This book was a very interesting look into the fashion world. This was my first book by Natasha Lester and I look forward to reading some of her other books. I would recommend this book to other historical fiction fans.

Three generations of Bricard women invovled in the fashion world . Each must deal with the dismissal of their talent and the misogyny in the world of fashion. The women must also deal with the misconceptions that have been printed in the press.
Fascinating read - highly recommend.
#TheDisappearanceofAstridBricard #NetGalley

I can appreciate the effort author Natasha Lester put into this book but in my opinion the focus should have been on Mizza Bricard and her INCREDIBLE life before, during, and after WWII, instead of creating a daughter and granddaughter for her and only telling her story as an aside. Nothing Astrid or Blythe did measures up to the greatness of Mizza. Even Astrid's disappearance is almost an afterthought to the story. The bulk of the narrative for both Astrid and Blythe is essentially how unfair the world of fashion design is to women and that lousy men can kiss a woman's neck so well you keep falling for them. Even Velvet's story as an African-American woman in fashion at the time peaked my interest far more than the main two characters. Additionally, I felt the conclusion was lacking in merit for both characters and there was "closure" to relationships where none was warranted.

This is easily one of my favorite books and top picks of the year. I was lucky enough to receive an early copy of it to review and I cannot describe how wonderful it is in words! It gave me serious Daisy Jones and the Six vibes as it is similar in the setting through Astrid's story. It is told in three alternating voices and timelines, but a large portion of it takes place in the 1970's. In short, it is about Astrid Bricard, who was a fashion icon in that she was an American designer who was the "it girl" of the time. She is the daughter of legendary Mizza Bricard, who was Christian Dior's muse around the WWII era. Astrid mysteriously disappears during the Battle of Versailles when six American Fashion Moguls compete against six French Designers for "best in the world." Blythe, Astrid's daughter and Mizza's Granddaughter, is the third voice in the story and she holds what remains of her fashion icon lineage as she is in the industry as well. Not only is this novel written beautifully, but it tells a fascinating story through three strong women who each struggle to persevere in the fashion industry as a result of their gender. The timelines of this story interweave beautifully and unfold in the most fascinating storytelling I have read in a long time. Reading the Author's Note at the end was the icing on the cake. Bravo, Ms. Lester....I cannot wait to share this with MANY who I am sure will enjoy it as much as I did!

Lovely read! Enjoyed the multi plot story line with the 3 women and two their lives intertwined. As usual Natasha Lester surprises with a beautiful read! A bit different than her usual books and historical fiction, I enjoyed this one as well. Thank you for the ARC, enjoyed this summer read!

There are some books which are so powerful they leave an indelible impression on your heart. The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard is one of those books. On one level, The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard is the story of the fashion industry and the misogyny, repression and dominance of men over women. Told from the points of view of three generations of brilliant female designers, it details the struggles of each one of them to get the recognition they deserve as themselves, rather than as the "muse" of a male designer or fashion house. Their battle is not only with those in haute couture, but also with the so called journalists who cover fashion. Although fiction, some of the characters are based on real people (don't miss reading the terrific notes at the end of the book).

This book grabbed me from the first page and didn't let go. What happened to Astrid Bricard? Who are her parents? Why did she abandon her family, particularly her daughter? Who is Mizza? The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard is truly an amazing book, one you'll want to read again so you can find what you missed the first time around. If I could give it 10 stars, I would! I've read and enjoyed Natasha Lester's books before, but this one is absolutely the best!

The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard is an absolute showstopper of a novel! Three exciting timelines, three incredible female protagonists, beautiful writing, heartbreak, and love, and drama, drama, drama. I didn't want it to end, everrrrrr!!!!!! But when I reached the last page, as I've done with each of Lester's novels, I had to sit in silence for a while, just marveling at the sheer talent of this author. Highly recommend!!! Brava!!!!!

The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard by Natasha Lester tells the story of 3 female fashion designers. Based on Mizza Bricard a fashion designer for Dior. Her daughter, Astrid Bricard, who disappeared during a true fashion event at the palace of Versailles in 1973. Her character is based on Anne Klein. Her daughter, Blythe Bricard a designer in the 1990s. A well researched and written book. There are a lot of elements to this story. The main ones are the press and their portrayals of events and people. Also, how women designers are/were treated by their male counterparts. I highly recommend this book and would be interested in reading her other books. Thank you to NetGallery and Forever publishing for letting me review this book in exchange for an honest opinion.

This story follows three generations of Bricard women, marginalized as muses or inspirations, rather than the fashion designers and businesspeople that they are. Spanning a large part of the 20th century, the story encapsulates how women in the fashion world have been degraded and victims of corruption and exclusivity.

The portrayal of real life and fictional people is admirable and evidence good research. This story has something for everyone, romance, intrigue, mystery and grit.

This is such a powerful story of the plight of women. The author weaves in references to Hamlet and the Bayeux Tapestry and paints them in a light I’ve never contemplated before. The author takes great pains to highlight the many falsehoods told about women to get a headline and sell newspapers and magazines irrespective of the harm that it does.

Since I read an ARC, I can’t quote from the story but, I highlighted many passages that left an impression. This was my first book by this author, it won’t be my last.

Thanks you NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

4.5 stars.

Thank you NetGalley and FOREVER (GRAND CENTRAL PUBLISHING) for the eARC in return for my honest opinions.

Release date: September 7, 2023.

Historical romance is one of my go to comfort books. I just so thoroughly enjoyed this one. I loved how the author combined real life characters with fictional ones. The disappearance of Astrid Bricard was intriguing and totally factual. I also enjoyed the romance and meticulous details related to the popular high fashion houses during this time period.

Thoroughly enjoyed the book.

Recommend.

I enjoyed this book. The flashiness of the '70's, the wartime history and the transition to contemporary times was enthralling.

I had to sit on my review for awhile, not because I didn’t like the book, but because I had to make sure I didn’t base my review on the behavior of the characters, (which showed me the book really worked). I became so invested in their lives and behaviors I wanted to make sure I wasn’t critiquing the characters actions instead of the authors plot and writing style. Once I picked the book up I was drawn back into the world of the 70’s and the garment district. Our entire extended family was a part of this, owning businesses, fabric houses and my Mom worked for Anne Klein so I loved revisiting those years in my life. I think Lester did an excellent job with research, not only depicting the 70’s accurately, how hard it was for a woman, and how egotistical the men were, but WW2, and the aftermath of the war in Paris. I loved reading about the European/ American battle of the fashions, and was enraged with the writer of WWD, especially when I learned he was a real character.
I had a love hate relationship with Astrid, her ego, and what she did with her child, yet she was fascinating to read, although her logic totally escapes me. . Her mom, the great Mizza is even more of a fascinating character especially as we are learn her backstory.
All in all a book well worth the read, maybe even twice to pick up the details missed the first time around.

I will absolutely read anything Natasha Lester writes. She writes historical fiction so well! This one was no different. This book was about three generations of women in fashion fighting with public perception, sexism against women and trying to do what they thought was right for their families. There was also an epic love story between Hawk & Astrid. Not only is this historical fiction, there’s some romance and then an intertwined mystery element about Astrid’s disappearance. This is one you won’t want to miss.

Thank you NetGalley for eARC in exchange for an honest review.

Natasha Lester's "The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard" takes readers on a mesmerizing journey through time and secrets, skillfully weaving together a story that transports you.

The characters in the book are well-drawn and relatable, each carrying their own burdens and secrets. Astrid's courage and vulnerability bring depth to her historical narrative. The relationships between the characters - whether friendships, romances, or family ties - are explored with nuance and authenticity, adding an emotional layer to the unfolding mystery.

"The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard" is a celebration of art's ability to transcend time and connect souls across generations. Through its exploration of history, love, and the secrets that bind us, the novel invites readers to contemplate the enduring power of creativity and the hidden stories that shape our lives. If you're drawn to tales that blend mystery, history, and a touch of romance, Lester's novel offers a satisfying and captivating reading experience.

Thanks to Forever (Grand Central Publishing) and Netgalley for an advance copy in exchange for an honest review!

Mizza, Astrid, and Blythe. The Bricard women are infamous in the media, but all are incredibly talented and often misunderstood. Generation after generation women in fashion are belittled, cast aside and made to be invisible despite their immense contributions to the industry. Most seem only to gain success as a model regardless of their pedigree from FIT or Parsons.

Mizza fought for respect during World War II. When most of her neighbors labeled her a “collabo” for making dresses for Nazis officers’ girlfriends, they had little idea of the resistance work she was actually doing. Coming from nothing, she fought for her place in the House of Dior, and still was considered a muse rather than a creator.

Astrid’s rising star was downplayed by her relationship with fellow fashion designer Hawk Jones in the 1970s. Many of her creations were misquoted in the media as his, and one particular reporter from Women’s Wear Daily made it is job to destroy her budding career. Even after being given a part of an exhibition show in Versailles, it was still attributed to her relationship with Hawk.

Blythe’s upbringing was no walk in the park being Astrid’s daughter, and Mizza’s granddaughter. Even initially pursuing a degree in chemistry doesn’t stop the media and taunting men from believing she is nothing but a tramp. Like her mother and grandmother, she has a gift for fashion, but also a deep-rooted fear that she will not be given a fair chance.

Institutional sexism is nothing new in fashion or any industry, consistently devaluing women’s contributions and limiting their power. What the Bricard women face is shameful. The media has such a hold on their lives that it affects their decisions, ultimately affecting the course of each woman’s relationship with the other. Natasha Lester’s care with research is obvious in this novel. Mizza, Astrid, and Blythe’s journeys were all interesting. The alternating chapter structure made this one hard to put down.

Thank you to NetGalley, Forever (Grand Central Publishing), and of course the author Natasha Lester for the advanced copy of the book. The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard comes out January 30, 2024. All opinions are my own.

4.5 stars. As always, I love everything Natasha Lester writes! The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard is no exception. This book was full of mystery, beautifully written relationships, and a dedication to independence.

The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard is told across three generations. Present day, Blythe Bricard - trying to repair her broken heart and break the "muse" curse while chasing her dreams. 1970, Astrid Bricard - determined to impact the fashion world by carving her own path and navigating being defined as the muse of Hawk Jones. 1917, Mizza Bricard - carving a life in the world and fashion scene after losing her parents at a time when women didn't have a lot of choices. All 3 women linked together by the Bricard legacy and the mystery of Astrid's disappearance in the 70s.

Fantastic storytelling and I love her passion for fashion shining through! Thanks to #Netgally, Natasha Lester, and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the e-ARC of #TheDisapperanceofAstridBricard in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed reading this one.

In France, Blythe Bricard, daughter of two major fashion names, has given up her fashion dreams. But, that is only because she doesn’t know the real stories of her mother or grandmother. Finding out their secrets will be shocking and may lead to a new life.

In 1970 New York, Astrid is out to change the fashion world. First as inspiration to designer, Hawk Jones. But Astrid doesn’t want to be anyone’s muse. She is a designer and wants her own name on designs. And she has a plan to compete with the big boys to win a showcase.

But life intervenes and Astrid never shows up. Vanishes. Leaving behind a white silk dress behind.

Going back to 1917, when a teenaged Mizza Bridard is making a name for herself on her own terms.

What a beautiful and sad story this was. It is still a real struggle to achieve a place in that life. That is sad.

NetGalley/ Grand Central Publishing, January 30, 2024

3.6. A very interesting historical novel focusing on the haute couture fashion industry from the early 20th century to current times. The novel focuses on three generations of ambitious, creative women, ironically all involved in fashion design even though the parent was generally not involved in the upbringing of the child, for various reasons. An eye opening expose in my view on the misogyny, sexism and make domination of the fashion world. Two of the three characters are imaginary but one is real, Mizza Bricard, who worked closely with Christian Dior and others in first half of the 20th century. I thought the novel was a bit too long and mildly contrived but engaging

Riveting! I loved reading The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard, a brilliantly crafted, meticulously researched, 3-timeline novel by Australian author Natasha Lester! The story kept me eagerly turning pages while also providing a wealth of fascinating information. Moreover, this book showcases the double standards and other extraordinary challenges faced by women in the fashion industry. Kudos to Lester for once again portraying strong, talented and independent women. It was also great fun to encounter again Alix St. Pierre, the protagonist of Lester’s last novel.

I’ve read and thoroughly enjoyed all of Ms. Lester’s prior historical novels published in the United States. Highly recommended to fans of Lester’s prior historicals and other intelligent, superbly written historical fiction.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the privilege of a complimentary ARC. Opinions are my own. .

The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard is an engaging story. Highly recommend. I'm giving this one five stars. Told in different generations,

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced digital copy.