The Barman of the Ritz
Le Barman du Ritz
An Immediate Bestseller
“Philippe Collin is a magnificent storyteller. This novel fascinates at every turn.”—Elle
When the Ritz becomes the Nazis’ favorite spot, its Jewish bartender has no choice but to keep working.
Based on a true story.
Paris, 1940. Despite the Occupation, the prestigious Ritz Hotel has managed to remain open. Its bar becomes a favorite spot for Nazis eager for a taste of French refinement. Its celebrated barman, Frank Meier, is forced to adapt to this new clientele. But he is hiding a secret that no one can find out: he is Jewish.
With every word and smile, the atmosphere becomes more and more suffocating. Yet Frank refuses to flee. With the unwitting help of the Nazis, Frank eventually uncovers secrets that help keep him and his loved ones alive—especially Luciano, his young apprentice, and Blanche, wife of the director of the Ritz and Frank’s impossible love—both of whom are Jewish too.
Betrayal, lies, and backstabbing raise the stakes for the bartender—with Frank always just one step ahead of fate.
As chilling as it is fascinating, and carried by its brilliant protagonist, The Barman of the Ritz reveals an untold story, uncovering the complex relationship between collaborators and the Résistance in wartime France.
Reviews
“A great novel.”—Le Parisien
“A fascinating character…”—Augustin Trapenard, La Grande Librairie
“Mixing together his knowledge of the period with psychological insights (…) Collin has created a heady cocktail.”—L’Express
“Philippe Collin is a magnificent storyteller. This novel fascinates at every turn.”—ELLE
“Masterful… a sweeping waltz between history and fiction in one of Paris’ chicest palaces.”—Le Journal du Dimanche