Emma Donoghue’s historical thriller explores a French train wreck & the lives within it — read an excerpt now
Emma Donoghue’s latest novel, The Paris Express, transports readers back to late 19th-century France, immersing them in the fears and desires of the time through a diverse group of passengers on the Granville-Paris express. The novel delves into the Belle Époque era, capturing its speedy, multicultural, and complex essence, drawing parallels to our modern world.
The story follows a range of characters, including a young boy traveling alone, a pregnant woman fleeing from her past, a medical student, and dedicated railway workers. At the heart of the narrative is a young anarchist on a mission, adding an element of suspense and intrigue to the plot. Set against the backdrop of the 1895 French railway disaster, Donoghue’s reimagination of the event sheds light on the lives of those aboard the ill-fated train.
Donoghue, an Irish Canadian writer known for her bestselling novel Room, brings her signature storytelling prowess to The Paris Express. With a keen eye for detail and a knack for creating compelling characters, Donoghue weaves a tale that captures the essence of the time period while exploring timeless themes of love, loss, and resilience.
The protagonist, Mado Pelletier, a twenty-one-year-old woman with a rebellious spirit and a penchant for defying societal norms, finds herself at a crossroads in Granville, contemplating her next move. As she stands outside the train station, grappling with her inner turmoil and the expectations placed upon her, Mado embarks on a journey of self-discovery and liberation.
Through Donoghue’s vivid descriptions and evocative prose, readers are transported to a bygone era, where the clatter of train tracks and the hustle and bustle of railway stations come to life. The Paris Express is a masterful blend of historical fiction and gripping storytelling, offering a glimpse into a world on the cusp of change.
As The Paris Express hits shelves on March 18, 2025, readers can look forward to a captivating tale that will linger in their minds long after the final page is turned. Donoghue’s North American book tour promises to further immerse readers in the world of her novel, offering insights into her creative process and the inspiration behind her work.
Intriguing, poignant, and richly textured, The Paris Express is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and literary fiction alike. Donoghue’s latest novel promises to be a compelling addition to her impressive body of work, solidifying her reputation as a master storyteller with a unique ability to transport readers to different time periods and worlds.
