Coco, the Novel

by Patricia B. Soliman

A vivid evocation of the life and loves of fashion designer Coco Chanel ranges from her poverty-stricken, illegitimate childhood to her rise to the heights of the fashion world, capturing her relationships with the likes of Picasso, Cocteau, and Stravinsky

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction

576 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 1991

Reviews

[Tanya Warfield]

This was actually a book I picked up just to have something to read, but it turned out to be much more fascinating than I ever anticipated. As the title suggests, it follows the life of infamous couture designer Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel from modest beginning to the time of her death. Written from several perspectives, including those of her lovers and dearest friends, it's an enjoyable look inside the intimate aspects of her life. While the main character's life is fashion, the book focuses much more on the drama surrounding Chanel's life, making it palatable to a much wider audience. Read it, you'll like it.

[Karyl]

Eh. It was okay. I wasn't too fond of the way the author would switch perspectives, especially when I wasn't always sure how that person related to Coco Chanel. Also I found the writing to be quite elementary in tone. The story itself was interesting, but I think I would probably be better off reading a biography of Ms Chanel.

[Amanda]

I thought this was an interesting book, but I look forward to reading the actual biographies I have about her to see the differences.

[Gigi]

You could really tell that this novelization of Coco Chanel's life was written in the 80s due to the sex scene language. This book seemed so dated, I couldn't finish it. It had such dense language, so over-the-top, soooooo introspective, just hitting you over the head with Freedom, No Man Shall Own Me!! yet...they do...............

[Shirley]

Interesting read on her life story but couldn't help but wonder how much was true. I look forward to read her real biography.

[Karen Helvey-Whitt]

I liked and admired Coco before, I love her now! Long book, I had to take breaks, but I always came back more enthused than before. Well worth the time.

[Roselani]

As a novel this is great! Never read it as a bio. Loved the way each chapter was a different character's perspective. Brought me into the life and TIMES of Coco's life. The vibrant beginnings of the last century. What a tour.

[Snail in Danger (Sid) Nicolaides]

I read this when I was a kid - around the time that it was published. My mom had a copy and I was all "Hey! Book!" I was not terribly picky at that point. Probably not the best thing for a kid. I also remember there being a fair amount of drama that would probably put me off these days.

[Reb]

It was an entertaining read, but I couldn't help but wonder how much was actually true and what was added for entertainment. I wanted to know more about where Coco's inspiration came from. This book focused more on her personal relationships then her brand creation.

[Caryn]

Extremely well-crafted, wholly engaging book. Loved it! Wish I could find more she has written.

[Carrie]

It was an interesting read, but long. Very French.

[Sandy Antle]

Good read

[Cathy Torrey]

To live during the era of Coco Channel. What a very charming insightful, strong women she was.