SARAH & GERALD A Novel of Paris in the 1920s

Julie S. Halpern's cultured voice is perfect for this elegant historical novel about wealthy American expatriates living in France between the Wars. Many characters, including Gerald and Sarah, are based on real people such as Gerald and Sara Murphy, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, Cole Porter, and Dorothy Parker. In addition to an authentic French accent, well-rendered dialogue, and vivid description, Halpern also presents a most convincing drunk. Occasional interspersed sections that are specifically from Sarah's viewpoint promote a sense of intimacy. Snippets about history, art, literature, and film add interest, but the warmly told love story of Sarah and Gerald and their charming family life is the most satisfying part of the book. However, a mysterious scream at the beginning will give listeners as sense of foreboding until the end of this fascinating audiobook. S.G.B. © AudioFile 2015, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2015]