Absolutely loved this book. The cover drew me in, and it was all uphill from there. Gave me The Seven Husband's of Evelyn Hugo vibes but a totally different storyline, and characters. Still the same feelings -inequality for women in every industry, being unable to love who you want without sacrificing your career, double standards etc.
Told from the point of view of three generations of Bricard women over the span of several decades.

I am so excited for others to read this new novel by Lester! The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard is written about three generations of strong women who impacted the world of fashion. Each woman has their own story and secrets all of which are pieced together as Lester go between women throughout the chapters. Very captivating! Great storyline and well developed characters! A must read for anyone who enjoys historical fiction!

NetGalley allowed me to read this title for two days. This story covers a lot - history, fashion, human relations, women's rights, war, families and more. I was unable to put it down, read until 4 AM! Highly recommended.

Thank you NetGalley and FOREVER (GRAND CENTRAL PUBLISHING) for the eARC.
This is an amazing book, so well written and researched, with a story based on history with some real characters and some imagined. It takes place in 3 timelines, with 3 fascinating women and is set in the world of fashion.
Not familiar with that world, I was aghast at the way women were treated, as well as the viciousness of some of the top designers. Strange that most of the workers in the industry are women, the people wearing the clothing are mostly women and yet it's the men who rule the roost. It's truly a fascinating look at the world of fashion.
Highly recommended!

The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard by Natasha Lester has all the hallmarks of a great story with the added benefit of learning about other places and times and women’s place in history.

We begin with the central mystery of what happened to Astrid Bricard who disappeared at the 1973 Versailles competition between French and American designers. Although this is a novel, many of the subplots are rooted in actual events. We move from Paris during the two world wars to the disco age in New York City in the seventies to the present day strife of third generation fashion designer, Blythe Bricard.

I was completely engrossed in the challenges that each MC faced as well as curious about the reason Astrid vanished.

Meticulously researched, it was great fun to visit the times of Balanciaga, Dior, and Halston. But, there is also the theme of how women are often scapegoats and rewritten as parenthetical figures in history. They are often the geniuses behind men. or, as the novel describes, “Ophelia dies and Hamlet rules.”

This was a most satisfying read with a fabulous and victorious ending. The book will appeal to fans of fashion design, historical fiction, and women’s fiction. Definitely 5 stars.

Natasha Lester has once again captivated my heart and mind with her latest novel. As a burgeoning fan, I eagerly delved into the pages of this mesmerizing crime mystery, and I found myself completely consumed by the multiple points of view that created an exquisite tension.

With each turn of the page, I was transported to both the past and the present, entangled in a web of suspense that left me breathless. Lester's masterful storytelling ignited a whirlwind of emotions within me, and I found myself unable to tear myself away from the gripping narrative.

The seamless blend of past and present painted a vivid tapestry of intrigue and danger, weaving together the lives of characters who quickly became like old friends. Their hopes, dreams, and fears leapt off the page, enveloping me in a flurry of emotions that ranged from anticipation to heartache.

Lester's ability to evoke such intense emotions through her simple yet powerful prose is nothing short of extraordinary. Her words have the uncanny ability to transport readers to a world where dreams and nightmares intertwine, where the line between good and evil blurs, and where every twist and turn holds the promise of a revelation.

This book, with its thrilling combination of mystery and suspense, is a true gem that satisfies every craving I have as a reader. It is a literary feast for the senses, nourishing my imagination and leaving me hungry for more. I am now an ardent admirer of Natasha Lester, eagerly awaiting her next masterpiece.

In conclusion, if you are searching for a book that will whisk you away on an exhilarating journey, filled with gripping suspense and unforgettable characters, then look no further. Lester's latest creation is a triumph that will leave you yearning for more, long after you have reluctantly turned the final page.

Natasha Lester does it again. Her love for all things fashion and family shows in her latest novel The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard. Her research is top notch making me want to know more. Love how she brings back a character from a previous novel too - such a treat to come across an old friend! Highly recommend Natasha to anyone who loves historical fiction, fashion & family with a twist.

The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard by Natasha Lester is a great historical fiction that has plenty of mystery, suspense, and drama as well.

I have enjoyed several books by Ms. Lester, and this one is no exception. Told through multiple narratives/viewpoints, this one kept me interested from beginning to end with strong female characters that were complex and intriguing.

Definitely enjoyed.

4/5 stars

Thank you NG and Forever (Grand Central Publishing) for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 1/30/24.

Thanks to NetGalley and Forever (Grand Central) for the opportunity to read The Disappearance of Astrid Bricard by Natasha Lester. No one writes better Historical Fiction than Ms. Lester. As usual, her work has sent me back down another rabbit hole to learn more, this time about the Bricard women.

The perfect family mystery spanning generations that is revealed slowly in a tantalizing, satisfying way. I couldn't put it down and recommend it to all historical fiction fans for its brilliant plot, excellent writing, and its superb portrayal of a woman wanting to make her own imprint on the world. A plus for the wonderful descriptions of the fashion world as well! Really enjoyed this one!