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​​​​​Based on the true World War II story of the heroic librarians at the American Library in Paris, this is an unforgettable story of romance, friendship, family, and the power of literature to bring us together, perfect for fans of The Lilac Girls and The Paris Wife.

Paris, 1939: Young and ambitious Odile Souchet has it all: her handsome police officer beau and a dream job at the American Library in Paris. When the Nazis march into Paris, Odile stands to lose everything she holds dear, including her beloved library. Together with her fellow librarians, Odile joins the Resistance with the best weapons she has: books. But when the war finally ends, instead of freedom, Odile tastes the bitter sting of unspeakable betrayal.

Montana, 1983: Lily is a lonely teenager looking for adventure in small-town Montana. Her interest is piqued by her solitary, elderly neighbor. As Lily uncovers more about her neighbor’s mysterious past, she finds that they share a love of language, the same longings, and the same intense jealousy, never suspecting that a dark secret from the past connects them.

A powerful novel that explores the consequences of our choices and the relationships that make us who we are - family, friends, and favorite authors - The Paris Library shows that extraordinary heroism can sometimes be found in the quietest of places.

Book Title: The Paris Library: A Novel

Author: Janet Skeslien Charles

Genre: Historical Fiction, World War II Fiction, Romance

Synopsis:

The Paris Library is a captivating historical novel set during World War II that tells the story of Odile Souchet, a young librarian at the American Library in Paris. In the midst of the Nazi occupation, Odile risks her life to protect the library's books and help those in need. Along the way, she discovers the power of literature to uplift and inspire, even in the darkest of times.

Main Characters:

• Odile Souchet: A young and passionate librarian at the American Library in Paris. She is determined to protect the library's books and help those in need, even at great personal risk.
• Paul, a bookbinder and member of the Resistance: Odile's love interest who shares her passion for books and helping others.
• Lila, a Jewish girl who seeks refuge at the library: Odile's friend and ally who is hiding from the Nazis.

Themes:

• The power of literature: The novel explores how books can provide solace, hope, and inspiration, even in the most difficult times.
• The importance of courage and resilience: Odile and the other characters in the novel demonstrate incredible courage and resilience in the face of adversity.
• The beauty of friendship and love: The novel highlights the importance of friendship and love, which can help us overcome great challenges.

Why Read The Paris Library:

• Historical Accuracy: Charles' novel is meticulously researched, bringing to life the atmosphere of Paris during the Nazi occupation with vivid detail.
• Compelling Characters: Odile and the supporting cast are well-developed and relatable characters, making it easy for readers to connect with their struggles and triumphs.
• Emotional Depth: The novel delves into the complex emotions of its characters, exploring themes of love, loss, hope, and resilience.
• Literary Insights: Charles' writing is filled with insightful observations about the power of literature and its ability to shape lives.

The Paris Library is a powerful and moving story that captures the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. It is a tribute to the power of literature and the indomitable spirit of those who fought to preserve it.