The Paris Model: A Novel

The Paris Model is the first novel by Australian author, Alexandra Joel. Having been raised in country NSW, when Grace's father, Alfred Woods dies, she takes over running their sheep and wheat property. A few short years later, she becomes Mrs Jack Osbourne, having married, as expected, the son of a local grazier on his return from the war. Less than three years later, Grace has walked away from that life to become a mannequin at Maison Christian Dior in Paris.

Not just in the City of Light to pursue her career aspirations, she is also searching for the most important man in her life. She meets another, finding love and excitement and danger. Grace is a strong and determined character, although she does have a tendency to flee from confrontations without waiting for an explanation, much to her psychological and emotional detriment.

The plot follows some predictable lines but also contains a few surprises and while, given the era and her occupation, Grace might well be expected to encounter some famous (and infamous) figures, the parade of cameos does feel a tiny bit "Forrest Gump". Joel does capture the era nicely and, with her protagonist based on an actual historical figure, this is marvellous historical fiction from a talented Australian author.

This unbiased review is from an uncorrected proof copy provided by Better Reading Preview and NetGalley and Harper Collins Australia