ABANDONED. Novel about colonial servant who is actually a spy in European household

[Emma]

Apologies for the lack of details as I haven’t actually read this book. But multiple people including a writer/professor I greatly respect have now recommended it and I can’t for the life of me recall the title. If I remember correctly, it’s set during colonial times in Europe (I believe in France or Italy), and follows a servant who is actually a spy from and/or for the colony (perhaps Vietnam??).

My understanding is that this isn’t a stereotypical cloak and daggers/adventure novel about espionage, but rather an examination of what it’s like to navigate split loyalties/sympathies. I believe it’s also translated into English rather than having originally been written in it. Other vague impressions I have but can’t confirm is that it was written in the 20th century but it’s set during the 1800s. And the family the spy works for is possibly diplomatic, like perhaps an ambassador’s family?

Does this ring any bells for anyone?? I would be so grateful if someone could help me.

[Kris]

Emma, around what year did you first hear about this book?

Can you tell us more about the spy - gender, age, special skills, work done as a servant, spy activities, etc.?

[Lobstergirl, au gratin]

Emma, are you still looking for this or did you find it?

[Kris]

No response, moving to Abandoned folder.

Emma (OP) was last active on the site in October 2018.