My book review of 'French Windows' by Antoine Laurain and translated by Louise Rogers Lalaurie

by Antoine Laurain and translated by Louise Rogers Lalaurie
French Windows
by Antoine Laurain and translated by Louise Rogers Lalaurie

This is a slim book which is an easy read combining humour with a mystery, and some comments on the meaning of life and the pleasures and challenges of living alongside each other. 

Dr Faber is a therapist and one day is confronted by Nathalia Guitry, a successful photographer who needs his help. She has caught a murder on camera and she needs a way of countering this shocking event. 

He suggests that to overcome her creative block, she should write stories about the people she sees in the building opposite, floor by floor.  

She does so and we and Dr Faber are given an intriguing glimpse into the lives of these neighbours. As they continue, though, Dr Faber questions whether her stories are real or imagined. And when she reaches the final floor, there is a shocking revelation. 

This is a delightful, whimsical tale which has left me wanting to explore other novels by this author.

Date of this review: November 2024
Book publication date: 9th July 2024