The Paris Bookshop for the Broken-Hearted

by Rebecca Raisin, Bronwen Price (narrator)

Start a new chapter at the most enchanting bookshop in Paris

A heartwarming bookish romance from the bestselling author of Summer at the Santorini Bookshop, Rebecca Raisin!

Perfect for fans of Sarah Morgan, Eliza J. Scott and Lucy Score!

Coco is having a hell of a month. She’s lost her boyfriend and her business, been forced to uproot her daughter to move back in with her parents in Paris, and now an infuriatingly handsome stranger is yelling at her for acting like a tourist… Right underneath the Eiffel Tower.

Storming away from him – and swearing off men for life – she decides she’s going to take the first job that comes her way.

Then, as if fate hears her, later that day she stumbles into a little bookshop – but not any old bookshop. This one comes complete with a café, cocktail bar, reading room and secret tunnel of books, and just a little hint of magic in the air. So when Coco’s offered a job selling books there, it feels like the perfect fit.

There’s only one problem… propping up the bar in the bookshop is none other than the grumpy, gorgeous stranger she’d met earlier that day…

Genres: Romance, Fiction, Books About Books, Contemporary, Chick Lit, Audiobook, Womens Fiction

Audible Audio

First published February 3, 2025

Reviews

[Sheila · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy of, The Paris Bookshop for the Broken-Hearted, by Rebecca Raisin, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Coco has moved back home with her parents and daughter, in Paris, after losing her man and her job. Coco has got a new job in a bookstore, but her daughter Eloise is not happy in Paris. This was a good read.

[Sandysbookaday (taking a step back for a while) · Rating 5 out of 5]

EXCERPT: As I'm idling, getting lost in side streets, I come to a cobblestoned laneway that is as pretty as a postcard come to life. There's an array of pastel shopfronts, as if each business coordinated so the colours would complement one another. There's a florist on the corner, with a trolley laden with vibrant blooms, and the exotic perfume of roses permeates the air. There's a paperterie and fromagerie, but my eye is drawn further down to an ornate golden door. A riot of soft pink blooms spill from pots and I see the fluttering of pages atop a display table. A bookshop? I must investigate. I wander down the cobblestones ad grin when I find I'm right. Above a pot of pink ranunculus, a sign waves back and forth in the breeze that reads: The Paris Bookshop for the Broken Hearted. I'm intrigued by the rather gimmicky name. Is it a clever marketing ploy for tourists? What else can it be? Although I've lived in Paris for the majority of my life, I've never seen this laneway. It's not exactly central to the main attractions and I've only found it because of my efforts to hide from that man.
The golden door squeaks as I push it open. As I step inside, I'm met with the unmistakable perfume of old books; an evocative citrus aroma with honeyed vanilla notes. Every bookshop has its own special scent, just like a well-thumbed novel has its own fragrance, from leathery to lavender, or a spicy nuttiness, each note an olfactory clue to its past, its rich history.
As my eyes adjust to the dim lighting, I take in a mahogany bar along the back wall. Bottles of spirits are lined up like the colours of a rainbow as twinkling fairy lights sparkle above. Well-worn leather stools sit empty awaiting patrons. A chalkboard is written up with the daily menu of charcuterie, I smile as I read it:

Romance plat du jour,
because what is life without
love and sugar?
A sweet range of petit fours
and macarons

Crime plat du jour
because it would be a crime
not to snack while you read!
Saucisson, pâté, terrine and
aged fromage served with a
sliced baguette

Fantasy/Sci-Fi Plat du jour
because sometimes we all
need to escape to other
realms . . .
An extravaganza of sweet
and sour bonbons

It's a cute idea to have platters for readers to snack on as they get lost in the pages of a book and require sustenance for the big plot twist coming. It's as though I've pulled back the curtain and found Narnia in this quaint and quirky bookshop. I imagine friends converging here after work, ordering a cocktail while they lament over the ending of a love affair, the pain of a broken heart . . .

ABOUT 'THE PARIS BOOKSHOP FOR THE BROKEN HEARTED': Can you ever swear off love, in the city of love?

Coco is having a hell of a month. She’s lost her boyfriend and her business, been forced to uproot her daughter to move back in with her parents in Paris, and now an infuriatingly handsome stranger is yelling at her for acting like a tourist… Right underneath the Eiffel Tower.

Storming away from him – and swearing off men for life – she decides she’s going to take the first job that comes her way.

Then, as if fate hears her, later that day she stumbles into a little bookshop – but not any old bookshop. This one comes complete with a café, cocktail bar, reading room and secret tunnel of books, and just a little hint of magic in the air. So when Coco’s offered a job selling books there, it feels like the perfect fit.

There’s only one problem… propping up the bar in the bookshop is none other than the grumpy, gorgeous stranger she’d met earlier that day…

MY THOUGHTS: I immediately wanted to book a flight to Paris and wander the streets and laneways until I found this slice of heaven. For surely that is what heaven is, a bookshop in Paris. This bookshop in particular.

I wanted to prop myself up at the bar and see what potion and passage Valérie would prescribe for me. I wanted to meander through the stacks and shelves of books, up the stairways, through the arch of books, to sit at the window in Library Madeline and gaze at the Eiffel Tower. I wanted to sit in the courtyard under the leaning wall of books with a book of my own and a coffee and while away the day. I wanted to go to book group with this diverse group of women (and Henri) who, despite their penchant for loud and heated arguments, care for one another deeply.

The Paris Bookshop for the Broken Hearted is much more than just a romance - it is a story of community, of finding a home, of friendship, love and loyalty. It is a tale of many kinds of grief and of how important friendship is at these times.

I loved all the characters except for Alexander and Molly-Mae, whom I sincerely hope get their just desserts. Yes, even Eloise, Coco's difficult teenage daughter who longs for nothing more than to return to London and her friends.

The plot is simply delicious, sublime, realistic and entertaining. I cannot speak highly enough of this author, this book. It left me with eyes sparkling and a smile on my face that has yet to disappear.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

#FollowtheauthorRebeccaRaisinRebeccaRaisinRebeccaRaisinFollowTheParisBookshopfortheBrokenHearted #NetGalley

MEET THE AUTHOR: Rebecca Raisin is a true bibliophile. This love of books morphed into the desire to write them. She’s been published in various short story anthologies and in in fiction magazines, and is now focusing on writing romance.
Rebecca Raisin writes characters you can see yourself being friends with. People with big hearts who care about relationships and believe in true, once in a lifetime love.

DISCLSOURE: Thank you to Boldwood Books via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of The Paris Bookshop for the Broken Hearted for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.

https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...

[ItaPixie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm in love with the city of Paris and books, so I've chosen this read for the title and the cover, but I've found so much more than a romantic story set in the city of love. The pages are filled with a difficult mother daughter relationship, a diverse group of friends, and an unexpected attraction for a charming, grumpy man.

The Paris Bookshop for the Broken-Hearted tells Coco's story. She is back to Paris after a bad break up, with a hostile daughter who hated to leave London, without a job, and with her savings getting lower and lower. A day, while strolling for the city's streets she finds a bookshop that gives her a job, a new group of friends, and a new hope.

Coco is understandably shook by the chain of events that forced her to reconsider and rearrange her lifestyle choices, but I've appreciated how she doesn't give in to self-pity, and she is ready to roll up her sleeves and start anew.

"Lovebirds with damaged wings are always hesitant."

I liked how Rebecca Raisin builds up her stories: Paris is perfectly drawn, you can feel the vibrant atmosphere, the pace is good, the characters are lively and endearing, and the emotions flow out of the book and they hit right to the heart.

I highly recommend to get this novel, and let you dream about walking through the Parisian boulevard under a warm spring sun.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for kindly giving me an advanced copy of this book to read.

[Maddy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love reading a new Rebecca Raisin book. It’s as comforting as sinking into a warm bubble bath. The only trouble is that I find myself up half the night to read ‘just one more chapter’. It was also lovely that Rebecca slipped in a ‘cameo’ of Anais – the heroine from a previous book – it was like meeting an old friend.

Coco is half English and half French. She was living her best life in the UK - Joint head of a Publishing company with her boyfriend, wonderful daughter, and a lovely home. When it transpires that said boyfriend has been stealing royalties from the writers, he disappears leaving her to clear up the mess. By the time she has made recompense to everyone, she is left with nothing, and has to relocate to Paris and move in with her parents – taking an extremely grumpy teenager - who is extremely unhappy about being separated from her friends! Unable to get a job in the publishing industry because of the adverse publicity, Coco find herself taking a job in a Bookshop to make ends meet – and not just any Bookshop – a very special bookshop which seems to be able to mend broken hearts – or perhaps that is just the owner!

If you haven’t tried any Rebecca Raisin books yet, I recommend all of them! This one is up there with the best of them – and you get the beauty and atmosphere of Paris too. Perfect.

[Lisa (Two Bookish Brits) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my how incredibly adorable this book was!

Coco is escaping her life in London to come back home to Paris. After a man screwed her over and left her with nothing she’s back home and starting over again. When she stumbles across a hidden bookstore she has no idea how much her life is about to change.

Henri is still very angry and sad about the woman who upped and walked out of his life. He has walls up around his heart. When the woman in the bookstore ends up being the woman who bumped into him and the same woman he saved from street robbers he’s suspicious yet intrigued.

Watching these two interact throughout the book has been so much fun. They banter and they argue which leaves you laughing out loud.

I have to say that little twist near the end…I did not see coming but it made so much sense.

I absolutely adored the book club aspect of this story. The broken hearted coming together to share their favourite reads and for a little chat. I loved how strong the friendships between them all were and man, I just loved everything.

Now I’m going to stop there because I don’t want to spoil this book for anyone it deserves to be read in its entirety without spoilers!!

The Paris Bookshop for the Broken Hearted was a fun Contemporary Romance book filled with humour and depth and a book club that’ll make you smile.

It’s a book that covers some tough topics such as loss of a parent / child and the long standing grief it causes, bullying and the struggles of moving to a new place as a teen and trying to fit in as well as other subjects. It was sad and hard yet beautiful at the same time.

This author is new to me but I’ll certainly be reading more from her in the future.

[Karen Stallman · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Paris Bookshop for the Broken-Hearted” by Rebecca Raisin. I really enjoyed stepping away from my normal mystery reading and it was so refreshing and heartfelt. I’m a big fan of Rebecca Raisin’s books.

I absolutely loved this book! I found myself engrossed in story, after Coco’s story as she rediscovers herself and uproots her daughter by moving back to Paris.

I found the story to be more about finding your way in the world, family, friendship and yes love. I highly recommend this book to anyone who loves books and wants a feel good read.

I requested and received an Advanced Readers Copy from Boldwood Books and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Cindy Spear · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Paris Bookshop for the Broken Hearted is an expertly written contemporary romance with a lot of depth, heart and humour. I was very impressed with the level of wisdom, charm and problem-solving skills seen in this novel. Many think romance stories are light and fluffy with little thought-provoking content but this is far from the truth. Rebecca’s books, and this one in particular, covers a number of heavy topics like bullying, partnership deception (business and romantically), emotional trauma caused by abrupt location moves, loss of support friends, abandonment, betrayal, long standing grief from the death of loved ones. Drastic changes can be detrimental to a person’s emotional health, no matter the age. This novel explores both the obvious and less expected effects when lives are up-ended, routines are interrupted and home and school locations are changed. A person’s sense of security can be lost and one can feel all at sea in their environment. This can result in bad or unusual behaviour as seen in Eloise, Coco’s daughter. Although Coco’s escape to Paris from London, provided the familiar support of her parents, it meant a loss for her daughter. Although she gained the presence of her grandparents, she lost everyone and everything else she had known and loved—including her closest friends.

When Coco is betrayed by her romantic and business partner, she is put in a bad position with her publishing company. After trying to make amends with her authors, she leaves London with her daughter and returns to her former home in Paris to stay temporarily with her parents until she can find a job and another place to live. In the meantime, she ends up in a tussle under the Eiffel Tower when a thief tries to steal from her. And a handsome stranger comes to her rescue only to accuse her of acting like a tourist when he discovers she has Parisian roots. When she stumbles across the Paris Bookshop for the Broken Hearted, she is taken with this unique shop and its unusual owner. On top of this, much to her dislike, she discovers the rude stranger Henri that she met at the Eiffel Tower is a frequent visitor to the shop.

After a few visits to this special bookshop, owner Valerie, offers Coco a job. Coco is thrilled as she thinks it might be fun to work in a bookstore. She is an editor and loves books so how hard can it be! She learns quickly this shop is run in a very different way than she is accustomed. But it is an intriguing magical social place where booklovers with broken hearts hang out and receive words of guidance and wisdom from Valerie. There’s a cocktail bar, book tunnel, special reading room and a book club with fiery members. This work experience proves to be a good distraction and a means to save money for a new home. The job helps restore her confidence and gets her back on her feet. While she gets to know many of the regular customers, there are numerous humorous moments and some uncomfortable ones, too. Especially when she is forced to get to know the grumpy stranger, Henri, that Valerie is determined to match her up with. Coco has sworn off relationships after her last fiasco, but can she keep up the wall of resistance against this handsome Henri who is quite different from what she expected? There are surprises along the way as they get to know each other, amid the challenges Coco faces with her daughter, too. There are disturbing social issues at Eloise’s school that keep Coco teetering on the edge. What she eventually learns will shock and upset her and make her take a second look at how she sees the world and those closest to her.

There are a number of excellent supporting characters that keep the story lively. Problems are identified and solutions found and a second chance at happiness is definitely on the cards or in the books for not only Coco but others in the cast! I truly enjoyed The Paris Bookshop for the Broken Hearted with its witty dialogue, likeable characters, wonderful bookish atmosphere and romantic Parisian setting—all delivered with utmost skill and maturity. For me, this was a delightful surprise that reminded me of Emily Henry’s books and even a bit of Rebecca F. Kuang’s Yellowface ( in its style of wit and publishing world happenings). I highly recommend Rebecca Raisin’s new novel as I am sure readers will love what it has to offer. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for a review copy.

[Shelleyrae at Book'd Out · Rating 4 out of 5]

“…you know how books find us at the very right time, right when our souls are yearning for a fix that we cannot name?’ …. ‘The same goes for The Paris Bookshop for the Broken-Hearted. The lost, the lonely, heartsick, heartsore find their way here. Find sanctuary.’”

Betrayed by her lover and business partner, book editor Coco Chevallier is forced to leave London with her 13 year old daughter and move back home to live with her parents in Paris. Distracted by her worries while wandering around the Eiffel Tower, she’s humiliated when a handsome stranger blasts her for failing to notice a bunch of pickpockets and in storming away Coco stumbles across The Paris Bookshop for the Broken-Hearted where she finds a cocktail, comfort, and second chance at the life and love she wants.

Always eager to support Australian authors, I’ve been wanting to read something by Rebecca Raisin for a while so when she posted a call out on BlueSky I jumped at the chance, and was delighted by this sweet contemporary romance novel with a bit of an edge as it touches on several serious themes including grief, bullying, illness, loneliness, and heartbreak.

The Paris Bookshop for the Broken-Hearted is every booklover’s dream destination. A cosy store on a cobblestone street in Paris that offers comfortable spaces, cocktails, cake, and charcuterie boards, Raisin describes a haven that I’d love to explore. Valerie is the bookshop’s warm and wise owner with a sixth sense for knowing what her patrons need, and she knows Coco needs a job.

Coco has had a difficult time of late and I definitely had sympathy for her. She’s lost everything, including her reputation, and the man who took it seems to have escaped any consequences. Coco’s teenage daughter’s vocal opposition to the loss of her life in London doesn’t make things any easier for her, and I thought Raisin captured their fraught relationship well.

Romance happens when Coco discovers the aforementioned angry handsome stranger is a regular at the bookstore. Journalist Henri is nursing his own hurts after a failed relationship, and though they clearly find each other attractive, both he and Coco are wary of starting anything, despite Valerie’s gentle support. Then just as they decide to take the risk, Raisin reveals a surprising twist that may leave them both broken-hearted again.

The writing is lovely and the author balances the more serious topics with humour and warmth. The colourful members of the bookshop’s bookclub add further interest to the story and perhaps a path for Raisin to revisit the store in a future series.

Charming and heartwarming, I enjoyed The Paris Bookshop for the Broken-Hearted’s magical setting, appealing characters, and satisfying happy ever after. I’ll be sure to read more from Rebecca Raisin soon.

[Ramona · Rating 4 out of 5]

At first I thought oh no what did I get myself into … a book about love potions and cures for the broken hearted but it is so much more. Coco is a disgraced editor fleeing London due to a scandal. She is forced to return home to Paris and start anew. After being turned down for every editing position, she takes a job at a bookstore. There she meets the owner, Valerie, and a quirky cast of characters that make up book club … including a handsome stranger named Henri whom she keeps bumping into. Coco also has to deal with her 13 yr old daughter who is extremely unhappy to have been uprooted from her friends and life in London. Some twists and surprises along the way too. I thoroughly enjoyed this book!

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

I think this was my favorite of RR’s books set in Paris!

[Sinéad Loughnane · Rating 4 out of 5]

this book gave me cosy japanese translated fiction vibes...but instead of being set in tokyo it's set in paris. there is a slight magical undertone to the story but it's not unrealistic. the main character is described as a word nerd and i would say the same applies to the author as i had to look up quite a few words haha. was an enjoyable cosy read!

[Carol (Reading Ladies) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Paris Bookshop for the Broken-Hearted is poignant women’s fiction featuring a mother/daughter relationship, a community of readers, and a sweet side of romance.

Coco arrives in Paris after a breakup and losing her job. She and her daughter will move in with her parents until she can find a job, any job. Coco comes across a charming little bookshop complete with a cafe, a cocktail bar, and a reading room, and she’s offered a job. To her dismay, she sees the grumpy (handsome) man reading at the cocktail bar that she’s had an unpleasant encounter with recently. What are the chances? Can bookshops heal broken hearts?

Rebecca Raisin loves Paris, books about books, and romance, and l have found her to be a dependable author in women’s fiction. Her stories (those I’ve read) are closed door romances with limited (to zero) profanity for readers whose preferences are similar. I love that she writes books for book lovers. Have you read Rebecca Raisin? Do you have a favorite book?

One of the reasons I enjoy Rebecca Raisin is that her stories have substantial themes beyond romance. In other words, I would consider her books to fall into the women’s fiction category rather than romance. In this story, there is a focus on the mother/daughter relationship, family dynamics, a community of readers, and bullying. The romance element is there, but it’s a side and doesn’t necessarily drive the action.

As the title suggests, those that suffer from broken hearts are drawn to the bookstore. The owner seems to know what each person needs. This sprinkling of magic is enough to make the story fun and intriguing but is never annoying for readers who prefer not to entertain the idea. Even though I avoid magical realism, I enjoy the idea that bookshops, books, and a bookish community can all have a role in healing the brokenhearted.

Content Consideration: bullying

I’m warmly recommending Paris Bookshop for the Broken-Hearted for fans of Rebecca Raisin and books about books/bookshops, community, mother/daughter relationships, family drama, and sweet romance.

Thanks #NetGalley @BoldwoodBooks for a complimentary eARC of #TheParisBookshopForTheBrokenHearted upon my request. All opinions are my own.

For more reviews visit my blog www.readingladies.com where this review was first published.

[Kate_KaylaDean · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rebecca Raisin does it AGAIN. A beautifully charming romance that wrapped me in a warm blanket of second chances and the transformative power of friends, family…and books.

Set in Paris, this is as much a love letter to literature and writers as it is the city itself. Raisin excels at creating realistic and vivid settings making you feel like you’re actually there yourself as you follow along with the characters.

Soft romance (is that what it’s called?) is my thing, it’s my jam. Coco and Henri’s relationship is a slow burn (an utterly cute one, might I add), but what makes The Paris Bookshop for the Broken Hearted a winner for me is that Raisin hasn’t just focused on the two main characters – I also found myself engrossed in the broken-hearted stories of her daughter, Eloise as well as bookshop owner Valerie and all the members of the shop’s book club.

Because who ever said that a broken heart only came from a lover?

Raisin has captured the tender balance of heartbreak and healing perfectly, so if you’re looking for a beautiful story of a woman finding herself again in life and love, The Paris Bookshop for the Broken Hearted is for you.

The story: Coco’s lost her boyfriend and her business, been forced to uproot her daughter and move back in with her parents in Paris, and now a handsome stranger is yelling at her for acting like a tourist under the Eiffel Tower. Storming away from him, she feels like the world is against her when she tries to find work in her industry, but following the scandal she’s escaping from, she stumbles into a little bookshop, which incidentally has a job opening.

Complete with café, cocktail bar, reading room and a secret tunnel of books, there’s magic in the air, and Coco’s life feels like it’s starting to see the light again. There’s only one problem…propping up the bar in the bookshop is none other than the grumpy, gorgeous stranger she’d met under the Eiffel Tower.

Thank you Rebecca for honouring me with reading a review copy! The Paris Bookshop for the Broken Hearted is out 3 February 2025!

[Shauntelle (myglamorousreads) · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you're looking for a cozy, feel-good read with a touch of romance and a whole lot of charm, The Paris Bookshop for the Broken-Hearted is a good choice. This book is such a warm and fuzzy read, perfect for when you need a little escape with heart and charm. It’s got everything I love—books, Paris, and a main character you just want to root for. What reader doesn't love a book based around books??

While delightful, the story doesn't really break new ground in the genre. It's a slightly predictable, but still enjoyable, ride. Sometimes it felt a tad bit too predictable, but that didn't stop me from enjoying it. If you're in the mood for a light, heartwarming escape to Paris with books and new beginnings, this is a cute read that you will enjoy. Overall, it’s a charming story about healing, hope, and the magic of books.

This book is about a woman who's recently had her heart stomped on. To escape her woes, she takes off to Paris and lands a job in a quaint little English bookshop. While she's there, she's not just selling books; she's also helping other broken-hearted folks find solace in literature and finding a little healing for herself along the way. It's a journey of self-discovery and new friendships.

I loved all the literary references and the way Paris is brought to life; it made me want to book a flight and get lost in a cozy corner of a bookstore. Coco is relatable and real, and her emotional journey is just as satisfying as the romantic one. If you’re a fan of second chances, romance, and stories that celebrate the power of books, this book will absolutely win you over.

Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.

[Libbie · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Paris Bookshop for the Broken-Hearted follows Coco and Eloise, a mother and daughter duo, who are forced to move back to Paris after Coco's business goes under and the man she loves betrays her. Newly single, jobless and heartbroken, Coco stumbles on a quaint bookshop and finds more than just a new job and a new start waiting for her.

This was a sweet and wholesome easy read; a tale of friendship, triumph over adversity and love in unlikely places. The romance was slow to burn and sweet. The author's strength is in her descriptions and making the reader feel immersed in the world. I wish that little bookshop was real.

At times it seemed that the author didn't really know what the tone was she wanted in scenes. Humour sometimes felt misplaced. The overabundance of Gen Z slang from the FMC's daughter also got very grating at times. I wish this was toned down a lot more.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own

[Alayne Emmett · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a lovely book. It was set in Paris, in a bookshop, with an added romance. Teenage angst and lots of book titles mentioned throughout the book. I loved this one and gobbled it up. A perfect read for this time of year. It wasn't Christmassy it was just a cozy read. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coco has just lost her business and her partner when she found out that he was stealing from clients at their publishing company and having an affair with a co-worker. She and her daughter have moved to Paris and back in with her parents, in their two bedroom apartment. After an uncomfortable experience with pick pockets and a local, she vows to take the first job she can find. Later that day she finds herself in a little bookshop, but not an ordinary one. This shop has a café, cocktail bar, reading room and secret tunnel of books, and just a little hint of magic. When Coco’s offered a job selling books there, she accepts and her new life begins. She is happy in her new position, until the grumpy stranger shows up. Living with her parents, dealing with her extremely distraught daughter who misses her friends and just wants to move back to England and trying to decide what to do about getting her money back from her ex, all have Coco trying to move on with her life.

I love Rebecca Raisin's books set in Paris. The setting is wonderful and always makes me want to head there for a holiday. Can a bookshop heal broken hearts? This book almost makes me want to believe it can. Coco was a great character, a mother, a daughter, a friend and a woman who is struggling. She accepted all responsibility for the stolen funds and lost everything making it right. Her daughter Eloise was not easy to like during this story. She was selfish, took her anger out on her mother, lied to her and was a bully. She does redeem herself at the end. The other characters in the story are all supportive of each other, all have things that have happened to them in the past and are trying to move on by helping others. Themes in this book include friendship, some romance, grief in loss of relationships, new beginnings, mother/daughter relationships, bullying, honesty, responsibility, peer pressure and more. I enjoyed the story, the characters, the personal growth and the bookstore and all the book talk that went with it. If you like bookish books with a side of romance, I recommend this one. I listened to the audiobook narrated by Bronwen Price. I enjoyed her narration and storytelling skills.

[Wendy(Wendyreadsbooks) Robey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a beautiful ode to love, to books and to friendship.
It pulled me in from the very first page and I’ve loved spending time getting to know Coco, Henri and Valerie.
The bookshop sounded so wonderful - a haven for lost souls hidden in the side streets of Paris - described as that place you’d stumble upon when you needed it most.
The warmth and feeling of community came from the whole story and hearing about how words and stories changed so many of our character’s lives was rather poetic.
The art of Kintsugi intrigued me and learning about how the flaws and breaks are fixed with the golden thread was a beautiful metaphor for how we are as humans - how life can damage us but how we’re often stronger as a result of the healing.
All the stars

[Susan Buchanan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Funny, heartfelt and romantic

This is the first book I’ve read by Rebecca and it definitely won’t be my last. I adored it and inhaled it in just a few days. I’m going to Paris next month and I’ve already been making note on where to visit and what to eat - from the book! Cast of characters was wonderful. Deliciously romantic. I loved it all.

[Trina 🌻 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love that Coco found the Paris bookshop. A sweet and lighthearted grumpy x sunshine romance set in the city of love. I also enjoyed the bookish component along with the mysterious twists.

Thank you to the author, NetGalley and Boldwood Books for a copy to review.

[Natasha · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very sweet story. I’ll admit the bratty teenager did annoy the heck out of me but it made sense in the end. I love the different little stories of the people she meets.

[Michelle Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cozy read

This author has been hit or miss for me. I loved Santorini Bookshop and disliked The Little Venice Bookshop. I’m happy to say that this was a hit with me. The only deduction of a star is because I saw one of the twists coming from the beginning. Otherwise, very cozy with just enough heartbreak and romance to keep it from being flat.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

As with others by this author, this was uplifting; an easy listen. Excellently narrated.

[Kerry · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a beautiful book that helped me through the dark days of January tremendously. It's clear that the author has an affinity with Paris as it is written about so lovingly - even though Coco, the main character, is back living with her parents and sharing a room with her daughter, being back in Paris made this seem not as depressing as it could've been.
although there is definitely romance in the storyline, the book is about much more than just meeting 'the one'. It's about finding your place in a new reality, formed from the broken embers of your previous one, and realising that you are stronger for it. The sense of community that Coco finds within the slightly magical bookshop is exactly what she needed, the romance is a bonus on top of that.
All of the secondary characters are just fabulous too, especially Valerie. I could smell, hear, and feel her bookshop as the descriptions were so detailed...just lovely

[mrsljgibbs · Rating 5 out of 5]

I would just like to say a big thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources who very kindly forwarded me an arc copy of this book, for my Kindle, in return for my honest review…

I do love a book that is set in a bookshop and this one was perfect - a wonderful, escapist read and i thoroughly enjoyed it all!

I was intrigued by this book right from the very beginning and it pulled me in and kept me captive all the way through until i had completely devoured it all.

All the characters were wonderful, not just Coco but all the other additional characters too and i really enjoyed getting to know them all - especially Henri, the handsome stranger, i loved getting to know his story.

This book was perfect armchair travel and i found myself wanting to visit Paris and have a wander around the bookshop and inhale the wonderful atmosphere…..

[bookloversclub2023 · Rating 5 out of 5]

PR- As part of the cover reveal team for this book I was blessed with an advanced copy of the book so thank you Rebecca, Boldwood books and NetGalley.

Coco is having a hell of a month. She’s lost her boyfriend and her business, been forced to uproot her daughter to move back in with her parents in Paris, and now an infuriatingly handsome stranger is yelling at her for acting like a tourist… Right underneath the Eiffel Tower.

Storming away from him – and swearing off men for life – she decides she’s going to take the first job that comes her way.

Then, as if fate hears her, later that day she stumbles into a little bookshop – but not any old bookshop. This one comes complete with a café, cocktail bar, reading room and secret tunnel of books, and just a little hint of magic in the air. So when Coco’s offered a job selling books there, it feels like the perfect fit.

There’s only one problem… propping up the bar in the bookshop is none other than the grumpy, gorgeous stranger she’d met earlier that day…

A book about finding yourself again and a little romance. I loved this book and can’t wait to read more by Rebecca. The writing flowed so well and each chapter has hidden bits that make the whole story cohesive.

I was enthralled by all the other characters too not just Coco and Henry. Everyone who came into the bookshop had a story to tell and who said broken hearts are only in the form of lovers? Each character has a backstory and added something to the story.

Everyone really needs to read this one, it is beautifully written, words woven together with thought and love. It’s based in a bookshop in Paris, who doesn’t love books about books and with a stunning backdrop? It was a perfect read.

This has to be on your 2025 reading list. It is out on the 3rd February 2025.

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the second book I have read from this author and it did not disappoint!

We follow Coco as she uproots hers and her daughter’s lives in London, to move back with her parents in Paris. As you continue reading you find out why.

This story deals with relationship loss, moving on and standing strongly when everything around you seems to be crumpling. It tells of letting people help you, your family, new friends, accepting changes and making them work for you.

It’s a lovely written tale, the author describes the settings so well, there’s humour mixed in but issues they face are dealt with sensitivity. Her daughter’s story is handled so very well, dealing with a sense of loosing friends and bullying.

I love the book club within this story, it had me thinking of the book club I attend and who the various characters remind me of.

Writing this review is making me realise quite how many sensitive issues are discussed within the book, not just our main character and her daughter, but also other characters we meet and care greatly for as the book continues. However, the author writes them so well that, although some are heartbreaking, she shows the resilience of the characters, the support they have around them, how life can be cruel but how people adapt, move on but never forget.

All in all a wonderful read. I loved that Anais from the previous book featured briefly in this one as well.

The first half of this book really sets the scene, pulls you in, introduces you to everyone. The second half then just doesn’t let you go, you are so invested in everything that happens you won’t be able to put it down!

[Book_withquotes · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing an arc of the book. This book was released on February 3rd, 2025 .

The Paris Bookshop for the Broken-Hearted by Rebecca Raisin is a charming and heartwarming novel that blends romance with elements of women’s fiction, creating a delightful reading experience. Coco’s journey from heartbreak and professional loss in London to finding solace and a new beginning in Paris is beautifully portrayed. The book paints a vivid picture of a magical bookshop, complete with a café, cocktail bar, and a community of readers, offering a haven for those seeking comfort and healing.

Raisin’s strength lies in her ability to create relatable and engaging characters, particularly Coco and Henri, whose initial antagonistic encounters evolve into a tender romance. The book explores the complexities of their past hurts and their cautious approach to new relationships, adding depth to their connection. The supporting characters, especially the bookshop’s owner, Valerie, and the members of the book club, contribute to the cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Raisin’s writing style is both evocative and accessible, making the book an enjoyable and comforting read. The book’s focus on themes like mother-daughter relationships, personal resilience, and the power of community, elevates it beyond a typical romance novel. The book’s cozy atmosphere and its celebration of books and bookshops will appeal to a wide range of readers, especially those who appreciate stories with heart and a touch of magic.

[Jenny’s Library · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Paris Bookshop for the Broken Hearted by Rebecca Raisin. Coco loses everything she has build, her connections with long time authors to her finances because of her ex boyfriend Alexandre. She then has to move to Paris to have a fresh start with her daughter Eloise who does not agree to this move. Coco does not have the heart to share why they are moving from London to Paris. What are the odds that the grumpy man you stumble at the airport is the same guy who frequents the bookshop Coco is now working. Coincidence r or Bookshop Magic 🪄

My Thoughts 💭
• too many mentions of social media platforms
• love the book club
• if the bookshop was really I would definitely visit
• definitely millennial mother vs gen Z daughter relationship
• for the book lovers who love to read about books and bookstore
• Definitely want to be a member of the book club

Mini Summary

• An editor who loses everything
• Grumpy Parisian guy
•broken hearts
•book club
• Everyone has a secret

Thank you NetGalley for the advance arc.

[Shaina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Rebecca Raisin for providing me with a complimentary digital ARC for The Paris Bookshop for the Broken-Hearted coming out February 3, 2025. The honest opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Coco is having a hell of a month. She’s lost her boyfriend and her business, been forced to uproot her daughter to move back in with her parents in Paris, and now an infuriatingly handsome stranger is yelling at her for acting like a tourist…

Right underneath the Eiffel Tower.
Storming away from him – and swearing off men for life – she decides she’s going to take the first job that comes her way.

Then, as if fate hears her, later that day she stumbles into a little bookshop – but not any old bookshop. This one comes complete with a café, cocktail bar, reading room and secret tunnel of books, and just a little hint of magic in the air. So when Coco’s offered a job selling books there, it feels like the perfect fit.

There’s only one problem… propping up the bar in the bookshop is none other than the grumpy, gorgeous stranger she’d met earlier that day…

I really enjoy this author! I have several of her books. A lot of her books mix bookshops and romance in beautiful settings. Contemporary romance isn’t my favorite, but I really enjoyed this book because of the added coziness and bookish vibes. I loved the characters.

I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys romance books!