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Heart of the City #1
Paris Lights
'You're breaking up with me!'
He was silent.
'In Paris.'
Eyes dropping.
'Under the Eiffel-fucking-Tower!' I screamed.
Twenty-five-year-old Claire Shorten had looked forward to spending a romantic weekend in Paris for as long as she could remember, and now it was here - three blissful days of strolling through cobbled streets arm-in-arm with her beloved, eating copious amounts of baked goods and soaking up the culture through each and every pore of her body. Well, at least, that was how she'd pictured it . . .
Even after her boyfriend dumps her rather unceremoniously in the most romantic place on earth, Claire is determined not to give up on her dream altogether - with or without a boyfriend. She finds herself a job in the kitchen of a small hotel; Michelin-starred it most certainly is not, but somehow Claire makes a place for herself amidst the dirty dishes and the foreign misfits who run the place.
When the restaurant attracts the attention of the enigmatic - if not slightly terrifying - tycoon Louis Delarue, and Claire manages to survive his high-powered business luncheon from hell, she knows that she can survive anything, surely. But all bets are off when Louis makes a game-changing decision: he's coming back for a second course . . .
He was silent.
'In Paris.'
Eyes dropping.
'Under the Eiffel-fucking-Tower!' I screamed.
Twenty-five-year-old Claire Shorten had looked forward to spending a romantic weekend in Paris for as long as she could remember, and now it was here - three blissful days of strolling through cobbled streets arm-in-arm with her beloved, eating copious amounts of baked goods and soaking up the culture through each and every pore of her body. Well, at least, that was how she'd pictured it . . .
Even after her boyfriend dumps her rather unceremoniously in the most romantic place on earth, Claire is determined not to give up on her dream altogether - with or without a boyfriend. She finds herself a job in the kitchen of a small hotel; Michelin-starred it most certainly is not, but somehow Claire makes a place for herself amidst the dirty dishes and the foreign misfits who run the place.
When the restaurant attracts the attention of the enigmatic - if not slightly terrifying - tycoon Louis Delarue, and Claire manages to survive his high-powered business luncheon from hell, she knows that she can survive anything, surely. But all bets are off when Louis makes a game-changing decision: he's coming back for a second course . . .
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 16, 2016
141 people are currently reading
639 people want to read
About the author
C.J. Duggan
29 books1,153 followersCJ Duggan is an internationally best-selling author of contemporary Young Adult and New Adult fiction. From small town dramas to big city dreamers, CJ’s coming-of-age tales are filled with hope and heart, and told by relatable protagonists with strong Australian voices.
A proud Yorta Yorta woman, CJ lives with her husband in a rural border town of New South Wales. When she is not writing you will usually find her rearranging knick-knacks in her home office, or plotting the next weekend escape.
If you love ceramic owls, dusty-pink decor and old typewriters, then CJ wants to be your new best friend.
Follow C.J on her website: www.cjdugganbooks.com
A proud Yorta Yorta woman, CJ lives with her husband in a rural border town of New South Wales. When she is not writing you will usually find her rearranging knick-knacks in her home office, or plotting the next weekend escape.
If you love ceramic owls, dusty-pink decor and old typewriters, then CJ wants to be your new best friend.
Follow C.J on her website: www.cjdugganbooks.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 127 reviews
November 30, 2017
I did not expect to love this book so much omfg
Read
July 22, 2018*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
Passing an afternoon by with a story featuring my all time favourite backdrop, Paris – the City of Lights, was absolutely perfect. Paris Lights, by Australian author C.J. Duggan, is the first book in the Heart of the City series. Each book is a stand alone novel, featuring different characters placed in a stunning location across the globe. Other books in the series travel to New York, London and Rome. A new instalment has recently been released, which set in Hollywood. Some years have passed since I last picked up a C.J. Duggan book. I recall reviewing Paradise City, when it first released back in 2013. Browsing through my downloaded ibooks, I decided to give Paris Lights a try. I had a feeling it wasn’t going to take much for me to like this one. Paris Lights amounted to a surprisingly excellent read for me. I enjoyed the snazzy characters, emotion, romance, kitchen frivolity and of course the wonderfully drawn setting. C.J. Duggan has convinced me to try the follow on books in this series.
Passing an afternoon by with a story featuring my all time favourite backdrop, Paris – the City of Lights, was absolutely perfect. Paris Lights, by Australian author C.J. Duggan, is the first book in the Heart of the City series. Each book is a stand alone novel, featuring different characters placed in a stunning location across the globe. Other books in the series travel to New York, London and Rome. A new instalment has recently been released, which set in Hollywood. Some years have passed since I last picked up a C.J. Duggan book. I recall reviewing Paradise City, when it first released back in 2013. Browsing through my downloaded ibooks, I decided to give Paris Lights a try. I had a feeling it wasn’t going to take much for me to like this one. Paris Lights amounted to a surprisingly excellent read for me. I enjoyed the snazzy characters, emotion, romance, kitchen frivolity and of course the wonderfully drawn setting. C.J. Duggan has convinced me to try the follow on books in this series.
May 18, 2017
Delicacies, Parisian art galleries and boutique hotels but for Claire Shorten, Paris is an experience. Compromising her itinerary to placate Liam, Claire is astonished when her partner declares they should see other people. Claire is devastated and upon returning to the Hotel Trocadero will determine whether to return to London and the apartment she shares with Liam or Melbourne. Stricken and collapsing in the hotel foyer, the hotel personnel places Claire in a new suite at the Trocadero where the twenty five tear old Australian continues to despair. The once grand Hotel Trocadero is a commotion of anxiety and elation as they've been chosen to partake in Renovation or Detonation. Impressing the merciless Louis Delarue is paramount to the Hotel Trocadero's application and with a background in event organising, Claire will guide and motivate hotel personnel as compensation for her accommodation.
Louis Delarue is infuriating and arrogant as he is handsome, wielding wealth and influence as his weapon. Confident, capable and determined, Claire will not become a casualty to anguish, she is tenacious and will reclaim Paris and she most definitely will not succumb to the charm and sex appeal of Louis Delarue.
MY THOUGHTS
Claire is a passive, passionate girl who departed her home town of Melbourne for London to ensure her partner Liam achieved his aspirations. As their relationship evolved, Claire relinquished her sense of identity and Liam isn't manipulative or abusive, despite the circumstances surrounding their relationship separation. On their final day sightseeing, Liam returns to London as a bachelor while Claire remains in Paris, grieving from the loss of her disproportional relationship.
Single. In Paris. Hello Pierre.
Rather than embrace the singleton lifestyle, Claire finds herself fantasising about Louis, sexy, domineering and sexy. Yes, I mentioned sexy twice. Rather than the typical male protagonist, Louis is mature, greying temples and although described as lean, Louis is an intellect. Passionate and ambitious. Claire offered very little resistance against Louis and his charismatic innuendo and I felt slightly disappointed by the relationship between Claire and Louis as it felt purely sexual.
Sexual tension y'all.
Paris Lights is mischievous, enticing and one young woman who is determined to embrace life. A brisk, pleasant read for an afternoon on the couch.
Louis Delarue is infuriating and arrogant as he is handsome, wielding wealth and influence as his weapon. Confident, capable and determined, Claire will not become a casualty to anguish, she is tenacious and will reclaim Paris and she most definitely will not succumb to the charm and sex appeal of Louis Delarue.
MY THOUGHTS
Claire is a passive, passionate girl who departed her home town of Melbourne for London to ensure her partner Liam achieved his aspirations. As their relationship evolved, Claire relinquished her sense of identity and Liam isn't manipulative or abusive, despite the circumstances surrounding their relationship separation. On their final day sightseeing, Liam returns to London as a bachelor while Claire remains in Paris, grieving from the loss of her disproportional relationship.
Single. In Paris. Hello Pierre.
Rather than embrace the singleton lifestyle, Claire finds herself fantasising about Louis, sexy, domineering and sexy. Yes, I mentioned sexy twice. Rather than the typical male protagonist, Louis is mature, greying temples and although described as lean, Louis is an intellect. Passionate and ambitious. Claire offered very little resistance against Louis and his charismatic innuendo and I felt slightly disappointed by the relationship between Claire and Louis as it felt purely sexual.
Sexual tension y'all.
Paris Lights is mischievous, enticing and one young woman who is determined to embrace life. A brisk, pleasant read for an afternoon on the couch.
November 14, 2016
C.J. Duggan is a new to me author and I will be reading a lot more from her this is a fun story that had me smiling and laughing.
Melbourne girl Claire Shorten has loved Paris forever and after moving to London with her boyfriend Liam and a weekend trip to Paris is planned well Claire is over the moon just knowing he will propose but alas he dumps her under The Eiffel Tower would you believe, oh but there is yelling and hissy fits but this starts a journey to a HEA with none other than top celebrity chef Louis Delarue when Claire decides to stay in Paris and ends up working in the hotel that she had been staying at Trocadero.
Louis Delarue is a tough operator doing lots of celebrity TV shows as guest judge on cooking shows but he has his own TV show where he renovates or detonates a hotel and Hotel Trocadero is up for either, and it is up to the staff to show him which he will decide but Claire has been given a position and she can be very feisty will she get them over the line or lose it for the hard working staff because their first encounter does not go too well rain and a car and then a jug of water need I say more.
This really is such a good story one that will brighten your day and have you laughing as Claire who really does have a foot in mouth problem and the comes across as tough as nails Louis journey a path to a HEA that is rocky but there is a very sensual pull between them that cannot be denied for long and nearly ends when Claire yes loses her temper in public. The characters come to life on the pages and of course the setting fabulous I do highly recommend this one it is sure to keep you turning the pages.
Melbourne girl Claire Shorten has loved Paris forever and after moving to London with her boyfriend Liam and a weekend trip to Paris is planned well Claire is over the moon just knowing he will propose but alas he dumps her under The Eiffel Tower would you believe, oh but there is yelling and hissy fits but this starts a journey to a HEA with none other than top celebrity chef Louis Delarue when Claire decides to stay in Paris and ends up working in the hotel that she had been staying at Trocadero.
Louis Delarue is a tough operator doing lots of celebrity TV shows as guest judge on cooking shows but he has his own TV show where he renovates or detonates a hotel and Hotel Trocadero is up for either, and it is up to the staff to show him which he will decide but Claire has been given a position and she can be very feisty will she get them over the line or lose it for the hard working staff because their first encounter does not go too well rain and a car and then a jug of water need I say more.
This really is such a good story one that will brighten your day and have you laughing as Claire who really does have a foot in mouth problem and the comes across as tough as nails Louis journey a path to a HEA that is rocky but there is a very sensual pull between them that cannot be denied for long and nearly ends when Claire yes loses her temper in public. The characters come to life on the pages and of course the setting fabulous I do highly recommend this one it is sure to keep you turning the pages.
October 17, 2017
review to come.
April 28, 2018
This wasn't a terrible unreadable book but neither was it an enjoyable one. Heroine is a sad sack. She moved to another country for a dude to chase his dreams only he didn't actually have any. She had no goals in life was barely an adult at 25 Hero was a rebound for her and not a good one. He was an ass. He never made any secret of it, never apologized for it, and never changed so I don't quite understand how he's supposed to be a romantic hero. Plot is basically: heroine gets dumped, enter hero, hero is rude she slaps him, hero doesn't apologize but she sleeps with him, next morning hero is rude again, still doesn't apologize hea. This didn't need to be a 250 page book because nothing really happened.
Tldr: this was rather boring and neither character was especially likable. Not recommended
Tldr: this was rather boring and neither character was especially likable. Not recommended
January 17, 2017
ineffectual special snowflake protagonist Claire is dumped by boyfriend, angry-meets LI, then takes over the hotel she's staying at to "inspire" them (even though she has no experience) to improve in order to meet angry LI approval. Takes about one google search to find out amazing things about LI, and about one minute longer to actually fall for him. She goes from one controlling man to another, doesn't do anything she wants to do in Paris besides mope, and follow LI around. Unbelievable romance, one-note characters - not my cup of tea at all.
November 15, 2016
Review coming soon!
June 30, 2017
C.J. Duggan is a new to me author so I wasn't sure what to expect, I'm happy to announce that this book was magnifique and I will most definitely read the next one in Heart of the City series, especially that it is set in New York. I adore New York!
Paris Lights is a fun and totally engaging read. Claire is easy to relate to, she's sassy, warm and kind. Now, Louis Delarue is a different story -is he what one calls an alpha male or a Gordon Ramsey? Hehehe. Hmm, not a fan. I like men who are sweet and gentle from the start however, it didn't determine my rating or how I viewed the book, no matter how much of a jerk Louis was, although I could've smacked him a couple of times he did kinda keep the story interesting and lively and, phew, he redeemed himself towards the end, he actually turned out to be decent and something of a hottie.
I'm probably the only one in the world who has never really warmed to the french language (my dad loves it as he spent a year in France in the 50s) or interested in visiting the country, though, after reading this novel, perhaps I could be persuaded to take a wander around Paris on our next travels.
All in all a very satisfactory read!
March 28, 2017
I really liked this. It's very Aussie-centric. A lot of the dialogue and vernacular has an Aussie flavour, so I'm not sure if it gets lost in translation for non-Aussies.
Personally, it makes Claire a lot more relatable and had me cracking up in places...
Personally, it makes Claire a lot more relatable and had me cracking up in places...
December 12, 2017
Lee is giving us a twofer on the blog today, 5 stars for Paris Lights and 4 stars for London Bound...check out her full review on Scandalicious Book Reviews:
http://bit.ly/2Bh5PDZ
http://bit.ly/2Bh5PDZ
August 10, 2019
Long run up, quick finish.
I think I mostly enjoyed it because it was in Paris and I could picture where it was all happening.
Nice touch that Claire was from Melbourne. :)
I think I mostly enjoyed it because it was in Paris and I could picture where it was all happening.
Nice touch that Claire was from Melbourne. :)
December 13, 2016
Claire Shorten has always dreamed about Paris. When her longtime boyfriend takes her to the Eiffel Tower on a mini-break, Claire is sure that this is is - a dream proposal in a gorgeous, picturesque location. But in one of the most romantic places in the world he asks a very different question. Heartbroken that her boyfriend wants to see other people, Claire isn't going to let her ex ruin Paris for her. She gets the opportunity to live like a local and help save a failing hotel. The only catch is the surly celebrity chef and restaurateur extraordinary who has methods of his own to turn around the hotel.
Paris Lights is the perfect summer read. Beautiful location with fun characters, this book is a delightful mix of Parisian culture and Australian attitude. Claire may be heartbroken when the romance in her favourite city is damaged a little but she doesn't let anything get her down for too long. She comes face to face with a younger, handsomer Gordon Ramsay type and (despite his reputation) she doesn't let him intimidate her.
There is a bit of a Kitchen Nightmares vibe to Louis Delarue and I loved seeing Claire put him in his place when he deserved it. Claire finds she can really help the merry mix of quirky hotel workers using her event planning skills to use. And Louis may be scary and successful but he has met his match in Claire.
The romance in this book flowed at a nice pace considering how the novel started. I was worried Claire would be on the rebound but everything was dealt with neatly without allowing anything to get too complicated. Interactions between Claire and Louis were amusing with them mixing flirty banter and sensual intimate scenes. It was also nice to see the man behind the terrifying reputation as his relationship with Claire developed.
Paris Lights is the kind of book you can devour in a few hours. It's lighthearted and fun, chock full of romance. It's very main character focused with the minor characters only seemingly existing to help further Claire's story but that wasn't a problem. This is a romantic comedy which delivers on the romance and the comedy.
It was fun to follow Claire as Paris mended her broken heart and showed her just how romantic Paris can be. I'm excited to see the next two standalones in the Heart of the City series and can't wait to see what CJ Duggan delights us with next!
Paris Lights is the perfect summer read. Beautiful location with fun characters, this book is a delightful mix of Parisian culture and Australian attitude. Claire may be heartbroken when the romance in her favourite city is damaged a little but she doesn't let anything get her down for too long. She comes face to face with a younger, handsomer Gordon Ramsay type and (despite his reputation) she doesn't let him intimidate her.
There is a bit of a Kitchen Nightmares vibe to Louis Delarue and I loved seeing Claire put him in his place when he deserved it. Claire finds she can really help the merry mix of quirky hotel workers using her event planning skills to use. And Louis may be scary and successful but he has met his match in Claire.
The romance in this book flowed at a nice pace considering how the novel started. I was worried Claire would be on the rebound but everything was dealt with neatly without allowing anything to get too complicated. Interactions between Claire and Louis were amusing with them mixing flirty banter and sensual intimate scenes. It was also nice to see the man behind the terrifying reputation as his relationship with Claire developed.
Paris Lights is the kind of book you can devour in a few hours. It's lighthearted and fun, chock full of romance. It's very main character focused with the minor characters only seemingly existing to help further Claire's story but that wasn't a problem. This is a romantic comedy which delivers on the romance and the comedy.
It was fun to follow Claire as Paris mended her broken heart and showed her just how romantic Paris can be. I'm excited to see the next two standalones in the Heart of the City series and can't wait to see what CJ Duggan delights us with next!
November 13, 2016
4.5 Stars
A fantastic start to this new series, CJ Duggan completely sucked me into the bright lights of Paris. Once Claire got rid of her loser boyfriend and once Louis lodged himself into her life, things really started picking up and I was 100% committed. I loved Claire and her potty mouth, once she got going she just couldn't help herself, verbal diarrhoea at its best. Sexy, arrogant chef Louis may just be my next book boyfriend (oh and that cover, that is exactly as I imagined him). Told from Claire's POV, this story is a beautifully written, witty, heartwarming, romantic standalone. So looking forward to more in the series. I was provided with a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
A fantastic start to this new series, CJ Duggan completely sucked me into the bright lights of Paris. Once Claire got rid of her loser boyfriend and once Louis lodged himself into her life, things really started picking up and I was 100% committed. I loved Claire and her potty mouth, once she got going she just couldn't help herself, verbal diarrhoea at its best. Sexy, arrogant chef Louis may just be my next book boyfriend (oh and that cover, that is exactly as I imagined him). Told from Claire's POV, this story is a beautifully written, witty, heartwarming, romantic standalone. So looking forward to more in the series. I was provided with a copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 18, 2016
Really Enjoyable. A bit predictable, but if your looking for a cute story with a little bit of hot romance this is perfect
January 6, 2018
I picked up Paris Lights because I'd just read three fantasy books--two of which were extremely slow paced and took me the majority of the month to read. I wanted something that would hook me and that I could read quickly. And that's exactly what happened. I read the first 30% and then basically finished the rest of the book the next day.
The description is a little deceiving. Claire does get dumped by her boyfriend, and she does find a job in the kitchen of a small hotel. But the hotel is more the focus than the kitchen. And Claire pitches in all over the hotel, from manning the reception desk to washing dishes. But the reason Claire pitches in is because the hotel needs saving and Cecile (the owner/manager) gave her a place to stay when her boyfriend dumped her and she decided to stay in Paris. Cecile has managed to get one of those reality TV shows--think Restaurant Impossible or Kitchen Nightmares or I guess Hotel Impossible if such a show existed--to help her save the hotel.
And like Robert Irvine or Gordon Ramsay, Louis Delarue has a tough outer shell. Louis tends to come into a hotel or restaurant and rip the food, accommodations, and staff to pieces. Most people seem to be terrified of him. The problem is that he expects perfection. He has high standards of people. It takes a lot to earn his respect, but when you've gotten it you know that you've earned it. Of course this doesn't sit well with all people and Claire starts off with an intense dislike of Louis. Sure he's attractive physically, but not the way he treats people. And so she challenges him to behave differently. The problem is...she only sees what's on the surface. Beneath is a passionate and generous man. I really appreciated how Claire's opinion of Louis changed rather slowly. And they built their relationship upon shared experiences rather than physical attraction. Of course things do get physical, and CJ Duggan was fairly graphic when things got there. Yet overall there weren't many scenes in the book of this nature.
I felt like some pieces could have been explained better. Like how and why Louis ended up choosing the Hotel Trocadero as one of his project hotels in the first place. Claire's actual duties in the hotel and with the project were vague at best and could have been flushed out more. Just a few issues like that. The only highlights I made were a couple of overused phrases.
Overall, Paris Lights was exactly what I expected--a quick, fun, light read. I read the first 30% quickly and was hooked after that. There was some language and physical scenes, but neither were excessive throughout the book. Paris Lights gets 3.5 Stars. Have you read Paris Lights? What did you think? Let me know!
The description is a little deceiving. Claire does get dumped by her boyfriend, and she does find a job in the kitchen of a small hotel. But the hotel is more the focus than the kitchen. And Claire pitches in all over the hotel, from manning the reception desk to washing dishes. But the reason Claire pitches in is because the hotel needs saving and Cecile (the owner/manager) gave her a place to stay when her boyfriend dumped her and she decided to stay in Paris. Cecile has managed to get one of those reality TV shows--think Restaurant Impossible or Kitchen Nightmares or I guess Hotel Impossible if such a show existed--to help her save the hotel.
And like Robert Irvine or Gordon Ramsay, Louis Delarue has a tough outer shell. Louis tends to come into a hotel or restaurant and rip the food, accommodations, and staff to pieces. Most people seem to be terrified of him. The problem is that he expects perfection. He has high standards of people. It takes a lot to earn his respect, but when you've gotten it you know that you've earned it. Of course this doesn't sit well with all people and Claire starts off with an intense dislike of Louis. Sure he's attractive physically, but not the way he treats people. And so she challenges him to behave differently. The problem is...she only sees what's on the surface. Beneath is a passionate and generous man. I really appreciated how Claire's opinion of Louis changed rather slowly. And they built their relationship upon shared experiences rather than physical attraction. Of course things do get physical, and CJ Duggan was fairly graphic when things got there. Yet overall there weren't many scenes in the book of this nature.
I felt like some pieces could have been explained better. Like how and why Louis ended up choosing the Hotel Trocadero as one of his project hotels in the first place. Claire's actual duties in the hotel and with the project were vague at best and could have been flushed out more. Just a few issues like that. The only highlights I made were a couple of overused phrases.
Overall, Paris Lights was exactly what I expected--a quick, fun, light read. I read the first 30% quickly and was hooked after that. There was some language and physical scenes, but neither were excessive throughout the book. Paris Lights gets 3.5 Stars. Have you read Paris Lights? What did you think? Let me know!
December 30, 2017
This was my first time reading C.J. Duggan and I was happy that I enjoyed it so much as I often find contemporary romance kind of unbearable and too cringey to read. But this one was fun, and I'm keen to read the rest of the Heart of the City series. Sure, Paris Lights was entirely predictable, and the characters very typical- clumsy yet endearing protagonist; seemingly rude, arrogant hot guy; kindly, helpful supporting characters. But I suspected going in that that would be the case, and I managed to get through the cringier parts quite happily because this book is so fun, and made me feel like jetting off to Europe for a summer fling. Also because I like watching Ramsay's Hotel Hell, and this plot was kind of like that if Ramsay was a handsome eligible bachelor, because Claire meets previously mentioned arrogant man because he is basically filming a Ramsay-esque show about the hotel that has taken her in (oh so conveniently). So predictable. Super cringey use of the too-often used term "his length". Sets up unrealistic expectations of European travel. But a good, entertaining holiday read nonetheless.
June 3, 2023
Yep, you guessed it, I loved it. This was a very easy story to get completely wrapped up in and although I’m not usually a person that cries during movies or while reading books, I can honestly say that I sat here feeling Claire’s heartbreak and rejection in part of the story. You’ll know what part I’m referring to when you read this fabulous creation.
Throughout the tale I was reminded of the show Emily in Paris, but for me, Claire was a larger-than-life character and just grew in leaps and bounds as her strength, independence and voice evolved. Mind you, it probably helps anchor the character for me with the fact that she is Australian.
There are many funny moments that enhance the story and make it even more enjoyable, as well as characters that soon become as endearing as family, but Claire is the center of it all and her character does not disappoint. In steps Louis and suddenly you’re not sure of anything….other than he is brooding and hot.
This is one of my first romance novels of this type that I have read, but it won’t be my last. 😉
(My copy of Paris Lights was supplied via a giveaway…sorry, that long ago I can’t remember from who 🤦♀️)
#parislights
#cjduggan
#parisromance
Throughout the tale I was reminded of the show Emily in Paris, but for me, Claire was a larger-than-life character and just grew in leaps and bounds as her strength, independence and voice evolved. Mind you, it probably helps anchor the character for me with the fact that she is Australian.
There are many funny moments that enhance the story and make it even more enjoyable, as well as characters that soon become as endearing as family, but Claire is the center of it all and her character does not disappoint. In steps Louis and suddenly you’re not sure of anything….other than he is brooding and hot.
This is one of my first romance novels of this type that I have read, but it won’t be my last. 😉
(My copy of Paris Lights was supplied via a giveaway…sorry, that long ago I can’t remember from who 🤦♀️)
#parislights
#cjduggan
#parisromance
October 4, 2018
I downloaded this lighthearted romance to keep me entertained during a long flight to New York. It sounded like an easy read that I could put down at will, the perfect travel companion, but this book is too hard to put down once you start reading.
I was heartbroken for, yet thoroughly entertained by the delightful Claire, whose quick wit and inability to hold her tongue made her an edgy and interesting character. Her reaction while being dumped right under the Eiffel Tower, was priceless, and one that many of us can relate to.
Paris Lights follows Claire as she tries to rebuild her life after Liam, following her dreams as she chooses to remain in Paris instead of returning home. Claire comes into her own as she fights the depression of being dumped for another woman, takes on a major role in a run down hotel, and faces off with the smolderingly hot celebrity chef, Louis. C. J. Duggan has written the perfect book to curl up with, the kind of book that makes you smile while reading it, the kind that has you switching places with the main character!
I was heartbroken for, yet thoroughly entertained by the delightful Claire, whose quick wit and inability to hold her tongue made her an edgy and interesting character. Her reaction while being dumped right under the Eiffel Tower, was priceless, and one that many of us can relate to.
Paris Lights follows Claire as she tries to rebuild her life after Liam, following her dreams as she chooses to remain in Paris instead of returning home. Claire comes into her own as she fights the depression of being dumped for another woman, takes on a major role in a run down hotel, and faces off with the smolderingly hot celebrity chef, Louis. C. J. Duggan has written the perfect book to curl up with, the kind of book that makes you smile while reading it, the kind that has you switching places with the main character!
December 5, 2016
Original Review @ Naomi’s Reading Palace
I love a good enemies to lovers romance, and one that's set in Paris, oh yes please! Fate has a way of stepping in so it was kind of chance meeting for Louis and Claire. She'd just been dumped, and he happened to be taking on a new project! Paris Lights was a light and amusing read, with a slow developing romance set in the city of love!
Claire was an Aussie, who travelled to Paris with her boyfriend. After he dropped a bombshell, she was a little lost and found new friends in the hotel that she was staying at. She decided to help them through a crisis, and that was how she came face to face with Louis Delarue – a broody and rude man – who wanted to turn Hotel Trocadero into a success.
I loved that Louis and Claire's relationship got off to a rocky start. Claire was sick of holding back and told Louis exactly what she was thinking, which often had me laughing! She defended her new friends automatically and often put Louis in his place. After I got to know Louis more, I could see he was passionate about what he did and a bit of a perfectionist. Claire challenged him and she made him see things differently.
I am so excited by this new series that C.J. Duggan has started! The way she slowly drew me into the world and introduced me to some characters that I adored. My only complaint... I wanted more! More of Claire and Louis, maybe exploring some of Paris together! I liked how Louis slowly let Claire into his world and she was able to see that he was a sweet and caring person. They were so good together, after they gave in to their desires. If you haven't tried C.J. Duggan as yet, grab Paris Lights and immerse yourself into this addictive world today!
Complimentary copy provided by Hachette Australia in exchange for an honest review.
I love a good enemies to lovers romance, and one that's set in Paris, oh yes please! Fate has a way of stepping in so it was kind of chance meeting for Louis and Claire. She'd just been dumped, and he happened to be taking on a new project! Paris Lights was a light and amusing read, with a slow developing romance set in the city of love!
Claire was an Aussie, who travelled to Paris with her boyfriend. After he dropped a bombshell, she was a little lost and found new friends in the hotel that she was staying at. She decided to help them through a crisis, and that was how she came face to face with Louis Delarue – a broody and rude man – who wanted to turn Hotel Trocadero into a success.
I loved that Louis and Claire's relationship got off to a rocky start. Claire was sick of holding back and told Louis exactly what she was thinking, which often had me laughing! She defended her new friends automatically and often put Louis in his place. After I got to know Louis more, I could see he was passionate about what he did and a bit of a perfectionist. Claire challenged him and she made him see things differently.
I am so excited by this new series that C.J. Duggan has started! The way she slowly drew me into the world and introduced me to some characters that I adored. My only complaint... I wanted more! More of Claire and Louis, maybe exploring some of Paris together! I liked how Louis slowly let Claire into his world and she was able to see that he was a sweet and caring person. They were so good together, after they gave in to their desires. If you haven't tried C.J. Duggan as yet, grab Paris Lights and immerse yourself into this addictive world today!
Complimentary copy provided by Hachette Australia in exchange for an honest review.
June 7, 2017
What can I say....I absolutely LOVED LOVED LOVED this book! I had never previously read a book by CJ Duggan so I must admit I had low expectations....she absolutely exceeded my expectations. I'm literally going to stop into big w on my way home and pick up another of her books! There wasn't a chapter I didn't enjoy...I couldn't put it down! The romance was amplified set in the beautiful city of Paris! It made it feel magical and sophisticated! I thoroughly enjoyed the characters the author created and the scene when Claire visited a Michelin star restaurant and how she described it as an experience. I felt like I was on the adventure with Claire and characters wanting to see the hotel succeed and Claire's heart heal! Recommend for those who are a fan of Lindsey kelk's writing and those who love a great love story and easy read!
May 14, 2018
This is the first book by C J Duggan I have read and delighted with the book . I was looking for something lighter after a heavier book I had finished and found this a good easy read. I love the cover , and it drew me into life in Paris, based mainly around the hotel Claire was staying in , first with her boyfriend who finished their relationship before heading back to London , and when Claire finds work at the hotel the story really springs into life and takes the reader on a lighthearted trip.
The text is well written and the chapters are not too long so the book moves along at a good pace .
I will be on the look out for further books in the series .
Thanks CJ Duggan for taking me to Paris , a city I have never visited and I am not sure if my school girl French would be much good now after so many years
The text is well written and the chapters are not too long so the book moves along at a good pace .
I will be on the look out for further books in the series .
Thanks CJ Duggan for taking me to Paris , a city I have never visited and I am not sure if my school girl French would be much good now after so many years
February 27, 2017
First standalone book in the A Heart Of The City Series.
After her boyfriend dumps her is Paris, Australian Claire Shorten is determined not to let him ruin Paris for her. Deciding to stay in Paris and reclaim her love for the city, Claire finds herself a job at the hotel where she has been staying. When the hotel where she now lives and works garners the attention of celebrity chef and business Tycoon Louis Delarue, Claire is thrown into the deep end of a business lunch from hell. Despite the disastrous luncheon, Louis has taken an interest in the hotel and decides to help it reach its potential. Despite her protests Claire is assigned to work with Louis. Can Claire handle the ruthless business man and help her friends and co workers save their jobs.
I really enjoyed this book.
With interesting and relatable characters it wasnt hard to get swept up into this story. C.J. Duggan has done a wonderful job with this book. With a great array of relatable character, a great setting and steamy situations, this book was an easy enjoyable read.
The descriptive almost cinematic writing really captures the city of Paris. I loved seeing Paris from a tourists perspective, it was both exciting and overwhelming.
Emotion played a big role in this book and you could definitely feel it throughout the story. The writing was emotive yet witty at the same time.
The only thing I didn't enjoy about this book was needing to wait for conversations to be translated. Being that the main character of Claire was an Australian who didn't speak French, in Paris, some of the dialogue need to be translated to her and that slowed down the flow of the book a little.
Other than my issue with the translating, I will definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a different yet beautifully told romance, with a great setting, relatable characters and great writing.
In other words I think everyone should read this book.
Bring on the rest of A Heart Of The City Series.
Written by Geramie Kate Barker
https://gemsbooknook.wordpress.com
After her boyfriend dumps her is Paris, Australian Claire Shorten is determined not to let him ruin Paris for her. Deciding to stay in Paris and reclaim her love for the city, Claire finds herself a job at the hotel where she has been staying. When the hotel where she now lives and works garners the attention of celebrity chef and business Tycoon Louis Delarue, Claire is thrown into the deep end of a business lunch from hell. Despite the disastrous luncheon, Louis has taken an interest in the hotel and decides to help it reach its potential. Despite her protests Claire is assigned to work with Louis. Can Claire handle the ruthless business man and help her friends and co workers save their jobs.
I really enjoyed this book.
With interesting and relatable characters it wasnt hard to get swept up into this story. C.J. Duggan has done a wonderful job with this book. With a great array of relatable character, a great setting and steamy situations, this book was an easy enjoyable read.
The descriptive almost cinematic writing really captures the city of Paris. I loved seeing Paris from a tourists perspective, it was both exciting and overwhelming.
Emotion played a big role in this book and you could definitely feel it throughout the story. The writing was emotive yet witty at the same time.
The only thing I didn't enjoy about this book was needing to wait for conversations to be translated. Being that the main character of Claire was an Australian who didn't speak French, in Paris, some of the dialogue need to be translated to her and that slowed down the flow of the book a little.
Other than my issue with the translating, I will definitely recommend this book to anyone looking for a different yet beautifully told romance, with a great setting, relatable characters and great writing.
In other words I think everyone should read this book.
Bring on the rest of A Heart Of The City Series.
Written by Geramie Kate Barker
https://gemsbooknook.wordpress.com
August 16, 2018
Claire Shorten should be enjoying a romantic time in Paris, strolling by the Seine, exploring the districts and eating fabulous French food, with her boyfriend who she is sure is about to propose. Her dreams crash when he dumps her, leaving her alone in Paris, the city of romance.
Claire manages to get a job at a small hotel and that’s when things get interesting as she meets the inscrutable yet sexy Louis Delarue. He’s a celebrity chef with attitude to spare. A fun read with a sexy, stylish vibe and a certain ‘je ne sais pas’ that extra ingredients which lifts it from a standard romance.
This is the first books I have read by CJ Duggan and I really enjoyed it as I sped through it. I won the book in a contest but I was under no obligation to review it.
Claire manages to get a job at a small hotel and that’s when things get interesting as she meets the inscrutable yet sexy Louis Delarue. He’s a celebrity chef with attitude to spare. A fun read with a sexy, stylish vibe and a certain ‘je ne sais pas’ that extra ingredients which lifts it from a standard romance.
This is the first books I have read by CJ Duggan and I really enjoyed it as I sped through it. I won the book in a contest but I was under no obligation to review it.
August 17, 2018
Loved it—stayed up all night to finish it!
4.5 Stars...Absolutely loved the book! Great characters, well paced story arc, the whole range of emotions, well placed humor and snark, anger, tears. The book has it all.
The ending was a bit wimpy. It left an awful lot to chance that Claire would take the action that she did. Not really a resounding declaration of need or love on Louis’ part, especially if she never comes back to Paris (and why would they think she would?) to see the grand gesture.
4.5 Stars...Absolutely loved the book! Great characters, well paced story arc, the whole range of emotions, well placed humor and snark, anger, tears. The book has it all.
The ending was a bit wimpy. It left an awful lot to chance that Claire would take the action that she did. Not really a resounding declaration of need or love on Louis’ part, especially if she never comes back to Paris (and why would they think she would?) to see the grand gesture.
March 4, 2017
It is well known that I am a huge Cj Duggan fan and have loved every single book that she has released, so there will obviously be plenty of fan girling in my post! Although Toby from The Boys of Summer will always hold my heart <3 Louis Delarue from Paris Lights comes a VERY close second, but storyline wise…… Paris Lights has become front runner for me, making my anticipation for New York Nights very high.
Firstly we meet Claire Shorten, 25, originally from Melbourne Australia. She followed her boyfriend, Liam to London to follow his dreams. She left behind a great career and followed love. After being obsessed about everything Paris for pretty much her whole life, Claire can hardly contain her excitement when a trip is planned with Liam. There is so much she wants to see and do while there, so she tries not to let Liam’s negativity towards everything spoil this magical place. With Liam wanting to leave visiting the Eiffel Tower until last, Claire is convinced Liam is going to propose and is trying to build up the suspense and excitement. So imagine her complete shock, that whilst under the tower, Liam’s proposal is that they actually start to see other people. Claire is utterly heartbroken. She leaves Liam at the tower, heading back in the most horrendous rain, and after a run in with a mysterious but angry looking guy driving erratically in an Audi, Claire fears that Paris has been ruined for her.
When Liam stomps on Claire’s heart even further, informing her he has feelings for another woman, Claire makes the monumental decision not to return to London with him, but to remain in Paris. Once Claire actually thinks back on her hasty decision, the panic sets in, but thanks to the friendly staff at Hotel Trocadero, she is given a temporary reprieve, a room on the top floor of the hotel for a few days.
When Hotel Trocadero is selected to appear on the tv show Renovation or Detonation, all panic sets in, and as payment for allowinging her to stay, Claire offers to help, after hearing that the show host is like the devil. When Claire meets the devil aka Louis Delarue she is transported back to a few days earlier, when she had her heart broken into pieces. The day a guy was driving erratically in his Audi, splashed her with gutter water and didn’t apologise. Louis is that guy! Claire can instantly tell he is a bully, she dislikes the panic he instills on the people around her and her immediate thought is…..she hates Louis Delarue.
Louis is a famous chef and restaurateur. His tv show helps failing businesses to try to turn things around, he tries to turn them in to a success. His persona is known as broody and mean. He shouts at people, is brutal in his manner and brutally honest with it, it makes for good tv and people usually back off and take it. Until Claire Shorten, she stands up to Louis, he is not used to it, but deep down, I think he secretly likes it. After initially saying no to helping the hotel due to a mishap with Claire, he decides to take on the failing Hotel Trocadero, on the one condition that he gets to work alongside the hotel maitre’d, Claire.
Two gorgeous people who openly appear to dislike each other, working side by side, sparks are sure to fly. Can Claire contain her hatred towards Louis to save Hotel Trocadero, or is the tension between the two, too palpable to be able to hold back?
Paris Lights is the first book from Cj’s exciting new Heart of the City series and this sure is a great beginning. It still has the Aussie vibe that I love from her books and as with everything that Cj writes this book flows seamlessly throughout. Cj continuously provides us with books that are easy to read and addictive, with exciting plots and characters you just cant help but love. The main characters in Paris Lights are fun, and exciting and Louis with his brooding and smirking is so damn sexy.
The writing is descriptive and enthralling. It is expressive and I was easily picturing the storyline and characters in my head as it played along. The story is written from the female point of view only, usually I am not a fan of books written this way, I find myself too intrigued as to what the other characters are thinking and feeling, but with the detailed writing Cj provided, down to smirks and facial expressions, I was thoroughly satisfied and even found myself enjoying the mysteriousness of Louis.
There are so many elements to this book to enjoy. The suspense. The great writing. The twists. The romance. The excitement. The heartache. The intimacy! (Cj made me blush, I felt like this was a new side to Cj that I got to experience) Cj writes intimacy very well indeed!! The humour……..
“What?” Sammi snapped. “What are you going on about?”
I blinked a few more times, but the view was the same. “Louis poked me.”
“Yeah and I really don’t need to keep hearing about it.”
“Not like that, you idiot, on Facebook … Louis Delarue poked me. He’s not on Facebook; he doesn’t do social media.”
My only negative is there is no epilogue. I love to hear how people move forward a period of time after the story has ended, even if it is just a line or two, that is only because when I love a book, I am like a junkie and just want more and more!
Paris Lights has a creative plot and enchanting characters. It is entertaining, yet realistic and modern. True to life and relatable to today with so many aspects of the story. I praise Cj Duggan for being utterly brilliant!
Firstly we meet Claire Shorten, 25, originally from Melbourne Australia. She followed her boyfriend, Liam to London to follow his dreams. She left behind a great career and followed love. After being obsessed about everything Paris for pretty much her whole life, Claire can hardly contain her excitement when a trip is planned with Liam. There is so much she wants to see and do while there, so she tries not to let Liam’s negativity towards everything spoil this magical place. With Liam wanting to leave visiting the Eiffel Tower until last, Claire is convinced Liam is going to propose and is trying to build up the suspense and excitement. So imagine her complete shock, that whilst under the tower, Liam’s proposal is that they actually start to see other people. Claire is utterly heartbroken. She leaves Liam at the tower, heading back in the most horrendous rain, and after a run in with a mysterious but angry looking guy driving erratically in an Audi, Claire fears that Paris has been ruined for her.
When Liam stomps on Claire’s heart even further, informing her he has feelings for another woman, Claire makes the monumental decision not to return to London with him, but to remain in Paris. Once Claire actually thinks back on her hasty decision, the panic sets in, but thanks to the friendly staff at Hotel Trocadero, she is given a temporary reprieve, a room on the top floor of the hotel for a few days.
When Hotel Trocadero is selected to appear on the tv show Renovation or Detonation, all panic sets in, and as payment for allowinging her to stay, Claire offers to help, after hearing that the show host is like the devil. When Claire meets the devil aka Louis Delarue she is transported back to a few days earlier, when she had her heart broken into pieces. The day a guy was driving erratically in his Audi, splashed her with gutter water and didn’t apologise. Louis is that guy! Claire can instantly tell he is a bully, she dislikes the panic he instills on the people around her and her immediate thought is…..she hates Louis Delarue.
Louis is a famous chef and restaurateur. His tv show helps failing businesses to try to turn things around, he tries to turn them in to a success. His persona is known as broody and mean. He shouts at people, is brutal in his manner and brutally honest with it, it makes for good tv and people usually back off and take it. Until Claire Shorten, she stands up to Louis, he is not used to it, but deep down, I think he secretly likes it. After initially saying no to helping the hotel due to a mishap with Claire, he decides to take on the failing Hotel Trocadero, on the one condition that he gets to work alongside the hotel maitre’d, Claire.
Two gorgeous people who openly appear to dislike each other, working side by side, sparks are sure to fly. Can Claire contain her hatred towards Louis to save Hotel Trocadero, or is the tension between the two, too palpable to be able to hold back?
Paris Lights is the first book from Cj’s exciting new Heart of the City series and this sure is a great beginning. It still has the Aussie vibe that I love from her books and as with everything that Cj writes this book flows seamlessly throughout. Cj continuously provides us with books that are easy to read and addictive, with exciting plots and characters you just cant help but love. The main characters in Paris Lights are fun, and exciting and Louis with his brooding and smirking is so damn sexy.
The writing is descriptive and enthralling. It is expressive and I was easily picturing the storyline and characters in my head as it played along. The story is written from the female point of view only, usually I am not a fan of books written this way, I find myself too intrigued as to what the other characters are thinking and feeling, but with the detailed writing Cj provided, down to smirks and facial expressions, I was thoroughly satisfied and even found myself enjoying the mysteriousness of Louis.
There are so many elements to this book to enjoy. The suspense. The great writing. The twists. The romance. The excitement. The heartache. The intimacy! (Cj made me blush, I felt like this was a new side to Cj that I got to experience) Cj writes intimacy very well indeed!! The humour……..
“What?” Sammi snapped. “What are you going on about?”
I blinked a few more times, but the view was the same. “Louis poked me.”
“Yeah and I really don’t need to keep hearing about it.”
“Not like that, you idiot, on Facebook … Louis Delarue poked me. He’s not on Facebook; he doesn’t do social media.”
My only negative is there is no epilogue. I love to hear how people move forward a period of time after the story has ended, even if it is just a line or two, that is only because when I love a book, I am like a junkie and just want more and more!
Paris Lights has a creative plot and enchanting characters. It is entertaining, yet realistic and modern. True to life and relatable to today with so many aspects of the story. I praise Cj Duggan for being utterly brilliant!
November 3, 2019
C.J. Duggan is one of my all-time favorite authors and this book did not disappoint! It's kind of a hate to love romance again, but was done well. The hero - Louis was a real douche at times, but I loved seeing Claire stand up to him. You kinda have to suspend belief at times, but isn't that what a romance is about! Would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a cute and steamy romance set in Paris!
January 6, 2025
C.J. Duggan is one of my all-time favorite authors and this book did not disappoint! It's kind of a hate to love romance again, but was done well. The hero - Louis was a real douche at times, but I loved seeing Claire stand up to him. You kinda have to suspend belief at times, but isn't that what a romance is about! Would definitely recommend this to anyone looking for a cute and steamy romance set in Paris!
November 14, 2016
This was a new author for me, the blurb sucked me in. I had a hard time connecting with the characters for the first 2/3 of the story. It seemed to drag on forever and the story was just about Claire having had something terrible happen to her and then she jumps into this role she had no idea what she was doing. The last 1/3 of the book is what sucked me in. The banter between Claire and Louis changed and I'm glad they found each other.
Overall, I rate this book 4 stars.
Overall, I rate this book 4 stars.
January 24, 2017
This book had me seriously crying with laughter in places - it was soooo funny. Loved the writing style, editing, storyline and characters. A great book and looking forward to reading book 2 in the series and more from this author
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