Paris Seamstress: Transporting, Twisting, the Most Heartbreaking Novel You'll Read This Year

The Paris Seamstress is a novel that follows the story of Estella Bissette, a Parisian seamstress who is forced to flee France in 1940 and ends up in Manhattan with a dream of having her own atelier. In 2015, Australian curator Fabienne Bissette discovers her grandmother's past and uncovers a story of tragedy, heartbreak, and secrets. The book has received praise for its fascinating and impeccably researched story, and its characters are described as bold, brave, and captivating.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 448 pages
Publication date: 04 October 2018
Publisher: Little, Brown Book Group

The French Photographer: An Intriguing Tale of Love, Sacrifice, and Fashion

In the captivating novel "The French Photographer," Natasha Lester takes readers on a mesmerizing journey across time and continents, weaving a tale of love, sacrifice, and fashion that will leave readers spellbound. Set against the backdrop of 1940s Paris and 2015 New York, the story follows the lives of two women, Estella Bissette and Fabienne Bissette, who are connected by a shared legacy and a passion for fashion.

Estella, a talented Parisian seamstress, is forced to flee her homeland as the Germans advance, carrying with her a suitcase filled with her sewing machine and a dream of owning her atelier. She arrives in Manhattan with a few francs and a determination to make a new life for herself. However, her journey is not without its challenges. She must navigate the unfamiliar city, find work, and build a new identity.

Meanwhile, in 2015, Fabienne Bissette, an Australian curator, travels to the annual Met Gala for an exhibition of her beloved grandmother's work. Fabienne is fascinated by her grandmother's life and career, and as she delves deeper into her past, she uncovers a story of tragedy, heartbreak, and secrets. She learns that her grandmother, Estella, was a world-renowned designer of ready-to-wear, but her success came at a great cost.

Through their shared experiences, Fabienne and Estella discover the sacrifices that women have made throughout history in pursuit of their dreams. They learn about the struggles and hardships that they faced, the sacrifices they made for love, and the price they paid for success.

"The French Photographer" is a beautifully written novel that explores the complexities of human relationships, the power of fashion, and the enduring legacy of sacrifice. Natasha Lester's writing is elegant and evocative, drawing readers into the lives of her characters and immersing them in the world of 1940s Paris and 2015 New York.

The characters in "The French Photographer" are well-developed and relatable, with their flaws, strengths, and vulnerabilities. Estella is a strong-willed woman who has faced adversity with courage and determination. Fabienne, on the other hand, is a modern woman who is grappling with her own demons and struggles to connect with her family and her heritage.

The novel also delves into the social and cultural changes that have taken place over the generations. It explores the role of women in society, the pressures of fame and success, and the impact of war on individuals and communities.

"The French Photographer" is a captivating and emotional story that will leave readers pondering the sacrifices that they have made in their own lives and the legacy that they will leave behind. It is a testament to the power of love, the resilience of the human spirit, and the enduring impact of fashion.

In conclusion, "The French Photographer" is a must-read novel for anyone who loves historical fiction, fashion, and the complexities of human relationships. Natasha Lester's writing is exquisite, and her characters are unforgettable. This is a story that will stay with you long after you have turned the last page.

Weight: 308g
Dimension: 170 x 131 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780751573077