On February 4th, 2025, over 30 guests gathered at The Virginia Robinson Gardens for an event featuring author William Grubman. The day began with a reception on the patio outside the Pool Pavilion. Attendees sipped beverages and enjoyed light pastries while overlooking the sparkling swimming pool.
Once all the guests had assembled, Grubman—known for his bestselling novel, The Storm Over Paris—took the floor in the Billiard Room. He immediately engaged the audience with his quick wit and charming demeanor as he shared stories from his life. He spoke about his upbringing in Los Angeles, his varied interests, including flying planes, and the fascinating journey that led him to write his novel. The Storm Over Paris is a thriller set in 1942 Paris, telling the fictional story of an acclaimed Jewish art dealer forced to authenticate masterworks for the Nazis while maintaining his ethics and keeping his family alive.
Perhaps the central question answered in Mr. Grubman’s lecture was: how does one go from never having written a novel to crafting a gripping bestseller set in a city halfway across the world, in an era before their birth? The journey, as Grubman explained, involved extensive study, hard work, meticulous research, and plenty of the wit and charm the audience experienced firsthand during the lecture.
Following the lecture, guests enjoyed a multi-course luncheon catered by Rosane Azettat of We Help You Host. The herbed-salmon and raspberry frangipane tart received rave reviews.
The event left attendees inspired by Grubman’s journey and reminded them that it is possible to accomplish unique and significant achievements with effort, passion, and a willingness to explore new paths. Under the clear skies and in the beautiful setting of The Virginia Robinson Gardens, it was a day to remember.
The Storm Over Paris is available for purchase on Amazon and will be followed by two more novels in the trilogy.
Post by Natalie Gordon Beiser
Friends of Robinson Gardens Board Member
Photos by Linda Meadows
Friends of Robinson Gardens Board Member
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