Books The Paris Express by Emma Donoghue (Author)

The Paris Express by Emma Donoghue is a richly detailed historical novel set in 1895, centered around the real-life Montparnasse train derailment near Paris. The story follows a diverse cast of characters aboard the train journeying from Granville on the Normandy coast to Paris, capturing their thoughts, interactions, and biographies. Notable characters include artists, students, a French anarchist on a mission, a photographer's secretary interested in early filmmaking, and everyday workers, reflecting the social and political tensions of Belle Époque France.

Donoghue vividly explores themes of social justice, inequality, technological progress, and cultural shifts, weaving personal stories into a broader narrative about the era's transformative energy. The impending train disaster adds suspense, while the novel highlights the struggles of women and marginalized groups gaining voice and agency. The detailed depiction of the train and historical context provides a moving snapshot of a pivotal historical moment, offering both compelling drama and insightful social commentary.