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The Paris Match
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A woman tests the limits of her so-called amicable divorce when she flies to Paris for the destination wedding of her former sister-in-law, only to butt heads with the deliciously gruff best man, in a poignant and romantic novel from Kate Clayborn.
Physician Layla Bailey has spent over a year telling herself she's moved on from a painful but amicable divorce from her college sweetheart. Staying friends with her ex seemed like the mature thing to do, but when Layla is invited to her former sister-in-law’s destination wedding in Paris—where Layla once spent her own romantic honeymoon—she knows her commitment to maturity might be her worst enemy…especially since her ex isn’t attending alone.
The only thing that could make the week more difficult is getting through it without the distraction of the wedding.... But when what Layla thought was a harmless conversation about the choices of her younger self leads to the bride getting cold feet, Layla finds herself facing down the groom’s mysterious, taciturn best man, Griffin, who will do anything to make sure this wedding happens.
Since she broke it, Griff demands she help him fix it. Going along with his plan to alleviate the engaged couple's doubts seems like Layla’s best chance at maintaining a good relationship with a family she once called her own. But as she learns more about the past heartbreak that’s driving Griff to help his friend, she gets closer and closer to confronting the true depth of her own pain…while finding herself more and more willing to risk it all again for Griff.
Physician Layla Bailey has spent over a year telling herself she's moved on from a painful but amicable divorce from her college sweetheart. Staying friends with her ex seemed like the mature thing to do, but when Layla is invited to her former sister-in-law’s destination wedding in Paris—where Layla once spent her own romantic honeymoon—she knows her commitment to maturity might be her worst enemy…especially since her ex isn’t attending alone.
The only thing that could make the week more difficult is getting through it without the distraction of the wedding.... But when what Layla thought was a harmless conversation about the choices of her younger self leads to the bride getting cold feet, Layla finds herself facing down the groom’s mysterious, taciturn best man, Griffin, who will do anything to make sure this wedding happens.
Since she broke it, Griff demands she help him fix it. Going along with his plan to alleviate the engaged couple's doubts seems like Layla’s best chance at maintaining a good relationship with a family she once called her own. But as she learns more about the past heartbreak that’s driving Griff to help his friend, she gets closer and closer to confronting the true depth of her own pain…while finding herself more and more willing to risk it all again for Griff.
464 pages, Paperback
Expected publication April 7, 2026
20018 people want to read
About the author
Kate Clayborn
20 books4,082 followersKate Clayborn is the critically acclaimed author of six novels. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, The Washington Post, Oprah Magazine, Entertainment Weekly, Bookpage, and more. By day she works in education, and by night (and sometimes, by very early morning) she writes contemporary romances about smart, strong, modern heroines who face the world alongside true friends and complicated families. She resides in Virginia with her husband and their dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
January 30, 2026
You know that feeling when you have to show up somewhere you've already said goodbye to? Not just physically, but emotionally? That's where this book lives, and Kate Clayborn handles it with so much heart and sparkle. I'm always drawn to love stories about people in their second acts—people who've already lived a little, made mistakes, and are trying to figure out what comes next. This one hooked me right from the premise: Dr. Layla Bailey agrees to go to her former sister-in-law's destination wedding in Paris. Yes, *that* Paris—the same city where her marriage started with so much hope and eventually fell apart. She's determined to be the bigger person about the whole thing (her ex-husband will be there with someone new), keep a low profile, and just get through it without any drama. But then she has a well-intentioned conversation that accidentally plants seeds of doubt in the bride's mind, and suddenly the best man—this gruff, gorgeous guy named Griffin—decides Layla is now his reluctant partner in saving this wedding. His logic? She "broke it," so now she has to help him fix it.
What unfolds from there is this slow, gorgeous unraveling of two people who've built walls around themselves. One thing Clayborn does so well is write intimacy that starts way before anyone ends up in bed together. It's in the shared errands, the quiet walks through the city, those late-night conversations that only happen after you've cleared the dinner dishes and your defenses are finally down. Layla is a doctor who's spent so much of her life taking care of everyone else that she's forgotten how to take care of herself. Griffin is all quiet competence and hidden softness—the kind of guy who shows up and gets things done but doesn't always know how to let people in. Watching them figure each other out, negotiate boundaries, talk about what they actually want and need—it all felt so refreshingly grown-up. And genuinely romantic. Their chemistry builds in these small, perfect moments: a coat draped over cold shoulders, a steadying hand on slippery cobblestones. And then it shifts into something bigger, something that makes my heart squeeze.
Paris is definitely present in this book, but it never takes over. It's more like the city gently pushes these characters toward being braver. The markets, the side streets, a quiet museum garden, a café table that becomes their safe space to talk—Clayborn's details are lovely and specific without ever feeling like you're reading a guidebook. I also really appreciated how thoughtfully the book handles bodies, consent, and intimacy. There's a nuanced, caring approach to physical connection that acknowledges real limitations without ever making desire feel less powerful. It's tender and attentive and incredibly swoony.
If I'm being picky, I did feel like Layla carries more than her fair share of the emotional work early on. I found myself wishing a few other characters would step up and meet her halfway a little sooner. But the story earns where it ends up. By the time the wedding vows were actually at stake—in more ways than one—I was completely invested in these people and the future they were choosing to build together. Messy, honest, and chosen on purpose.
**The bottom line:** This is a feel-good romance with real adult stakes, beautiful writing, and a slow burn that's worth every single page. If you love grumpy-meets-warm dynamics, found family that comes from a former family, and second chances that start with learning to forgive yourself—you need to read this one.
A huge thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for the digital review copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
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What unfolds from there is this slow, gorgeous unraveling of two people who've built walls around themselves. One thing Clayborn does so well is write intimacy that starts way before anyone ends up in bed together. It's in the shared errands, the quiet walks through the city, those late-night conversations that only happen after you've cleared the dinner dishes and your defenses are finally down. Layla is a doctor who's spent so much of her life taking care of everyone else that she's forgotten how to take care of herself. Griffin is all quiet competence and hidden softness—the kind of guy who shows up and gets things done but doesn't always know how to let people in. Watching them figure each other out, negotiate boundaries, talk about what they actually want and need—it all felt so refreshingly grown-up. And genuinely romantic. Their chemistry builds in these small, perfect moments: a coat draped over cold shoulders, a steadying hand on slippery cobblestones. And then it shifts into something bigger, something that makes my heart squeeze.
Paris is definitely present in this book, but it never takes over. It's more like the city gently pushes these characters toward being braver. The markets, the side streets, a quiet museum garden, a café table that becomes their safe space to talk—Clayborn's details are lovely and specific without ever feeling like you're reading a guidebook. I also really appreciated how thoughtfully the book handles bodies, consent, and intimacy. There's a nuanced, caring approach to physical connection that acknowledges real limitations without ever making desire feel less powerful. It's tender and attentive and incredibly swoony.
If I'm being picky, I did feel like Layla carries more than her fair share of the emotional work early on. I found myself wishing a few other characters would step up and meet her halfway a little sooner. But the story earns where it ends up. By the time the wedding vows were actually at stake—in more ways than one—I was completely invested in these people and the future they were choosing to build together. Messy, honest, and chosen on purpose.
**The bottom line:** This is a feel-good romance with real adult stakes, beautiful writing, and a slow burn that's worth every single page. If you love grumpy-meets-warm dynamics, found family that comes from a former family, and second chances that start with learning to forgive yourself—you need to read this one.
A huge thanks to NetGalley and Berkley Publishing for the digital review copy in exchange for my honest thoughts.
medium blog
August 5, 2025
No one is ready. No one does it like KC.
February 7, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Berkley Publishing Group for granting me access to this book in exchange for an honest review.
Kate Clayborn delivers a love story that lingers, one that feels alive in every heartbeat and whispered glance. Set against the enchanting streets of Paris, this slowburn, second chance romance is messy, tender, and utterly real. Layla Bailey is brave, selfless, and is always caring for others while quietly neglecting her own heart. Griffin is gruff, irresistible, and a man whose guarded exterior hides a fiercely loyal, tender soul. Together, they ignite a romance that is authentic, heartwarming, and deeply swoony.
Every interaction hums with chemistry, every conversation brims with trust, and every moment of vulnerability feels earned. The story is filled with leisurely walks, intimate meetings at charming cafe tables, and secret corners of Paris that made the city feel alive and magical. Clayborn balances emotional depth with lighthearted warmth, showing love as messy, real, and profoundly human.
Synopsis:
Layla Bailey believes she has moved on from her amicable divorce. Until she’s invited to a destination wedding in Paris, the same city where she once honeymooned. Determined to stay mature and composed, she agrees to attend, unaware of how deeply the past still lingers.
When an innocent conversation sends the bride into doubt, Layla is forced into an uneasy alliance with Griffin, the groom’s gruff, taciturn best man, who is determined to make sure the wedding happens. As they work together, guarded hearts soften amid quiet cafés, sunlit streets, and hidden corners of Paris.
At its heart, this is a story of forgiveness, self-discovery, and the beauty of second chances in life. It is passionate, swoony, unforgettable and reminds you that love is always worth the risk. I wholeheartedly recommend!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Kate Clayborn delivers a love story that lingers, one that feels alive in every heartbeat and whispered glance. Set against the enchanting streets of Paris, this slowburn, second chance romance is messy, tender, and utterly real. Layla Bailey is brave, selfless, and is always caring for others while quietly neglecting her own heart. Griffin is gruff, irresistible, and a man whose guarded exterior hides a fiercely loyal, tender soul. Together, they ignite a romance that is authentic, heartwarming, and deeply swoony.
Every interaction hums with chemistry, every conversation brims with trust, and every moment of vulnerability feels earned. The story is filled with leisurely walks, intimate meetings at charming cafe tables, and secret corners of Paris that made the city feel alive and magical. Clayborn balances emotional depth with lighthearted warmth, showing love as messy, real, and profoundly human.
Synopsis:
Layla Bailey believes she has moved on from her amicable divorce. Until she’s invited to a destination wedding in Paris, the same city where she once honeymooned. Determined to stay mature and composed, she agrees to attend, unaware of how deeply the past still lingers.
When an innocent conversation sends the bride into doubt, Layla is forced into an uneasy alliance with Griffin, the groom’s gruff, taciturn best man, who is determined to make sure the wedding happens. As they work together, guarded hearts soften amid quiet cafés, sunlit streets, and hidden corners of Paris.
At its heart, this is a story of forgiveness, self-discovery, and the beauty of second chances in life. It is passionate, swoony, unforgettable and reminds you that love is always worth the risk. I wholeheartedly recommend!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 28, 2025
review TK
October 23, 2025
I am happy to say that this is the first ARC granted to me by the publisher and author through NetGally! My opinions are, of course, my own.
This book was sexy. And I’m not just talking about the steamy parts, which were also delightful; but no, I’m talking about the building romance of Layla and Griffin from hating each other to falling in love with each other, all in the span of a few days at a destination wedding in Paris.
The reader first meets the FMC, Layla, on her way to her former sister-in-law’s wedding. She was close to Emily, so it makes sense that she would be invited and would want to go, because for many years Emily’s family was Layla’s family. What Layla didn’t know when she accepted the invitation was that her ex-husband would be bringing his new girlfriend. Potential awkward tension? Yeah, a little (read: A LOT).
What Layla couldn’t anticipate was to immediately butt heads with the groom’s taciturn Best Man, Griffin. Even before landing in Paris, Griffin is antagonistic toward Layla, and the reader is ready to hate Griffen right along with her. That is, until we get to Griffin’s first POV chapter, which Clayborn strategically delays. Once the reader is introduced to Griffin’s motivations, every previous negative interaction between the two MCs is cast in a different light, and every future interaction slowly breaks down the prejudices that both Layla and Griffin have toward each other.
What I also loved about this book was that Clayborn writes the plot’s main conflict not between the love interests, but between the soon to be married bride and groom. Griffin accuses Layla of saying something to the bride that causes her to have cold feet enough to derail the very elaborate Paris wedding. He insists on helping Layla fix the potential catastrophic rift, regardless of whether she was responsible for causing it.
So, Layla and Griffin have work to do to save the wedding, and in the process, they start to open up to each other and fall for each other.
Full endorsement for The Paris Match. (Seriously, read this book just for the romance writing masterclass that was the first kiss scene.) Chef’s kiss to you, Clayborn. Bien joué.
This book was sexy. And I’m not just talking about the steamy parts, which were also delightful; but no, I’m talking about the building romance of Layla and Griffin from hating each other to falling in love with each other, all in the span of a few days at a destination wedding in Paris.
The reader first meets the FMC, Layla, on her way to her former sister-in-law’s wedding. She was close to Emily, so it makes sense that she would be invited and would want to go, because for many years Emily’s family was Layla’s family. What Layla didn’t know when she accepted the invitation was that her ex-husband would be bringing his new girlfriend. Potential awkward tension? Yeah, a little (read: A LOT).
What Layla couldn’t anticipate was to immediately butt heads with the groom’s taciturn Best Man, Griffin. Even before landing in Paris, Griffin is antagonistic toward Layla, and the reader is ready to hate Griffen right along with her. That is, until we get to Griffin’s first POV chapter, which Clayborn strategically delays. Once the reader is introduced to Griffin’s motivations, every previous negative interaction between the two MCs is cast in a different light, and every future interaction slowly breaks down the prejudices that both Layla and Griffin have toward each other.
What I also loved about this book was that Clayborn writes the plot’s main conflict not between the love interests, but between the soon to be married bride and groom. Griffin accuses Layla of saying something to the bride that causes her to have cold feet enough to derail the very elaborate Paris wedding. He insists on helping Layla fix the potential catastrophic rift, regardless of whether she was responsible for causing it.
So, Layla and Griffin have work to do to save the wedding, and in the process, they start to open up to each other and fall for each other.
Full endorsement for The Paris Match. (Seriously, read this book just for the romance writing masterclass that was the first kiss scene.) Chef’s kiss to you, Clayborn. Bien joué.
November 8, 2025
thank you to netgalley and the publishers for an arc in exchange for a review.
this was so cute and fun and i absolutely enjoyed it.
i'm not usually one for a second set romance, but Kate wrote this so beautifully. she also knows how to write all the intimacy even before anyone enters the bed which kept me on my toes the entire time.
highly recommend this romance to everyone!
this was so cute and fun and i absolutely enjoyed it.
i'm not usually one for a second set romance, but Kate wrote this so beautifully. she also knows how to write all the intimacy even before anyone enters the bed which kept me on my toes the entire time.
highly recommend this romance to everyone!
December 27, 2025
Ex-CUSE ME????? Excuse me, Kate????
No ‘cause this book is god-tier. I have re-read it TWICE since I finished and who knows, I MIGHT just go in again!!! I’m actually feral for this book, so, buckle up.
THE PARIS MATCH is the story of Layla Bailey, who is returning to Paris for the destination wedding of her former sister-in-law. She’s repeating her affirmations: she’s calm, she’s thriving, and she’s totally fine seeing her ex-husband (and his new girlfriend) after their amicable divorce. But returning to Paris means confronting the city she spent her own honeymoon in, then dealing with the potentially wedding-ruining aftermath of a seemingly harmless conversation with Emily, the bride-to-be. Now, with the bride’s cold feet, Layla is forced to do damage control with the grumpy and mysterious best man Griffin, who is hell-bent on making the wedding happen. Easing the couple’s doubts, maintaining a relationship with the family she once called her own, and participating in pre-wedding festivities in the city of love leads to learning more about dark, deep Griffin…and herself.
Damn, this book is IT. So hot and smart, funny and deep, with richly-developed characters, a sparkling setting, and a love story that left me breathless. I truly had to put the book down at moments to scream into my pillow. THIS IS ROMANCE. THIS IS IT. *chef’s kiss*
Brb, immediately booking a ticket to Paris. We bow down, Kate!!!
The biggest thanks to Berkley and Netgalley for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest, unbiased review. THE PARIS MATCH is out 04/07/26. PREORDER IT IMMEDIATELY.
No ‘cause this book is god-tier. I have re-read it TWICE since I finished and who knows, I MIGHT just go in again!!! I’m actually feral for this book, so, buckle up.
THE PARIS MATCH is the story of Layla Bailey, who is returning to Paris for the destination wedding of her former sister-in-law. She’s repeating her affirmations: she’s calm, she’s thriving, and she’s totally fine seeing her ex-husband (and his new girlfriend) after their amicable divorce. But returning to Paris means confronting the city she spent her own honeymoon in, then dealing with the potentially wedding-ruining aftermath of a seemingly harmless conversation with Emily, the bride-to-be. Now, with the bride’s cold feet, Layla is forced to do damage control with the grumpy and mysterious best man Griffin, who is hell-bent on making the wedding happen. Easing the couple’s doubts, maintaining a relationship with the family she once called her own, and participating in pre-wedding festivities in the city of love leads to learning more about dark, deep Griffin…and herself.
Damn, this book is IT. So hot and smart, funny and deep, with richly-developed characters, a sparkling setting, and a love story that left me breathless. I truly had to put the book down at moments to scream into my pillow. THIS IS ROMANCE. THIS IS IT. *chef’s kiss*
Brb, immediately booking a ticket to Paris. We bow down, Kate!!!
The biggest thanks to Berkley and Netgalley for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest, unbiased review. THE PARIS MATCH is out 04/07/26. PREORDER IT IMMEDIATELY.
October 24, 2025
Kate Clayborn, I LOVE how your brain works. So much.
Kate not only writes some of the most complex characters, but the journey she takes you along with them is always so rewarding. Her writing is transporting, and immersive, and enveloping. I always feel like I’m IN IT, you know what I mean?
The Paris Match is a poignant, thoughtful story. It is raw, and messy, but filled with joyful hope.
I’m so grateful for this ARC. Thank you, Berkley!
Kate not only writes some of the most complex characters, but the journey she takes you along with them is always so rewarding. Her writing is transporting, and immersive, and enveloping. I always feel like I’m IN IT, you know what I mean?
The Paris Match is a poignant, thoughtful story. It is raw, and messy, but filled with joyful hope.
I’m so grateful for this ARC. Thank you, Berkley!
Want to read
October 10, 2025October 9, 2025 : 
BERKLEY DID THE THING, THANK YOU BERKLEY
August 9, 2025 : I think a new Clayborn would fix me. Hint hint nudge nudge Berkley.
BERKLEY DID THE THING, THANK YOU BERKLEY
August 9, 2025 : I think a new Clayborn would fix me. Hint hint nudge nudge Berkley.
January 2, 2026
What happens when your former sister-in-law invites you to her wedding and you end up forming a strange alliance with the best man who is rude (and okay handsome) to make sure the wedding goes off without a hitch? Yep, that's the premise of The Paris Match and I loved every second of this messy, sweet, chaotic and very romantic book.
Kate Clayborn's books are typically very character driven and we really get to know each and every character in The Paris Match. Right off the bat, I fell in love with Layla's character. She was self assured and confident...but willing to go back to a wedding with her former in-laws? Oof,that's a lot to unpack there. And then we meet Griffin who is gruff, rude and comes across as arrogant. But he's battling his own internal demons. These characters were so complex and I loved the way Kate wove this story around them all while centering it around Paris - the city of Love.
I really enjoyed The Paris Match and it very well might be my favorite Kate Clayborn novel. The romance was so sweet and never felt rushed or insta-love. I loved the themes of becoming more self aware of who you are and learning to forgive yourself.
Overall, 4.5 stars.
p.s. favorite words from this book: lightning, fae-prince, amicable (iykyk)
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.
Kate Clayborn's books are typically very character driven and we really get to know each and every character in The Paris Match. Right off the bat, I fell in love with Layla's character. She was self assured and confident...but willing to go back to a wedding with her former in-laws? Oof,that's a lot to unpack there. And then we meet Griffin who is gruff, rude and comes across as arrogant. But he's battling his own internal demons. These characters were so complex and I loved the way Kate wove this story around them all while centering it around Paris - the city of Love.
I really enjoyed The Paris Match and it very well might be my favorite Kate Clayborn novel. The romance was so sweet and never felt rushed or insta-love. I loved the themes of becoming more self aware of who you are and learning to forgive yourself.
Overall, 4.5 stars.
p.s. favorite words from this book: lightning, fae-prince, amicable (iykyk)
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher.
December 1, 2025
4.5 stars
I thought perhaps Clayborn was no longer a favorite after her last book.
WRONG.
Was fully invested in the characters, the story, the romance, the heat level… friends, this one’s a winner. Also enjoyed Paris as the third main character, and it was a bonus treat superimposing Griffin and Layla as they navigated the city, too.
Gah. Really loved this. Wish the ending was a bit longer! I’m greedy that way.
I thought perhaps Clayborn was no longer a favorite after her last book.
WRONG.
Was fully invested in the characters, the story, the romance, the heat level… friends, this one’s a winner. Also enjoyed Paris as the third main character, and it was a bonus treat superimposing Griffin and Layla as they navigated the city, too.
Gah. Really loved this. Wish the ending was a bit longer! I’m greedy that way.
November 19, 2025
NOTHING LIKE A KATE CLAYBORN NOVEL!!
Buckle up folks! It's a long one.
The thing about a Kate Clayborn Novel is they just feel different to me. Kate's sentence level writing is at a whole other level and I truly think all contemporary romance writers should be reading her work. Also to brag this is the first book I've read since I met her and idk it just felt different.
I hate putting caveats in posts, but I can see why her work doesn't work for everyone. Her stories are slow at times and sure some beats are a little Romance Reasons. This book is instalovely and the pacing is slow and then fast at the end (these are not complaints I have and in fact those things work for me here, but I see why they might not work for others). BUT but I think from a craft standpoint she is on a different level than most Romance Writers today and this is mainly due to her character work.
No one is as good as Kate is at making you understand characters from the jump. Here with Layla you see the tension in her from wanting to be a good guest and getting this whole week over with, with the woman who first fell in love with Paris and is realizing things about herself in the process. With Griff you see the tension in him and how he also has ONE GOAL for the week and will do anything for Michael. The two of them start their journey as adversaries who both will do anything to get this wedding to happen. Nothing like a common goal to unite "enemies". But god the way kate firsts introduces us to these two on a plane (one of my favorite settings for a meet cute) where we see Layla's care for others and Griff's need to hang on to a sembalnce of control to get through a rough situation. Both of their internal monolgues are hilarious to me beacuse they are both projecting an image but inside are both like !!!!!!! I always think of Kate's work in The Other Side of Disappearing where you know who those two are by the end of each of their first POV chapters, here it takes a little longer to figure these two out, but the groundwork she lays is perfect.
Kate's work is so intentional. The two of them meeting on a PLANE and Layla being thrown into a medical emergency and Griff having to stand up for her are all intentional. You never feel like the story is controlling Kate, she is controlling the narrative and each moment is chosen for a reason. But at the same time the story just flows?! The characters just move?! It never feels heavy handed.
Something that I love in Romances is when one chartacter truly sees the other character even (or especially) if the other is trying to hide their true self. And Layla is trying to hard to seem breezey and okay with everything and Griff just wants her facade to crack beacuse he can see she is not okay and he helps her admit it to herslef.
One of my favorite novels is Just One Day by Gayle Forman. In it an 18 year old girl spends a whirlwhind day in Paris with a Dutch Boy and it changes everything she thinks she knows about herelf. This novel is the perfect adult companion to it. Both are love letters to Paris, but not in a way that is overdone. In both the charatcers find themselves and have whirwind romances. And you see more of Paris than just the highlight reels. Here Paris is the perfect background and the characters not being at home, and in a foreign country is pivotal to them and their journeys.
Ultimately, I love KC novels so much. Her characters seem so real to me. You can feel their feelings and this is why Kate's novels are in a league of their own.
*thank you to the publisher for the eARC; all thoughts are my own*
Buckle up folks! It's a long one.
The thing about a Kate Clayborn Novel is they just feel different to me. Kate's sentence level writing is at a whole other level and I truly think all contemporary romance writers should be reading her work. Also to brag this is the first book I've read since I met her and idk it just felt different.
I hate putting caveats in posts, but I can see why her work doesn't work for everyone. Her stories are slow at times and sure some beats are a little Romance Reasons. This book is instalovely and the pacing is slow and then fast at the end (these are not complaints I have and in fact those things work for me here, but I see why they might not work for others). BUT but I think from a craft standpoint she is on a different level than most Romance Writers today and this is mainly due to her character work.
No one is as good as Kate is at making you understand characters from the jump. Here with Layla you see the tension in her from wanting to be a good guest and getting this whole week over with, with the woman who first fell in love with Paris and is realizing things about herself in the process. With Griff you see the tension in him and how he also has ONE GOAL for the week and will do anything for Michael. The two of them start their journey as adversaries who both will do anything to get this wedding to happen. Nothing like a common goal to unite "enemies". But god the way kate firsts introduces us to these two on a plane (one of my favorite settings for a meet cute) where we see Layla's care for others and Griff's need to hang on to a sembalnce of control to get through a rough situation. Both of their internal monolgues are hilarious to me beacuse they are both projecting an image but inside are both like !!!!!!! I always think of Kate's work in The Other Side of Disappearing where you know who those two are by the end of each of their first POV chapters, here it takes a little longer to figure these two out, but the groundwork she lays is perfect.
Kate's work is so intentional. The two of them meeting on a PLANE and Layla being thrown into a medical emergency and Griff having to stand up for her are all intentional. You never feel like the story is controlling Kate, she is controlling the narrative and each moment is chosen for a reason. But at the same time the story just flows?! The characters just move?! It never feels heavy handed.
Something that I love in Romances is when one chartacter truly sees the other character even (or especially) if the other is trying to hide their true self. And Layla is trying to hard to seem breezey and okay with everything and Griff just wants her facade to crack beacuse he can see she is not okay and he helps her admit it to herslef.
One of my favorite novels is Just One Day by Gayle Forman. In it an 18 year old girl spends a whirlwhind day in Paris with a Dutch Boy and it changes everything she thinks she knows about herelf. This novel is the perfect adult companion to it. Both are love letters to Paris, but not in a way that is overdone. In both the charatcers find themselves and have whirwind romances. And you see more of Paris than just the highlight reels. Here Paris is the perfect background and the characters not being at home, and in a foreign country is pivotal to them and their journeys.
Ultimately, I love KC novels so much. Her characters seem so real to me. You can feel their feelings and this is why Kate's novels are in a league of their own.
*thank you to the publisher for the eARC; all thoughts are my own*
December 12, 2025
𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗛𝗔𝗣𝗦
Layla Bailey is, in a word, amicable.
A physician, she turns on a neutral face before seeing a patient. Unfortunately, she also does this in her real life. Always amicable, unflappable, easy to please.
Of course, none of that mirrors the true feelings she’s tamped down.
Which is how she ends up in Paris at a destination wedding for the sister of her ex-husband. The location of her very own honeymoon. Where her ex will be bringing his new girlfriend.
Amicable.
Then she finds herself forced to work with the best man, Griffin, to save a potentially ruined wedding.
Griffin who is badly scarred, emotionally and physically. Griffin who is angry and closed off and harboring secrets.
Can both open their damaged hearts and find trust and love and happiness?
𝗙𝗘𝗘𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗚𝗦
I love Kate Clayborn’s prose.
I did not love this story.
There is so much going on, so many subplots and complications and difficulties, and not enough focus on the romance, which is what I came here for.
Paris is a lovely character. There is so much potential for Layla and Griff.
But the spotlight doesn’t shine on them.
𝗩𝗜𝗕𝗘 𝗖𝗛𝗘𝗖𝗞
The “this is fine” meme.
𝗥𝗘𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗗
I think a lot of people will love it, and I won’t discourage you. Three stars is not a bad review. I was compelled to read it, curious where it went. Ultimately, though, it was a let down when compared to her two previous popular releases.
𝗧𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗞𝗦
@Berkley provided me with the ARC and I truly appreciated it. This is due out 4/7/26.
Layla Bailey is, in a word, amicable.
A physician, she turns on a neutral face before seeing a patient. Unfortunately, she also does this in her real life. Always amicable, unflappable, easy to please.
Of course, none of that mirrors the true feelings she’s tamped down.
Which is how she ends up in Paris at a destination wedding for the sister of her ex-husband. The location of her very own honeymoon. Where her ex will be bringing his new girlfriend.
Amicable.
Then she finds herself forced to work with the best man, Griffin, to save a potentially ruined wedding.
Griffin who is badly scarred, emotionally and physically. Griffin who is angry and closed off and harboring secrets.
Can both open their damaged hearts and find trust and love and happiness?
𝗙𝗘𝗘𝗟𝗜𝗡𝗚𝗦
I love Kate Clayborn’s prose.
I did not love this story.
There is so much going on, so many subplots and complications and difficulties, and not enough focus on the romance, which is what I came here for.
Paris is a lovely character. There is so much potential for Layla and Griff.
But the spotlight doesn’t shine on them.
𝗩𝗜𝗕𝗘 𝗖𝗛𝗘𝗖𝗞
The “this is fine” meme.
𝗥𝗘𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗗
I think a lot of people will love it, and I won’t discourage you. Three stars is not a bad review. I was compelled to read it, curious where it went. Ultimately, though, it was a let down when compared to her two previous popular releases.
𝗧𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗞𝗦
@Berkley provided me with the ARC and I truly appreciated it. This is due out 4/7/26.
October 27, 2025
A love story in Paris, with delicious food and lots of sightseeing - I was ready for it! There were a few mysteries along the way and I enjoyed it all. Layla is on her way to a wedding in Paris. Her ex-sister-in-law, Emily, is getting married and asked her to come, even though she and Emily’s brother divorced a few years ago and she hasn’t kept in touch. Layla is worried about what everyone will think when they see her there. There is a medical emergency on her plane and she is a doctor so she steps in to help. She meets Griffin on the plane when he helps calm some passengers. He can be gruff and a little rude but Layla thinks he looks like a Fae Prince. He turns out to be the groom’s best man and she sees his scars and realizes he is in pain. When Emily starts to get cold feet, Layla and Griffin work together to try and fix things.
When Layla and Griffin explore Paris on their own, I felt like I was there with them as they ate crepes and macarons and visited shops and museums. It was really fun. But, Layla’s ex is at the wedding with someone new and I wondered what happened to break up her marriage. I also wondered how Griffin was injured. The tension builds as Layla and Griffin become close and the mysteries unfold. This was a lovely, unique romance with depth and emotion. Thank you to the author, Berkley and NetGalley for the ARC. The Paris Match comes out April 7th.
When Layla and Griffin explore Paris on their own, I felt like I was there with them as they ate crepes and macarons and visited shops and museums. It was really fun. But, Layla’s ex is at the wedding with someone new and I wondered what happened to break up her marriage. I also wondered how Griffin was injured. The tension builds as Layla and Griffin become close and the mysteries unfold. This was a lovely, unique romance with depth and emotion. Thank you to the author, Berkley and NetGalley for the ARC. The Paris Match comes out April 7th.
November 23, 2025
Wow this was Kate's best book yet! I feel so incredibly lucky to have had the opportunity to read it early. Everyone is in for a treat in April 2026 when this one hits shelves—add it to your TBRs now! I'm already so excited to reread a finished copy.
In addition to being absolutely beautifully designed (the itinerary page made me gasp, honestly), this is Kate's most tender, most thoughtful, most deliberate book yet. Griffin's and Layla's arcs are so well done, and the entire book is incredibly well researched on so many levels. The story takes place over the course of a few days at a destination wedding, but it's not insta-love between Griffin and Layla at all. Kate really puts in the work to develop the characters individually, and their relationship, so she really builds their foundation for a long-lasting, romantic connection. I couldn't get enough!
I'll more likely write a longer review closer to publication or immediately after I reread it, but just know that if I were going to make sure just one book was on everyone I know's TBR for next year, it would be this book. It would be this book!!
In addition to being absolutely beautifully designed (the itinerary page made me gasp, honestly), this is Kate's most tender, most thoughtful, most deliberate book yet. Griffin's and Layla's arcs are so well done, and the entire book is incredibly well researched on so many levels. The story takes place over the course of a few days at a destination wedding, but it's not insta-love between Griffin and Layla at all. Kate really puts in the work to develop the characters individually, and their relationship, so she really builds their foundation for a long-lasting, romantic connection. I couldn't get enough!
I'll more likely write a longer review closer to publication or immediately after I reread it, but just know that if I were going to make sure just one book was on everyone I know's TBR for next year, it would be this book. It would be this book!!
December 28, 2025
“There shouldn’t be anything amicable about losing you,” he said. There should be a war, he thought.”
If you haven’t read a Kate Clayborn book yet, this is your sign. I love every single one of her novels, but The Paris Match is something truly special. Achingly romantic and deeply heartfelt. Kate Clayborn has an incredible gift for making you feel and this book delivers that emotional magic in the most beautiful way.
✨ THINGS AND STUFF ✨
-dual pov, third person
-she’s “amicably” divorced
-ex sister in law’s wedding in Paris
-he’s the best man
-grumpy sunshine
-hate, HATE, loathe entirely to lovers
-trauma and chronic pain rep
-family dynamics
-found family
-#IsThisAKissingBook open door
Thank you Berkley Romance for the advanced copy!
If you haven’t read a Kate Clayborn book yet, this is your sign. I love every single one of her novels, but The Paris Match is something truly special. Achingly romantic and deeply heartfelt. Kate Clayborn has an incredible gift for making you feel and this book delivers that emotional magic in the most beautiful way.
✨ THINGS AND STUFF ✨
-dual pov, third person
-she’s “amicably” divorced
-ex sister in law’s wedding in Paris
-he’s the best man
-grumpy sunshine
-hate, HATE, loathe entirely to lovers
-trauma and chronic pain rep
-family dynamics
-found family
-#IsThisAKissingBook open door
Thank you Berkley Romance for the advanced copy!
October 27, 2025
As someone who’s read all KCs books this is top three. These characters were complex and interesting, the story achingly romantic, and it felt uncharted, a tough thing to do in romance.
November 1, 2025
My goodness.
October 16, 2025
PERFECTION ♾️⭐️
December 8, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and author Kate Clayborn for the opportunity to read an ARC of The Paris Match! I loved this—which didn’t surprise me. Kate Clayborn consistently delivers romantic books with emotional depth, interesting dynamics (both between the romantic leads and between the leads and the supporting cast of characters), and complex lead characters I want to root for. The Paris Match is no exception to this pattern I’ve come to expect from Kate Clayborn, but I think it's my favorite of her books that I’ve read so far, and Griffin is my favorite male lead thus far of hers.
November 8, 2025
Kate Clayborn is unfairly good at what she does. The Paris Match was something entirely new but so quintessentially Kate Clayborn. It was full of tenderness, a broad emotional spectrum, and healing in different ways. Set among the beauty of Paris, which I’ve never experienced in person but could feel in these pages, this was a deeply layered story of the profound impact a person can unexpectedly have on another’s life.
Layla was someone who I could feel had more to her story from the very beginning and I was immediately ready to see where the challenging week ahead in Paris would take her. Putting herself back in the fray with her ex-in-laws after years apart while her ex is bringing his new girlfriend would have been a lot to navigate on its own, but add in a mysterious, reticent best man who blames her when the intended wedding was called into question added a whole other level of difficulty. Layla’s medical profession helped her approach everything with a level of calm and grace that was admirable, but what I really loved was when the facade started to come down and she let her real emotions start to show. A great deal of that came as she spent more time with said reticent best man, Griffin.
Griffin was another complex MMC to add to the Kate Clayborn hero lexicon. From his introduction on the flight to Paris to the unveiling of his past and the depth of his need for this wedding to happen, he was a rough shell with the most tender insides that he’d kept locked down for years. His immediate reactions to Layla’s presence felt so intense in a way that he knew, and myself as a reader knew, she was going to turn his world upside down in one way or another. What followed was a simultaneously soft and strong emotional experience between the two of them that triggered something neither necessarily knew or were ready to accept about what it really meant for them to move forward in their individual lives and circumstances. How things ultimately unfold was one of the most genuine, hopeful and healing experiences I’ve read in recent memory.
Forgive the length of this review, but I cannot wrap it up with mentioning the absolutely decadent way Kate Clayborn has written the concept of touch in this book. There were the smallest moments that felt more intimate and downright erotic than I would have ever thought a simple handhold could be, and the actual sexual intimacy progression had me tearing up at the tenderness I felt in my heart in those moments. My own words can’t do it justice, but I was blown away by the way Layla and Griffin’s connection was written.
Endless thanks to Berkley for the eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Layla was someone who I could feel had more to her story from the very beginning and I was immediately ready to see where the challenging week ahead in Paris would take her. Putting herself back in the fray with her ex-in-laws after years apart while her ex is bringing his new girlfriend would have been a lot to navigate on its own, but add in a mysterious, reticent best man who blames her when the intended wedding was called into question added a whole other level of difficulty. Layla’s medical profession helped her approach everything with a level of calm and grace that was admirable, but what I really loved was when the facade started to come down and she let her real emotions start to show. A great deal of that came as she spent more time with said reticent best man, Griffin.
Griffin was another complex MMC to add to the Kate Clayborn hero lexicon. From his introduction on the flight to Paris to the unveiling of his past and the depth of his need for this wedding to happen, he was a rough shell with the most tender insides that he’d kept locked down for years. His immediate reactions to Layla’s presence felt so intense in a way that he knew, and myself as a reader knew, she was going to turn his world upside down in one way or another. What followed was a simultaneously soft and strong emotional experience between the two of them that triggered something neither necessarily knew or were ready to accept about what it really meant for them to move forward in their individual lives and circumstances. How things ultimately unfold was one of the most genuine, hopeful and healing experiences I’ve read in recent memory.
Forgive the length of this review, but I cannot wrap it up with mentioning the absolutely decadent way Kate Clayborn has written the concept of touch in this book. There were the smallest moments that felt more intimate and downright erotic than I would have ever thought a simple handhold could be, and the actual sexual intimacy progression had me tearing up at the tenderness I felt in my heart in those moments. My own words can’t do it justice, but I was blown away by the way Layla and Griffin’s connection was written.
Endless thanks to Berkley for the eARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
October 13, 2025
Okay, Kate Clayborn just gets it. She writes about real adults who’ve been through it, made some questionable choices, and are still trying to figure out how to show up for themselves. The Paris Match is that kind of story. It is a messy, hopeful, second act kind of book that I really enjoyed.
Dr. Layla Bailey is heading to Paris (already iconic) for her former sister in law’s destination wedding. Sounds fun until she realizes her ex husband will be there with his new girlfriend. The fact that Layla even agreed to go makes her braver than me. She’s fully prepared to mind her business and sip champagne quietly… until a slightly too honest conversation snowballs into wedding drama, and she’s suddenly teamed up with the grumpy, gorgeous best man, Griffin, to fix it all.
And that’s when the fun starts. Griffin is the definition of silent but devastating. He’s stoic and does not want to talk about feelings, but is a secret sweetheart who is so helpful. Layla, meanwhile, is the kind of FMC that I resonate with and root for. She is smart, kind, a little exhausted from being the responsible one for too long (hello, eldest daughter energy). Their chemistry was really palpable and it made me giddy. But what I loved most was how Kate Clayborn builds it through small things, like helping each other out, trading quiet jokes, brushing hands while walking through Paris streets. It’s soft, slow, earned and I really loved that build up.
Paris itself feels like another character, but not in an over the top way. It’s not the touristy, Eiffel Tower version; it’s the smaller aspects of the city that pushes Layla and Griffin to open up, to be braver, to try again. It’s romantic in the most grounded, grown up way.
One thing Kate Clayborn always nails is intimacy that feels real. The way she writes about consent, vulnerability, and attraction never feels performative, but actually genuine. It’s tender and hot at the same time, which is such a rare combo.
If I had to nitpick, I’d say the book runs a bit long and Layla shoulders too much emotional labor in the first half. But I truly can say I didn’t care, because the rest of the details were so good that I can overlook that. It all comes together beautifully, and I loved the experience of reading this book.
Thank you to NetGalley, Kate Clayborn, and Berkley for the eARC of this book.
Dr. Layla Bailey is heading to Paris (already iconic) for her former sister in law’s destination wedding. Sounds fun until she realizes her ex husband will be there with his new girlfriend. The fact that Layla even agreed to go makes her braver than me. She’s fully prepared to mind her business and sip champagne quietly… until a slightly too honest conversation snowballs into wedding drama, and she’s suddenly teamed up with the grumpy, gorgeous best man, Griffin, to fix it all.
And that’s when the fun starts. Griffin is the definition of silent but devastating. He’s stoic and does not want to talk about feelings, but is a secret sweetheart who is so helpful. Layla, meanwhile, is the kind of FMC that I resonate with and root for. She is smart, kind, a little exhausted from being the responsible one for too long (hello, eldest daughter energy). Their chemistry was really palpable and it made me giddy. But what I loved most was how Kate Clayborn builds it through small things, like helping each other out, trading quiet jokes, brushing hands while walking through Paris streets. It’s soft, slow, earned and I really loved that build up.
Paris itself feels like another character, but not in an over the top way. It’s not the touristy, Eiffel Tower version; it’s the smaller aspects of the city that pushes Layla and Griffin to open up, to be braver, to try again. It’s romantic in the most grounded, grown up way.
One thing Kate Clayborn always nails is intimacy that feels real. The way she writes about consent, vulnerability, and attraction never feels performative, but actually genuine. It’s tender and hot at the same time, which is such a rare combo.
If I had to nitpick, I’d say the book runs a bit long and Layla shoulders too much emotional labor in the first half. But I truly can say I didn’t care, because the rest of the details were so good that I can overlook that. It all comes together beautifully, and I loved the experience of reading this book.
Thank you to NetGalley, Kate Clayborn, and Berkley for the eARC of this book.
January 9, 2026
Oh, honey. I read this book in a day (joy, and tears, the whole roller coaster) that's how much I loved it. Kate Clayborn? OKAY GIRL.
The Paris Match is for The Hunchback of Notre Dame lovers and I 100% lived for every chapter, moment, and reveal that was set in the City of Light. Largely because Victor Hugo's book has rarely been touched in romance with many authors favouring the accessible Beauty and the Beast. What Kate has achieved in this novel? I was bereft, the moments delivered and Griff and Layla both grow into their own with every chapter. The location of Paris didn't feel commercialized in this book (sometimes, travel locations can just feel overdone) but I could see myself back in Paris determinedly striding the roads, stepping into the chaos of Galeries Lafayette, maneuvering the Paris Metro to get to Montmartre , waking up early to see the remains of the Notre-Dame still closed for renovations, going to the Louvre and being in shock at the size of the Mona Lisa, standing in line for an hour and 45 minutes waiting to get into the Dior museum (and then rapidly discussing my love for garments that just effused life, which was beautifully highlighted in the book), that sense of wandering was just captured beautifully. But then there's the sensory stuff as well, and Kate? Well done. To evoke that much from a reader is special.
I have so many favourite moments from the book which has the WORST WEDDING I've read in a while (like babes everyone needs therapy after this wedding cause there's vomit, reveals, drama that would drive me to the point of no return). But that bone-crushing pain of those chapters is balanced with Griff and Layla rediscovering themselves and why they need to choose themselves, for the betterment of themselves.
You know me, I always share a quote, and this one really shifted the story: "There shouldn't be anything amicable about losing you", he said.
Beautiful. Simply gorgeous. Five stars? Nope, infinity, and I can't believe this is my first Kate Clayborn book! Thank you so much Berkley Publishing for the early digital copy.
The Paris Match is for The Hunchback of Notre Dame lovers and I 100% lived for every chapter, moment, and reveal that was set in the City of Light. Largely because Victor Hugo's book has rarely been touched in romance with many authors favouring the accessible Beauty and the Beast. What Kate has achieved in this novel? I was bereft, the moments delivered and Griff and Layla both grow into their own with every chapter. The location of Paris didn't feel commercialized in this book (sometimes, travel locations can just feel overdone) but I could see myself back in Paris determinedly striding the roads, stepping into the chaos of Galeries Lafayette, maneuvering the Paris Metro to get to Montmartre , waking up early to see the remains of the Notre-Dame still closed for renovations, going to the Louvre and being in shock at the size of the Mona Lisa, standing in line for an hour and 45 minutes waiting to get into the Dior museum (and then rapidly discussing my love for garments that just effused life, which was beautifully highlighted in the book), that sense of wandering was just captured beautifully. But then there's the sensory stuff as well, and Kate? Well done. To evoke that much from a reader is special.
I have so many favourite moments from the book which has the WORST WEDDING I've read in a while (like babes everyone needs therapy after this wedding cause there's vomit, reveals, drama that would drive me to the point of no return). But that bone-crushing pain of those chapters is balanced with Griff and Layla rediscovering themselves and why they need to choose themselves, for the betterment of themselves.
You know me, I always share a quote, and this one really shifted the story: "There shouldn't be anything amicable about losing you", he said.
Beautiful. Simply gorgeous. Five stars? Nope, infinity, and I can't believe this is my first Kate Clayborn book! Thank you so much Berkley Publishing for the early digital copy.
August 10, 2025
4.5 stars. Kate Clayborn has written many emotional books with characters who’ve been through hard things, but this might be the most emotional. Layla agrees to attend her ex-sister-in-law’s destination wedding in Paris, even though the city held special meaning in her marriage. And her ex will be there. With his new girlfriend. And their entire family. She’s prepared, with a whole suitcase of boring blending-in outfits and plans to stay out of the way.
What she hasn’t planned on, though, is best man Griffin, brooding and scarred and giving off serious Beauty and the Beast vibes. He seems extremely committed to making sure this wedding happens, and even more inclined to blame Layla when there’s trouble between the happy couple. He’s also…hot. Not that Layla has noticed.
Not everything in this book worked for me. I was very frustrated by Layla’s willingness to take on responsibility for every problem. Everyone needed to talk to each other more. But Clayborn gets where she needs to go, and everything eventually makes sense.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for the ARC to review. All opinions are my own.
What she hasn’t planned on, though, is best man Griffin, brooding and scarred and giving off serious Beauty and the Beast vibes. He seems extremely committed to making sure this wedding happens, and even more inclined to blame Layla when there’s trouble between the happy couple. He’s also…hot. Not that Layla has noticed.
Not everything in this book worked for me. I was very frustrated by Layla’s willingness to take on responsibility for every problem. Everyone needed to talk to each other more. But Clayborn gets where she needs to go, and everything eventually makes sense.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for the ARC to review. All opinions are my own.
October 11, 2025
Thank you to the publisher for a gifted copy; all thoughts are my own!
📖 Book Review 📖 Would you be brave enough to attend your former sister-in-law’s wedding with your ex present with his new flame? What if it was in Paris? The most romantic city in the world…where you just happened to honeymoon with said ex. The argument to stay far away from this destination wedding is certainly stacking up for Dr. Layla Bailey. But something in her heart tells her to show up.
But when the start of the wedding week reveals the very grumpy man she encountered during the airplane ride turns out to be the best man and the bride is having cold feet, Layla is questioning her judgment. But Lauren Conrad ingrained an important lesson: never be the girl to give up a trip to Paris. Magic happens in the City of Paris. It may not happen in the ways we expect but it’s real and if you’ve ever been lucky enough to visit Paris, you know it will most certainly involve a visit to The Kiss at the Musée Rodin. Kate Clayborn pens a whimsically romantic novel about life and love in the city brimming with joie de vi·vre.
📖 Book Review 📖 Would you be brave enough to attend your former sister-in-law’s wedding with your ex present with his new flame? What if it was in Paris? The most romantic city in the world…where you just happened to honeymoon with said ex. The argument to stay far away from this destination wedding is certainly stacking up for Dr. Layla Bailey. But something in her heart tells her to show up.
But when the start of the wedding week reveals the very grumpy man she encountered during the airplane ride turns out to be the best man and the bride is having cold feet, Layla is questioning her judgment. But Lauren Conrad ingrained an important lesson: never be the girl to give up a trip to Paris. Magic happens in the City of Paris. It may not happen in the ways we expect but it’s real and if you’ve ever been lucky enough to visit Paris, you know it will most certainly involve a visit to The Kiss at the Musée Rodin. Kate Clayborn pens a whimsically romantic novel about life and love in the city brimming with joie de vi·vre.
November 4, 2025
The Paris Match by Kate Clayborn is the kind of book that sneaks up on you. You’re reading, having a good time, and then suddenly you realize you’re knee-deep in an emotional experience. I can’t pinpoint exactly what I loved about it, and I think that’s because the storytelling is just so beautiful and raw.
Layla goes on vacation to Paris for her ex-sister-in-law, Emily's, wedding. She’s always felt like Emily’s big sister and still feels obligated to play that part, even though she’s no longer part of the family. Things get complicated when her ex shows up with his new girlfriend—and the best man is a grouchy, taciturn man she can’t get out of her head.
This is a story about growth, discovery, and learning to fight for yourself when maybe you haven’t before. It’s an open-door romance. I loved experiencing this book. It wasn’t quite a five-star read for me—at times it felt a bit cyclical—but I think that’s just the characters learning to be better.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this arc.
Layla goes on vacation to Paris for her ex-sister-in-law, Emily's, wedding. She’s always felt like Emily’s big sister and still feels obligated to play that part, even though she’s no longer part of the family. Things get complicated when her ex shows up with his new girlfriend—and the best man is a grouchy, taciturn man she can’t get out of her head.
This is a story about growth, discovery, and learning to fight for yourself when maybe you haven’t before. It’s an open-door romance. I loved experiencing this book. It wasn’t quite a five-star read for me—at times it felt a bit cyclical—but I think that’s just the characters learning to be better.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this arc.
October 27, 2025
Kate Clayborn the woman you are!! Kate is so good at writing quiet, soft, yearning love. Most of this book takes place over the course of just a week, so she had a tall task in selling us on a romance in just a short period. I think she did just that! The build up, tension, and emotional beats all worked so well. I was giddy everytime Griffin and Layla were interacting.
I think Clayborn really spends time focusing less on dialogue, and more on making sure the reader really understands what the characters are thinking and feeling. They were so many lines of inner dialogue that had me stop in my tracks. I will say, however, there were certain points when it felt like it got a little repetitive, but it didn’t bother me too much.
Overall I really loved this story. I was captivated by us readers being taken to Paris, the sizzling chemistry between Griffey and Layla, and raw emotion packed into this novel.
Thank you Berkley and Netgalley for this ARC!
I think Clayborn really spends time focusing less on dialogue, and more on making sure the reader really understands what the characters are thinking and feeling. They were so many lines of inner dialogue that had me stop in my tracks. I will say, however, there were certain points when it felt like it got a little repetitive, but it didn’t bother me too much.
Overall I really loved this story. I was captivated by us readers being taken to Paris, the sizzling chemistry between Griffey and Layla, and raw emotion packed into this novel.
Thank you Berkley and Netgalley for this ARC!
November 21, 2025
this was really nice!
kate clayborn is one of those authors who creates a very distinct story that does not always feel like just a romance that tugs at readers’ heartstrings. i always think she is for the emily henry and ashley poston fans and vice versa, and that stays true with this work as well.
layla and griffin were well-developed characters, and using the backdrop of paris to focus on their connection was very well-done. but i feel, despite the complex characterization and potential for the strenuous and complex relationships they had with others (michael, emily, both families, etc.), sometimes layla and griffin still felt underdeveloped. i might not make sense at all, but that whiplash was what i felt while turning every page, invested and eager.
and even as the pacing sometimes confused me and the ending felt underwhelming, i was totally entranced by the way layla and griffin connected. their love made sense. it was quiet. it was soft. it was like the sunlight that surrounds you after you exit a coffee shop with the best pains au chocolat.
thank you to netgalley and berkley publishing for the ARC!!
kate clayborn is one of those authors who creates a very distinct story that does not always feel like just a romance that tugs at readers’ heartstrings. i always think she is for the emily henry and ashley poston fans and vice versa, and that stays true with this work as well.
layla and griffin were well-developed characters, and using the backdrop of paris to focus on their connection was very well-done. but i feel, despite the complex characterization and potential for the strenuous and complex relationships they had with others (michael, emily, both families, etc.), sometimes layla and griffin still felt underdeveloped. i might not make sense at all, but that whiplash was what i felt while turning every page, invested and eager.
and even as the pacing sometimes confused me and the ending felt underwhelming, i was totally entranced by the way layla and griffin connected. their love made sense. it was quiet. it was soft. it was like the sunlight that surrounds you after you exit a coffee shop with the best pains au chocolat.
thank you to netgalley and berkley publishing for the ARC!!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I don't consider my self a lucky person, but then sometimes the universe proves me wrong.
I'm lucky enough to know how talented Kate Clayborn is as a writer and story teller from previous books I've read. I knew the book was going to be magnificent from the moment I read the synopsis and I stand by that having finished it. I'm still processing but know it'll be a favorite for me.
Griffin and Layla will steal your heart like they did mine. See you all in Paris!
I'm lucky enough to know how talented Kate Clayborn is as a writer and story teller from previous books I've read. I knew the book was going to be magnificent from the moment I read the synopsis and I stand by that having finished it. I'm still processing but know it'll be a favorite for me.
Griffin and Layla will steal your heart like they did mine. See you all in Paris!
did-not-finish
February 7, 2026(free review copy) I think I just need to accept that Kate Clayborn's recent work just isn't for me ~ DNF'ed this at 50%. If she could use 10 words to describe something, she uses three paragraphs, and I finally quit this when I was skimming so very much of the text just to get to the next thing. She has devoted readers, but I am sad to say I'm no longer one of them.
Source: free digital review copy via Edelweiss
Source: free digital review copy via Edelweiss
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