Member Reviews
Such a fabulous and immersive story! Rich in historical detail and suspense, this story drew me in from the beginning. I-will be seeking more of this author’s work.
Many thanks to Harlequin and to Netgalley for providing me with a galley in exchange for my honest opinion.
Another heartbreaking book about Paris during the Nazi occupation. I am always amazed at the strength and resilience of people, especially women, during this horrific time. I thought the Camille and Rachel characters were well plotted and rang true with all I have previously read about this time period. I would have liked a little more time with Vivian to really get to know her backstory and her life. Having stayed at the Ritz, this book was a little more extra special to me. I can just imagine the ghosts of Camille, Rachel, and Vivian walking its sumptuous halls and whispering to guests now. I’d recommend this for someone wanting to know more about WWII in Paris and how regular people stood up to evil.
The Paris Housekeeper kept me turning pages following three very different women whose circumstances made their experiences so different and interesting. When Paris falls to the Nazis in WW2 the German occupation it created many heart wrenching choices for simple survival, opportunities for both sacrifice and betrayal, risk and redemption. The story is well written, poignant, sad and haunting.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harlequin Publishing for the opportunity to read for my honest review.
Three women, one goal: Survival in German-occupied Paris in 1942. One is an American heiress, one is a housekeeper at the famed Ritz hotel, and one is a Parisian Jew. When their lives intersect and they are forced to rely on each other, will they be able to trust that secrets will be kept? Told from three different points of view, this masterful work of historical fiction will keep readers guessing about the outcome.
Readers who enjoy WWII historical fiction will want to read this story. Set in France and told in three viewpoints, this story portrays life through their eyes during an unimaginable time. I like the way the author wrote the story in a continuous fashion and letting readers hear the thoughts of Vivian, Camille and Rachel. Very emotional story of courage, trust and betrayal that will keep readers engaged to the end. Highly recommended!
A World War II novel about 3 exceptionally brave women during German occupation in France. The sacrifice and resilience among these women speaks volumes of the role that women play during wartime. The struggles and courage of the Jewish people was heartbreaking. I highly recommend this novel by Renee Ryan and look forward to reading more from this amazing author.
Paris falls into the hands of the Nazi's. The sound of them entering the city is heard far and near. Three women know that things will never be the same for them. Paris is out of time...
Rachel Berman is a nineteen year old Jewish girl who works at the Hotel Ritz. She's one of many housekeepers. Her family depends on her to help out with her job. She's a hardworking young lady who is terrified of what the future holds. Her father thinks all will be ok. But will it?
Camille Lacroix also works at the Hotel Ritz. She sends money to her mother and siblings to help them also. She has a sister who witnessed a horrific thing and she's suffering for it now. Camille blames herself for what happened. She also wants to help Rachel. She knows Rachel is not safe in Paris any longer.
Vivian Miller is older than Rachel and Camille. She's a widow who lives at the Hotel Ritz. When the Germans invade they take over the Hotel and take Vivian's lavish suite that she's had for several years. Her husband left her everything when he died. She's had to live with the fact that others think she was just after his money but she truly loved him and him her.
The things these three women go through will have you holding your breath. Wanting them to be ok. Maybe make you cringe a bit. War is horrible and to be caught up in it this deeply is horrendous. Vivian sacrifices herself, her dignity, for the sake of many Jews. She works hard to help them. Camille does all she can to help Rachel also. Rachel is her friend and is in danger from the Nazis.
A very well written story of what happened the day the Germans entered and took over Paris. All the horrible things that happened. The things the Nazi's did to the citizens of the country. What happened to the families who were of Jewish nationalities. Having to register as a Jew so they could come after them. The hope that some held onto until the very end.
What these three females go through is nothing short of horrible. What happened during WW2 was sad indeed. You will root for these women and possibly cry with them.
Thank you #NetGalley, #ReneeRyan, #Harlequin for this ARC. This is my own true thoughts about this story.
This is a courageous and brutally honest novel about women in wartime facing moral quandaries and making difficult choices.
This book was not what I was expecting. It’s different from most other WWII novels I’ve read, and from what I was expecting from a Love Inspired novel: there was very little romance; very little redemption, inspiration, or mentions of faith. I greatly admire Renee Ryan’s willingness to focus on the terrible realities of WWII without sugarcoating or shoe-horning in a bigger focus on romance. Instead, she focuses on the women themselves: their values, friendship, or family. I just felt that maybe I got some false advertising; the book was darker than I had been expecting or wanting to read, but it was still very well done. I thought from the title and description that I was going to read about a Paris housekeeper helping a Jewish friend get to freedom, not a woman who has an affair with a Nazi. Ryan did a good job weaving the three storylines together though.
Even when the story was difficult to read, I kept going because I wanted to know what would happen to the characters. I didn't agree with some of the characters' choices, but they seem realistic. I was a bit disappointed in parts of Jaqueline’s storyline; was she just a plot device to keep Camille working in Paris, and an excuse for Camille to meet Pierre? Otherwise, the characters are complex and interesting.
This was a well-written novel, and I plan to read more from Renee Ryan.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the free eARC. These are my honest opinions.
Such a powerful story of courage, steadfastness, and sacrifice. I found myself drawn into the lives of Vivian, Camille, and Rachel. Their lives intersect all through the novel. I grieved at the losses they experienced, and marveled all over again at the absolute cruelty of the Germans as they conquered Europe under Hitler. I had the hardest time with Vivian—understanding her thought processes and why she made the choices she did. I could never really decide how she viewed herself. I think Camille and Rachel were more straight forward in their thoughts and actions.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Based on a true story, this weaves together the WWII stories of Rachel, Camille and Vivian. The women are connected through Camille, the housekeeper who is hiding her friend Rachel. Vivian a wealthy America finances efforts to rescue Parisian Jews. It's an interesting tale of determination and resilience. Thanks to the publisher for the ARC. For fans of WWII fiction.
Title: The Paris Housekeeper
Author: Renee Ryan
Genre: Historical fiction
Rating: 4.2 out of 5
Paris, 1940
German tanks rumble through the streets of Paris, forcing frightened citizens to flee. But not everyone has the luxury to leave. Camille Lacroix, a chambermaid at the world-famous Hôtel Ritz, must stay to support her family back home in Brittany. Desperate to earn money, Camille also acts as a lady’s maid for longtime guest Vivian Miller, a glamorous American widow—and a Nazi sympathizer.
Despite her distrust of the woman, Camille turns to Vivian when her friend and fellow hotel maid Rachel Berman needs help getting out of Paris. It’s then that Camille discovers that Vivian is not what she seems… The American has been using her wealth and connections to secretly obtain travel papers for Jewish refugees.
While hiding Rachel in an underground bunker under a Nazi’s nose, a daring escape plan is hatched. But as the net grows tighter, and the Germans more ruthless, Camille’s courage will be tested to the extreme…
I love WWII historical fiction, and this was a great read. Vivian’s situation absolutely horrified me, and I felt so sorry for her. I enjoyed Camille’s story, and Rachel’s as well. This was a really good story, and I loved how the three women’s stories intertwined. This was a really solid historical fiction read!
Renee Ryan is an award-winning author. The Paris Housekeeper is her newest novel.
(Galley courtesy of Harlequin in exchange for an honest review.)
(Blog link live 12/23).
The Paris Housekeeper by Renee Ryan is a compelling and poignant tale that delves into themes of bravery, resilience, persistence, friendship, sacrifice, and the unwavering determination to do what is right. Set against a backdrop of challenging circumstances, where even a single mistake could lead to catastrophic consequences for everyone involved, this story captivates readers with its powerful narrative.
In the heart of Paris, our protagonist, a housekeeper, embarks on a journey that tests her courage and strength. As she faces numerous obstacles, she demonstrates unwavering bravery in the face of adversity. The story explores the depths of human resilience, showcasing the protagonist's ability to persevere despite the challenges she encounters.
Friendship plays a significant role in this narrative, as the housekeeper forms deep connections with those around her. These relationships become a source of support and encouragement, enabling her to navigate the treacherous path she finds herself on. The bonds forged in this story highlight the importance of standing together in times of hardship.
Sacrifice is another central theme, as the housekeeper must make difficult choices that have far-reaching consequences. Her willingness to put others before herself showcases the true essence of selflessness and the lengths one can go to protect those they care about.
Within the intricate web of this tale, a single mistake could unravel everything. The narrative emphasizes the weight of responsibility and the potential repercussions that even the smallest misstep can bring. This element adds a sense of tension and suspense, keeping readers on the edge of their seats.
The Paris Housekeeper is a captivating and thought-provoking story that explores the depths of human character. Through its themes of bravery, resilience, persistence, friendship, sacrifice, and the consequences of one's actions, this narrative offers a profound and engaging reading experience.
Thank you to NetGalley, Harquelin publisher, and Love inspired for this arc. I am a fan of historical fiction and wasn't sure what to expect from this book, I am glad I took a chance. This book focused on WWII during the 1940s and how Jews were perceived during this era. This book was engaging and easy to read I had a rooting interest for the characters three women to to achieve success.
The Paris Housekeeper is a remarkable story of resistance and the good in people. Trough the pages of this book we can know the story of three women and the way the lived during the Paris Occupation in WWII and how they endured the darkest of times.
I really enjoyed reading it but had some trouble with the pace, since it was a bit on the slower side. I also thought some characters were less likeable than others, but overall, it was a gripping story and an interesting look through life of the people in Paris during this difficult time.
The Paris Housekeeper follows the lives of 3 women during the Greman occupation of Paris in WW2 - a French Jew, a Aryan looking French woman, & a rich widow who is helping Jews escape. Loosely based on actual happenings during the war, this story explores how the lives of these women intertwine & how they navigate the horrors of the times & their circumstances. Definitely an intense read.
I received an ARC copy of the book from NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions are my own.
Story of 3 women, 2 work at the Ritz in Paris and 1 American during WWII. I loved the premise of the story, 3 very different women and what they have to do to survive the Nazi occupation of Paris and their hotel. I did find the story very slow moving and struggled to finish. Admittedly I have read many WWII historical fiction books and maybe this one was just not as intriguing to me. I am interested in this time period so am thankful to have received this arc.
Renee Ryan has penned a poignant story of three seemingly ordinary women. Set against the atmospheric backdrop of WWII Paris, this is the gut-wrenching story as these women from different walks of life, seek to survive the occupation of the German army. Ms. Ryan's characters display a wide emotional range with their different beliefs, motivations, reactions and fears.
Filled with tension, I was totally immersed in the story, once again appalled at the evils of war. Ms. Ryan handles delicate topics with grace, but I do not recommend this book for younger readers. Expertly plotted, this is a strong choice for fans of historical fiction. This is Renee Ryan at her best.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author/publsiher and was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.
In Nazi occupied France, three women are caught up in the turmoil of the time. Each woman is associated with the Ritz Hotel. Each woman has her own problems regarding her future. Each woman is in a precarious position with regard to the Nazis. When their lives merge, the ladies make plans to selflessly help each other. What follows in The Paris Housekeeper by Renee Ryan is a story of intrigue, suspense and most importantly friendship between three strong women.
I really enjoyed The Paris a housekeeper by Renee Ryan. Release date is Dec 26, 2023. Thank you EW and Harlequin for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
The story is set in Paris during the German occupation during WWII. Renee Ryan does a fantastic job weaving a story of the lives of three totally different women. Not only are we able to see their resilience and grit but also their ability to make difficult decisions in order to survive. Lots of emotion here with history, apprehensions and stress woven in. A must read for any WWII historical fiction lover.
This WWII HF story takes place in Paris centered around the Hotel Ritz where Rachel, a Jewish girl, and her friend Camille, who is not Jewish, work as chambermaids. Vivian, a rich American widow, lives in one of the fancy apartments there. When the Germans take over France, everything at the hotel changes. The story is told from the POVs of Rachel, Camille and Vivian. I found this book to be a slow read and it did not get exciting until near the end.
Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin for the ARC of this book that would make a great read for a bookclub.