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The Lost Dressmaker of Paris
When Darcie purchases several old suitcases at auction that had been abandoned in a railway station locker, she doesn't know what to expect.
The first is disappointing but as she opens the second, she discovers rare and beautiful dresses for the 1940s, lovingly folded, and a notebook of designs to go with them. Written inside the cover is the name: Nathalie Leroux
Why did she leave her most prized possessions at the station eighty years ago? And why did Nathalie never return for them?
Darcie's quest for answers will draw her into the world of the French resistance as she works to uncover the truth about a devastating wartime secret. But is Darcie prepared for what she will find? And for the power of Nathalie secrets to change her world forever...
The first is disappointing but as she opens the second, she discovers rare and beautiful dresses for the 1940s, lovingly folded, and a notebook of designs to go with them. Written inside the cover is the name: Nathalie Leroux
Why did she leave her most prized possessions at the station eighty years ago? And why did Nathalie never return for them?
Darcie's quest for answers will draw her into the world of the French resistance as she works to uncover the truth about a devastating wartime secret. But is Darcie prepared for what she will find? And for the power of Nathalie secrets to change her world forever...
355 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 11, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 169 reviews
June 20, 2023
I love how the cover complements The Dance Teacher of Paris!
Don’t let the idea of Chanel, WW2, and resistance turn you away from reading this book. Yes, it’s been done … A LOT. But, Fortin brings a fresh perspective and mystery to the fashion world of WW2.
She begins with a suitcase that’s been left at a railway station and builds a phenomenal story about who left it there, what it contains, and why this person never returned for it. She brings this story to life with a dual timeline, giving readers both sides of the story - who found the case and who left it. It’s a compelling read and you’ll unearth devastating wartime secrets and be in awe of the courage and strength of women in wartime. I love how the thread of love tied together the two timelines and highlighted the author’s message.
Nobody writes historical fiction set in France quite like Fortin. If you haven’t read one of her books yet, you need to put them on your list.
I was gifted this copy by Embla Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Don’t let the idea of Chanel, WW2, and resistance turn you away from reading this book. Yes, it’s been done … A LOT. But, Fortin brings a fresh perspective and mystery to the fashion world of WW2.
She begins with a suitcase that’s been left at a railway station and builds a phenomenal story about who left it there, what it contains, and why this person never returned for it. She brings this story to life with a dual timeline, giving readers both sides of the story - who found the case and who left it. It’s a compelling read and you’ll unearth devastating wartime secrets and be in awe of the courage and strength of women in wartime. I love how the thread of love tied together the two timelines and highlighted the author’s message.
Nobody writes historical fiction set in France quite like Fortin. If you haven’t read one of her books yet, you need to put them on your list.
I was gifted this copy by Embla Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
July 13, 2023
A must-read for historical fiction lovers.
Darcie is a young woman quite content with helping her mom and sister run a vintage store. It gives her a chance to hunt for rare items, and spurs her desire to know their back-stories. At auction she purchases an old locker once used for lost items that came from an abandoned train station. When Darcie examines the locker’s contents, she discovers a sketchbook of clothing designs dating back to the war years of the ‘40s, and also a beautiful hand-made gown. Intrigued, Darcie begins to investigate about the designer/artist. What she discovers is a story of bravery and love, but also betrayal and heartbreak…
Any time I read about the Resistance fighters of WW2, I’m always amazed at the lengths they were willing to go to fight the evil that had infiltrated their world. I’m also always amazed, and saddened, at the depths of depravity that people would sink to in trying to silence these brave souls.
Darcie is a young woman quite content with helping her mom and sister run a vintage store. It gives her a chance to hunt for rare items, and spurs her desire to know their back-stories. At auction she purchases an old locker once used for lost items that came from an abandoned train station. When Darcie examines the locker’s contents, she discovers a sketchbook of clothing designs dating back to the war years of the ‘40s, and also a beautiful hand-made gown. Intrigued, Darcie begins to investigate about the designer/artist. What she discovers is a story of bravery and love, but also betrayal and heartbreak…
Any time I read about the Resistance fighters of WW2, I’m always amazed at the lengths they were willing to go to fight the evil that had infiltrated their world. I’m also always amazed, and saddened, at the depths of depravity that people would sink to in trying to silence these brave souls.
October 4, 2023
eh
I feel like this book was pretty cheesy, and had generic writing. There were also a handful of typos throughout the book. Overall, decent story, but the dialogue and writing would sometimes make me cringe or roll my eyes.
I feel like this book was pretty cheesy, and had generic writing. There were also a handful of typos throughout the book. Overall, decent story, but the dialogue and writing would sometimes make me cringe or roll my eyes.
January 21, 2024
I liked the storylines of the characters, but thought it was poorly written.
February 6, 2024
The storyline of this book was overall good! There were some pretty far fetched scenarios and some that were a little cheesy. There were also some inconsistencies and typos. I really did enjoy the story despite those.
May 29, 2024
Enjoyed this intertwined story of a brave French seamstress in WWII and a present day vintage shop owner who uncovers her story after purchasing a mystery suitcase that had been deserted in a storage locker.
August 31, 2023
Loved the story but the narration is terrible…..
September 7, 2024
I was completely hooked by this novel from the start. Vintage shop owner, Darcie, discovers an exquisite evening gown and a fashion sketchbook when she opens the abandoned suitcase she purchased at auction. As she tries to discover who the owner was, readers are transported back to 1944 Paris where they meet Nathalie Leroux, a young, talented fashion designer who joins the resistance after a family member is killed by the Nazis.
The Lost Dressmaker of Paris was a heart-wrenching, well-researched novel. Full of suspense, fashion, drama, danger and bravery, it was a wonderful read.
The Lost Dressmaker of Paris was a heart-wrenching, well-researched novel. Full of suspense, fashion, drama, danger and bravery, it was a wonderful read.
March 25, 2025
Interesting Read
Excellent Read! Strong main character Nathalie. Couldn’t put the book halfway through! Want to read more books by this author. Learned a lot of history from reading this book. Didn’t understand how main character dies at the end the only thing I didn’t like.
Excellent Read! Strong main character Nathalie. Couldn’t put the book halfway through! Want to read more books by this author. Learned a lot of history from reading this book. Didn’t understand how main character dies at the end the only thing I didn’t like.
Read
May 12, 2024An enjoyable dual timeline WW2 tale.
May 27, 2024
Wow, having just discovered this author through my search on ww2 historical fiction with a little romance too, I’m again pleased to review yet another good read from this author. I love dual time zone novels so you have two storylines going on that become linked. This author cleverly takes you on both stories that you can’t wait to read the next chapter to follow what happens to who next. Once again nice characters. Happy ending. Shall be looking for more from this author. Having already read her other novel the dance teacher of Paris, already I have reviewed that one. So if you like to read two stories that entwine in different eras and one that is in the occupation of the Germans in France then this novel won’t disappoint you.
October 13, 2023
This was an enjoyable read, but a little too heavy on the romance side for my taste. The characters and plot were well thought out. I was engaged with both throughout reading the book. I do enjoy a well-written dual-timeline story and found that I could quickly determine who the antagonist was pretty early on which was disappointing because I knew it was just a matter of time until things were revealed.
October 28, 2023
I saw all the 5 star reviews and I think it gave me unrealistic expectations…
It was a nice enough story but the characters were one dimensional, and some of the writing made me roll my eyes.
I listened to the audiobook version which I don’t think helped (I found the narrator verrrrry grating) so I’ve whacked on an extra star to what my initial review was going to be, as it’s probably not fair to let the audiobook performance affect anything!
It was a nice enough story but the characters were one dimensional, and some of the writing made me roll my eyes.
I listened to the audiobook version which I don’t think helped (I found the narrator verrrrry grating) so I’ve whacked on an extra star to what my initial review was going to be, as it’s probably not fair to let the audiobook performance affect anything!
July 11, 2023
This is one of the most exhilarating dual time line stories I have read this year! I cannot remember when I was so captivated by a plot that I was constantly on the edge of my seat. Practically every page had me filled with such tension I thought I would burst with anticipation! I kept wondering what would happen next. There were a few things I expected but there were also incredible surprises along the way that kept my interest at frantic levels. This is one fascinating World War II story brimming with courage, determination, love, mystery, fashion and finesse.
The Lost Dressmaker of Paris is set during WWII and modern day. In the present timeline, we meet Darcie, a keen business owner. She attends auctions to find collectables for her Vintaged and Loved shop. She enjoys the thrill of bidding but even more in finding treasures. She has sourced quite an admirable number of items for her store stock. And on this particular day, she finds herself in a frantic bidding war but manages to acquire Lot 176: the ‘left-luggage lockers recently removed from the now disused West Sussex train station.’ After paying for her win, excitedly she opens a suitcase to see what it unveils. These purchases can be a gamble but this time it has paid off. What she finds inside absolutely stuns her. A dress that looks just like one worn by the famous Coco Chanel and a designer’s sketch book. Immediately her interest is sparked and she feels a connection to the past owner. It seems as though fate has brought these special items to her. She wants to know more about this Nathalie Leroux (name inside the suitcase) and begins an amazing journey that takes her to Paris where she meets, by chance, a photographer attending an important fashion show. They first become fast friends and then their relationship blossoms further. He also becomes intrigued with Darcie’s drive to uncover the story behind the dress and sketch book. And whether there is a connection to Coco Chanel. Together they utilise their skills and contacts to solve this fascinating, though heartbreaking mystery. Wonderful characters materialise—including a special lady from the past who has the answers to their questions.
In another timeline, we see Nathalie live out all the things Darcie is trying to uncover. We learn this talented dress designer led a dangerous and dedicated life once the Nazis occupied Paris. Edgar, Nathalie’s brother, becomes involved in some dangerous operations of the Resistance. Although she is proud of him taking a stand to protect his country, she secretly worries about his safety. And rightfully so, as what later happens sets Nathalie on a path of revenge and into the lion’s den.
The suspense in the historical timeline is off the charts while we follow Nathalie through some very dangerous operations and manoeuvres. But this carries over into the present day when Darcie gets closer to the truth of what happened to this dressmaker from the past (during World War II). She runs into some pretty nasty interference, too. There are others after this dress and sketchbook for they hold more value than anyone could have imagined. As mentioned, you get this feeling that the past is sliding into the present—especially in the area of enemies. There is so much to untangle in this complicated plot, but it keeps this story buzzing along at break neck speed.
There is no question that this novel is skilfully written. It contains exceptional setting descriptions and highly detailed events. It is obvious Suzanne has done her research well. It made me feel as though I was there with the characters: seeing what they saw, feeling their fears, experiencing their tears and gasping for moments of joy.
I am dying now to read more of Suzanne Fortin’s novels and actually have her previous one waiting on my Kindle App. I am delighted to have read this magnificent story that truly made me feel, think and weep at times. I wholeheartedly recommend The Lost Dressmaker of Paris and give it 5 Brave Stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to publisher Embla Books and Netgalley for my review copy.
The Lost Dressmaker of Paris is set during WWII and modern day. In the present timeline, we meet Darcie, a keen business owner. She attends auctions to find collectables for her Vintaged and Loved shop. She enjoys the thrill of bidding but even more in finding treasures. She has sourced quite an admirable number of items for her store stock. And on this particular day, she finds herself in a frantic bidding war but manages to acquire Lot 176: the ‘left-luggage lockers recently removed from the now disused West Sussex train station.’ After paying for her win, excitedly she opens a suitcase to see what it unveils. These purchases can be a gamble but this time it has paid off. What she finds inside absolutely stuns her. A dress that looks just like one worn by the famous Coco Chanel and a designer’s sketch book. Immediately her interest is sparked and she feels a connection to the past owner. It seems as though fate has brought these special items to her. She wants to know more about this Nathalie Leroux (name inside the suitcase) and begins an amazing journey that takes her to Paris where she meets, by chance, a photographer attending an important fashion show. They first become fast friends and then their relationship blossoms further. He also becomes intrigued with Darcie’s drive to uncover the story behind the dress and sketch book. And whether there is a connection to Coco Chanel. Together they utilise their skills and contacts to solve this fascinating, though heartbreaking mystery. Wonderful characters materialise—including a special lady from the past who has the answers to their questions.
In another timeline, we see Nathalie live out all the things Darcie is trying to uncover. We learn this talented dress designer led a dangerous and dedicated life once the Nazis occupied Paris. Edgar, Nathalie’s brother, becomes involved in some dangerous operations of the Resistance. Although she is proud of him taking a stand to protect his country, she secretly worries about his safety. And rightfully so, as what later happens sets Nathalie on a path of revenge and into the lion’s den.
The suspense in the historical timeline is off the charts while we follow Nathalie through some very dangerous operations and manoeuvres. But this carries over into the present day when Darcie gets closer to the truth of what happened to this dressmaker from the past (during World War II). She runs into some pretty nasty interference, too. There are others after this dress and sketchbook for they hold more value than anyone could have imagined. As mentioned, you get this feeling that the past is sliding into the present—especially in the area of enemies. There is so much to untangle in this complicated plot, but it keeps this story buzzing along at break neck speed.
There is no question that this novel is skilfully written. It contains exceptional setting descriptions and highly detailed events. It is obvious Suzanne has done her research well. It made me feel as though I was there with the characters: seeing what they saw, feeling their fears, experiencing their tears and gasping for moments of joy.
I am dying now to read more of Suzanne Fortin’s novels and actually have her previous one waiting on my Kindle App. I am delighted to have read this magnificent story that truly made me feel, think and weep at times. I wholeheartedly recommend The Lost Dressmaker of Paris and give it 5 Brave Stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to publisher Embla Books and Netgalley for my review copy.
July 24, 2023
You don't want to miss this one! Anyone who is a fan of WWII fiction set in Paris will absolutely love this heart-touching novel by author Suzanne Fortin.
It begins at an auction for antiques where vintage shop owner Darcie wins her bid on old train lockers, inside one of the lockers she finds a beautiful handmade dress from the 1940s and a sketch book full of what looks like professional clothing designs, very beautiful ones. Intrigued and feeling compelled to find out who the suitcase belonged to and why such items were abandoned, forgotten for over 40 years, Darcie begins to investigate a name she finds in the suitcase, Nathalie Leroux. Her investigation brings her to Paris and the story she finds is one both of courage, loyalty and love, but also of sadness, heartbreak and betrayal.
I really enjoyed this book. I know some will say "oh, not another book about WWII, Coco Chanel, and Paris" but believe me this one stands out amongst the many others out there! This has got to be one of the best novels I have read this year about the war and the many courageous men and women who had the courage to fight for what they believed and take a stand against the evil that had invaded their country and their lives. I never fail to marvel over the stories of the everyday men and women who joined the fight against Hitler's evil, not only the members of the resistance but the shop owners, store clerks, and many more that stood up for what was right and good in the world. This is a wonderfully sad yet uplifting tale of one of those women, and how she fought for what she believed in.
Thank you to Embla books and to Net Galley for the free ARC, I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
It begins at an auction for antiques where vintage shop owner Darcie wins her bid on old train lockers, inside one of the lockers she finds a beautiful handmade dress from the 1940s and a sketch book full of what looks like professional clothing designs, very beautiful ones. Intrigued and feeling compelled to find out who the suitcase belonged to and why such items were abandoned, forgotten for over 40 years, Darcie begins to investigate a name she finds in the suitcase, Nathalie Leroux. Her investigation brings her to Paris and the story she finds is one both of courage, loyalty and love, but also of sadness, heartbreak and betrayal.
I really enjoyed this book. I know some will say "oh, not another book about WWII, Coco Chanel, and Paris" but believe me this one stands out amongst the many others out there! This has got to be one of the best novels I have read this year about the war and the many courageous men and women who had the courage to fight for what they believed and take a stand against the evil that had invaded their country and their lives. I never fail to marvel over the stories of the everyday men and women who joined the fight against Hitler's evil, not only the members of the resistance but the shop owners, store clerks, and many more that stood up for what was right and good in the world. This is a wonderfully sad yet uplifting tale of one of those women, and how she fought for what she believed in.
Thank you to Embla books and to Net Galley for the free ARC, I am leaving my honest review voluntarily.
August 14, 2023
When Darcie goes to a special auction to purchase things for her store Vintaged and Loved, she has no idea that some of the items in the old rail station lockers will take her on an adventure to solve a mystery from World War 2 in the previous century. The notebook is full of incredible designs, an envelope from the Ritz and the dress is almost identical to one that Coco Chanel wore all done by Nathalie Leroux. Darcie has never really had time off from the store or looking after her mother who is disabled, but her mother, sister, grandma and friends band together to send her on an adventure to find out who Nathalie is and why were her things were in a locker. Little does she realize that not only will it lead her to discovery of incredible parts of history, it will also lead her to the chance of falling in love.
Nathalie was the daughter of a tailor/store owner in Nazi occupied Paris and has dreams of opening her own house of fashion one day. But circumstances put all these dreams on hold not only because of the war, but also because of what is happening to the family. She will do anything for revenge after the death of an immediate family member, including working for the Resistance. Little does she know that it will lead to the chance of a lifetime not in meeting and working for Coco Chanel but also because she falls in love.
In the telling of this story, the author was able to intertwine the good, the bad, the love, the sorrow, the history, and more in such a beautiful way. What happens takes place in two different centuries, with two different women…but in the end it ties them together forever. This is a book I definitely recommend and can’t wait to read some of her others.
Nathalie was the daughter of a tailor/store owner in Nazi occupied Paris and has dreams of opening her own house of fashion one day. But circumstances put all these dreams on hold not only because of the war, but also because of what is happening to the family. She will do anything for revenge after the death of an immediate family member, including working for the Resistance. Little does she know that it will lead to the chance of a lifetime not in meeting and working for Coco Chanel but also because she falls in love.
In the telling of this story, the author was able to intertwine the good, the bad, the love, the sorrow, the history, and more in such a beautiful way. What happens takes place in two different centuries, with two different women…but in the end it ties them together forever. This is a book I definitely recommend and can’t wait to read some of her others.
June 4, 2023
This is a dual timeline novel set during WWII, 1942 and currently in 2022. Nathalie Leroux was the daughter of a well known and sought after tailor in the city. of Paris As his daughter, she had the freedom of dress designing, hoping one day to have her own fashion house. She designed many beautiful dresses and sketched them in her book, but with Paris now occupied by the Nazis her dream would be put on hold. Further, when her brother Edgar joined with the resistance, the entire family was now in harm's way.
In 2022 Darcie Marchant owned a vintage clothing shop in West Sussex, England. At an auction Darcie was bidding on an old trunk that was in the left-luggage lockers. Not knowing what was inside, she took a chance and finally was the winning bid. Upon opening the contents, she found a book that held sketches of beautiful gowns, a designer's book, along with a gorgeously designed gown that very well have been made by Coco Chanel. It oozed sophistication! Having no label, the gown became a "curiosity" for Darcie. But who was Nathalie Leroux and what were the squiggles on the bottom of the page? As we read along, we go deeper into the story of Nathalie during the war years and Darcie now in 2022 with a mystery to solve.
The book was engaging and hard to put down. Well researched and well written. as a reader I couldn't wait to find out and eager to see the mystery solved. My thanks to NetGalley and Embla Books for this ARC in exchange for an honest opinion. Five stars from me!!
In 2022 Darcie Marchant owned a vintage clothing shop in West Sussex, England. At an auction Darcie was bidding on an old trunk that was in the left-luggage lockers. Not knowing what was inside, she took a chance and finally was the winning bid. Upon opening the contents, she found a book that held sketches of beautiful gowns, a designer's book, along with a gorgeously designed gown that very well have been made by Coco Chanel. It oozed sophistication! Having no label, the gown became a "curiosity" for Darcie. But who was Nathalie Leroux and what were the squiggles on the bottom of the page? As we read along, we go deeper into the story of Nathalie during the war years and Darcie now in 2022 with a mystery to solve.
The book was engaging and hard to put down. Well researched and well written. as a reader I couldn't wait to find out and eager to see the mystery solved. My thanks to NetGalley and Embla Books for this ARC in exchange for an honest opinion. Five stars from me!!
May 23, 2023
BLURB:
When Darcie takes possession of an old suitcase abandoned in a railway station locker, she doesn't know what to expect.
Opening the stiff clasps, she discovers a beautiful silk evening dress for the 1940s, lovingly folded, and a notebook full of sketches. Written inside the cover is the name: Nathalie Leroux
Who was Nathalie? Why did she leave this at the station eighty years ago? And what stopped her from returning for it?
Darcie's quest for answers will draw her into the dangerous world of the French resistance as she works to uncover the truth about a devastating wartime secret.
But is Darcie prepared for what she will find? And for the power of Nathalie secrets to change her world forever...
MY REVIEW:
I love the idea of abandoned luggage or storage container auctions, and that is what drew me to this book.
I was intrigued that the main character would go looking for the owner of the suitcase that she had purchased, that she would be so inspired to do so, as I imagine not many people would be so generous.
I found this to be rather slow in places, but I was determined to find out what happened to Nathalie, so I persevered. I admit I guessed the outcome before it was revealed, but it was still a good read.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
When Darcie takes possession of an old suitcase abandoned in a railway station locker, she doesn't know what to expect.
Opening the stiff clasps, she discovers a beautiful silk evening dress for the 1940s, lovingly folded, and a notebook full of sketches. Written inside the cover is the name: Nathalie Leroux
Who was Nathalie? Why did she leave this at the station eighty years ago? And what stopped her from returning for it?
Darcie's quest for answers will draw her into the dangerous world of the French resistance as she works to uncover the truth about a devastating wartime secret.
But is Darcie prepared for what she will find? And for the power of Nathalie secrets to change her world forever...
MY REVIEW:
I love the idea of abandoned luggage or storage container auctions, and that is what drew me to this book.
I was intrigued that the main character would go looking for the owner of the suitcase that she had purchased, that she would be so inspired to do so, as I imagine not many people would be so generous.
I found this to be rather slow in places, but I was determined to find out what happened to Nathalie, so I persevered. I admit I guessed the outcome before it was revealed, but it was still a good read.
Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
March 3, 2024
"Threads of Courage: Unraveling Paris's War Stories Across Time"
"The Lost Dressmaker of Paris" by Suzanne Fortin is a historical fiction novel that intertwines the stories of two women, one during World War II and the other in the present day. While the novel offers an interesting premise and explores the resilience of women during wartime, it falls short in certain areas, earning it a 3-star rating. Here's a quick breakdown of the book's strengths and weaknesses:
Strengths:
- Dual timeline: The dual timeline keeps the story fresh and engaging, allowing readers to experience both the historical context of WWII and the present-day mystery.
- Vivid descriptions: The author paints a vivid picture of Paris, both during the war and in modern times.
- Themes of courage and resilience: The story highlights the courage and resilience of women during wartime.
Weaknesses:
- Predictable plot: The plot can be predictable at times, especially for readers familiar with WWII historical fiction.
- Uneven character development: While some characters are well-developed, others feel underdeveloped or one-dimensional.
Overall, "The Lost Dressmaker of Paris" is a decent read for fans of historical fiction, but it doesn't quite reach its full potential due to its predictable plot and uneven character development.
"The Lost Dressmaker of Paris" by Suzanne Fortin is a historical fiction novel that intertwines the stories of two women, one during World War II and the other in the present day. While the novel offers an interesting premise and explores the resilience of women during wartime, it falls short in certain areas, earning it a 3-star rating. Here's a quick breakdown of the book's strengths and weaknesses:
Strengths:
- Dual timeline: The dual timeline keeps the story fresh and engaging, allowing readers to experience both the historical context of WWII and the present-day mystery.
- Vivid descriptions: The author paints a vivid picture of Paris, both during the war and in modern times.
- Themes of courage and resilience: The story highlights the courage and resilience of women during wartime.
Weaknesses:
- Predictable plot: The plot can be predictable at times, especially for readers familiar with WWII historical fiction.
- Uneven character development: While some characters are well-developed, others feel underdeveloped or one-dimensional.
Overall, "The Lost Dressmaker of Paris" is a decent read for fans of historical fiction, but it doesn't quite reach its full potential due to its predictable plot and uneven character development.
May 22, 2024
An easy-read with dual timelines across modern day through to occupied Paris and Brittany in World War Two, as is commonly the popular method of writing within this genre. I'm a fan of dual timelines myself, as long as they feel realistic and favourable to the pace and plot of the story (in this case, I think the author achieved her goal!)
Darcie is a small business owner on a trip to Paris to discover more about a mysterious notebook and dress she bought at auction. There, she is (quite conveniently) approached by a handsome American stranger who insists she is photographed for his work. Together, they embark on a journey to discover the story behind Darcie's finds. Conversely, in wartime Paris, Nathalie is on a mission of her own - to avenge her brothers death at the hands of the Nazis. The women's stories do link well and I enjoyed the overall pace of the story. My only real gripe was that the relationship between Darcie and Matt, her handsome saviour, felt a little forced and almost too good to be true. The reader doesn't know much about Darcie's history, so this was an area I felt could have been explored more. I felt she was, in essence, a bit of a closed book. However, I felt Nathalie's character was well developed and I connected to her on a deeper level.
A pleasing read for fans of wartime fiction. I would read this author again.
Darcie is a small business owner on a trip to Paris to discover more about a mysterious notebook and dress she bought at auction. There, she is (quite conveniently) approached by a handsome American stranger who insists she is photographed for his work. Together, they embark on a journey to discover the story behind Darcie's finds. Conversely, in wartime Paris, Nathalie is on a mission of her own - to avenge her brothers death at the hands of the Nazis. The women's stories do link well and I enjoyed the overall pace of the story. My only real gripe was that the relationship between Darcie and Matt, her handsome saviour, felt a little forced and almost too good to be true. The reader doesn't know much about Darcie's history, so this was an area I felt could have been explored more. I felt she was, in essence, a bit of a closed book. However, I felt Nathalie's character was well developed and I connected to her on a deeper level.
A pleasing read for fans of wartime fiction. I would read this author again.
January 21, 2025
I thought I was a bit tired of World War II historical fiction, but this story was so unique I could hardly put the book down. I loved how the book was structured. There are two parallel timelines and stories that are also interconnected. The first story is about a young English woman, Darcie, who owns a Vintage Clothing Store. The second story is focused on Nathalie, a young French woman living in Paris with her family during the second World War during France's occupation. She works with her father in a tailor shop in Paris. Darcy buys an abandoned storage locker that she hopes will contain some items that may be sellable in her store. She finds a vintage finely made dress as well as a sketch book with lots of design sketches for dresses. She also finds a photo of Coco Chanel wearing what looks like the dress she obtains. She also finds a name in the storage box on a letter "Nathalie LeRoux". So the detective work begins on Darcy's part to find out more about this garment. She travels to Paris where she has an appointment at Chanel, and she also meets a young man, Marcel. The plot continues from there. No spoilers! I loved the themes of family, sacrifice, and patriotism in this book. Whenever I read stories about World War II, I get a profound feeling of gratitude and awe to the individuals who saved the world from Hitler.
August 2, 2023
What a fabulous dual timeline story of fashion, love & duplicity Suzanne Fortin has delivered!
Darcie Marchant, current day Sussex England, is a thoroughly modern day business woman with a deep & abiding love for her family and a penchant for all things 1940s, as can be seen in her shop, Vintaged and Loved.
Underwhelmed by the discovery of sweaty, old gym gear in the first of two unclaimed railway lockers, won at auction, Darcie is unprepared for the whirlwind that ensues when she opens a battered old suitcase to discover an exquisite evening dress & a designer's sketchbook/portfolio.
Nathalie Leroux, latterly a seamstress in her family's tailor shop in 1942 German occupied Paris, dreams of exacting revenge on the soldier who tore her family apart.
Now working in the Ritz, as part of the Resistance, Nathalie comes to the attention of famous designer/infamous German collaborator Coco Chanel. And her other dream of her designs being brought to life "in silks, velvets, cottons, organza" are within her grasp.
Can Darcie solve the riddle of the French woman's suitcase in an English left luggage locker? And can the city of love works its magic on her heart?
Darcie Marchant, current day Sussex England, is a thoroughly modern day business woman with a deep & abiding love for her family and a penchant for all things 1940s, as can be seen in her shop, Vintaged and Loved.
Underwhelmed by the discovery of sweaty, old gym gear in the first of two unclaimed railway lockers, won at auction, Darcie is unprepared for the whirlwind that ensues when she opens a battered old suitcase to discover an exquisite evening dress & a designer's sketchbook/portfolio.
Nathalie Leroux, latterly a seamstress in her family's tailor shop in 1942 German occupied Paris, dreams of exacting revenge on the soldier who tore her family apart.
Now working in the Ritz, as part of the Resistance, Nathalie comes to the attention of famous designer/infamous German collaborator Coco Chanel. And her other dream of her designs being brought to life "in silks, velvets, cottons, organza" are within her grasp.
Can Darcie solve the riddle of the French woman's suitcase in an English left luggage locker? And can the city of love works its magic on her heart?
June 13, 2024
The Lost Dressmaker of Paris is a dual timeline story, with the first timeline telling the story of Nathalie, living in France in 1944 during the Nazi occupation. When her family moves her to her aunt's farm in Brittany for safety, Nathalie meets and falls in love with a member of the resistance, who gets her a job at the Ritz where she can listen and pass on info. Nathalie dreams of being a dress designer so when she is working at the Ritz in Paris and encounters Coco Chanel, she is definitely star struck. The second timeline is that of present day in the UK, where vintage shop owner Darcie bids on a storage locker from an old train station and to her delight, she finds a sketch book and dress that appears to be haute couture. When she sees an old photo of Coco Chanel herself wearing a similar dress to the one she found, she contacts the House of Chanel for more information about the dress and sketchbook. There were a lot of plot twists and turns in this novel and although it did not have the happy ending that I love so much, it did come to a satisftying ending. I'm looking forward to reading more by this author.
July 11, 2023
would like to thank netgalley and the publishers for letting me read this amazing book
have to admit the dual part of this book will drive you insane as each time it changed to a different time it was always left on a cliff hanger.... very annoying
but the story is captivating about life in france during the occupation and how Nathalie Leroux a young woman with big plans for her future and how she helped the resistance...
and then theres darcie who wins an auction for items left in luggage lockers for years and she opens a small suitcase and finds a beautifully made dress and a book of designs and this leads back to a time during the war and Nathalie Leroux
the ending will bring a tear to your eyes... its well written and though the cliff hangers were annoying this book will have you at the edge of your seats
have to admit the dual part of this book will drive you insane as each time it changed to a different time it was always left on a cliff hanger.... very annoying
but the story is captivating about life in france during the occupation and how Nathalie Leroux a young woman with big plans for her future and how she helped the resistance...
and then theres darcie who wins an auction for items left in luggage lockers for years and she opens a small suitcase and finds a beautifully made dress and a book of designs and this leads back to a time during the war and Nathalie Leroux
the ending will bring a tear to your eyes... its well written and though the cliff hangers were annoying this book will have you at the edge of your seats
July 20, 2024
It’s a dual timeline novel about someone surviving during World War II and someone else discovering their story of bravery many years later. When it comes to World War II novels, this story has been told countless times. Other elements of the story have been written about many times as well such as the French Resistance Effort, Occupied Paris, and Coco Chanel. What takes this book up a notch is Nathalie, a French seamstress with ambitions to be a fashion designer who gets caught up in the resistance movement and Darcie, a vintage store owner trying to discover who created a beautiful evening gown that she acquired at auction. You are drawn into both Nathalie’s and Darcie’s stories. I couldn’t help rooting for them as they both struggle to make things right while at the same time falling in love. It’s worth reading.
July 9, 2025
✨️Audiobook review✨️ The Lost Dressmaker of Paris by Suzanne Fortin
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This book was really enjoyable. I very rarely read blurbs on books and generally pick a book by its cover (yeah yeah I know 🤣) but I like the fact that I go in blind as I have no preconceived ideas already.
Definitely a good read if you enjoy wartime history, and heroines who don't wear capes.
The way each character's story was throughout the book was perfect. I loved the dual POV, going from the MFC in wartime to the MFC character in modern day. The adventures and trials they come up against on the way to solving the story of Natalie are brilliant.
I did guess the 'bad guys' but it was implied, I didn't however guess the reasoning behind it, and I was surprised when I found it out. Always a bonus in a book in my opinion.
The narrator was great, not dull and very easy to listen to
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book was really enjoyable. I very rarely read blurbs on books and generally pick a book by its cover (yeah yeah I know 🤣) but I like the fact that I go in blind as I have no preconceived ideas already.
Definitely a good read if you enjoy wartime history, and heroines who don't wear capes.
The way each character's story was throughout the book was perfect. I loved the dual POV, going from the MFC in wartime to the MFC character in modern day. The adventures and trials they come up against on the way to solving the story of Natalie are brilliant.
I did guess the 'bad guys' but it was implied, I didn't however guess the reasoning behind it, and I was surprised when I found it out. Always a bonus in a book in my opinion.
The narrator was great, not dull and very easy to listen to
July 11, 2023
I loved this book !
From the beginning of discovering the suitcase I was completely hooked... This is a dual timeline story with Natalie in Paris in 1942 and Darcie in 2022. Each timeline had me gripped and I read the book in 2 days wanting to know the full story. It's a story of bravery, loyalty , love and family. I loved both of the main characters but was drawn more to Natalie and her bravery. I was moved in places and had a good cry at one point. Whenever I read any books like this, I have to remind myself that these things did happen and although it is a fictional story there were so many brave men and women that had to go through unspeakable times .
This is my first book that I have read by Suzanne and have discovered there are lots more that I will be reading. Can't wait!
From the beginning of discovering the suitcase I was completely hooked... This is a dual timeline story with Natalie in Paris in 1942 and Darcie in 2022. Each timeline had me gripped and I read the book in 2 days wanting to know the full story. It's a story of bravery, loyalty , love and family. I loved both of the main characters but was drawn more to Natalie and her bravery. I was moved in places and had a good cry at one point. Whenever I read any books like this, I have to remind myself that these things did happen and although it is a fictional story there were so many brave men and women that had to go through unspeakable times .
This is my first book that I have read by Suzanne and have discovered there are lots more that I will be reading. Can't wait!
July 11, 2023
I received an ARC in return for an honest review of this book. I enjoyed this book very much and could not put it down. The dual timeline felt like two stories at the same time as being one story. It kept me trying to anticipate where events would lead to connect the two timelines. The author’s writing gave enough detail that I felt I understood the characters and settings but not too much as slow down the reading process. Despite this being another historical fiction novel set during the world war 2 it didn’t feel redundant of other books because of how the dual time lines and plot events played out. This was enjoyable to read. I would recommend this book for any who enjoy dual timelines, strong female characters, or world war 2 novels.
February 1, 2024
A very intriguing story
Darcie buys an old suitcase at auction; the case containing a silk evening dress and a sketchbook, had been discovered in a left luggage locker of a small railway station in West Sussex; the only clue was the name of Nathalie Leroux.
Determined to discover the history of the suitcase and its owner, Darcie heads to Paris, and becomes embroiled in a mystery going back to World War Two, the Resistance, and the world of high fashion.
Moving effortlessly between the present day, and 1942, this extremely heart-wrenching dual timeline uncovers long held secrets, betrayal, the heroism of the people during the war, and the power of true love.
This is well written and researched story which I have no hesitation in recommending.
Darcie buys an old suitcase at auction; the case containing a silk evening dress and a sketchbook, had been discovered in a left luggage locker of a small railway station in West Sussex; the only clue was the name of Nathalie Leroux.
Determined to discover the history of the suitcase and its owner, Darcie heads to Paris, and becomes embroiled in a mystery going back to World War Two, the Resistance, and the world of high fashion.
Moving effortlessly between the present day, and 1942, this extremely heart-wrenching dual timeline uncovers long held secrets, betrayal, the heroism of the people during the war, and the power of true love.
This is well written and researched story which I have no hesitation in recommending.
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