In the nineteen-forties, fashion model Jessica May wants to become a war correspondent. But nothing can prepare her for the horrors of war, or the countless men who hate her presence in war-stricken Europe, simply for being a woman. Luckily, she befriends other female correspondents and the kind-hearted soldier Dan Hallworth, who is caring for an orphaned girl who will become very important to Jessica.
In the noughties, D'Arcy Hallworth visits a chateau in France to help pack a famous photographer's work. The plan is to exhibit the photographs at a gallery in D'Arcy's home country Australia, but while going through them, D'Arcy discovers a big family secret that pertains to her mother Victorine. How is she connected to the photographer and what other surprises are hidden in the old chateau?
I really enjoyed this novel. It has a perfect mix of romance and drama. Lester makes you feel invested in the characters and when I found out that the main character is a fictitious version of real life correspondent Lee Miller, I started reading up on her too.
At one point I got a bit confused by the many plot twists during the final chapters of the book. However, it's a small complaint because "The French Photographer" is a wonderful read, both heartwarming and tragic. I found myself crying at the many hardships of the main characters and the people they meet during the war.
This is the second novel by Natasha Lester that I've read, but it won't be the last. I really enjoy her historical romances and can't wait for the next one.
