Review: Face in the Mirror?
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 03 13, 2014
Moonlighting in Paris by Elle Klass is a romantic novel with psychological themes focusing on Justine Holmes, the alter ego of the self-described ‘homely, distraught and self-centered’ Cleo. Having read Baby Girl 1, my best suggestion would be for you to pick up the first installment for some Cleo background. However, it won’t keep you from thoroughly enjoying this one as Klass hits the ground running in this rousing sequel.The author proves most crafty in leading us to sympathize and even identify with Justine. Despite the fact she is lying and deceptive in her dealings with the wealthy Didier and his colleague Sam, Klass’ refined first-person narrative technique makes us want to see her succeed. The enigmatic Einstein makes a spiritual encore here as Justine seeks closure with memories of her past life, only the introduction of Detective John Young comes close to compromising her faade. Justine is able to make her way into the fabric of Parisian society with the aid of Didier, and she basks in his radiance though continually distracted by her own shadowy past. The climactic confrontation comes as Justine is faced with the choice of living her life in married bliss under a bogus identity, or leaving a life of privilege at the cost of a clear conscience.Elle Klass’ novel is worth reading as much for its delightfully extravagant journey as Justine’s final decision. The anti-heroine reaffirms the notion that charming people have something to hide, namely their chronic reliance on others to define themselves. Moonlighting in Paris by Elle Klass stands alone as a memorable drama, but as the second part of the series it shows us just how far both protagonist and author have progressed along this winding road.