Reviews

“In two timelines set in Paris nearly 300 years apart, Paula McLain tells the story of Alouette, a gifted and defiant young woman, who, in 1664, is wrongly imprisoned in the infamous Salpêtrière asylum, and Kristof, a doctor who, in 1942, makes a life-changing choice. Riveting, heart-breaking, yet full of hope and courage — I could not put it down!” – Marilyn Negip, RJ Julia Booksellers

“Skylark presents Paris in two timelines and from two vantage points – one above, one below. A woman in 1664 is institutionalized in her quest for artistic freedom. A doctor in the 1940s must take to the tunnels to save a group of Jews fleeing the Nazis. These stories are woven together with infinite care as only Paula can do. No one writes historical fiction like Paula McLain!” – Mary Webber O’Malley, Skylark Bookshop

“I will read anything Paula Mclain writes and her new historical novel hit every mark! In Skylark, McLain masterfully weaves together two compelling storylines, immersing readers in a fight for artistic freedom in 17th century Paris, and refuge from religious persecution during the Nazi occupation. Both heartbreaking and hopeful, Skylark is a captivating tale of courage, resilience, and the sheer will needed to stare down injustice. Bravo!” – Anderson McKean, Page & Palette

“In her new novel, Paula McLain returns to Paris in an unforgettable story of courage and resistance as she interlaces two eras of turmoil, and two heroic and richly-drawn characters, with prose that is elegant, immersive, illuminating, and haunting. Skylark is triumph!” – Linda Kass, Gramercy Booksnderson McKean, Page & Palette

“Masterfully interweaving dual timelines from the past, McLain explores issues of injustice, freedom, and resistance that resonate strongly today. A lyrical, atmospheric, and haunting novel about the power of bravery and resilience across time.”  – Alyssa Raymond, Copper Dog Books

“There is a reason we get excited when we hear a new book is on the way from Paula McLain- we know we’re in for a treat! With her return to Paris, Paula paints the picture of two characters, Alouette in 1664, the daughter of a master dyer, and Kristoff in 1939, a medical student in the midst of Nazi forces taking over the city. I love many aspects of Paula’s novels, but what I love most is that you’re going to immerse yourself in the lives of these characters, learn something you may not have known before and have a story that stays with you long after you finish reading.”  – Katherine Czyzewski, Thunder Road Books

“A heart wrenching and unforgettable story of two young women at different periods of time who find the strength to survive in their quest for freedom. With her beautiful prose, McLain opens our eyes to the struggle and symbol of hope that encourages these women to break barriers. This book left me breathless!”  – Maxwell Gregory, A Mighty Blaze

“In exquisite, unflinching prose, Paula McLain parallels 17th and 20th century Paris — eras of injustice and persecution, yes, but also intermittent beauty. Alouette and Kristof, the heroine and hero of Skylark, will have you rooting fiercely for their liberation as they find deep reservoirs of strength within themselves, to survive the unthinkable and fly free.”  – Kelly Massry, Kelly’s Collections

“Artfully blending two narratives separated by almost 300 years, Paula McLain powerfully portrays societies that willfully oppress weaker members but also conveys the resilience of people with an indomitable will to achieve freedom.  The final result verifies her status as a highly informed, keenly observant, insightful, enthralling and superb storyteller who carries on a tradition of glorifying the saga of human hope and striving for a better world.”  – Bill Cusumano, Square Bookselly Massry, Kelly’s Collections