Coco Chanel

“The most thoroughly fleshed out of the new books about Chanel… . Ms. Chaney takes care to give detailed context all the way along, but not so much that she pulls us off the path. One appreciates her elegant tutorials.” — The Wall Street Journal“Stuffed with just-so details as it sketches the arc of a remarkable life.” — Harper’s Magazine“Relying on newly released love letters, private diaries, and reminiscences … and using Chanel’s own words wherever possible, Chaney reveals the woman behind the icon… . Most important here is Chaney’s insight into Chanel’s role in creating the modern, independent woman.” — Library Journal“Chaney’s engagement with her subject is evident throughout, and her exhaustive research into Chanel’s life—especially its darker, more enigmatic corners—and the cultural history she so profoundly impacted make the book as fascinating as it is informative.” — Kirkus Reviews“Deeply researched, Chaney’s enthralling biography unearths previously unavailable sources to reveal the elementally conflicted yet unequivocally gifted woman whose name will always be synonymous with sophistication and originality.” — Booklist

Lisa Chaney has taught at Oxford, covered cultural history for British TV and radio, and written for The Guardian and The Independent, among other publications. The author of two previous biographies, Elizabeth David and Hide-and-Seek With Angels: A Life of J.M. Barrie, she lives in York, England.