The award by Danielle Steele

"The award" by Danielle Steele - Recognition of contribution. 

This book is published by Corgi in 2017 and has 400 pages. 

France is occupied by Germany in WWII. Gaëlle's house is taken over by Germans. Her father is shot dead. She works for the resistance saving Jew children and she does immense service to the nation in another act but is eventually accused and denounced as collaborator. She goes on to become a model, moves to America and marries. 

Will she remain accused as collaborator? Will her good deeds be recognized? How will her life be? What hurdles will she face? Will she live happily ever after? Will she be awarded Legion of honour?

The story starts in 1940's when Germany occupied France. Gaëlle de Barbet was a sixteen year old girl. German occupation of France lasted more than four years. Then fate makes her a model and she goes to the top with her looks and hard work until she marries. Second half charts her life until her grand daughter takes up a mission. It shows us uneasy relationship between mother and daughter, attempts of reconciliation and problems faced.

First section of the story is very interesting, intense and unique. The story after this is not unique but still it's interesting. It moves from adventure to human relations. I think that first part is so good that second part pales. 

The story either makes reference to, or has as a character, well known fashion icons like Lucien Lelong, Christian Dior (who was covertly part of resistance) and Coco Channel (who was a collaborator).

Gaëlle's contribution was immense. She transported orphaned Jewish children to a village that had committed to take them across the border to Switzerland and save them from Nazi's. She also saved pieces of art, France's national treasures, from Nazi's. But what stands out is that she never expects recognition, nothing in return. She never even tries to clear the accusation of being a collaborator. Selflessness. 

Story starts with Gaëlle being awarded Legion of honour award after continuous efforts of her granddaughter. And then the entire story is narrated in flash back. It's different!

Danielle Steele writers stories about family, love and life. Her stories generally span many years and in certain sections appear documentary like. 

Why did I read this book? Author.     

What I didn't like? Less intense second part. 

What did I like? First part. 

 Recommend reading.