The Chanel Sisters: A Novel

The Chanel Sisters, written by Judithe Little, is a historical fiction novel written from the perspective of the youngest Chanel sister, Antoinette. The novel begins in the sisters’ youth, when they lose their mother and are sent away to the orphanage where they learned how to sew. The bond between Antoinette and Gabrielle “Coco” Chanel was portrayed and described throughout. Their life did not start out easy, but was a struggle to survive in a century where women were told who they should be, who to marry, how to act from social status, and being raised in a strict Catholic school convent. Antionette and Gabrielle were very strong willed women who did not give up on each other and supported each other through-out their lives. These two women lived their life the way they wanted, despite what others wanted for them. They wanted more for themselves, their determination, and passion to have a life they could be proud of and to leave a legacy better than they were given.The author’s telling of the sister’s adventures through their lives was beautifully told. Her use of imagery brought me directly into Antoinette’s life. I felt the love, passion, anger, hopes, dreams, and despair that the two sisters shared with each other and with the other characters in the book. The description of the era’s rules and society’s ethics was movingly depicted by the author. This novel was not about a fashion building industry but how two sisters beat the odds in overcoming society’s expectations of them.It is a romantic novel that will capture your attention till the end.

Definitely a good read - the early lives of Chanel sisters going back to life in orphanage. Suffering and loneliness they endured and rose above.

I’ve read several Chanel novels recently and found this one to be the best and the most accurate one. Antoinette Chanel makes a wonderful protagonist, telling her own version of the Chanel story. Perhaps, it’s because Ms. Little chose her as a central narrator instead of Coco or maybe because she was written in such a relatable, sympathetic way, I couldn’t help but root for her and her sisters as they were desperately trying to claw their way out of poverty and make a name for themselves in a world that only acknowledged good pedigree and social status. Also, I just have to mention how wonderfully Paris was presented through Antoinette’s eyes: it virtually comes alive right before your eyes and becomes a character of its own, not just a background for Chanel fashion house. If you’re hesitating between different Chanel novels, read this one - you won’t regret it, I promise! A wonderful work of historical biographical fiction.

What a beautiful story showing love of family, friends, and lovers to be the driving force of happiness in life. With hard work, determination, and love for each other, the Chanel sisters escaped poverty to acquire fame and fortune, but their happiness was based on those they loved and those who loved them.

This book provided a strong history of the background of Coco Chanel and her early life and family. I didn’t really like the style of writing and the voice / outlook of her younger sister, who is telling the story.

I have always been interested in what drove Gabriel to be a premier fashion designer. She had a curiosity and understanding of what women needed at the right time. Her sister Antoinette was a large influence on her business and a reliable source of strength through the years.Gabriel was gifted with creative ideas and talent to decompose the wearables and reconstruct them to fit flawlessly. Her fashions have stood the test of time and enjoy popularity even today.The novel was accurately titled as it was equally as much about Antoinette as Gabriel.

The Chanel Sisters is a really good book on several levels. First you have the well-researched social history of Paris at the turn of the century through the wild 20's. Second you have a fascinating look at forces, influences, and personal grit that created Coco Chanel, who was the most innovative French designer of her time. Third, the relationship between the sisters is beautifully told. I loved the story, the sisters climb to the top of the world of fashion world in the exciting City of Light, and excitedly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys well-written historical fiction. Anne Sloan

I loved this novel from start to finish. It's a historical fiction story written from the unique perspective of Coco Chanel's younger sister, Antoinette. Starting with their early, difficult years in a Catholic orphanage, and continuing toward what would one day become a fashion empire ... you'll cheer for these women as they strive for stability, career, romance, a sense of belonging, and “something better." I loved it and would read it again. I don't usually read historical fiction, but this novel has made me want to start delving more into this genre.

I loved this book & had a lot of empathy for Antoinette. It was really interesting to learn more about Coco's beloved sister, thank heavens they had each other during their difficult childhood.

Saw this book in a bookshop, so searched and downloaded on my Kindle. I was hooked from the end of the first chapter and the rest of the book did not disappoint.An excellent portrayal of how Gabrielle Chanel came be the infamous Coco Chanel. It details the hardships, the loves and loses along the way through the eyes of her sister.It is sad the book only goes up to 1921, just as the famous Chanel perfume was being developed, but the rest is history so to speak.I would recommend this book.

Carino ma non superlativo. Troppo incentrato sulle disgrazie di famiglia e poco su come hanno costruito un impero.

I found this book to be interesting in parts but very slow and drawn out.

A easy read and Informative.Paints avoid picture of the Chanel sisters and life in France during their early years.