Paris By The Book / Liam Callanan - 3***

[Book Concierge]

Paris By the Book – Liam Callanan
Digital audiobook read by Kim Bubbs
3***

From the book jacket: When eccentric novelist Robert Eady abruptly vanishes, he leaves behind his wife, Leah, their daughters, and, hidden in an unexpected place, plane tickets to Paris. Hoping to uncover clues – and her husband – Leah sets off for France with her girls. [There] she discovers an unfinished manuscript Robert had been writing without her knowledge … and that he had set it in Paris. Mother and daughters follow the path of the manuscript to a small, floundering English-language bookstore whose weary proprietor is eager to sell. Leah finds herself accepting the offer on the spot.

My reactions
I wanted to love this book. The author is from my home town, the beginning of the book is set in Milwaukee, and then the action moves to a city I love, Paris France. Plus, it’s a book about books. But …

I never really connected with these characters. I didn’t understand this great love between Robert and Leah. He was always given to these “disappearing” acts and it was clear to me (so why not to Leah?) that he had some significant mental and/or emotional health issues. Her continued grief and inability to move on just drove me crazy. On the other hand, I can only imagine how devastating this was for her, especially with two little girls who NEVER STOPPED looking for their Dad.

The twists and turns in the story gave me difficulty as well. It seemed all too convenient that they could suddenly get an extended visa, for example. I won’t mention other twists to avoid any spoilers.

Bottom line, it’s a splendid premise, has some great atmospheric scenes highlighting Paris, includes MANY book references, but didn’t live up to my expectations.

Kim Bubbs does a fine job narrating the audiobook. I could easily tell which character was speaking, and it moved at a satisfying pace.



My full review HERE

[Amy]

For some reason this has managed to stay on my TBR for a long time. Should it? I just love Paris. Do you think I’d like it?

[Book Concierge]

Hmmm .... I'm not sure Amy. I really didn't hold my attention very well. There are some interesting elements, however. Also, I listened to the audiobook, and because it didn't completely capture me ... well, there were times when I just didn't pay attention.

Paris is definitely a major element in the book, though. And the flavor of that marvelous city is evident.

So .. give it a try if you are so inclined. But don't necessarily put it at the top of your list.