Paris Never Leaves You by Ellen Feldman

Paris Never Leaves You is a masterful exploration of survival, love, and the enduring impact of the past. The novel alternates between wartime Paris and 1950s New York, following Charlotte and her daughter Vivi as they navigate the complexities of life after the war. Charlotte's experiences in a Paris bookstore during the war highlight her strength and resilience, while her later life in New York's publishing scene adds depth to her character. The story delves into the emotional and psychological scars left by war, showing how the past never truly fades. /n/n Ellen Feldman's novel is a poignant and engaging read, praised for its emotional depth and historical detail. It's a story that will stay with readers long after the final page, offering a profound look at the human spirit's capacity for endurance and love. The novel's setting in both war-torn Paris and the bustling publishing world of New York adds a rich layer of historical context, making it a compelling read for fans of historical fiction.

Reviews

Ruth Hull Chatlien Books · 2022-02-13

solid 4.00

The book is a solid 4-star read, with compelling characters and a quick-paced narrative. Some relationships feel a bit implausible but are engaging enough to keep reading.

This book is a solid 4-star read, offering a quick-paced narrative that keeps you engaged from start to finish. The characters are conflicted and damaged survivors of WWII, making their journeys both compelling and emotionally resonant. While not all relationships feel completely authentic, they are plausible enough to keep you invested in the story. The setting in occupied Paris adds a rich historical backdrop, enhancing the overall reading experience. The book explores themes of resilience and the cost of survival, making it a thought-provoking and enjoyable read.

Quick quotes

For me, the book is a solid 4-star read.

The characters are conflicted and damaged survivors of WWII, making their journeys both compelling and emotionally resonant.

The setting in occupied Paris adds a rich historical backdrop, enhancing the overall reading experience.

The Lit Bitch · 2020-08-05

extraordinary 4.50

The narrative is extraordinary, exploring themes of resilience, love, and the cost of survival. The story is both emotionally immersive and thought-provoking.

This book is an extraordinary exploration of resilience, love, and the impossible choices one has to make during wartime. The protagonist's journey is filled with emotional depth and complexity, making it a compelling read. The story is both heart-wrenching and hopeful, as it delves into the moral conundrums and the price one pays for their choices. The narrative is emotionally immersive, making it feel as if you are witnessing history as it unfolds. The characters are well-crafted, and their struggles are depicted with sensitivity, making the story both engaging and thought-provoking.

Quick quotes

Paris Never Leaves You is an extraordinary story of resilience, love, and impossible choices, exploring how survival never comes without a cost.

The narrative is emotionally immersive, making it feel as if you are witnessing history as it unfolds.

The characters are well-crafted, and their struggles are depicted with sensitivity.

Reading Ladies · 2020-08-04

heartfelt 4.00

The story is heartfelt and recommended for fans of WWII historical fiction with a touch of romance. The characters are complex and their journeys are compelling.

This book is a deeply moving tale that captures the essence of resilience and love amidst the backdrop of WWII. The protagonist's choices and the consequences that follow are explored with nuance, making it a compelling read. The blend of historical fiction and romance adds layers to the narrative, making it a great choice for those who enjoy stories that intertwine personal struggles with broader historical contexts. The characters are well-developed, and their emotional journeys are depicted with sensitivity, making the story both engaging and thought-provoking.

Quick quotes

Paris Never Leaves You is a heartfelt story and I recommend it for fans of WW11 historical fiction who also enjoy a side of romance.

The characters are complex and their journeys are compelling.

The blend of historical fiction and romance adds layers to the narrative.

Appears in Lists

50 Best Books About WW2 For World Travelers