THE RIVIERA HOUSE

Inspired by the true story of Parisian art curator Rose Valland and her heroic actions to document every French artwork in The

Louvre as the Nazis moved in to seize the valuable works. Due to Rose’s meticulous works alongside Jacques Jaujard and his wife, Jeanne Boitel, the artworks were easily traced and recovered after World War Two. It is this inspiration that adds to Natasha’s impressive historical ction series.

Poignant with depth, raw in reality and courageous characters that stir your imagination – these are the ingredients that Natasha Lester delivers in Riviera House. Set in Paris, from 1939, Eliane Dufort along with her circle of Resistance friends document and move the priceless masterpieces of the Louvre before the surrender of France to the Nazi forces. Their daring work continues as senior Nazi of cials plunder the artworks and the ‘soul of Occupied France’. Eliane Dufort has serious responsibilities, having to work and support her siblings along with her dysfunctional parents, made all the harder as Occupation in Paris takes hold. She faces many heart-breaking decisions and choices to ensure survival but also heed the heroic call of freedom.

Meticulous research gives this read a sincere depth and the suspense held my attention.