A Taste of Paris: Review of Ruth Reichl’s The Paris Novel @PRHAudio

“The Paris Novel” takes readers on a sensory-rich journey of self-discovery through the culinary delights of Paris.

Summary:

Stella’s life changes when her estranged mother dies, leaving her a plane ticket to Paris and a note reading “Go to Paris.” Despite her fear of adventure due to childhood trauma, she honors her mother’s last wishes. In Paris, Stella remains cautious until a vintage store encounter leads her to impulsively buy a Dior dress. This purchase marks the start of her transformation. She visits iconic spots like Les Deux Magots, tries oysters for the first time, and meets Jules, an octogenarian art collector who introduces her to Paris’s 1980s literary, art, and culinary scenes. As weeks pass, Stella lives at Shakespeare & Company, uncovers a mystery in a Manet painting, and discovers a passion for food, ultimately learning to live a larger, more delicious life.

My Thoughts:

In “The Paris Novel,” Ruth Reichl takes us on a culinary and emotional adventure through the eyes of Stella, a woman forced out of her comfort zone after her estranged mother’s death. When Stella receives a one-way ticket to Paris and a note from her mother urging her to go, she reluctantly sets off on a journey that changes her life in unexpected ways.

Reichl’s background in writing about gourmet food shines through in this novel. The vivid descriptions of food, particularly the experience of dining in Paris, are a feast for the senses and left me yearning to travel and savor these culinary delights myself. The author’s ability to paint such a sensory-rich picture adds depth to Stella’s journey and makes the reader feel like they are right there with her, tasting oysters for the first time at Les Deux Magots or enjoying a decadent meal.

Stella’s physical and emotional journey to Paris is compelling. Her strained relationship with her mother adds layers to her adventure, making her mother’s last wish feel like a final nudge to break free from her routines. The impulsive purchase of a Dior dress marks a turning point in Stella’s life, leading her to embrace spontaneity and new experiences.

While I enjoy stories of personal growth and relationships, I found the pacing of this novel uneven. It captivated me initially, particularly when Stella first arrives in Paris and starts exploring. However, the middle section of the book dragged for me, and I struggled to stay engaged. Thankfully, the latter third of the book picked up the pace and rekindled my interest.

The Narration:

I listened to the audiobook version narrated by Kiiri Sandy, who did a commendable job of bringing the characters to life with distinct voices for both male and female characters. Her lovely pronunciation of the French language and soothing tone added an extra layer of enjoyment to the listening experience. I would definitely recommend the audiobook version to those who enjoy immersive narration.

Final Thoughts:

“The Paris Novel” is a good read for those who appreciate vivid food descriptions and a story of personal transformation. Despite some slow sections, the novel ultimately delivers a heartfelt message about living deliciously, taking chances, and finding one’s true home.

A Similar Book I’ve Reviewed:

Taste: My Life Through Food by Stanley Tucci