The Paris Novel by Ruth Reichl
If you are a foodie and a Francophile, this novel will make you swoon! There is no one better at mouthwatering food writing than Reichl, author of several culinary memoirs, former editor-in-chief of Gourmet magazine, and past food critic for The New York Times. She knows Paris well and throughout the narrative, she credibly drops the names of real restaurants and famous chefs.
The plot of The Paris Novel is set in motion by an unusual inheritance, a one-way plane ticket to Paris. Our heroine, Stella, being the unadventurous sort is not as thrilled with this legacy as perhaps another young woman might be. After much internal debate, Stella travels to Paris.
Initially she lives reclusively, but after buying a Dior gown at an unusual vintage clothing shop, her life takes an adventurous turn. Immediately, she meets a wealthy older man who introduces her to fine food, vintage wines, art, and literature. (The gentleman also has a cute single son, quelle surprise!) Stella also befriends the owner of the famous bookstore Shakespeare and Company, solves an art world mystery, and connects with previous unknown family members.
Paris landmarks and glorious meals aside, the novel is full of cliché and improbable coincidences. But if you want to immerse yourself in a French fantasy with a bite (pun intended), The Paris Novel is entirely satisfactory.