Paris Undercover tells the remarkable story of two unlikely heroines, Etta Shiber, an American widow, and Kate Bonnefous, an English divorcée, who lived quietly together in Paris during the Nazi occupation. Despite their ordinary lives, they became involved in rescuing British and French soldiers trapped behind enemy lines, even smuggling them through Nazi checkpoints hidden in their car. The Gestapo eventually captured them, and after 18 months in prison, Etta was returned to the U.S. through a prisoner exchange. She published a memoir, Paris-Underground, which made her a celebrity and brought attention to Kate’s bravery. However, Kate remained in prison, unaware of the book that portrayed their heroic actions. Matthew Goodman’s research reveals the truth behind Etta’s memoir, exploring themes of deceit, betrayal, and redemption, while uncovering the unintended consequences of its publication.
Matthew Goodman is the author of four previous books of nonfiction. His book Eighty Days: Nellie Bly and Elizabeth Bisland’s History-Making Race Around the World was a national bestseller. His most recent book, The City Game: Triumph, Scandal, and a Legendary Basketball Team, received the New York City Book Award and was a finalist for the National Jewish Book Award. Goodman has appeared on numerous national radio shows, including NPR’s The Diane Rehm Show, All Things Considered, and On the Media.
Copies of the book Paris Undercover will be available for purchase and signing courtesy of Breakwater Books.
This program is free and open to all.
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