MIssion to Paris by Alan Furst ****

Paris 1938. Against the backdrop of the Munich Agreement and Kristallnacht, Mission to Paris by Alan Furst spins a tale of innocence, courage, and love about a movie star (Fredric Stahl) and a costume designer (Renate Steiner) caught up Nazi terror.

Even if you do not have familiarity with the history of this period, Furst provides enough context to appreciate the story and the history.

This story reminds us all that much is accomplished by individuals doing their best with their limited resources and understanding. Even as these people risk their lives, the author avoids any attempt to overplay their roles or preach about their impact. This is history as seen by minor actors as they pass their quotidian  lives just looking for a little happiness and a little safety.

As might be expected from bit players on the world stage, their contributions are minor, but the story is a happy one. I enjoyed the horrific history lesson in such a pleasant package.

 I received a free copy of this book from the Goodreads First Reads program.