Alone in the City of Love on Valentine's Day–until my best friend makes a a Parisian affair. But is one day worth risking our friendship?
When my ex ditches me after yet another failed attempt to rekindle our relationship, I don't hesitate when my best friend Ollie tells me to meet him in Paris.
But when he takes me out for Valentine's Day, all of our boundaries shatter. He fills me with chocolate and champagne and whispers naughty things in my ear that tell me that night we spent together three months ago has been running through his head on repeat, too.
And our inability to keep our hands off each other has me wondering if there's something more here.
But when Ollie isn't vacationing, he's a workaholic. He's emotionally unavailable and "can't be the person I want him to be."
But I still turn to mush every time he calls me Wildflower. Every time I see the drawings he did of me in Paris that prove he sees me.
And I start to think Ollie might be the big love I've been searching for.
I had a really hard time with this book. The characters were fine. The idea for the story was good. I didn't love the way the story unfolded or the interactions between the main characters. The back and forth just seemed kinda pointless. There are no real reasons for you not to be together, so why are we drawing this out?
I also didn't love a few of the comments that were made about having ADHD. "I have to accept that I'll never be smart like my dad" "sorry I must be so annoying my meds are wearing off". gave me the ick. Having ADHD shouldn't be treated like a death sentence or like you're less of a person for having it.
4.5/5 ~ I run my fingers along the side of the page. "You made me so pretty." He shrugs. "I just drew what I saw."~
This was such a cute read! I loved the ADHD representation and how well it was explained in this book! It genuinely helped me relate so much more to the characters. I will say usually I am an enemies to lovers girlie but this friends to lovers trope was so warm and cozy and just perfect for this book. This book has made me want to go to Costa Rica and Paris! This book made it seem like such a fun vacation idea to those places! The chemistry between Stephanie and Oliver was so good and they both are so cute together. I loved seeing their feelings grow throughout the book for each other and seeing how much they care about each other. This was a super cute fluffy book and I would highly recommend it!
Book 3 of the Love and City Lights series, this is my first introduction to the author. We are introduced to Stephanie, a woman on a mission. She's headed to Costa Rica to take a chance on her recent on again, off again romance. No spoiler here- this does not work out (otherwise this would be titled "What Happens in Costa Rica, right?) In order to heal her wounded heart she heads to Paris with her best Ollie. They are besties back home, but one impromptu spicy night has them both wondering, "Would a week long Parisian love affair be a bad idea?" After all, it IS the city of L-O-V-E. These two have very realistic, witty banter and HOT chemistry. They also share the diagnosis of ADHD, which causes some of their predicaments and plot lines. Over all this was a solid, fun little rom-com and I recommend for a perfect beach read..... or the book to pack on your flight to Paris.
I Received a free copy of this E-book ARC from the author in exchange for my honest opinion.
First, thank you to Ally Williams for giving me an ARC of this book! This is my 2nd time receiving an ARC so please be nice to my review (thanks). Also, this is my first introduction to Ally Williams’ book and let’s say it was a great experience! So let’s move onto the review (minor spoilers).
This book follows the friendship-situationship between Stephanie and Oliver as they navigate how to find love while learning how to cope with ADHD. Stephanie loves with her whole heart and willing to forgive easily, while Oliver is on a “set” path to getting a promotion. After an unforgettable one-night stand on Stephanie’s birthday a few years ago, they decided to not discuss the change in their relationship and continue to grow closer as friends. Stephanie decides to she wants to give Rod, a guy she has had an on-and-off relationship with for the past few years, another chance and flies to Costa Rica to see if he is her person. As she arrives in Costa Rica, she is forced to chase Rod as he travels through Costa Rica with his friends. Ultimately, she decides that she will no longer chase Rod and find time for herself. During all this, Oliver is on a work trip in Paris and suggests that Stephanie comes to Paris. As they stay in Paris, Stephanie and Oliver decide to have a temporary relationship and explore their attraction and chemistry. As their trip comes to an end, Oliver makes it clear that he cannot be Stephanie’s person but as they head back home, lines become more blurred as Stephanie is confused by the mixed signals that Oliver is sending.
Personal Thoughts I enjoyed the book and it was a quick read with a fast moving plot! I loved that Ally Williams has incorporated mental health but I felt as if it could have been explored more. Yes, we do see both characters coping with ADHD in their unique ways but I felt like there was a lot more that could’ve been talked about. Also, I felt like there were some phrases and words that were awkward and not used in daily speech (sorry, I wasn’t a fan of big love). Aside from that, I loved how supportive Oliver was when helping Stephanie understand that she is perfect the way she is! Also, the cover of the book and the scene in the book!! OMG. I screamed when I realized what it was (hopefully I am correct)! I think the spice was written well. That date was so cute and got spicy real quick! And then the chocolate and pastry trip in Paris, I was on edge when I thought Stephanie was going to be alone! One thing I caught myself doing was getting anxious (that’s most definitely not the right word lmao) when Stephanie was heartbroken over Oliver! Another favorite moment was Oliver drawing Stephanie and making her his muse! Ugh, I loved it so much! Also, if I see Rod, it’s on sight! I’m going to fight this man (lol). Overall, it was a great read! I’ll make sure to check out Ally Williams’ other books!
Once again, thank you so much for sending me an ARC!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
⭐️2.5⭐️ First I’d like to thank the author, Ally Williams, for sending me an ARC to read! Safe to say I was thrilled because I had this book on my TBR and was looking forward to reading it.
I have to say that I was a little disappointed. My main dislikes are how absolutely nothing makes sense and it feels as though many things were an afterthought while forgetting what happened previously to corroborate the storyline.
So, Steph is heading to Costa Rica to basically profess her love for a POS who strung her along for t e n y e a r s. Cool beans already a weird start. Meanwhile her male bestie is heading on a work trip to Paris. I could go on and on about how I feel about Rod & Steph’s relationship, but I’ll stay with it was so pointless and silly it had wondering how this was her “big love”
Second, for about 85% of the book, Oliver acts and treats Stephanie almost identically to Rod. Also don’t get me started on how Rod couldn’t even make time for Stephanie when they were sleeping in the same room in the same country but once she calls it quits and spends a week in Paris he offers to fly to see her then comes back to the US to visit her. Absolute plot line nightmare that never should have been a thing (unless you had written his character better).
Incidentally Oliver & Stephanie had no chemistry. They had pretty good sexual chemistry and the spice was 🙌🏻 but other than that I felt no emotional connection. Hm…. Could it be because he tells her, again 85% of the way through the book, that he isn’t her big love and that he can’t be. what. she. needs. Ok…. So in the last 15 % (1 week) he suddenly realizes he’s everything she needs and they are “destined for one another”
????????????
Also can literally anyone explain to me how they’re using the “he falls first” trope? B**** WHERE LMAO. Literally she pines over him for the entire book then he finally realizes he has “loved her all along” literally where you didn’t even have that good of a friendship from what it seems.
I’m sorry just so much didn’t make sense or didn’t add up. I also prefer the “he falls first” trope to be where he actually falls first and fights for her… he grabs her flowers from the store like wow thank u after treating me like third best to your job and life let me just be with you immediately no hesitation!
I can see where the author was coming from and I enjoyed her writing style but this book just wasn’t for me. I truly and sincerely hope it’s for you and that you can fall in love with the characters! 🫶🏻
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Also I haven’t read the first two installments of this series so take that as you will.
Absolutely loved this! This is probably one of the most enjoyable romance stories I’ve read.
♥️ I really liked the pacing and even though at the beginning we weren’t even in Paris it felt like a necessary build up. (Even if I was pissed that our MFC was chasing after ROD of all people). The ending dragged by just a hair but it was fine.
♥️The banter?!? LOVED IT. I’d find myself giggling quite a bit. Felt pretty natural.
Meh parts of the story?
- some things were just repeated ONE TOO MANY TIMES 1. Steph wanting a “big love” 2. Her loving too easily 3. Her spending ten years on bullshit 4. Ollie caring so much about work 5. Lastly, The word “begrudgingly” - love you Ollie and Steph but you could’ve figured your shit out sooner - HEAR ME OUT HERE: Steph talked about her hair being so crazy to tame but the cover does not match. Like the hair texture I’m seeing is not giving what she’s saying. I found myself wishing she had actually curly hair. And ofc then that led me to wish she was POC but that’s another conversation.
But overall I liked this story. Really felt like I was having fun watching them flirt and grow together! I can’t wait to read more from Ally!
I just finished the book and I LOVED IT!!!! I received this book as an advanced reader's copy. I am voluntarily leaving my review. ALLY WILLIAMS has a new fan in me and I cannot wait to get my hands on the first two books in her Love and City Lights series because this third book, What Happens In Paris, was so entertaining and spicy! I loved the banter between the FMC, Stephanie, and the MMC, Ollie. Best friendship turned Parisian affair turned to... the suspense was intense and their scruples were very realistic and relatable. The slow burn kept me on my toes and the pace of the book was perfect and I couldn't put it down.
Miss Williams, if you ever need another ARC reader, I'll happily be your girl! ;-) Thank you for sharing your story with me!
5 Stars in my Contemporary Romance category 4 Hot Chili Peppers for spice Couldn't put it down Absolutely will need a shelf trophy Would read again
I received this book as an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I love Steph and Ollie. It was fun to “watch” these two skate around each other, they have the cutest friendship and I’m so happy about the ending. At first I was a little worried, Ollie really struggled with the idea of a relationship. It was sweet to see as his character developed and how he works through his worries. I also love that both characters were very self aware and, for the most part, were honest with each other through the entire story. Thank you Ally Williams for the ARC!
Spicy level: 5/5 spice level I received an ARC copy of this novel and I have chosen to leave a voluntary review. What happens in Paris is a beautiful love story that incorporates characters with depth and flaws who feel like someone you would be friends with, run into on the street, or work with. Steph and Ollie are two the idealized version of a modern romance without being “too perfect” as characters. I really enjoyed the incorporation of ADD/ADHD, nuerodivergent, lgbtqia, and overall good human support and interactions. This is definitely geared for the later stages of young adult and could even be considered a late YA form of coming of age novel. This novel is not all romance, or all spice. This is a great story about love and overcoming challenges one can face when making difficult adult life choices, what ultimately matters to preserving yourself and having the choice of adding a partner to that. (However, I love love, so I am always happy to find a new great romance book. The story has a complex story line that isn’t too predictable for a large majority, but not so complex that you need to create charts for character depth and lore.
Spice level/ minor spoilers for general plot line: The love story rises and falls like any novel will. There is spice almost immediately but becomes heavily involved around halfway through the novel
What Happens in Paris is the third installment in Ally Williams’ Love and City Lights series, and it’s a gem that can definitely be enjoyed as a standalone. The story offers a perfect blend of humor, romance, and spice, making it impossible not to fall for the main characters, Steph and Ollie. Their journey from close friends to something more unfolds beautifully against the romantic backdrop of Paris. The Dual POV allows readers to intimately experience their growing connection and the push-and-pull of their emotions.
Steph is a character who wears her heart on her sleeve, loving fiercely and without reservation, while Ollie, in his effort to protect her, sometimes forgets to guard his own heart. Their dynamic is touching and relatable, especially with the strong mental health representation, which adds depth to their struggles and personal growth. Each character’s unique approach to maintaining their mental well-being is portrayed with sensitivity and realism, showing that what works for one might not work for another.
This slow-burn romance keeps you on the edge of your seat, eagerly turning pages to see how their story unfolds. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to devour it in one sitting, yet savor every moment. Ally Williams has crafted a compelling love story that’s both heartwarming and steamy, and I’m definitely adding her to my list of favorite authors. Now I’m eager to go back and read the first two books in the series!
Thank you so much to Bookfunnel and, of course, Ally Williams for the advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review!
What Happens in Paris is a delightful concept with plenty of elements that I enjoyed, from the whimsical travel adventures to the mermaid hair and matching tattoos. The representation of ADHD and mental health issues, alongside the realistic portrayal of balancing work and home life, added depth to the story. Family dinners and the way the characters navigated their lives also grounded the book in a relatable way.
However, I found myself struggling with the ongoing miscommunication trope that dominated much of the story. The tension created by the lack of open conversation between the characters felt a bit drawn out. I kept hoping they would just talk to each other and connect on a deeper level.
The FMC's lack of confidence was another challenge for me. Traveling halfway across the world in hopes of rekindling a relationship with her ex, only to stay and wait for signs of affection, felt disheartening. Her spontaneous trip to Paris to stay with a friend she had a brief connection with, followed by an awkward living arrangement, added layers of complexity but also frustration.
That said, the ending was cute and tied things up in a satisfying way. If you enjoy stories of second chances, personal growth, and real-life challenges, this book might resonate with you. Despite the hurdles along the way, What Happens in Paris offers a charming escape with heartwarming moments.
If I had to pick one comfort trope, something I go back to whenever I need to achieve warm and fuzzy status…it would be Friends to Lovers. What Happens in Paris delivers on that trope telling the story of Steph and Ollie. After realizing her ten year on again/off again situationship isn’t working for her, Stephanie makes the impulsive decision to meet her friend Ollie for his Parisian solo vacation. These two already shared a no strings night months earlier so it’s no surprise the mutual lust building in Paris leads to a convenient arrangement…indulge in the fantasy of being lovers for just one, perfect week. Can they go back to being friends once they return to the real world? Spoiler alert….nope, and I love that for them. We hit some great tropes here. Forced proximity, fake dating, only one bed, friends to lovers. It’s a fun ride with some good spice throughout. A bit redundant in parts and occasionally the banter fell flat for me, but overall an enjoyable rom com. If you are looking for a fun contemporary romance read, give this a try! The characters were likable, the conclusion was satisfying and the spice was on point.
Solid 3.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2 Great story! The writing was easy to follow as was the character development. Definitely a slow burn spicy novel🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Chapters💞 45 and 46 got my feels up! I felt this was a fun, lighthearted read. For the life of me, I couldn’t figure out why the hell Steph would stick around 10 years with that joker. That part was annoying. Steph is struggling so hard working through the reasons why she continues to accept a relationship that doesn’t benefit her. Ten year’s worth actually. So why does she continue to hold so tightly to that relationship? She sees the red flags. Steph sees them, waving in the wind yet she chose to ignore them. Enter Oliver. He helps her to face it head on. Come to Paris he says. And away we go! Friendship between Oliver and Stephanie is blossoming into a destined romance. They begin to notice the small things that they do for each other. The way they look at each other or gestures they concern. Oliver is so passive aggressive. It’s annoying. Both have ADHD and discuss their managing it. They are supporting each other’s career paths. Very respectable. Very mindful.
3.5 🌟 I love a book where he falls first and I always love a dual POV. This makes me want to travel to France and experience the city of love. Makes me so happy when I read about characters practicing mindfulness and any mental health representation, I'm in! Thanks Ally for the arc!!
2.5 ⭐️Thanks to Ally for providing me with an ARC, I am voluntarily leaving this review.
A trigger warning is needed since this book addresses ADHD, which is a sensitive topic for many. The way ADHD was addressed in the book seemed a little tone deaf for my taste. I enjoyed the spicy scenes, although some of the language used gave me the ick. For example the use of “we both know you can take a dick” just sounds raunchy imo.
The whole book felt like it was small talk and there so much unnecessary back and forth between the characters. The way the book tied up was cute but overall I felt like the story really lacked depth.
You might like this book if you want an easy, light romance with a situationship, friends to lovers trope.
First off, thank you to Ally Williams for sending me an ARC of this book. I read it as a standalone and I don't feel like it took away anything from the story. The book had its ups and downs, and times when I thought she was a complete idiot, but what female hasn't made dumb decisions when it comes to boys. I really didn't like how desperate she was for the first dude, or at times, how she seemed desperate for Ollie, BUT, the story was good and the events that happens and the obstacles that were there were real and relatable. The book is good and has a feel good vibe throughout it. Once they get back from Paris, its a little rocky at first but the story gets good after that, when they're back in the real world and have to face their feelings. The author does a good job making the scenario's real. Id recommend the book to others for a cute quick read.
This book captured my attention right from the start. I've never read any of Ally Williams's books before, but I really enjoyed her writing style, and the fact that it was written dual point of view was a bonus. I love getting to hear the story from both main character's point of view. I was invested in Stephanie and Oliver's story, because even though she was originally off to find her big love with another man, it was so obvious that the two of them had feelings for each other (even though neither would admit it.) The Paris setting was also so much fun. I've never been but Ally painted such a wonderful picture of the city, and how appropriate that it's the city of love. I did get a little frustrated with the characters at times because they had quite a lot of miscommunication/refusing to actually speak to each other about how they felt. But it was in keeping with their personalities. Another thing I loved was the ADHD representation, I haven't seen that in many books. Lastly, the spice. This was a VERY steamy book, but it was written tastefully, and it didn't detract from the story. If you're someone who is all about the spicy books, you will love it. All in all, I enjoyed this book and was happy for the opportunity to review it. Thank you Ally Williams for the ARC copy!
One of the best friends to lovers book I’ve read. Steph and Ollie have great chemistry. She looking for her Big Love after years of an on and off again relationship. He wants to make sure she happy and doesn’t get hurt. Ollie doesn’t think he can love her the way Steph deserves to be love but his actions suggest otherwise.
I received this as an ARC (my first) and truly enjoyed reading it.
This book was such an easy read, but compared to the first two books, it kind of felt like nothing really happened… but don’t get me wrong, I LOVED reading this book.
What wasn’t there in storyline was DEFINITELY made up for in the spice. Like, a large amount of the book was very spicy, so if you’re into that (like me) READ THIS.
Overall, it was a good, easy read that I would reread on any vacation.
This book was a struggle for me to get through. But that struggle has nothing to do with the way the book was written and everything to do with my personal experiences. There are parts of this story that hit really close to home and made it hard for me to get through the material.
Oliver and Stephanie are close friends and are part of a great, supportive friends circle. One fateful evening, Ollie and Steph hook up for her birthday. This evening is a catalyst for a months long push and pull for these two.
Steph decides to become a “virtual nomad” to work from wherever and heads to Costa Rica to meet with Rod, her on again/off again boyfriend of 10 years – yes, 10 years!! She was going to try a relationship with Rod and meet him where he was. Steph was ready to find her “big love”. I can definitely relate to changing my life to chase what I thought was my big love.
In a turn of events, Steph is left alone in Costa Rica when Ollie invites her to join him in Paris because he is there for work. Ollie cannot stop thinking about that one night with Steph but he also knows he cannot be what Steph wants – her big love.
Their adventures around Paris were so sweet and thoughtful. Their time in their hotel room in Paris becomes very spicy, frenzied, sweet, and playful. Ollie begins to draw Steph in his sketch pad and decides to show her what he is drawing. Steph feels like she looks prettier each time Ollie draws her. As their time together begins to come to an end, both of them know they need to address what was next for them. One of the last drawings Ollie does, he draws himself in the scene with Steph.
As they are leaving Paris, Steph asks Ollie – “In another life, could it have been us?” Ollie answers “In any other . . .” – I was screaming to him – HOW CAN YOU LET HER GO!! There was so much push and pull with these two – I am not sure I would have been as patient with Ollie as Stephanie was.
Another area that I felt representation was the diagnosis of ADHD as an adult. I too was diagnosed as an adult. It was great to see Ollie and Steph support each other in the different ways each of them handle their ADHD and what worked for them.
Favorite line from the book is from Ollie – “I love her differently than I’ve ever loved anyone before.”
Since this is a new author for me, I look forward to reading more of Ally’s books.
E-book provided as an ARC by author Ally Williams.
I recieved this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Going into this book, I did not know what to expect. I am not familiar with the authors writing and story telling. However, I can say, after finishing this book, I am very well impressed. It was an easy to read, slow burn novel! There weren’t in gaps in the book and the story line was perfectly told.
Without spoilers: The story of Ollie and Steph is a story all readers look for in their romance genre. From being friends who were not into one another, besides the time at the birthday party, to then becoming lovers. Steph went through much heartache trying to find and understand herself in Costa Rica with Rod. Rod was the typical man whose friends will always come before a girl. However, Ollie, is the definition of a man whose business focused that isn’t sure how to love.
The story continues as Ollie and Steph are learning to love one another without fully admitting what their relationship is. Paris was suppose to be a “what happens in Paris, stays in Paris” but that couldn’t be farther from the truth. Paris was just the start of this “relationship”. After fighting with his brain and heart that maybe a promotion isn’t all he needs in life, he starts to understand being loved is better and stronger than a promotion ever could be. Their romance is the perfect slow burn that gives us readers the best happy ending there could be.
I highly recommend this book for those branching into romance! I could not put the book away! Every chapter brings you to want to read more to know what happens between the two “friends”.
Favorite Quotes: “If there’s one thing I’ve learned in all of my therapy over the past three months, it’s that everyone needs to get where they’re going in their own time, in their own way”.
“You give away little pieces of yourself, and as much as you want to believe it never affects the whole, sometimes it does. Buts it’s worth it in the end, even if the middle sucks sometimes.”
“I think I forgot that life is about more than striving for that next big thing. I think I forgot to stop and smell the roses.”
I was so excited to receive the ARC copy for this book, I couldn't download it faster! I loved Stephanie and Ollie's relationship from the beginning. They were truly friends and were tying to navigate life after hooking up. Stephanie is looking for her person amd Ollie is focused on getting promoted at work and doesn't have time for a relationship. It seemed like a recipe for disaster. I liked the portrayal of ADHD and how it can be diagnosed later in life for women. It felt all too real. I also enjoyed the how at ease with each other the two were. Both characters had personal growth that I can see happening in many relationships. I also adored Bung, Ollie's cat, and his obvious love for his human and human companion.
Overall, this book was a nice read. It's much longer than I was expecting but definitely worth the time to sit down and really absorb. The characters and situations are relatable. I mean who wouldn't want to go on a trip for love? I would 100% recommend this book to a friend and thoroughly enjoyed my time reading it!
Thank you so much to Ally for giving me a free ARC in exchange for an honest review. I am so happy to have been able to do ARCs for all of her books and see her work progress through each characters.
I love a good friends to lovers trope, and I especially love Ollie and Steph. From the moment I picked up the book and started reading, I knew it was going to be hard to put it down when I had to stop for the day. This romance and story was very sweet and is a nice fluffy romance with some minor smut scenes that is perfect for a quick read or to get you out of a reading slump.
The only personal preference I have is how Ollie went about his relationship with Steph and kept sending so many mixed signals with minimal explanation. If that happened to me it would change my view of the person a lot, so I wish there was some more understanding between them as to why there were so many mixed signals.
Tropes- 🗼Friends to Lovers 🗼One Bed 🗼ADHD Rep 🗼Banter 🗼Vacation Romance 🗼Dual POV
"You made me so pretty." He shrugs. "I just drew what I saw."
"This whole time I've been searching for my big love. I give big love and I want someone who looks at me and wants to give me big love too."
✨️ This was such a cute rom-com. I felt that the characters were relatable, especially Stephanie. She just wanted someone to love and for them to love her with their whole heart in return. 🥹😍 If you enjoy a good friends to lovers with fun banter, give this a read 🫶
"I think you're my true north" ~ What happens in Paris by Ally Williams.
Ally Williams’ "What Happens in Paris" is an evocative and beautifully written romance that transports readers to the heart of Paris, where love and self-discovery intertwine against the backdrop of the City of Love. Williams crafts a story that not only enchants with its Parisian charm but also resonates deeply with its exploration of personal transformation. With its release on September 2nd, this book promises to sweep readers into a world of love, art, and self-discovery, all set against one of the most magical places on Earth.
After landing a job that could allow her to work from basically anywhere in the world, she decides to finally give Rod one last chance after 10 years However, after a couple a ditches in Costa Rico, three to a couch, and showing her that is not where she is going to find her big love, ring...ring...ring best friend and One-nightstand candidate Oliver Long offers his solace in Paris while he is on vacation. Once the plane of love landed, man was there was fire between them the second he sees Stehpanie, the one night on her birthday where they weren't just friends fresh on both their minds. After many glasses of wine, the flower searching, and sketching, they became one by the end of the trip and were even more confused once they got home.
Williams' takes you on an immersive journey, from describing the vibrant flowers of Costa Rico and a marriage worthy Termite eating tour guide to the chill in the air as you walk through the streets of the City of Love and the entertainers in the night. The growing connection with Oliver and Stephanie is magnetic and luring, from Ollie's self-discovery of what he wants and Stephanie's self-discovery of what was always there, she is the Wildflower, and he is a compass, they work well together, and Ollie has my feet swinging in the air and giggling. He is Definity an amazing book boyfriend and I quite honestly should be making a list. The reading was smooth as you see the ups and downs of love and the confusion of not seeing what is right in front of you.
I myself, have ADHD and discovered it recently as well, Stephanie made me feel seen. I do have some of the tendencies of loving to big and freely and not letting anything cloud how I feel about people until I see it for myself. The growth of routine and discovering what works best for YOU and not letting anything or anyone get in the way of that was amazing to see and I will now be adding Costa Rico to my traveling plans one day.
Thank you so much Ally Williams for being my first ARC review and I am so grateful for the opportunity to review your book!!!!! I will now also be reading the first two in the Love and City Lights series which is "Things We've Lost and Found" "Namaste and Code All Day: A friend to lovers Romance"
Thank you for allowing me to read an ARC of “What Happens in Paris”, Ally! I absolutely loved this book - another fantastic read by you! For those of you that don’t know, I fell in love with Ally’s writing with this spring and I was thrilled when I got an email about needing ARC readers for Stephanie & Oliver’s story. Immediately I applied and I’ve been so excited to read this book (even if I had to wait a little longer than I planned due to life being life, ha).
Stephanie and Oliver are funny and sexy and just a joy to read. They both really came to life on the page. While the beginning of the story felt wild (maybe just because I wish I was more like Steph), I really fell in love with their Parisian affair. But, I think the real story really happened when they were back in Philly. It’s so interesting to read books where characters are figuring out that their look and approach for life isn’t quite working out for them and they have to understand what being flexible means. I think Stephanie and Ollie’s story is also fun to watch because it brings in that mental health representation - about how we have to build our lives to function and how we learn how to be more flexible for ourselves as we get confident and comfortable.
Honestly, this was another beautiful romance by Ally. I’m blown away, again, by her writing. It’s real and down to earth. It feels like I’m reading about my own friends and family and I love that we still get tastes of the other friends in the group. Her books don’t shy away from the support we need - friends, family, love, schedules, travel. Whatever it is - I love that she writes books where I feel seen in the characters.
Definitely a great read - it’s out TODAY - so grab a copy!!
Stephanie is looking for her big love and trying to be better about emotionally and mentally caring for herself. Oliver is a workaholic and doesn’t have room to be emotionally available for a real relationship. Oliver has a work trip to Paris, and he invited Stephanie to join him during his week of vacation. After getting a remote job, Stephine travels to Costa Rica to try and rekindle an old relationship that ends in her traveling alone and deciding to join Ollie in Paris. While in Paris, they break down their boundaries and share a romantic week full of champagne, fancy dinners, and a trip to the botanical garden.
As a plant lover and someone who loves to travel, I really connected with Stephanie. I love Ollie’s attraction to Stephanie being captured through his sketches of her. They have such cute and fun adventures together. I enjoyed the complex relationship between Stephanie and Oliver. They each had a lot of growth and self-reflection throughout the book, and I enjoyed seeing how this changed their relationship. I absolutely love a romance with a strong female friend group, and this book delivered! The strong focus on mental health and exploring how ADHD affects people differently was interesting. It emphasized Ollie’s desire to be with Stephanie and his fears about how he can be the best for her while staying true to himself and his goals. Stephanie and Oliver are a perfect match. Their banter and friendship were captivating, and I loved their bedroom adventures.
Thank you, Ally Williams for an ARC copy of What Happens in Paris