I really enjoyed the book and it kept me engaged. However, I felt it worked much better as a sequel than it did as a stand-alone. The previous book, written quite some time ago, the Expats, introduces us to the main characters. We learn so much about them individually and as a couple. That is lacking in this book. They have an intense and vivid history and read in that context, Paris Diversion becomes much more interesting. That being said, my husband really enjoyed it and he did not read the The Expats. All in all, I was involved and kept turning the pages...but I do recommend reading it second.

I found this book to be an enjoyable read. I love historical fiction but would describe Cartier's Hope as "Chick Lit" or perhaps a great beach read. I felt the writing style was quite simplistic and did not challenge me at all. This being said, I can see why many people gave it great reviews. The time period is fascinating and there were many interesting themes that are still relevant today. I would not recommend this as a book club read but perhaps as an interesting page turner.