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Meet Me in Paris
Nine Americans in Paris. Seven intertwined love stories. One City of Light.
Love Actually meets The Notebook in a tale of love, loss, and finding your way home, all set over the course of one life-changing week in Paris.
Julia Glover has brought her twenty-three-year-old daughter, Piper, to Paris for the first time—but they know it will also be their last trip here together. Julia is dying, and as the mother and daughter desperately try to make memories together as the clock ticks down, the world opens up around them. Piper meets a cute French waiter, who might just understand her better than anyone she’s ever met, and Julia meets a man at a dive bar and struggles with how to tell him the truth about her future.
Rock star Jackson Quick’s glory days are behind him. He had a handful of hit songs thirty years ago, but he hasn’t toured in a decade. This week, he’ll launch his reunion tour in Paris, the city where it all began. But he wants more out of life than being defined by fame. When he meets a woman who finally sees him for who he is at his core, the ground shifts beneath his feet.
Henry McGee has been writing hit songs for decades—including Jackson Quick’s biggest hit, City of Light. But his secret is that every love song he’s ever written is for a woman named Celeste, whom he loved a lifetime ago, when they were both teenagers in Paris during World War II. He has spent eighty years believing she died—but when a letter arrives telling him the opposite, he’s on the first flight to France. Can he break through the haze of her dementia, using the songs he’s written all these years, to remind her of who they once were to each other—and to tell her he came back for her?
Henry’s granddaughter, Melody, has just discovered that her husband of twenty years, Gilles, a French cosmetics executive, is having an affair. When she confronts him, he tearfully apologizes and begs her to forgive him. But can she? And, perhaps even more importantly, does she want to? Or is there a different kind of life out there for her if she chooses to be alone?
These intertwining stories—plus several others—unfold over a few breathtaking spring days, as an unforgettable group of Americans in Paris must find their way to their own versions of happily ever after in the City of Light.
Love Actually meets The Notebook in a tale of love, loss, and finding your way home, all set over the course of one life-changing week in Paris.
Julia Glover has brought her twenty-three-year-old daughter, Piper, to Paris for the first time—but they know it will also be their last trip here together. Julia is dying, and as the mother and daughter desperately try to make memories together as the clock ticks down, the world opens up around them. Piper meets a cute French waiter, who might just understand her better than anyone she’s ever met, and Julia meets a man at a dive bar and struggles with how to tell him the truth about her future.
Rock star Jackson Quick’s glory days are behind him. He had a handful of hit songs thirty years ago, but he hasn’t toured in a decade. This week, he’ll launch his reunion tour in Paris, the city where it all began. But he wants more out of life than being defined by fame. When he meets a woman who finally sees him for who he is at his core, the ground shifts beneath his feet.
Henry McGee has been writing hit songs for decades—including Jackson Quick’s biggest hit, City of Light. But his secret is that every love song he’s ever written is for a woman named Celeste, whom he loved a lifetime ago, when they were both teenagers in Paris during World War II. He has spent eighty years believing she died—but when a letter arrives telling him the opposite, he’s on the first flight to France. Can he break through the haze of her dementia, using the songs he’s written all these years, to remind her of who they once were to each other—and to tell her he came back for her?
Henry’s granddaughter, Melody, has just discovered that her husband of twenty years, Gilles, a French cosmetics executive, is having an affair. When she confronts him, he tearfully apologizes and begs her to forgive him. But can she? And, perhaps even more importantly, does she want to? Or is there a different kind of life out there for her if she chooses to be alone?
These intertwining stories—plus several others—unfold over a few breathtaking spring days, as an unforgettable group of Americans in Paris must find their way to their own versions of happily ever after in the City of Light.
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 28, 2026
About the author
Kristin Harmel
29 books18.3k followersKristin Harmel is the New York Times bestselling, USA Today bestselling, and #1 international bestselling author of The Paris Daughter, The Forest of Vanishing Stars, The Book of Lost Names, The Winemaker’s Wife, and a dozen other novels that have been translated into more than 30 languages and are sold all over the world.
Kristin has been writing professionally since the age of 16, when she began her career as a sportswriter, covering Major League Baseball and NHL hockey for a local magazine in Tampa Bay, Florida in the late 1990s. In addition to a long magazine writing career, primarily writing and reporting for PEOPLE magazine (as well as articles published in numerous other magazines, including American Baby, Men’s Health, Woman’s Day, and more), Kristin was also a frequent contributor to the national television morning show The Daily Buzz. She sold her first novel in 2004, and it debuted in February 2006.
Kristin was born just outside Boston, Massachusetts and spent her childhood there, as well as in Worthington, Ohio, and St. Petersburg, Florida. After graduating with a degree in journalism (with a minor in Spanish) from the University of Florida, she spent time living in Paris and Los Angeles and now lives in Orlando, with her husband and young son. She is also the co-founder and co-host of the popular weekly web show and podcast Friends & Fiction.
Kristin has been writing professionally since the age of 16, when she began her career as a sportswriter, covering Major League Baseball and NHL hockey for a local magazine in Tampa Bay, Florida in the late 1990s. In addition to a long magazine writing career, primarily writing and reporting for PEOPLE magazine (as well as articles published in numerous other magazines, including American Baby, Men’s Health, Woman’s Day, and more), Kristin was also a frequent contributor to the national television morning show The Daily Buzz. She sold her first novel in 2004, and it debuted in February 2006.
Kristin was born just outside Boston, Massachusetts and spent her childhood there, as well as in Worthington, Ohio, and St. Petersburg, Florida. After graduating with a degree in journalism (with a minor in Spanish) from the University of Florida, she spent time living in Paris and Los Angeles and now lives in Orlando, with her husband and young son. She is also the co-founder and co-host of the popular weekly web show and podcast Friends & Fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 789 reviews
August 9, 2026
3.5-4! Going to think on it
The Notebook meets Love, Actually. Nine Americans in Paris. Seven intertwined love stories. One City of Light.
This sounds magical.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Gallery Books and the author, Kristin Harmel for an early ARC!
Publication date: July 28, 2026
The Notebook meets Love, Actually. Nine Americans in Paris. Seven intertwined love stories. One City of Light.
This sounds magical.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Gallery Books and the author, Kristin Harmel for an early ARC!
Publication date: July 28, 2026
August 2, 2026
3.5 ⭐ (rounded to 4)
This story will enchant those who aren’t intimidated by a large cast of characters and enjoy being immersed in a character-driven novel. If you enjoyed Love Actually, this novel was inspired by that storyline. If you are familiar with the author’s recent ‘battle’, you’ll understand her nod to it with one of her characters.
Kristin Harmel has crafted some of the most memorable characters; they’re so detailed and nuanced they feel real. Some are dealing with loss and looking for love; some come to Paris carrying heavy burdens; some need encouragement to be a light; some want to be seen for who they really are, and they are all hoping to grasp happiness. You’ll get 7 intertwining love stories set against the city of love and lights over one week. To tell you any more would be a disservice.
Although I prefer Harmel’s historical fiction, this was a welcome diversion.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
This story will enchant those who aren’t intimidated by a large cast of characters and enjoy being immersed in a character-driven novel. If you enjoyed Love Actually, this novel was inspired by that storyline. If you are familiar with the author’s recent ‘battle’, you’ll understand her nod to it with one of her characters.
Kristin Harmel has crafted some of the most memorable characters; they’re so detailed and nuanced they feel real. Some are dealing with loss and looking for love; some come to Paris carrying heavy burdens; some need encouragement to be a light; some want to be seen for who they really are, and they are all hoping to grasp happiness. You’ll get 7 intertwining love stories set against the city of love and lights over one week. To tell you any more would be a disservice.
Although I prefer Harmel’s historical fiction, this was a welcome diversion.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
August 1, 2026
Wherever you are in the world, and wherever you are in your life, you have the right to choose happiness— and to pursue your own happily ever after with your whole heart. Author's Note 99%
A contemporary novel about a group of strangers- all Americans, from different walks of life who find themselves in Paris and unexpectedly find love. Taking a break from historical fiction and setting a Love Actually type of tale in her favourite city (Kristin Harmel lived in Paris for a time) was an absolutely captivating novel. I began reading this last night before bed, and if I hadn't lost the battle with fatigue, I would have finished it last night. But it was the first thing I reached for today. Like the author, I, too, enjoy Love Actually, so this multi-character storyline where many characters intersect as strangers suited me. Hard to pick a fave storyline. Oh, who am I kidding? It was the two American veterans who served in Vietnam- George and Leo!
Publication Date 28/07/26
Goodreads Review 28/07/26
Thanks to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Canada for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
A contemporary novel about a group of strangers- all Americans, from different walks of life who find themselves in Paris and unexpectedly find love. Taking a break from historical fiction and setting a Love Actually type of tale in her favourite city (Kristin Harmel lived in Paris for a time) was an absolutely captivating novel. I began reading this last night before bed, and if I hadn't lost the battle with fatigue, I would have finished it last night. But it was the first thing I reached for today. Like the author, I, too, enjoy Love Actually, so this multi-character storyline where many characters intersect as strangers suited me. Hard to pick a fave storyline. Oh, who am I kidding? It was the two American veterans who served in Vietnam- George and Leo!
Publication Date 28/07/26
Goodreads Review 28/07/26
Thanks to NetGalley and Simon and Schuster Canada for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 9, 2026
Set in Paris, the City of Light and Love, this sweet and charming novel brings together seven intertwining love stories. From strangers unexpectedly crossing paths and falling in love to old flames reuniting at various ages and stages in life, each arc brings its own unique warmth and emotional depth to the page. It's a lovely, heart-warming read that captures the magic, romance, and serendipity of Paris beautifully!
July 31, 2026
This is Kristin Harmel’s first foray into contemporary fiction, outside of her successful historical fiction novels. I’ve enjoyed quite a few of them, especially Colette.Marceau.
Meet me in Paris is about seven. People are all connected in someway during 10 days in Paris. Well, there are seven different storylines, I was never confused.Harmel makes it easy for you to understand who is who and what their individual plot lines are. However, the multiple storylines was not the issue, the main problem was that the first 20% is all you need to read, and then you can jump to the last 15% and know exactly what happened and not miss a beat.
The story was so predictable, so basic and so much eye rolling. There’s no subtlety or drama, nothing that will shock you.
Just your basic run-of-the-mill contemporary women’s fiction that I wish I had skipped.
Meet me in Paris is about seven. People are all connected in someway during 10 days in Paris. Well, there are seven different storylines, I was never confused.Harmel makes it easy for you to understand who is who and what their individual plot lines are. However, the multiple storylines was not the issue, the main problem was that the first 20% is all you need to read, and then you can jump to the last 15% and know exactly what happened and not miss a beat.
The story was so predictable, so basic and so much eye rolling. There’s no subtlety or drama, nothing that will shock you.
Just your basic run-of-the-mill contemporary women’s fiction that I wish I had skipped.
July 28, 2026
Meet Me in Paris
By: Kristin Harmel
Pub Date: July 28, 2026
Publisher: Gallery Books
Some days are like Christmas. When I saw Harmel’s book was on Netgalley, I ran immediately and requested. She is one of my favorite authors and her books are always the perfect reads.
Paris is the fabulous city this novel’s stories are brought to live featuring nine Americans.
As the stories unfold, we will delve in the personal lives of a mother/daughter, a former rock star, a song writer, a lost love, and a husband and wife who are struggling.
Every story had me completely invested in their truths, struggles, emotions and wanted the best outcome for each. This novel had some hard subjects like death, infidelity, tough medical diagnosis and trust issues.
Every book Harmel writes a unique and emotional novel and I AM ALL IN!
By: Kristin Harmel
Pub Date: July 28, 2026
Publisher: Gallery Books
Some days are like Christmas. When I saw Harmel’s book was on Netgalley, I ran immediately and requested. She is one of my favorite authors and her books are always the perfect reads.
Paris is the fabulous city this novel’s stories are brought to live featuring nine Americans.
As the stories unfold, we will delve in the personal lives of a mother/daughter, a former rock star, a song writer, a lost love, and a husband and wife who are struggling.
Every story had me completely invested in their truths, struggles, emotions and wanted the best outcome for each. This novel had some hard subjects like death, infidelity, tough medical diagnosis and trust issues.
Every book Harmel writes a unique and emotional novel and I AM ALL IN!
August 4, 2026
'Take some chances! Life isn't just about making all the smart, safe moves'.
Inspired by Kristin Harmel's own experiences of living in Paris, 'Meet Me in Paris' has been aptly compared to 'Love Actually'. Following a group of Americans whose lives unexpectedly intersect in the City of Light, it explores love in all its forms—new love, lost love, family, friendship and, perhaps most importantly, learning to love the life you choose for yourself.
‘...there may be sadness in the world, but there's always joy, too, right around the corner. You just have to keep walking until you find it.’
At its heart, this is a story about embracing opportunities, remaining hopeful through life's disappointments, and recognising that every person we meet leaves us changed in some way. Some arrive for a lifetime, while others simply help us find the courage to take the next step.
The story continually flits between its many characters and interconnected storylines, making it occasionally difficult to keep everyone straight, while many of the plot developments are predictable. Even so, its warmth, optimism and feel-good message make it an enjoyable, life-affirming read.
'Sometimes people come into our lives to show us the way to the next step instead of staying around forever.'
Inspired by Kristin Harmel's own experiences of living in Paris, 'Meet Me in Paris' has been aptly compared to 'Love Actually'. Following a group of Americans whose lives unexpectedly intersect in the City of Light, it explores love in all its forms—new love, lost love, family, friendship and, perhaps most importantly, learning to love the life you choose for yourself.
‘...there may be sadness in the world, but there's always joy, too, right around the corner. You just have to keep walking until you find it.’
At its heart, this is a story about embracing opportunities, remaining hopeful through life's disappointments, and recognising that every person we meet leaves us changed in some way. Some arrive for a lifetime, while others simply help us find the courage to take the next step.
The story continually flits between its many characters and interconnected storylines, making it occasionally difficult to keep everyone straight, while many of the plot developments are predictable. Even so, its warmth, optimism and feel-good message make it an enjoyable, life-affirming read.
'Sometimes people come into our lives to show us the way to the next step instead of staying around forever.'
August 2, 2026
Following seven love stories over the course of an unforgettable week, Meet Me in Paris intertwines a large cast to explore love and lost in the famed city. Nine Americans, each with a unique reason, find their stories overlapping. Though one of the core storylines is rooted in a romance that began during World War Two, the novel remains in the present, being Kristin Harmel's first work of contemporary fiction.
Our key cast includes Henry and Celeste, who met as young adults during WW2. Now almost a hundred years old, they have the chance to reconnect after mistakenly thinking the other had died. Only, Celeste has dementia, and Henry must reach her through song. Also featured are mother and daughter- Julia and Piper- visiting the city before Julia dies to cancer. Piper connects with a French waiter, and Julia with an aging rock star.
To add to that, the novel follows the love lives of Henry's granddaughter (Melody), two gay veterans (George and Lou), Celeste's caretaker, a divorced woman visiting the city, and an Australian bar owner. However, with such a large cast, there was too much coincidental timing to make their stories all overlap. In some ways, things became so convenient in how the characters met. Somehow, it felt less believable than a Star Wars movie.
To follow the narrative, I really had to suspend some belief. For example, the key character, Henry, was nearly a hundred years old though we saw him run and perform at a concert. As a whole, the novel was hard to take seriously, with the dialogue becoming so cliche. All of the "bad" characters behaved like the bullies in a Disney show, saying things you would hear on a middle school playground. I could not get behind the writing of the characters, thinking it seemed almost done by a toddler.
What this novel did well at was making readers feel the pull of Paris. I remember as a little girl I was obsessed with the city, and this brought back fun recollections. The picture is painted on the rosier side, making this a light hearted read. It was simply too surface level and convenient to truly connect with.
Thank you to NetGallery and Gallery Books for this advanced copy!
Our key cast includes Henry and Celeste, who met as young adults during WW2. Now almost a hundred years old, they have the chance to reconnect after mistakenly thinking the other had died. Only, Celeste has dementia, and Henry must reach her through song. Also featured are mother and daughter- Julia and Piper- visiting the city before Julia dies to cancer. Piper connects with a French waiter, and Julia with an aging rock star.
To add to that, the novel follows the love lives of Henry's granddaughter (Melody), two gay veterans (George and Lou), Celeste's caretaker, a divorced woman visiting the city, and an Australian bar owner. However, with such a large cast, there was too much coincidental timing to make their stories all overlap. In some ways, things became so convenient in how the characters met. Somehow, it felt less believable than a Star Wars movie.
To follow the narrative, I really had to suspend some belief. For example, the key character, Henry, was nearly a hundred years old though we saw him run and perform at a concert. As a whole, the novel was hard to take seriously, with the dialogue becoming so cliche. All of the "bad" characters behaved like the bullies in a Disney show, saying things you would hear on a middle school playground. I could not get behind the writing of the characters, thinking it seemed almost done by a toddler.
What this novel did well at was making readers feel the pull of Paris. I remember as a little girl I was obsessed with the city, and this brought back fun recollections. The picture is painted on the rosier side, making this a light hearted read. It was simply too surface level and convenient to truly connect with.
Thank you to NetGallery and Gallery Books for this advanced copy!
January 26, 2026
I sobbed like a baby and I’m gonna need a minute to emotionally recover from the heartbreak that is this book.
July 31, 2026
PUBLISH DATE: July 28, 2026
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****I HAVE NOT STARTED OR COMPLETED THIS BOOK PRIOR TO PUBLICATION DATE. WILL REVIEW WHEN ABLE TO FINISH****
*****4 STAR RATING AT THIS TIME AS IT IS THE AVERAGE RATING AT THE TIME OF PUBLICATION*****
--------------------------------------------
PUBLISH DATE: July 28, 2026
BOOK TITLE: Meet Me in Paris
AUTHOR: Kristin Harmel
Gallery Books
FORMAT: ebook
PAGES: 368
I received a complimentary digital ARC [Advanced Readers Copy] of this book via NetGalley. Thank you to the Publisher and the Author for the opportunity to read and review this title prior to publication. As always, the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
--------------------------------------------
****I HAVE NOT STARTED OR COMPLETED THIS BOOK PRIOR TO PUBLICATION DATE. WILL REVIEW WHEN ABLE TO FINISH****
*****4 STAR RATING AT THIS TIME AS IT IS THE AVERAGE RATING AT THE TIME OF PUBLICATION*****
--------------------------------------------
PUBLISH DATE: July 28, 2026
BOOK TITLE: Meet Me in Paris
AUTHOR: Kristin Harmel
Gallery Books
FORMAT: ebook
PAGES: 368
I received a complimentary digital ARC [Advanced Readers Copy] of this book via NetGalley. Thank you to the Publisher and the Author for the opportunity to read and review this title prior to publication. As always, the opinions expressed in this review are my own.
August 4, 2026
This is a story that truly makes you believe in love. Set against the stunning backdrop of Paris, the novel follows a group of people whose lives intertwine as they each journey through the city for deeply personal reasons.
We meet Henry, an elderly man searching for his long-lost love and trying to make her remember who he is as she suffers from Dementia; a gay couple who fought together in World War II and are only now finding the courage to live openly; Melody, who realizes she needs more from her marriage; Julia, who is facing cancer and taking one final trip with her daughter, Piper.
Each storyline is beautifully written, filled with emotion, hope, and resilience. The way these seemingly separate lives come together is incredibly powerful and moving. Every character brings a unique perspective, yet they are all connected by love in its many forms—romantic, familial, and self-love.
Heartfelt, inspiring, and unforgettable, this is a novel that stays with you long after the final page.
We meet Henry, an elderly man searching for his long-lost love and trying to make her remember who he is as she suffers from Dementia; a gay couple who fought together in World War II and are only now finding the courage to live openly; Melody, who realizes she needs more from her marriage; Julia, who is facing cancer and taking one final trip with her daughter, Piper.
Each storyline is beautifully written, filled with emotion, hope, and resilience. The way these seemingly separate lives come together is incredibly powerful and moving. Every character brings a unique perspective, yet they are all connected by love in its many forms—romantic, familial, and self-love.
Heartfelt, inspiring, and unforgettable, this is a novel that stays with you long after the final page.
August 6, 2026
Okay, I should really read the synopsis before reading books. I really thought this was going to be a "normal" historical fiction since that's what Kristin Harmel usually writes. What I got was a blend of love stories of several American tourists who were in Paris during the same span of a week, very similar to Love Actually.
Overall, I'd give this book 4 stars, it was a really good vacation read. I really liked how interwoven these characters became and how crucial of a part they played in each other's lives. Every character was going through something different and difficult, and they were all like ships passing in the night. Whether they passed by each other, overheard a conversion, or met that right person during the right time in their lives. While I really enjoyed the book and the individual stories, everything felt too cliche and a little too predictable.
*Insta-love
*Travel
*Paris
*Divorce
*Lost love
*Terminal cancer/Impending grief
*Life changes
Format: ebook
Thank you NetGalley, Kristin Harmel, Gallery Books and for the ARC!
Julia Glover - 49, terminal cancer
Piper - 23, Julia’s daughter, mom and dad split when she was 10
Henry McGee - thought Celeste Didier had been imprisoned and executed during the war but she lived
Melanie Chauley - Henry’s granddaughter, married to Gilles, found out that her husband has been cheating
George Gallagher and Lou Robinson - besties, both widowed, met while they were serving during Vietnam
Jackson Quick - pop star who was popular during the 90s, performing in Paris
Kayla - Celeste's nurse
Overall, I'd give this book 4 stars, it was a really good vacation read. I really liked how interwoven these characters became and how crucial of a part they played in each other's lives. Every character was going through something different and difficult, and they were all like ships passing in the night. Whether they passed by each other, overheard a conversion, or met that right person during the right time in their lives. While I really enjoyed the book and the individual stories, everything felt too cliche and a little too predictable.
*Insta-love
*Travel
*Paris
*Divorce
*Lost love
*Terminal cancer/Impending grief
*Life changes
Format: ebook
Thank you NetGalley, Kristin Harmel, Gallery Books and for the ARC!
Julia Glover - 49, terminal cancer
Piper - 23, Julia’s daughter, mom and dad split when she was 10
Henry McGee - thought Celeste Didier had been imprisoned and executed during the war but she lived
Melanie Chauley - Henry’s granddaughter, married to Gilles, found out that her husband has been cheating
George Gallagher and Lou Robinson - besties, both widowed, met while they were serving during Vietnam
Jackson Quick - pop star who was popular during the 90s, performing in Paris
Kayla - Celeste's nurse
August 4, 2026
This is NOT a historical novel.
Meet Me In Paris is a contemporary chick-lit/ romantic novel set in Paris.
There are many characters, including nine Americans, which was not an issue for me.
Hope is important.
As hard as it may seem. light (even if it’s a glimmer) can always be found in the darkness.
This novel was a departure from Kristin Harmel’s typical historical fiction. Still, it was a nice change of pace.
I watched some interviews with Kristin Harmel about Meet Me In Paris.
Harmel is one of team of podcasters of Friends And Fiction with a weekly episode. [See the episode from July 21, dropped July 23, 2026, featuring Meet Me In Paris & Kristin Harmel.]
Also, John Charles interviewed Kristin Harmel at The Poisoned Pen Bookstore on August 1, 2026.
The above, plus others interviews, can be found on social media outlets.
I am looking forward to Kristin Harmel’s next historical fiction novel to be released in 2027 🤞🏼.
Meet Me In Paris is a contemporary chick-lit/ romantic novel set in Paris.
There are many characters, including nine Americans, which was not an issue for me.
Hope is important.
As hard as it may seem. light (even if it’s a glimmer) can always be found in the darkness.
This novel was a departure from Kristin Harmel’s typical historical fiction. Still, it was a nice change of pace.
I watched some interviews with Kristin Harmel about Meet Me In Paris.
Harmel is one of team of podcasters of Friends And Fiction with a weekly episode. [See the episode from July 21, dropped July 23, 2026, featuring Meet Me In Paris & Kristin Harmel.]
Also, John Charles interviewed Kristin Harmel at The Poisoned Pen Bookstore on August 1, 2026.
The above, plus others interviews, can be found on social media outlets.
I am looking forward to Kristin Harmel’s next historical fiction novel to be released in 2027 🤞🏼.
August 4, 2026
Meet Me In Paris is a book that will have you feeling every emotion. There are so many touching moments in this book that you'll still be feeling things after you finish it. I immediately related to many of the characters and what they were going through. Kristin Harmel has a way of creating characters that you feel you know or want to know. This is a special book that I can't recommend highly enough. Yes, there are many storylines to keep track of, but it will be well worth it at the end! Now I need to find a way to get to Paris! Who's with me?
July 25, 2026
This was such a pleasant change in genres from one of my favorite historical fiction writers!
I love how the lives of nine Americans in Paris intertwine as they each find their way through love, loss and eventually, happily ever after. I was equally interested in all their stories/POVs. MEET ME IN PARIS will definitely tug at your heart strings!
I love how the lives of nine Americans in Paris intertwine as they each find their way through love, loss and eventually, happily ever after. I was equally interested in all their stories/POVs. MEET ME IN PARIS will definitely tug at your heart strings!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I was lucky to get an Advance Reader's Copy of Kristin Harmel's Meet Me in Paris, a work of contemporary literary fiction which will be on sale in late July.
The novel follows nine Americans in Paris, their stories cleverly intertwining, as they make connections and soul search for the meaning of true happiness and love.
Kristin Harmel paints an unforgettable picture of The City of Light, giving the reader a tour of the sights that is vividly beautiful. She brings you into hotels, bars, and bistros that welcome you warmly, making you feel like you are sharing space with the characters.
Themes of sadness, joy, self-discovery, and the complexity of love, friendship, family, and relationships are masterfully woven throughout the stories. The reader falls in love with the characters, and with Harmel's Paris.
Readers familiar with Harmel's historical fiction will find a comfortable familiarity as the Vietnam War and WWII are referenced, giving the reader a glimpse of discovering a picture of history that only Kristin Harmel can bring to the page.
I couldn't put the book down, staying up well past my bedtime, emotionally attached to the characters, wanting each to find their true happiness. Thank you, Kristin Harmel, for another beautiful novel.
The novel follows nine Americans in Paris, their stories cleverly intertwining, as they make connections and soul search for the meaning of true happiness and love.
Kristin Harmel paints an unforgettable picture of The City of Light, giving the reader a tour of the sights that is vividly beautiful. She brings you into hotels, bars, and bistros that welcome you warmly, making you feel like you are sharing space with the characters.
Themes of sadness, joy, self-discovery, and the complexity of love, friendship, family, and relationships are masterfully woven throughout the stories. The reader falls in love with the characters, and with Harmel's Paris.
Readers familiar with Harmel's historical fiction will find a comfortable familiarity as the Vietnam War and WWII are referenced, giving the reader a glimpse of discovering a picture of history that only Kristin Harmel can bring to the page.
I couldn't put the book down, staying up well past my bedtime, emotionally attached to the characters, wanting each to find their true happiness. Thank you, Kristin Harmel, for another beautiful novel.
January 30, 2026
MEET ME IN PARIS by Kristen Harmel ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 Kristen Harmel is one of my favorite authors so I was thrilled to get my hands on this book! But! This one is not a historical fiction like she typically writes (fyi). This book has multiple storylines going on that are heartfelt, human, and full of emotional depth. The setting was so magical and had me pulling up my delta app to check flights. Unfortunately, the multiple (I believe there were 7?) storylines were a liiittle bit too many for me. I connected with some more than others, and absolutely loved Piper and her Mom!
Pub. Date: July 28, 2026.
Perfect if you like:
•Paris!!
•Interwoven storylines.
•Love and loss.
•Quick love connections.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice: 🌶️ (implied intimacy)
Mood: 🌮🍞
Pub. Date: July 28, 2026.
Perfect if you like:
•Paris!!
•Interwoven storylines.
•Love and loss.
•Quick love connections.
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice: 🌶️ (implied intimacy)
Mood: 🌮🍞
June 25, 2026
Thank you for the ARC! I love Kristin Harmel and I especially love her historical fiction books. This was not that genre. It was like the movie Love Actually (I spotted that before the author note!) and there were many characters and story lines to follow. I found it hard to keep up and connect with any. The writing was excellent as usual. The Paris backdrop was superb and I can’t wait to visit! I will keep reading anything by Harmel but this one just wasn’t my favourite.
July 6, 2026
I loved, loved, loved this book! Kristin Harmel is a favorite author of mine. I have read most of her historical fiction books. This book is a present day novel with some references back to WWII in the memories of a couple of the main characters. There were several story lines that overlap in very interesting ways. The one storyline that touched the most characters was about a rockstar that became famous with the song “City of Light.” This is the most famous nickname for Paris. Harmel does a great job incorporating all things Paris in this book. I loved the setting. I loved the characters. I couldn’t put this book down once I realized how the stories were going to intersect. I highly recommend this book that gives you all the feels.
Thanks to Kristin Harmel, Net Galley and the publisher for the eARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
Thanks to Kristin Harmel, Net Galley and the publisher for the eARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 17, 2026
I’m torn on how to rate this. But am leaning towards a 3⭐️. I enjoyed reading about Paris and feeling like I was there with these characters. But I never quite got hooked on any particular characters plot line. I almost think there were too many happening at once. Even so, her writing is easy to read and there were still good moments throughout. It just didn’t entirely work for me. I was for sure invested in certain characters more than others. But wished those others had been explored deeper and this book just didn’t allow for that. I also found the way each storyline wrapped up to be just a bit too easy. I’ll never stop reading Kristin Harmel books though, and I can’t wait for her next one to come out since she mentions in the authors note that she will be getting back to the historical fiction genre. And if you’re a fan of Love Actually, this book is one I for sure recommend!
Huge thank you to NetGalley and Gallery books for the advance copy.
Huge thank you to NetGalley and Gallery books for the advance copy.
May 28, 2026
Kristin Harmel is one of my favorites! Where her books are usually historical fiction, this book was set in present day Paris, where she has a number of Americans visiting at the same time. The story goes back & forth between the different people visiting Paris, and it is quite interesting to see how all of their stories will somewhat converge. I enjoyed all of the different stories involved. At the core of it all is that everyone deserves to be happy & to be loved just the way they are. And what better place than Paris to find that happiness and sense of adventure.
Many thanks to NetGalley & Gallery Books for the opportunity to read an eARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinions.
Many thanks to NetGalley & Gallery Books for the opportunity to read an eARC of this book in exchange for my honest opinions.
August 6, 2026
*audiobook / hardback
🇫🇷❤️𝑩𝑶𝑶𝑲 𝑹𝑬𝑽𝑰𝑬𝑾❤️🇫🇷
MEET ME IN PARIS
by
KRISTIN HARMEL
Publisher: Gallery Books / Simon Audio
Pub Date: 07/28/2026
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
TW: Pancreatic Cancer (🖕🏻cancer btw)
“The world’s changing…CATCH UP!” I loved this for Kayla.
“You can never regret honesty.”
“Beside you always, the world so bright, together forever, you’re my City of Light.”
WOW! I was totally engrossed in this novel. I mean I finished in under 24 hours. It was so beautiful and I loved these characters as well as the audio narration. This book is a bit out of the genre I typically gravitate towards and I think it’s in my top 5 for this year.
I don’t even know how to summarize this except for it’s like you’re walking through the streets of Paris with these 9 Americans all of which have such interesting stories. The cool thing about this one is all the stories are interconnected. Each story is so interesting and I just wanted everything to work out for everyone.
They are stories of growth and standing up for what you want your life to be and cherishing the moments that matter even when they are fleeting and even if you don’t have a lot of time. This is a touching tale of love in all forms & durations.
It’s so hard to pick a favorite character but I think Julia & her daughter Piper and Celeste & Henry were my top fav storylines but they were all so good. I smiled, I chuckled, I swooned and I cried all variations of tears.
I loved the nod to Shakespeare & Company and now WHEN I return to Paris I’ll have to stop in. Annnnd now I wanna go back to Paris.
This would be a phenomenal movie. Omg the please give us a movie.
Loved it and highly recommend it.
QOTD: Tell me a few fav books you’ve read recently.
#meetmeinparis #kristinharmel #gallerybooks #simonaudio #simonaudioinfluencer
🇫🇷❤️𝑩𝑶𝑶𝑲 𝑹𝑬𝑽𝑰𝑬𝑾❤️🇫🇷
MEET ME IN PARIS
by
KRISTIN HARMEL
Publisher: Gallery Books / Simon Audio
Pub Date: 07/28/2026
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5/5)
TW: Pancreatic Cancer (🖕🏻cancer btw)
“The world’s changing…CATCH UP!” I loved this for Kayla.
“You can never regret honesty.”
“Beside you always, the world so bright, together forever, you’re my City of Light.”
WOW! I was totally engrossed in this novel. I mean I finished in under 24 hours. It was so beautiful and I loved these characters as well as the audio narration. This book is a bit out of the genre I typically gravitate towards and I think it’s in my top 5 for this year.
I don’t even know how to summarize this except for it’s like you’re walking through the streets of Paris with these 9 Americans all of which have such interesting stories. The cool thing about this one is all the stories are interconnected. Each story is so interesting and I just wanted everything to work out for everyone.
They are stories of growth and standing up for what you want your life to be and cherishing the moments that matter even when they are fleeting and even if you don’t have a lot of time. This is a touching tale of love in all forms & durations.
It’s so hard to pick a favorite character but I think Julia & her daughter Piper and Celeste & Henry were my top fav storylines but they were all so good. I smiled, I chuckled, I swooned and I cried all variations of tears.
I loved the nod to Shakespeare & Company and now WHEN I return to Paris I’ll have to stop in. Annnnd now I wanna go back to Paris.
This would be a phenomenal movie. Omg the please give us a movie.
Loved it and highly recommend it.
QOTD: Tell me a few fav books you’ve read recently.
#meetmeinparis #kristinharmel #gallerybooks #simonaudio #simonaudioinfluencer
August 1, 2026
This book deserves 10 stars! “Together forever, you’re my City of Light.” I loved how this was written. The different POVs kept me so engaged, the love stories, the stories of finding your true self, made this the best romance book I have ever read! Romance isn’t my top go to read, but I wish I could read this book all over again!
August 9, 2026
The easiest 5* I’ve had in a while! I absolutely adored this story. Far fetched in places and romanticised but such lovely stories and characters (mostly! Hated Gilles and Brandon!)! Happy and sad throughout. A really good read, now planning my next trip to Paris!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for sending me a copy of this book.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for sending me a copy of this book.
August 11, 2026
What a beautiful book. I have loved all of her books but this may be my favorite.
August 9, 2026
All the stars! I wasn’t expecting to become so invested in seven different love stories.. but here we are. 🥹 From long-lost wartime love.. to second chances, broken marriages, family bonds, and saying goodbye to someone you aren’t ready to lose.. every storyline brought something different. By the time all the connections came together, I was smiling through tears. One of my favorite Kristin Harmel books. ❤️📖 Pub. 7/28/26
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
First, there are a lot of characters — but the way their stories intertwine is so beautifully done that I found myself completely absorbed. Julia and Piper’s story might be the one that stayed with me the most: a mother and daughter taking their final trip together to Paris. Julia, forty‑nine and dying, holding on to every moment with her daughter… their chapters were tender, aching, and unforgettable.
But then there’s Henry — and his story nearly broke me. A man who spent his entire life believing the love of his life was gone, only to discover she was alive in a care home. He crossed an ocean to see Celeste, who no longer remembered him because of her amnesia. The quiet heartbreak of that reunion… it was devastating and beautiful all at once.
And I can’t forget Jackson Quick — the musician returning to the stage after ten years of silence, stepping into his anniversary concert with all the weight of his past. His story had such a soulful pull.
So yes, there are many characters — but once you settle into their lives, you fall for every single one of them.
I just couldn’t stop reading. Each story was romantic, heartbreaking, or quietly powerful — written with such depth that I felt like I was right there in Paris with them. Wandering through bookstores, sipping coffee in cozy cafés, stepping into bars, and walking around the Notre Dame Cathedral… it all felt vivid, emotional, and alive.
But then there’s Henry — and his story nearly broke me. A man who spent his entire life believing the love of his life was gone, only to discover she was alive in a care home. He crossed an ocean to see Celeste, who no longer remembered him because of her amnesia. The quiet heartbreak of that reunion… it was devastating and beautiful all at once.
And I can’t forget Jackson Quick — the musician returning to the stage after ten years of silence, stepping into his anniversary concert with all the weight of his past. His story had such a soulful pull.
So yes, there are many characters — but once you settle into their lives, you fall for every single one of them.
I just couldn’t stop reading. Each story was romantic, heartbreaking, or quietly powerful — written with such depth that I felt like I was right there in Paris with them. Wandering through bookstores, sipping coffee in cozy cafés, stepping into bars, and walking around the Notre Dame Cathedral… it all felt vivid, emotional, and alive.
August 4, 2026
My first Kristin Harmel book and my first ARC from her... and unfortunately, this one just wasn't for me.
I have to give credit where it's due: the Paris setting was lovely. I visited years ago, so it was fun to revisit familiar streets and landmarks through the story.
That said, I never really connected with the story. There are a lot of characters and storylines. I found the dialogue repetitive and a little too polished. Every character seemed to have exactly the right, perfectly articulated thing to say and after a while it started to feel unrealistic and kind of annoying.
This book also leans hard into Paris being the City of Love and I realized I'm just not a big "everything works out beautifully in the end" kinda person. It was a little too feel-good for my taste. I was also distracted by how often adult women were referred to as "girls". A pet peeve of mine.
I have to give credit where it's due: the Paris setting was lovely. I visited years ago, so it was fun to revisit familiar streets and landmarks through the story.
That said, I never really connected with the story. There are a lot of characters and storylines. I found the dialogue repetitive and a little too polished. Every character seemed to have exactly the right, perfectly articulated thing to say and after a while it started to feel unrealistic and kind of annoying.
This book also leans hard into Paris being the City of Love and I realized I'm just not a big "everything works out beautifully in the end" kinda person. It was a little too feel-good for my taste. I was also distracted by how often adult women were referred to as "girls". A pet peeve of mine.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A short sweet story involving several different characters whose lives loosely intertwine. I loved the relationships throughout this book. friendships, family and love interests. a great clean uplifting read.
August 4, 2026
“It’s never too late for new beginnings”
‼️ The word “love” is going to be mentioned repeatedly ‼️
I’m at loss for words to describe how beautiful love is and how beautifully the author portrayed it with her eloquent writing. Paris - known as The City of Light - brought nine Americans and seven love stories together. There was love at every corner of the book; mom-daughter love, love in finding one’s self, three decades of love, crossing the oceans for love, friends to lovers love and new love at late fifties - along with a little heartbreak too. I loved reading every chapter, loved every character and their emotions and definitely loved the touches of history the book had to offer.
And finally, I would LOVE every reader out there who enjoys romance to give this a try, it sure I hope won’t disappoint you.
‼️ The word “love” is going to be mentioned repeatedly ‼️
I’m at loss for words to describe how beautiful love is and how beautifully the author portrayed it with her eloquent writing. Paris - known as The City of Light - brought nine Americans and seven love stories together. There was love at every corner of the book; mom-daughter love, love in finding one’s self, three decades of love, crossing the oceans for love, friends to lovers love and new love at late fifties - along with a little heartbreak too. I loved reading every chapter, loved every character and their emotions and definitely loved the touches of history the book had to offer.
And finally, I would LOVE every reader out there who enjoys romance to give this a try, it sure I hope won’t disappoint you.
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