Fogle (author of City of Liars) spins a mesmerizing tale brimming with giants of musical and artistic history during Belle Époque Paris, including composers Claude Debussy and Maurice Ravel alongside artists Pablo Picasso and Henri Toulouse-Lautrec. After washing out of the prestigious Paris Conservatoire, composer Erik Satie redoubles his efforts to break new ground in music, often struggling for money as he attempts to find his place in late 19th-century Paris. When he meets Claude Debussy in an arts-related bookstore, while both are in their 20s and dreaming of success, the two hit it off splendidly. For a while.
The relationship that Fogle draws between Satie and Debussy is tumultuous; Debussy achieves wealth and stature first, and Satie believes theirs to be a close, mutual friendship—until he uncovers what he perceives as Debussy’s theft of his talent, which he sees as the ultimate betrayal. From there, the connection frays, as Satie endeavors to prove that he has a unique point of view and Debussy seeks to massage his own ego, leading to a rivalry for the ages. Satie’s dependence on alcohol slows his trajectory somewhat, but his unmistakable and unwavering talent propels him forward in a way that will leave readers rooting for his success. Expertly drawn supporting characters, especially the mysterious and heartbreaking Suzanne, provide ample support for Fogle’s taut plot.
Fogle’s impeccable research shines through nearly every scene, transporting readers to a Paris illuminated by the gossamer ambition of musical geniuses vying for a chance at the spotlight, and her rich, descriptive prose expertly dissects the Belle Époque era, where the struggles of artists not yet known make them inclined to do anything (within reason) for money. Despite a word misstep here and there, Fogle’s writing will beguile readers who enjoy their historical tales cloaked in the messy dealings of reality.
Takeaway: Glittering novel of musical genius in Paris’s Belle Époque.
Comparable Titles: Cathy Marie Buchanan’s The Painted Girls, Jude Morgan’s Symphony.
Production grades
Cover: A-
Design and typography: A
Illustrations: N/A
Editing: A
Marketing copy: A