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The Women of Chateau Lafayette
An epic saga from New York Times bestselling author Stephanie Dray based on the true story of an extraordinary castle in the heart of France and the remarkable women bound by its legacy in three of humanity's darkest hours
Most castles are protected by powerful men. This one by women...
A founding mother...
1774. Gently-bred noblewoman Adrienne Lafayette becomes her husband's political partner in the fight for American independence. But when their idealism sparks revolution in France and the guillotine threatens everything she holds dear, Adrienne must choose to renounce the complicated man she loves, or risk her life for a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
A daring visionary...
1914. Glittering New York socialite Beatrice Astor Chanler is a force of nature, daunted by nothing--not her humble beginnings, her crumbling marriage, or the outbreak of war. But after witnessing the devastation in France and delivering war-relief over dangerous seas, Beatrice takes on the challenge of a lifetime: convincing America to fight for what's right.
A reluctant resistor...
1940. French school-teacher and aspiring artist Marthe Simone has an orphan's self-reliance and wants nothing to do with war. But as the realities of Nazi occupation transform her life in the isolated castle where she came of age, she makes a discovery that calls into question who she is, and more importantly, who she is willing to become.
Intricately woven and beautifully told, The Women of Chateau Lafayette is a sweeping novel about duty and hope, love and courage, and the strength we find from standing together in honor of those who came before us.
Most castles are protected by powerful men. This one by women...
A founding mother...
1774. Gently-bred noblewoman Adrienne Lafayette becomes her husband's political partner in the fight for American independence. But when their idealism sparks revolution in France and the guillotine threatens everything she holds dear, Adrienne must choose to renounce the complicated man she loves, or risk her life for a legacy that will inspire generations to come.
A daring visionary...
1914. Glittering New York socialite Beatrice Astor Chanler is a force of nature, daunted by nothing--not her humble beginnings, her crumbling marriage, or the outbreak of war. But after witnessing the devastation in France and delivering war-relief over dangerous seas, Beatrice takes on the challenge of a lifetime: convincing America to fight for what's right.
A reluctant resistor...
1940. French school-teacher and aspiring artist Marthe Simone has an orphan's self-reliance and wants nothing to do with war. But as the realities of Nazi occupation transform her life in the isolated castle where she came of age, she makes a discovery that calls into question who she is, and more importantly, who she is willing to become.
Intricately woven and beautifully told, The Women of Chateau Lafayette is a sweeping novel about duty and hope, love and courage, and the strength we find from standing together in honor of those who came before us.
574 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 30, 2021
About the author
Stephanie Dray
17 books3,913 followersSTEPHANIE DRAY is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal & USA Today bestselling author of historical women’s fiction. Her award-winning work has been translated into eight languages and tops lists for the most anticipated reads of the year. She lives with her husband, cats, and history books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,368 reviews
March 30, 2021
This is bold, exciting historical fiction: not a steady biographical march along a timeline in the past, but an imaginative splicing of three historical time periods linked by place (a French castle) and theme (the centuries-long fight for democratic ideals). Our heroines are a WWII schoolteacher turned resistance fighter, a WWI socialite turned diplomatic powerhouse, and a French revolutionary turned American Founding Mother, all linked by the home and legacy of America's favorite fighting Frenchman, Lafayette. A sensationally ambitious novel by Stephanie Dray, who pulls out every trick in her quiver to paint on a canvas this large, and makes it work, too. I had a chance to read this in draft form and ARC form for a cover quote, and I'd have loved this book whether I was friends with the author or not. Don't miss it!
May 19, 2021
4 solid stars for an absorbing historical fiction book.
This is a fairly long book, at 564 pages. It is set in 3 time periods in France: 1776-1807, 1914-1918 and 1939-1945. Most of the book takes place at the Chateau Lafayette in France.
There are 3 women portrayed:
Adrienne, wife of Lafayette
Beatrice, whose wealthy husband purchases the decrepit Chateau for her
Marthe, a fictional composite character based on orphans housed at the Chateau by Beatrice which she turns into an orphanage/school/medical facility. Beatrice calls it "the preventorium "
Each of these women is a strong character. Each of them overcomes incredible barriers to accomplish great things. I enjoyed this book but had to read it slowly to balance the 3 time periods and the characters in each period. It took me 12 days to read it.
Lafayette is still revered in the US today for his instrumental role in the Revolutionary war. Less well known are the hardships his wife endured--being imprisoned 2 separate times trying to protect her family and the Chateau.
Lafayette visited Niagara Falls, NY in 1825 and dined at the Red Coach Inn. The restaurant is still there and has a mural on the wall, showing Lafayette dining with friends.
Two quotes: Lafayette's 1774 wedding feast: "At the feast, the groom and I sat together in tall gilded chairs upon a festooned dais in the banquet hall whilst liveried servants brought gleaming platters with food in endless variety. Sugar -dusted pastries, steaming turtle soup, pureed asparagus, lettuces, snails, pates. Heaps of mussels, baked fish, sauced chicken. Sizzling beef, mint -laced mutton, a fat pheasant decorated with its tail feathers, medallions of veal on a bed of greens, and a roasted boar with an apple in its mouth. Then came the parade of pigeon eggs, pigeon bisque, pigeon pie, pigeon au gratin, pigeons in wine, and pigeon stuffed with songbird."
Beatrice, with Maxime, her lover: "But if you go back to the front now, you'll miss my birthday."
"I shouldn't have said it; after all, the last thing I wanted was for this man to think of me as a creature who aged. I wanted him to think of me like Paris--a timeless beauty dressing for romance with an evening visitor, her lights enveloped in a mantle or shade."
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway. Thank You Penguin Random House/ Berkley Publishing Group and Stephanie Dray.
This is a fairly long book, at 564 pages. It is set in 3 time periods in France: 1776-1807, 1914-1918 and 1939-1945. Most of the book takes place at the Chateau Lafayette in France.
There are 3 women portrayed:
Adrienne, wife of Lafayette
Beatrice, whose wealthy husband purchases the decrepit Chateau for her
Marthe, a fictional composite character based on orphans housed at the Chateau by Beatrice which she turns into an orphanage/school/medical facility. Beatrice calls it "the preventorium "
Each of these women is a strong character. Each of them overcomes incredible barriers to accomplish great things. I enjoyed this book but had to read it slowly to balance the 3 time periods and the characters in each period. It took me 12 days to read it.
Lafayette is still revered in the US today for his instrumental role in the Revolutionary war. Less well known are the hardships his wife endured--being imprisoned 2 separate times trying to protect her family and the Chateau.
Lafayette visited Niagara Falls, NY in 1825 and dined at the Red Coach Inn. The restaurant is still there and has a mural on the wall, showing Lafayette dining with friends.
Two quotes: Lafayette's 1774 wedding feast: "At the feast, the groom and I sat together in tall gilded chairs upon a festooned dais in the banquet hall whilst liveried servants brought gleaming platters with food in endless variety. Sugar -dusted pastries, steaming turtle soup, pureed asparagus, lettuces, snails, pates. Heaps of mussels, baked fish, sauced chicken. Sizzling beef, mint -laced mutton, a fat pheasant decorated with its tail feathers, medallions of veal on a bed of greens, and a roasted boar with an apple in its mouth. Then came the parade of pigeon eggs, pigeon bisque, pigeon pie, pigeon au gratin, pigeons in wine, and pigeon stuffed with songbird."
Beatrice, with Maxime, her lover: "But if you go back to the front now, you'll miss my birthday."
"I shouldn't have said it; after all, the last thing I wanted was for this man to think of me as a creature who aged. I wanted him to think of me like Paris--a timeless beauty dressing for romance with an evening visitor, her lights enveloped in a mantle or shade."
I won this book in a Goodreads giveaway. Thank You Penguin Random House/ Berkley Publishing Group and Stephanie Dray.
May 15, 2021
The Women of Chateau Lafayette by Stephanie Dray is a sweeping story about three women who guarded the Chavaniac castle where Gilbert du Motier, better known as the Marquis de Lafayette, was born on September 6, 1757. While the stories about each woman could have easily been the subject of its own novel, Dray expertly weaves them together to show the reader how the “spirit of Lafayette” inspired each of them.
Adrienne de Noailles was only 14 years old when she wed the 17-year-old Lafayette in 1774. While it was an arranged marriage, Adrienne was deeply devoted to Lafayette. She supported his fighting in both America and the French Revolution. She was known as a kind, gentle woman with the courage of a lion.
Beatrice Chanler, a former comedic stage actress who married the wealthy adventurer William Astor Chanler, was a real-life war relief worker. Along with Mr. J.C. Moffat, she formed the French Heroes Lafayette Memorial Fund to purchase Chateau Lafayette. The Lafayette Preventorium hired physicians, nurses, and teachers to care for and educate underprivileged and sick children. Author Dray was able to learn a great deal about this beautiful and fascinating woman when one of Beatrice’s grandsons shared family letters with her. Chanler was the only person to make seven war-time sea crossings to aid in relief efforts. She earned numerous awards for her philanthropic work including being decorated as a Chevalier of the Legion of Honor.
The third woman of Chateau Lafayette and the only fictional character is Marthe Simone, an orphan who was brought to the Preventorium by Beatrice as a child. While she longs to be an artist, Marthe is a teacher at the castle during World War II. Marthe is a tough character who reluctantly becomes part of the French resistance. She is constantly inspired by the strength of the women who have gone before her.
5-Stars. Book club recommended. While I have never been one to really enjoy LONG books, I loved this one. I listened to the Audible which is 23 hours and 55 minutes. The hardcover is 576 pages. I think it would have been even better if it had been a trilogy so the reader could enjoy even more about each of the three women.
Adrienne de Noailles was only 14 years old when she wed the 17-year-old Lafayette in 1774. While it was an arranged marriage, Adrienne was deeply devoted to Lafayette. She supported his fighting in both America and the French Revolution. She was known as a kind, gentle woman with the courage of a lion.
Beatrice Chanler, a former comedic stage actress who married the wealthy adventurer William Astor Chanler, was a real-life war relief worker. Along with Mr. J.C. Moffat, she formed the French Heroes Lafayette Memorial Fund to purchase Chateau Lafayette. The Lafayette Preventorium hired physicians, nurses, and teachers to care for and educate underprivileged and sick children. Author Dray was able to learn a great deal about this beautiful and fascinating woman when one of Beatrice’s grandsons shared family letters with her. Chanler was the only person to make seven war-time sea crossings to aid in relief efforts. She earned numerous awards for her philanthropic work including being decorated as a Chevalier of the Legion of Honor.
The third woman of Chateau Lafayette and the only fictional character is Marthe Simone, an orphan who was brought to the Preventorium by Beatrice as a child. While she longs to be an artist, Marthe is a teacher at the castle during World War II. Marthe is a tough character who reluctantly becomes part of the French resistance. She is constantly inspired by the strength of the women who have gone before her.
5-Stars. Book club recommended. While I have never been one to really enjoy LONG books, I loved this one. I listened to the Audible which is 23 hours and 55 minutes. The hardcover is 576 pages. I think it would have been even better if it had been a trilogy so the reader could enjoy even more about each of the three women.
April 12, 2021
Behind Every good man is a good woman, they say. However, what the saying should often say is next to every good man is often a good woman and, in Stephanie Dray's book, The Women of Chateau Lafayette, we met three of the most diligent, faithful, and courageous women one would care to meet. Brilliantly written with exhaustive research this book will make you keenly aware of the lengths and depths women went to work for freedom, deliverance, and a world where salvation and the right to life is one granted to all. How Ms Dray connects these women to the chateau forms the basis of the story which scans many generations. it was masterfully done and a tribute not only to the author but also to these gallant women who never gave up, never succumbed to the evil around them, but kept on pushing through to establish what was good and right.
There was Adrienne Lafayette, a quiet noble woman soon to become the bride of Marquis de Lafayette, who faces so many hardships and tragedies in her life. She sees her beloved husband go off to the soon to be new country that would become America, to fight for this burgeoning nation's freedom from an oftentimes cruel oppressor. She supports him fully as well as the principles she witnesses emerging from this new nation and waits patiently for his return knowing each day he might be killed. She witnesses the emerging hatred for the nobility in Paris, ready to explode in the soon to come bloody and heartless French revolution and once again shows not only her compassion and love, holding her family together, helping those in need, and worrying about her husband who has been thrown into prison. Coming so close to the guillotine herself, she learns that her grandmother, mother, and sister have been put to death and decided to follow her husband to prison. Begging for this to happen she brings her daughters with her and when permission is granted, she finally is able to be with the man she loves. Her beautiful spirit and nature make her beloved by the people of the countryside near the chateau, as she steps forward to counsel, give aid, and cherish all people. What a truly remarkable woman who started out being meek and mild but became a voice of reason and love!
There is Beatrice Chandler, a woman of the 1900's who despite coming from very humble beginnings, becomes the wife of wealthy and handsome, William A. Chandler, (the A standing for Astor). Beatrice was a modern woman, a showgirl for a time already being once married and divorced at a very young age, definitely scandalous in that age. Yet she was bright, bold, and daring, standing up for what she thought to be just, a fighter, a woman who let nothing stand in her way. Left adrift by her husband, who often took himself off to various place around the globe, she made her own way sometimes leaving her sons at home. When Beatrice had to face up to the war, she takes power in herself and turns the chateau into a children's hospital where she is also able to hide Jewish children. She meets and falls in love with a dashing French soldier, but even their love for each other, can't stop the powerful forces that move within Beatrice.
There is Marthe Simone, an orphan raised in the Chateau, reluctant to fight the winds of war, but finds herself, her strength, courage and resilience so needed in the times she faces. She becomes the young woman she was destined to be.
This powerful story, is long and detailed with precision and grace. It will bring these three women's lives together within the walls of the Chateau that they loved. If you love reading about forceful, tenacious, and strong women, set upon a difficult course in the times they lived, I heartily recommend this book to you.
There was Adrienne Lafayette, a quiet noble woman soon to become the bride of Marquis de Lafayette, who faces so many hardships and tragedies in her life. She sees her beloved husband go off to the soon to be new country that would become America, to fight for this burgeoning nation's freedom from an oftentimes cruel oppressor. She supports him fully as well as the principles she witnesses emerging from this new nation and waits patiently for his return knowing each day he might be killed. She witnesses the emerging hatred for the nobility in Paris, ready to explode in the soon to come bloody and heartless French revolution and once again shows not only her compassion and love, holding her family together, helping those in need, and worrying about her husband who has been thrown into prison. Coming so close to the guillotine herself, she learns that her grandmother, mother, and sister have been put to death and decided to follow her husband to prison. Begging for this to happen she brings her daughters with her and when permission is granted, she finally is able to be with the man she loves. Her beautiful spirit and nature make her beloved by the people of the countryside near the chateau, as she steps forward to counsel, give aid, and cherish all people. What a truly remarkable woman who started out being meek and mild but became a voice of reason and love!
There is Beatrice Chandler, a woman of the 1900's who despite coming from very humble beginnings, becomes the wife of wealthy and handsome, William A. Chandler, (the A standing for Astor). Beatrice was a modern woman, a showgirl for a time already being once married and divorced at a very young age, definitely scandalous in that age. Yet she was bright, bold, and daring, standing up for what she thought to be just, a fighter, a woman who let nothing stand in her way. Left adrift by her husband, who often took himself off to various place around the globe, she made her own way sometimes leaving her sons at home. When Beatrice had to face up to the war, she takes power in herself and turns the chateau into a children's hospital where she is also able to hide Jewish children. She meets and falls in love with a dashing French soldier, but even their love for each other, can't stop the powerful forces that move within Beatrice.
There is Marthe Simone, an orphan raised in the Chateau, reluctant to fight the winds of war, but finds herself, her strength, courage and resilience so needed in the times she faces. She becomes the young woman she was destined to be.
This powerful story, is long and detailed with precision and grace. It will bring these three women's lives together within the walls of the Chateau that they loved. If you love reading about forceful, tenacious, and strong women, set upon a difficult course in the times they lived, I heartily recommend this book to you.
November 23, 2021
A long and detailed historical saga of three courageous women. The book follows three generations of women surrounding Lafayette’s chateau in Chavaniac. The castle was the home of the Lafayette family during the French Revolution and later turned into an orphanage during WWI.
Adrienne is the wife of Gabriel Lafayette, and both figures influenced the French Revolution. Gabriel also fought for the independence of America. The book highlighted the bravery of Adrienne. She was a devoted wife and mother who had strong religious values. She was an intelligent woman who understood finances and politics and fought for equality of man.
Beatrice Chanler rose up from a confusing childhood and became an actress, singer, and artist. When she married a wealthy man in NYC, she could have lived a quiet life during the war years, but instead she chose to make a difference in WWI. She worked to persuade the US to join the war effort as well as opened an orphanage for sick children in Chavaniac, France.
Marthe is an orphan who grew up in the Lafayette orphanage. She is curious as to who her parents were. She is an aspiring artist as well as a teacher at the preventorium. She works to hide Jewish children during WWII by falsifying documents.
There was so much history included in this near 600 page novel. I learned a lot about these women and their unique contributions to modern society. However, the three timelines were too much to keep track of. Each storyline had many characters and historical references. By the time it circled back to each woman’s chapter, I had a hard time remembering where their story left off.
The timelines had some connection to each other, but they weren’t as progressively interwoven as I would have liked. There also wasn’t a strong pull in the plot to find out how it ends. I had to plow through the book, and it took me almost three weeks to finish.
At times, the this book felt more like a biography of the women. Although, it was interesting to find out how much of the book was based off of real events and people. Overall, a great pure historical read but not my favorite for a captivating historical fiction novel.
Adrienne is the wife of Gabriel Lafayette, and both figures influenced the French Revolution. Gabriel also fought for the independence of America. The book highlighted the bravery of Adrienne. She was a devoted wife and mother who had strong religious values. She was an intelligent woman who understood finances and politics and fought for equality of man.
Beatrice Chanler rose up from a confusing childhood and became an actress, singer, and artist. When she married a wealthy man in NYC, she could have lived a quiet life during the war years, but instead she chose to make a difference in WWI. She worked to persuade the US to join the war effort as well as opened an orphanage for sick children in Chavaniac, France.
Marthe is an orphan who grew up in the Lafayette orphanage. She is curious as to who her parents were. She is an aspiring artist as well as a teacher at the preventorium. She works to hide Jewish children during WWII by falsifying documents.
There was so much history included in this near 600 page novel. I learned a lot about these women and their unique contributions to modern society. However, the three timelines were too much to keep track of. Each storyline had many characters and historical references. By the time it circled back to each woman’s chapter, I had a hard time remembering where their story left off.
The timelines had some connection to each other, but they weren’t as progressively interwoven as I would have liked. There also wasn’t a strong pull in the plot to find out how it ends. I had to plow through the book, and it took me almost three weeks to finish.
At times, the this book felt more like a biography of the women. Although, it was interesting to find out how much of the book was based off of real events and people. Overall, a great pure historical read but not my favorite for a captivating historical fiction novel.
May 21, 2021
The Women of Chateau Lafayette by Stephanie Dray
Historical women’s fiction. Fictionalized but based on historical facts.
This story follows three separate timelines, around three different wars, and the women connected to the Chateau.
It’s dramatic. It’s heartbreaking. It’s tragic. It’s history.
A touch of hope and independence with the strength of several determined women.
The interwoven and similar stories make it difficult at times to remember where we are as each progresses. War. Why is there hate?
The stories are distinctive enough to clear up any confusion as it moves forward and the chapters are clearly labeled.
Oh, I admire the brave. They are empowering in their lives and losses.
I listened to the audio version narrated by Tavia Gilbert, Emma Bering, and Rachel Jacobs. There were clear differences between the voices which made the timeline switches a little easier to follow. The stress and hard times were clearly felt and heard.
Historical women’s fiction. Fictionalized but based on historical facts.
This story follows three separate timelines, around three different wars, and the women connected to the Chateau.
It’s dramatic. It’s heartbreaking. It’s tragic. It’s history.
A touch of hope and independence with the strength of several determined women.
The interwoven and similar stories make it difficult at times to remember where we are as each progresses. War. Why is there hate?
The stories are distinctive enough to clear up any confusion as it moves forward and the chapters are clearly labeled.
Oh, I admire the brave. They are empowering in their lives and losses.
I listened to the audio version narrated by Tavia Gilbert, Emma Bering, and Rachel Jacobs. There were clear differences between the voices which made the timeline switches a little easier to follow. The stress and hard times were clearly felt and heard.
August 31, 2020
Brilliantly executed and unforgettable. I loved it!
January 16, 2022
The Women of Chateau Lafayette tells three engrossing tales of the courage of women left behind when men go marching off to war. Three different women ,three different wars and three different challenges. Each woman will be called to action. She will have to face herself and ask do I have the strength and courage I need. The answers are revealed as each story unfolds.
Chronologically the first woman we meet is Adrienne Lafayette the young wife of the hero of both the American and French Revolutions. She plays a significant role in each War and has rightly earned the name Mother of two nations! How she faced imprisonment and even death of not only herself but also her children forms the basis of her story.
The next story occurs during WWI. It is the story of Beatrice Astor Chanler. Yes, those Astors! She is a real historical figure. Though Beatrice started life as little more than a street urchin, she changed the trajectory of her life by joining an acting troupe. She rose through the ranks to become a leading lady on Broadway. She attracted the eye of William.”Willie” Astor Chanler. No fool she, she married him! She now lived the life of wealth and privilege. When WWI broke out Beatrice was in France visiting Willie who had suffered a severe break to his leg. By this point the couple were the parents of two boys but the marriage was failing. On the trip back to Paris from the French coast where she went to bring back her sons, Beatrice saw firsthand the devastation and human cost of war. Especially to children. How could she return to the life of a socialite and ignore them? She begins work then and there to build her charity to bring comfort to the soldiers and a haven for the children of France.
Finally we have Marthe Simone the only fictitious character amongst the three. Though an invention of Ms. Dray’s imagination I feel she represents the thousand if not millions of women across Europe and the British isles who when called to action put their lives on the line to serve a greater cause. Marthe was an orphan found on the streets of France. She was brought to Chavaniac and was raised there. After the start of WWII Marthe is an adult working as a teacher at Chavaniac, she is also a gifted artist. The war only touches the castle lightly since it is located in the unoccupied Vichy part of France but when Germany extends the occupation to Vichy the privations and atrocities increase. Marthe finds she must make a choice. Stand by and do nothing or find a way to help Jewish families who are being rounded up and sent to camps. If she does this she must also prevent any harm coming to Chavaniac.
Stephanie Drey has done a flawless job crafting her characters. Each of the three are fully fleshed out with depth and authenticity. We feel we know them well. They are our friends. Drays incredible ability does not end there. With just a couple of sentences she tells us everything we need to know about each of the secondary characters. I have seen primary characters in books with a lot less development!
Despite the length of this review I have only touched lightly on each women’s challenge. Along each journey there will be many disappointments and triumphs. I have not even shown the importance that Chavaniac has to each of the women. For one it will be a haven to hide and keep her children safe. For another a place to care for sick and displaced children. And finally for one it will be a base of operations.
Lastly these three women can stand as role modals for what true female strength and courage looks like. I highly recommend this book for those who enjoy historically accurate fiction with strong female protagonists.
5 stars without reservation.
Chronologically the first woman we meet is Adrienne Lafayette the young wife of the hero of both the American and French Revolutions. She plays a significant role in each War and has rightly earned the name Mother of two nations! How she faced imprisonment and even death of not only herself but also her children forms the basis of her story.
The next story occurs during WWI. It is the story of Beatrice Astor Chanler. Yes, those Astors! She is a real historical figure. Though Beatrice started life as little more than a street urchin, she changed the trajectory of her life by joining an acting troupe. She rose through the ranks to become a leading lady on Broadway. She attracted the eye of William.”Willie” Astor Chanler. No fool she, she married him! She now lived the life of wealth and privilege. When WWI broke out Beatrice was in France visiting Willie who had suffered a severe break to his leg. By this point the couple were the parents of two boys but the marriage was failing. On the trip back to Paris from the French coast where she went to bring back her sons, Beatrice saw firsthand the devastation and human cost of war. Especially to children. How could she return to the life of a socialite and ignore them? She begins work then and there to build her charity to bring comfort to the soldiers and a haven for the children of France.
Finally we have Marthe Simone the only fictitious character amongst the three. Though an invention of Ms. Dray’s imagination I feel she represents the thousand if not millions of women across Europe and the British isles who when called to action put their lives on the line to serve a greater cause. Marthe was an orphan found on the streets of France. She was brought to Chavaniac and was raised there. After the start of WWII Marthe is an adult working as a teacher at Chavaniac, she is also a gifted artist. The war only touches the castle lightly since it is located in the unoccupied Vichy part of France but when Germany extends the occupation to Vichy the privations and atrocities increase. Marthe finds she must make a choice. Stand by and do nothing or find a way to help Jewish families who are being rounded up and sent to camps. If she does this she must also prevent any harm coming to Chavaniac.
Stephanie Drey has done a flawless job crafting her characters. Each of the three are fully fleshed out with depth and authenticity. We feel we know them well. They are our friends. Drays incredible ability does not end there. With just a couple of sentences she tells us everything we need to know about each of the secondary characters. I have seen primary characters in books with a lot less development!
Despite the length of this review I have only touched lightly on each women’s challenge. Along each journey there will be many disappointments and triumphs. I have not even shown the importance that Chavaniac has to each of the women. For one it will be a haven to hide and keep her children safe. For another a place to care for sick and displaced children. And finally for one it will be a base of operations.
Lastly these three women can stand as role modals for what true female strength and courage looks like. I highly recommend this book for those who enjoy historically accurate fiction with strong female protagonists.
5 stars without reservation.
October 16, 2020
This one deserves 6 stars or more. Seriously!! This is a masterpiece of historical fiction. And I don't say that lightly. Stephanie Dray has created an all-encompassing saga spanning three wars with three unforgettable women at its core. The immense scope of research, so seamlessly infused into Dray’s stunning prose, is mind-blowing. I simply can’t say enough good things about this brilliant novel.
January 19, 2023
“An epic saga based on the true story of a castle in the heart of France and the remarkable women bound by its legacy.”
What did I know of Lafayette? Apparently not enough. This is why I love Historical Fiction. I learn so much. Stephanie Dray in her notes tell us how she wanted to tell the story of America’s French founding mother, Adrienne Lafayette wife of Marquis deLafayette. Lafayette’s castle at Chavanic served as a monastery for Jewish children during the Holocaust.
This is the compelling story of three women in three different time lines connected to the same vision.
1774 Adrienne’s marries deLafayette and becomes his political partner. During the French Revolution, she must make her own decisions to denounce her husband or take consequences.
1914 Beatrice Canler was a struggling actress who marries William Astor Canler. Beatrice sees the devastation of the war especially on the children and plights to convert Chavanic into a hospital for children.
1940 Martine Simon is the fictional character in the story. She was one of the children that Beatrice brought to Chavanic as a young orphan. Martha fights for the Resistance and the Jewish chlidren.
This book is beautifully written with wonderful notes about the research that went into this book.
Historical Fiction at its finest.
What did I know of Lafayette? Apparently not enough. This is why I love Historical Fiction. I learn so much. Stephanie Dray in her notes tell us how she wanted to tell the story of America’s French founding mother, Adrienne Lafayette wife of Marquis deLafayette. Lafayette’s castle at Chavanic served as a monastery for Jewish children during the Holocaust.
This is the compelling story of three women in three different time lines connected to the same vision.
1774 Adrienne’s marries deLafayette and becomes his political partner. During the French Revolution, she must make her own decisions to denounce her husband or take consequences.
1914 Beatrice Canler was a struggling actress who marries William Astor Canler. Beatrice sees the devastation of the war especially on the children and plights to convert Chavanic into a hospital for children.
1940 Martine Simon is the fictional character in the story. She was one of the children that Beatrice brought to Chavanic as a young orphan. Martha fights for the Resistance and the Jewish chlidren.
This book is beautifully written with wonderful notes about the research that went into this book.
Historical Fiction at its finest.
November 23, 2020
This felt like a really, really long book. It was interesting, but for some reason, very difficult to keep straight the three women of the three time periods. I almost wish I’d read the authors notes at the end before I read the book, as it outlined each woman separately, giving some chronology to their experiences, rather than flipping back and forth between women and time periods constantly.
I was most interested in Adrienne LaFayette., and, as mentioned, the author’s notes really filled her in nicely.
I’m not sure if it was my frame of mind at the time of reading, or if this truly is a rather slow moving book. I may pick it up again in the future and see how it feels.
Actual rating 3.5; since I can only give whole stars, unfortunately I’m going to round down to three - can’t quite push it to four.
Thanks to NetGalley for the review copy.
I was most interested in Adrienne LaFayette., and, as mentioned, the author’s notes really filled her in nicely.
I’m not sure if it was my frame of mind at the time of reading, or if this truly is a rather slow moving book. I may pick it up again in the future and see how it feels.
Actual rating 3.5; since I can only give whole stars, unfortunately I’m going to round down to three - can’t quite push it to four.
Thanks to NetGalley for the review copy.
March 26, 2021
This remarkable book connects the lives of three women across centuries, from the American Revolution to The Great War to World War II, through an elegant and historic French castle. The latest by epic historical fiction writer Stephanie Dray is out Tuesday -- do not miss it!
June 16, 2023
This book gets a fat 4.5 out of 5 stars.
I was taken on THREE JOURNEYS and they were so well worth it. From the American and French Revolutions to the First World War and onto the Second World War, the stories of Adrienne Lafayette, Beatrice Furlaud (?), and Marthe were awe-inspiring.
These women did everything they could to fight for what they believed was right and they’re incredible human beings for what they did during their lives.
I definitely shed a couple of tears at the end but I felt so inspired and empowered by these women who risked their lives for the betterment of their nations and the people they loved.
An incredible read.
I was taken on THREE JOURNEYS and they were so well worth it. From the American and French Revolutions to the First World War and onto the Second World War, the stories of Adrienne Lafayette, Beatrice Furlaud (?), and Marthe were awe-inspiring.
These women did everything they could to fight for what they believed was right and they’re incredible human beings for what they did during their lives.
I definitely shed a couple of tears at the end but I felt so inspired and empowered by these women who risked their lives for the betterment of their nations and the people they loved.
An incredible read.
April 28, 2021
Book 9 of 2021:It was very intriguing at times, but difficult for me to plow through. Might have just been me. Sometimes I’m in the mood, sometimes not so much. It is about an orphanage run during the war in France and three different generations surrounding this facility. It’s a historical fiction novel and I’m always interested in war, history, and orphanages. Well, relationships too. This one hit on the ups and downs of multi generation relationships, too. It took me all month. I’m behind now. Lol. Good thing it’s patio reading season.
December 14, 2020
Review TK
May 31, 2021
Dual and tripple time-line books are my favorite read however The Women of Chateau Lafayette was a bit difficult for me to get through. This triple time piece could have easily been three separate novels. I felt separating the three story lines would have produced a more enjoyable, less confusing read. Certainly a shorter more cohesive novel.
November 17, 2021
I read The Women of Chateau Lafayette with two hats on, as both a reader and an author of historical fiction.
As a reader, the story engaged me early on through the three tenacious characters that give their first-person accounts, chapter about. We meet Adrienne at the age of fourteen as she marries Lafayette, a man of strong moral principle, who fights in the American War of Independence and later tries to prevent bloodshed in the French Revolution. We meet Beatrice Chanler in her thirties, living separately from her adventurer husband, as she organises charitable relief during World War One and sets up a home for underprivileged children in Chateau Lafayette. And we meet Marthe, an orphan who has grown up in the Chateau and finds herself trying to protect its inmates during World War Two. Gradually you begin to spot the overlaps between their stories, and watch as each of the three protagonists grows stronger and more fearless in the face of challenges.
As an author, I spent much of the time mentally prostrating myself at Stephanie Dray’s feet. She is very much a writer’s writer. The research she has done for each of the three time periods is phenomenal. She wears it lightly, but the facts are there, setting a vivid backdrop for her plot and characters. Not a single note jars. It’s hard to keep readers equally interested in three separate stories, but she managed it by creating such unique characters. I was surprised to read in the Author’s Note at the end quite how much of the action is true, because she has shaped it into neat narrative arcs without compromising her sources.
At 564 pages, it’s a long book – basically you are getting three novels for the price of one, linked through this 14th-century chateau in the Auvergne, France. It’s a book to sink into, confident you are in the hands of a doyen of historical fiction and that you will get to the end much more knowledgeable than you were before.
As a reader, the story engaged me early on through the three tenacious characters that give their first-person accounts, chapter about. We meet Adrienne at the age of fourteen as she marries Lafayette, a man of strong moral principle, who fights in the American War of Independence and later tries to prevent bloodshed in the French Revolution. We meet Beatrice Chanler in her thirties, living separately from her adventurer husband, as she organises charitable relief during World War One and sets up a home for underprivileged children in Chateau Lafayette. And we meet Marthe, an orphan who has grown up in the Chateau and finds herself trying to protect its inmates during World War Two. Gradually you begin to spot the overlaps between their stories, and watch as each of the three protagonists grows stronger and more fearless in the face of challenges.
As an author, I spent much of the time mentally prostrating myself at Stephanie Dray’s feet. She is very much a writer’s writer. The research she has done for each of the three time periods is phenomenal. She wears it lightly, but the facts are there, setting a vivid backdrop for her plot and characters. Not a single note jars. It’s hard to keep readers equally interested in three separate stories, but she managed it by creating such unique characters. I was surprised to read in the Author’s Note at the end quite how much of the action is true, because she has shaped it into neat narrative arcs without compromising her sources.
At 564 pages, it’s a long book – basically you are getting three novels for the price of one, linked through this 14th-century chateau in the Auvergne, France. It’s a book to sink into, confident you are in the hands of a doyen of historical fiction and that you will get to the end much more knowledgeable than you were before.
July 7, 2021
This was an exhilarating and compelling piece of historical fiction by tremendously gifted writer, Stephanie Dray. She deftly weaves the narratives of three women, (of whom two are actual historical figures), through three world-changing time periods: the American/French Revolutions, World War I and World War II - all connected to the French mountain fortress of the Lafayettes while pursuing democratic ideals. The tremendous amount of research Dray invested in the project is herculean. Many of the astounding and oft humorous moments are drawn straight from the historic record. This work is historical fiction at its finest!
Among the women celebrated in this book is Marie Adrienne Françoise de Noailles, Marquise de La Fayette - wife of Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette - you know, the one who served alongside General George Washington during the American Revolution. She's knowledgeable of all courtly etiquette yet shares strong passion for democratic ideals with her husband. She is strong, resourceful, clever, devout and loyal. Juxtaposed against that narrative is the story of Beatrice Minerva Ashley Chanler, also known as Minnie Ashley - a former stage actress, writer and sculptress married to William Astor Chanler which brought her fortune and fortuitous connections. Like Adrienne, she too is passionate to serve and rescue unfortunate ones. In her case, those in World War I France, placing herself in considerable danger - much to her husband's chagrin. The third narrative is that of Marthe, serving as a teacher at Chateau Lafayette - a school/orphanage for unfortunate children of World War II. She herself had been rescued by Beatrice during World War I and placed in the school's care.
Ms. Dray does a spectacular job of weaving the historic record through the lives and loves of these women. One learns so much more about the historic periods through their eyes and hearts. They are passionate, fierce, clever and brave. I am grateful to have been introduced to them and eager to learn more about Adrienne and Beatrice. Well done, Ms. Dray!
Among the women celebrated in this book is Marie Adrienne Françoise de Noailles, Marquise de La Fayette - wife of Gilbert du Motier, Marquis de Lafayette - you know, the one who served alongside General George Washington during the American Revolution. She's knowledgeable of all courtly etiquette yet shares strong passion for democratic ideals with her husband. She is strong, resourceful, clever, devout and loyal. Juxtaposed against that narrative is the story of Beatrice Minerva Ashley Chanler, also known as Minnie Ashley - a former stage actress, writer and sculptress married to William Astor Chanler which brought her fortune and fortuitous connections. Like Adrienne, she too is passionate to serve and rescue unfortunate ones. In her case, those in World War I France, placing herself in considerable danger - much to her husband's chagrin. The third narrative is that of Marthe, serving as a teacher at Chateau Lafayette - a school/orphanage for unfortunate children of World War II. She herself had been rescued by Beatrice during World War I and placed in the school's care.
Ms. Dray does a spectacular job of weaving the historic record through the lives and loves of these women. One learns so much more about the historic periods through their eyes and hearts. They are passionate, fierce, clever and brave. I am grateful to have been introduced to them and eager to learn more about Adrienne and Beatrice. Well done, Ms. Dray!
December 21, 2023
В последните години заглавията, категоризирани като “историческа фикция”, почти гарантирано са всъщност понапудрена “дамска проза.” “Жените от шато Лафайет” е един от съвсем приличните и приятни примери.
Трите героини са порядъчно интересни:
🇫🇷 Адриен дьо Лафайет е съпругата на онзи френски генерал дьо Лафайет, който участва в американската битка за независимост от 18-ти век и е поддръжник на френската революция и идеята за конституционна монархия.
👒 Беатрис Чандлър е съп��уга на некоронован американски представител на старата синя кръв. Той е авантюрист с проблеми, тя - с неясно минало. Но избухването на първата световна война променя това.
🏰 Марта Симон е един от сираците на първата световна война, която ще бъде принудена да заеме активна позиция и да поеме рискове през втората световна война.
Пресечната точка на тези три съдби е именно семейният замък на генерал Лафайет.
Ако се върна отново на дегизираната като историческа проза дамска такава, в книгата са видими няколко от най-големите и недостатъци:
✔️ Задушаващ обем страници, който третира мозъка на читателя като несъществуващ, и натъртва до втръсване на правилната гледна точка и правилната интерпретация.
В интерес на истината, Дрей е достатъчно свежа, за да избягва често от клишето и да предизвика усмивка на симпатия.
✔️ Схематична, морализаторска, бедна откъм нюанси и откъм ерудиция “канонизация” на историческите образи и въздигането им в ранг на лесни за прехласване светци, удобно загърбвайки щекотливи противоречия и неясни нюанси, които могат да съсипят сладката картинка.
Дрей отново не е изцяло едностранчива и вмъква по някоя свежа нотка, малко хумор и прилично количество драма, така че прочитът е предимно приятен.
Все пак романът почти се срива под опита да се наблъскат три отделно сюжетни линии, и същевременно да се нахвърлят интересни исторически щрихи. С историческите щрихи за мен провалът е почти пълен. 18-ти век изведнъж тръгва в такъв галоп, че нищо не се разбира. Първата световна война е приспивна скука. Единствено втората световна война е удачно представена.
Откъм драма - сюжетната линия с Беатрис (1⭐️) е повече от излишна. Самата Беатрис е крайно антипатичен, себичен образ, който отказва да прояви и най-бегъл интерес към преживяванията на околните. Адриен (3⭐️) пък от един момент е представена като мъченица със склонност - без никой да е искал това и без реално да е необходимо - да обръща за шамар и другата буза. Явно това е новата “християнска” тенденция отвъд океана - глупостта краси човека… Втората половина от “нейния” сюжет е насилена и досадна. Само клетата, пълна с проблеми Марта (4⭐️) спасява положението! Това момиче ми беше симпатично отначало докрай, беше най-истинска и лесна за съпреживяване - вероятно защото е единственият измислен образ от трите.
Ако Дрей беше написала три романа, щеше да е много по-енергоспестяващо и щадящо към нервите на читателя. Но като за приятно убиване на времето и този леко досаден вариант става.
Трите героини са порядъчно интересни:
🇫🇷 Адриен дьо Лафайет е съпругата на онзи френски генерал дьо Лафайет, който участва в американската битка за независимост от 18-ти век и е поддръжник на френската революция и идеята за конституционна монархия.
👒 Беатрис Чандлър е съп��уга на некоронован американски представител на старата синя кръв. Той е авантюрист с проблеми, тя - с неясно минало. Но избухването на първата световна война променя това.
🏰 Марта Симон е един от сираците на първата световна война, която ще бъде принудена да заеме активна позиция и да поеме рискове през втората световна война.
Пресечната точка на тези три съдби е именно семейният замък на генерал Лафайет.
Ако се върна отново на дегизираната като историческа проза дамска такава, в книгата са видими няколко от най-големите и недостатъци:
✔️ Задушаващ обем страници, който третира мозъка на читателя като несъществуващ, и натъртва до втръсване на правилната гледна точка и правилната интерпретация.
В интерес на истината, Дрей е достатъчно свежа, за да избягва често от клишето и да предизвика усмивка на симпатия.
✔️ Схематична, морализаторска, бедна откъм нюанси и откъм ерудиция “канонизация” на историческите образи и въздигането им в ранг на лесни за прехласване светци, удобно загърбвайки щекотливи противоречия и неясни нюанси, които могат да съсипят сладката картинка.
Дрей отново не е изцяло едностранчива и вмъква по някоя свежа нотка, малко хумор и прилично количество драма, така че прочитът е предимно приятен.
Все пак романът почти се срива под опита да се наблъскат три отделно сюжетни линии, и същевременно да се нахвърлят интересни исторически щрихи. С историческите щрихи за мен провалът е почти пълен. 18-ти век изведнъж тръгва в такъв галоп, че нищо не се разбира. Първата световна война е приспивна скука. Единствено втората световна война е удачно представена.
Откъм драма - сюжетната линия с Беатрис (1⭐️) е повече от излишна. Самата Беатрис е крайно антипатичен, себичен образ, който отказва да прояви и най-бегъл интерес към преживяванията на околните. Адриен (3⭐️) пък от един момент е представена като мъченица със склонност - без никой да е искал това и без реално да е необходимо - да обръща за шамар и другата буза. Явно това е новата “християнска” тенденция отвъд океана - глупостта краси човека… Втората половина от “нейния” сюжет е насилена и досадна. Само клетата, пълна с проблеми Марта (4⭐️) спасява положението! Това момиче ми беше симпатично отначало докрай, беше най-истинска и лесна за съпреживяване - вероятно защото е единственият измислен образ от трите.
Ако Дрей беше написала три романа, щеше да е много по-енергоспестяващо и щадящо към нервите на читателя. Но като за приятно убиване на времето и този леко досаден вариант става.
March 29, 2021
If your knowledge of the Marquis de Lafayette starts and ends with the musical phenomenon Hamilton, you’re going to be thoroughly enlightened and engaged.
The Women of Chateau Lafayette spans three time periods and three wars. It focuses on three powerful women who demonstrated independence, bravery and love – Adrienne de Noailles, wife of the Marquis de Lafayette, Beatrice Astor Chanler and Marthe Simone. The main setting for this sweeping story is Chateau de Chavaniac, the ancestral home of Gilbert du Motier (the Marquis) – later called Chateau Lafayette.
While in their teens, Gilbert and Adrienne marry. Several years later, Gilbert travels to America, aids in the American Revolution, is befriended by George Washington and returns to France a hero. Adrienne’s strength is tested as the French Revolution progresses and their lives are threatened. She seeks refuge at the Chateau.
Beatrice Astor Chanler, a woman of mysterious beginnings, decides not to live the life of a pampered New York socialite as her wealthy husband lives a life of adventure. While visiting France at the start of WWI and being moved by the plight of the soldiers, she returns to America and starts preparing care packages and raising funds for the men at war. She eventually relocates to France to convert Chavaniac into a hospital (preventorium) for children and a home for war orphans.
Marthe Simone is one of the children raised at the castle. Now a grown woman and living at Chavaniac as a teacher, she uses her artist skills to falsify documents and hide Jewish children from the Nazis during WWII. As an orphan, she is searching for her true identity.
This is a long book (close to 600 pages) and with so many characters and time periods, a slower than normal read. But don’t let that keep you from this wonderful book. It is truly an epic saga. Adrienne and Beatrice are historical figures and Marthe is fictional, although the heroism that took place at the Chateau during WWII did occur. Lafayette would have been proud. Author Stephanie Dray weaves together a well-researched, exceptional story that historical fiction fans should love.
Many thanks to Berkley Publishing Group, the Berkley Buddy Reads program and NetGalley for the opportunity to read The Women of Chateau Lafayette in advance of its publication.
Rated 4.5 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
The Women of Chateau Lafayette spans three time periods and three wars. It focuses on three powerful women who demonstrated independence, bravery and love – Adrienne de Noailles, wife of the Marquis de Lafayette, Beatrice Astor Chanler and Marthe Simone. The main setting for this sweeping story is Chateau de Chavaniac, the ancestral home of Gilbert du Motier (the Marquis) – later called Chateau Lafayette.
While in their teens, Gilbert and Adrienne marry. Several years later, Gilbert travels to America, aids in the American Revolution, is befriended by George Washington and returns to France a hero. Adrienne’s strength is tested as the French Revolution progresses and their lives are threatened. She seeks refuge at the Chateau.
Beatrice Astor Chanler, a woman of mysterious beginnings, decides not to live the life of a pampered New York socialite as her wealthy husband lives a life of adventure. While visiting France at the start of WWI and being moved by the plight of the soldiers, she returns to America and starts preparing care packages and raising funds for the men at war. She eventually relocates to France to convert Chavaniac into a hospital (preventorium) for children and a home for war orphans.
Marthe Simone is one of the children raised at the castle. Now a grown woman and living at Chavaniac as a teacher, she uses her artist skills to falsify documents and hide Jewish children from the Nazis during WWII. As an orphan, she is searching for her true identity.
This is a long book (close to 600 pages) and with so many characters and time periods, a slower than normal read. But don’t let that keep you from this wonderful book. It is truly an epic saga. Adrienne and Beatrice are historical figures and Marthe is fictional, although the heroism that took place at the Chateau during WWII did occur. Lafayette would have been proud. Author Stephanie Dray weaves together a well-researched, exceptional story that historical fiction fans should love.
Many thanks to Berkley Publishing Group, the Berkley Buddy Reads program and NetGalley for the opportunity to read The Women of Chateau Lafayette in advance of its publication.
Rated 4.5 stars.
Review posted on MicheleReader.com.
Read
September 20, 2020Just dazzling! Three women, three wars, one French chateau and a whole lot of heroism: The Women of Chateau Lafayette is quite simply breathtaking in its scope and accomplishment. Prepare to be swept away to France and beyond by a master storyteller.
April 4, 2021
Thank you to Berkley Books, Stephanie Dray, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book!
Adrienne Lafayette: 1774
Beatrice Chanler: 1914
Marthe Simone: 1940
Extraordinary women in extraordinary times. The Women of Chateau Lafayette by Stephanie Dray intertwines the stories of Adrienne, Beatrice, and Marthe and their connection to one place. Everyone knows of the Marquis de Lafayette…dare I say it… “The Lancelot of the Revolutionary set!” I can’t promise that will be my only Hamilton reference, but I will try to control myself. Anyway. Everyone knows the man who helped America win the Revolutionary War and who was determined to bring the same freedom to his country. But what do you know about his wife? It turns out that there would be no Marquis de Lafayette without Adrienne. The name of Lafayette has a legacy, even in the year 1914 after the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and the beginning of The Great War. America isn’t in the war yet, but that doesn’t stop Beatrice from doing her part. War then comes again to France in 1940 when a young artist watches as Nazi Germany takes over France. These women are all connected by the great fortress of Lafayette. A fortress that stands for freedom.
History comes alive in this multi-layered epic. I love that we get to see women and their impacts on history. Adrienne and Beatrice did exist in history. But unfortunately, Marthe was not real, but she is inspiring and a representative of the woman who did all they could to stand up to humanity. Adrienne often gets lost in history with her husband’s reputation. When Lafayette is fighting for America, Adrienne is working hard for his dream at home. Their work will trigger The French Revolution. I love reading about The French Revolution. Stephanie Dray really focuses her history on the utter chaos during The Reign of Terror. But I can’t help but see all the parallels that we can see to present-day issues. Now, can I get a novel about her children??? Anastasie was MAGNIFICENT and we only get a glimpse of her. This book was originally supposed to focus on just Adrienne but the author’s research led her to expand the book. While I LOVED Beatrice and Marthe, I kind of wish this was a series. This way we could have the full focus on Adrienne. There were moments where I felt her get lost, just like in history.
BUT goodness. Beatrice dazzles. I could have done without all the back and forth with her husband and her captain. But I could see myself being her best friend! This book definitely inspired me to look more into her. Then Marthe. I love how her history is just as unknown as her future in a Nazi-occupied France. But sorry Marthe, you don’t deserve Travert. His development made me completely love him!—At first, I was not sure.
Anyway, this book is long and some moments may seem drawn out, but stay the course. This book is emotional and inspirational! I rate this book of 4 out of 5 stars!
Adrienne Lafayette: 1774
Beatrice Chanler: 1914
Marthe Simone: 1940
Extraordinary women in extraordinary times. The Women of Chateau Lafayette by Stephanie Dray intertwines the stories of Adrienne, Beatrice, and Marthe and their connection to one place. Everyone knows of the Marquis de Lafayette…dare I say it… “The Lancelot of the Revolutionary set!” I can’t promise that will be my only Hamilton reference, but I will try to control myself. Anyway. Everyone knows the man who helped America win the Revolutionary War and who was determined to bring the same freedom to his country. But what do you know about his wife? It turns out that there would be no Marquis de Lafayette without Adrienne. The name of Lafayette has a legacy, even in the year 1914 after the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand and the beginning of The Great War. America isn’t in the war yet, but that doesn’t stop Beatrice from doing her part. War then comes again to France in 1940 when a young artist watches as Nazi Germany takes over France. These women are all connected by the great fortress of Lafayette. A fortress that stands for freedom.
History comes alive in this multi-layered epic. I love that we get to see women and their impacts on history. Adrienne and Beatrice did exist in history. But unfortunately, Marthe was not real, but she is inspiring and a representative of the woman who did all they could to stand up to humanity. Adrienne often gets lost in history with her husband’s reputation. When Lafayette is fighting for America, Adrienne is working hard for his dream at home. Their work will trigger The French Revolution. I love reading about The French Revolution. Stephanie Dray really focuses her history on the utter chaos during The Reign of Terror. But I can’t help but see all the parallels that we can see to present-day issues. Now, can I get a novel about her children??? Anastasie was MAGNIFICENT and we only get a glimpse of her. This book was originally supposed to focus on just Adrienne but the author’s research led her to expand the book. While I LOVED Beatrice and Marthe, I kind of wish this was a series. This way we could have the full focus on Adrienne. There were moments where I felt her get lost, just like in history.
BUT goodness. Beatrice dazzles. I could have done without all the back and forth with her husband and her captain. But I could see myself being her best friend! This book definitely inspired me to look more into her. Then Marthe. I love how her history is just as unknown as her future in a Nazi-occupied France. But sorry Marthe, you don’t deserve Travert. His development made me completely love him!—At first, I was not sure.
Anyway, this book is long and some moments may seem drawn out, but stay the course. This book is emotional and inspirational! I rate this book of 4 out of 5 stars!
November 10, 2020
In the author's note she stated that she wanted to tell the story of Adrienne Lafayette. In her research she learned interesting information about Lafayette's house and how it was later used as a children's hospital / orphanage, so the author added two more storylines to this novel. In my opinion, she should have focused only on Lafayette. I enjoyed Adrienne's story which unfortunately became muddled by the other extraneous plots.
I did not like either of the other two storylines, one of which took place during World War I and the other during World War II. The author tried to pack too much into one novel and it became ponderous.
I read this book on my phone and it amounted to a whopping 1500 + pages. I am not opposed to long reads if they are good. However this set of three stories was not good enough to fill that many pages. The level of detail was excruciating, at least in the WWI and WWII plots, as they were not intriguing enough to support it. I could not help but skim what seemed like filler. Some people may enjoy this level of detail, but I did not find any of it compelling. I honestly did not care about the other two characters. Had the author stuck to her original plan and written a historical fiction novel about Adrienne Lafayette, she probably would have had a winner. I could have happily skipped the chapters about the other characters and just read about Adrienne.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for an advance reading copy in exchange for my honest review.
I did not like either of the other two storylines, one of which took place during World War I and the other during World War II. The author tried to pack too much into one novel and it became ponderous.
I read this book on my phone and it amounted to a whopping 1500 + pages. I am not opposed to long reads if they are good. However this set of three stories was not good enough to fill that many pages. The level of detail was excruciating, at least in the WWI and WWII plots, as they were not intriguing enough to support it. I could not help but skim what seemed like filler. Some people may enjoy this level of detail, but I did not find any of it compelling. I honestly did not care about the other two characters. Had the author stuck to her original plan and written a historical fiction novel about Adrienne Lafayette, she probably would have had a winner. I could have happily skipped the chapters about the other characters and just read about Adrienne.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for an advance reading copy in exchange for my honest review.
July 26, 2021
This historical novel set in three different timelines French Revolution, world war one & world war 2 introduced me to many fascinating historical and fictional characters and held me in its grip for the last three days. Coming in at nearly 600 pages, I was hooked from the very first page until the end of the acknowledgments.
Goodreads review published 26/07/21
Goodreads review published 26/07/21
January 22, 2021
I was thrilled to get to read this early and to provide this quote for my friend and co-author's wonderful solo novel:
Stephanie Dray sparkles and astounds with this compelling and seamlessly woven multigenerational epic about the women who resisted, fought, and sacrificed to protect Lafayette's legacy and our most cherished ideals and institutions. A monumental achievement and truly historical fiction at its finest!
Stephanie Dray sparkles and astounds with this compelling and seamlessly woven multigenerational epic about the women who resisted, fought, and sacrificed to protect Lafayette's legacy and our most cherished ideals and institutions. A monumental achievement and truly historical fiction at its finest!
August 8, 2022
*Soft spoilers*
A fascinating novel.
I love how it threads together the Lafayettes of the 18th Century with ladies of World Wars I and II. Historically based, as well, around Lafayette's historical home, Chavaniac. Lafayette snd his wife lived in the family home, Beatrice Astor Chanler lead philanthropy at the castle during WWI, and Americans bought it for a refuge for Jewish children in WWII.
Beatrice was my favorite and I adored her timeline! I learned a lot that I had forgotten about Lafayette as well.
Almost 5 stars. Taking points off for the WWII character, Marthe, being fictional (although I believe the author honestly tried to find a historical heroine to use) and for giving Marthe serious romantic and sexual feelings for her friend Anna (this seemed inauthentic and forced-in).
Overall, an enjoyable, and enlightening, read!
A fascinating novel.
I love how it threads together the Lafayettes of the 18th Century with ladies of World Wars I and II. Historically based, as well, around Lafayette's historical home, Chavaniac. Lafayette snd his wife lived in the family home, Beatrice Astor Chanler lead philanthropy at the castle during WWI, and Americans bought it for a refuge for Jewish children in WWII.
Beatrice was my favorite and I adored her timeline! I learned a lot that I had forgotten about Lafayette as well.
Almost 5 stars. Taking points off for the WWII character, Marthe, being fictional (although I believe the author honestly tried to find a historical heroine to use) and for giving Marthe serious romantic and sexual feelings for her friend Anna (this seemed inauthentic and forced-in).
Overall, an enjoyable, and enlightening, read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 16, 2022
Expect to see this on my best of 2022.
March 18, 2021
The Women of Château Lafayette is a sweeping saga that showcases the strength and tenacity of three women who each have a connection to the Château de Chavaniac, an imposing castle in France with a compelling history of its own.
The story spans three different eras -- the French Revolution, WWI and WWII and is told by three women. The first is Adrienne, the wife of the Marquis de Lafayette (you may remember Gilbert Lafayette from the Broadway hit Hamilton) whose story line takes place in the 1770's leading up to the French Revolution. The second is Beatrice Chanler, a chorus girl turned socialite turned social activist in WWI, and the third is Marthe, a fictional character in the 1940's who grew up at the Château de Chavaniac as an orphan and later became a teacher at a preventorium housed at the Château. Each of these women captured my attention in different ways - from Beatrice’s humour and strength to Adrienne's devotion and fight for American and French independence, to Marthe's experiences living under Nazi control and the mystery of her parentage. This is an impressive trio.
This is a big book (I'm not gonna lie) and there's a lot going on. The story spans 200 years, two world wars and one revolution and, at times, following three POVs in three eras was a bit confusing. The story had its ups and downs and even though I'm a fast reader, I found this was a deceptively long read with the story occasionally dragging due to excessive details and dialogue, particularly in the middle of the book.
But I loved that I learned a lot from this book, namely the characters of Adrienne and Beatrice and I particularly liked how Dray addresses why the US delayed their entry into both world wars. As a granddaughter of a Canadian veteran of WWII, I appreciated getting a better understanding of why the US waited so long to join the Allied forces in the wars.
Overall, this is an impressive story that showcases the varied and important roles women played in the fight for freedom that are not often detailed in historical texts. This is a compelling story filled with intrigue, danger and history told by a tenacious trio of women who showed bravery and perseverance despite the adversity and danger they faced.
Disclaimer: My sincere thanks to Berkley Publishing Group for my complimentary advanced copy via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
June 27, 2023
Fantastic book, as always, but the great Stephanie Dray! Though this is my first book that's 4/5 stars instead of 5 stars. And why is that? I dive into that topic in my BookTube book review on my channel.
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yriaJ...
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yriaJ...
November 2, 2023
My curiosity often propels me to dive into every book that crosses my path, resulting in an ever-expanding list of unread titles. To tackle this more efficiently, I am quickly sifting out those books that don't grip my attention and set them aside. I am now deciding if I will give them another try. The Women of Chateau Lafayette was one I set aside a while back and have decided not to finish it.
While the story does present an intriguing plot with historical history and an array of interesting characters, it's the length of the book that was my stumbling block, causing me to lose interest before reaching the halfway point. I believe an author can effectively convey their narrative within, typically under 350 pages. Anything beyond that, I find myself struggling, and the story often feels drawn out, making it challenging for me to persist. Regrettably, The Women of Chateau Lafayette fell into that category.
Despite my inability to keep turning the pages, I recognize the value of exploring new stories, even when they don't meet my preferences. Stephanie Dray didn’t hold my attention throughout this story, but pursuing that curiosity is rewarding.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
While the story does present an intriguing plot with historical history and an array of interesting characters, it's the length of the book that was my stumbling block, causing me to lose interest before reaching the halfway point. I believe an author can effectively convey their narrative within, typically under 350 pages. Anything beyond that, I find myself struggling, and the story often feels drawn out, making it challenging for me to persist. Regrettably, The Women of Chateau Lafayette fell into that category.
Despite my inability to keep turning the pages, I recognize the value of exploring new stories, even when they don't meet my preferences. Stephanie Dray didn’t hold my attention throughout this story, but pursuing that curiosity is rewarding.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley.
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