Mademoiselle Eiffel: A Novel By Aimie K. Runyan

From the acclaimed author of The School for German Brides and A Bakery in Paris, this evocative historical novel transports readers to nineteenth-century Paris, centering on the extraordinary life of Claire Eiffel. As the eldest daughter of the renowned architect Gustave Eiffel, Claire enjoys an education and opportunities rarely afforded to women of her time. However, her privileged world shatters when her mother dies, thrusting Claire into the roles of caregiver and household manager.

Despite the abrupt end to her idyllic childhood, Claire proves her worth. She becomes her father’s confidante and private secretary, mastering the intricacies of his architectural work and becoming vital to his success. Her growing resentment towards Gustave’s bright young protégé, Adolphe Salles, eventually transforms into a deep friendship and then love. Their marriage in 1885 solidifies the Eiffel legacy and positions Claire at the heart of Parisian society, just as her husband secures the monumental commission of the Eiffel Tower for the 1889 World’s Fair.

As Claire hosts esteemed guests like Thomas Edison and navigates the pressures of her elevated social position, the Eiffel family faces a dramatic crisis. Gustave’s involvement in the failed Panama Canal project leads to his imprisonment, threatening their hard-earned legacy. Claire must now navigate a perilous path to secure her father's freedom and protect their family’s renowned achievements.

Claire Eiffel’s tale is a powerful blend of love, devotion, and resilience, celebrating the remarkable woman behind the iconic tower and offering a poignant reflection on family, legacy, and the transformative power of ambition.