1/19/2026
The Paris Novel by Ruth Reichl
This charming little book follows Stella St. Vincent, self-proclaimed frugal recluse, who inherits an $80,000 trip to Paris after her estranged socialite mother’s death. Against her better judgement, Stella travels to France. While browsing in a bookstore, she becomes involved with a group of aspiring young writers and encounters a100-year-old mystery of a lost painting. On an impulse, she purchases a fabulous Dior gown in a vintage shop and goes to dinner at a high-end restaurant. There she meets Jules, an 80-year-old art collector, who takes a liking to her (and the dress) and becomes her mentor. He knows the story of the lost Manet painting and encourages her to solve the mystery. Her journey develops into a passion for the French “joie de vivre”.
Vivid descriptions of Parisian life, French culture and cuisine. Eccentric and engaging characters. A mystery to solve. The story becomes a testament to finding your passion and taking a chance in order to follow it. If you are a Francophile or a foodie, or just looking for a lighthearted escape, you’ll enjoy the Paris Novel. There’s even a little romance tossed in! I gave it to my daughters, daughter-in-law for Christmas.
THEBOOKREPORT The Paris Novel
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Posted: January 19, 2026 by J Flaugher
1/19/2026
The Paris Novel by Ruth Reichl
This charming little book follows Stella St. Vincent, self-proclaimed frugal recluse, who inherits an $80,000 trip to Paris after her estranged socialite mother’s death. Against her better judgement, Stella travels to France. While browsing in a bookstore, she becomes involved with a group of aspiring young writers and encounters a100-year-old mystery of a lost painting. On an impulse, she purchases a fabulous Dior gown in a vintage shop and goes to dinner at a high-end restaurant. There she meets Jules, an 80-year-old art collector, who takes a liking to her (and the dress) and becomes her mentor. He knows the story of the lost Manet painting and encourages her to solve the mystery. Her journey develops into a passion for the French “joie de vivre”.
Vivid descriptions of Parisian life, French culture and cuisine. Eccentric and engaging characters. A mystery to solve. The story becomes a testament to finding your passion and taking a chance in order to follow it. If you are a Francophile or a foodie, or just looking for a lighthearted escape, you’ll enjoy the Paris Novel. There’s even a little romance tossed in! I gave it to my daughters, daughter-in-law for Christmas.
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