Book Review: ‘The Paris Model: A Novel’ By Alexander Joel

Grace Woods grew up in Australia not far from Sydney. She lives on a farm and has dreams of a live away from here. She dates Jack until he’s called away to WWII. Before he leaves he asks her to wait for him. She does and five years later he finally returns and she agrees to marry him, even though she knows she shouldn’t. It turns out he is not the man he was before the war.

When Grace goes to get a dress she’s offered a chance to model for Dior, who has broke big in Paris and is expanding. Grace is a striking woman and agrees to do it. She’s a hit and soon gets an offer to go to Paris to work for Dior. She tells Jack she is leaving. And she also learns a shocking truth about her father before she leaves.

Grace is a hit with Dior and gets to live the good life. She’s also searching for an old family friend who went missing during the war. She also has suitors vying for her hand. No one knows she’s still married to Jack. And then there comes along Philippe. He has questionable tastes but she falls for him. She then learns a shocking secret about him and soon undertakes a dangerous mission that puts her life in danger and that of her unborn child.

Based on a real life person, this debut historical novel is a stellar debut. Anything set in Paris is a good read. The story also includes cameos by Jackie O and Julia Child along with fashion icon Dior. With twists and turns, the story keeps the reader engaged throughout the story.

You can pick up The Paris Model in stores on Tuesday, September 1st.