15 April 2022

As you open this book you will be whipped away to the streets of Paris. If like me you have never visited the city, this book is a brilliant way to meet the locals, see beyond the tourist attraction and even get a peek at the local wine…. If you have a good imagination. I found myself lost in the pages of this book as Lucy Foley dragged me into a gripping tale that kept me glued to the pages. This is a wonderful book that provides an engrossing escape.

This was my second Lucy Foley book; I reviewed The Guest List in October last year. I find her writing intriguing as you are never totally sure what to expect. I enjoy how she moves around between characters allowing various voices to tell you the story. This book was a gripping read with a brilliant twist. The characters were a colourful cast and the scenery truly manages to transport you to the streets of Paris as you read. The author provides you with the opportunity to experience the city – even if you have never visited it.

Jess surprises her brother, Ben, with a call announcing that she is on her way to visit him in Paris. Jess needs to leave London in a hurry, but she does not share that with Ben.

Ben gives her his address and says he will be there waiting for her when she arrives: “.. just ring the buzzer.” Those were his last words to her. When Jess arrives late at night, she is amazed by the beautiful old building. But Ben is not there. After managing to break into his apartment, Jess finds his keys and his wallet, but Ben is nowhere to be found.

As Jess starts searching for her brother, she meets some of his neighbours. Everyone seems to know him, but no-one has any idea where he might be. Why is Ben not where he said he would be? Can Jess find him in time, or is she too late?

This book quickly had me intrigued. The stunning scenery and curious characters make this book a colourful read. I enjoyed the mystery and eagerly flipped pages in search of the truth. I enjoyed the French phrases – all of which the author provided translations for.

The characters in this book left me with a smile on my face. Ben, the ambitious journalist, is clearly eager for a big story, but has he bitten off more than he can chew? Jess seems to be a lost little girl even if she is in her late twenties. I enjoyed her determination in finding her brother. Even when she thought he left the apartment on purpose, she never gives up.

My favourite was the concierge. You never learn this woman’s name, yet she is always there, watching. I loved this character. Her story, as it is revealed adds a touch of sadness to this tale.

Lucy Foley has a unique writing style that you are either going to love or hate. I am on the loved side. I enjoy the mystery and the uncertainty she creates. This book was a brilliant read that I gave a five-star rating on GoodReads.com.

While Lucy Foley might not appeal to everyone, I would highly recommend this book if you are keen on something different, that is full of mystery and stunning scenery as well as a twist or two.