What If It's Love?

Bistro La Bohème #2

by Alix Nichols

An alternate cover edition exist here.

Can a Paris bistro heal a broken heart?

Charm, wit and poignancy abound in this gripping contemporary romance.

Introverted heiress Lena moves to Paris to nurse old wounds reopened by her neglectful boyfriend. Enter Rob, a charismatic and handsome Frenchman who waits tables at La Bohème -- a café on Lena’s street -- and has big dreams.

He makes her laugh and forget her insecurities. She stirs something infinitely tender in his soul. Before they know it, they’ve fallen for each other, even though both had good reasons to fight the budding love.

But their passionate romance is cut short when she discovers his dirty secret...

***

WHAT IF IT’S LOVE? is the first book in the “Bistro La Bohème” series.

Genres: Romance, France, New Adult, Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Rom Com

281 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2014

About the author

Alix Nichols is a caffeine addict, a fan of Mr. Darcy and an award-winning author on Book Riot's list of 100 must-read international romances.
She pens sexy romantic comedies and romantic fantasy. Her books have been described as "pure pleasure" (Kirkus Reviews) that “keep fans of romance hanging off the edge of your seat” (RT Book Reviews).
At the age of six, she released her first book. It featured highly creative spelling on a dozen pages stitched together and bound in velvet paper. Decades later, she still writes. Her spelling has improved (somewhat), and her books have topped bestseller charts around the world.
She lives in France with her family and their almost-human dog.

**To read a rom-com FREE, visit: alixnichols.com/freebies (just copy and paste into your browser).**

Series and Books:

ROMANTIC COMEDIES

It’s Raining Royals (newest series)

1. The Boss Prince
2. The Bastard Prince
3. The Beast Prince

La Bohème (complete series)

1. 
Winter’s Gift

2. What If It’s Love?

3. Falling for Emma

4. Under My Skin
You’re the One (companion novella, free to newsletter subscribers)

The Darcy Brothers (complete series)

1. Find You in Paris
2. Raphael’s Fling
3. The Perfect Catch
Clarissa and the Cowboy (companion novella)

Playing to Win (complete series)

1. Playing with Fire
2. Playing for Keeps
3. Playing Dirty

Coffee Shop Romances (standalones)


The Devil’s Own Chloe
Amanda’s Guide to Love
An Autumn in Paris

ROMANTIC FANTASY

Keepers of Xereill (complete series within a broader saga)

The Enforcer’s Lady (prequel novella)
1. The Traitor’s Bride
2. The Commander’s Captive
3. The Dragon’s Woman
4. The Samurai’s Lover

5. The Vestal’s Steward

Reviews

[Njkinny (Njkinny's Blog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

http://njkinny.blogspot.in/2014/07/bo...

"Curled up under my fluffy blanket, I'm summoning that pesky dream. What was it?... You're gone, and both of us are safer. Except... this thing I'm thinking of, This funny thing I have no name for, What if it's love?"

Lena is the only daughter of the rich Russian oligarch, Anton Malakhov but despite her privileged life, she is unlike any rich kid. She is shy, quiet and someone who just wants to find her place in the world. A lover of the Russian poetess, Marina Tsvetaeva, Lena is happy while reading and translating the poems of this great poet and feels that these poems connect with her life.

Wanting to become independent and get away from the shadow of her over protective father, Lena comes to the beautiful city of Paris and this is where she meets Rob, a handsome Frenchman who waits tables at the La Boheme Bistro, just under her apartment and the boy who takes her breath away every time he looks her way! But Rob has his own agenda for befriending her. He is poor, struggling to pay his college fees with no support from his family that feels he should return home and take over the family farming business! So when a man offers him huge sums of money in return for spying on Lena, he grudgingly agrees.

What starts as a sweet innocent attraction between these two very different people is tested in the fire of difficulties, misunderstandings and time. Are Lena and Rob's feelings for each other true?
What if it's love?

The cover is cute. The blurb is catchy and piques the reader's interest.

This is the first book by Alix Nichols that I have read and I was pleasantly surprised by the story. When I started the book, I thought that I already had it figured out but I was proved wrong at every turn. Whenever I thought I knew what was going to happen next, the author shocked me with a completely unexpected twist to the story.

Alix's writing style is fresh and engaging. Her idea of starting each chapter with a poem by Marina Tsvetaeva made me feel more connected to the story. I loved reading the poems and then their connection to the events in the book! :)

The author has done her research of Paris, the college scene there and the various places around Paris. She also has her knowledge up-to-date on the translation techniques and the poet, Marina Tsvetaeva. I could visualize easily the beauty of Paris, the coziness of the Bistro La Boheme, the chatter of the college kids who came to the bistro to hand out and the rich cultural history of the city and the other places mentioned in the book. Alix also beautifully takes the readers to Russia and expertly compares the warm and lovers paradise, Paris to the cold but nevertheless very beautiful city of Moscow. She even compares the people of each place and I was thoroughly entertained reading about it! :)

The characterization is expertly done and I felt connected to the people in the story. All the people in the book feel real and I felt that I already knew them. There is Rob's grandfather who is a dreamer, the realistic father and mother of Rob, the driven Rob himself who has much to prove to his family, the shy but confused Lena who is still trying to find her calling in life, her over protective father who still is not able to understand why she wants to run away from all the comfort and riches he can provide, the mother Lena has not seen in twelve years and other characters like Jeanne, Amanda, Mat etc. They all are people with a story to tell and Alix handles each character with an expertise that is noteworthy. She is able to bring out their emotions, their frustrations and gives the readers a new insight into human nature.

I was caught and then sucked in the story where it felt like everything was happening before my own eyes. Even though I have never been to Paris but still I could visualize myself sitting at the corner table at the bistro drinking coffee and watching the hustle-bustle of customers around. I could see myself before the Eiffel Tower getting a picture clicked and then just as effortlessly I was in Russia and could feel the bitter cold so in contrast with the pleasant weather in Paris and see a beauty so different from the cozy chaos of Paris.

Although, I appreciate the skill, planning and execution of the story but still there are some points that I felt needed more addressing. First is the whole espionage angle against Lena and her father. I would have loved to see this angle elaborated and addressed properly. I was definitely intrigued by this angle. Second is the whole proving-it-to-my-family angle for Rob. Nothing is told as to what happened to all the differences between him and his family. Were they resolved? Or did they still stand between them?

I loved the whole experience of watching Lena and Rob grow over a span of several years and felt completely invested in their struggles in overcoming all the misunderstandings, difficulties, fears and uncertainties to finally get a happily-ever-after.

Although Rob and Lena are the protagonists but still there are other happily-ever-afters also in this story that touch our heart and make us feel all giddy with love! Alix admirably handles a number of different people and fluidly connects them with each other to give us a touching and totally real like story.

A very engaging love story from a promising new author, What If It's Love? is a story of second chances in love and will appeal to everyone who has been or is in love!
4.5 out of 5 to What If It's Love? from me and a strong recommendation that you go read and enjoy this very entertaining book. Alix Nichols is an author to look out for and I hope to read more from her in the future.

I received the book from the author and I am very thankful to her. The above review is my honest and unbiased opinion and in no way influenced.

[Paulien · Rating 3 out of 5]

While reading the book...;

I think this seems kind of predictable, I hope I'm mistaken. Because I really like the girl in the book. But she seems kind of soft sometimes. She needs to grow a bit tougher. But then i read on in this book and she starts making these big mistakes, but mostly because he decides to make a few himself. I have this feeling, that nothing will ever go right in this book. And that's so sad... (I would give this book 3.3 star rating, at this moment.)


When I was finished with the book...;

Okay, let's all agree that we'll leave my thoughts (above) alone. They are what they are. Are they correct? I think so, yes. I had a lot of doubt with this book and I also have a lot of doubt with this review. But I'll expain why.

I liked the beginning, I really did. The only thing I found a bit confusing was that there were a lot of countries to remember, where did she study? Where did used to live? Where lives she now?
But apart from that I liked the light beginning! 3.5/5

With that I have to say that the writing style is different from the other books that I'm used to reading, but that doesn't mean that I didn't like it. Not at all, the chapters, though, they were a bit too long, each time. But I did the poem at the end of each one. That was a nice touch! 2.7/5)

The book went about a long period of time, but even though it seemed a long book, there was a long movement, I mean. How should I put it? I think that there happened a lot and not all of it mattered to the story, but it brought a nice background. And that; I did like. 3/5

The characters:
Lena: She annoyed me sometimes. She tried to run from the person she loves because he betrayed her (twice). I totally understand that. But then she marries a guy she has know for like a minute.. And the crazy thing is; she had her doubt from the beginning and that's crazy. In my opinion, if you doubt you should get engaged, NO don't do it. You're not ready or he's not the right guy. She's smart and I like a girl who isn't the financial or cognitive underdog! Well done!
Rob: He shouldn't give up so easily on her, she was worth more fighting. I think he didn't really deserve her. Even at the ending, when he and Amanda broke up, he still didn't fight for her. Oh, yeah he went to Moscow, for a easy lay? Or what? But he really knew what he wanted in life other than Lena.
Amanda: I didn't really like her, because she was so straight forward. And that's just... so discusting.
Dminic: He really appealed to me in the beginning, but then he seemed so stupid because of how they ended. I mean, if you're married; you wouldn't ask your wife if she's having an affair, although, not like he did.
Overall: pretty good, funny personalities who appealed to me. 4/5

Synopsis:
I liked the overall story, but I didn't love it. It was too predictable and a bit too stretched. I really thought there could've been more to the deceipt that Rob did. Maybe something more spectacular. I have to tell you guys, it's a contemporary romance novel but the romance didn't hit you in the face. 3.5

Then I should give some stars...
Here we go;
3.32/5 stars!

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Complimentary copy provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.

Lena is the daughter of a rich Russian oligarch. She is studying in Switzerland and about to finish her degree when she decides that she needs to make a change. After splitting with her boyfriend (if you can really call it that) she heads to Paris, looking to start a new life. She has studied the translation of Russian poet Marina Tsvetaeva, and her thesis has been an exploration of her own translations from Russian to French. She is interested in working in the field of translating texts, and hopes to make a fresh start in Paris, hopefully a little less under the thumb of her somewhat controlling father.

Rob is a waiter at La Bohème, a trendy Parisian café. He too is finishing up his studies, having trouble making ends meet, despite the amount of hours he puts in. So when a stranger approaches him about spying on Lena for information about her father, who has become a regular at the café, he sees it as an opportunity to get the money he needs in order to finish his degree. But when he begins to really get to know Lena, he calls off the agreement, but is it too late to salvage his relationship with Lena? Will she ever be able to trust him again?

I loved the relationship between Lena and Rob. What begins as a slow simmer quickly becomes molten between the two of them, but it’s not just in the bedroom that they sizzle. They just seem so perfect for each, knowing and understanding each other on a different level. The supporting characters, that are being set up for follow on novels, I’m sure, are also engaging and interesting, adding a fun group dynamic to the mix.

My only issue with the storyline is that I would have liked to see more of the espionage angle with Lena’s father. I don’t think that was explored particularly in depth, especially given the dream Rob had early on. I think I was expecting a little more intrigue in that department. Other than that, the storyline is quick paced and easy to become absorbed in with characters that were relatable, each with their own quirks.

What If It’s Love is a love story that spans the course of a couple of years, with ups and downs, heartbreaks and misunderstandings along the way. You couldn’t help but root for Lena and Rob as they try to make their way back to each other and find the true happiness they deserve. It is well written and Ms. Nichols obviously did an extensive amount of research, given the amount of knowledge she has of Marina Tsvetaeva and the mechanics of translation. It made the story all the more believable. I’m comfortable giving it 4 ½ stars and am definitely looking forward to the next installment of the series, Under My Skin.

[Ria · Rating 3 out of 5]

Out of Sight is Not Out of Mind

Hm let me start off by saying this is going to be a tricky one…This was a lovely read, well written and kept my interest throughout. Unfortunately something felt a little flat. It was told in the third person and the flow and pacing was good but connecting with the characters was a little bit difficult for me. Having said that the novel was smart, the characters were light and full of wit. What if it’s Love played out like a movie but it didn’t feel real.

Lena is a very independent astute woman but her character was a bit ironic for me. She loved poetry that to me should indicate a passionate person but she was meek and often ran from troublesome situations. I am happy to report that she seems to face her demons by the end and come to terms with the ugly parts of reality. Rob was handsome and driven but to me his character was missing a certain dimension. He was as intelligent as they come but he was withdrawn. Even his interactions with his family seemed cold. Together they awoke feelings neither knew existed. I could relate to the time they spent apart as being painful, but didn’t feel it. This is where it gets sticky…Though I thought the emotion was flat the story was intriguing and all and all I enjoyed the read.

Nichols descriptions and poetry placement were what made this book an all and all good read. Like I mentioned earlier, this plays out like a movie. The characters experiences in varying city’s made me picture the scene’s as though they were being projected onto an actual screen versus just playing out in my mind’s eye. There were a couple of instances where I would’ve liked to have seen a different outcome. Some of the characters story lines didn’t play out all the way and there were a couple of instances were side plots stopped without a conclusion. Lena and Rob play a game of cat and mouse throughout the story that was interesting but there were some times I wanted to shake these two.

I recommend this for people who are looking for a light read that is entertaining. The ending is an HEA and can be read as a stand alone but is part of a series. I could see these two making another appearance so I wouldn’t be surprised to find out there is more drama to come. This may not have been just right for me but it may be right up your alley. All I can say with certainty is, the sure fire way to know is for you to pick it up and give it a shot.

My Rating
3.0 Geneva, Thesis, Spy, IT, Vacation, Kiss, Amanda, Mat, Blue Hair, Father, Step Mother, Mother, Translations, Husband, Admission, Depression, Paris, Flat, Confessions, Love at Last filled stars. Pick this up for a lazy Sunday by the fireplace.

[Faye · Rating 5 out of 5]

What If It's Love is just my cup of tea. I find it a very emotional read and it also taught us a lesson about love and regrets.

Lena is the daughter of Anton Malakov, who is a rich Russian oligarch. Even living the high life, she doesn't act like it. A chance to get away from her father's lifestyle and be independent, she opted to finish her thesis in Paris. Rob, a Frenchman who works at cafe and understands Russian needed money in order to pay his tuition fee and a chance was given to him in order to pay his bills but the cost is that he must spy on Lena's conversation with her father since the guy who hired him is a business rival of Anton. From there, the story unfolds between Lena and Rob. And once Rob's secret is out what would happen between his and Lena's relationship?

I enjoyed Alix Nichols writing style and since it's written in a third pov, it's nice to understand what both characters are feeling. The development of the relationship between Lena and Rob wasn't slow but the attraction was immediately present. In this story, both characters made the wrong choices wherein it cost them their years to be together but at the same time they both realized that they still are in love with each other and better late than never right? I admit that I felt sad when both characters were a bit stubborn especially Lena. Although it was Rob's fault first (although he was forgiven for it) but the second time he screwed up I wanted to knock some sense into him. Because of that he forced Lena away and she ended up being with another guy. Space is good between couples who are in quarrel but too long may just be the reason why they ended up apart. In this instance, they are a good example. Then, when Lena finally realized what she truly felt about Rob so she wouldn't regret her decision regarding with the other guy, Rob was already with another person and she ended making a decision that eventually she regretted as well. So many dramas but it really fits the story. And all I was thinking about please have their HEA. Luckily, this has an HEA despite having a sequel. So anyway, it reinforced myself not to make decisions like that which I would end up regretting later. What's nice about this is that they finally got together.

Speaking of sequel, I so can't wait for that. The second characters were very likeable except a certain woman. If it wasn't for her, well let's just that Rob and Lena would have gotten together sooner but I should say the same for the guy Lena's been with.

I received a copy for a blog tour.

[Maggie · Rating 5 out of 5]

“What If It’s Love” is an engaging, emotional read. I love the characters and the book is set around the same café, Bistro La Boheme, as in one of Alix Nichols other books, a short story called “You’re the One”. I’m looking forward to the next books in this series. Lena is a the daughter of a Russian oligarch but it not what one might expect. She is not spoiled or flashy, she’s a normal girl and another character, Rob, even described her as “the girl next door”.

I love Alix Nichol’s writing style, she is witty and uses colloquial language when the young college students are talking; made me laugh a few times. She also doesn’t give you an elaborate soap opera love story; it’s realistic and has a fun twist to how Rob and Lena actually meet. It just makes for a more interesting read than a regular story about 2 people in love. Ms. Nichols also has a talent for immersing you into the story by vividly describing the neighborhood and characters. While you read you can see where the story takes place and play a little movie in your head while the characters interact. That’s always my favorite part about reading, I get to imagine everything how I want it based on the story I’m reading, it lets me take my time with the story and really enjoy it. The characters she creates are more complex as well, I feel like we get to see Lena’s personality and how she grew up and helps us realize why she does what she does and why she makes certain choices. You feel like you know her and you end up rooting for her. That also happened to me in Alix Nichols last book I read, the short story “You’re the One”, she has a real talent for the characters she creates and if you read this one too you’ll definitely see what I mean. When the character makes a certain decision I was aggravated at her choice because I wanted better for her, I felt like I knew her. I think Ms. Nichols will bring this unique aspect into every book she write and I look forward to the next books in the series. Happy reading!

[Rubina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lena is a rich Russian Heiress, an introvert, lonely and in need of a friend. She moves to Paris to mend a broken heart, in the pretext of finishing her thesis. Even though she is a Russian by birth, she had spent several years in Switzerland. Now she is in Paris hiding her wounds from the world.

But Life has other plans for her. Her father’s arch rival hires a Rob to spy on her. Rob is a bit reluctant about it, but the cash was handy. Since, it would not be harming anyone, he decided to take up the assignment.

Even though they had started on a wrong footing, he soon became her friend. They both found they had a lot of common ground to cover. Both of them working on their thesis proved to be a bonding factor between them. But Lena was totally unaware of Rob’s true intention. What would happen when she found out.. Makes a very interesting read.

What I liked

First of all the most attractive thing about this book is its cover. Very cute and tempting. One of those kind, which will make you pick up the book.

Secondly, the poems in the beginning of each chapter pertaining to the forthcoming emotions of the chapter.

Drop the ring, if empty of meaning
To begin, every time, from the end.
And to end before the beginning.

That was one of the best lines that resonated with me. So, could not help but quote it. The protag is a poetry lover and she relates her life with the verses written by her favorite poetess, Marina Tsvetaeva.

The author has beautifully grown the characters of her protags over a period of time. The whole novel is very quiet. Like Lena herself. No sudden moves and curve, but like a still water flowing and taking the reader through the streets of Paris. A road you would want to travel to learn about the love story of Rob and Lena.
http://rubinaramesh.blogspot.com/2014...

[Charlotte Lynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I started the book, I thought I knew where it would head. This did not turn me off from reading it, actually it motivated me to read it even sooner so that I could find out if I was correct. Happily, I can say I was wrong. I love when this happens. The way this book was written and the path it took was not quite what I expected. Each twist and turn made me smile or smirk and look forward to the next chapter. There were times when I knew I had to put the book down to accomplish something else and I just had to read one more chapter.

The setting of Paris and the lovely coffee house Lena frequents and Rob works at was a scene I could picture perfectly in my mind. I could see Lena working on her homework and studying, while Rob was filling her coffee or tea up trying to get her attention. Although Lena could be spoiled due to her upbringing, I am very happy that she is so down to earth and relatable. She had a good head on her shoulders and was able to keep perspective on her life and where she wanted to be.


This is the first book in the “Bistro La Boheme” series by Alix Nichols. I am positive that I will anxiously be awaiting the rest of the books. I enjoy when a series has recurring characters and settings but are good as a stand-alone also. I will recommend this book and most likely the series as they become available to anyone looking for a good romance book.

[Niki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lena a heiress from a rich Russian family wants to get away from her demanding father, she studies in Switzerland when she and her boyfriend are at a stop point, She breaks up with him and moves to Paris where she wants to work as translator. Lena drinks her coffee at a very cute little cafe called "Bistro La Bohème" She soon meets Rob a waiter/student. They become friends quickly a and end up together quickly, they are a cute couple but Rob has a secret, a dark secret that breaks them up when it comes out.

I have been in Paris a lot hen I still lived in Europe, it is one of my favorite cities, the way Alix wrote it I could see myself walking there again. I love the characters in the book, it is fast paced and well written, I only wished she had spend a little more time on the spy part. but that is a little side note, the boo as great.

[Dora Mills · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this book for more than one reason. When I first saw this book my first impression was “yes another romance book”, however I give lots of credit to Alix Nichols for a job well done on “What if It’s Love?”. The book is about two teenagers, Rob an intelligent young man who works at diner and is studying his final thesis for his Masters, and Lena, Russian born, but migrates to Paris in an attempt to escape her broken heart, eventually falling love after their relationship started off for the wrong reason, since Rob was hired to spy on her.
The way they met reminds me of how a few of my relationships started in the past. The story was engaging and I was able to follow it right through. This is not your ordinary romance novel; this book has imaginative plots and is an enjoyable read.

[Kyla · Rating 5 out of 5]

I find that I am falling in love with this series. Alix Nichols once again creates a wonderful story with believable characters, an intelligent story line and keeps any romance lover wanting more.

Lena and Rob's story is sweet, yet heartbreaking at times. Their lives have them meet by chance, but it all seems like destiny. The reader feels their heartbreak when their loves take them on separate paths, yet hopeful that they will be united once again. I personally loved the poetry at the beginning of each chapter. It added a personal touch and somehow made me understand Lena more.

I look forward to reading more from Alix Nichols.

[Becky Willis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lena moves to Paris to leave behind her ex-boyfriend and concentrate on writing her thesis. She is in the city she loves and isn’t really looking for love or romance. She really just enjoys reading and translating poems by Russian pet Marina Tsvetaeva.

Then Rob comes into the story and everything changes. Lena isn’t looking for love, so when Rob enters the picture, the story takes off.

Although the story took me a little while to get into, I am so glad I kept reading. It wasn’t long until I couldn’t put the book down. Alix Nichols has a way of making you feel like you are a part of the story. You want to root for Lena, and then root for Rob.

[Christina J. · Rating 4 out of 5]

(Spoiler free)

Lena is the daughter of Anton Malakhov, a rich ogligarch, but despite what most think she's anything but a typical spoiled rich kid. Lean moves to Paris hoping to forget her ex-boyfriend and write her thesis in the city of love. Her father is pressuring her to take over the family business, but Lena has no interest in what he does, she enjoys translating and reading poems by Russian pet Marina Tsvetaeva.
Lena spends most her days in Paris at the little café on her street La Bohéme. This is where she meets Rob. He's a waiter there and every day from the moment they met he stops by her table to make conversation. They develop a friendship, but they can't fight their attraction for long.
However they face problems when Rob's secret comes out.

When I first started the book I had to get into it at first, but it wasn't long before it caught my interest and then I couldn't stop. The writing was different from what I'm used to, but I ended up really liking it. The story moved along at a fast pace, I liked that there didn't always have to be much time wasted, or pages, on something that didn't matter much instead the book moved on to more important things while still keeping in touch with the chracters, knowing what went on in their lives no matter how much time passed.
The book really made me feel as if I was experiencing Paris with Lena and not just Paris, but also the other places the book took place like Moscow. The author made me feel as if I was actually these places, I could tell that she had done her research with everything. To me it feels as if La Bohéme is real.
Also, I know it's silly, but I guess for once it was nice to see a book take place in Europe where I can relate to the climate and all. Even more silly I got all giddy when one character apparently married one from Denmark (like me!) and she called him something like "scoot" as it says in the book. I kind of had to think a bit, but the word came to me. I had a lot of fun just with that little part, haha.
I thought I was in for a kind of typical romance story with boy meets girl, they fall in love and live happily ever after, but it turned out to be way more than that. I never could guess what would happen next, if I tried I was proved wrong. The book kept surprising me with its twists. The language and overall storyline were easy to follow and while I sometimes don't always enjoy the shfting point of views too much it worked well in here, although I would have preferred it to only be Lena and Rob's point of view as they were the main characters. Regardless of that the shift in perspective didn't happen too much and the focus was mostly Lena who were very relateable to me and good to follow. I also enjoyed getting glimpses into Rob's mind and see what he was thinking when he made the decisions he did.

Overall a well written romantic story that will surprise you at times, but you will never stop rooting for Lena and Rob.
This was my first Alix Nichols book, but it won't be my last!

[Laura · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tumultuous True Love!
Le Boheme is a neighborhood cafe with very loyal patrons. The serving staff becomes a sort of family themselves.
In the first novel of this wonderful series we get to know something about many different characters.
Even the snarky Amanda has her positive points.

The focus of this story is on Rob, a bistro server trying to afford his education, and Lena, a minigarch,
(while the meaning is evident, I wish the author would have defined it for us less worldly readers)
who is trying to be independent of her father, the oligarch. (Sure, that clears it up, right?)
Lena comes from money but wants to follow her own dreams.

To make a more contemporary (yet still dated) American reference, Le Boheme is like Central Perk in the tv series Friends. A gathering place to share the news and spend time in a comfortable atmosphere.
A safe spot in a busy and complicated city, Paris.

Everone has a past and everyone in their twenties has dreams for the future.
This includes romantic relationships as well as vocation and family situations.
In this respect, money really is not the deciding factor, but we all believe it has influence.
When Rob is approached with a very interesting and lucrative income proposition, he never sees how it could come back to harm him. All he has to do is befriend a beautiful girl and listen in on her phone conversations with daddy. They never say anything of great significance anyhow. Pass that information along to a business rival and receive enough money to get out of debt.

Lena is alone in a new city. She doesn't have any close friends because of her family.
That family situation is less than ideal but her father adores her.
HIS dream is for her to come back into the family business after graduation while Lena is in love with words.
She studies languages to be a translator with dreams of translating great literary works.
Finding a comfortable place to sit and study, along with good food and potential friends,
gives Lena hope for a friendlier future.
While the focus is on Rob and Lena, we also see glimpses into the personal lives of Jeanne, Mat, Pepe and Amanda.

No true love path is ever smooth but usually you don't find such enormous misunderstandings and obstacles to overcome. Being book one of a series, be prepared to want to read the next book.

Things I loved about the book - the writing. Quick paced, kept the story flowing at a great pace.
The characters - perfectly flawed. You care about each of them!
The settings - I really enjoyed experiencing different places and ways of life
and I wish there was a Le Boheme near me.
The story - I am so happy it will continue!

[Cynthia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this story not as much as I did the first one but it was a wonderful read. The way this book was written and the path it took was not quite what I expected. Which made this a book I was glad I had read. The author had me smiling and chuckling through all the twist and turns. The author paints a story that you can picture in your mind of a lovely coffee house in Paris as you read each scene.

These are two young people in college trying to get through it, one trying to pay his way why the other is given everything her hearts desires. You would think she would be a spoiled rich kid but she is not. She is a wonderful strong lady who is just getting by after leaving a boyfriend behind. She only wanted him to show he wanted her but he let her go to easy. Rob has a good heart but needs money, he is pulled in as he is given a way to get the money to pay for his schooling. It just so happens that it is to spy on Lena, to say this is going to compliant their lives it putting it mildly.

The author gives you a story that is a page turner as she pulls you in with her twists and turns to make it interesting. She gives you wonderful characters that are down to earth just taking one day at a time, trying to make a better life for their selves. Both of these characters are stubborn and have a lot to learn. Both make wrong choices which cost them dearly. They have much to learn before they can work out their issues.

This is the second book I have read by this author and it will not be the last. You really should pick up one of her books to get a new feel for an author that gives you a unique story with a wonderful plot.

[Morgan Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alix Nichols has written a gorgeous love story.
From the second you meet Lena and Rob, there's something about that that makes you want to get to know them. They feel genuine, have struggles, and are trying to survive. From her past as the child of wealth, to his secrets, you're not going to be able to put this book down. I'll be honest. I read it in one sitting. I planned on spreading it out, but i kept flipping through the pages, wanting to see if they'd end up together.
Spoiler alert!
I'm a sucker for a HEA, and this book won't disappoint you.
I love the poetry in the book, and as a fan, it only added to the reading enjoyment. What if It's Love had class, sweetness, and made me want to curl up with a cup of tea and let myself get immersed in La Boheme.
If this is any indication of the next two books by Alix Nichols, I'm going to be busy the next few days. I'm going to Paris.
Right now.

[Tracy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was gifted with this book for an honest review. It took me a few chapters to figure out who was who and to really get into the story, but once I did, I could not stop reading until it was finished. This is the story of Lena, the daughter of a Russian nouveau riche, who is a quiet, girl next door and how she comes to know Rob and the others at the cafe Bistro La Boheme. Rob began talking to Lena because a Russian businessman paid him to pass on information regarding Lena's father, Anton. He soon fell for Lena, but until he found a job, he needed the money paid to him for these harmless tidbits. The story follows Lena over the course of several years, from her time in Paris with Rob, to her return to Russia and all that follows. Truly a great read, where the main characters get the answer to the question, What if It's Love?

[Rachel Graham · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a really good read. It has some romance, some intrigue, a little bit of everything. I like that the book jumped right into the story and didn't bog you down with details and backstory.

I also loved that this was not the classic boy meets girl, they fall in love and live happily ever after. It easily could have gone that way but it didn't. There were twists and turns in the road along the way. And it made the story more rich.

And so much happens in this book! But the story doesn't feel rushed or incomplete at all. I really enjoyed reading this and I'm excited there's a series with the supporting characters from this book being the focus. Can't wait to read the next one!

[Sophia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful, warm and real! I couldn't stop reading

I got this book to read and give my feedback. I didn't know to expect. From the first poem of Marina Tsvetaeva till the last sentence this book was keeping me wondering what will happen next. I like the characters, setting in the cafe. The storyline is so real. How often we are afraid to say what we feel or find ourselves at the wrong time at the wrong place.
Without telling the storyline I can say that this book is a real treasure for the readers who appreciate reading good real live love story, being part of the events in the book.
I also should say about wonderful writing, style, wording, dynamic of the story, I am Alina's fan now and can't wait to read her other books.

[Viivika Tamm · Rating 2 out of 5]

Prantsusmaa - Reading Through Europe (10/50).

Ma ootasin siit raamatust midagi kerget ja prantsusehõngulist, kuid pidin pettuma.

Raamat oli tõsine, tegevustik kestis liiga kaua ning peategelased olid vahepeal suhetes teiste inimestega, mis minu jaoks on romantilises raamatus alati negatiivne asi. Eriti seekord, kuna Lena abiellub teise mehega ja kaalub tõsiselt oma abikaasa petmist.

Lugu oli kirjutatud nii isikupäratult, et see oleks võinud ükskõik kus toimuda. Vaatamata kõigile prantsusepärastele nimedele ja üles loetletud vaatamisväärsustele, ei tekkinud mul kordagi tunnet, nagu oleksin mitte-Ameerika riigist lugenud.

[Debbie Hughes · Rating 3 out of 5]

**I was asked to read this book for an honest review**
I jumped into this book and enjoyed the struggles the characters were experiencing. Fell in love with Rob and the fact that he could be a “real” guy. Rob and Lena together are awesome! Loved their story but became frustrated when the trouble began and then the book slowed down a bit. I always get frustrated with stories that take so long to get back to the excitement.

All and all I really enjoyed the story. Not to steamy, just young love with all its ups and downs….well worth the read.

[Sherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received this book in exchange for a honest review. This is the first book I've read by Alix and I enjoyed it so much. It's a sweet romance with engaging characters and realistic story line that captured me from the beginning all the way to the end. Lena and Rob's story is full of missed chances and you just want them together so much. I look forward to reading more books by this author and definitely recommend you read this one.

[Lauri · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a really sweet book set primarily in a bistro in Paris. The way in which the story was relayed felt fresh and fluid, even though it was a boy meets girl, boy disappoints girl, girl gets over her disappointment type of book. I often found myself smiling while reading, and by the end of the book I felt like I had just been on holiday in France!

[Peggy · Rating 5 out of 5]

~ARC FOR HONEST REVIEW~



This was a hard read to put down. Loved the romance of it, but loved how the story played out more! The characters will draw you in and make you feels as if you have known them a lifetime. This is really a great read from Alix Nichols!

[Kim Page]

A terrific love story with a few twists and turns! The characters were well developed and interesting enough to keep me wanting more! A very entertaining plot which kept me turning the pages. Very much looking forward to the next book!!

[Patricia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love a good bounce back romance. Keep them coming.

[Mathieu Mazza · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ma chronique 3,5/5 : http://enjoybooksaddict.blogspot.fr/2...

[Kristen Lewendon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm really torn by this one. The story pulled me in and held my interest the whole way through. I just wasn't able to emotionally connect with the characters the way I prefer. I suspect some of it has to do with the difference between their ages and mine - it's a pretty big gap. These earth-shattering revelations and life-altering situations in the day-to-day existence of a twenty year old are not such a big deal once you've already lived through them. A truth Lena and Rob will learn several times over through the book. I appreciate that there's no physical cheating in this book, but the deep emotional attachment Lena and Rob maintain left me feeling a little squicky. It held undertones of an emotional affair that I just wasn't comfortable with. It's written with a delicacy and aplomb that explains the situation in such a matter-of-fact way that I can completely understand and sympathize, but I'm at a point in my life that I just can't envision hurting myself like that anymore. Once again I think it was that age gap that kept me from fully investing in Rob and Lena. The larger-than-life characters that fill out the background of their story stole the show several times. I'm looking forward to reading those stories in the future.

[Anne Blyth · Rating 4 out of 5]

"I voluntarily read an advanced reader copy of this book"

I was surprised to find this book written differently to the others I've read recently, not in the first person. I actually prefer this way but that just my personal preference and doesn't mean the story is better or worse because of the style. This story certainly kept me wondering if the happy ever after was going to happen but it had an array of interesting characters helping the plot along. All in all, an enjoyable read and I look forward to more from Alix Nichols.

[BookLoverUpAllNight · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars. The title is perfect, What if it's Love? Rob and Lena just couldn't get their act together. Rob kept lying and losing Lena's trust. Lena wouldn't open her eyes and see how she really felt and kept running away. Was a mess all around with A in love B and B in love with C. This author keeps the drama and complexity of life. There may be a happy end, but after the main characters have dealt with their faults and life decisions.