I can always count on Rhys Bowen to captivate me with a 5-star, unputdownable story! The Paris Assignment is just another fine example of her expertise. A perfect portrayal of historical fiction with a little bit of romance and suspense. This book had my emotions on speed dial! I could not even imagine the terrors of war, but I felt like I was right there sharing the same experience. The grief, loss, pain and anger were palpable and just ripped out my heart. It was very hard to read at times. I have so much respect and admiration for the brave men and women who dangerously infiltrated enemy territory and spied on the Nazis. It is an honor to be able to relive their stories, fiction or not. The book had a worthy ending and I am so glad for that, but I didn't want it to end. I really want to know what happens next. This will probably make more sense once you've read the book. And I highly recommend that you do!! I loved it!!

Thank you to the author, Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for allowing me digital access in exchange for my honest opinion!

I was so excited to read another book by Rhys Bowen. Bowen is the rare author who can vacillate from the often funny Her Royal Spyness novels to more serious fare like this book. The book is set in World War II and the main character has to navigate her role in the war as a woman, a wife, and a mother as well as witness to the horror of a terrible war. I love the history and character development in this book. I found myself rooting for everyone and Bowen describes that numbness that often accompanies tragedy well. I also liked the broader questions that this book asks about sacrifice. The main character has to weigh the bigger picture of winning a war with the recognition that innocent people she loves may not survive in service of that win. This book was a quick read and I found it hard to put down.

Synopsis: (as a fiction book)
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Londoner Madeleine Grant is studying at the Sorbonne in Paris when she marries charismatic French journalist Giles Martin. As they raise their son, Olivier, they hold on to a tenuous promise for the future. Until the thunder of war sets off alarms in France. Staying behind to join the resistance, Giles sends Madeleine and Olivier to the relative safety of England, where Madeleine secures a job teaching French at a secondary school. Yet nowhere is safe. After a devastating twist of fate resulting in the loss of her son, Madeleine accepts a request from the ministry to aid in the war effort. Seizing the smallest glimmer of hope of finding Giles alive, she returns to France. If Madeleine can stop just one Nazi, it will be the start of a valiant path of revenge. Though her perseverance, defiance, and heart will be tested beyond imagining, no risk is too great for a brave wife and mother determined to fight and survive against inconceivable odds.


This may be my first Rhys Bowen book but it will not be my last! I was utterly sucked into the story and its excellent characters and gripping plot line. My lovers of historical fiction will just inhale this book and I can see recommending it HIGHLY far and wide within and outside of my library.

5/5 stars

#shortbutsweetreviews

I love Rhys Bowen and have read all her books - this one was exceptional and I highly recommend it and her as an author!

The book was difficult to read at times. It was tragic with instances of abuse and torture. A realistic view of the horrors of war

I liked the main characters and would happily read all books by this author.
Enjoyable. Rich characterizations, realistic emotions, and a lovely story make for a can't-put-it-down emotional read. Oh my GOSH!!!!!! I read this emotionally charged, compelling book in one sitting.