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The Paris LibraryJanet Skeslien Charles

Historical fiction

The Paris Library

by Janet Skeslien Charles

In 1939, Odile Souchet secures her dream position at the American Library in Paris just before occupation threatens its staff, collection, and patrons. The librarians resist by keeping books circulating and secretly delivering them to Jewish subscribers barred by Nazi rules. Decades later in Montana, an older Odile befriends a lonely teenager whose curiosity gradually uncovers the wartime betrayal that shaped her retreat from France. Reflective and historically grounded, this dual-timeline novel suits readers who enjoy real library history, quiet resistance, intergenerational friendship, and stories about how loyalty can coexist with one devastating failure.

Paired for this story

Raspberry Spell Fizz + Lager

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At a glance

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Spice2 of 5
Suspense4 of 5
Creepy1 of 5
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No surprises at chapter twelve

Content notes

World War II occupation and Nazi persecution; antisemitism and genocide; violence and gun violence; death and grief; police brutality; deportation/confinement; physical abuse and torture; sexual assault references; suicidal thoughts.

Alcohol-Free Pour

Raspberry Spell Fizz

A spoonful of raspberry jam turns lemon and sparkling water into a whimsical fizz.

What you'll need

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How to mix it

  1. Shake jam and lemon juice with a small amount of ice until dissolved. Strain over fresh ice and top with sparkling water.
  2. Garnish: Raspberry and lemon wheel.
  3. Glassware: Highball glass.
21+

Cocktail Pour · 21+

Lager

For adults of legal drinking age. Please drink responsibly.

A mellow, malty pour suits an unhurried afternoon between the pages.

What you'll need

  • 12 oz Lager

How to mix it

  1. Pour into a clean pint glass and serve at the appropriate cool serving temperature.
  2. Garnish: None.
  3. Glassware: Pint glass.

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