Love, Friendship & Legacy

The Paris Affair by Muna Shehadi is a compelling and enthralling dual timeline novel that I adored.

The novel is set in 1975 and in present day, in both Paris and midwestern America. The two time periods are linked by one family – a grandmother and her granddaughter.

We see the power of choices, and how we, and others, respond to the choices made. “Life is a series of choices… You can live with regret for the road not taken, or you can kick that devil out and find ways to be content.” Our lives are what we make of them. We can live in disappointment or look for rainbows in the rain.

A life has been squashed – first by expectations placed on her by her family; and then by a very spoilt and opinionated daughter. The character has missed out on seeing her three grandchildren as lies have been told. One day the truth will come out.

There is the importance of having the correct priorities. “What do I need sable and diamonds for?… I have weeds, goats and chicken poo.” When life is ruled by dollar signs, no good will come of it. Find contentment in the simple things in life.

At the heart of the novel is a small farm and its’ animals. At first, a character is fearful of the animals. As she faces her fears, she finds the joy within. Life is made richer by the bond with animals.