I’ll be honest: this book had me at the theater. I always like finding unique settings in historical fiction novels, and this one certainly qualifies.
I loved how the author set everything up. The connections between characters were tenuous and not easily discernable, adding a bit of mystery. The backstory unfolds slowly, which adds to the tension that is already felt through the setting.
I think that there must have been copious amounts of research because the author captured the essence of theater. Having been in theater myself, I could picture the costumes and stage area, and I could practically smell the aroma that all backstage areas seem to share. Sweat, makeup, perfume, and grease (among others) all combine into a scent that is uniquely “theater.”
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Not only was the general theatrical atmosphere accurate, but the author also managed to balance the ominous presence of the Nazis against the magic of the theater. It was an interesting juxtaposition that gave those scenes depth.
As to the plot itself, has everything a good read should have. There’s intrigue, espionage, romance, and…oh yeah, don’t forget the Nazis. A stunning singer with a hidden past and her dashing manager (who is not what he seems) are the stars, but the secondary characters have just as much depth. And everyone has secrets.
I did think that the plot sagged a bit after the initial introductions and set-up. There were still important points, but the drive forward slowed. Fortunately, it sped up quickly, and the last third of the book was nonstop action. I’m not going to spoil the plot, but let’s just say that it was all very movie-worthy.
Ultimately, I really enjoyed this book and appreciated the author’s attention to detail. She really created theatrical Paris in the last stages of the Nazi occupation, and made me care what happened to the characters.
AUTHOR BIO
Karen Robards is the New York Times, USA TODAY and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of more than fifty novels and one novella. She is the winner of six Silver Pen awards and numerous other awards.
TWITTER: @TheKarenRobards
FB: @AuthorKarenRobards
Thanks for stopping by for the second entry in the HTP 2020 Summer Reads Blog Tour for Historical Fiction. Check back in later this month for The Woman Before Wallis.
