, one that threads the lives of two remarkable women into the fabric of history, unveiling the power of courage, family and the indelible mark left by the darkest era of human conflict.
Determined to find answers, Noah's daughter Charlotte embarks on a quest from their cozy home in Liverpool, leading her to the incredible lives of two ordinary women—Chloe and Fleur—who transformed into fearless spies on foreign soil. But as Charlotte unravels the heroic exploits of these women and their connection to Noah, she inadvertently stumbles upon evidence of a double agent lurking disturbingly close to home, drawing her into a treacherous web of secrets and unearthing a shocking story from those final days of the war.
Once again, Kelly Rimmer takes readers on a gripping journey, one that threads the lives of two remarkable women into the fabric of history, unveiling the power of courage, family and the indelible mark left by the darkest era of human conflict.
368 pages, Paperback
First published July 11, 2023
1155 people are currently reading
45104 people want to read
About the author
Kelly Rimmer
19 books8,605 followersKelly Rimmer is the author of historical and contemporary fiction, including The Warsaw Orphan, The Things We Cannot Say and The Secret Daughter, with 3 million books sold. Her books have been translated into dozens of languages and have appeared on bestseller lists around the world, including The New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today.
Since 2022, Kelly has owned and operated Collins Booksellers Orange, the last remaining bookstore in the small regional city she calls home. Her next novel, The Midnight Estate, will be released in Australia, New Zealand and the UK in July 2025.
Since 2022, Kelly has owned and operated Collins Booksellers Orange, the last remaining bookstore in the small regional city she calls home. Her next novel, The Midnight Estate, will be released in Australia, New Zealand and the UK in July 2025.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,682 reviews
July 14, 2023
When an important story is retold to readers in future generations in a fictional manner, it may be easy to fall into the comfortability that the story is in fact, fiction. Kelly Rimmer is an author I was yet to read, so with my thanks to @betterreadingau I was grateful to rectify.
This is a story of two strong women who entered an environment that would be terrifying to most, with limited training, in a world of handwritten notes, treacherous conditions and sabotage. The Special Operations unit (SOE) were volunteers of WWII, this is the story of spies Chloe and Fleur. Told in dual timelines, we see the carnage of war, the result of families torn apart with the unknown, and the effect war has on those who survived the times. The guilt of survival, the holding of secrets, and the loss of everyone involved – whether they were alive in war times, or not.
Charlotte is the daughter of the now aging British Noah, another SOE operative, who in 1970 helps her father try to thank the agent responsible for saving his life. This leads us to a serious story interspersed with love and hope to find the truth behind the history of these wonderful women. We learn of two young people falling into a forbidden love and a fractured mother daughter relationship, and of a widow leaving her toddler son behind, completely unsure of his fate while risking her life for this cause. We see a man attempting to rebuild a life in the ‘after’ war with a wife who could never seem to try and understand his grief.
The mystery in 1970 England slowly teases out the young women’s stories and their bravery and courage. Torture was commonplace, but at no stage did the duo give up on their mission or waver in their commitment. The author writes with such solidarity and truth that the reader can sense the atrocities, believe them and feel they are in the room with these wonderful women, all the while maintaining a hopeful heart. At the cusp of their lives and only in their third decade, this provides another layer to the heartbreak. I am not sure how an author can create with great potency such delicate, wise, gentle and otherwise powerful writing, but Ms Rimmer has a flair for this.
For readers like myself who may not usually embrace historical fiction, this is a special book which should not be overlooked. Violette Szabo and Diana Rowder were real women, losing their lives at 23 and 29 respectively. What a story, Kelly Rimmer, and what an achievement in teaching me (and so many others) this important part of history. Working in the library industry, I can understand the massive undertaking in the element of research performed, a courageous task with an outstanding book to show for it.
This is a story of two strong women who entered an environment that would be terrifying to most, with limited training, in a world of handwritten notes, treacherous conditions and sabotage. The Special Operations unit (SOE) were volunteers of WWII, this is the story of spies Chloe and Fleur. Told in dual timelines, we see the carnage of war, the result of families torn apart with the unknown, and the effect war has on those who survived the times. The guilt of survival, the holding of secrets, and the loss of everyone involved – whether they were alive in war times, or not.
Charlotte is the daughter of the now aging British Noah, another SOE operative, who in 1970 helps her father try to thank the agent responsible for saving his life. This leads us to a serious story interspersed with love and hope to find the truth behind the history of these wonderful women. We learn of two young people falling into a forbidden love and a fractured mother daughter relationship, and of a widow leaving her toddler son behind, completely unsure of his fate while risking her life for this cause. We see a man attempting to rebuild a life in the ‘after’ war with a wife who could never seem to try and understand his grief.
The mystery in 1970 England slowly teases out the young women’s stories and their bravery and courage. Torture was commonplace, but at no stage did the duo give up on their mission or waver in their commitment. The author writes with such solidarity and truth that the reader can sense the atrocities, believe them and feel they are in the room with these wonderful women, all the while maintaining a hopeful heart. At the cusp of their lives and only in their third decade, this provides another layer to the heartbreak. I am not sure how an author can create with great potency such delicate, wise, gentle and otherwise powerful writing, but Ms Rimmer has a flair for this.
For readers like myself who may not usually embrace historical fiction, this is a special book which should not be overlooked. Violette Szabo and Diana Rowder were real women, losing their lives at 23 and 29 respectively. What a story, Kelly Rimmer, and what an achievement in teaching me (and so many others) this important part of history. Working in the library industry, I can understand the massive undertaking in the element of research performed, a courageous task with an outstanding book to show for it.
January 14, 2024
2.5 stars.
It makes me sad to give this low rating to one of my favourite authors. But I have to be honest in my ratings otherwise it makes no sense to review books. I had expected this to be a 4-5 star book.
1970: a daughter and her father are researching the Special Operations Executive (SOE), the secret British WWII organization that her father was a part of. Her father is looking for the man who saved his life but he only knows his undercover name. The novel moves between 1970 and WWII.
I enjoyed learning about this important time in history. The brave men and women who were part of the SOE were an immense help in relaying important information back home as well as rounding up locals to join the Resistance, planning and completing acts of sabotage and more.
Unfortunately I didn’t connect with any of the characters which is very surprising for me with this author. I usually connect immediately and find myself more invested in the characters lives than anything else. Several times, I found myself confused between characters which likely had to do with undercover names and none of the characters feeling unique or memorable.
The pace was very long and drawn out yet the time jumps seemed to cut out a lot of back story. The storyline didn’t have enough intrigue to have me invested in any part of it. There were also a few unrealistic elements that this author never usually includes which had me feeling less than eager to pick this up.
While this story included a lot of loss and hardship, it lacked the grit and heavy impact that this author usually pulls me in with. It failed to touch my heart or impact me on an emotional level. Romance was a strong theme that also turned me off. I don’t mind subplots of romance but having it as a main focus made the book take on a lighter tone and is not something I enjoy.
This novel reminded me of the issues I have with some Pam Jenoff historical fiction novels. Some of them are gritty and impactful, while others are too cutesy and romance focused which loses any sort of appeal or interest for me.
Overall, this was a miss for me but I continue to be a fan of this author and will read whatever she comes out with next. I highly recommend her historical fiction novels, The Things We Cannot Change, The Warsaw Orphan and The German Wife. Also highly recommend her contemporary fiction Before I Let You Go which is one of my All Time Favourite books.
Thank you to the publisher for my review copy!
It makes me sad to give this low rating to one of my favourite authors. But I have to be honest in my ratings otherwise it makes no sense to review books. I had expected this to be a 4-5 star book.
1970: a daughter and her father are researching the Special Operations Executive (SOE), the secret British WWII organization that her father was a part of. Her father is looking for the man who saved his life but he only knows his undercover name. The novel moves between 1970 and WWII.
I enjoyed learning about this important time in history. The brave men and women who were part of the SOE were an immense help in relaying important information back home as well as rounding up locals to join the Resistance, planning and completing acts of sabotage and more.
Unfortunately I didn’t connect with any of the characters which is very surprising for me with this author. I usually connect immediately and find myself more invested in the characters lives than anything else. Several times, I found myself confused between characters which likely had to do with undercover names and none of the characters feeling unique or memorable.
The pace was very long and drawn out yet the time jumps seemed to cut out a lot of back story. The storyline didn’t have enough intrigue to have me invested in any part of it. There were also a few unrealistic elements that this author never usually includes which had me feeling less than eager to pick this up.
While this story included a lot of loss and hardship, it lacked the grit and heavy impact that this author usually pulls me in with. It failed to touch my heart or impact me on an emotional level. Romance was a strong theme that also turned me off. I don’t mind subplots of romance but having it as a main focus made the book take on a lighter tone and is not something I enjoy.
This novel reminded me of the issues I have with some Pam Jenoff historical fiction novels. Some of them are gritty and impactful, while others are too cutesy and romance focused which loses any sort of appeal or interest for me.
Overall, this was a miss for me but I continue to be a fan of this author and will read whatever she comes out with next. I highly recommend her historical fiction novels, The Things We Cannot Change, The Warsaw Orphan and The German Wife. Also highly recommend her contemporary fiction Before I Let You Go which is one of my All Time Favourite books.
Thank you to the publisher for my review copy!
July 23, 2023
I have been a big fan of Kelly Rimmer for a long time now. I get so excited every time that I see that she has written a new book because I know that I am in for a unique and exciting experience. The Paris Agent was no exception. It was told in a duel timeline. The female protagonists, Chloe and Fleur (code names for SOE operatives Josie and Eloise) conveyed the parts of the book that occurred during the years of World War II through their POVs. Charlotte Ainsworth, daughter of Noah Ainsworth, a SOE agent that was stationed in France during WWII, was the third female protagonist. She conveyed the events that unfolded in the 1970’s from her POV. The Paris Agent was engaging right from the start and very captivating as well. It was fast paced and so well researched.
In her latest book, The Paris Agent, Kelly Rimmer focused on portraying the roles of female SOE operatives during World War II. These brave and courageous women were originally recruited as couriers and wireless operators, vital roles during World War II. Eventually, the SOE recognized how intelligent, willing and capable these women were. The SOE soon began to utilize these brave young women in acts of sabotage and espionage. They became skilled in the use of explosives and weapons. These brave women became a vital part of winning World War II for the Allied forces.
In the midst of these brave men and women SOE operatives, a double agent lurked. Those in the SOE suspected that the double agent was someone in their upper echelons but no one knew for sure who it was. All that they knew was that their agents were disappearing throughout France. That double agent was also responsible for the fate of two of the SOE’s best female agents, Chloe and Fleur (code names for Josie and Eloise).
Charlotte Ainsworth had recently lost her mother and she sorely missed her every day as did her father. After Charlotte’s mother’s death, her father confessed what his role had been in World War II to Charlotte. She had always believed that her father had been a mechanic in the Army. Unbeknownst to Charlotte, Noah Ainsworth had been a SOE operative in World War II. Noah had been hurt during his last field operation. He had with-stained a head injury that ended up playing havoc with his memories of that day. Certain details of that day were still fuzzy and Noah still could not recall all them. Noah had never been able to remember exactly what took place on that day. All he remembered was that someone called Remy had brought Noah to a hospital and had therefore saved his life. Noah was not even sure if Remy was his real name or a code name. He wanted desperately to find this man, Remy, so he could personally thank him for saving his life by getting him to the hospital. Eventually, Noah tracked Remy down with Charlotte’s help.
As Charlotte and Noah slowly pieced together the missing parts of Noah’s life as a SOE operative and what happened during that last operation, Charlotte also learned about Chloe’s and Fleur’s brave acts. Charlotte and Noah had also sought out and received help from a historian that taught and worked at the University of Manchester and one of his former students. Together they were able to connect the events that occurred during the war with the present. It was revealed that the suspected double agent was ultimately responsible for all the tragedies, deaths and disappearances that unfolded during the last year of the war. Who had betrayed the SOE and placed its operatives in peril? Was the identity of the traitor ever discovered? Was justice served? Did Noah finally get the closure he so desperately needed and for so long?
The Paris Agent by Kelly Rimmer was a beautifully written historical fiction novel. The characters in the book were inspired from real people. Kelly Rimmer brilliantly explained in her author’s note what was real and what she created. Her research was impeccable. I really enjoyed the ending and found it to be completely satisfying. Some of the scenes that described the torture and atrocities that the Nazis inflicted upon the SOE agents was hard to read. I believe that as hard as it was to read, it was vital that their senseless and brutal actions be a reminder of what happened so that it can never be repeated ever again. I am glad that I learned about the roles of the female SOE operatives and their brave accomplishments during World War II. These women should be honored and recognized for all their courage, sacrifice, dedication and achievements. The Paris Agent explored the themes of family, love, hope, resilience, secrets, traitorous behavior, heartbreak, war and espionage. I highly recommend The Paris Agent by Kelly Rimmer if you enjoy reading good historical fiction books.
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing for allowing me to read The Paris Agent by Kelly Rimmer through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
In her latest book, The Paris Agent, Kelly Rimmer focused on portraying the roles of female SOE operatives during World War II. These brave and courageous women were originally recruited as couriers and wireless operators, vital roles during World War II. Eventually, the SOE recognized how intelligent, willing and capable these women were. The SOE soon began to utilize these brave young women in acts of sabotage and espionage. They became skilled in the use of explosives and weapons. These brave women became a vital part of winning World War II for the Allied forces.
In the midst of these brave men and women SOE operatives, a double agent lurked. Those in the SOE suspected that the double agent was someone in their upper echelons but no one knew for sure who it was. All that they knew was that their agents were disappearing throughout France. That double agent was also responsible for the fate of two of the SOE’s best female agents, Chloe and Fleur (code names for Josie and Eloise).
Charlotte Ainsworth had recently lost her mother and she sorely missed her every day as did her father. After Charlotte’s mother’s death, her father confessed what his role had been in World War II to Charlotte. She had always believed that her father had been a mechanic in the Army. Unbeknownst to Charlotte, Noah Ainsworth had been a SOE operative in World War II. Noah had been hurt during his last field operation. He had with-stained a head injury that ended up playing havoc with his memories of that day. Certain details of that day were still fuzzy and Noah still could not recall all them. Noah had never been able to remember exactly what took place on that day. All he remembered was that someone called Remy had brought Noah to a hospital and had therefore saved his life. Noah was not even sure if Remy was his real name or a code name. He wanted desperately to find this man, Remy, so he could personally thank him for saving his life by getting him to the hospital. Eventually, Noah tracked Remy down with Charlotte’s help.
As Charlotte and Noah slowly pieced together the missing parts of Noah’s life as a SOE operative and what happened during that last operation, Charlotte also learned about Chloe’s and Fleur’s brave acts. Charlotte and Noah had also sought out and received help from a historian that taught and worked at the University of Manchester and one of his former students. Together they were able to connect the events that occurred during the war with the present. It was revealed that the suspected double agent was ultimately responsible for all the tragedies, deaths and disappearances that unfolded during the last year of the war. Who had betrayed the SOE and placed its operatives in peril? Was the identity of the traitor ever discovered? Was justice served? Did Noah finally get the closure he so desperately needed and for so long?
The Paris Agent by Kelly Rimmer was a beautifully written historical fiction novel. The characters in the book were inspired from real people. Kelly Rimmer brilliantly explained in her author’s note what was real and what she created. Her research was impeccable. I really enjoyed the ending and found it to be completely satisfying. Some of the scenes that described the torture and atrocities that the Nazis inflicted upon the SOE agents was hard to read. I believe that as hard as it was to read, it was vital that their senseless and brutal actions be a reminder of what happened so that it can never be repeated ever again. I am glad that I learned about the roles of the female SOE operatives and their brave accomplishments during World War II. These women should be honored and recognized for all their courage, sacrifice, dedication and achievements. The Paris Agent explored the themes of family, love, hope, resilience, secrets, traitorous behavior, heartbreak, war and espionage. I highly recommend The Paris Agent by Kelly Rimmer if you enjoy reading good historical fiction books.
Thank you to Harlequin Trade Publishing for allowing me to read The Paris Agent by Kelly Rimmer through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 29, 2023
Charlotte Ainsworth has no idea her father wasn't a mechanic during the Second World War, he was in fact a British agent working in France and a brave one. In the summer of 1970, Charlotte is stunned when her dad Noah tells her the truth, she really can’t imagine her father being SOE and she wondered if her mum knew. Noah was wounded towards the end of the war, he fractured his skull, so he can’t remember somethings and others are jumbled up in his mind. Noah wants to thank the agent that saved his life and he needs closure.
Charlotte wants to help her father, she finds out the name of a professor and a military historian who have both been looking into the English Secret Operations Executives service in France, unfortunately some of the personal files have been destroyed and others are marked as classified.
Charlotte discovers her father knew two women operatives while in France, Chloe and Fleur and of course these are not their real names. Despite national security being tight and agents being thoroughly screened by the team at Baker Street, Charlotte uncovers someone might have been working as a double agent, a lot of the SOE’s were arrested towards the end of the war, around the time her father was wounded and was it because of the traitor?
The narrative has a dual timeline alternating from 1944 to the 1970’s and it’s told from the points of view of Chloe and Fleur while they were serving in in France and on leave in England.
At first women agents where used as couriers and wireless operators in the field, but as the war went on and while planning for D-Day invasion they needed them to do more and they did. The women had to speak fluent French, blend in with the population and these agents worked alongside their male peers, carrying out acts of espionage, sabotage, reconnaissance, they knew how to fire Bren light machine gun and use explosives.
I received a paperback copy of The Paris Agent by Kelly Rimmer from Hachette Australia in exchange for an honest review, once again Ms. Rimmer has blown me away with her latest impeccably researched and engrossing book, she uses real details and I learnt new and interesting facts about the Second World War. A story about duty, revenge, secrets, betrayal, lies, loss, bravery, sacrifice and love. My favorite characters were Noah, Chloe, Fleur, Charlotte, Theo, Ms. Elwood and Wrigley the dog. I became a big fan of Kelly Rimmer’s when I read her first novel, The Things We Cannot Say, a superbly composed historical fiction story and five stars from me.
Charlotte wants to help her father, she finds out the name of a professor and a military historian who have both been looking into the English Secret Operations Executives service in France, unfortunately some of the personal files have been destroyed and others are marked as classified.
Charlotte discovers her father knew two women operatives while in France, Chloe and Fleur and of course these are not their real names. Despite national security being tight and agents being thoroughly screened by the team at Baker Street, Charlotte uncovers someone might have been working as a double agent, a lot of the SOE’s were arrested towards the end of the war, around the time her father was wounded and was it because of the traitor?
The narrative has a dual timeline alternating from 1944 to the 1970’s and it’s told from the points of view of Chloe and Fleur while they were serving in in France and on leave in England.
At first women agents where used as couriers and wireless operators in the field, but as the war went on and while planning for D-Day invasion they needed them to do more and they did. The women had to speak fluent French, blend in with the population and these agents worked alongside their male peers, carrying out acts of espionage, sabotage, reconnaissance, they knew how to fire Bren light machine gun and use explosives.
I received a paperback copy of The Paris Agent by Kelly Rimmer from Hachette Australia in exchange for an honest review, once again Ms. Rimmer has blown me away with her latest impeccably researched and engrossing book, she uses real details and I learnt new and interesting facts about the Second World War. A story about duty, revenge, secrets, betrayal, lies, loss, bravery, sacrifice and love. My favorite characters were Noah, Chloe, Fleur, Charlotte, Theo, Ms. Elwood and Wrigley the dog. I became a big fan of Kelly Rimmer’s when I read her first novel, The Things We Cannot Say, a superbly composed historical fiction story and five stars from me.
June 27, 2023
An absolutely beautiful, heartfelt dedication Ms Kelly Rimmer.
Charlotte and Noah Ainsworth, London 1970, twenty five years after the ending of the war, and only a few short months since the death of Charlotte's mother and Noah's wife, were struggling with the grief of her loss. When Noah, ex British SOE agent, told Charlotte he was going to search for Remy, the agent who had saved his life when their mission was compromised, by taking him to the hospital, he told her he knew nothing more about Remy, but badly wanted to thank him for what he did. So began the search, meeting with Professor Harry Read and his young researcher, Theo, heading down the dark and torturous tunnel into the past...
Fleur and Chloe were two young women who'd been recruited into the SOE and with only three months of intensive training, were parachuted into France. The risks they, and all other operatives, took were phenomenal. But it wasn't long before they were suspicious of a double agent in their midst. Too many were being arrested, with the Germans knowing too much for it to be coincidence. Who was betraying their country, and their friends?
The Paris Agent by Aussie author Kelly Rimmer is based on the true story of agents Violette Szabo and Diana Rowden, along with many others and their various circumstances. The author's note at the end explains Ms Rimmer's research and reasons for her book. Heartbreaking, courageous, emotional and poignant, Ms Rimmer never lets her readers down. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Hachette AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Charlotte and Noah Ainsworth, London 1970, twenty five years after the ending of the war, and only a few short months since the death of Charlotte's mother and Noah's wife, were struggling with the grief of her loss. When Noah, ex British SOE agent, told Charlotte he was going to search for Remy, the agent who had saved his life when their mission was compromised, by taking him to the hospital, he told her he knew nothing more about Remy, but badly wanted to thank him for what he did. So began the search, meeting with Professor Harry Read and his young researcher, Theo, heading down the dark and torturous tunnel into the past...
Fleur and Chloe were two young women who'd been recruited into the SOE and with only three months of intensive training, were parachuted into France. The risks they, and all other operatives, took were phenomenal. But it wasn't long before they were suspicious of a double agent in their midst. Too many were being arrested, with the Germans knowing too much for it to be coincidence. Who was betraying their country, and their friends?
The Paris Agent by Aussie author Kelly Rimmer is based on the true story of agents Violette Szabo and Diana Rowden, along with many others and their various circumstances. The author's note at the end explains Ms Rimmer's research and reasons for her book. Heartbreaking, courageous, emotional and poignant, Ms Rimmer never lets her readers down. Highly recommended.
With thanks to Hachette AU for my ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
July 30, 2023
Rounded up from 3.5. My biggest “issue” with this book is that I could not keep track of the female characters. Between their code names, their real names, the differences in time for each chapter… it all got confusing for me. Both Eloise and Josie had the exact same “voice” on the book and honestly I had a hard time remembering who was who, what their back stories were, and what was going on for each of them.
July 20, 2023
As usual, Kelly Rimmer produces a powerful story that reinforces my love for historical fiction books. As usual, there is a large amount of research and real people behind the characters presented. I listened to this book and was not disappointed.
June 14, 2023
Rimmer makes sure her readers walk a mile in someone else’s shoes, toeing the line and understanding the empathy and compassion needed to fill them. What I love about this style of writing is that Rimmer writes about what the world needs … ppssttt. Can you hear that? Cue ‘What The World Needs Now’ by Dionne Warwick…
You’re humming, aren’t you?! I heard you. You said ‘love sweet love.’
O.k. the world needs love AND understanding.
Rimmer dishes it up.
This truly transformative read begins with an innocent question at a picnic which initiates a search for answers, resulting in bringing a long-forgotten, twenty-five-year-old mystery to light. In short, it’s about two female SOE operatives Josie (aka Chloe) and Eloise (aka Fleur) and and the double agent, Noah (aka Marcel), who controls their fate. You’ll be spellbound at how their lives intersect in occupied France.
Do not kid yourself. Kleenex needed. War is not pretty nor fair.
Two things: (1) post-it note with aliases so that you don’t get bogged down in the beginning and (2) clear your schedule because Rimmer is the master of ‘book induced reverie’ - she has the knack of sweeping her readers into her book world where they let the world pass by while they are exploring a bygone era. Time will cease to exist.
Rimmer has written this impeccably researched novel with passion and verve. It’s full of details and rich descriptions and almost - almost - kicked The Things We Cannot Say out of first place for my favourite Rimmer book.
If you love your historical fiction with a little side order of mystery, this is one you’ll want to read.
I was gifted this copy by Harlequin Trade Publishing, Graydon House and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
You’re humming, aren’t you?! I heard you. You said ‘love sweet love.’
O.k. the world needs love AND understanding.
Rimmer dishes it up.
This truly transformative read begins with an innocent question at a picnic which initiates a search for answers, resulting in bringing a long-forgotten, twenty-five-year-old mystery to light. In short, it’s about two female SOE operatives Josie (aka Chloe) and Eloise (aka Fleur) and and the double agent, Noah (aka Marcel), who controls their fate. You’ll be spellbound at how their lives intersect in occupied France.
Do not kid yourself. Kleenex needed. War is not pretty nor fair.
Two things: (1) post-it note with aliases so that you don’t get bogged down in the beginning and (2) clear your schedule because Rimmer is the master of ‘book induced reverie’ - she has the knack of sweeping her readers into her book world where they let the world pass by while they are exploring a bygone era. Time will cease to exist.
Rimmer has written this impeccably researched novel with passion and verve. It’s full of details and rich descriptions and almost - almost - kicked The Things We Cannot Say out of first place for my favourite Rimmer book.
If you love your historical fiction with a little side order of mystery, this is one you’ll want to read.
I was gifted this copy by Harlequin Trade Publishing, Graydon House and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
June 16, 2023
Check out all my reviews at: https://www.avonnalovesgenres.com
THE PARIS AGENT by Kelly Rimmer is a moving historical fiction novel written with dual intertwining timelines; one set during WWII in France following two female SOE operatives and the other set in 1970 England with a survivor trying to uncover the mystery surrounding their betrayals and deaths. This is a story that pulled me in emotionally and made it impossible to stop reading. Make sure you have the tissues handy for the ending.
This story is extensively researched and believable. The author makes you feel the emotional suspense and distress of the SOE operatives while they are in France. That these young women volunteered and were sent into occupied territory during WWII with only months of training and no guarantee they would return alive demonstrates their strength, bravery, and belief in freedom. The second story line follows a father and daughter duo looking for answers twenty-five years after WWII to fill in questions the father still has after a brain injury while with the SOE in France, but many of the documents are still classified. The two storylines come together is an emotional climax that is gut-wrenching and uncomfortable.
I highly recommend this historical fiction novel featuring strong women caught up in the horrors of war and the long-lasting emotional ripples that flow through their families.
THE PARIS AGENT by Kelly Rimmer is a moving historical fiction novel written with dual intertwining timelines; one set during WWII in France following two female SOE operatives and the other set in 1970 England with a survivor trying to uncover the mystery surrounding their betrayals and deaths. This is a story that pulled me in emotionally and made it impossible to stop reading. Make sure you have the tissues handy for the ending.
This story is extensively researched and believable. The author makes you feel the emotional suspense and distress of the SOE operatives while they are in France. That these young women volunteered and were sent into occupied territory during WWII with only months of training and no guarantee they would return alive demonstrates their strength, bravery, and belief in freedom. The second story line follows a father and daughter duo looking for answers twenty-five years after WWII to fill in questions the father still has after a brain injury while with the SOE in France, but many of the documents are still classified. The two storylines come together is an emotional climax that is gut-wrenching and uncomfortable.
I highly recommend this historical fiction novel featuring strong women caught up in the horrors of war and the long-lasting emotional ripples that flow through their families.
May 14, 2023
This is an entertaining, well-written, WWII historical fiction novel which is written over a dual timeline. It vividly describes the actions of two strong and capable, courageous, female SOE operatives during the war, and the search for answers by the intelligent daughter of an operative in 1970. Its mystery, intrigue, and suspense will keep the reader engaged from beginning until end. There is bravery, suffering and heartbreak, and a satisfying conclusion.
NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing and Ms. Kelly Rimmer kindly provided me with an ARC of this outstanding novel, and this is my honest opinion.
NetGalley, Harlequin Trade Publishing and Ms. Kelly Rimmer kindly provided me with an ARC of this outstanding novel, and this is my honest opinion.
July 6, 2023
This is another moving, emotional and poignant story from the pen of MS Rimmer, and one that was very hard to put down, set amid the turmoil of World War 2, we get to know some of the secret agents who worked for SOE doing all they could to help while putting their lives in danger, we see the strength and courage these woman and men have to make the world a better place, come along and meet them.
It is twenty five years since the war ended and Noah Ainsworth who was a SOE agent has decided that he wants to find the other agent who saved his life all those years ago, this brings back many memories good and bad of the terrible time they all went through, this is not going to be easy as they never really knew their true names. With the help of his daughter Charlotte the journey begins to find some answers.
They meet Professor Read and his research helper Theo who help them learn about Fleur and Chloe two of the female SOE agents and this unravels secrets and innuendo about a double agents and sees Noah open up about his life during this time.
These woman were sent behind enemy lines with very little training but their will to do what they could to help was so strong they fought so hard mostly on their own, the story is based real life agents and Kelly Rimmer has done it so well, a fabulous story my heart ached for them all, there were tears from me, this story is going to stay with me for a long time to come. It is one that I highly recommend, one not to be missed.
My thanks to Hachette AU for my copy to read and review.
It is twenty five years since the war ended and Noah Ainsworth who was a SOE agent has decided that he wants to find the other agent who saved his life all those years ago, this brings back many memories good and bad of the terrible time they all went through, this is not going to be easy as they never really knew their true names. With the help of his daughter Charlotte the journey begins to find some answers.
They meet Professor Read and his research helper Theo who help them learn about Fleur and Chloe two of the female SOE agents and this unravels secrets and innuendo about a double agents and sees Noah open up about his life during this time.
These woman were sent behind enemy lines with very little training but their will to do what they could to help was so strong they fought so hard mostly on their own, the story is based real life agents and Kelly Rimmer has done it so well, a fabulous story my heart ached for them all, there were tears from me, this story is going to stay with me for a long time to come. It is one that I highly recommend, one not to be missed.
My thanks to Hachette AU for my copy to read and review.
July 16, 2023
The Paris Agent by Kelly Rimmer
Historical fiction. Two times frames between 1970 and the end of the Second World War.
In 1970, Charlotte tries to help her father research the man who saved his live at the end of the war. He remembers only a name. Charlotte’s investigation uncovers the stories of two brave women that that sacrificed everything for their country, as well as the fact that her father was actually a secret British agent.
Based on the research of two women, evidence of their work and lives, and sacrifices. Reading the author notes at the end of this fictional story, brought home the bravery of the thousands of men and women that lived through, fought and sacrificed for their families and country. This story is filled with the passion of suspense, danger and loyalty of the times. It saddens me that these stories are lost and I’m grateful to the author for bringing these to life.
It’s of course sad in the end simply because it’s historical and mostly lost to history.
Chloe and Fleur will live on in memory of the bravery.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and the publisher.
Historical fiction. Two times frames between 1970 and the end of the Second World War.
In 1970, Charlotte tries to help her father research the man who saved his live at the end of the war. He remembers only a name. Charlotte’s investigation uncovers the stories of two brave women that that sacrificed everything for their country, as well as the fact that her father was actually a secret British agent.
Based on the research of two women, evidence of their work and lives, and sacrifices. Reading the author notes at the end of this fictional story, brought home the bravery of the thousands of men and women that lived through, fought and sacrificed for their families and country. This story is filled with the passion of suspense, danger and loyalty of the times. It saddens me that these stories are lost and I’m grateful to the author for bringing these to life.
It’s of course sad in the end simply because it’s historical and mostly lost to history.
Chloe and Fleur will live on in memory of the bravery.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley and the publisher.
June 26, 2023
Oh Kelly Rimmer, my heart! I don’t think that there has been a book by this wonderful Australian author that has not made me cry. Her stories are just so full of emotion and characters that you fall in love with. War is brutal, and Kelly finds these unsung heroes and shines a light on the work that they carried out under such harsh conditions. I always come away from her books feeling that I have learnt something, and a broken heart.
The Paris Agent is a compelling, dual timeline historical fiction, full of mystery. In 1970, Charlotte learns that her father, Noah, was a British SOE spy during WWII in France. He wants to find the man that saved his life but knows very little about him. Charlotte agrees to help him, and finds out so much more than she ever imagined. 1944, France. We hear the story of the war through the eyes of SOE agents Chloe and Fleur. These women see things that nobody should see, endure things that nobody could even imagine. Bit by bit, we see the treads of this story come together in an extremely emotional conclusion.
This book will make you think about how lucky we are to live in the world that we do today. It might not be perfect, but it is nothing like these women lived through.
Thanks so much to Hachette Australia for sending me this wonderful book to read. Publishes in Australia June 28th.
The Paris Agent is a compelling, dual timeline historical fiction, full of mystery. In 1970, Charlotte learns that her father, Noah, was a British SOE spy during WWII in France. He wants to find the man that saved his life but knows very little about him. Charlotte agrees to help him, and finds out so much more than she ever imagined. 1944, France. We hear the story of the war through the eyes of SOE agents Chloe and Fleur. These women see things that nobody should see, endure things that nobody could even imagine. Bit by bit, we see the treads of this story come together in an extremely emotional conclusion.
This book will make you think about how lucky we are to live in the world that we do today. It might not be perfect, but it is nothing like these women lived through.
Thanks so much to Hachette Australia for sending me this wonderful book to read. Publishes in Australia June 28th.
September 2, 2023
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
4.5 stars
Global bestselling author and local historical fiction fan fave Kelly Rimmer is back with another tale of courage and endurance in The Paris Agent. A story of war, bravery, female bonds, suspicion, deception, sacrifice, identity, secrets and long held truths, The Paris Agent is another historical fiction rapture piece from Kelly Rimmer.
After years serving in the Second World War as a British secret service operative, Mr Noah Ainsworth is a man haunted by the agent who managed to rescue him in a potentially deadly mission in occupied France. At the time Noah didn’t know the identity of this agent, or if this shadowy figure went on the survive the rest of the war unscathed. But Noah’s daughter Charlotte is inspired to help her father finally put the ghosts of the war to rest. Charlotte’s war quest uncovers a deeply moving story involving two important female operatives in the war named Chloe and Fleur. Both women gave their everything to the war effort, which often put their lives at risk. Even more disturbing was the fact that these women were also subject to the work of a double agent in their own field. With extreme hazards around these women, survival was key but also an almost impossible feat. Charlotte’s desire to seek out the truth takes an unexpected turn, especially when the status of the double agent in question is finally revealed. How will Noah react to the news?
Kelly Rimmer is one of our nation’s most popular authors in the historical fiction genre. It has been a pleasure to follow Kelly Rimmer since her first dalliance in the historical fiction field. I have also loved seeing her experience success internationally, which we have witnessed via Rimmer’s placement on the New York Times bestseller list. Personally, I will always make a beeline for Rimmer’s books, so The Paris Agent was an immediate book request via Hachette Australia.
The Paris Agent is a carefully researched, well-structured and skilfully delivered double timeline narrative. Rimmer expertly navigates both the tumultuous and eventful Second World War period and a post war thread, some twenty-five years after the main events of the story. I was impressed by this format and narrative design. The Paris Agent never appears complicated or unsteady. Rimmer has years of experience in the field of dual timeline historical fiction narrative titles, so this new release has been written with real purpose, strength and impact. I think readers will appreciate the link to and fro to the past, along with the shared form of narration. Rimmer completely embodies the lives and world of her core character set. We understand the trials, tribulations, successes and moments of downfall experienced by the lead protagonists of this novel. With a good balance of historical fact and human endeavour, we come to understand a chapter of the war that may have been overlooked or not discussed until now. Rimmer is quite the expert in her field in resurrecting pockets of the war, especially female centred experiences and incorporating these important achievements into an accessible historical fiction novel format.
With themes of the past, courage, double crossing, trust, chivalry, emotion, history, family, love, heartbreak, protection, conflict, danger, trauma, valour and female friendship bonds leading the way, The Paris Agent is a recommended read. As this is a story based on real life historical stars of the war, don’t forget to read through Kelly Rimmer’s fascinating author letter at the back of the book. The cover is also absolutely exquisite too, glory to Kelly Rimmer!
*Thanks is extended to Hachette Australia for providing a free copy of this book for review purposes.
4.5 stars
Global bestselling author and local historical fiction fan fave Kelly Rimmer is back with another tale of courage and endurance in The Paris Agent. A story of war, bravery, female bonds, suspicion, deception, sacrifice, identity, secrets and long held truths, The Paris Agent is another historical fiction rapture piece from Kelly Rimmer.
After years serving in the Second World War as a British secret service operative, Mr Noah Ainsworth is a man haunted by the agent who managed to rescue him in a potentially deadly mission in occupied France. At the time Noah didn’t know the identity of this agent, or if this shadowy figure went on the survive the rest of the war unscathed. But Noah’s daughter Charlotte is inspired to help her father finally put the ghosts of the war to rest. Charlotte’s war quest uncovers a deeply moving story involving two important female operatives in the war named Chloe and Fleur. Both women gave their everything to the war effort, which often put their lives at risk. Even more disturbing was the fact that these women were also subject to the work of a double agent in their own field. With extreme hazards around these women, survival was key but also an almost impossible feat. Charlotte’s desire to seek out the truth takes an unexpected turn, especially when the status of the double agent in question is finally revealed. How will Noah react to the news?
Kelly Rimmer is one of our nation’s most popular authors in the historical fiction genre. It has been a pleasure to follow Kelly Rimmer since her first dalliance in the historical fiction field. I have also loved seeing her experience success internationally, which we have witnessed via Rimmer’s placement on the New York Times bestseller list. Personally, I will always make a beeline for Rimmer’s books, so The Paris Agent was an immediate book request via Hachette Australia.
The Paris Agent is a carefully researched, well-structured and skilfully delivered double timeline narrative. Rimmer expertly navigates both the tumultuous and eventful Second World War period and a post war thread, some twenty-five years after the main events of the story. I was impressed by this format and narrative design. The Paris Agent never appears complicated or unsteady. Rimmer has years of experience in the field of dual timeline historical fiction narrative titles, so this new release has been written with real purpose, strength and impact. I think readers will appreciate the link to and fro to the past, along with the shared form of narration. Rimmer completely embodies the lives and world of her core character set. We understand the trials, tribulations, successes and moments of downfall experienced by the lead protagonists of this novel. With a good balance of historical fact and human endeavour, we come to understand a chapter of the war that may have been overlooked or not discussed until now. Rimmer is quite the expert in her field in resurrecting pockets of the war, especially female centred experiences and incorporating these important achievements into an accessible historical fiction novel format.
With themes of the past, courage, double crossing, trust, chivalry, emotion, history, family, love, heartbreak, protection, conflict, danger, trauma, valour and female friendship bonds leading the way, The Paris Agent is a recommended read. As this is a story based on real life historical stars of the war, don’t forget to read through Kelly Rimmer’s fascinating author letter at the back of the book. The cover is also absolutely exquisite too, glory to Kelly Rimmer!
*Thanks is extended to Hachette Australia for providing a free copy of this book for review purposes.
July 23, 2023
Noah Ainsworth was an SOE agent in WWII. He has lived with the bad memories and guilt about something he may have done to endanger other agents. But Noah came back from the war a damaged man with much of his memory foggy or lost.
It’s now some 25 years after the war, his wife has just died and he and his daughter Charlotte are grieving, but now is when he decides to reveal to his daughter his secret life as an SOE agent and tells her he must now find the man who saved his life to thank him.
As we learn in the Prologue the story involves female SOE agents in France during WWII. But it is Noah’s search for the man he wants to thank that drives the story.
Told in a number of POV’s we are plunged into the lives of the female SOE agents active in France with whom Noah served and the author says these agents are a composite of real SOE agents.
From here on the timelines go back and forth centering on two particular female agents with Noah and their time in France. It all becomes confusing due to the shifting time lines and the number of code names & real names both of which the author uses throughout. Even the author &/or the Editor got them mixed up at times.
It was hard for me to rate this book because I liked the ‘idea’ of the story more than I liked the book.
Most importantly I want to make clear SOE agents were NOT sent into the field with little or no training, they were extensively trained in the most strenuous and challenging manner, so much so, many never made it to the end of training and that included the men. The women who made it showed amazing courage and ingenuity in the most harrowing circumstance and must be lauded – for that reason I applaud any book that tells their story, even one that is not a 5-star read for me.
It’s now some 25 years after the war, his wife has just died and he and his daughter Charlotte are grieving, but now is when he decides to reveal to his daughter his secret life as an SOE agent and tells her he must now find the man who saved his life to thank him.
As we learn in the Prologue the story involves female SOE agents in France during WWII. But it is Noah’s search for the man he wants to thank that drives the story.
Told in a number of POV’s we are plunged into the lives of the female SOE agents active in France with whom Noah served and the author says these agents are a composite of real SOE agents.
From here on the timelines go back and forth centering on two particular female agents with Noah and their time in France. It all becomes confusing due to the shifting time lines and the number of code names & real names both of which the author uses throughout. Even the author &/or the Editor got them mixed up at times.
It was hard for me to rate this book because I liked the ‘idea’ of the story more than I liked the book.
Most importantly I want to make clear SOE agents were NOT sent into the field with little or no training, they were extensively trained in the most strenuous and challenging manner, so much so, many never made it to the end of training and that included the men. The women who made it showed amazing courage and ingenuity in the most harrowing circumstance and must be lauded – for that reason I applaud any book that tells their story, even one that is not a 5-star read for me.
October 19, 2023
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The Paris Agent by Kelly Rimmer. (2023).
25 years after the end of the war, ageing British secret service operative Noah is reflecting on the secret agent who saved his life when a mission went wrong in France. He never knew real names or if the agent survived. His daughter Charlotte begins a search for answers. What follows is the story of Fleur and Chloe, two ordinary women who are called up the SOE for deployment in France in 1943. They have no idea there is a double agent in their ranks. As Charlotte's search for answers bears fruit, suspicions emerge about the identity of the double agent, with unsettling implications for her father...
This one is another fabulous war era historical fiction from the author, inspired by real women. This author is well known for having very engaging and well-written novels and this book fits into the same description. I will say that I found the multiple character perspectives in combination with some characters using different names slightly confusing; it took me some time to really keep track of who was attached to which code name as well as what alias name they were using at the time. The storyline explores the brave women who took on spy work during WWII with barely any training, information or support and yet faced constant danger. Featuring dual timelines between 1944 and 1970, readers are immersed in the tension of the war work and then the mystery of what exactly happened to Noah as he doesn't have all his memories.
Overall: if historical WWII era fiction is your thing, don't go past this book.
*www.facebook.com/onewomansbbr
The Paris Agent by Kelly Rimmer. (2023).
25 years after the end of the war, ageing British secret service operative Noah is reflecting on the secret agent who saved his life when a mission went wrong in France. He never knew real names or if the agent survived. His daughter Charlotte begins a search for answers. What follows is the story of Fleur and Chloe, two ordinary women who are called up the SOE for deployment in France in 1943. They have no idea there is a double agent in their ranks. As Charlotte's search for answers bears fruit, suspicions emerge about the identity of the double agent, with unsettling implications for her father...
This one is another fabulous war era historical fiction from the author, inspired by real women. This author is well known for having very engaging and well-written novels and this book fits into the same description. I will say that I found the multiple character perspectives in combination with some characters using different names slightly confusing; it took me some time to really keep track of who was attached to which code name as well as what alias name they were using at the time. The storyline explores the brave women who took on spy work during WWII with barely any training, information or support and yet faced constant danger. Featuring dual timelines between 1944 and 1970, readers are immersed in the tension of the war work and then the mystery of what exactly happened to Noah as he doesn't have all his memories.
Overall: if historical WWII era fiction is your thing, don't go past this book.
July 13, 2023
Told in alternating time lines and alternating characters, THE PARIS AGENT takes us from the WWII operations of the SOE to 1970.
We meet many characters in the back story which made the book confusing and not easy to get interested in.
The characters from 1970 were a bit easier to keep track of since they included Noah, Charlotte, Professor Read, and Theo.
Noah wanted to thank one of his fellow SOE members, but finds out his wife had been right to not look back just ahead.
THE PARIS AGENT introduces the reader to another part of WWII that I didn't know about, and of course has chapters about the Nazis and their treatment of others.
There are many tearful moments, horrible moments, secrets, beautiful detailed writing, wonderful sentiments at the end, and well-researched events.
I do have to say the WWII chapters were difficult to follow. 4/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
We meet many characters in the back story which made the book confusing and not easy to get interested in.
The characters from 1970 were a bit easier to keep track of since they included Noah, Charlotte, Professor Read, and Theo.
Noah wanted to thank one of his fellow SOE members, but finds out his wife had been right to not look back just ahead.
THE PARIS AGENT introduces the reader to another part of WWII that I didn't know about, and of course has chapters about the Nazis and their treatment of others.
There are many tearful moments, horrible moments, secrets, beautiful detailed writing, wonderful sentiments at the end, and well-researched events.
I do have to say the WWII chapters were difficult to follow. 4/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
August 9, 2023
I’m starting a new category of rating simply called “good airplane books”. You know the type - not great, but good enough to get you through a flight. You might not remember them later on, but it was entertaining enough for the 3 hours you were in the air.
2 stars seems harsh for this book because I did enjoy parts of the book. The last few chapters were really good. But the fact of the matter is that I was bored for most of the book. The story was intriguing and you’re genuinely curious about what happens/happened. And it’s written in an interesting way, but I just found myself constantly wondering how much longer I had until I finished. This was just one of those books that once I put it down, nothing in me was jumping to pick it back up again.
2 stars seems harsh for this book because I did enjoy parts of the book. The last few chapters were really good. But the fact of the matter is that I was bored for most of the book. The story was intriguing and you’re genuinely curious about what happens/happened. And it’s written in an interesting way, but I just found myself constantly wondering how much longer I had until I finished. This was just one of those books that once I put it down, nothing in me was jumping to pick it back up again.
June 29, 2023
4.5⭐️ Time and time again, I find myself learning so much from well researched WWII fiction novels such as Kelly Rimmer’s latest, 𝑻𝒉𝒆 𝑷𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒔 𝑨𝒈𝒆𝒏𝒕. Incredibly rich with detail surrounding the Special Operations Executive (SOE) Force, tasked with thwarting Hitler’s plans, this story focuses on the important work being done by these secret forces, and what they risked on a personal level, in order to carry out their missions.
This is my first book by Rimmer and I am incredibly impressed with her nuanced, yet engaging storytelling. Told from multiple perspectives during two different time lines, the way she weaves together these very complex and unique stories, kept me engaged from page one through the emotional epilogue and author’s note.
The audiobook was brilliantly narrated by three very talented women, Elizabeth Knowelden, Fiona Hardingham, and Emma Fenney, who all managed to make their character shine within this ensemble. I will say that due to the vast amount of characters, including different pseudonyms, and the details of their missions, I would suggest doing an immersive read using both the physical/e-book and the audiobook for the best experience.
Excuse me while I go read the author’s entire backlist. Thank you {partners} TLC Book Tours, Grayson House and Harper Audio for my gifted copies.
This is my first book by Rimmer and I am incredibly impressed with her nuanced, yet engaging storytelling. Told from multiple perspectives during two different time lines, the way she weaves together these very complex and unique stories, kept me engaged from page one through the emotional epilogue and author’s note.
The audiobook was brilliantly narrated by three very talented women, Elizabeth Knowelden, Fiona Hardingham, and Emma Fenney, who all managed to make their character shine within this ensemble. I will say that due to the vast amount of characters, including different pseudonyms, and the details of their missions, I would suggest doing an immersive read using both the physical/e-book and the audiobook for the best experience.
Excuse me while I go read the author’s entire backlist. Thank you {partners} TLC Book Tours, Grayson House and Harper Audio for my gifted copies.
October 14, 2023
DNF. An easy read but couldn’t handle the completely unnecessary inclusion of a homosexual relationship in this fictional book that felt entirely scripted for social agenda reasons. May have ended well enough but too many other books on my list to waste my time on the rest of this.
July 2, 2023
I am a huge fan of Kelly Rimmer’s books and always applaud the thorough research that goes into each novel. This Paris Agent is no exception, and I personally think this is one of her denser books as far as historical facts goes, making it great for those who love historical fiction but not the first I’d recommend if you only dabble in this genre. If the latter is the case read Rimmer’s The Things We Cannot Say first!!
The Paris Agent highlights the lives of multiple British SOE (Special Operations Executive) agents during WWII and jumps between the war years in France and post war (1970) in England. I truly loved how each perspective was woven together and how the story blended romance, action, history, espionage and mystery. It was easy to feel all the emotions you expect when reading about this time period and feel as though you are experiencing each triumph and battle with the characters.
Note: I will say this is a book I suggest reading over listening to as the characters switch between their real and field agent names within chapters and across perspectives, and I found myself needing to go back a reread sections to make sure I really caught on without missing key details!
Read if you like:
-WWII HF
-Learning about the SOE
-Side romance and mystery storylines
-Code Name Helene/ The Rose Code
Thank you HTP for the ARC. Pub date 7/11/23
The Paris Agent highlights the lives of multiple British SOE (Special Operations Executive) agents during WWII and jumps between the war years in France and post war (1970) in England. I truly loved how each perspective was woven together and how the story blended romance, action, history, espionage and mystery. It was easy to feel all the emotions you expect when reading about this time period and feel as though you are experiencing each triumph and battle with the characters.
Note: I will say this is a book I suggest reading over listening to as the characters switch between their real and field agent names within chapters and across perspectives, and I found myself needing to go back a reread sections to make sure I really caught on without missing key details!
Read if you like:
-WWII HF
-Learning about the SOE
-Side romance and mystery storylines
-Code Name Helene/ The Rose Code
Thank you HTP for the ARC. Pub date 7/11/23
May 11, 2023
This is one of my favorite genres to read, and I've enjoyed other books by Rimmer. This one, however, wasn't one of my favorites. There's a large cast of agents, who go by code names, and it was quite confusing to keep them all straight without flipping back or taking notes on who's who. I did enjoy the dual timeline. Things did come together a bit by the end, thankfully. However, I think the book could've benefitted from following just one mission and keeping things more focused overall.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy, but I wasn't required to leave a positive review.
June 12, 2023
Thank you Hachette for sending us a copy to read and review.
Kelly Rimmer is historical fiction royalty and her stories capture emotion, authenticity, beauty, history and are always insightful.
A fascinating and compelling tale drawing inspiration from real life women from a leading voice in the popular genre.
1970 and retired secret service agent Noah Ainsworth is thinking a lot about his past.
During the war he was saved when a secret mission turned to danger.
His daughter, Charlotte helps him find the truth.
World War Two and the lives of Chloe and Fleur who risk everything to become agents in France, find their survival collide with Noah.
But a double agent is among them……
A dual timeline narrative set partly among the horrors of war and the aftermath that takes place to those involved, the good and bad of humanity, the life of a agent and a double agent and the power of female friendship.
Kelly highlights certain themes throughout and with strong female leads her books are must reads.
A novel that deserves a position on the top shelf, a story that should be spotlighted, the history that will, at times, make you uncomfortable and the characters are raw and authentic.
But we as readers devote our time to consume these novels to keep the subject matter alive, these little known truths.
Reading the authors letter at the end gives the reader an understanding of the work that went into this project, the influence behind the characters and the meticulous research.
The Paris Agent is another success story from one of our great storytellers.
Kelly Rimmer is historical fiction royalty and her stories capture emotion, authenticity, beauty, history and are always insightful.
A fascinating and compelling tale drawing inspiration from real life women from a leading voice in the popular genre.
1970 and retired secret service agent Noah Ainsworth is thinking a lot about his past.
During the war he was saved when a secret mission turned to danger.
His daughter, Charlotte helps him find the truth.
World War Two and the lives of Chloe and Fleur who risk everything to become agents in France, find their survival collide with Noah.
But a double agent is among them……
A dual timeline narrative set partly among the horrors of war and the aftermath that takes place to those involved, the good and bad of humanity, the life of a agent and a double agent and the power of female friendship.
Kelly highlights certain themes throughout and with strong female leads her books are must reads.
A novel that deserves a position on the top shelf, a story that should be spotlighted, the history that will, at times, make you uncomfortable and the characters are raw and authentic.
But we as readers devote our time to consume these novels to keep the subject matter alive, these little known truths.
Reading the authors letter at the end gives the reader an understanding of the work that went into this project, the influence behind the characters and the meticulous research.
The Paris Agent is another success story from one of our great storytellers.
July 16, 2023
I liked this telling of female agents told in alternating chapters between two agents and the daughter who helps her father uncover his own mystery years later. What I didn't like is the lack of distinction between the two agents voices. They became blurred at times although their stories were different. Interesting and suspenseful. A consistent author.
Copy provided by the publisher and NetGalley
Copy provided by the publisher and NetGalley
August 19, 2023
For me, the story failed to flow; it went here, there and everywhere.
April 8, 2023
Incroyable.
It has been many years since I’ve read fiction because I was tired of being let down by bad fiction. This book is truly phenomenal. It pulls you in right from the start of the book and keeps you engaged until the very end.
This book tells the collective stories of a group of people (4-6) through the POV of three separate women. Charlotte is the daughter of a spy agent who served in WW2, and reeling from the death of her mother, she throws herself into helping her father find the man who saved his life. This throws her into the path of others who are on their own missions searching for truth in a world hidden behind inaccessible “classified” folders.
Eloise and Josie were two women spy agents who both have stories to tell and narrate their classified heroic stories in chapters interspersed throughout Charlotte’s progress.
The stories are so beautifully woven together and progress quickly enough that it’s never boring. If I had one critique of the book (and honestly, I’m not sure how you get around this one just by nature of the story), it was difficult to place Eloise and Josie throughout because they went by code names Fleur and Chloe and occasionally by other names. The chapter headings use their given names and the bulk of the chapter content uses their field agent names. About midway through, I was able to distinguish the two women and their stories by both their names.
Loved this book and highly recommend. A special thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for my eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
It has been many years since I’ve read fiction because I was tired of being let down by bad fiction. This book is truly phenomenal. It pulls you in right from the start of the book and keeps you engaged until the very end.
This book tells the collective stories of a group of people (4-6) through the POV of three separate women. Charlotte is the daughter of a spy agent who served in WW2, and reeling from the death of her mother, she throws herself into helping her father find the man who saved his life. This throws her into the path of others who are on their own missions searching for truth in a world hidden behind inaccessible “classified” folders.
Eloise and Josie were two women spy agents who both have stories to tell and narrate their classified heroic stories in chapters interspersed throughout Charlotte’s progress.
The stories are so beautifully woven together and progress quickly enough that it’s never boring. If I had one critique of the book (and honestly, I’m not sure how you get around this one just by nature of the story), it was difficult to place Eloise and Josie throughout because they went by code names Fleur and Chloe and occasionally by other names. The chapter headings use their given names and the bulk of the chapter content uses their field agent names. About midway through, I was able to distinguish the two women and their stories by both their names.
Loved this book and highly recommend. A special thanks to Harlequin Trade Publishing and NetGalley for my eARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
April 21, 2023
You know you are in safe hands and kind of should have some tissues ready when you start a new Kelly Rimmer. And The Paris Agent might be my most favourite yet. No spoilers here at all, but oh my goodness, what a web of secrets and bravery, confusion and courage. I feel I’ve been given real insight into being an WW2 SOE officer. The ‘fog of war’ even. This is just brilliant. It is a confusing read to start off with; these agents go by code names and there are a few different agents we are following. But I think that adds to the experience. Our protagonists too are struggling with a lack of information and clues. You are right there beside them. Another brilliant Kelly Rimmer.
It’s not out until July so get excited and thank you SO very much Hachette for the arc!!!!!!!!!!!
It’s not out until July so get excited and thank you SO very much Hachette for the arc!!!!!!!!!!!
July 6, 2023
Kelly Rimmer continues to deliver and once again she packs an emotional punch with her latest, The Paris Agent. In short, it’s an incredible story that you simply must read that is told through a dual timeline narrative from 1944 during WWII and later in the 1970s.
‘Sometimes in war, impossible calculations needed to be made.’
I was left shaking my head upon turning the final page with the adage, ‘people really couldn’t make this stuff up’ - and they don’t! Upon reading Kelly’s Notes at the end of the book readers are enlightened on what was fact and fiction. It is absolutely distressing to realise that some events of pure evil did in fact happen! Based on the true story of WWII agents Violette Szabo and Diana Rowden (and many others included) readers come to understand (through Kelly’s detailed research) and will find themselves once more overwhelmed by the absolute courage, sacrifice and heartache. It’s nothing but brutal and confronting as Kelly rips your heart out for these characters.
"The only thing I know for sure is that the war ended because women like Josie stepped up."
Kelly’s writing is unsurpassed with the seamless weaving of timelines, fact and fiction and heartrending emotion. What these SOE agents experienced makes you appreciate and send thanks for the sacrifices that make our lives what they are today. Even the more contemporary timeline of the 1970s (often a weaker link) is so strong with the various threads all being wound together from past and present for a worthy conclusion.
‘Hold them in your heart at the end," I said to her softly.
"Even when the world around us goes to hell, we can find peace in our minds.”
A box of tissues should never be far from hand when reading a Kelly Rimmer book. A story about duty and diligence, secrets and lies, betrayal and bravery, tragedy and trauma, loss and love. Kelly’s books never disappoint.
“My mother used to say that even in the worst of times, we must look for ways to do good," she said quietly. "I think I had forgotten until just now. So thank you.”
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
‘Sometimes in war, impossible calculations needed to be made.’
I was left shaking my head upon turning the final page with the adage, ‘people really couldn’t make this stuff up’ - and they don’t! Upon reading Kelly’s Notes at the end of the book readers are enlightened on what was fact and fiction. It is absolutely distressing to realise that some events of pure evil did in fact happen! Based on the true story of WWII agents Violette Szabo and Diana Rowden (and many others included) readers come to understand (through Kelly’s detailed research) and will find themselves once more overwhelmed by the absolute courage, sacrifice and heartache. It’s nothing but brutal and confronting as Kelly rips your heart out for these characters.
"The only thing I know for sure is that the war ended because women like Josie stepped up."
Kelly’s writing is unsurpassed with the seamless weaving of timelines, fact and fiction and heartrending emotion. What these SOE agents experienced makes you appreciate and send thanks for the sacrifices that make our lives what they are today. Even the more contemporary timeline of the 1970s (often a weaker link) is so strong with the various threads all being wound together from past and present for a worthy conclusion.
‘Hold them in your heart at the end," I said to her softly.
"Even when the world around us goes to hell, we can find peace in our minds.”
A box of tissues should never be far from hand when reading a Kelly Rimmer book. A story about duty and diligence, secrets and lies, betrayal and bravery, tragedy and trauma, loss and love. Kelly’s books never disappoint.
“My mother used to say that even in the worst of times, we must look for ways to do good," she said quietly. "I think I had forgotten until just now. So thank you.”
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
July 17, 2023
I love historical fiction, especially when it’s based on actual events and people. The Paris Agent is based on the true story of agents Violette Szabo and Diana Rowden, along with others who risked their lives in WWII. This story will grab you from the beginning.
The story is told from dual timelines. The first begins in the summer of 1970 with Charlotte and Noah Ainsworth in Liverpool, London. Charlotte learns that her father, a mechanic, was a secret agent during the war. A British SOE who was injured. Now that her mother, his wife, is gone, he wants to find the man who saved him in France twenty-five years ago. Noah suffered a traumatic brain injury and has only a name and the hospital where he awoke. Charlotte’s efforts to aid her father lead her to Professor Harry Read and his junior researcher, Theo.
The second timeline shares Chloe and Fleur’s perceptive while they were serving in France and on leave in England. These young women willingly were thrust into danger after three months of intense training. The author did a phenomenal job of pulling the reader in as they took risks, dealt with possible double agents and took on more tasks than they trained for. These heroes were so brave and you cannot help but admire them. Carriers and wireless transfers became missions of sabotage, reconnaissance, and espionage. They learned how to use and deploy weapons and faced danger at every turn. I became caught up in their story and the rich historical facts.
The characters, mystery, and the history of these British SOE agents provided an addictive story. I connected with the characters from both timelines and finished this story in a few sittings. The two threads intertwined as the present looked for Remy. It was brilliantly done with great pacing and build up.
Fans of historical fiction, WWII stories, and heroes will want to add this memorable story to their must read pile. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
The story is told from dual timelines. The first begins in the summer of 1970 with Charlotte and Noah Ainsworth in Liverpool, London. Charlotte learns that her father, a mechanic, was a secret agent during the war. A British SOE who was injured. Now that her mother, his wife, is gone, he wants to find the man who saved him in France twenty-five years ago. Noah suffered a traumatic brain injury and has only a name and the hospital where he awoke. Charlotte’s efforts to aid her father lead her to Professor Harry Read and his junior researcher, Theo.
The second timeline shares Chloe and Fleur’s perceptive while they were serving in France and on leave in England. These young women willingly were thrust into danger after three months of intense training. The author did a phenomenal job of pulling the reader in as they took risks, dealt with possible double agents and took on more tasks than they trained for. These heroes were so brave and you cannot help but admire them. Carriers and wireless transfers became missions of sabotage, reconnaissance, and espionage. They learned how to use and deploy weapons and faced danger at every turn. I became caught up in their story and the rich historical facts.
The characters, mystery, and the history of these British SOE agents provided an addictive story. I connected with the characters from both timelines and finished this story in a few sittings. The two threads intertwined as the present looked for Remy. It was brilliantly done with great pacing and build up.
Fans of historical fiction, WWII stories, and heroes will want to add this memorable story to their must read pile. This review was originally posted at Caffeinated Reviewer
August 30, 2023
Kelly Rimmer is one of my favorite historical fiction writers. She doesn't fail to bring vivid history, emotional impact, and heartfelt plots and characters to each of her stories. The Paris Agent is all about uncovering lost memories and honoring the women who fought for freedom in the dangerous SOE program.
There are 3 POVs...2 are women in the SOE (1940s) and one is in 1970...the daughter of a man who fought alongside these women. And while I wouldn't say this is a happy story, it can be a bit hard to read at some points, I don't think that is the point of the book. Rimmer has made a poignant and memorable story capturing these woman in their darkest hours and letting us know exactly what they stood for. I loved having the authors note at the end and hearing about where she pulled information directly from these women's histories.
I always love knowing i'm reading something true about history even when its a bit jumbled around due to the fictional nature. This is a well written book full of lies, espionage, love, and ultimately....sacrifice.
If you enjoy historical fiction, I wouldn't hesitate to say add this to your list.
There are 3 POVs...2 are women in the SOE (1940s) and one is in 1970...the daughter of a man who fought alongside these women. And while I wouldn't say this is a happy story, it can be a bit hard to read at some points, I don't think that is the point of the book. Rimmer has made a poignant and memorable story capturing these woman in their darkest hours and letting us know exactly what they stood for. I loved having the authors note at the end and hearing about where she pulled information directly from these women's histories.
I always love knowing i'm reading something true about history even when its a bit jumbled around due to the fictional nature. This is a well written book full of lies, espionage, love, and ultimately....sacrifice.
If you enjoy historical fiction, I wouldn't hesitate to say add this to your list.
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