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Finding Paris: A Stirring YA Mystery Thriller About the Unbreakable Bond Between Sisters and the Search for Truth
An evocative and compelling story of two sisters who would do anything for each other—perfect for fans of Thirteen Reasons Why and Speak. Joy Preble's stirring new novel explores the lengths to which sisters go to protect each other, and the winding road that brings two strangers into each other's lives.
Sisters Leo and Paris Hollings have only ever had each other to rely on. They can't trust their mother, who hops from city to city and from guy to guy, or their gambler stepfather, who's moved them all to Las Vegas. It's just the two of them: Paris, who's always been the dreamer, and Leo, who has a real future in mind—going to Stanford, becoming a doctor, falling in love. But Leo isn't going anywhere right now, except driving around Vegas all night with her sister.
Until Paris ditches Leo at the Heartbreak Hotel Diner, where moments before they had been talking with physics student Max Sullivan. Outside, Leo finds a cryptic note from Paris—a clue. Is it some kind of game? Where is Paris, and why has she disappeared? When Leo reluctantly accepts Max's offer of help, the two find themselves following a string of clues through Vegas and beyond. But the search for the truth is not a straight line. And neither is the path to secrets Leo and Max hold inside.
Sisters Leo and Paris Hollings have only ever had each other to rely on. They can't trust their mother, who hops from city to city and from guy to guy, or their gambler stepfather, who's moved them all to Las Vegas. It's just the two of them: Paris, who's always been the dreamer, and Leo, who has a real future in mind—going to Stanford, becoming a doctor, falling in love. But Leo isn't going anywhere right now, except driving around Vegas all night with her sister.
Until Paris ditches Leo at the Heartbreak Hotel Diner, where moments before they had been talking with physics student Max Sullivan. Outside, Leo finds a cryptic note from Paris—a clue. Is it some kind of game? Where is Paris, and why has she disappeared? When Leo reluctantly accepts Max's offer of help, the two find themselves following a string of clues through Vegas and beyond. But the search for the truth is not a straight line. And neither is the path to secrets Leo and Max hold inside.
272 pages, Hardcover
First published April 21, 2015
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February 3, 2015
(Source: I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thank to HarperCollins and Edelweiss.)
“Stay calm, Leo. This is the only way. He’s making me. You have to find me. xParis 0 00 1 36
This book. It drove me nuts.
‘My sister slams the brakes, and we both jolt forward, seat belts tightening. “You know I’d do anything for you,” she says. “Well, maybe not work at that yogurt place. Because it’s yogurt, you know?”'
Thanks sis.
The characters in this drove me potty. Paris takes off in her car, leaving her little sister Leo stranded at a diner, with no phone, no money, and no way of getting home. She leaves a ridiculous note claiming that she’s being forced to go somewhere against her will, and asks her sister (who she just abandoned) to find her. Err, how do you expect her to do that? In case you’ve forgotten, you’ve got her wallet, keys, phone, and only mode of transportation. Clever.
“Near the water, Leo. Remember? That’s where we were happy, right? You and me. Sisters.”
So Leo goes on this wild goose chase to find her sister. All worried that her sister has been kidnapped! But don’t worry too much, Leo is no saint herself. She couldn’t care less that she loses a $50 bill out the window of the car, she recklessly throws her mother’s cell phone into the sea on a whim, and of course, finds time to fall in love whilst seeking said missing sister. Ugh.
“Find me. I’ve got your money safe, but I need you, L. xoParis.”
Oh yes, did I mention that said sister also stole all of her little sister’s college fund from her room? All $5,780? I swear, if this girl was my sister I would have killed her by now. Especially when the wild goose chase takes them from Las Vegas, to LA. Thanks for a lovely trip sis.
“Go to LA, Leo. I’m waiting for you. Where we were happy, Leo. You’ll remember. Hurry.”
I mean really? If you’ve not been kidnapped, and are in fact not in any kind of trouble, or needing help in any way, why on earth are you sending your sister all over the place trying to find you? Are you not a bit old for hide-and-go-seek? Do you not take into consideration that she’s scared for you? That your whole family is worried what has happened to you? That your sister has a job she needs to get to and doesn’t want to be up all night looking for you? How freaking selfish are you?
“I need you to do this, Leo. You’ll figure it out once you’re in LA.”
Ugh. The cat has the right idea. I want out too.
And now, I’m afraid I have problems with the ending too -
Ugh. I mean really, ugh. So not impressed by this book. Yuck.
4 out of 10
--All quotes are from the unfinished book, so may be subject to change--
“Stay calm, Leo. This is the only way. He’s making me. You have to find me. xParis 0 00 1 36
This book. It drove me nuts.
‘My sister slams the brakes, and we both jolt forward, seat belts tightening. “You know I’d do anything for you,” she says. “Well, maybe not work at that yogurt place. Because it’s yogurt, you know?”'
Thanks sis.
The characters in this drove me potty. Paris takes off in her car, leaving her little sister Leo stranded at a diner, with no phone, no money, and no way of getting home. She leaves a ridiculous note claiming that she’s being forced to go somewhere against her will, and asks her sister (who she just abandoned) to find her. Err, how do you expect her to do that? In case you’ve forgotten, you’ve got her wallet, keys, phone, and only mode of transportation. Clever.
“Near the water, Leo. Remember? That’s where we were happy, right? You and me. Sisters.”
So Leo goes on this wild goose chase to find her sister. All worried that her sister has been kidnapped! But don’t worry too much, Leo is no saint herself. She couldn’t care less that she loses a $50 bill out the window of the car, she recklessly throws her mother’s cell phone into the sea on a whim, and of course, finds time to fall in love whilst seeking said missing sister. Ugh.
“Find me. I’ve got your money safe, but I need you, L. xoParis.”
Oh yes, did I mention that said sister also stole all of her little sister’s college fund from her room? All $5,780? I swear, if this girl was my sister I would have killed her by now. Especially when the wild goose chase takes them from Las Vegas, to LA. Thanks for a lovely trip sis.
“Go to LA, Leo. I’m waiting for you. Where we were happy, Leo. You’ll remember. Hurry.”
I mean really? If you’ve not been kidnapped, and are in fact not in any kind of trouble, or needing help in any way, why on earth are you sending your sister all over the place trying to find you? Are you not a bit old for hide-and-go-seek? Do you not take into consideration that she’s scared for you? That your whole family is worried what has happened to you? That your sister has a job she needs to get to and doesn’t want to be up all night looking for you? How freaking selfish are you?
“I need you to do this, Leo. You’ll figure it out once you’re in LA.”
Ugh. The cat has the right idea. I want out too.
And now, I’m afraid I have problems with the ending too -
Ugh. I mean really, ugh. So not impressed by this book. Yuck.
4 out of 10
--All quotes are from the unfinished book, so may be subject to change--
June 29, 2015
THAT PLOT TWIST IN THE END.
THIS BOOK HELLA TOOK MY BREATH AWAY.
ABSOLUTE BRILLIANCE!
At first thought, Finding Paris is very much alike to Paper Towns and Looking for Alaska. After reading this book, my head was filled with thoughts on what it is about disappearing and getting lost. I don’t know why but I like these kind of books. There’s something more than just getting lost you know? Like they may get lost in different kind of ways but I think I’ve figured out why people would like to get lost, it’s not to be found, but to find their own selves. To find who they really are when they are not sure of it, to find their true selves and never get back in losing themselves ever again.
So, I'm not sure exactly what I was expecting from this book, but either way it blew those expectations out of the water. This was just such a good book and I don't know how to review it because I don't want to give away anything because I feel like going in not expecting much out of it is part of why I loved it so much; it just wow-ed me.
So, the book starts off with Leo and her sister Paris going to the Heartbreak Hotel Diner after Paris breaks up with her boyfriend. Paris dares Leo to go over and talk to the cute boy (Max Sullivan) a couple tables over. Leo brings him pie and they all get to talking. That's when Paris goes outside and never comes back setting the stage for her scavenger hunt of sorts. Leaving clues all over Vegas for Leo telling her to come and find her.
I really don't know where to start with this review so let's just jump in.
*A Few Of My Likes:
Leo - The girl who thinks she has it all figured out, until the night her life is turned upside down. I really enjoyed her and her character development. Quiet, unassuming, and rock solid, I loved that she got past her perfect facade. She is a really complex character and that comes out beautifully through the writing.
The romance - The romance is the classic movie style romance kind. I could see this easily playing out as a plot of a movie the entire time I was reading. The cute guy and pretty girl were brought together into a thrilling quest to find answers and go on a road trip while their attraction for each other grows. The deeper and more gritty reality of what is going on prevents it from being overly sweet and allows the romance to be the light part of the story. There's no insta-love happening here, despite the insta-attraction. The possibility of maybe floats through their interactions, and that's all either character can really commit to, especially once the truth is revealed.
The mystery aspect - The mystery is gripping. You'll be consumed with a need to find out Paris' secret. While it's not impossible to figure it all out, I didn't quite put all the puzzle pieces together immediately. This story is one where the journey to the destination is the entire point, so enjoy the ride.
Road trip - It does have a road trip aspect which I always love, while at the same time it's not a happy go lucky road trip book.
*A Few Of My Dislikes:
Paris - Don't get me wrong I liked Paris, I just wish she'd been in the book a little more. I think she was one of the best characters, but we only get to see her in a few parts and in Leo's memories. Especially towards the end as everything gets more frantic and then kind of slows down, I wanted to see more of Paris. In a way, this book is all about sisters but in a way that's kind of pushed off to the side too.
Max - Max was a very interesting character, a few times he kind of flip-flopped, acting completely different from how he did through the rest of the book which was kind of confusing and off-putting. I also didn't completely understand his secret stuff, I mean I understood it but it just felt awkward and almost unneeded, it didn't make the impact it was supposed I think.
A lack of emotion - Throughout the book it is kind of lacking in emotion. I didn't even notice it until I finished the book and once everything is revealed it makes sense, but I like to FEEL all the characters emotions and there was a definite lack of that.
Overall, Finding Paris was a heavily character driven book and I enjoyed that part of the book tremendously. For me, it was a favorite material that hits you right in the feels. It's very fast paced to which adds to the feeling of urgency that makes up the book. The characters of this book are very whole and broken. They’re formed and flawed, both weak and strong. It was what made them interesting and worth reading, even fighting for. A mystery, a road trip, a romance, a tragedy all in one. This book is full of that familial feeling that you feel for someone you consider as family. A family turned wrong. This book is like family, like a sister, it’s compassionate, hopeful and devastating. Worth the read even if my heart hurts reading it.
THIS BOOK HELLA TOOK MY BREATH AWAY.
ABSOLUTE BRILLIANCE!
At first thought, Finding Paris is very much alike to Paper Towns and Looking for Alaska. After reading this book, my head was filled with thoughts on what it is about disappearing and getting lost. I don’t know why but I like these kind of books. There’s something more than just getting lost you know? Like they may get lost in different kind of ways but I think I’ve figured out why people would like to get lost, it’s not to be found, but to find their own selves. To find who they really are when they are not sure of it, to find their true selves and never get back in losing themselves ever again.
So, I'm not sure exactly what I was expecting from this book, but either way it blew those expectations out of the water. This was just such a good book and I don't know how to review it because I don't want to give away anything because I feel like going in not expecting much out of it is part of why I loved it so much; it just wow-ed me.
So, the book starts off with Leo and her sister Paris going to the Heartbreak Hotel Diner after Paris breaks up with her boyfriend. Paris dares Leo to go over and talk to the cute boy (Max Sullivan) a couple tables over. Leo brings him pie and they all get to talking. That's when Paris goes outside and never comes back setting the stage for her scavenger hunt of sorts. Leaving clues all over Vegas for Leo telling her to come and find her.
I really don't know where to start with this review so let's just jump in.
*A Few Of My Likes:
Leo - The girl who thinks she has it all figured out, until the night her life is turned upside down. I really enjoyed her and her character development. Quiet, unassuming, and rock solid, I loved that she got past her perfect facade. She is a really complex character and that comes out beautifully through the writing.
The romance - The romance is the classic movie style romance kind. I could see this easily playing out as a plot of a movie the entire time I was reading. The cute guy and pretty girl were brought together into a thrilling quest to find answers and go on a road trip while their attraction for each other grows. The deeper and more gritty reality of what is going on prevents it from being overly sweet and allows the romance to be the light part of the story. There's no insta-love happening here, despite the insta-attraction. The possibility of maybe floats through their interactions, and that's all either character can really commit to, especially once the truth is revealed.
The mystery aspect - The mystery is gripping. You'll be consumed with a need to find out Paris' secret. While it's not impossible to figure it all out, I didn't quite put all the puzzle pieces together immediately. This story is one where the journey to the destination is the entire point, so enjoy the ride.
Road trip - It does have a road trip aspect which I always love, while at the same time it's not a happy go lucky road trip book.
*A Few Of My Dislikes:
Paris - Don't get me wrong I liked Paris, I just wish she'd been in the book a little more. I think she was one of the best characters, but we only get to see her in a few parts and in Leo's memories. Especially towards the end as everything gets more frantic and then kind of slows down, I wanted to see more of Paris. In a way, this book is all about sisters but in a way that's kind of pushed off to the side too.
Max - Max was a very interesting character, a few times he kind of flip-flopped, acting completely different from how he did through the rest of the book which was kind of confusing and off-putting. I also didn't completely understand his secret stuff, I mean I understood it but it just felt awkward and almost unneeded, it didn't make the impact it was supposed I think.
A lack of emotion - Throughout the book it is kind of lacking in emotion. I didn't even notice it until I finished the book and once everything is revealed it makes sense, but I like to FEEL all the characters emotions and there was a definite lack of that.
Overall, Finding Paris was a heavily character driven book and I enjoyed that part of the book tremendously. For me, it was a favorite material that hits you right in the feels. It's very fast paced to which adds to the feeling of urgency that makes up the book. The characters of this book are very whole and broken. They’re formed and flawed, both weak and strong. It was what made them interesting and worth reading, even fighting for. A mystery, a road trip, a romance, a tragedy all in one. This book is full of that familial feeling that you feel for someone you consider as family. A family turned wrong. This book is like family, like a sister, it’s compassionate, hopeful and devastating. Worth the read even if my heart hurts reading it.
Want to read
November 17, 2014I'm guessing we're going to be looking for finding Alaska Paris in this book, readers.
March 26, 2015
SPOILER FREE
Leo is woken up by her sister, Paris, in the middle of the night because Tobias broke up with her and she needs pie ASAP. When they walk into the diner and get her pie, there's a guy. He name is Max, Leo has quite an awkward conversation with Max. Once the chat is over Leo realizes she forgot her wallet so Paris goes to the car and gets it. Little does Leo know that she's going to get ditched, by her sister.
Once Leo walks outside to try and find Paris, her car isn't there and neither is Paris. She does find is a note, and it says to come find Paris.
Things speed up and now Leo and Max are on a chase looking for more written in silver Sharpie and taped to something by a Hello Kitty Band-Aid for more clues to find Paris.
Not only is the cover pretty, but the story is beautiful too. I could never be an author because they think of twists that just blow my mind. I never expected this book to be so intense. I sat don't and read it for 3 hours straight, in one sitting. So many things are happening and you just want to find out where she is! But, I cannot believe that ending! I do not want to spoil anything, but
some characters that you expect to be normal, are not and have a dark side.
Overall, Finding Paris is a fast-paced, unexpected roller coaster that will leave you with your jaw dropping and wondering how everything turned upside-down in one chapter.
Leo is woken up by her sister, Paris, in the middle of the night because Tobias broke up with her and she needs pie ASAP. When they walk into the diner and get her pie, there's a guy. He name is Max, Leo has quite an awkward conversation with Max. Once the chat is over Leo realizes she forgot her wallet so Paris goes to the car and gets it. Little does Leo know that she's going to get ditched, by her sister.
Once Leo walks outside to try and find Paris, her car isn't there and neither is Paris. She does find is a note, and it says to come find Paris.
Things speed up and now Leo and Max are on a chase looking for more written in silver Sharpie and taped to something by a Hello Kitty Band-Aid for more clues to find Paris.
Not only is the cover pretty, but the story is beautiful too. I could never be an author because they think of twists that just blow my mind. I never expected this book to be so intense. I sat don't and read it for 3 hours straight, in one sitting. So many things are happening and you just want to find out where she is! But, I cannot believe that ending! I do not want to spoil anything, but
some characters that you expect to be normal, are not and have a dark side.
Overall, Finding Paris is a fast-paced, unexpected roller coaster that will leave you with your jaw dropping and wondering how everything turned upside-down in one chapter.
January 17, 2015
Talk about mind effed.... Review to come!
Edit: 01/16/15
You can find more of my reviews here on my blog: Take Me Away...
The beginning of this story was very sweet and though I was intrigued, I wasn't fully immersed in the story. But as it went on, things started happening and let me tell you it wasn't anything like I expected. This book turned out to be a total mind eff and I am so glad I decided to read it.
I'm not normally a fan of road trips and lately I've been reading them non-stop. I read this one because I wanted to see what the thriller part was when I saw it on Goodreads. But when I started it, there was nothing that seemed like a thriller. But as the story progressed, and Leo began to find more clues, they begin to get deeper in meaning and many different secrets are unearthed. It was then that I fell in love with this story completely.
The first thing that made me love the story was the world-building. There were so many different places they went that Preble went into 100% detail in and it made me feel as if I was right there. It made me think of why I decided to call my blog Take Me Away. I may never get to go to Vegas, but Preble Vegas to me. Including the slot machines, the heat, and all things Elvis.
I loved that the mystery part of this wasn't revealed at the very beginning. Because of this I wasn't able to figure out who the killer was. I can normally guess it before the author reveals it, but with the clues only coming every so often, it was pretty hard to guess it until each piece was unveiled. Because of this I was on the edge of my seat until what really happened came to the light. I just loved that it started out as a simple road-tripping contemp and turned into a mystery. It made the big "A ha!" moment all the more better.
I also like the characters. Preble made sure that all of them were well thought out and that they all had a meaning to the mystery. I hate when stories have too many characters and they're all different and doing different things. But this one is different. Each one has a purpose and I appreciated that.
In the end, this book was not what I thought it would be and it ended up being a pleasant surprise. I love when I can be surprised by books like this. This is my first book by Preble, but I assure you it won't be the last!
Edit: 01/16/15
You can find more of my reviews here on my blog: Take Me Away...
The beginning of this story was very sweet and though I was intrigued, I wasn't fully immersed in the story. But as it went on, things started happening and let me tell you it wasn't anything like I expected. This book turned out to be a total mind eff and I am so glad I decided to read it.
I'm not normally a fan of road trips and lately I've been reading them non-stop. I read this one because I wanted to see what the thriller part was when I saw it on Goodreads. But when I started it, there was nothing that seemed like a thriller. But as the story progressed, and Leo began to find more clues, they begin to get deeper in meaning and many different secrets are unearthed. It was then that I fell in love with this story completely.
The first thing that made me love the story was the world-building. There were so many different places they went that Preble went into 100% detail in and it made me feel as if I was right there. It made me think of why I decided to call my blog Take Me Away. I may never get to go to Vegas, but Preble Vegas to me. Including the slot machines, the heat, and all things Elvis.
I loved that the mystery part of this wasn't revealed at the very beginning. Because of this I wasn't able to figure out who the killer was. I can normally guess it before the author reveals it, but with the clues only coming every so often, it was pretty hard to guess it until each piece was unveiled. Because of this I was on the edge of my seat until what really happened came to the light. I just loved that it started out as a simple road-tripping contemp and turned into a mystery. It made the big "A ha!" moment all the more better.
I also like the characters. Preble made sure that all of them were well thought out and that they all had a meaning to the mystery. I hate when stories have too many characters and they're all different and doing different things. But this one is different. Each one has a purpose and I appreciated that.
In the end, this book was not what I thought it would be and it ended up being a pleasant surprise. I love when I can be surprised by books like this. This is my first book by Preble, but I assure you it won't be the last!
August 20, 2015
This review was originally posted on About to Read. For Fairytale fashions, reads, and more visit abouttoread.com
***
Finding Paris took me by surprise with it’s fast-paced, unputdownable nature. Sure, I was expecting a quick contemporary, but I wasn’t expecting to devour the story the way I did.
Part of the reason I was a little hesitant with this one is that I had read The Sweet Dead Life and it just wasn’t for me. There were qualities I liked about it though, and Finding Paris sounded like it would be much more up my alley, so I decided to give it a shot.
The short chapters and slight mystery involved in Paris’ scavenger hunt had me flying through the book. I wanted to know what happened and I was enjoying the writing style. Overall, it’s definitely a fun summer read, but I was disappointed in how several of the issues were handled.
Paris & Leo’s stepfather is a drunk. Their mother has taken Leo’s money out of her bank account before. Not cool at all. The mom seems to be pretty detached and puts her relationship with a drunk gambler before her children. There are also hints at sexual abuse. All of this kind of gets glossed over in the story. It’s present, it’s discussed briefly, and then we move on.
I wish we had delved into the pain, the turmoil, and got a deeper understanding of what Paris and Leo were going through. Instead these felt more like they were thrown in to move the plot the forward. We need a reason for Paris to want to leave. We need a reason for Leo to be super hardworking and motivated to get out of Vegas. Let’s make it something terrible and then not really discuss it. It’ll be an awesome plot twist.
Don’t get me wrong, I still enjoyed Finding Paris. It was a fun, light contempt (which is what I was in the mood for) and I didn’t really want to put it down. My one big gripe is that there were issues here, it could’ve been stronger than it was, and the fact that it wasn’t is disappointing to me.
***
Finding Paris took me by surprise with it’s fast-paced, unputdownable nature. Sure, I was expecting a quick contemporary, but I wasn’t expecting to devour the story the way I did.
Part of the reason I was a little hesitant with this one is that I had read The Sweet Dead Life and it just wasn’t for me. There were qualities I liked about it though, and Finding Paris sounded like it would be much more up my alley, so I decided to give it a shot.
The short chapters and slight mystery involved in Paris’ scavenger hunt had me flying through the book. I wanted to know what happened and I was enjoying the writing style. Overall, it’s definitely a fun summer read, but I was disappointed in how several of the issues were handled.
Paris & Leo’s stepfather is a drunk. Their mother has taken Leo’s money out of her bank account before. Not cool at all. The mom seems to be pretty detached and puts her relationship with a drunk gambler before her children. There are also hints at sexual abuse. All of this kind of gets glossed over in the story. It’s present, it’s discussed briefly, and then we move on.
I wish we had delved into the pain, the turmoil, and got a deeper understanding of what Paris and Leo were going through. Instead these felt more like they were thrown in to move the plot the forward. We need a reason for Paris to want to leave. We need a reason for Leo to be super hardworking and motivated to get out of Vegas. Let’s make it something terrible and then not really discuss it. It’ll be an awesome plot twist.
Don’t get me wrong, I still enjoyed Finding Paris. It was a fun, light contempt (which is what I was in the mood for) and I didn’t really want to put it down. My one big gripe is that there were issues here, it could’ve been stronger than it was, and the fact that it wasn’t is disappointing to me.
August 18, 2016
I received a free copy via Edelweiss for review purposes.
I admit that the cover for Finding Paris was what initially drew me into requesting this on Edelweiss. Yet I find myself bordering on hating this book.
The story focuses on sisters Leo and Paris and their close bond; they only have each other to rely on as their mother flits from city to city, guy to guy. They can't trust their gambling stepfather, so it's just the two of them - Leo and Paris against the world. Then Paris ditches her sister at a diner in the middle of Las Vegas with no money, no way home and with a strange guy. Then, Leo is led on a journey following cryptic messages left by Paris - but to what end?
The more this book progressed, the more absurd it became. Then at the end I was left feeling horrible because I didn't like it all that much because of that guilt-trap of an ending. I don't understand why Paris went to such lengths, there were easier, less traumatizing ways to go about such a sensitive topic.
I didn't like the characters all that much either. I was dubious of Max from the moment he offered his "help", and Paris, whilst I now understand her motives, seemed rather selfish . I enjoyed Leo as a character, her undying devotion to her sister, her dreams of leaving Las Vegas and being a doctor, but she flits from one emotion to another very quickly, and she falls for Max in an almost insta-love manner.
Overall, not a book I would personally recommend, mostly for the theatricality of it all.
I admit that the cover for Finding Paris was what initially drew me into requesting this on Edelweiss. Yet I find myself bordering on hating this book.
The story focuses on sisters Leo and Paris and their close bond; they only have each other to rely on as their mother flits from city to city, guy to guy. They can't trust their gambling stepfather, so it's just the two of them - Leo and Paris against the world. Then Paris ditches her sister at a diner in the middle of Las Vegas with no money, no way home and with a strange guy. Then, Leo is led on a journey following cryptic messages left by Paris - but to what end?
The more this book progressed, the more absurd it became. Then at the end I was left feeling horrible because I didn't like it all that much because of that guilt-trap of an ending. I don't understand why Paris went to such lengths, there were easier, less traumatizing ways to go about such a sensitive topic.
I didn't like the characters all that much either. I was dubious of Max from the moment he offered his "help", and Paris, whilst I now understand her motives, seemed rather selfish . I enjoyed Leo as a character, her undying devotion to her sister, her dreams of leaving Las Vegas and being a doctor, but she flits from one emotion to another very quickly, and she falls for Max in an almost insta-love manner.
Overall, not a book I would personally recommend, mostly for the theatricality of it all.
April 13, 2015
3.5/5
Finding Paris is a book I went in with much trepidation. Friends of mine had not enjoyed and I was obviously a little wary. However, I think lowering my expectations certainly helped me like the book. The book tells the story of Leo, whose sister abandons her at a diner and leaves her a trail of clues that will help find her. I have to say, I was a little put off by Leo's sister, Paris' behavior in the book especially because she also steals Leo's savings. How could she do this to her younger sister? But fret not, there is a purpose to everything Paris did. Paris' goal was to try and help Leo open up about the truth, and although her ways were unconventional and something that is very easy to frown upon, I understood where she was coming from. Finding Paris was a heavily character driven book and I enjoyed that part of the book tremendously. Getting to know Leo and having my heart broken at her situation was one of the highlights of Finding Paris for me. Max, a boy that Leo approaches at the diner where Paris abandons her, and who eventually helps her in her quest to find Paris, was a sweetheart of a boy. I admit, that I was initially doubtful of his intentions, and rightfully so, but he managed to sway me over. The road trip aspect of Finding Paris was another part of the book that I enjoyed. It's just not the locations that people go to on a road trip that intrigue me, but it's the character growth. Leo grew tremendously throughout the book and I loved watching her blossom as a character. The ending did come across as a bit of a surprise, but after I read the book and thought about it, there were some pretty hints scattered over the book. Overall, I thought Joy Preble's Finding Paris was a lovely story and I hope that other readers will also think so. Definitely give the book a shot.
Finding Paris is a book I went in with much trepidation. Friends of mine had not enjoyed and I was obviously a little wary. However, I think lowering my expectations certainly helped me like the book. The book tells the story of Leo, whose sister abandons her at a diner and leaves her a trail of clues that will help find her. I have to say, I was a little put off by Leo's sister, Paris' behavior in the book especially because she also steals Leo's savings. How could she do this to her younger sister? But fret not, there is a purpose to everything Paris did. Paris' goal was to try and help Leo open up about the truth, and although her ways were unconventional and something that is very easy to frown upon, I understood where she was coming from. Finding Paris was a heavily character driven book and I enjoyed that part of the book tremendously. Getting to know Leo and having my heart broken at her situation was one of the highlights of Finding Paris for me. Max, a boy that Leo approaches at the diner where Paris abandons her, and who eventually helps her in her quest to find Paris, was a sweetheart of a boy. I admit, that I was initially doubtful of his intentions, and rightfully so, but he managed to sway me over. The road trip aspect of Finding Paris was another part of the book that I enjoyed. It's just not the locations that people go to on a road trip that intrigue me, but it's the character growth. Leo grew tremendously throughout the book and I loved watching her blossom as a character. The ending did come across as a bit of a surprise, but after I read the book and thought about it, there were some pretty hints scattered over the book. Overall, I thought Joy Preble's Finding Paris was a lovely story and I hope that other readers will also think so. Definitely give the book a shot.
November 7, 2015
When I first read this story, I didn’t know what to expect. I had no idea. I didn’t even write down any predictions. I got swept up in the story I was reading. I had to know the ending and once I finished the book it was like I was ripped apart in so many ways. Betrayed. Yet by the actual end of the book, I was okay. Finding Paris ripped me apart and put me back together again.
The relationship that these two sisters have with each other is nothing but amazing because if I were any of the two sisters, I would’ve not been like them at all. What the two sisters; Leo and Paris, have done for each other… its simply astounding. I would do the exact same thing for my sister.
There is only one MC in this book, Leo, and she is so strong. But Finding Paris also focuses on Paris, and Max. I didn’t know what to think of Max. He was kind of a shady character but by the end I could tell that this one was a keeper!
Finding Paris broke my heart in so many ways. By the end of the book, you realized what has happened and that completely blindsided me. At the word on the last page though, even through all that emotional turmoil, I have a sense of feeling that if Leo and Paris were real characters, everything, in time, would turn out to be okay. Better than okay, I hope.
Now, that ending, holy SHIT. I wasn’t expecting that ending at all. Like, way to go. The plot twist carried so much emotional baggage. It was insane. Like, once I realized what had happened not only was I like, fuck. but I was also like, oh my god. this poor baby.
The writing in this book is so fluid. Its so easy to read this book, to get caught up in everything. I literally couldn’t put the book down. Not once. Finding Paris was a one way read for me. Holy smokes.
*Please Note that Finding Paris is on the trigger list due to: Rape and Sexual Abuse, Sexual Molestation, Pedophilia and Incest.
The relationship that these two sisters have with each other is nothing but amazing because if I were any of the two sisters, I would’ve not been like them at all. What the two sisters; Leo and Paris, have done for each other… its simply astounding. I would do the exact same thing for my sister.
There is only one MC in this book, Leo, and she is so strong. But Finding Paris also focuses on Paris, and Max. I didn’t know what to think of Max. He was kind of a shady character but by the end I could tell that this one was a keeper!
Finding Paris broke my heart in so many ways. By the end of the book, you realized what has happened and that completely blindsided me. At the word on the last page though, even through all that emotional turmoil, I have a sense of feeling that if Leo and Paris were real characters, everything, in time, would turn out to be okay. Better than okay, I hope.
Now, that ending, holy SHIT. I wasn’t expecting that ending at all. Like, way to go. The plot twist carried so much emotional baggage. It was insane. Like, once I realized what had happened not only was I like, fuck. but I was also like, oh my god. this poor baby.
The writing in this book is so fluid. Its so easy to read this book, to get caught up in everything. I literally couldn’t put the book down. Not once. Finding Paris was a one way read for me. Holy smokes.
*Please Note that Finding Paris is on the trigger list due to: Rape and Sexual Abuse, Sexual Molestation, Pedophilia and Incest.
July 12, 2015
Destruction isn't permanent."
This is an interesting book with a powerful statement. But it was a little off for me. normally I would LOVE this kind of book. But the jumbled beginning - I didn't feel like I got to know Paris or Leo well enough to have an emotional tie to them. I didn't feel either way about Max either, after all was said and done.
but I think it's a good book, with a good message and one that will connect and resonate with others.
This is an interesting book with a powerful statement. But it was a little off for me. normally I would LOVE this kind of book. But the jumbled beginning - I didn't feel like I got to know Paris or Leo well enough to have an emotional tie to them. I didn't feel either way about Max either, after all was said and done.
but I think it's a good book, with a good message and one that will connect and resonate with others.
April 30, 2015
This review originally appeared on Such a Novel Idea.
I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I have to say that I was drawn to this book before I even knew what it was by two things: 1) the fact that it was written by Joy Preble and 2) the cover. However, after reading what the book was about, I knew it was something I was just going to have to pick up. I got to meet Preble in 2014 and she was just a really nice, funny person. I loved her personality and it made me pick up her Sweet, Dead Life series pretty quickly. Finding Paris was such a completely opposite word from SDL that I found myself wondering how well she could do genre swapping.
And the answer is fantastically. This book is series, dark at times, and anxiety-ridden (for me anyway). You WANT to know what is happening and you clearly are only getting small bits of information at a time. Everything is not what it seems and everyone seems to have a secret in their back pocket. I pride myself on figuring out plot twists, general surprise events, and foreshadowing. And several things I did figure out in this book early on. However, the foreshadowing is done in a subtle way that allows you to not get hung up on it at the time, but to look back when you find out everything and say, "Hey... I totally see why this happened." It isn't a shock... well, it is, but it isn't something that you were left unprepared for by the author.
I read a lot of reviews for this book prior to, during, and after my own read. I can see why a lot of people loved it and a lot of people just were not a fan of how things ended up. I fell in the category of those who loved it. While I was shocked because it wasn't a conclusion I ever saw coming, it made complete sense. It made my heart ache and I just had so many emotions for these people that don't actually exist. I did not think it was something used for shock value, but evocative of this particular phenomenon. This seemed true to how people process and eventually hide or share what has happened. I do not feel like it was used and not dealt with, I thought that the journey to that point was more important than the dealing with it. That was another story for Leo and Paris, and this conclusion worked for this story.
However, I felt like the last few chapters were choppy. For 3-4 chapters, I kept thinking it was the end, only to have another chapter pop up. And each seemed clumsy and not well put together from one to the next. I understand that Preble wanted these things for the character, but I wish it would have flowed better, because it kind of took me from the high of a 5 star book. And it is for that reason my review is half a star lower.
This book is one that took me on a journey. The characters might have been on a road trip, but I was also flying through the desert, visiting the Santa Monica pier, and seeing Las Vegas through someone else's eyes. Even if I never go there, the details Preble used brought the place to life for me.
The writing in this book is superb. It will keep you going, fueling your need to know what is happening. This book is surprising, took some bold steps and made some choices that kept me guessing the whole way through. If you don't mind tough issues and want a good mystery, this road tripping book might just be for you!
I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I have to say that I was drawn to this book before I even knew what it was by two things: 1) the fact that it was written by Joy Preble and 2) the cover. However, after reading what the book was about, I knew it was something I was just going to have to pick up. I got to meet Preble in 2014 and she was just a really nice, funny person. I loved her personality and it made me pick up her Sweet, Dead Life series pretty quickly. Finding Paris was such a completely opposite word from SDL that I found myself wondering how well she could do genre swapping.
And the answer is fantastically. This book is series, dark at times, and anxiety-ridden (for me anyway). You WANT to know what is happening and you clearly are only getting small bits of information at a time. Everything is not what it seems and everyone seems to have a secret in their back pocket. I pride myself on figuring out plot twists, general surprise events, and foreshadowing. And several things I did figure out in this book early on. However, the foreshadowing is done in a subtle way that allows you to not get hung up on it at the time, but to look back when you find out everything and say, "Hey... I totally see why this happened." It isn't a shock... well, it is, but it isn't something that you were left unprepared for by the author.
I read a lot of reviews for this book prior to, during, and after my own read. I can see why a lot of people loved it and a lot of people just were not a fan of how things ended up. I fell in the category of those who loved it. While I was shocked because it wasn't a conclusion I ever saw coming, it made complete sense. It made my heart ache and I just had so many emotions for these people that don't actually exist. I did not think it was something used for shock value, but evocative of this particular phenomenon. This seemed true to how people process and eventually hide or share what has happened. I do not feel like it was used and not dealt with, I thought that the journey to that point was more important than the dealing with it. That was another story for Leo and Paris, and this conclusion worked for this story.
However, I felt like the last few chapters were choppy. For 3-4 chapters, I kept thinking it was the end, only to have another chapter pop up. And each seemed clumsy and not well put together from one to the next. I understand that Preble wanted these things for the character, but I wish it would have flowed better, because it kind of took me from the high of a 5 star book. And it is for that reason my review is half a star lower.
This book is one that took me on a journey. The characters might have been on a road trip, but I was also flying through the desert, visiting the Santa Monica pier, and seeing Las Vegas through someone else's eyes. Even if I never go there, the details Preble used brought the place to life for me.
The writing in this book is superb. It will keep you going, fueling your need to know what is happening. This book is surprising, took some bold steps and made some choices that kept me guessing the whole way through. If you don't mind tough issues and want a good mystery, this road tripping book might just be for you!
February 11, 2016
Mediocrity mediocrity everywhere. For a story that is supposed to compare to Thirteen Reasons Why, Finding Paris was deeply underwhelming, and this might only be me, but I didn't feel like I connected to any character, despite the fact that they were quite well-written. The book opened beautifully, and personally, I loved the way Leo and Paris stuck to each other no matter what. The two sisters seemed willing to do anything for each other, and older sister Paris takes advantage of this fact, leading Leo on a wild goose chase with Max, a stranger they meet at a diner. The book deals with important issues, but that mostly felt like a plot device and a way to move the story along. I was disappointed by many of the actions Leo took, and they felt a little unrealistic--I mean, who the fuck goes on a road trip with a complete stranger?! That's right, NO ONE.
All in all, this is a book that provides minimum suspense, but the mystery surrounding it was very well-weaved. It's also a quick read so, if you're into this kind of a thing, you really don't have much to lose. In spite of my semi-happy response to this book, I really did love the writing, so I'll definitely be checking out Joy Preble's future releases!
I received this book for free from Balzer & Bray through Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. This, however, does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
All in all, this is a book that provides minimum suspense, but the mystery surrounding it was very well-weaved. It's also a quick read so, if you're into this kind of a thing, you really don't have much to lose. In spite of my semi-happy response to this book, I really did love the writing, so I'll definitely be checking out Joy Preble's future releases!
I received this book for free from Balzer & Bray through Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. This, however, does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
October 27, 2015
I've been stucked here for 10 minutes lost on how to start writing my thoughts after finishing this book. Finding Paris was an okay read however its a bit tad slow and just you know really okay.
The thing that kept me on reading this was the mystery of where Paris is. Plus what really happened to start this chase and looking. The concept of the story was actually good however theexcution of it came a bit slow and boring. I'm looking for more action and adrenaline rushing scenes or even more road-tripping. The characters are okay.
Can't say more other than its an okay read. Nothing that extraordinary but an okay YA read nonetheless.
*Advance reader copy provided by Harper Collins for review*
The thing that kept me on reading this was the mystery of where Paris is. Plus what really happened to start this chase and looking. The concept of the story was actually good however theexcution of it came a bit slow and boring. I'm looking for more action and adrenaline rushing scenes or even more road-tripping. The characters are okay.
Can't say more other than its an okay read. Nothing that extraordinary but an okay YA read nonetheless.
*Advance reader copy provided by Harper Collins for review*
February 2, 2022
Okay. Let's be clear on one thing. I bought this book years ago and it's been sitting on my shelves for years, unread. I mainly bought it because of the word Paris on the cover (which I am obsessed with) but it turns out Paris is a character's name and not the city. Lol, jokes on me for not reading the back cover. Anyways, I read about 165 pages with less than a 100 pages left to finish the book, but I never got around to finishing it. So I decided for 2022 to finally pick it up, re-read and finish it.
Maybe this book was meant to be read by a younger version of me. But as a 22-year-old, I did not like this very much. It was okay. I got immersed in the story and actually finished most of it in a day, but for the sake of finishing rather than loving the story. I need to also put it out there that this book contains themes such as sexual abuse, which I think is a trigger warning that should be talked about more regarding this book before diving right into it.
The story was very predictable yet with twists that make it still interesting to want to read on. You won't fall in love with the characters, but might connect with them on some aspects. Don't expect going into this expecting a very deep story. It's not shallow but it's also very fast so you feel like you touch upon all topics from the surface, never really diving into it.
If you go into this expecting a huge mystery and a road trip, you might find some of that in the book. But this is mainly about siblings and the lengths they would go to for each other. Of course there's also some romance in the mix, but again the real love that's the focus of the book is between two sisters; Paris and Leo. And I have to say, their bond is what kept me reading, flipping page after page.
Maybe this book was meant to be read by a younger version of me. But as a 22-year-old, I did not like this very much. It was okay. I got immersed in the story and actually finished most of it in a day, but for the sake of finishing rather than loving the story. I need to also put it out there that this book contains themes such as sexual abuse, which I think is a trigger warning that should be talked about more regarding this book before diving right into it.
The story was very predictable yet with twists that make it still interesting to want to read on. You won't fall in love with the characters, but might connect with them on some aspects. Don't expect going into this expecting a very deep story. It's not shallow but it's also very fast so you feel like you touch upon all topics from the surface, never really diving into it.
If you go into this expecting a huge mystery and a road trip, you might find some of that in the book. But this is mainly about siblings and the lengths they would go to for each other. Of course there's also some romance in the mix, but again the real love that's the focus of the book is between two sisters; Paris and Leo. And I have to say, their bond is what kept me reading, flipping page after page.
February 19, 2016
Leo and Paris were sisters, only one year apart in age. They were opposites, yet did almost everything together. Leo was the smart one, the one who loved math and science and wanted to be a doctor. Paris was the artsy, wistful optimist, always having a smile on her face and dreaming about something fun. One night, they went to the restaurant where Paris worked, and ordered a coconut cream pie. That was the first time that Leo met Max, and it was also the last time that she saw Paris. Leo quickly found out that Paris had left her notes, and wanted her to go on a scavenger hunt with Max to find her. The notes were cryptic, and caused Leo to think back to her past, hoping that the clues would eventually lead her to Paris.
If you like books that are mostly contemporary, with a couple of dark and mysterious twists/turns, this will be a good book for you. I must admit, when I read the beginning, I only thought that it was okay. I was considering giving it 2.5-3 stars. It just wasn’t grabbing my attention. Sure, it was cute, but nothing really stood out to me. With that being said, I did like the writing style, and wanted to know what happened at the end, so I continued to read.
I am very happy about my decision because the last 30ish percent of the book was great! There were a ton of twists and turns that I did not see coming. I was able to guess a couple, but the majority were big surprises to me. Also, I will say this- the very end of the book had a huge plot twist containing a very serious subject. I am not going to say what it was, for fear of spoiling it, but I do think that it is important to mention.
Overall, I enjoyed Finding Paris, but I wasn’t thrilled with it. I give it 3.5stars.
If you like books that are mostly contemporary, with a couple of dark and mysterious twists/turns, this will be a good book for you. I must admit, when I read the beginning, I only thought that it was okay. I was considering giving it 2.5-3 stars. It just wasn’t grabbing my attention. Sure, it was cute, but nothing really stood out to me. With that being said, I did like the writing style, and wanted to know what happened at the end, so I continued to read.
I am very happy about my decision because the last 30ish percent of the book was great! There were a ton of twists and turns that I did not see coming. I was able to guess a couple, but the majority were big surprises to me. Also, I will say this- the very end of the book had a huge plot twist containing a very serious subject. I am not going to say what it was, for fear of spoiling it, but I do think that it is important to mention.
Overall, I enjoyed Finding Paris, but I wasn’t thrilled with it. I give it 3.5stars.
July 27, 2015
Paris and her sister Leo are very close, so close that there isn't anything they wouldn't do for each other. I guess there is little that is better than the bonds between two sisters. Paris is what I would call a dreamer; Leo is more the planner. Paris wants to create beautiful things; Leo wants to become a doctor. Very different goals in life don't distance these sisters.
One night Paris wakes her sister Leo in the middle of the night to just take off a diner where Leo sees a cute boy and approaches him by taking him some pie. This seems out of character for Leo, or at least that was the sense I got even early on in the book. Well, after Leo introduces Max to her sister, next thing you know Leo turns around and POOF! Her sister is gone, nowhere to be found...unless you take a road trip with a boy you just met! And why would Max take a strange girl to find her sister? Why would a girl go with a stranger to drive across the country? They do have cryptic notes to follow but they always seem to take them on a wild goose chase. Thus ensues the mystery of where is Paris and what is really going on?
Recommendation: I definitely recommend this one. It's cute, easy and quick to read, and it offers a little of everything: mystery, familial relationships, family dynamics, romance, and more.
One night Paris wakes her sister Leo in the middle of the night to just take off a diner where Leo sees a cute boy and approaches him by taking him some pie. This seems out of character for Leo, or at least that was the sense I got even early on in the book. Well, after Leo introduces Max to her sister, next thing you know Leo turns around and POOF! Her sister is gone, nowhere to be found...unless you take a road trip with a boy you just met! And why would Max take a strange girl to find her sister? Why would a girl go with a stranger to drive across the country? They do have cryptic notes to follow but they always seem to take them on a wild goose chase. Thus ensues the mystery of where is Paris and what is really going on?
Recommendation: I definitely recommend this one. It's cute, easy and quick to read, and it offers a little of everything: mystery, familial relationships, family dynamics, romance, and more.
May 19, 2015
At A Glance
Genre: Young Adult; Contemporary
Love Triangle/Insta Love?: nope.
Cliff Hanger: nope.
Rating: 4 Stars
Score Sheet
All out of ten
Cover: 8
Plot: 8
Characters: 7
World Building: 7
Flow: 8
Series Congruity: n/a
Writing: 7
Ending: 8
Total: 8
In Depth
Best Part: Vegas references :D
Worst Part: The "twist" :(
Overall Feels Felt: Oh a mystery; Vegas!; Oh no :(
Conclusion
Continuing the Series: n/a
Recommending: yes
Misc.: Trigger Warning; Rape.
Short Review: Well, this book is a emotional roller coaster. First, i love the scavenger hunt the MC has to go on to find Paris. I was torn into feelsville at about the 3/4ths spot. And the "twist" at the end! Ah. I was feeling!!! A great book for sure.
Review In GIF Form
Genre: Young Adult; Contemporary
Love Triangle/Insta Love?: nope.
Cliff Hanger: nope.
Rating: 4 Stars
Score Sheet
All out of ten
Cover: 8
Plot: 8
Characters: 7
World Building: 7
Flow: 8
Series Congruity: n/a
Writing: 7
Ending: 8
Total: 8
In Depth
Best Part: Vegas references :D
Worst Part: The "twist" :(
Overall Feels Felt: Oh a mystery; Vegas!; Oh no :(
Conclusion
Continuing the Series: n/a
Recommending: yes
Misc.: Trigger Warning; Rape.
Short Review: Well, this book is a emotional roller coaster. First, i love the scavenger hunt the MC has to go on to find Paris. I was torn into feelsville at about the 3/4ths spot. And the "twist" at the end! Ah. I was feeling!!! A great book for sure.
Review In GIF Form
May 26, 2016
If you stop reading this without knowing what happened to Paris I think you should really start seeing a psychologist. SRSLY HAHAHA I enjoyed this so much!! It’s fast-paced, witty (really) and entertaining! No boring parts and kept me on the hook till 5am in the morning. It makes me want to go on a road trip! I just went to LAS VEGAS AND L.A. THANK U BOOK. Finding Paris is a story with great depth touching on family, friendships, and romance. It hit me so bad. I fell in love with the characters!!! Max, Leo and Paris ugh I love all of you!! I wanna be Leo all of a sudden, can someone please leave clues outside my bedroom door and let me figure out too what the hell is going on!! Damn books that make me figure something out. PLUS IT HAS A LOT OF SCIENCE STUFF IN IT WHICH MADE ME LOVE IT EVEN MORE. OHMYGOD. APPRECIATING HOW SMART THE AUTHOR IS. HER WRITING STYLE IS TERRIFIC!
May 1, 2015
This was some serious fuckery. I'm still a bit floored by the reveal.
Love love loved the idea of this. It's a mystery slash scavenger hunt and I was on board within one chapter. I liked being in Leo's head and of course Max was adorable and that ending...there aren't words.
This absolutely was not what I was expecting and I really enjoyed every page of it.
**Huge thanks to Balzer+Bray and Edelweiss for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review**
Love love loved the idea of this. It's a mystery slash scavenger hunt and I was on board within one chapter. I liked being in Leo's head and of course Max was adorable and that ending...there aren't words.
This absolutely was not what I was expecting and I really enjoyed every page of it.
**Huge thanks to Balzer+Bray and Edelweiss for providing the arc in exchange for an honest review**
January 11, 2024
this book had a lot of potential but it was executed pretty clumsily
October 25, 2015
This review can also be found on Key to Book City, check it out for more!
Road trip novels with beautiful covers that just make me want to scream the characters' destination? Joy Preble truly gave us that. And by the way, in case you haven't noticed already, I do enjoy beginning my reviews off with rhetorical questions that not everyone can answer since not everyone read the book. Hah. But seriously, back to matter that we're currently facing, Finding Paris is my pleasure. I'm not feeling guilt in any way, so I won't call it my guilty pleasure, but I'll tell you that it's one of the best books of the summer. Just get ready to adore it and find a million specks of beauty that's pretty difficult to find anywhere else.
HarperTeen made me fall in love this book and its cover from the winter of this year. When I first spotted it, I knew that I needed it right away before I even read its summary. You may not be a believer of solemn love at first sight, but it surely does happen with and in books. This is a literature masterpiece that I'm so thankful to have read in a matter of hours.
There are points that come around that will remind you of John Green and Jay Asher's writing, two talented men whose books I adore. Paper Towns and Thirteen Reasons Why were very similar, and they click with this, but it hadn't bothered me because it was its own kind of style that was very interesting and cute.
This involves sisterhood, first love and a theme of having a basic tough life. The title does make sense, as Leo, the main character, is trying to find her sister, Paris, who is really weird and leaves clues all over the place. One minute they're having coffee in a Las Vegas diner, and the next Paris leaves, taking the car and all of the money that Leo had, leaving her stranded. With the help of a super hot guy who is pretty bored at this late time named Max, Leo goes out to find her sister, who may not be so lost in the world as Leo herself is.
It's a very easy-going story. Things flow well together, the romance is the perfect touch for a teenage girl to squeal and adore, and you will seriously love Joy Preble's writing. I honestly can say that it was worth the wait, to wait for this book to be published and released, released into the world and into my heart. Books like this don't show up on your doorstep quite often, I must say.
Even though I read this novel ages ago in the midst of summer vacation, I still remember the plot perfectly, as well as the characters. Paris, Leo and Max were adorable, and the way their stories flowed with each other's was unique. And did I mention that the romance between Leo and Max was adorable? There's a beach scene that'll have you going gaga. Good luck with your feels, because you better hold on them, they'll explode and go out of control!
Finding Paris is a memorable, riveting yet pretty well-used novel that is found all over the place but has its own tweak and quirk to it that makes me the happiest reader alive. Brace yourself for a romance that'll make you squirm, because you want it in your life, and squeal because Max Sullivan is just too sexy. It's your call, but I think the sisterhood, issues and girl power that Preble uses is just calling you.
Road trip novels with beautiful covers that just make me want to scream the characters' destination? Joy Preble truly gave us that. And by the way, in case you haven't noticed already, I do enjoy beginning my reviews off with rhetorical questions that not everyone can answer since not everyone read the book. Hah. But seriously, back to matter that we're currently facing, Finding Paris is my pleasure. I'm not feeling guilt in any way, so I won't call it my guilty pleasure, but I'll tell you that it's one of the best books of the summer. Just get ready to adore it and find a million specks of beauty that's pretty difficult to find anywhere else.
HarperTeen made me fall in love this book and its cover from the winter of this year. When I first spotted it, I knew that I needed it right away before I even read its summary. You may not be a believer of solemn love at first sight, but it surely does happen with and in books. This is a literature masterpiece that I'm so thankful to have read in a matter of hours.
There are points that come around that will remind you of John Green and Jay Asher's writing, two talented men whose books I adore. Paper Towns and Thirteen Reasons Why were very similar, and they click with this, but it hadn't bothered me because it was its own kind of style that was very interesting and cute.
"Things happen like this, I know. One minute you're whistling along and the next, life has gone off-kilter. The trick is to shift with it, like a computer resettling after an error. I size Max Sullivan and decide that he is not Hannibal Lecter." (39)
This involves sisterhood, first love and a theme of having a basic tough life. The title does make sense, as Leo, the main character, is trying to find her sister, Paris, who is really weird and leaves clues all over the place. One minute they're having coffee in a Las Vegas diner, and the next Paris leaves, taking the car and all of the money that Leo had, leaving her stranded. With the help of a super hot guy who is pretty bored at this late time named Max, Leo goes out to find her sister, who may not be so lost in the world as Leo herself is.
It's a very easy-going story. Things flow well together, the romance is the perfect touch for a teenage girl to squeal and adore, and you will seriously love Joy Preble's writing. I honestly can say that it was worth the wait, to wait for this book to be published and released, released into the world and into my heart. Books like this don't show up on your doorstep quite often, I must say.
"We are like one of those still life paintings. I think absurdly. Mother. Daughter. Strange boy. Glass of wine. A million unsaid things." (55)
Even though I read this novel ages ago in the midst of summer vacation, I still remember the plot perfectly, as well as the characters. Paris, Leo and Max were adorable, and the way their stories flowed with each other's was unique. And did I mention that the romance between Leo and Max was adorable? There's a beach scene that'll have you going gaga. Good luck with your feels, because you better hold on them, they'll explode and go out of control!
Finding Paris is a memorable, riveting yet pretty well-used novel that is found all over the place but has its own tweak and quirk to it that makes me the happiest reader alive. Brace yourself for a romance that'll make you squirm, because you want it in your life, and squeal because Max Sullivan is just too sexy. It's your call, but I think the sisterhood, issues and girl power that Preble uses is just calling you.
April 18, 2015
So, I'm not sure exactly what I was expecting from this book but either way it blew those expectations out of the water. This was just such a good book and I don't know how to review it because I don't want to give away anything because I feel like going in not expecting much out of it is part of why I loved it so much; it wowed me.
So, the book starts off with Leo and her sister Paris going to the Heartbreak Hotel Diner after Paris breaks up with her boyfriend. Paris dares Leo to go over and talk to the cute boy a couple tables over(Max Sullivan) Leo brings him pie and they all get to talking. That's when Paris goes outside and never comes back setting the stage for her scavenger hunt of sorts. Leaving clues all over Vegas for Leo telling her to come and find her.
I really don't know where to start with this review so let's just jump in.
A Few Of My Favorite Things:
Leo - Not only do I love her name, but I loved her character and her voice. She's kind of cynical but kind of not, she wants so much from the world but isn't sure she deserves it. She is a really complex character and that comes out beautifully through the writing.
The romance - I'm sure we all know how tricky romance can be in a book that takes place over only a few nights, but this book doesn't even verge on insta love. It's all very slow and almost awkward, very reserved, but there just enough for the reader to fall for it.
The mystery aspect - I wasn't expecting this to feel so much like a mystery book, but it did. You never quite know what's going on, you have guesses, and still it manages to be at least a little shocking at the end, even when you've figured it out.
Deeper issues - Without going into details this book does handle some darker things, it's not all just a road trip and scavenger hunt, it's definitely darker than it may first appear.
Road trip - It does have a road trip aspect which I always love, while at the same time it's not a happy go lucky road trip book.
A Few Of My Mot So Favorite Things:
Paris - Don't get me wrong I loved Paris, I just wish she'd been in the book a little more. I think she was one of the best characters, but we only get to see her in a few parts and in Leo's memories. Especially towards the end as everything gets more frantic and then kind of slows down, I wanted to see more of Paris. In a way, this book is all about sisters but in a way that's kind of pushed off to the side too.
Max - Max was a very interesting character, a few times he kind of flip-flopped, acting completely different from how he did through the rest of the book which was kind of confusing and off-putting. I also didn't completely understand his secret stuff, I mean I understood it but it just felt awkward and almost unneeded, it didn't make the impact it was supposed I think.
A lack of emotion - Throughout most the book there is kind of a lack of emotion. I didn't even notice it until I finished the book and once everything is revealed it makes sense, but I like to FEEL all the characters emotions and there was a definite lack of that.
Overall: I thought this was a really really good book that hits you right in the feels. It's very fast paced to which adds to the feeling of urgency that makes up the book. I do wish there'd been more with Paris, and the very end, after the climax, was a tad disappointing, I think it could have made a bigger impact, but I still really liked the book. It's full of very complex characters, pretty badass writing, and a very intriguing plot.
Would I Recommend This? Yes.
To Whom? Let's say fans of Lauren Oliver's Vanishing Girls and E. Lockhart's We Were Liars
Will I read more from this author(or series)? Probably.
This review first appeared @ The Story Goes...
So, the book starts off with Leo and her sister Paris going to the Heartbreak Hotel Diner after Paris breaks up with her boyfriend. Paris dares Leo to go over and talk to the cute boy a couple tables over(Max Sullivan) Leo brings him pie and they all get to talking. That's when Paris goes outside and never comes back setting the stage for her scavenger hunt of sorts. Leaving clues all over Vegas for Leo telling her to come and find her.
I really don't know where to start with this review so let's just jump in.
A Few Of My Favorite Things:
Leo - Not only do I love her name, but I loved her character and her voice. She's kind of cynical but kind of not, she wants so much from the world but isn't sure she deserves it. She is a really complex character and that comes out beautifully through the writing.
The romance - I'm sure we all know how tricky romance can be in a book that takes place over only a few nights, but this book doesn't even verge on insta love. It's all very slow and almost awkward, very reserved, but there just enough for the reader to fall for it.
The mystery aspect - I wasn't expecting this to feel so much like a mystery book, but it did. You never quite know what's going on, you have guesses, and still it manages to be at least a little shocking at the end, even when you've figured it out.
Deeper issues - Without going into details this book does handle some darker things, it's not all just a road trip and scavenger hunt, it's definitely darker than it may first appear.
Road trip - It does have a road trip aspect which I always love, while at the same time it's not a happy go lucky road trip book.
A Few Of My Mot So Favorite Things:
Paris - Don't get me wrong I loved Paris, I just wish she'd been in the book a little more. I think she was one of the best characters, but we only get to see her in a few parts and in Leo's memories. Especially towards the end as everything gets more frantic and then kind of slows down, I wanted to see more of Paris. In a way, this book is all about sisters but in a way that's kind of pushed off to the side too.
Max - Max was a very interesting character, a few times he kind of flip-flopped, acting completely different from how he did through the rest of the book which was kind of confusing and off-putting. I also didn't completely understand his secret stuff, I mean I understood it but it just felt awkward and almost unneeded, it didn't make the impact it was supposed I think.
A lack of emotion - Throughout most the book there is kind of a lack of emotion. I didn't even notice it until I finished the book and once everything is revealed it makes sense, but I like to FEEL all the characters emotions and there was a definite lack of that.
Overall: I thought this was a really really good book that hits you right in the feels. It's very fast paced to which adds to the feeling of urgency that makes up the book. I do wish there'd been more with Paris, and the very end, after the climax, was a tad disappointing, I think it could have made a bigger impact, but I still really liked the book. It's full of very complex characters, pretty badass writing, and a very intriguing plot.
Would I Recommend This? Yes.
To Whom? Let's say fans of Lauren Oliver's Vanishing Girls and E. Lockhart's We Were Liars
Will I read more from this author(or series)? Probably.
This review first appeared @ The Story Goes...
May 7, 2015
Title: Finding Paris
Author: Joy Preble
Age Group: Teen/Young Adult
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Series: N/A
Star Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars
This book was given to me by the publisher, Balzer and Bray, through Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review--thank you so much!
Lately, I've been getting into contemporary fiction--it's a genre I've grown to enjoy (dare I say, love?) as much as any high fantasy novel. And I'm happy to report to you guys that 2015 seems to be a great year for contemporary young adult fiction. This is Joy Preble's contemporary fiction debut. I've had my eye on her Anastasia series for a while now, so when I saw that this was up for grabs, I went for it, letting my curiosity lead me.
I love novels about family; in particular, married couples, and sibling relationships. Leonora aka Leo Hollings and her sister, Paris, are complete opposites. Paris is the social butterfly, the life of the party, flighty and beautiful, magnetic and compelling. Leo, on the other hand, is the go-getter. The straight shooter, the would-be doctor, science fanatic. Two sides of the same coin, and there's no one they trust more than one another.
That is, until the night Paris disappears, leaving Leo in a diner in the middle of Vegas at four in the morning. Led by a mysterious set of cryptic, vague clues, she meets Max Sullivan--a stranger, an acquaintance forged by a piece of bad coconut cream pie. Feeling she has no one to trust, Leo and Max set off to try and find Paris. And in the process, discover themselves, and the fact that even the most unassuming people have their secrets.
I really enjoyed this book. It was nice getting inside Leo's head. The girl who thinks she has it all figured out, until the night her life is turned upside down. I really enjoyed her, and her character development. Quiet, unassuming, and rock solid, I loved that you got past her perfect facade. Our image is so important to us when we're young--we all want to be seen in a certain way. I loved that she was real, and flawed, and utterly beautiful. And then there's Paris, her sister, a figure you only really interact with in Leo's memories, a faint presence of the past always on her mind. And then Max, the boy that Leo may or may not be falling for, who has more secrets of his own than he's willing to really admit, but truly wants Leo to be happy. Leo's family, too, were complex and dynamic. Not really likable, but definitely able to leave an impression on the reader.
The pacing was breakneck--I couldn't put it down, once I began to try piecing together Paris's disappearance. I loved the way the book went--I was expecting it to go one direction, but it completely reversed, and I didn't see it coming! I loved the twists that this book contained. A lovely tale of road trips, sisterhood, cute boys, and self-discovery, but what really sold me on this book was the explosive ending.
This book was wonderful, it really was, but at times, it just seemed like the journey Leo goes on gets a little out of control, and it didn't make sense to me that Leo was directed away. (You'll see in the book!) The bottom line: An engaging, sensitive contemporary debut, I loved Finding Paris--one of my favorite contemporary books of the year! Next on deck: Every Last Promise by Kristin Halbrook!
literatureobsessed.blogspot.com
Author: Joy Preble
Age Group: Teen/Young Adult
Genre: Contemporary Fiction
Series: N/A
Star Rating: 4 out of 5 Stars
This book was given to me by the publisher, Balzer and Bray, through Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review--thank you so much!
Lately, I've been getting into contemporary fiction--it's a genre I've grown to enjoy (dare I say, love?) as much as any high fantasy novel. And I'm happy to report to you guys that 2015 seems to be a great year for contemporary young adult fiction. This is Joy Preble's contemporary fiction debut. I've had my eye on her Anastasia series for a while now, so when I saw that this was up for grabs, I went for it, letting my curiosity lead me.
I love novels about family; in particular, married couples, and sibling relationships. Leonora aka Leo Hollings and her sister, Paris, are complete opposites. Paris is the social butterfly, the life of the party, flighty and beautiful, magnetic and compelling. Leo, on the other hand, is the go-getter. The straight shooter, the would-be doctor, science fanatic. Two sides of the same coin, and there's no one they trust more than one another.
That is, until the night Paris disappears, leaving Leo in a diner in the middle of Vegas at four in the morning. Led by a mysterious set of cryptic, vague clues, she meets Max Sullivan--a stranger, an acquaintance forged by a piece of bad coconut cream pie. Feeling she has no one to trust, Leo and Max set off to try and find Paris. And in the process, discover themselves, and the fact that even the most unassuming people have their secrets.
I really enjoyed this book. It was nice getting inside Leo's head. The girl who thinks she has it all figured out, until the night her life is turned upside down. I really enjoyed her, and her character development. Quiet, unassuming, and rock solid, I loved that you got past her perfect facade. Our image is so important to us when we're young--we all want to be seen in a certain way. I loved that she was real, and flawed, and utterly beautiful. And then there's Paris, her sister, a figure you only really interact with in Leo's memories, a faint presence of the past always on her mind. And then Max, the boy that Leo may or may not be falling for, who has more secrets of his own than he's willing to really admit, but truly wants Leo to be happy. Leo's family, too, were complex and dynamic. Not really likable, but definitely able to leave an impression on the reader.
The pacing was breakneck--I couldn't put it down, once I began to try piecing together Paris's disappearance. I loved the way the book went--I was expecting it to go one direction, but it completely reversed, and I didn't see it coming! I loved the twists that this book contained. A lovely tale of road trips, sisterhood, cute boys, and self-discovery, but what really sold me on this book was the explosive ending.
This book was wonderful, it really was, but at times, it just seemed like the journey Leo goes on gets a little out of control, and it didn't make sense to me that Leo was directed away. (You'll see in the book!) The bottom line: An engaging, sensitive contemporary debut, I loved Finding Paris--one of my favorite contemporary books of the year! Next on deck: Every Last Promise by Kristin Halbrook!
literatureobsessed.blogspot.com
January 30, 2015
I received Finding Paris by Joy Preble from the program, Around The World ARC Tours where you can get ARCS to read and review, and then pass on to the next person.
Finding Paris was amazing the whole way through. The characters were great, the plot was intense with all its plot twists I found myself never wanting to put the book down. In the very beginning we meet sisters Leo and Paris. First off I love the way they are introduced, with Paris waking Leo up in the middle of the night for pie because of a boy. It just showed their character and I found it very interesting.
When Tommy is first introduced, there was not anything I felt was strange about him. He just seemed like a normal drunken stepfather, this is really common in books so I did not think anything of it. I immediately loved Max when he came into the picture. The way Leo approached him with pie in hand, it was incredibly cute and I loved it.
I obviously already knew that Paris was going to disappear because it reveals that to us in the synopsis but I was still confused when it happened. The first not said something like he made me do it, and I kept trying to figure out who ‘he’ was but I did not start figuring it out who it was until the end of the book. Paris leaving almost was a good thing though because it really brought Leo and Max together for the better. The two had their ups and downs yes but they had just met, they cannot be expected to love everything about each other right away. So the few tiffs they had were to be expected.
The ending completely threw me! I was definitely not expecting what happened. I read the few pages that the secret came out on and said out loud, “plot twist,” everyone around me was confused but it made sense to me. In the end I fell more in love with the bond that Paris and Leo had for each other, and what lengths they were willing to go to for each other. I have always wanted a sister so I could have that kind of bond with someone.
Finding Paris was amazing the whole way through. The characters were great, the plot was intense with all its plot twists I found myself never wanting to put the book down. In the very beginning we meet sisters Leo and Paris. First off I love the way they are introduced, with Paris waking Leo up in the middle of the night for pie because of a boy. It just showed their character and I found it very interesting.
When Tommy is first introduced, there was not anything I felt was strange about him. He just seemed like a normal drunken stepfather, this is really common in books so I did not think anything of it. I immediately loved Max when he came into the picture. The way Leo approached him with pie in hand, it was incredibly cute and I loved it.
I obviously already knew that Paris was going to disappear because it reveals that to us in the synopsis but I was still confused when it happened. The first not said something like he made me do it, and I kept trying to figure out who ‘he’ was but I did not start figuring it out who it was until the end of the book. Paris leaving almost was a good thing though because it really brought Leo and Max together for the better. The two had their ups and downs yes but they had just met, they cannot be expected to love everything about each other right away. So the few tiffs they had were to be expected.
The ending completely threw me! I was definitely not expecting what happened. I read the few pages that the secret came out on and said out loud, “plot twist,” everyone around me was confused but it made sense to me. In the end I fell more in love with the bond that Paris and Leo had for each other, and what lengths they were willing to go to for each other. I have always wanted a sister so I could have that kind of bond with someone.
November 14, 2014
I love the road trip genre, I love YA romance, and I love sister/family stories. FINDING PARIS, has all of these things (Yay!), and so much more.
When Leo's beloved and free-spirited sister Paris runs away (or is kidnapped - did I mention there is mystery here too?) she drops everything to find her. Paris seems a fragile soul, and Leo will do anything to protect her. When Leo finds a clue taped to the leg of an Elvis statue (did I mention that the book is also very funny?), so begins both a literal road trip from Vegas to California and a winding, twisting journey through the dark corners and bright spots of Leo and Paris's past.
Along for the ride is Max, who, due to a fateful slice of coconut cream pie, finds himself enmeshed in Leo's quest. He's just about the perfect boy (or is he?). I really loved this guy and the metamorphosis of this relationship, so believable considering Leo's distrust of all things romantic.
No spoilers but the end was not what I expected, and if you have questions as you read, trust me -- all will be explained in the end. Preble's writing here is SPOT ON -- beautiful, spare, humorous, evocative. The characters are well drawn and I found myself absolutely loving them, warts and all. Even the characters I felt compelled to hate weren't presented in black and white -- all bad or all good. They have reasons (even if bad ones), they have shame, they have regret. This sort of complexity isn't found enough in YA, in my opinion.
I will go out on a limb here and say that this is Joy Preble's breakout novel. It was satisfying and sad and hopeful and relatable in a way that reminded me of Laurie Halse Anderson or Gayle Forman. It's been a while since I've read a book in less than 24 hours -- this was the one.
Buy it, read it, grab a box of Kleenex. I absolutely loved it.
When Leo's beloved and free-spirited sister Paris runs away (or is kidnapped - did I mention there is mystery here too?) she drops everything to find her. Paris seems a fragile soul, and Leo will do anything to protect her. When Leo finds a clue taped to the leg of an Elvis statue (did I mention that the book is also very funny?), so begins both a literal road trip from Vegas to California and a winding, twisting journey through the dark corners and bright spots of Leo and Paris's past.
Along for the ride is Max, who, due to a fateful slice of coconut cream pie, finds himself enmeshed in Leo's quest. He's just about the perfect boy (or is he?). I really loved this guy and the metamorphosis of this relationship, so believable considering Leo's distrust of all things romantic.
No spoilers but the end was not what I expected, and if you have questions as you read, trust me -- all will be explained in the end. Preble's writing here is SPOT ON -- beautiful, spare, humorous, evocative. The characters are well drawn and I found myself absolutely loving them, warts and all. Even the characters I felt compelled to hate weren't presented in black and white -- all bad or all good. They have reasons (even if bad ones), they have shame, they have regret. This sort of complexity isn't found enough in YA, in my opinion.
I will go out on a limb here and say that this is Joy Preble's breakout novel. It was satisfying and sad and hopeful and relatable in a way that reminded me of Laurie Halse Anderson or Gayle Forman. It's been a while since I've read a book in less than 24 hours -- this was the one.
Buy it, read it, grab a box of Kleenex. I absolutely loved it.
April 16, 2015
Original review can be found at http://kristineandterri.blogspot.ca/2...
2.5 stars
I received an advanced readers copy from the publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
I'll start with the positives of this book. It was an extremely easy book to get through and providing you have the time it can be done in one sitting. The writing was good which also made finishing the book quickly an easy thing to do.
But...
I wasn't a big fan of the story. It took on too much of the artificial feel just like the setting it took place in. The big turning point in the story was a very serious one but I didn't feel like it was really dealt with. It was glossed over without much result. Perhaps it is because of the demographic that this book is aimed towards but I didn't think that it really worked. I'm not sure if there was suppose to be a plot twist or a shocking turn in the story but I saw it coming a mile away. The persons name was mentioned way too many times throughout the story for it not to be obvious. I won't mention the other "shocker" for fear of giving out spoilers but it wasn't a surprise to me either.
My guess is that the younger readers of this genre may like the book a little better than I did. I just wished for a little more when dealing with such a serious and relevant topic.
2.5 stars
I received an advanced readers copy from the publisher via Edelweiss in exchange for an honest review. Thank you!
I'll start with the positives of this book. It was an extremely easy book to get through and providing you have the time it can be done in one sitting. The writing was good which also made finishing the book quickly an easy thing to do.
But...
I wasn't a big fan of the story. It took on too much of the artificial feel just like the setting it took place in. The big turning point in the story was a very serious one but I didn't feel like it was really dealt with. It was glossed over without much result. Perhaps it is because of the demographic that this book is aimed towards but I didn't think that it really worked. I'm not sure if there was suppose to be a plot twist or a shocking turn in the story but I saw it coming a mile away. The persons name was mentioned way too many times throughout the story for it not to be obvious. I won't mention the other "shocker" for fear of giving out spoilers but it wasn't a surprise to me either.
My guess is that the younger readers of this genre may like the book a little better than I did. I just wished for a little more when dealing with such a serious and relevant topic.
November 15, 2014
Leo's sister, Paris, ditches her one night and sends her on a finders mission across Las Vegas. On this mission, Leo is accompanied by a stranger she's just met, Max. Along the way, Leo wonders what Paris is running from and thinks that it might be that their step-father has been sexually abusing Paris. This sexual abuse sub-strain is far too important a topic to be relegated to a side-burner in a novel.
July 13, 2016
I will say that the more I read this book the more I hated Paris. I understand that what happened to Leo was terrible but there was no need for her to do that to her sister. I mean how exactly does leaving your sister stranded with no money because you stole it help her. Especially when you are like hey I'm sending you on hunt to find me and with a stranger nonetheless. As you can see this book clearly irritated me and really it should have been called Finding A Flaky B**ch.
January 5, 2016
Finding Paris is a story about finding yourself. I loved the backdrop of Vegas and the way when you read the words it feels like you're actually there. Paris and Leo's relationship felt so real. Their bond inseparable and so loving I loved it!! That ending though!! I expected it but then again I totally didn't which was fantastic!! Great story I would recommend to anyone!!
December 29, 2014
I knew it. But didn't expect that last turn of events tho. I mean, when the truth finally came out. :o I wasn't expecting that. Finished in just a couple of hours! :)
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