Mistress of the Ritz
Mistress of the Ritz
Book Brief
Beta372
Novel • Fiction
Paris, France • 1940s
2019
Adult
18+ years
Super Short Summary
Mistress of the Ritz by Melanie Benjamin intertwines historical fiction with the lives of a couple managing the luxurious Ritz Hotel in Nazi-occupied Paris. The story reveals their challenging roles amidst war, espionage, and resilience, highlighting the balance between survival and resistance under the shadow of occupation.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Romantic
Emotional
Reviews & Readership
16,639 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Mistress of the Ritz by Melanie Benjamin offers a compelling historical narrative set in Nazi-occupied Paris, praised for vivid atmospheric details and a strong female protagonist. Critics appreciate the emotional depth but note some pacing issues and predictability in plot twists. Ultimately, it balances intrigue with a poignant exploration of resistance and survival.
Who Should Read Mistress of the Ritz?
A reader who enjoys The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah or All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr would appreciate Mistress of the Ritz by Melanie Benjamin. This book appeals to those interested in historical fiction, World War II narratives, and stories of resilience and romance under adversity.
16,639 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mistress of the Ritz is inspired by the real-life couple Claude and Blanche Auzello, who managed the Hôtel Ritz Paris during the tumultuous years of World War II.
Author Melanie Benjamin is known for her historical fiction novels, and Mistress of the Ritz continues her tradition of bringing to life strong, complex women from history.
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The hotel, Hôtel Ritz Paris, plays a significant role in the book, reflecting its real-life reputation as a luxurious icon where historical figures and celebrities have stayed, including Ernest Hemingway and Coco Chanel.
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372
Novel • Fiction
Paris, France • 1940s
2019
Adult
18+ years
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