Kristin Harmel's The Paris Daughter has been praised for its vivid historical setting and emotional depth, offering readers a compelling tale of friendship and resilience. However, some critics argue that the plot can be predictable and the pacing uneven. Overall, it is a moving read that captures the trials of wartime motherhood.

The ideal reader for Kristin Harmel's The Paris Daughter enjoys historical fiction, particularly World War II-era narratives filled with emotional depth and resilience. Fans of Kristin Hannah's The Nightingale and Anthony Doerr's All the Light We Cannot See will likely appreciate the profound storytelling and evocative settings in this novel.

The Paris Daughter by Kristin Harmel is a historical fiction novel set during WWII, centering on artists Elise LeClair and Juliette Foulon, who navigate protecting their families during the Nazi occupation of Paris and confronting the trauma of loss. The story explores themes of maternal responsibility, the influence of art on identity, and the impact of trauma on memory. Topics include child loss, war trauma, and antisemitism.

Emotional / Melancholic / Contemplative / Mysterious / Heartwarming

**Elise LeClair**  
An artist and mother who is deeply dedicated to her creative work and maternal responsibilities, forming strong friendships and facing various personal challenges during the narrative.

**Juliette Foulon**  
A bookstore owner whose life is transformed by the events of the story, initially kind and welcoming, she grapples with personal loss and change over time.

**Mathilde LeClair/“Lucie Foulon”**  
The daughter of Elise, known as Lucie in the later stages of the novel, she is a talented artist who navigates her complex identity and relationships as she grows up.

**Ruth Levy**  
A Jewish widow and survivor of WWII who emigrates from Germany, she is a supportive figure to Elise and her experiences reflect the broader historical context.

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Part 1, Chapters 1-6

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Part 1, Chapters 7-12

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Part 2, Chapters 13-22

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Part 3, Chapters 23-28

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Part 3, Chapters 29-37

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