This intriguing novel is set in 1946 Paris and follows the stories of Eve Archer and Kristina Belova, alternating between their past personal stories and then their meeting in 1946.
Eve Archer has come to Paris to find Serge Lavertu, the father she never knew, only to discover he is accused of not only selling a work of French art to Hitler but murdering the original owner in order to steal the painting. Kristina is a part of Serge’s past and is needed to testify on his behalf but there is an obstacle in the way.
The focus and detail of the art world from the 1920s through to the end of World War II is an interesting era. The art forgeries and the underworld associated with it are interesting – as was the flip side of saving art from the Nazis and then the restoration of art to the rightful owners after the war.
This novel has it all: a fast-paced story, spies, art, Parisian glamour, court trials and heartbreak. The characters are well drawn with each one showing such bravery and integrity. The language is lovely, and the structure of the novel adds to the tension.
Another brilliant historical narrative from Belinda Alexandra that challenges you to think about the untold stories of so many women who used their intelligence, skills and bravery to support the war on the home fronts and who endured unimaginable evils to protect their families and their country.
A great read.
Reviewed by Nicola Skinstad
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
I was fortunate to grow up in a beautiful part of Sydney, among ancient trees and abundant wildlife and to have parents – one Russian, one Australian – who gave me the freedom to let my imagination run wild.
I conjured up stories in my head as I revelled in the natural world around me or lay on my back on the grass and watched the clouds float by. Thanks to my parents I have a fascination with other cultures, world history, and why people do the things they do.
It was only after attending the University of California to complete my undergraduate degree that I was inspired enough by the other big dreamers around me to finally go for mine.
After one novel was rejected by every publisher in Australia, I went to lick my wounds in New York, where I had accepted a job with a conference company. Writing at 4 am on cold winter mornings, on planes, subway trains, and in airports, I finished the book that was to change everything: White Gardenia.
That book was sold in an auction between major publishers and resulted in a contract for a two-book deal. A dream! Finally, I was to be a published author. The rest, as they say, is history.
I currently live in Sydney, Australia, with my three black cats, Valentino, Versace and Gucci, and a garden full of the beautiful Australian wildlife I love so much. When I’m not writing, I enjoy flamenco and belly dancing, playing the piano and attempting to wrap my tongue around foreign languages.
I’m passionate about animal welfare and am an active member of several animal charities.
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