Bronze Medal, Historical Literary Fiction, Book of the Year Award from The Coffee Pot Book Club

"In Harold’s tender, frothy, and witty novel, populated by an eclectic group of Bohemian artists, Paris itself occupies a prominent role...Through acerbic social commentary and biting dialogue, the author takes readers on entertaining tours of artists’ studios and one or two dens of inequity. Elaborate descriptions of the fashions, foods, and lifestyles that made Paris the center of the arts and social rebelliousness of the era are peppered throughout, along with thought-provoking pre– and post–Civil War historical tidbits. Intriguing and enjoyable, with an engaging female protagonist.”

—Kirkus Reviews

“An engaging, moving and witty novel, filled with fascinating characters and a vivid sense of the exuberant, risk-taking artistic world of late nineteenth century Paris. Annie Shaw is an appealing character, honestly and lovingly drawn, in her yearning for a freer and more creative life, beyond her role as faithful Civil War widow, sister, aunt and daughter-in-law. As Annie starts to discover her own path toward self-expression and love, she offers crucial support for those around her who break away from society’s restraints of race, gender, and sexuality.”

—Harriet S. Chessman, author of "Lydia Cassatt Reading the Morning Paper"