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lynnuwatson's review against another edition
4.0
The characters made this story. Society vs lower class. What we see is not always the reality. Will keep you reading past your bedtime.
I especially loved the first line of this book: “Bloody lipstick.” Kathleen Whitford yanked a handkerchief from her handbag and rubbed off the uneven line of Sequin Red curving over her lip."
I especially loved the first line of this book: “Bloody lipstick.” Kathleen Whitford yanked a handkerchief from her handbag and rubbed off the uneven line of Sequin Red curving over her lip."
english_lady03's review against another edition
3.0
I've read one other novel by J'nell Cieselski, but this is her first published by Thomas Nelson. What I remember from her last one was a smart and spunky heroine who gets involved with an unconventional hero during WWI.
The Socialite is set in 1940 in the midst of occupied Paris, and delivers another smart and sophisticated heroine who gets thrown into the midst of the war. This time though, its not by her own choice. Her sole intention is to find her sister and bring her home, but soon learns that's not going to be an easy matter when she discovers Ellie has become the mistress to a Nazi officer and Barrett Anderson (literally) crashes into her life.
Chaos ensues providing an engaging read with espionage, the Underground Resistance and the characters having to navigate an increasingly dangerous set of circumstances as well as their burgeoning attraction.
At one point the sister get invited to Hitler's country retreat, meeting him and most of the German High Command. Having to hide your true feelings and intent in the heart of the dragon's lair is no easy task.
The Socialite presents a realistic view of the war, the sacrifices people had to make, but also the incredible courage involved. It also caries some interesting themes about how people have to veil the truth in the midst of evil, and sometimes make compromises in order to survive.
Its not all a serious war story though. There's banter aplenty between Kat and Barrett, as well as her sister and her boyfriend. Kat's internal monologue provide some of the best humorous interludes.
The characters also grow in a genuine way: its not just something we're told but can actually see.
I gave a lower rating for a few reasons. One was that there were a few things that came over as a little cliched or not entirely credible, second was that the story got a bit bogged down in its own complexity at times.
Finally, the Americanisms kind of got to me, coming from both the British and German characters. I know they have to make it understandable for the American audience, but I sometimes wonder, is it so hard to learn some words for things used in Europe? Rather then having European characters use terms and phrases that, honestly, make them less credible.
I could not really get past the reference to Kat's father being in a 'pushchair' at the end. That's a wheelchair surely? A 'pushchair' in Britain basically means one of those pram type efforts that babies and toddlers sit in.
Yeah, I keep imagining one of those.
Recommended for anyone who likes Historical Novels with strong female leads, or World War 2 fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The Socialite is set in 1940 in the midst of occupied Paris, and delivers another smart and sophisticated heroine who gets thrown into the midst of the war. This time though, its not by her own choice. Her sole intention is to find her sister and bring her home, but soon learns that's not going to be an easy matter when she discovers Ellie has become the mistress to a Nazi officer and Barrett Anderson (literally) crashes into her life.
Chaos ensues providing an engaging read with espionage, the Underground Resistance and the characters having to navigate an increasingly dangerous set of circumstances as well as their burgeoning attraction.
At one point the sister get invited to Hitler's country retreat, meeting him and most of the German High Command. Having to hide your true feelings and intent in the heart of the dragon's lair is no easy task.
The Socialite presents a realistic view of the war, the sacrifices people had to make, but also the incredible courage involved. It also caries some interesting themes about how people have to veil the truth in the midst of evil, and sometimes make compromises in order to survive.
Its not all a serious war story though. There's banter aplenty between Kat and Barrett, as well as her sister and her boyfriend. Kat's internal monologue provide some of the best humorous interludes.
The characters also grow in a genuine way: its not just something we're told but can actually see.
I gave a lower rating for a few reasons. One was that there were a few things that came over as a little cliched or not entirely credible, second was that the story got a bit bogged down in its own complexity at times.
Finally, the Americanisms kind of got to me, coming from both the British and German characters. I know they have to make it understandable for the American audience, but I sometimes wonder, is it so hard to learn some words for things used in Europe? Rather then having European characters use terms and phrases that, honestly, make them less credible.
I could not really get past the reference to Kat's father being in a 'pushchair' at the end. That's a wheelchair surely? A 'pushchair' in Britain basically means one of those pram type efforts that babies and toddlers sit in.
Yeah, I keep imagining one of those.
Recommended for anyone who likes Historical Novels with strong female leads, or World War 2 fiction.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
beastreader's review against another edition
4.0
I loved this book. Right from the moment I picked up this book until the last page, I was swept up into this world and the lives of Kat, Ellie, and Barrett.
Kat is definitely the voice of reason. Whereas, her sister, Ellie was living in a bubble. The war was on their doorstep and they were walking through it but yet Ellie just wanted to live in the moment with planning parties and enjoying the luxury of dating a high ranking military man.
Barrett is a gentleman, not to mention has tons of patience. He was tested over and over again but he never fully gave in to his anger. There is a bit of romance between Kat and Barrett. However, it was not the man focal point of the story. Which I liked a lot as this story is a historical story and not a romance one. I recommend this book to anyone who loves to read historical fiction books. J'Nell Ciesielski swept me away into the pages of this story with a rich storyline and engaging characters with The Socialite.
Kat is definitely the voice of reason. Whereas, her sister, Ellie was living in a bubble. The war was on their doorstep and they were walking through it but yet Ellie just wanted to live in the moment with planning parties and enjoying the luxury of dating a high ranking military man.
Barrett is a gentleman, not to mention has tons of patience. He was tested over and over again but he never fully gave in to his anger. There is a bit of romance between Kat and Barrett. However, it was not the man focal point of the story. Which I liked a lot as this story is a historical story and not a romance one. I recommend this book to anyone who loves to read historical fiction books. J'Nell Ciesielski swept me away into the pages of this story with a rich storyline and engaging characters with The Socialite.
bookswritingandmore's review against another edition
4.0
Kat Whitford was the good daughter. She was the one who could be counted on and who obeyed her father's wishes. Ellie was her sister. She ran away to Nazi occupied France and Kat was determined to get her back before she got herself killed.
This book was definitely not what I was expecting but I was so happy with it! It grabbed my attention right from the start and I love that character Kat. She is such a true to life character and I saw so much of myself in same of her actions. I loved how bold and fearless she is with all the trouble her little sister causes. And Barrett what a wonderful strong male character for Kat to spar with and eventually fall head over heels for. Such wonderful characters set in the backdrop of Nazi occupied Paris.
I was completely blown away by this story and the characters too. This is historical fiction at its absolute best.
This book was definitely not what I was expecting but I was so happy with it! It grabbed my attention right from the start and I love that character Kat. She is such a true to life character and I saw so much of myself in same of her actions. I loved how bold and fearless she is with all the trouble her little sister causes. And Barrett what a wonderful strong male character for Kat to spar with and eventually fall head over heels for. Such wonderful characters set in the backdrop of Nazi occupied Paris.
I was completely blown away by this story and the characters too. This is historical fiction at its absolute best.
kdurham2's review against another edition
4.0
Check out the full review at Kritters Ramblings
Another World War II historical fiction, but this one felt unique and different. Two sisters are in Paris, France and one has become quite close to a Nazi general and the other is trying to get her sister out and return to the safety of their family home. With secrets galore this story is about love and family in a time that isn't easy for France and the world.
I have read many a book set both in this time and this place, but this one felt so different from the crowd. Through the eyes of the privileged, but they interact with all sorts of people in the book. This sounds weird to say, but I loved reading of their interactions with Hitler and his wife. The dinner at his home and their conversations were so interesting. I don't know that I have ever read a historical fiction book that had him included in the story. I believe it was right for the author to include him since her lover would obviously have interacted with him and I am thankful that the author gave us the reader that inside glimpse.
Another World War II historical fiction, but this one felt unique and different. Two sisters are in Paris, France and one has become quite close to a Nazi general and the other is trying to get her sister out and return to the safety of their family home. With secrets galore this story is about love and family in a time that isn't easy for France and the world.
I have read many a book set both in this time and this place, but this one felt so different from the crowd. Through the eyes of the privileged, but they interact with all sorts of people in the book. This sounds weird to say, but I loved reading of their interactions with Hitler and his wife. The dinner at his home and their conversations were so interesting. I don't know that I have ever read a historical fiction book that had him included in the story. I believe it was right for the author to include him since her lover would obviously have interacted with him and I am thankful that the author gave us the reader that inside glimpse.
reneesmith's review against another edition
4.0
Enjoyable & immersive! A bubbly story of society folks who oppose the Nazis for personal reasons & manage to best them while wearing beautiful clothing, frequenting clubs, swilling champagne, and, of course, falling in love. As I listened on Audible, this story reminded me of some of my favorite, melodramatic old movies, and the narrator was excellent. A fun storytelling experience!
(Though this is published by Thomas Nelson, I would not consider it Christian fiction. However, this did not affect my rating or enjoyment of the story.)
(Though this is published by Thomas Nelson, I would not consider it Christian fiction. However, this did not affect my rating or enjoyment of the story.)
100pagesaday's review against another edition
4.0
Ellie Whitford has escaped the confines of her stuffy and aristocratic English home and has found her place in Occupied Paris. Her boyfriend in the head of Culture and Social Movement for the SS. As a high ranking Nazi, Eric von Schlegel has riches and the power to give Ellie anything she wants and Ellie revels in party planning and creating social circles for Eric. Ellie's family wants her back, Kat Whitford has been sent to Paris to do just that. However, getting out of Occupied Paris is a lot harder than getting in, so Ellie's father made sure she had the help of Barrett Anderson, a Resistance Operative for the SIS. Barrett will be rewarded heavily for his return to England with the Whitford sisters. However, Ellie's situation with Eric becomes more dangerous and plans for extraction are hastened.
The Socialite is an exciting romance at the height of World War II. Well developed, thoughtful characters and an invigorating pace made The Socialite a moving read. Through Ellie, the influence of the Nazi's through art, music, theatre and social gatherings was shown. I was intrigued by the groups visit to Hitler's Bavarian home, The Berghof and how he surrounded himself with his ideals. Through Barrett, the strength of the Resistance and what they were willing to do to oppose the Nazis was highlighted. Kat's strength, hope and love for he sister was evident from the very beginning. Kat has always believed herself to be a dutiful daughter, stuck in doing exactly what her father wants. However, as soon as she arrives in Paris, Kat begins thinking for herself and realizing how capable she really is. I loved the slow blooming romance between Kat and Barrett as they complimented each other's attributes, learned how to trust and heal past wounds. Overall, a fast-paced, exhilarating romance through of different point of view during World War II.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
The Socialite is an exciting romance at the height of World War II. Well developed, thoughtful characters and an invigorating pace made The Socialite a moving read. Through Ellie, the influence of the Nazi's through art, music, theatre and social gatherings was shown. I was intrigued by the groups visit to Hitler's Bavarian home, The Berghof and how he surrounded himself with his ideals. Through Barrett, the strength of the Resistance and what they were willing to do to oppose the Nazis was highlighted. Kat's strength, hope and love for he sister was evident from the very beginning. Kat has always believed herself to be a dutiful daughter, stuck in doing exactly what her father wants. However, as soon as she arrives in Paris, Kat begins thinking for herself and realizing how capable she really is. I loved the slow blooming romance between Kat and Barrett as they complimented each other's attributes, learned how to trust and heal past wounds. Overall, a fast-paced, exhilarating romance through of different point of view during World War II.
This book was received for free in return for an honest review.
chelsbethbaute's review against another edition
3.0
The Socialite is a story of a a woman, Kat, doing whatever it takes to bring her sister home to the safety of England. I had high hopes for this book. It seemed like it had all the elements of a great historical fiction novel: a war torn family, hidden secrets, and a storyline about finding love. But somehow, despite all the elements, the story fell flat. I did not have an emotional connection to the characters, the dialogue was hard to follow at times, and I did not always follow the plot. There were so many opportunities for depth (they spent a weekend at Hitler's house as guests!) and yet...it did not reach past the surface. It was a fine book. My general feeling about it is just a sense of apathy.
randikaye's review against another edition
4.0
We all know that we are not supposed to judge a book by it's cover, but I must admit it was the cover that first drew me to this story... it was absolutely breathtaking. Upon reading the description and seeing who the publisher was, I knew that I had to add it to my to read list.
I must admit, The Socialite was not quite what I was expecting! Coming from Thomas Nelson, I expected it to be Christian fiction as is their normal. I really didn't see any Christian content at all in the story. That's not a bad thing, but if you pick up the book with that in mind, it's certainly something to remember. Despite that, it is still a fairly clean read... though perhaps not squeaky clean. There is talk of an affair, a visit to a brothel, and some pretty passionate kissing--- though nothing goes into great detail. There are also a few unsavory terms used towards the end as well. Again, I would still personally consider it clean... but certainly not what one might expect from this publisher, and therefor worth noting.
All that said, I still very much enjoyed this story. It had a great mix of drama, romance and action all in one. The action wasn't always the high paced action... but it was in those slower moments when you never knew quite what to expect that it kept me in it's grasp. I couldn't put it down, wanting to see what would happen to these sisters in the end. I always love a story that really allows me to picture exactly what is going on, and I felt like the descriptions in this one very much put me right in that time and place.
Overall, a really intriguing read and one that fans of historical romance--- and particularly those set during WWII--- are certainly going to want to add to their reading list.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley for consideration. All thoughts are 100% my own.
I must admit, The Socialite was not quite what I was expecting! Coming from Thomas Nelson, I expected it to be Christian fiction as is their normal. I really didn't see any Christian content at all in the story. That's not a bad thing, but if you pick up the book with that in mind, it's certainly something to remember. Despite that, it is still a fairly clean read... though perhaps not squeaky clean. There is talk of an affair, a visit to a brothel, and some pretty passionate kissing--- though nothing goes into great detail. There are also a few unsavory terms used towards the end as well. Again, I would still personally consider it clean... but certainly not what one might expect from this publisher, and therefor worth noting.
All that said, I still very much enjoyed this story. It had a great mix of drama, romance and action all in one. The action wasn't always the high paced action... but it was in those slower moments when you never knew quite what to expect that it kept me in it's grasp. I couldn't put it down, wanting to see what would happen to these sisters in the end. I always love a story that really allows me to picture exactly what is going on, and I felt like the descriptions in this one very much put me right in that time and place.
Overall, a really intriguing read and one that fans of historical romance--- and particularly those set during WWII--- are certainly going to want to add to their reading list.
**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley for consideration. All thoughts are 100% my own.
nruth's review
adventurous
challenging
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.0