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Clara Vine #3
A War of Flowers
Please be aware, this is the UK title of the novel published in America and Canada as The Scent of Secrets.
August, 1938. Paris is a city living on its nerves and the threat of war hangs heavy as a distant thunderstorm on a summer's day.
British actress, Clara Vine, is in Paris to film her latest movie, having left Berlin under a cloud. Joseph Goebbels has become increasingly suspicious that Clara has been mingling in Berlin society and passing snippets of information to her contacts in the British Embassy. It would have been absurd, if it hadn't also been true…
With war becoming increasingly likely, Clara is approached by an undercover British operative, Guy Hamilton, who asks her to perform a task for her country: to befriend Eva Braun, Hitler's girlfriend, and to pass on any information she can gather.
Clara knows that to undertake this task is to put herself back in danger. But she also knows that soon she may have to do everything in her power to protect her country…
August, 1938. Paris is a city living on its nerves and the threat of war hangs heavy as a distant thunderstorm on a summer's day.
British actress, Clara Vine, is in Paris to film her latest movie, having left Berlin under a cloud. Joseph Goebbels has become increasingly suspicious that Clara has been mingling in Berlin society and passing snippets of information to her contacts in the British Embassy. It would have been absurd, if it hadn't also been true…
With war becoming increasingly likely, Clara is approached by an undercover British operative, Guy Hamilton, who asks her to perform a task for her country: to befriend Eva Braun, Hitler's girlfriend, and to pass on any information she can gather.
Clara knows that to undertake this task is to put herself back in danger. But she also knows that soon she may have to do everything in her power to protect her country…
416 pages, Paperback
First published September 15, 2015
81 people are currently reading
2679 people want to read
About the author
Jane Thynne
24 books490 followersJane Thynne was born in Venezuela and educated in London. She graduated from Oxford University with a degree in English and joined the BBC as a journalist. She has also worked at The Sunday Times, The Daily Telegraph and The Independent, as well as for numerous British magazines. She appears as a broadcaster on Radio 4 and Sky TV. She has also written WIDOWLAND under the pen name C.J. Carey.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 187 reviews
September 15, 2015
This book is several things wrapped into one - a murder mystery, a story of espionage, the gossipy "house wives of Berlin ", a love story - all set within the backdrop of Germany just before WWII and a plot to kill Hitler . It's well written and there is some wonderful descriptive writing from the beginning and it's intriguing .
Clara Vine , half British , part Jewish , although this part of her is hidden, is an actress and a British spy living in Germany. Her assignment is to get to know Eva Braun and get close enough to her to find Braun's diary in hopes that it will disclose Hitler's plans .
A unique book for me to read since I don't often read "crime" stories as this is described but the crime story is secondary in many ways to Clara 's story until they are linked in the end . Among the real people we meet here are Eva Braun , Heinrich Himmler, Joseph Goebbels and Coco Channel. A mix of fact and fiction, but I was always interested in what would happen to Clara Vine . I discovered that this is third book in a series , which wasn't made clear to me in the NetGalley description. I may not have requested it had I known that since I had not read the first two but I'm glad I did because I thoroughly enjoyed it ! I'll be looking for the other Clara Vine novels.
Thanks to Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine and NetGalley
December 16, 2015
3.5 stars
I thought the premise of this book was a very interesting one and it was entertaining. The reader gets a glimpse of Nazi Germany from the inside, a peek at the elite and famous and those in power. Clara Vine is a renowned actress living in Germany at the time just prior to the outbreak of WWII. But, Clara is more than an actress - she has some secrets that individually put her at risk but in combination are deadly! Half English and half German, Clara is also a British intelligence agent and the granddaughter of a Jewish woman. She also rubs elbows with the Nazi leaders and their wives - putting her in the perfect position of obtaining the information needed by Hitler's enemies. Clara's most recent assignment is the most dangerous one yet - she must befriend Eva Braun and pass on any clues as to Hitler's next move.
Perfume and parties, the intrigue of the Nazi wives and the affairs of their powerful and arrogant husbands, the mystery behind a dead woman thrown overboard on a cruise, a young German woman trying to save her young nephew from a terrible fate, a plot to overthrow Hitler, and the search for Eva Braun's secret diary all lend to a potentially exciting reading experience. But, while I was eager to continue in order to unravel the mystery and determine the outcome of Clara's cunning and espionage, I still found the book fell a bit short of being really exciting - as in gripping the edge of your seat exciting! I did not realize this was the third book in a series, although I think it was probably fine as a stand-alone. However, there may have been some background and character development I missed in the first two. The ending of this book was not at all neat and tidy - it actually ended very abruptly and many questions were left unanswered. Perhaps another book in the series will tie things up but this was not clear to me. Overall, I would say The Scent of Secrets was a good diversion. The series has some great potential, and I would like to learn more about what happens to Clara Vine next. It also peaked my curiosity in learning more about Eva Braun.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in a Goodreads FirstReads giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
I thought the premise of this book was a very interesting one and it was entertaining. The reader gets a glimpse of Nazi Germany from the inside, a peek at the elite and famous and those in power. Clara Vine is a renowned actress living in Germany at the time just prior to the outbreak of WWII. But, Clara is more than an actress - she has some secrets that individually put her at risk but in combination are deadly! Half English and half German, Clara is also a British intelligence agent and the granddaughter of a Jewish woman. She also rubs elbows with the Nazi leaders and their wives - putting her in the perfect position of obtaining the information needed by Hitler's enemies. Clara's most recent assignment is the most dangerous one yet - she must befriend Eva Braun and pass on any clues as to Hitler's next move.
Perfume and parties, the intrigue of the Nazi wives and the affairs of their powerful and arrogant husbands, the mystery behind a dead woman thrown overboard on a cruise, a young German woman trying to save her young nephew from a terrible fate, a plot to overthrow Hitler, and the search for Eva Braun's secret diary all lend to a potentially exciting reading experience. But, while I was eager to continue in order to unravel the mystery and determine the outcome of Clara's cunning and espionage, I still found the book fell a bit short of being really exciting - as in gripping the edge of your seat exciting! I did not realize this was the third book in a series, although I think it was probably fine as a stand-alone. However, there may have been some background and character development I missed in the first two. The ending of this book was not at all neat and tidy - it actually ended very abruptly and many questions were left unanswered. Perhaps another book in the series will tie things up but this was not clear to me. Overall, I would say The Scent of Secrets was a good diversion. The series has some great potential, and I would like to learn more about what happens to Clara Vine next. It also peaked my curiosity in learning more about Eva Braun.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher in a Goodreads FirstReads giveaway in exchange for an honest review.
September 6, 2016
Some of the most vivid, visceral world-building I've ever read: Hitler's Berlin springs to terrifying life in the tiny details of daily life here--the Fuhrer-adoring crowds of vacationers, the shortages and petty rules, the ominous omnipresent paperwork and the forced smiles behind the jollity. Clara Vine, half British half German actress on the thriving Berlin film scene, is an appealing heroine and a believable spy; she's no James Bond vamp or lethal assassin with a vial of poison in her garter, simply an observant woman who makes good use of open ears and open eyes as she moves along the fringes of Nazi power. I will be picking up the next in the series at once!
March 11, 2025
It’s now 1938 and Clara has been working as an actress - and a British agent - in Nazi Germany for 5 years. If you are familiar with the history of the period, you will know that it’s the year of the Munich Agreement. After Europe teetering on the edge of war because of Hiltler’s posturing, British PM Neville Chamberlain returns home and declares “peace for our time.”
But this book, this series, is not about speeches or politicians. What is so compelling about it is that Ms. Thynne takes us behind the scenes as it were, moving among and gossiping with the wives and girlfriends of the leaders of the Third Reich. Clara, as a half-German, half-British actress, has been accepted among these women, sometimes used for their convenience, which she accepts because of her secret role.
Ms. Thynne has done a marvelous job of stage setting. We can feel the growing oppression and fear of ordinary people - the clothing and food shortages, the ever-present propaganda - not to mention that of the Jewish people who had once considered themselves as wholly German but now are outcasts and enemies. In this installment, Clara’s assignment is to befriend Eva Braun, the woman famous solely for being Hitler’s mistress. Clara also uncovers the answer to a puzzling disappearance of a woman on a cruise ship.
There are a number of plots and subplots but they are skillfully woven and none feel extraneous or garbled. I’ve enjoyed this series immensely and this may have been the best written so far. 4.5 stars.
But this book, this series, is not about speeches or politicians. What is so compelling about it is that Ms. Thynne takes us behind the scenes as it were, moving among and gossiping with the wives and girlfriends of the leaders of the Third Reich. Clara, as a half-German, half-British actress, has been accepted among these women, sometimes used for their convenience, which she accepts because of her secret role.
Ms. Thynne has done a marvelous job of stage setting. We can feel the growing oppression and fear of ordinary people - the clothing and food shortages, the ever-present propaganda - not to mention that of the Jewish people who had once considered themselves as wholly German but now are outcasts and enemies. In this installment, Clara’s assignment is to befriend Eva Braun, the woman famous solely for being Hitler’s mistress. Clara also uncovers the answer to a puzzling disappearance of a woman on a cruise ship.
There are a number of plots and subplots but they are skillfully woven and none feel extraneous or garbled. I’ve enjoyed this series immensely and this may have been the best written so far. 4.5 stars.
September 1, 2015
4.5 stars
Clara Vine, called "the German Vivien Leigh", might be a fictional construct, but it doesn't feel that way. She's not just an actress either: Clara is also a British spy.
This is the first book I've read that shows - from a relatively neutral standpoint - what it was like inside Germany during WWII: the travel restrictions on even German citizens, the shortages (and how they were disguised), the watchfulness and fear, the suspicion that falls on anyone or any change, the propaganda machine, and the hypocritical policies (with exceptions for high-ranking officials and their families, of course). Himmler's plans to transform his chicken-farming breeding program into one promoting racial hygiene might not be new to the readers, but through Clara's eyes we experience the shock of hearing them first-hand.
It's filled with details to bring the modern-day reader into 1938, resulting in a vivid story that I could almost see unfolding before me, watching the fear as German children were tested for suitability, as the youth were brainwashed into absolute and unthinking obedience, and the casual cruelty as people deemed unimportant are disregarded or imprisoned for no reason. People did what they could to mitigate the problem, but rightful paranoia kept many from acting.
Through The Scent of Secrets Eva Braun becomes a real person, trapped by Hitler's fear until she is virtually imprisoned, with no-one she can trust and no real hope for the future. For the first time I also felt some sympathy for her, rather than disgust at the thought, even while Rosa discovers the power of language and jargon to disguise and obscure horrific policies.
There were a few too many mentions of her specific lipstick (you don't need to keep telling me it's Elizabeth Arden Velvet Red) but I can understand the details of the dresses, the designers, the makeup and the perfumes; Clara is an actress, and appearances matter tremendously.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Clara Vine, called "the German Vivien Leigh", might be a fictional construct, but it doesn't feel that way. She's not just an actress either: Clara is also a British spy.
This is the first book I've read that shows - from a relatively neutral standpoint - what it was like inside Germany during WWII: the travel restrictions on even German citizens, the shortages (and how they were disguised), the watchfulness and fear, the suspicion that falls on anyone or any change, the propaganda machine, and the hypocritical policies (with exceptions for high-ranking officials and their families, of course). Himmler's plans to transform his chicken-farming breeding program into one promoting racial hygiene might not be new to the readers, but through Clara's eyes we experience the shock of hearing them first-hand.
It's filled with details to bring the modern-day reader into 1938, resulting in a vivid story that I could almost see unfolding before me, watching the fear as German children were tested for suitability, as the youth were brainwashed into absolute and unthinking obedience, and the casual cruelty as people deemed unimportant are disregarded or imprisoned for no reason. People did what they could to mitigate the problem, but rightful paranoia kept many from acting.
Through The Scent of Secrets Eva Braun becomes a real person, trapped by Hitler's fear until she is virtually imprisoned, with no-one she can trust and no real hope for the future. For the first time I also felt some sympathy for her, rather than disgust at the thought, even while Rosa discovers the power of language and jargon to disguise and obscure horrific policies.
There were a few too many mentions of her specific lipstick (you don't need to keep telling me it's Elizabeth Arden Velvet Red) but I can understand the details of the dresses, the designers, the makeup and the perfumes; Clara is an actress, and appearances matter tremendously.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
September 22, 2015
The WWII era is popular fodder for historical fiction. In Jane Thynne's new book, "The Scent of Secrets," we get a somewhat new take on the time period. Rather than a book telling the stories of the "have nots" (the Jews, those suffering on the homefront, etc.) Thynne has given readers a historical fiction book which primarily focuses on the "haves" -- those high up in the Nazi party, their wives, and other people who found themselves in the favor of the Third Reich. It made for interesting reading.
"The Scent of Secrets" contains three loosely-linked story lines, with the dominant story focusing on Clara Vine, a German/British actress secretly working as a spy for the British government. Clara befriends Eva Braun in an attempt to extract intelligence, and to aid a resistance movement among Nazi soldiers.
While the book's prologue starts with intrigue, I found the first few chapters to be quite slow, and it took awhile for the characters and plot line to develop. However, just before the half way point of the book the author hit her stride and the book came alive with vivid descriptions of time and place. I wanted to keep reading and enjoyed the pacing.
3.5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for a galley of this book in exchange for an honest review.
"The Scent of Secrets" contains three loosely-linked story lines, with the dominant story focusing on Clara Vine, a German/British actress secretly working as a spy for the British government. Clara befriends Eva Braun in an attempt to extract intelligence, and to aid a resistance movement among Nazi soldiers.
While the book's prologue starts with intrigue, I found the first few chapters to be quite slow, and it took awhile for the characters and plot line to develop. However, just before the half way point of the book the author hit her stride and the book came alive with vivid descriptions of time and place. I wanted to keep reading and enjoyed the pacing.
3.5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley and Ballantine Books for a galley of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 18, 2019
One of my favorite writers of historical crime fiction is Philip Kerr, who died in 2018. I knew that his wife, Jane Thynne, also wrote fiction set in the Nazi era, so I thought I’d give one of her books a try when I was offered a daily audiobook deal on this title.
Thynne, like Kerr, has clearly done the research about conditions, institutions, characters and events in Nazi-era Germany. Her world-building is thorough and evocative. While Kerr’s style is hard-boiled, Thynne’s is woman-in-peril thriller. Since Clara Vine is both a German film star and a secret agent for the British, it’s not surprising that she’s under constant threat. But Thynne includes dangerous situations for a couple of other female characters, which helps emphasize the fear that free floated over Nazi Germany, even before war broke out.
In recent years there have been way too many exploitative novels about the WW2 era targeted at a female audience, including several coming from major publishers. Thynne’s book doesn’t have a deep message—it’s a thriller, no more and no less—but I appreciate that she put in the research work and I didn’t feel like she was taking advantage of a tragic history for a quick buck.
Thynne, like Kerr, has clearly done the research about conditions, institutions, characters and events in Nazi-era Germany. Her world-building is thorough and evocative. While Kerr’s style is hard-boiled, Thynne’s is woman-in-peril thriller. Since Clara Vine is both a German film star and a secret agent for the British, it’s not surprising that she’s under constant threat. But Thynne includes dangerous situations for a couple of other female characters, which helps emphasize the fear that free floated over Nazi Germany, even before war broke out.
In recent years there have been way too many exploitative novels about the WW2 era targeted at a female audience, including several coming from major publishers. Thynne’s book doesn’t have a deep message—it’s a thriller, no more and no less—but I appreciate that she put in the research work and I didn’t feel like she was taking advantage of a tragic history for a quick buck.
August 4, 2019
The first chapter was promising, but I managed to read only 28% of this book before giving up because nothing was happening and I wasn't enjoying it. The book was drowned in too many descriptions. The 16 references to Elizabeth Arden cosmetics made me wonder whether the author had a product placement deal with the company. This just wasn't for me.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
November 27, 2019
I did not read the two earlier books of this series and just went with this one to try out as I was a fan of Philip Kerr and did not realize his wife wrote about WWII.
This was a very different viewpoint coming from the experiences of a fairly young female, half English, half German. She played more than one role since she was a movie actress but worked quietly as a British agent. Clara was a fairly quiet presence, and while there were dangerous events and subtle tension it seemed a graceful dance of espionage without weapons being utilized.
I enjoyed the book with its inclusion of Chanel, her perfumes and Nazi collaboration as well as the assignment given to Clara to get close to Eva Braun, a task she succeeds in.
Library Loan
This was a very different viewpoint coming from the experiences of a fairly young female, half English, half German. She played more than one role since she was a movie actress but worked quietly as a British agent. Clara was a fairly quiet presence, and while there were dangerous events and subtle tension it seemed a graceful dance of espionage without weapons being utilized.
I enjoyed the book with its inclusion of Chanel, her perfumes and Nazi collaboration as well as the assignment given to Clara to get close to Eva Braun, a task she succeeds in.
Library Loan
June 11, 2015
I beg all historical fiction fans to give this book a try. It was 110% worth my time, maybe you'll find yourself falling in love as well. :)
I received a first reads copy of this, and immediately dove in, expecting it to be mediocre at best. I was so wrong!
To me, this book was completely enchanting. This is my favorite genre- real events, real people, new theories. This novel was perfect for me. It took me a long while to finish, which is good for me- I was able to savor every word.
The theme was sense of smell, and the author used this in more than just the plot, which heavily involves perfume. She worked it into the scenery, the description. The details were vivid, and I enjoyed the long descriptions of pre WWII Germany. Clara was a great main character, and I loved the author's interpretation of Eva Braun. I am going to read more of Jane Thynne's novels, but surely none can top this one. I don't know if you'll love it like I did, I saw that others rated it lower, but perhaps it will strike your fancy. Please give it a try, it was 110% worth my time.
I received a first reads copy of this, and immediately dove in, expecting it to be mediocre at best. I was so wrong!
To me, this book was completely enchanting. This is my favorite genre- real events, real people, new theories. This novel was perfect for me. It took me a long while to finish, which is good for me- I was able to savor every word.
The theme was sense of smell, and the author used this in more than just the plot, which heavily involves perfume. She worked it into the scenery, the description. The details were vivid, and I enjoyed the long descriptions of pre WWII Germany. Clara was a great main character, and I loved the author's interpretation of Eva Braun. I am going to read more of Jane Thynne's novels, but surely none can top this one. I don't know if you'll love it like I did, I saw that others rated it lower, but perhaps it will strike your fancy. Please give it a try, it was 110% worth my time.
Read
January 6, 2016What a decadent beginning of a new series! This historical mystery was pitched to me as the Real Housewives of Nazi Berlin and that is an apt description. Clara Vine has both British and German ancestry and finds herself working as a film actress in Germany in the late 1930s. She is ideally position to spy on the wives of high-ranking Nazi officials on behalf of the British. I hesitate to call this light mystery, as the topic is anything but, yet Thynne's storytelling moves quickly, glancing over complicated issues and fascinating historical characters with just enough depth and detail. The portrayal of both ordinary and elite German lifestyles is evocative and fascinating. This would make a great BBC miniseries and I can't wait for the next instalment!
September 10, 2018
DNF. Vapid, insipid, shallow, purple prose. Oh, to be a famous actress and a spy and make pithy observations on the poor treatment of the Jews. How perfectly delightful! When Clara Vane met with Coco Chanel, I bounced.
September 9, 2015
The Scent of Secrets is a historical fiction meets murder-mystery combination that immediately captured my attention. Set in World War II Germany, the novel's heroine is Clara Vine, part-time actress/spy. Having infiltrated the German movie industry, she is able to use her connections to the upper echelons of the Nazi party (mostly via their wives) to help aid British intelligence. Though well received, her intelligence gathering assignments are not the only things putting her at risk - she is also half-Jewish and has a British father. When her career gives her the opportunity to have unimaginable access to Eva Braun, Hitler's girlfriend, the stakes suddenly become much higher...
Thynne does a nice job of creating a heroine who is believable and likeable. Clara is clever and smart, which made it easy not to get frustrated with the decisions that she makes. The rest of the cast of characters are also interesting and well written. The wives and Eva Braun tend to come across a little "real housewives"-ish, but not in a bad way. Though I didn't really love the romance subplot of the novel, it wasn't too distracting.
While the setting of the novel initially had me wondering if this was a book I'd enjoy, Thynne tastefully handles the political climate and keeps the plot focused more on the spy intrigue at hand. Obviously, there are some sensitive subjects/topics broached, but again - I'd classify this more of a historical mystery than a novel about WWII.
Overall an engaging read that looks like it is going to be the first in a series!
Disclaimer: I received access to an ARC of this novel via NetGallery and the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.
Thynne does a nice job of creating a heroine who is believable and likeable. Clara is clever and smart, which made it easy not to get frustrated with the decisions that she makes. The rest of the cast of characters are also interesting and well written. The wives and Eva Braun tend to come across a little "real housewives"-ish, but not in a bad way. Though I didn't really love the romance subplot of the novel, it wasn't too distracting.
While the setting of the novel initially had me wondering if this was a book I'd enjoy, Thynne tastefully handles the political climate and keeps the plot focused more on the spy intrigue at hand. Obviously, there are some sensitive subjects/topics broached, but again - I'd classify this more of a historical mystery than a novel about WWII.
Overall an engaging read that looks like it is going to be the first in a series!
Disclaimer: I received access to an ARC of this novel via NetGallery and the publisher in exchange for an unbiased review.
November 10, 2015
Clara Vine, a half-Jewish Anglo-German, uses her unique access to the upper echelons of pre-war Nazi society to spy for her native Britain. The novel richly fuses fact and fiction with a cast of real Nazis and their British admirers, such as the Mitford sisters and the Duke and Duchess of Windsor. Clara Vine, through her friendship with Eva Braun, finds herself enmeshed in a plot to assassinate Hitler. The setting of pre-war Germany is a treasure trove, and the irresistibly fresh perspective of Nazi wives puts a new spin on an ever-fascinating era, fraught with glamour, political tension, tragedy, and romance."
So I had such high hopes for this book. I loved the premise and the cover was so beautiful I was really excited to read it and I must say I am super disappointed about it :(
It was a long drawn out read and I know it's the first in a trilogy but there was so much left hanging. It is suppose to be about the main character getting involved with the upper society of the Reich in that era. It doesn't happen very often. She hangs out with Hitler's girlfriend about three times and they are best friends?!
It was beautifully descriptive and I felt like I was there for some points but overall I would not read this again. I could see it appealing to people who love historical drama but for me, it was a miss.
On a side note: I did not know how involved Coco Chanel was in the war and on the German side.
So I had such high hopes for this book. I loved the premise and the cover was so beautiful I was really excited to read it and I must say I am super disappointed about it :(
It was a long drawn out read and I know it's the first in a trilogy but there was so much left hanging. It is suppose to be about the main character getting involved with the upper society of the Reich in that era. It doesn't happen very often. She hangs out with Hitler's girlfriend about three times and they are best friends?!
It was beautifully descriptive and I felt like I was there for some points but overall I would not read this again. I could see it appealing to people who love historical drama but for me, it was a miss.
On a side note: I did not know how involved Coco Chanel was in the war and on the German side.
July 13, 2016
I fell for Cara Vine after trying The Pursuit of Pearls on Audible. This series makes me feel like I've been transported to Berlin in the late 1930's & am experiencing the drama along with Clara! The Scent of Secrets was another winner. Riveting. Fantastic research & writing. Wonderful narrator on Audible. Loved it! I read that Book #5 Solitaire comes out late in 2016. Can't wait!
November 27, 2015
Give me some historical fiction, with a Paris backdrop and some fictional Coco Chanel and I'm a happy girl. A really unique read.
September 25, 2017
I must say I find the quality in this series a bit mixed. The heroine is a bit boring and the plots have very predictable motifs: Clara, our protagonist, is alway brave but tense, there is always a bittersweet love interest, sometimes the same love interest(!!), and the books all begin with the death of a young German woman. But somehow the stories remain interesting, if for no other reason than the vast amount of research the author must have done on Berlin and its many historical buildings, from the Reich Chancellory to the many unique cafes and forbidden nightclubs, all pointing to a compelling portrait of a vibrant prewar culture descending into madness. All of this is gone, has disappeared since massive bombings destroyed most of the city in WWII so the descriptions of these places and this time have a poignancy and a fascination to them. Another interesting twist is that the series focuses on the effect of the Nazi regime on the lives of ordinary Aryan women. Oh yeah, and Coco Chanel, she of the overpriced handbags and haute couture, was most likely a Nazi collaborator.
February 19, 2021
I wasn't sure about this book as it is the third in a series but it was fine as a stand alone. Clara Vine is a half German, half English actress who is working for British Intelligence in 1938, right on the brink of World War II. Her assignment is to befriend Eva Braun and try to find out what Hitler is up to.
My favorite genre is World War II and this was another fun read. Clara is a great character and the whole book is very well written. If you like war stories, give this one a try.
My favorite genre is World War II and this was another fun read. Clara is a great character and the whole book is very well written. If you like war stories, give this one a try.
May 2, 2018
Excellent look at Germany in 1938
True to life details give sickening urgency to this fictional spy story. Recommended for fans of World War II novels.
True to life details give sickening urgency to this fictional spy story. Recommended for fans of World War II novels.
October 15, 2023
Really enjoyed this one, with Eva Braun a main character.
January 9, 2015
August, 1938. Paris is a city living on its nerves and the threat of war hangs heavy as a distant thunderstorm on a summer's day. British actress, Clara Vine, is in Paris to film her latest movie, having left Berlin under a cloud. Joseph Goebbels has become increasingly suspicious that Clara has been mingling in Berlin society and passing snippets of information to her contacts in the British Embassy. It would have been absurd, if it hadn't also been true...With war becoming increasingly likely, Clara is approached by an undercover British operative, Guy Hamilton, who asks her to perform a task for her country: to befriend Eva Braun, Hitler's girlfriend, and to pass on any information she can gather. Clara knows that to undertake this task is to put herself back in danger. But she also knows that soon she may have to do everything in her power to protect her country.
The "war" of the title is what the Germans called the Anschluss - the union with Austria forbidden under the Treaty of Versailles which Hitler broke. However there is much mention of flowers throughout the book,in decor and of describing German women so it's a great title.
Thynne has done her research and paints a vivid picture of the time. What makes her books different from other Nazi Germany series out there is her interest in the domestic lives of German women and Nazi wives.
I enjoy hearing about the perfumes of the time,Chanel,je reviens,Elizabeth Arden,blue grass and in this perfumes plays a part in the plot as Clara has to try and befriend Eva Braun who likes to dabble in perfume making and who makes a bespoke perfume for Clara.The story begins with a murder on the cruise liner Wilhelm Gustoff and there is a link to the perfume there,in that the Nazis believe it could contain poison and there is a plot to kill Hitler. (there is a plot to overthrow him,however that;s a different thread of the story ). Clara discovers something much more important that the Nazis overlook.
Also,interesting to hear about the actresses of the time Leni Riefenstohl,Zarah Leander and of the fashions of the time,plus icons of that time.
Interesting to hear that Times Magazine named Hitler man of the year 1938,yet war was brewing.Seemed no one believed he was a threat.Clara is surrounded by some of the most evil people in history,Goebbels,Himmler,Ribbentrop and has to spend time in tittle tattle with their wives,however she can pick up information in this way, you can feel the tension and fear. We also see how the jealousy between the men,can become an advantage to Clara who has to be an actress in all things. It is clear not all Germans were bad or compliant and it was good to hear of attempted plots and the little acts of defiance from the citizens. Particularly liked that Rosa took control of her life. There is some English humour too eg describing Hitler as patron saint of florists. Like learning historical facts eg the cruise liner the Wilhelm Gustoff was a real cruise liner which was torpedoed in 1945,had hosted the pride of strength through joy programme in 38 and was sunk 12 years to the day,Hitler seized power,seemed to symbolize the destruction of the third reich.
Brilliant series and can't wait for the next one.
The "war" of the title is what the Germans called the Anschluss - the union with Austria forbidden under the Treaty of Versailles which Hitler broke. However there is much mention of flowers throughout the book,in decor and of describing German women so it's a great title.
Thynne has done her research and paints a vivid picture of the time. What makes her books different from other Nazi Germany series out there is her interest in the domestic lives of German women and Nazi wives.
I enjoy hearing about the perfumes of the time,Chanel,je reviens,Elizabeth Arden,blue grass and in this perfumes plays a part in the plot as Clara has to try and befriend Eva Braun who likes to dabble in perfume making and who makes a bespoke perfume for Clara.The story begins with a murder on the cruise liner Wilhelm Gustoff and there is a link to the perfume there,in that the Nazis believe it could contain poison and there is a plot to kill Hitler. (there is a plot to overthrow him,however that;s a different thread of the story ). Clara discovers something much more important that the Nazis overlook.
Also,interesting to hear about the actresses of the time Leni Riefenstohl,Zarah Leander and of the fashions of the time,plus icons of that time.
Interesting to hear that Times Magazine named Hitler man of the year 1938,yet war was brewing.Seemed no one believed he was a threat.Clara is surrounded by some of the most evil people in history,Goebbels,Himmler,Ribbentrop and has to spend time in tittle tattle with their wives,however she can pick up information in this way, you can feel the tension and fear. We also see how the jealousy between the men,can become an advantage to Clara who has to be an actress in all things. It is clear not all Germans were bad or compliant and it was good to hear of attempted plots and the little acts of defiance from the citizens. Particularly liked that Rosa took control of her life. There is some English humour too eg describing Hitler as patron saint of florists. Like learning historical facts eg the cruise liner the Wilhelm Gustoff was a real cruise liner which was torpedoed in 1945,had hosted the pride of strength through joy programme in 38 and was sunk 12 years to the day,Hitler seized power,seemed to symbolize the destruction of the third reich.
Brilliant series and can't wait for the next one.
August 2, 2015
I want to thank Ballantine books and Netgalley for allowing me to read this book in advance in exchange for my honest review of this book.
I want to say.. I was blown away by how much I enjoyed this book. I was expecting a standard, mediocre WW2 novel with the same tired lady spy plot as every other one. I was completely wrong. It has been awhile since I have eagerly turned pages and have been caught off guard when the story ends. I did exclaim at the last page "This can't be the end!" and I am left hopeful Jane Thynne will continue the story.
Clara Vine, half English/half German, actress soaks in the scents and scenes of 1938 Paris. Recently completing her filming in Berlin, she is eager to escape the weariness of Berlin for the vibrancy of Paris. She mixes company with Coco Chanel and relishes in the simple delights of local cafes. All the while, harboring her secret occupation as a spy. There is mention of prior loves lost to the espionage business and hurts that Clara is quietly nursing as she moves on with her life. She is soon asked to undertake her most dangerous mission yet, become the confidant of Hitler's mistress Eva Braun. Already accustomed to moving in the hierarchy of the Nazi echelons, Clara begins to befriend the lonely, provincial Braun. Clara soon learns the vicious world of the Nazi housewives may lead to her exposure as a half Jew and spy career. Despite her growing affection for Braun, Clara must stay the course because the information she gathers already has come at a great price.
I highly recommend this book! The historical facts Thynne weaves through out the novel are fascinating. I did not know Hitler was a committed vegetarian. I intend to read some biographies on Eva Braun as a result of this book. Well done, Ms. Thynne!
July 4, 2015
ARC received from NetGalley.
As I understand it, Secrets is part of a trilogy first published in the UK, and now a US publisher is releasing it. However, they are publishing the third book first, then releasing the others. Odd way to do things, but I've read the books can be read out of order.
In this third book of the trilogy, actress Clara Vine has successfully hidden her Jewish roots in order to work in Germany, but throughout the story she worries if she's able to conceal her involvement as a spy. She's charged with getting closer to Eva Braun and find information useful to the British government. A subplot involving a secretary for a high-ranking female minister in the Nazi party ties into an early mystery.
I enjoyed the story. I haven't read much WWII fiction set in Germany, so I found this a nice change of pace from what I usually read. Now that I know this is the third book in a trilogy, though, I would like to know if Clara's story will continue. As the book nears its conclusion it really gets interesting, and it seems to be left open for another installment.
As I understand it, Secrets is part of a trilogy first published in the UK, and now a US publisher is releasing it. However, they are publishing the third book first, then releasing the others. Odd way to do things, but I've read the books can be read out of order.
In this third book of the trilogy, actress Clara Vine has successfully hidden her Jewish roots in order to work in Germany, but throughout the story she worries if she's able to conceal her involvement as a spy. She's charged with getting closer to Eva Braun and find information useful to the British government. A subplot involving a secretary for a high-ranking female minister in the Nazi party ties into an early mystery.
I enjoyed the story. I haven't read much WWII fiction set in Germany, so I found this a nice change of pace from what I usually read. Now that I know this is the third book in a trilogy, though, I would like to know if Clara's story will continue. As the book nears its conclusion it really gets interesting, and it seems to be left open for another installment.
October 25, 2015
WWII books are intriguing and The Scent of Secrets is even more so as it is told from a female perspective. There was so much political intrigue and moving of power during this time it is fascinating to hear about the women who were connected to and influenced these men.
The Scent of Secrets follows Clara’s story. Though the beginning’s description of Paris sounded off the story pulls you in quickly. As Clara meets new and interesting characters, Coco Chanel and Eva Braun, the tension builds, you become fearful for her and can’t stop reading with the need to know if she makes it through alright.
Thynne weaves in the historical accuracies well and re-creates this time of uncertainty. In the end we are left with a bit still hanging in the air and one can only hope there are plans for the story to continue.
If you enjoy WWII reads or historical fiction with a new perspective you should check out The Scent of Secrets!
The Scent of Secrets follows Clara’s story. Though the beginning’s description of Paris sounded off the story pulls you in quickly. As Clara meets new and interesting characters, Coco Chanel and Eva Braun, the tension builds, you become fearful for her and can’t stop reading with the need to know if she makes it through alright.
Thynne weaves in the historical accuracies well and re-creates this time of uncertainty. In the end we are left with a bit still hanging in the air and one can only hope there are plans for the story to continue.
If you enjoy WWII reads or historical fiction with a new perspective you should check out The Scent of Secrets!
June 12, 2015
The story is set in 1938 and the main character, .Clara Vine, is a half English, half German actress (and a spy) who finds herself working on German films. When she meets a man in Paris, she is drawn into a plot to meet Eva Braun and become her confidant. Braun iwas Hitler's mistress and a big movie fan. She had written Clara a fan letter so it was easy to become friends when the opportunity presented itself. Clara. used their friendship to socialize with the wives of members of the German military as well as some of the high ranking officers themselves.
The author created a well researched but chilling historiy about a time right before Hitler unleached his aggression on Europe and also set forth to exterminate Jews from the world. Her descriptions takes the reader right into pre war Berlin, Munich and even Berghof, Hitler's country home in the Bavarian Alps.
The author created a well researched but chilling historiy about a time right before Hitler unleached his aggression on Europe and also set forth to exterminate Jews from the world. Her descriptions takes the reader right into pre war Berlin, Munich and even Berghof, Hitler's country home in the Bavarian Alps.
June 22, 2015
I received Scent of Secrets as an ARC from Netgalley. I have to say this is one of the best novels I've read in a long time.
The main character is Clara Vine, half English, half German actress and spy. Vine's character is believable and well crafted. I was almost picturing her in my minds eye as I was reading. I won't go into a synopsis, as many others here have done a superb job already.
Suffice it to say that I thoroughly enjoyed the novel, I found myself longing for a quiet moment to read a few more pages. I would have liked to have seen the other main character - Rosa, a little more fleshed out, but still an awesome read.
The main character is Clara Vine, half English, half German actress and spy. Vine's character is believable and well crafted. I was almost picturing her in my minds eye as I was reading. I won't go into a synopsis, as many others here have done a superb job already.
Suffice it to say that I thoroughly enjoyed the novel, I found myself longing for a quiet moment to read a few more pages. I would have liked to have seen the other main character - Rosa, a little more fleshed out, but still an awesome read.
September 29, 2015
I just completed the ARC for The Scent of Secrets by Jane Thynne thanks to Net Galley. It is #3 in her Berlin Series (I did not read #1 or #2, but now I am dying to!) The book released on Sept. 15. It's historical fiction, but contains espionage, romance, and mystery. Beautifully written, wonderful descriptions of the places and era. There were many times I found myself catching my breath, worried what was going to happen to the main character Clara Vine. Ms. Thynne did an excellent job of weaving the fictional characters in with the historical figures, including Eva Braun, Hiltler, Goebbels & Himmler. Extremely well done. I highly recommend to anyone who loves WWII.
June 23, 2016
Erm, this just didn't work for me. I didn't like the plot or the characters and I did find it a little tiresome most of the time. i keep trying to add the title of A War of FLowers but it seems that GR just want me to add the book underneath the US title. I will never understand why they do this but I am sure 'they' know what they are doing. I think there are probably better books out there about this period of history and setting, so unfortunately, unable to recommend to the normal crew at the moment.
November 5, 2015
I just couldn't get into this. One review said to wait until the halfway point before it got really good...but I just can't wait for that. Why can't it grab my attention before? Another review said the author sets each scene beautifully...but when it sounds like she's using every fancy word in the dictionary and it takes 4 kindle pages to describe one scene, ain't nobody got time for that.
I really wanted to like this as it's totally in my wheelhouse but it was unoriginal and boring.
I really wanted to like this as it's totally in my wheelhouse but it was unoriginal and boring.
September 17, 2017
Historical fiction is one of my favorite genre of novels, especially WW II. This novel deals with Hitler and the other leaders of the Nazi party prior to the formal declaration of war. Clara Vine sets out to befriend Eva Braun to pass secrets about Hitler to the British.
There were many dangling strings left at the end of the novel as to the effectiveness of all the spying and finangling of the information shared.
There were many dangling strings left at the end of the novel as to the effectiveness of all the spying and finangling of the information shared.
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