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Paris is Always a Good Idea: A Novel by Nicolas Barreau

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Paris Is Always a Good Idea: A Novel

by Nicolas Barreau

4.3 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	884 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	306 pages

Nicolas Barreau's novel, Paris is Always a Good Idea, is a charming and romantic story about a young woman who serendipitously falls in love with Paris and its residents. The novel follows the protagonist, Aurelia, as she navigates the complexities of love, loss, and self-discovery in the City of Lights.

Plot Summary

The novel begins with Aurelia, a successful architect from San Francisco, arriving in Paris for a business trip. While exploring the city, she stumbles upon a small bookstore and is immediately drawn to a vintage postcard featuring a black-and-white photograph of a handsome stranger. Intrigued, Aurelia buys the postcard and carries it with her throughout her trip.

As Aurelia explores Paris, she begins to notice the stranger from the postcard appearing in various places around the city. She sees him at a café, in a museum, and even on a bridge overlooking the Seine River. Aurelia becomes increasingly curious about the stranger and sets out to find him.

Aurelia's search for the stranger leads her on a journey of self-discovery. She meets a cast of quirky and lovable characters, including a wise old bookseller, a bohemian artist, and a charming French chef. Through these encounters, Aurelia learns about the importance of following her dreams, embracing the unexpected, and living life to the fullest.

Themes

Paris is Always a Good Idea explores a variety of themes, including:

The power of serendipity: The novel highlights the importance of embracing the unexpected and allowing for serendipitous moments to happen. Aurelia's chance encounter with the postcard leads to a series of events that change her life in profound ways.
The magic of Paris: The novel captures the enchanting and romantic essence of Paris. Barreau vividly describes the city's charming streets, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture. Paris is portrayed as a character in itself, with its own unique personality and allure.
The importance of human connection: Aurelia's journey is marked by meaningful relationships she forms with the people she meets in Paris. These connections provide her with support, inspiration, and a sense of belonging.
The pursuit of dreams: Aurelia's journey in Paris helps her to realize her true passions and aspirations. She learns the importance of following her dreams, no matter how unconventional they may seem.

Characters

The novel features a cast of well-developed and memorable characters. The protagonist, Aurelia, is a relatable and sympathetic character. She is intelligent, independent, and has a thirst for adventure. Aurelia's journey is one of self-discovery and growth.

The other characters in the novel are equally charming and endearing. The wise old bookseller, the bohemian artist, and the charming French chef all play important roles in Aurelia's journey. They provide her with guidance, inspiration, and support.

Writing Style

Nicolas Barreau's writing style is lyrical and evocative. He has a gift for capturing the beauty and magic of Paris in his words. The novel is written in a first-person narrative, which allows readers to experience Aurelia's journey intimately. Barreau's writing is full of humor, wit, and warmth.

Paris is Always a Good Idea is a delightful and heartwarming novel that will appeal to readers of all ages. It is a story about love, loss, self-discovery, and the transformative power of serendipitous moments. Nicolas Barreau's enchanting writing style and memorable characters will transport readers to the City of Lights and leave them with a lasting sense of joy and inspiration.

Additional Information

Paris is Always a Good Idea was first published in German in 2007. It was translated into English in 2009 and has since become an international bestseller. The novel has been adapted into a film, which was released in 2016.

Nicolas Barreau is a French author who has written over 20 novels. His books have been translated into more than 30 languages and have sold over 5 million copies worldwide. Barreau is known for his heartwarming and romantic writing style.

If you are looking for a charming and romantic read, I highly recommend Paris is Always a Good Idea. It is a story that will stay with you long after you finish reading it.

Paris Is Always a Good Idea: A Novel

by Nicolas Barreau

4.3 out of 5