Skylark – Paris – Map Monday

Submitted: 2nd February 2026

Skylark – Paris – Map Monday

Where are we going?

PARIS

We head to Paris in this novel over two timelines – 1660s and 1940s where we travel to two different times but which share one thing – they are a prison for women whose wings are clipped if not removed completely. One is a restricted society and the removal of women to an asylum and the other – Paris during wartime.

Map of locations in Skylark

boarding pass new

The setting:

A very closed and restrictive society – in an asylum and during wartime. Two timelines which show resilience despite such restrictions and danger.

Map of locations in Skylark

Skylark Paula McLain

BookTrail Review

“Great tragedies don’t ask for great heroes—they ask for ordinary people willing to do the next right thing.”

The shining light in this novel is the two timelines which illustrate two very different sides of the same coin – that of the restrictions placed on women. The 1663 timeline takes us into asylum. And I can tell you, I felt as if I was taken there along with Alouette herself. I felt her pain, saw the horrors with my own eyes but also enjoyed the friendships I feel I forged with the characters there. What a group of remarkable women! I was in awe of them for sure.

When the story brings us to the 1940s, life just gets more complicated. Restrictions and abuses are just horrific and this thread shows more of that resilience I had witnessed already. I felt a heavy weight in these chapters for although I have read a lot about wartime, this felt personal somehow. Those trying to save others through dangerous times and at a personal risk too. There are some amazing ‘scenes’ and moments in this story. It’s a humbling read!Skylark might be the translation of the lead character Alouettes name but it signifies so much – the ability to fly to freedom, growing wings etc and it’s a beautiful poignant tapestry!