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61 pages 2 hours read

Stephanie Dray

The Women of Chateau Lafayette

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The Women of Chateau Lafayette by Stephanie Dray is a multi-timeline historical fiction novel that recounts the intertwined and trepidatious lives of three women across four different wars through their connection to Chavaniac, the famous castle of the revolutionary hero Lafayette. In the 18th century, Adrienne de Noailles supports her husband, Lafayette, during the French and American Revolutions. In the 20th century, Beatrice Chanler transforms Chavaniac into a haven for orphans amidst World War I. During World War II, Marthe Simone employs her skills to forge documents for persecuted children while battling personal and external conflicts. The novel depicts alcohol addiction, suicidal ideation, and antisemitic sentiments reflective of Nazi ideology.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Stephanie Dray's The Women of Chateau Lafayette receives praise for its richly detailed historical narrative and compelling portrayal of strong women across different eras. However, some readers find the multiple timelines confusing and the pacing uneven. Overall, it’s heralded for its ambitious scope and emotional depth, though best for patient readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Women of Chateau Lafayette?

A reader who enjoys The Women of Chateau Lafayette by Stephanie Dray would likely appreciate historical fiction with strong female protagonists and intricate narratives spanning different time periods. Fans of The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah or All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr will find similar themes and emotional depth.

Book Details
Pages

576

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

France • 18th Century

Publication Year

2021

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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