Set in Paris during World War II, "The World at Night" by Alan Furst follows the story of Jean Casson, a French motion picture producer who finds himself caught in the turmoil of the German occupation. The novel paints a vivid picture of life under foreign military rule, capturing the atmosphere of fear, betrayal, and forlorn love affairs in occupied France. Through Casson's journey from an apolitical social gadfly to a committed resistance fighter, the author explores themes of adaptation, determination, tragedy, and small victories rooted in chance and survival instinct.
The writing style of Alan Furst in "The World at Night" is praised for its detailed evocation of Paris during the Battle of France and its aftermath. The novel is commended for its authenticity, intricate plot, and the ability to transport readers to the era of espionage, fear, and resistance in occupied France during World War II.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
The book includes depictions of war, themes of collaboration with the enemy, and general tension related to living under occupation, which may be distressing for some readers.
Has Romance?
The book features a moderate level of romantic involvement, particularly through the protagonist's relationship with actress Citrine.
From The Publisher:
"First-rate research collaborates with first-rate imagination. . . . Superb."-The Boston Globe
Paris, 1940. The civilized, upper-class life of film producer Jean Casson is derailed by the German occupation of Paris, but Casson learns that with enough money, compromise, and connections, one need not deny oneself the pleasures of Parisian life. Somewhere inside Casson, though, is a stubborn romantic streak. When he's offered the chance to take part in an operation of the British secret service, this idealism gives him the courage to say yes. A simple mission, but it goes wrong, and Casson realizes he must gamble everything-his career, the woman he loves, life itself. Here is a brilliant re-creation of France-its spirit in the moment of defeat, its valor in the moment of rebirth.
Praise for The World at Night
"[The World at Night] earns a comparison with the serious entertainments of Graham Greene and John le Carré. . . . Gripping, beautifully detailed . . . an absorbing glimpse into the moral maze of espionage."-Richard Eder, Los Angeles Times
"[The World at Night] is the world of Eric Ambler, the pioneering British author of classic World War II espionage fiction. . . . The novel is full of keen dialogue and witty commentary . . . . Thrilling."-Herbert Mitgang, Chicago Tribune
"With the authority of solid research and a true fascination for his material, Mr. Furst makes idealism, heroism, and sacrifice believable and real."-David Walton, The Dallas Morning News
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About the Author:
Alan Furst, widely recognized as the master of the historical spy novel, is the author of A Hero of France, Midnight in Europe, Mission to Paris, and many other bestsellers. Born in New York, he lived for many years in Paris,…
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