For readers of The Paris Wife and Z comes this vivid novel full of
drama, passion, tragedy, and beauty that stunningly imagines the life of
iconic fashion designer Coco Chanel--the ambitious, gifted
laundrywoman's daughter who revolutionized fashion, built an
international empire, and become one of the most influential and
controversial figures of the twentieth century.
Born into rural poverty, Gabrielle Chanel and her siblings are sent to
orphanage after their mother's death. The sisters nurture Gabrielle's
exceptional sewing skills, a talent that will propel the willful young
woman into a life far removed from the drudgery of her childhood.
Transforming herself into Coco--a seamstress and sometime torch
singer--the petite brunette burns with ambition, an incandescence that
draws a wealthy gentleman who will become the love of her life. She
immerses herself in his world of money and luxury, discovering a freedom
that sparks her creativity. But it is only when her lover takes her to
Paris that Coco discovers her destiny.
Rejecting the frilly, corseted silhouette of the past, her sleek,
minimalist styles reflect the youthful ease and confidence of the 1920s
modern woman. As Coco's reputation spreads, her couturier business
explodes, taking her into rarefied society circles and bohemian salons.
But her fame and fortune cannot save her from heartbreak as the years
pass. And when Paris falls to the Nazis, Coco is forced to make choices
that will haunt her.
An enthralling novel of an extraordinary woman who created the life she
desired, Mademoiselle Chanel explores the inner world of a woman of
staggering ambition whose strength, passion and artistic vision would
become her trademark.
