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.

I received a free e-arc of this book through Netgalley.
I started off college as a Fashion Design major so I definitely wanted to read this book about Astrid Bricard, as a new fashion student setting the world ablaze in a world dominated by male designers. Unfortunately things don't work out like we hope. This goes between 3 generations of women in Astrid's family who are entwined with fashion and dealing with being a woman in male-controlled careers.

Oh my goodness but I absolutely loved this one! I found this to be a fantastic tale full of a ton of insightful and on point statements about the role of women in business / fashion, as well as a really lovely story about families and misunderstandings (intentional and un) and love and the price we so often pay for being true to ourselves. Lester has done a really fantastic job crafting characters who are whole and real and engaging and full of flaws and setting them loose in a landscape that is just fascinating. I did not know of the Battle of Versailles prior to this, but I'm definitely interested in looking up more and the Givhan book is on my short list of things to read next as a result.. This was a fascinating and really well written tale that engaged me from the opening pages. I loved it!

This book was phenomenal! It captures the full essence of the fashion industry for the 1940s to the present time. Unfortunately women designers always took a backseat to men designers, but their impact has been felt throughout the entire time. Based on many facts the story and characters are unforgettable.

Thank you to NetGalley for the copy of this novel!
Most of the big names in fashion design are men, despite the clothes being intended for a female consumer. This novel takes a look at the inequities in the fashion world, spanning across three generations, and puts a mystery at the forefront. I loved this novel, despite knowing next to nothing about fashion design, and I loved how it broke down what it means to be a woman, not just in the fashion world, but in the world in general. I'm buying a physical copy to keep on my shelf, and I'm buying copies as gifts for some of the women in my life. I can't wait to read more by Natasha Lester.

Lester's newest follows three generations of the Bricard family -- one once the muse for Dior, another a rising disco era fashion star who disappears after a famous show, and her daughter left to solve the mystery and leave her own stamp on the design world. An elegant, intriguing tale!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced readers copy of 'The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard' by Natasha Lester.

5/5 stars from me for Natasha Lester's upcoming release. If you loved her last novel - 'The Three Lives of Alix St. Pierre' - you will definitely enjoy this.

'The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard' explores the struggle women have faced to have their artistry and contribution to the fashion industry recognised since WW1. It examines how women have been diminished as the muse of a celebrated male designer rather than as a designer in their own right. Lester's novel shows how the toxic nature of media and gossip can tarnish the reputation of multiple generations of women and affect their mental health and relationships. At its heart this novel is a love story between characters Astrid Bricard and Hawk Jones and a mystery as Astrid's daughter Blythe seeks to find answers to explain her mother's infamous disappearance.

I typically love this kind of historical fiction. Parts of it reminded me of a Fiona Davis book. The story line was great. It was relevant, had some intrigued and I definitely wanted to know what happen. The biggest problem I had with this book was it was too long. It dragged in the middle. I kept thinking let’s get on with this. I also didn’t love the end of the story.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an early release.

My first book by Natasha Lester, and it definitely won't be my last!

I love historical fiction that makes me forget it's historical fiction (if that makes any sense). I love a story that sweeps me up into the life of the characters and the intrigue. This book had me hooked from the first chapter. I read this in less than 48 hours.

If you love female generational stories, if you love fashion, if you are aware of lack of gender equality... you need to read this book. This story tells the tale of three women in the fashion industry, who are determined to make their mark, change the industry and prove that they not only deserved a seat at the table, they should be at the head of the table! The story begins with Astrid disappearing at Versailles designer show in 1973 and all that remains is her dress. You then dive into the complex family dynamics of Astrid and her iconic mother Mizza and is her granddaughter, Blythe Bricard.

There are some great twists and some fun characters that make an appearance that you will recognize from the fashion industry. Such a fun read!!!! Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book!

The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard was my introduction to Natasha Lester's books, but it definitely won't be my last one! A timely riveting read that exposes the double standards of women's fashion where men control the industry and the writing of history.

Focusing on three generations of strong, talented women who dare to be fashion designers at the highest levels, Ms Lester brings to life fashion designing. The story of Mizza, Astrid and Blyth Bricard is woven into the fabric of the fashion industry from the deprivation and intrigue of WW2 in Paris through the "Youthquake" of the '60s and '70s to this century (ending shortly before the "Me Too" movement). The constant binding the generations is how women's contributions are denied by the men in power and the penalties paid by the women who buck the system.

Overall I loved reading The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard. My only disappointment in the book was the ending, which wrapped up too neatly and too quickly considering the complexity of the rest of the story.

My thanks to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for the advance copy. I've added Natasha Lester to my list of favorite authors.

This was a wonderful book written about Mizza Bricard, a fashion designer that worked with Christian Dior. After reading the author’s notes I realized how much fact was woven into the story. Although she took certain liberties to create a compelling story, it is incredibly informative and provides a shocking view of the fashion industry and how misogynistic it was (still is?). All three of the main female characters were so talented but faced constant challenges to be recognized. The result leads to much suffering and pain. I enjoyed the inclusion of the social and political climate in New York and Paris during the time period from the 1040’s to the present. This book has something for everyone - love, family drama, history, war, fashion.

Thank you to NetGalley and Forever for the ARC.

Men tell the stories that make up history, but we are the ones who choose whether to believe them or not. Or, as Natasha Lester puts it, “Don’t you ever want to reach into the internet and pull a woman out of the story she’s been written into?”

In her latest novel, The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard, the author explores media, myth, and the consequences of both on the lives of three women spanning three generations of the same family. Mizza, Astrid, and Blythe Bricard are famous- many would say infamous- names in the fashion world. But are the stories told about them true? More importantly, are the stories they told themselves true?

This was an engrossing look into a troubled family, torn apart by generational trauma and lack of communication. It was also a look into the glamorous, but sometimes dark world of high fashion. I tore through it in less than twenty-four hours.

The author handled the jumps between three different timelines smoothly, the main characters were sympathetic even when you wanted to shake them for the terrible decisions they made, and the reasonably short chapters that sometimes had mini-cliffhangers at the end kept the action moving. The very thorough Author’s Note was also good reading.

My single issue with this book was the sappy, simplistic, too-too-perfect ending. After the messy complexity of the relationships throughout the book, it was jarring and amateurish.

Otherwise, I enjoyed the book, rate it a solid four stars, and recommend it to all historical fiction fans.