Author(s): Embassie Susberry

Fiction General

Inspired by the incredible true story of Josephine Baker in the French Resistance, this is a heart-wrenching, unforgettable tale of the strength of the human spirit in the darkest days of World War II. In the City of Light, one woman will stand against darkness. Paris, 1941. With Nazi occupation imminent, journalist Elodie Mitchell plans to return home to Chicago. But an unexpected invitation to a Josephine Baker show changes everything. Mistaken for the star, Elodie is whisked backstage, where she uncovers an underground resistance movement hidden beneath the glitz and glamour. Drawn into a whisper network of spies, Elodie accepts a perilous mission: to go undercover as Josephine's cousin and gather vital intelligence. In a world on the edge of darkness, Elodie must summon unwavering courage to protect her beloved adopted city and its people – and getting caught is not an option. A wartime epic about love, bravery and fighting against prejudice in all its forms, perfect for fans of Kate Quinn, Marie Benedict and Pam Jenoff. Readers adore Code Name Butterfly ‘A WWII story with a difference. It had moments of both humour and fear, romance and sadness. A good read which I would recommend.’ Reader Review ‘If you’re looking for a novel that captures the turbulent swirl of events from pre-war Paris to life in France after the surrender of the French government in the summer of 1940 this could be the book for you. Like all the best accounts of these troubled times, the reader is kept abreast of events through the narrative that captures the everyday life of the protagonist Elodie (Ely), who meets the singer Josephine Baker and is drawn into the world of espionage and intrigue. The writing is executed beautifully.’ Reader Review ‘The setting and atmosphere is stellar! I felt like I was in Paris, swept up in the tense and bizarre mixture of avant-garde, carefree life as it became increasingly more unsettling. Susberry’s vivid descriptions were phenomenal. I’ve read many books with this setting, but none as wonderfully immersive as this one.’ Reader Review ‘I don't want to be dramatic, but this book was effing brilliant. Could not recommend it more! Have never read a book so fast!’ Reader Review ‘There wasn’t any part of this book I did not love!! It draws the reader in from the first page and doesn’t let go. Please pick it up! It won’t disappoint.’ Reader Review ‘A really interesting, well researched and well written book, it captures the flavour of France at the start of WWII beautifully. There are so many people who dare to try to change the way things are, and this acts as a nice tribute to them. An excellent read.’ Reader Review ‘This is quite a different WW II historical novel … This is a complex story, about more than just WWII in France or Josephine Baker. It's about family, racism, and courage. I loved it.’ Reader Review