The Paris Wife by Paula Mclain: A Quick Review

So, it’s a new year and I’ve joined a book club.  I’m excited, but also a little nervous because I’m finally reading “adult” stuff.  It’s my goal to share with you what I’m reading each month, and maybe you’ll want to give it a shot, too.  So with that being said…  My first book of 2014 is The Paris Wife, a novel by Paula Mclain.  It’s the story of Hadley Richardson, the first wife of Ernest Hemingway.  The story takes place during the early 20’s, mainly in Paris,  and closely follows the couple’s short marriage.

Richardson and Hemingway.

I thought Mclain’s voice was dead on, and for me it really made the story intriguing.  In truth, and as you can imagine, the story is quite depressing, but McLain really pulls readers in with her strong voice and sense of character.  The details are rich and the emotion is heartbreaking.  It was very interesting to see what it was like to be in love someone who was just so “big.”  And to love someone more than they loved you, which I’m sure we’ve all experienced at some point in our lives — whether in kindergarten or college.

I wouldn’t recommend reading this book if you’re already suffering from seasonal depression this winter, but if you’re in good spirits, check it out.  It’s a book that will help you grow.  Or, at least teach you a thing or two about who not to marry.