The Queen of Paris

Just finished reading this amazing book and I’m in awe.The author brought this icon to life in these pages.The different roles she played during World War II and the reasons why.This book goes beyond the facade to show us the real woman.The one who did what she had to for love of family and Chanel No 5.
Extremely interesting details of how the rich lived during this time.
You won’t be able to put it down once you start.
Thankyou Netgalley for this ARC.

You read the name Chanel and your senses awaken to the flowered scent that is so desired by women everywhere, Chanel No. 5 but what are the dark secrets that are buried in the past. Chanel's story lies in these pages as part fiction, part real. Why did she betray her country to preserve the iconic scent? As you read you are immersed once again into the dark years of World War II. Its a tale like so many of this period, difficult to understand and forgive but time deadens our anger and we forgive and forget but authors like this remind us and leave us with that every difficult question, why?

This book is the perfect companion to two of my favorite books of 2019, Mistress of the Ritz and Meet Me In Monaco. This is an interesting read as it is part biography and part fictional story. It was at times difficult to keep the various characters straight. The first half of the book was a slow build, but once the idea of Coco spying was proposed it suddenly picked up. This wasn’t an easy read but it was interesting.

I learned alot about Coco Chsnel through this work of historical fiction. It was interesting and we read about her being s collaborator eith the Nazis, which is abhorrent, but we also learn about her ambutions and what led her to do such things. Chanrl no. 5 is still around today so reading this story of the woman behind it was very intriguing.

I would like to thank Netgalley and the publisher for providing me with a copy free of charge. This is my honest and unbiased opinion of it.

The Queen of Paris by Pamela Binnings Ewen is a fabulous historical fiction piece that focusses on a very polarizing woman, Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel. The book narrates as Coco herself, and the reader is lucky enough to get inside her head to try to learn about her past, what monumental things happened in her life growing up and as an adult that can completely alter who they are and become, and also try to reason what was going through her mind during the German occupation of France. The book also covers Coco’s flashbacks to her past, incorporating pivotal moments that altered her path in life as well as the aftermath of the Liberation of Paris. It also covers a few key happenings onwards as well as a great Author’s note that helped the reader know what was known fact vs speculation vs fictional details added in by the author for a better narrative.

I have to say that before reading this, I did not know a lot about Chanel except that she lived at the Ritz for a while, was an antisemite and possible collaborator with the Germans. But, I knew that there had to be so much more. While her behavior is completely inexcusable, one has to think how they would react (in general) and what ideals they may compromise (she may have not have some of those ideals to begin with) when faced with survival or death. Those questions that hit at the base of who we are and what/whom we cherish most are brought up repeatedly while reading Coco’s story.

It was a very thought-provoking novel, that had a great pace, an appropriate ending, and was a much enjoyable read.

5/5 stars enthusiastically

Thank you NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for this great ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post the review to my Amazon and B&N accounts upon publication.

Thank you again!

I’d like to start by thanking Blackstone Publishing and Netgalley for this ARC. Prior to reading this book, I did not know much about the story of Gabrielle (Coco) Chanel. I have read a lot of WWII historical fiction, so I was very excited to read this. I've seen some claims that she was anti-Semitic so I was interested to see how that was approached in this novel and if I felt like I could come to the same conclusion. Of course, this is historical FICTION, so I understand that there may be some slant.

The author's style in this book is very engaging and has the right amount of description. The writing was easy to follow and I like that the chapters were relatively short. My one concern with the writing style in Queen of Paris is that the pacing seemed a little strange; the years 1940 and 1941 take up nearly 85% of the novel while the remaining years through the end of WWII seemed rushed.

This is one of the first novels I can remember classified as a WWII historical fiction that I've read that isn't focused on a "hero"... someone who resists the Nazis, is part of the French Resistance, or is Jewish and taken to a concentration camp. I liked that this was a different viewpoint and that Coco Chanel is clearly not a one-dimensional "perfect" person. While her character can be annoying at times and she frequently makes idiotic decisions, I think that is refreshing for this genre. While reading, I would find her actions to be frustrating and inappropriate, but then she'd surprise me by doing something I could understand. I am not saying I agree with every decision she made throughout this novel, I'm just saying it was refreshing to read about a "gray" character and attempt to understand the reasoning behind the decisions she made.

In summary, I did enjoy reading this novel. At the end, the thought that stuck with me was that we all make poor decisions in our life, largely driven by our own experiences. Should we be forgiven for these mistakes if they are made because we are naive and acting in our own self interest? I'm not sure of the answer to that question, but this book will definitely make you think about it.

Overall, a 3.5 star read for me.

I have just read “The Queen of Paris” A Novel of Coco Chanel by Pamela Binnings Ewen

What an intriguing book. Pamela Binnings Ewen writes eloquently. The author has done a great deal of research, and the book was very engaging and very interesting. Her description of Coco Chanel and the era was very visual.

It is a storyline takes place during the four years of Nazi occupation in Paris in the midst of WWII

I am giving this book a solid 4.5 stars

I found it a wonderful read, but at times a bit hard to follow all of the characters, and a bit long winded, however a book that I would highly recommend to those who love a good historical fiction

#TheQueenOfParis #NetGalley

Thank you NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing

Pamela Binnings Ewen's "The Queen of Paris" is a historical fiction based on Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel's life during World War II, Germany's occupation of Paris. This novel reveals some of the secrets into her personal life; her tenacity to keep Chanel No. 5 formula from being produced and distributed without her consent, and potentially losing control over the rights and the profits to it. The sacrifices and risks she had to make to protect her business, and save André's (her nephew) life.

I admire Coco's resiliency to overcome poverty, being abandoned by her father to become the sophisticated, successful fashion and perfume icon. As a business woman, in a male dominated industry, she had to be tough and put on a strong facade, but this novel also showed a softer, caring side to her character.

This novel started out slow, but got to be engaging, intriguing and dramatic as the story continued. A fascinating look at what possibly motivated, inspired Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel.

Thank you Net Galley for this ARC. Look for this novel when it is published on April 07, 2020.

Gabrielle Bonheur ‘Coco’ Chanel (1883-1972) remains to be an icon of couture and perfume Chanel No. 5. But what probably most of us don’t know, she was also Nazi spy. Not by her choice, but by playing with fire, she put herself into fire. To save something or someone she dearly loved, she was forced to collaborate with Nazi.

French Riviera, 1944. Gabrielle Chanel – Coco to most – just learned that her business partner has stolen the No. 5 perfume formula.

Pierre Wertheimer, Jewish businessman, flees Europe for America taking with him the formula to produce it in the US.

“Since closing her line of couture last year after the worker’s strike, No. 5 has become her primary source of income.”

She takes the case to court.

The story alternates between 1940-1944 and her past.

1909. On a hot humid day, “on a whim I tied a black grosgrain ribbon around the rim of a straw boater, a lighter, cooler hat than fashionable ladies wore.” Then suddenly, some ladies crave her hat. Before she knows, she is in business of selling hats.

“Then came jackets and skirts and blouses… (…) classic, simple…”

1940. As France is under German control, now it’s also governed by German laws. She thinks she can outsmart SS officer. But she makes a fatal mistake. And now she can lose everything, even her freedom.

Vividly imagined story has a heart-warming ending, even tear-dropping. To have such a friend…

The focus of the story is Coco Chanel, not the gruesome events of WWII. At the same time, the author skillfully puts dimensions into the time period. It is interesting to read how war is progressing in France, some not feeling the effect of it at all, at least at the beginning of the war. And after liberation, the terror, or the Purge, that follows on the streets of Paris.

Coco Chanel is very real. She is a very complex woman. Among her many traits, she is ambitious, driven, arrogant, and more. Events in her life propel her to be certain way. She makes a name for herself, but she is not so lucky with the love of her life – Boy Capel. Despite her superiority, she still can be a likeable character and you do feel sympathy for her and feel for her lost love.

With smooth prose and evoking characters, this story of an iconic couturier is revealed in engrossing layers.

What a wonderful read!!!!!! I learned a lot from this book. I’m an avid WWII reader and I love when I come away with something I didn’t know before. Paris, the Ritz, Coco...what a time to live..but what a tough time to live through.

I hadn’t really known much about Gabrielle (Coco) Chanel before beginning this book, and I’ve never read a book about war time.
Let me tell you, this combination was magical.
It is historical fiction, but based on true events. At the very end the author explains more of how they got the information to make it historical fiction which I also found fascinating!
This books transported me so thoroughly I kept forgetting it was fiction.
I can’t wait to recommend this one!

A big fan of Coco Chanel's designs, I was anxious to review this "novel based on the real life of Coco Chanel." The story was excellent, with suspense, romance and history intermixed. It switches between first person and third person throughout the book, which is a bit annoying, but didn't dull my interest in the story. It gives a unique perspective on the events of WWII, as well as Chanel's life. After finishing the book and reading the author's notes, I'm still not clear how much of this is truth and how much is fictionalized. It's made me want to seek out a biography of Chanel to compare. Excellent reading!

Pamela Binnings Ewen is a brilliant writer who delivers an amazing depiction of Gabriella Chanel life in this time slip story revealing events from her younger years and then later that shows her quick wit and determination as she faces unthinkable situations when the war smashes down on France. The book begins in Paris, Place Vendome Fall 1944. The author gives readers a peek into this mysterious woman who created Channel No.5, (who I knew nothing about) Coco says, “Once all of Paris lay at my feet, and Europe, too. The world was mine. Even after I closed the House of Chanel in 1939 in a fit of pique, my luminous No. 5 still sold, until Pierre stole it away.”

Readers get to walk in Icon Coco Chanel shoes as she faces the realities of WWII. Up until this point it had just been rumors. She didn’t think any of it was real, but when her business partner Pierre moves to America and starts to build a Chanel plant there she begins to panic and takes her partner to court. Chanel No.5 was her creation, it had her name on it. How could he take that away from her?

The author states in Author notes, “Coco Chanel was known to be an anti-Semite and a controversial and secretive woman, with emotional layers as difficult to differentiate as the various scents in the compositions of her perfumes. It is often said that jasmine from Grasse is the top note in No. 5. It’s difficult to pick out the true “top note” in Coco’s own life, the events that formed her… or from her own struggles to survive, and the deep sorrow over Andre….dear reader, I leave you to judge.”

This author masterfully takes you inside this complex woman’s head and her past showing how the hurts of life left deep scares. She also gives a glimpse at the infancy of this woman’s creation of Channel No. 5 perfume. Coco didn’t stop at creating perfumes, she also developed a clothing line. Both were successful. She was a very talented, and driven woman determined not to ever be poor again. There is a quote in the book that sums it up, “I, Coco Chanel, have discovered the first rule of survival: Trust no one but yourself.” This statement permeated her life.

The author exposes this famous woman’s pain and triumphs in this beautifully written story I couldn’t put down. I had heard of the perfume Chanel No. 5 but nothing else. The author keeps this story clean in that there were no cuss words, and no graphic sex scenes. I was reminded about how much people smoked back then as it was a habit Coco Chanel had. This is quite an adventure you won’t soon forget. I love learning about history this way. I’ve read a lot of books about WWII but never from a famous person’s perspective. The author takes you inside Coco’s life, WWII on the streets of France, Society and those who are blacklisted. It’s a compelling read you don’t want to miss.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, Netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins! www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com

I loved this. I recently have read several novels taking place during this era which have painted Coco Chanel in a less than flattering light. It was nice to read about some events that may have led her to do some of the things she did. Also nice to read a novel which shows her to have a heart. Highly recommended!

This fictional account of Coco Chanel's life in Paris during World War II was looked at from a very different aspect than other novels written about her. This was a not so sympathetic portrait of the fashion icon. It was, however, well-written, well-paced and made me care about what happens next.

All I knew about Coco Chanel was the perfume and the "little black dress"! I enjoyed reading about her early life and the struggles she endured as a young girl/woman. There was criticism and censure among her fellow Parisians because she seemed to (and, to some extent, did) collaborate with the Germans in occupied Paris during World War II. She definitely made some poor choices during that time but I'm reluctant to criticize too harshly. There is no way that any of us can know what we would or would not do in such an untenable situation. What she did to help her nephew/son, to help herself, to help close friends was what she felt was right at the time. I was disturbed by her drug use but, in those times, there were any number of people that used drugs as casually as you or I might take aspirin. It was a great story about a woman who survived a dark period in world history..

Thanks to Blackstone Publishing and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book and give an honest review.

One of my book clubs loves historical fiction novels, and I am very excited to introduce this to them once it is published!

As WWII looms over Paris, Coco Chanel is faced with the unexpected defection of the man she is in business with to produce her most famous product of all—her perfume, Chanel N° 5. In an attempt to get back her rights to the perfume, she will agree to do anything. But is it worth it in the end?

The Queen of Paris explores the life of Coco Chanel through the occupation of Paris during the war. This picture of Chanel is not a pretty one. It shows how she will do anything—even if it means going against her beloved France—to keep what she has built and protect the ones she loves. Glimpses into her past give you a clearer picture of why she became so motivated to be successful, and why it is so important for her to cling to what is hers. A beautifully written story. Perfect for readers of historical fiction.

The Queen of Paris is an intriguing look at the life of Coco Chanel. Alternating between the 1940s when she lived in occupied Paris and the early 1900s when she was the mistress of several famous men and starting her career, the novel details her struggles to control the company and the quintessential perfume that bears her name, as well as her actions during the war. While historical fiction, the book attempts to balance her need to succeed as a woman who had been used and abandoned by all the men in her life with her decision to stay in the Ritz and have an affair with a Nazi officer during the war. Was it survival or desire for money and power? Was she a Nazi spy or was she forced to do the bidding of Canaris and others to save her company? Those who see Chanel as a collaborator may not have their minds changed, but some may find her actions excusable in the pursuit of holding on to the company she founded through wartime and betrayal.

"The Queen of Paris" is based on the life of Coco Chanel. The author did a fantastic job and it was well researched. A very emotional read. I enjoyed reading this account of her early life and the struggles she went through.

Thank you to Blackstone and NetGalley for the eARC

I knew about CoCo Chanel being a Nazi spy and how she lived at the Ritz in Paris with German officers. I did not know how much she is her perfume Chanel No. 5. That has always been my favorite. Although her actions make me cringe I can see why she did it. If that were to happen now, we might not have the House of Chanel and all that goes with it.

I love Chanel No. 5, and the story of the woman behind the scent is eye opening! Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel rises above her difficult childhood to create what is probably the world's best known fragrance, as well as a groundbreaking style of clothing. What "The Queen of Paris" tells us is about the woman, not the image.

Coco's father left her and her sisters in a convent at an early age. Life there was not easy, and eventually Coco leaves for Paris. Her early hardships leave an indelible mark on her, reflected in her relationships with men, and the decisions that she makes. When the Nazis invade Paris, shortly after her business partner decamps to the United States with 90% of the business and the recipe for Chanel No. 5, Coco will do anything to get her business back, including colluding with Nazi's and using the fact that her business partner is Jewish to get his business confiscated.

The Queen of Paris is an eye opening expose of one of the worlds most known names, that takes us deep into her psyche and helps us understand what shapes her and her actions. It feels historically accurate and biographical while at the same time we experience with her the fear, greed, longing for love, and passion for her fragrance that drives everything she does. We might not like her, or her actions, but we do understand why she does them. I was fascinated, horrified, touched and exasperated, sometimes all at the same time. The historical notes that Pamela Binnings Ewen includes at the end help to round out this complicated, fragile, determined, lonely, arrogant woman that we know as Coco Chanel. Don't miss it!

Thank you to Netgalley and Blackstone Publishing for the opportunity to read the Advanced Readers Copy of The Queen of Paris, by Pamela Binnings Ewan., in exchange for my honest opinion and review.

The subject of the Queen of Paris, Coco Chanel, is not new to me. The character in which she was portrayed was certainly not one fit of the title. Queen. Chanel was described as being anything but true to her homeland of Paris France. She was a Nazi sympathizer and collaborator. With the German Occupancy of France in WWII, Coco did whatever slanderous actions needed to guarantee her personal prosperity. Coco lived a selfish life. Some called it survival, but to many she was simply a traitor to her country. It's as though war was beneath her, a mere nuisance.

This story as one of love, loss, solitude, greed, and success, but always at a price. Chanel was a force to be reckoned with. It was not simply by chance that she became the business tycoon in which she built an empire. I found her to be rather cold and calculating. I found it hard to like her or root for her success. Coco lived a lonely existence beneath all the glitz, and to that I think she was deserving.

I like the way this story flowed. The author was able to strip away this woman of wealth and power and show her deep and monstrous soul. She may have persevered, even prospered, however her lonely existence was brought upon by her own very thoughts and actions.

I enjoyed this book! There was a lot about Coco Chanel that I didn't know before reading. It was a little strange that the point of view went from 1st to 3rd person between chapters but nothing that I couldn't get past. It was an easy, quick read and I would recommend it.

Wow! What an interesting life story about Coco Chanel. Really loved this book!

Many thanks to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for my ARC. All opinions are my own.

I received an ARC of this novel from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

The life story of Coco Chanel is told in this novel. She suffered abandonment and much loss, but also gained much success in life. Her collaboration with the Nazis was both unforgivable and understandable if Andre was indeed her son.

Very interesting book. I loved it.

Very interesting tale told from Coco's side of the story and her time in Paris during the Nazi occupation.

I have read quite a lot of WW2 historical fiction lately and this book was great.

I did receive and ARC of this book from netgalley for my honest feedback.

I have only heard fairly recently about Coco Chanel being an anti-Semite and Nazi collaborator. I was somewhat hesitant to request this novel from NetGalley, wondering if would be an apologist piece justifying her actions, or if it would be a critical look at her life. I found it to be both - and an extremely interesting story. It is a novel, but based on documented facts. I learned a lot about Coco's life in general, and it did offer plausible explanations for how she became who she was and why she did what she did (although I am definitely not condoning her actions). And it did include her spy work for the Nazis, etc, as well as her struggle to keep her company. Of course, we'll never really know Chanel's inner-most thoughts, but I really liked this book, and the fascinating look at not only her life but of war time Paris. Pamela Binnings Ewen did a great job of describing the life of this fashion icon, some of her personal heartbreaks, along with her singular and somewhat cold blooded focus on surviving anything and everything. Many thanks to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for the e-arc - much more compelling than I expected!

This book was very well written and easily sucked you in. This is a fictional book so liberties were taken but I love how it’s a great starting point in learning about Coco Chanel

The Queen of Paris is about the life of Coco Chanel during WWII. It invites us into an exploration of what Coco's life must have been like and how she went from surviving and total dependence on the men in her life, to thriving and independent. I enjoyed the read and the wartime setting, and it was a little disheartening to discover this side of Coco Chanel's life, as she engaged with the Germans, seemingly detached from what was going on around her. Some artists and creatives can become so passionate about their work that this happens. Unfortunately I didn't find Coco a likeable character, even though she's seeking to protect and save her closest family member.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC and thank you to Pamela for writing it.

Pamela Binnings Ewen paints a picture of Coco Chanel as charming yet ruthless and manipulative as she fights for control of her Chanel No. 5. With the approach of WWII, her business partner Pierre Wertheimer relocated to America, taking the perfume’s formula with him. Chanel owned only a small share of the company and her efforts to regain control appeared futile. After the Germans entered Paris, she used her connections to appeal to Admiral Canaris, head of the Abwehr. Pierre was Jewish and the Nuremberg Laws prohibited him from owning any business, but her appeal to Canaris came at a price. It is one that she was willing to pay if she can also discover the fate of her son, a German POW.

Ewen alternates her tale of Chanel’s war years with her earlier years. She was abandoned by her father as a child, became a mistress as a young woman and finally found love with Boy Capel. She believed that love would be forever, but was betrayed when she became pregnant and Boy later married another. Her design of hats finally opened up a future for her that led to her clothing and fragrances and brought the status and wealth that she would fight for.

Chanel was not an easy character to like. As the people of Paris suffered during the occupation, she was unaffected by the food shortages and could not see what was going on around her. Life at the Hotel Ritz was comfortable for her and her sense of entitlement was constantly in evidence. Even so, she was an interesting personality whose name is still prevalent today. It is well worth spending the time with Coco Chanel. I would like to thank Blackstone Publishing and NetGalley for providing this book for my review.

I actually decided to read/review this title based solely on the author, having read and enjoyed books by Pamela Binnings Ewen in the past. This is the first I’ve read by her that would not be characterized as Christian fiction, however. She is a talented author and knows how to craft a compelling story.

I learned a lot both about Coco Chanel and WWII in Paris especially. It was a hard book to put down while at the same time hard to read based on the atrocities that went on during that war and the .German occupation.

I was given an advance copy of the book for review via net galley in exchange for an honest review.

Coco Chanel was hot-headed and selfish, she was also swindled by the men she trusted most in her life starting with her father. This book is well written and does not soften Coco in any way. Coco lives at The Ritz during World War II. Her main mission is to get back ownership of her famous Chanel #5, and she will do just about anything to make that happen. She goes through World War II first denying it's even happening, and then only caring what it is doing to her bank account. She seems oblivious to what is going on around her, as long as she gets what she wants. I don't want to say too much and give away some of the main plots of the book. Thank you to netgalley for the providing me with the book in exchange for an honest review.

Coco Chanel was conniving, deceitful, a collaborator, and a survivor. Ewen tells,her story very well. The Queen of a Paris is a solid read. The book is rich with detail about Chanel's trials during WWII and her willingness to betray her country to spy for the Germans. She was very fortunate to escape persecution after the war. I don't care for her as a person very much, but Ewen does an accurate depiction of her character and circumstances.

Read if you: Like stories with "grey" characters.

I knew little about Coco Chanel before reading this (other than that she was a fashion designer/parfumer). Although I did find this a bit slow-going at first (like other reviewers), once I was hooked, I couldn't wait to get back to it. Chanel is not a likeable person by any means, but I feel this is a fairly even-handed portrayal of her attributes and her moral failures.

Librarians and booksellers: Get this for your WW II historical fiction fans or your fashion history fans.

Many thanks to Blackstone Publishing and NetGalley for a digital review copy in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this captivating, novelized story of Coco Chanel. I knew very little of Chanel’s biography and found this book readable, informative and engaging. The books switches back and forth between time periods smoothly and in a way that really enhances the story. I especially appreciated the historical detail of occupied Paris during WWII from Chanel’s point of view. Well-written and very enjoyable.

This novel captured my attention from its savvy cover art...however, the story held my captive since page one....and did not let go until the final chapter. Read this novel...you will not be disappointed. Five Stars!

Thanks to #BlackstonePublishing and #netgalley for the opportunity to read and review #thequeenofparis
Pub. Date 4/7/2020
This book tells the story of Coco Chanel and her life during the Nazi occupation of Paris. The author uses flashbacks to fill in the details of her early life. Basically the book posits that Coco worked for the Nazis during the war. She lived in the Ritz hotel, where all the high ranking Nazis stayed. Her partner in her Chanel No. 5 perfume stole the recipe for her signature scent and we follow along as Coco fights to keep control of her creation. Everything she does is aimed at saving what rightly belonged to her. A well written book that I highly recommend.

We all know the iconic Coco Chanel. She’s the iconic designer. The woman behind the interlocking C’s, the ropes of pearls, the face of the perfume, creator of the Little Black Dress. And she was also a Nazi collaborator and spy.

Author Pamela Binnings Ewen ushers us into Chanel’s life in two perspectives in this novel. We see snippets of Chanel’s pre-World War 2 days in third person flashbacks and we see her in first person during “current time” World War 2. This novel captures the frivolity of Paris before the Nazi invasion as well as Chanel’s struggles to retain her brand, save her son, and the lengths she has to go to in order to save them.

This novel was beautifully written. The pre-invasion buzzy society life, to the melancholy , the anxiety, and the fear as they plagued France and Chanel’s life during WW2, were palpable throughout the book. There was great care given to portraying Chanel’s Nazi sympathizer and spy past. Through her writing, Ewen allowed us to form our own opinion about Chanel’s behavior and did not add any of her own personal bias to the writing. This book was very well researched, well detailed, and an absolute pleasure to read.

World war 2 and Coco Chanel.

In Spring of 1940 Coco receives news informing her that her longtime business partner Pierre Wertheimer has stolen the formula for her famous Chanel no 5 perfume and plans to build a factory and produce the perfume in America.
He has transferred his major ownership in the company to a Swiss National thereby protecting himself as under German law no Jewish person can own business. He draws up a trust agreement that will ensure he can take back control when the war ends..

Coco believes this will cheapen her product, that it will be no longer be sold exclusively.

Pierre has bought up all the jasmine in Grasse, France which is the essential essence of the perfume.

Coco takes her case to court , her company Societe Mademoiselle is protected by French law and the company owns the rights to the perfume she believes. She plans to sell the perfume throughout Europe until the war is over and then compete with Pierre worldwide.as she is informed she has lost her cas

She gives birth to son and since she is unmarried she ensures that he is known as her nephew the son of her dead sister.
\

She becomes a spy for Germany to learn all that she can about Spain's war plans in return for the freedom of her nephew from a labor camp and for his medical costs.

When the Americans liberate Paris, the resistance comes. Coco is captured but since her files detailing her spy activities she is freed..

She flees to Lusanne and it is there that Pierre finds her and shows her how much money she has made from her presume sales. He ofrs her an additional 2% profit and cover all her expenses including her nephew's for the rest of her lifetime.
They part amicably.

This story is about Gabrielle ‘Coco’ Chanel. The way in which she was portrayed was certainly not like a Queen. Coco Chanel had a hard childhood and was basically a wealthy man’s kept woman during her young adult life prior to becoming known as a skilled designer and perfumer.

During WWII she was not true to her homeland of Paris France. History shows that she was a Nazi sympathizer and collaborator. With the German Occupancy of France in WWII, Coco did whatever actions were needed to guarantee her personal prosperity. She took a high ranking German as a lover for four years so she could continue living at the Ritz. Coco was a very selfish woman. Some reading this story could call it survival of the fittest but to the French Resistance and those loyal to France most felt she was a traitor.

This story encompasses so many emotions: love, betrayal, loss, loneliness, success, as well as greed. I found her to be rather cold and calculating. I found it hard to like her because she really had no redeeming qualities.

I enjoyed the way the story unfolded. The author was able to draw the reader in and explore the person who was Coco Chanel. Ultimately Coco Chanel survived the war but her penance was a very lonely existence.

Pamela Binnings Ewan is a skilled writer and historical researcher. It was obvious to me that the amount of research that the author had done to write this novel was enormous. I truly enjoyed the novel. Well done. I can’t wait to see what this author has in store for us next.

Thank you to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for the opportunity to read the ARC of The Queen of Paris, by Pamela Binnings Ewan., in exchange for an honest opinion and review.

Thank you Netgalley and Blackstone publishing for allowing me an ARC of this title.

Coco Chanel. The very name conjures visions of high fashion and elegant perfumes, not Nazi Germany and war.

This is a well researched book about a very selfish, strong willed woman. It was somewhat difficult to follow but overall, an enjoyable read. I've read several books about Coco Chanel. This is not my favorite book about her life, however, it is very well written, if somewhat wordy. The author did bring the characters to life, Pamela Binnings Ewen has an ability to create a visual picture of the events and the character. Overall, I give this book 4 stars for holding my interest and attention.

Thank you NetGalley for an early copy of The Queen of Paris.

Coco Chanel survived WWII German occupied Paris in a controversial way While living at the Hotel Ritz, a German headquarter, she collaborated and rubbed elbows, and bed sheets, with the hierarchy of the SS military. Just before the German invasion her (Jewish) partner in her wildly successful perfume, Chanel NO 5, fled to America with the recipe and plans to manufacture the perfume overseas. She decides to fight him in every way even appealing to the German courts to let her retain the rights due to his heritage. During this time she must also do whatever it takes to rescue her nephew who has become a POW.

Told from Chanel's point of view this is a very interesting take on the polarizing icon. It is a good historical novel that attempts to understand the rational and the risky decisions the designer made to save herself during this traumatic world event. It shows a more human vulnerable side that is sometimes lost in the telling of her story.

Having read Mistress of the Ritz, I was excited about reading The Queen of Paris. The author, Pamela Binnings Ewen, does an excellent job portraying Chanel. I could tell that she had completed a lot of research to tell Coco’s story. I did think the first half was a bit slow. I am glad I stuck with this book as the second half was well done. I read a lot of WWII historical fiction and this book is another piece of the WWII puzzle. Thank you NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

This book takes you through Coco Chanel's life, from the time she was a young girl, up until after the war when she moved to Switzerland. I have read a lot of historical fiction about WWII and particularly about Coco Chanel and her involvement with the Nazis. This book spent a lot of time on her ongoing battle with Pierre Wertheimer over rights to her Chanel No. 5 perfume, which he stole and took to America and started producing there during the war. It also spent a lot of time on her time as a spy for the Nazis. I have to admit I wasn't familiar with either of those facts so they were interesting, but I did wish there wasn't quite so much time focused on those, especially the court battle with Pierre. Otherwise, it was a fascinating book with a lot of interesting information about one of the most iconic people in the fashion industry.

The Queen Of Paris by Pamela Binnings Ewen is an historical fiction novel about the complex and fascinating life of Coco (Gabrielle) Chanel highlighting her life in Paris during WWII. This woman was a gutsy, creative, brave, stubborn, self involved walking contradiction who happened to be, by all documented accounts, a Nazi spy!

Coco came from humble beginnings. She learns at an early age that if you want security you must make your own money. Luckily, she has her creative talent and womanly wiles to start her own fashion business and make a fortune with her perfume Chanel No. 5. However, Coco isn't worldly enough to see the realities of business and political espionage and this lack of awareness nearly costs her The House of Chanel and her life.

When the Nazis march through Paris she still believes it's a fake war. Living in wealth at the Hotel Ritz among Nazi leaders she not only believes she is safe she is more concerned about her Jewish business partner who has fled to New York with the Chanel No.5 formula. Coco makes some avoidable mistakes that lead her to being a Nazi spy. It is astonishing what she overcomes and how she remains, til this day, a fashion icon.

I was excited to read this story from the moment I saw the beautiful intriguing cover and it did not disappoint me. In fast paced and extremely honest prose the author lets us see Coco in all her glory and her failures. Going back and forth from 1909 to1940 through 1944 we see Coco as an abandoned waif, a courtesan mistress, an inventor, a business woman, a stern boss and a desperate woman who does the unthinkable to survive.

The author let's us draw our own conclusions of Coco. Was she really a Nazi sympathizer or a gullible fool? I have to say this book left me with more questions than answers but i was mesmerized with the journey.

I received a free copy of this Ebook from the publisher via NetGalley for a fair and honest review.

This is a fascinating look at the iconic Coco Chanel during the time of the Nazi occupation of France. It is 1940 and Chanel has built up a company and a legacy with her couture and her signature perfume, Chanel no. 5. Using flashbacks, Ewen paints a picture of a poverty stricken and abandoned Coco, who learns to trust no one in her quest for a better life. Now her business partner, Pierre Wertheimer, has left with the formula for Chanel no. 5 and resettled in New York in order to begin production there, all behind Coco Chanel’s back. She is desperate to seize control back and is even willing to use the new Nazi courts and their anti-Semitic laws against the Jewish Pierre. Drawing the attention of the Nazis and their realization that Coco’s son is in a concentration camp, leads to Coco’s recruitment into the Nazi spy network. She is sent to Spain to convince Franco to join forces with Hitler and Mussolini in their quest to conquer Europe. Coco remains a guest of the Ritz hotel, even though it was being used as the Nazi Headquarters.
Though it has never been proven that the child Coco claimed to be her nephew, was really her son, Ewen takes some liberties by creating this bond to explain some of Coco Chanel’s motivations for helping the Nazi’s. It is true that she was able to use her business acumen after the Allies freed Paris, to escape the fate of other suspected Nazi sympathizers, by handing out free bottles of Chanel no. 5 to GIs. Despite her denials of ever working with the enemy, files released years later, confirmed that she did indeed have at least a code name and handlers.
This portrayal of Coco is not without sympathy. Though characterized as arrogant; myopically ambitious and ruthless; and often uncaring to those suffering around her; Ewan softens her character by her portrayal of a sad and lonely childhood, and Coco’s unwavering love toward a son who does not reciprocate her feelings.
The prose and descriptions of both a conquered Paris, and an earlier world of upper-class luxury; paint a vivid picture of the France of Coco Chanel’s time. This is a well-researched, unapologetic work of historical fiction, and an interesting view of a strong, powerful woman and who she really was. This would be a great read for those interested in WWII historical fiction, biographical fiction, and fiction about the world of couture fashion and one of its most celebrated women.

The Queen of Paris is a historical fiction novel about the life of Coco Chanel in Paris during the height of WWII. I wanted to read this book because I didn't know much about Chanel. The research I did after reading the book suggests that the author was well researched in her writing of this book.

The book begins as Coco Chanel is faced with the theft of the recipe for her most famous product, her perfume Chanel No. 5, To maintain her livelihood and hold onto the rights to her beloved fragrance, Coco makes some life changing decisions. The book gives flashbacks to Coco's childhood, which lends a clearer picture as to why she makes the decisions that she does.

I am grateful for the opportunity to read The Queen of Paris, and to gain a better understanding of the life of one of history's most iconic figures. Thank you to NetGalley, Blackstone Publishing and Pamela Binnings Ewen for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.

This was the first book about Coco Chanel that I read, I didn't know she was a Nazi collaborator, ruthless and manipulative woman, I think the author describes her so perfectly, there are so many details about her life throughout the book, the writing is so perfect. The story alternates between 1940-1944 and her past. which gives the reader a very clear insight into the upcoming of Chanel. I enjoy reading this book, It's so important to always learn new facts about history and this book has done that.

Thanks to Blackstone Publishing and Netgalley for this ARC.

An absolute triumph! This is an Absolutely delicious story of Chanel during the war years of WWII. It's the Chanel you never knew about. The author, Pamela Binnings Ewen, brings the darker side of Chanel's sumptuous life alive in this Historical Fiction story of her lost loves, memories, and the struggle to hold on to her greatest creation; Chanel No.5 perfume while the France collapses during the Nazi Occupation.

This book is explosive in bringing the enigmatic Coco Chanel alive...she was a woman completely ahead of her time and apologized to no one. She didn't need to, she is COCO. She is Chanel. She is fashion. She is the infamous Chanel No.5, and she is a spy.

This is the Chanel you never knew, and after reading this extremely well researched book, you the reader, will be left with deciding for yourself who she really was.

This is a fiction general market book that covers briefly Coco Chanel's childhood when she was orphaned at a young age and turned over to be raised in a convent, but predominantly is focused on her life during World War 2 in Paris. By the time the war got to France, Coco had already developed Chanel #5 and had her clothing boutique in operation. Much of her financing came from a Jewish partner, Pierre Wertheimer. Young and naive, she doesn't make a very good deal with Pierre as he gets 90% control of the company and Coco gets only 10%. She also makes numerous bad choices in both her business and love life which come back to haunt her. But she is a survivor, and manages to come out well in the end except for the relationship with her only son.

Well written, this book is an interesting look at someone who came from nothing but rises through pure grit and determination to become a fashion and perfume icon.


I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

Coco Chanel is without a doubt one of the most interesting characters of history ever. I have always been fascinated by her time spent in Paris, at the Ritz during WWII. This a must read for historical fiction fans.

This intriguing novel about Coco Chanel's life during the Nazi Occupation of Paris is written with the dual timeline that takes you back to her youth and lets you experience the events that shaped the woman she became.

On the surface, Coco is a sophisticated business woman living at The Ritz who continues her extravagant lifestyle, refusing to believe that her life will be impacted by the war. This, despite the fact that she is now sharing the place she has called home for many years with high ranking members of the Third Reich. Despite rumours of their cruelty and ruthlessness, she still dresses extravagantly and dines with them.

She manipulates her way into their graces, in order to save all that is dear to her. She never imagines how cruel these cold hearted men are, and how they will make her pay dearly for any favors. She refuses to give up her fight to reclaim her business from her business partner who has manage to smuggle the formula for her famous Chanel No. 5 perfume. She also struggles to protect a secret that she has held dear all her life.

This book gives you a broad look into the life and loves of Coco Chanel, and opens up new questions about the many rumors surrounding her secret involvement with the Nazis.

Thank you Blackstone Publishing and NetGalley for an advanced reader copy of The Queen of Paris by Pamela Binnings Ewen.

#TheQueenOfParis #NetGalley #ARC

The Queen of Paris by Pamela Binnings Ewen is a novelized memoir of Coco Chanel. It is a moving story of a self-centered woman who did many things others considered over-the-top. She did not have an easy life and she made her own luck. She was loved by many men, never enough to marry her, however. She had one child, who she was never able to claim. The story gave an alternative view of the Nazis in Paris...not a favorable one, just different. Sometimes things have to be done in order to survive. She did those things. She knew what she was doing and she didn't always like it, but she did it anyway.

Coco was a complex character and Ewen has captured that in this book. She is a highly damaged woman, too beautiful and willing for her own good. She loved deeply but despite her many lovers, was very naive and was hurt easily. She was perceptive but never knew when to retreat. She used the Nazis as much as they used her. The story is told in narration and jumps from her earlier life to 1940 and back again. We are introduced to the men who loved her as well as the men who used her. We are given glimpses of other famous people of the time: The Duke and Duchess of Windsor, Winston Churchill, Hermann Goering, et al. It was a terrific read. I learned a lot. I enjoyed it and recommend it as a splendid historical novel as well as women's fiction.

I received a free ARC of The Queen of Paris from Netgalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #thequeenofparis

I really enjoyed this book!! The Queen of Paris is a historical fiction novel based on the life of Coco Chanel. Coco Chanel most certainly had an interesting life and this author showed that in many different ways. At the mercy of men when she was young, she takes control of her life after the men in her life constantly disappoint her. She makes some horrible life decisions, one of which is signing a contract where she only receives 10% royalties on her own perfume. This book focuses on her trying to get control back of her perfume as well as her living in the Ritz with the Nazis when they invaded Paris. I finished this book with the same view of Coco Chanel as I did before I read it, I am not a fan of Coco Chanel, but I am a huge fan of Pamela Binnings Ewen! This book was well written, held my attention and gave me a lot to think about!!

Thank you to Netgalley and Blackstone Publishing for this eARC in exchange for my honest review.

I liked this overall, but it is sort of slow. It tells the fictionalized story of Coco Chanel during World War II. She did collaborate with the Nazis, but no one seems totally certain what her motives were. Was she thoughtless, just looking out for herself, or were they holding something over her head? I got the impression that if the Nazis hadn't moved into her hotel where she had been living, across the street from her couture house, that none of this would have likely happened. The book definitely makes you think about things. There were plenty of prominent people who took the side of the Germans in World War II, before people really knew the extent of what they were up to, and this seems like a poor choice in hindsight, but if faced with making these decisions, without all of the facts, would we really have reacted differently? If the Germans had been successful, Chanel would probably look like the smart one in this scenario. See. This book makes you think about stuff.

Another @netgalley #advancedreaderscopy that is now available on #amazonkindle. This is a fictional account of Coco Chanel’s life during #ww2. The narrative has you cheering for Coco sometimes and other chapters wondering what her true motives might have been. An imaginative ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ book perfect for those interested in #chanel and #paris. 📚📚📚 #reading #booklover #bookreview #bookrecommendation #netgalley

I was not really excited about an historic novel about a fashion icon and kept putting this book to the bottom of the pile. When it surfaced yet again, I opened it and wow, I had trouble putting it down. The book is beautifully written, extremely well researched and always interesting. The mood of the period is perfectly captured; the annoyance by the privileged regarding the “phony war” and then ultimately the tension of the invasion of France by the Nazis and the deprivations suffered by the demimonde.

In her novel about Coco Chanel, Pamela Binnings Ewen relates the history of Chanel’s early life setting a strong background for the woman she is to become. It provides insight into her persona and unsurprisingly she is depicted as a driven woman who did anything and everything to protect herself and her creation, No. 5. The preservation of her ownership of the perfume that bore her name and the House of Chanel, which made her famous and rich was worth forsaking her humanity and was the cause of her ultimate descent into Nazi collaboration and treason. She always had a reason; she always had an excuse and she always believed that she could have done it no other way. She sublimated the greater good of her beloved France for her personal survival. She judged all and everything only as it affected Coco Chanel. Binnings Ewen allows the reader enough leeway to examine Chanel’s morality or lack thereof. She was a legend and surprisingly her brand remains a strong motivator.

Thank you NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for a copy of this highly intelligent and insightful book.

Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel fights to take back control of her No 5 fragrance after her Jewish business partner flees Europe during the war with the confidential formula. While continue to live alongside the Nazis as they occupy Paris, she will do anything to survive including collaborate with the Germans in order to keep her secrets hidden. How far will she go to protect her livelihood?

This was a fascinating novel that Ewen has crafted from recently discovered WWII files. While most of us know the iconic name of Chanel, not everyone may know her full story. I was shocked to discover that she had been a spy for the Nazis during the war. There are many historical fiction novels that tell the stories of women fighting on the side of the Allies or in the resistance and I thought this was an interesting take, a rarer point of view, about a woman who aided the other side.

Eloquently written and researched, Ewen paints a picture of a complicated woman with ambition and vulnerabilities doing what she needs to survive. I really enjoyed this e-book and getting a glimpse into what might have transpired with the more wealthy in this dark period.

Title: The Queen of Paris
Author: Pamela Binnings Ewen
Genre: Historical fiction
Rating: 4 out of 5

Coco Chanel doesn’t care about the war. She cares about keeping her secrets and the rights to her legendary perfume. But the Nazis have other ideas, and when they occupy Paris during the war, Coco finds she has much more at stake than she ever imagined. And even more secrets to hide.

I love a good historical fiction read, although the subject of this was a little bit outside my wheelhouse. An interesting look at how Coco grew up—and how she became the icon she became. The writing was vivid and well-done, but the character herself was a bit off-putting to me, being mainly focused on herself and her concerns, with no self-awareness or interest in anything outside her own little bubble.

Pamela Binnings Ewen lives outside New Orleans. The Queen of Paris is her newest novel.

(Galley courtesy of Blackstone Publishing in exchange for an honest review.)

THE QUEEN OF PARIS was an interesting story about what Coco Chanel had fought through, from her troubled childhood to her rise as “Queen of Paris” to her battle to keep her reputation and fashion house alive during WWII. There were times I wanted to laugh out loud at her behavior and other times I wanted to smack her. It’s always fascinating to peek behind the curtain into the lives of fashion icons. The story was written beautifully and clearly well researched.

Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel was one of the founders of Chanel No. 5 perfume. One day, she received a notice that one of her former business partners, who owned 90% of the company, had stolen her perfume formula to create in the United States. She must figure out a way to prevent him from stealing her perfume. At the same time, World War II has started, with Germany taking over Paris. Coco gets involved when a close relative is taken as a prisoner of war. She has to take many dangerous risks to save her company and her family.

There were some flashbacks throughout the first half of the book to when Coco was a young adult. These were the only parts that were told in first person point of view, from Coco’s perspective. She seemed like a different person from the savvy business woman she was in the 1940s. These flashbacks did serve a purpose to show what Coco’s early life, and a life changing romance, were like. However, I didn’t like that she seemed like a completely different character from the woman she became in the 1940s.

I was surprised at some of the twists in the story. I didn’t think it was true because some things were quite scandalous and outrageous. At the end of the novel, there was an author’s note that talks about the parts of the story that were based on historical documents. Coco Chanel was a spy during WWII, though her exact missions aren’t clear. I had no idea that this famous designer had lived such a wild life.

This was a fascinating novel about Coco Chanel’s life

Thank you Blackstone Publishing for providing a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This was everything I thought it would be. Just enough historical fiction, keeping the primary focus on Coco Chanel, the glitz and glam you would expect, with a touch of romance and the creative storytelling to keep it suspenseful. So many intriguing things I learned and had me thinking in awe of this magnificent woman. If you are captivated as much as I am with this Chanel No. 5 beauty, this is a must read and one that will linger in your mind for long after you've finished the story. A solid 4.5 stars from me.

Thank you so much Blackstone Publishing & NetGalley for my complimentary eARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

I've been a big fan of Coco Chanel for many years. The more I read about the fashion icon - the more I fall in love with her personality, strength, stubbornness, and big loving heart. Coco's intelligence and willingness to survive fascinates me and can't get enough of her life story.

"The Queen of Paris" is a wonderful novel that shades more lights on Coco's years during the great war, especially her collaboration with Nazi. The author did a great job explaining the action Coco had to take in order to save herself, her loved ones, and her business during the difficult years of the war.

As I read many books about the enchanting mademoiselle Coco, a lot of facts are already known to me, however, the part about the association with Nazi was extremely fascinating and informative. Thank you NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for an advanced copy of the novel and Pamela Binnings Ewen for a wonderful story of The Queen of Paris.

I love Chanel No.5. I love the logo. The two C's back to back. I love Chanel's mascara. I wish I could afford a purse. Anyway, I jumped at the chance when Netgalley and the publisher let me read this book about Chanel for a review.
The book starts out with Coco at the Ritz just after WWII, watching as a mob punishes women who collaborated with Nazis while they held Paris. Coco is waiting for them to come and take her. I was surprised. I had absolutely no idea Coco was a collaborator. While the Nazis held Paris and the French citizens starved she lived well. She spied for the Nazis ostensibly to save for son and yes I probably would have done the same thing to save my child but she did so much more than that. She had to leave Paris. People have long memories. She was saved because she also inspired love in people but she came off as very selfish. She was abandoned by her father and had a rough childhood but you can still care more for those around you, your servants. On the whole, I really liked the book. I was interested in the characters the whole way through the book and wanted to know what happened next. I knew nothing about Coco Chanel and now I want to know more. I was entertained and forgot about being quarantined.

The Queen of Paris by Pamela Binnings Ewen is a brief snapshot of Coco Chanel's life in Nazi occupied Paris. Ewen does a phenomenal job of weaving an incredibly interesting story about a person who I found, to be honest, quite detestable. I am eager to read more by her!

Thank you, NetGalley for my review copy.

I thought to give this book a chance, it is a different kind of historical fiction based on a controversial figure than I am used to but it was hard to get into. It was written very well but it was hard to keep my interest.

interesting look at choices that are made during wartime in order to survive. This book evidences that while we might like black/white scenarios, during difficult, especially, most decisions are in a grey area.

The Queen of Paris looks at the life of Coco Chanel during the Nazi occupation of Paris during World War II. Coco Chanel makes the perfect protagonist – a complicated business woman that will do anything to retain control of her perfume business, even if that means cooperating with the Nazi’s. Coco lives at the Ritz in Paris, which became the headquarters of high ranking German officers. She is recruited as a spy for the Germans, but her motivations are quite complex.
Coco is a fascinating character and those that wish to learn more of her motives and actions during World War II will enjoy the book – she comes alive in the book. The author does a good job describing her flawed character and ugliness of the time period. I have read other books about her and this was one of the best.
Thanks to Blackstone Publishing and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review the book.

Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!

Gabrielle Chanel has been enjoying success as a designer and creator of the legendary Chanel No. 5 perfume, until she learns that her longtime business partner, Pierre Wertheimer, has taken the formula and plans to develop the perfume in America. Coupled with the Germans recent occupation of France, Chanel's livelihood, fortune, and brand is at stake.

The novel jumps between two periods in Chanel's life -- as younger woman growing up orphaned and then befriended by Boy Capel, eventually launching her line, and then as the more established designer living in Nazi-occupied France. Binnings Ewen's prose is wonderful, capturing the decadence and illusion of Chanel's lifestyle.

Prior to reading this novel, I had minimal knowledge about Coco Chanel as a person outside of hearing the claim that Ms. Chanel was a Nazi spy. What Binnings Ewen does with this well-researched historical fiction is present a fuller picture as to the why Chanel was a Nazi spy. Mostly set during the late 1930s/early 1940s of Nazi-occupied France, Binnings Ewen presents the idea that Chanel's actions were to prevent her business from failing, specifically losing control of and the formula of Chanel No. 5 to her business partner, Pierre Wertheimer. It's important to note that Binnings Ewen doesn't paint Chanel as a sympathetic character; she simply imagined how Chanel acted to survive, allowing readers to reflect on the designer's legacy.

I have read many book on Coco Chanel and this is by far one of my favorites. The author writes with such detail, you can't help but get drawn into Chanel's world. It has already become one of my favorite books to recommend to friends and family.

There is so much to Coco Chanel’s story that amazes me. She’s of course known for her contributions to fashion including the infamous Chanel No. 5 and the Little Black Dress, but she was also at one time a little orphan girl named Gabrielle who grew up to be a Nazi spy. While this book is primarily set during Workd War II, the focus remains on Chanel and her part in it. I have also read Mademoiselle Chanel by C.W. Gortner but enjoyed this book far more because I felt that the narrative was more descriptive and intriguing.

Thank you Netgalley, Blackstone Publishing and Pamela Binnings Ewen for free e-ARC in return of my honest review.

Coco Chanel is a very controversial figure in history. Acknowledged fashion designer, seamstress, business women and creator of the most sold perfume in the World, Chanel #5, She is also a possible Nazi-collaborator and traitor of France. Or she is a member of French Resistance. She is also a mother of a son who is was a Prisoner of War in Nazi camps. Her story will always be fascinating as we probably will never know the truth.

First of all, I am biased as I love Chanel, as a designer and as a historical figure. No matter who she was, I believe her to be a strong-willed woman and one of a kind seamstress. Thanks to Chanel, women started to wear pants ans said goodbye to uncomfortable garments.

I enjoyed reading The Queen of Paris. I feel like Pamela Binnings Ewen did a great job building Chanel's character from all the information available. The volume of research the author did is enormous. Ewen choose to explore Chanel's war years in Ritz, Paris, her struggle to save her son from Nazi camp and her battle for her perfume, Chanel #5. The author manages to show Chanel's stubbornness and desire to win through the pages. Chanel came alive in this book.

As for the plot - I find it quite interesting and intriguing at parts. It made me ask questions to myself about patriotism, motherhood and protection of one''s intellectual property.

if you love historical fiction, please give it a go, you would find some interesting facts and their interpretations.

Queen of Paris was so much better than I expected. It moved so quickly and I enjoyed the fast pace. First, I wonder how much was actually "real" so now I need to read a biography of Coco to learn what what she was really like after she left the orphanage/convent. Something tells me I am going to prefer this story based on the truth!!!
I wore Chanel No. 5 and it was my favorite perfume 60 years ago. I thought that was the only kind to wear. After all, my mother had worn it for years!!!!! I was familiar with Chanel's dresses, etc and remembered her as the fashion designer who designed "the littlel black dress." and always had to have pearls! It just seems like that bit of Coco history never dies.
It was interesting how Ms. Ewen developed Coco over the years. I never once thought she was selfish or snobbish. I just think she enjoyed the upper class life, but she still remembered where she came from and how poor she was at one point. I was proud of her for her hard work and did feel sad that she only got 10% of her company even though the dresses had her name and her perfume carried her name also. Yes, it was all hers, but noone realized it. So glad she even fought for it.
I realy enjoyed the descriptions of France and learned about the high ranking Nazis taking over the Ritz and Paris. This is my latest genre and it amazes me what people went through during World War II.
Thank you NetGalley for letting me have an ARC and I really did enjoy it.

This book is great! Would definitely recommend. Thanks so much to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

The name Coco Chanel evokes thoughts of high end designer wear and the classic fragrance, Chanel No. 5. Not many who adore the products know the history behind the woman whose name is synonymous with classic high style, nor the vile associations she forged to keep her company and herself alive during World War II.
Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel was born poor and abandoned along with her sisters at a convent at a young age. After she aged out of sheltering there, she learned to use any means possible to make the right associations, leading to friends in high places. She began with a career as an entertainer of sorts, which led to the role of mistress of one after another wealthy young man. During this time she began to design hats for other women who traveled in her circle. Quickly displaying a head for business, she moved from casual hat designer to budding entrepreneur.
She was a well established haute couture designer by the time World War II began. The Nazis arrived in Paris, and rather than join the resistance, or take leave to the country, she forged alliances with those who would protect her while she lived in close quarters with German leadership at the Hotel Ritz. Particularly friendly with Baron (Freiherr) Hans Günther von Dincklage, her association with him may have been the catalyst to serve as a spy for the Germans. Her politics were aligned with theirs in several significant instances, and while it was not established until well after the war, evidence did emerge proving that she was a collaborator.
Her associations were also cultivated for her personal benefit, as she sought to have control of her company taken away from other partners and given to her alone. The business aspects of her story reveal the ruthless and determined personality that provided her means to security and success throughout a tumultuous career.
Was she a likeable protagonist in this historical fiction? The reader will have to decide. Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC and opportunity to provide this review.
#NetGalley #thequeenofparis

A fascinating tale of what the life of Coco Chanel may have been during the German occupation of Paris during WWII. The story is compelling and beautifully written, however I found myself feeling nothing but disdain for Chanel. As a anti Semite and Nazi collaborator, doing whatever she needed to maintain her lifestyle, fight for her wealth and position and having complete disregard for what was happening around her, she appears to try to appear the victim. So disturbing to see of this side of the war, but an excellent read.

The Queen of Paris is a novel about Coco Chanel during WWII. We do get glimpses of her early life. Her mother died when she was young. Her father abandoned her at a convent after that. She had a horrible early life. Then she becomes a mistress to a wealthy older man and begins an affair with one of his friends. We find out Coco was very complicated. She was very vain, had a drug addiction to morphine, gave up the son she had due to the men she was involved with, was anti-Semitic, had a relationship with a German higher-up, lived with Gestapo in the same hotel, and became a spy for the Germans. The only reason I continued reading? The author did a wonderful job in convincing me that her redeemable quality was the fact that she loved the son that she could never claim was hers. Some of the things she did was for her son. Thank you to Netgalley and Blackstone Publishing for the copy. All opinions expressed are my own.