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Paris Syndrome
Can romance only be found in Paris, the city of love?
Happiness (Happy) Glass has been a loner since moving to Brisbane and yet still dreams about living in Paris with her best friend Rosie after they finish Year Twelve. But Rosie hasn't been terribly reliable lately.
When Happy wins a French essay competition, her social life starts looking up. She meets the eccentric Professor Tanaka and her girl-gardener Alex who recruit Happy in their fight against Paris Syndrome - an ailment that afflicts some visitors to Paris. Their quest for a cure gives Happy an excellent excuse to pursue a good-looking French tourism intern also called Alex. To save confusion she names the boy Alex One and the girl Alex Two.
As Happy pursues her love of all things French, Alex Two introduces Happy to her xylophone-playing chickens whose languishing Facebook page Happy sponsors.
But then sex messes things up when, confusingly, Happy ends up kissing both of the Alex's. Soon neither of them is speaking to her and she has gone from two Alex's to none ...
Happiness (Happy) Glass has been a loner since moving to Brisbane and yet still dreams about living in Paris with her best friend Rosie after they finish Year Twelve. But Rosie hasn't been terribly reliable lately.
When Happy wins a French essay competition, her social life starts looking up. She meets the eccentric Professor Tanaka and her girl-gardener Alex who recruit Happy in their fight against Paris Syndrome - an ailment that afflicts some visitors to Paris. Their quest for a cure gives Happy an excellent excuse to pursue a good-looking French tourism intern also called Alex. To save confusion she names the boy Alex One and the girl Alex Two.
As Happy pursues her love of all things French, Alex Two introduces Happy to her xylophone-playing chickens whose languishing Facebook page Happy sponsors.
But then sex messes things up when, confusingly, Happy ends up kissing both of the Alex's. Soon neither of them is speaking to her and she has gone from two Alex's to none ...
320 pages, Paperback
First published March 19, 2018
11 people are currently reading
424 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Walker
10 books69 followersLisa writes fiction for adults and young adults. Her eighth novel, and her first psychological suspense, 'The Pact' will come out in January 2026. Other novels are - 'Trouble is My Business', 'The Girl with the Gold Bikini', 'Paris Syndrome', 'Melt', 'Sex, Lies and Bonsai', ‘Liar Bird’, and ‘Arkie’s Pilgrimage to the Next Big Thing'.
Lisa's half-hour radio play 'Baddest Backpackers' aired on ABC Radio National in 2008. She was a finalist in the ABC Short Story Award and winner of the Byron Bay Writers Festival short story award. Her writing has been published in The Age, The Guardian, The Big Issue, The Sydney Morning Herald, Griffith Review and the Review of Australian Fiction.
Lisa grew up in Fiji and spent her teenage years in Brisbane. She has worked as a wilderness guide, park ranger and tertiary lecturer, and is now a full-time writer. She has a degree in zoology and a PhD in creative writing.
In her spare time she surfs and explores wild places. She lives on the far north coast of New South Wales, Australia.
www.lisawalker.com.au
Lisa's half-hour radio play 'Baddest Backpackers' aired on ABC Radio National in 2008. She was a finalist in the ABC Short Story Award and winner of the Byron Bay Writers Festival short story award. Her writing has been published in The Age, The Guardian, The Big Issue, The Sydney Morning Herald, Griffith Review and the Review of Australian Fiction.
Lisa grew up in Fiji and spent her teenage years in Brisbane. She has worked as a wilderness guide, park ranger and tertiary lecturer, and is now a full-time writer. She has a degree in zoology and a PhD in creative writing.
In her spare time she surfs and explores wild places. She lives on the far north coast of New South Wales, Australia.
www.lisawalker.com.au
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
March 21, 2018
* https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
Paris Syndrome got me hook, line and sinker on the intriguing title alone. As an enthusiast of all things Paris, I was keen to see what Lisa Walker’s latest novel had to offer. Behind the cover of this young adult release is a memorable coming of age story, which is both spirited and in the same breath touched with moments of sadness.
Moving from Sydney to Brisbane hasn’t been easy for seventeen year old Happiness (Happy) Glass. She has pretty much been a lost cause since her move three months ago. The hopes and dreams she once shared with her soul mate Rosie seem like distant memories now. A chance opportunity to reignite her old passion and love for all things Paris comes in the form of a French Tourism Board essay competition. When Happy wins the competition her life is changed for the better. Not only does the competition throw her into the arms of handsome tourism intern Alex (Alex number 1) it also introduces Happy to a very different Alex. This Alex is a girl who is as dubbed Alex number two. Happy’s connection to Alex number two contributes to the acquaintance of Professor Tanaka, who together with Alex number two, are fighting to combat a strange ailment called ‘Paris Syndrome’. Happy learns that Paris syndrome is a fever that affects members of the population who have unrealistic and overzealous perceptions of the city of love. Happy considers how she and Rosie’s own obsession with Paris could be classed as a typical case of Paris Syndrome. At the same time as dealing with the recognition of this ailment, Happy begins to develop a bond with both Alex number one and number two. When she takes the plunge and kisses both, it has far reaching implications for all involved.
Paris Syndrome marks a welcome return to the writing of Australian author Lisa Walker. I recall enjoying my experience of Walker’s previous book, Arkie’s Pilgrimage to the Next Big Thing. Walker examines familiar territory by focussing her story on the self discovery of her lead. While her previous book was written for an adult contemporary fiction audience, Paris Syndrome has been marketed as a young adult novel, from ages 14 plus. I will say as a thirty something that adults and young adult readers will both appreciate this book. It has broad appeal.
I do have to confess as an addict of all things French or Parisian, I will pick up any book that comes my way if there is so much as a small mention of Paris. I simply adore the city and despite having made two trips to the city of love, I have no doubt that one day I will return. In the meantime, I do like to fill my reading preferences with books that feature Paris. I like the original spin Lisa Walker offers on Paris. I know prior to this book I had no idea of the concept of ‘Paris Syndrome’. I do think Walker does the Paris theme justice in her novel. I loved all the subtle sketches provided of classic French films, fashions, cultural icons and of course the mouth watering cuisine. It was a feast for any Francophile!
Lisa Walker presents her readers with a well defined and charismatic character set. In the lead protagonist Happy (fantastic name!) we follow the character journey of a young woman on the very fringe of adulthood. Over the course of the novel, our lead negotiates some fairly tough feelings, from loss, separation, starting over, love and future aspirations. This is a turning point in any late teen’s life and Walker presents this stage of Happy’s life with insight. There is a fairly big plot twist that is linked to Happy’s coming of age story and for me it sent me into shock, as well as drawing me closer to Happy. Supporting Happy are a band of secondary characters that add much substance to this tale. I enjoyed Happy’s interactions with the young French man Alex, the female gardener Alex, the wise Professor Tanaka, her boss Kevin and mother. Walker balances moments of fun with poignancy in the interactions that take place between her characters.
For a young adult book Paris Syndrome covers a number of moving themes. Walker highlights the difficulties of moving into adulthood, dealing with a change in location, friendship, sex and love preferences, health crisis, all within the one involving novel. Most of all, I think Walker does a very good job of capturing the innermost feelings and reservations of young woman, with a convincing tone.
Whether you are a young adult reader or an adult reader, I am confident Paris Syndrome will be sure to suit your tastes. It is easy, light hearted and enjoyable, but also confronting at times. For lovers of all things French related, Paris Syndrome offers one delectable slice of Paris!
*I wish to thank Harper Collins Books Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Paris Syndrome is book #23 of the Australian Women Writers Challenge
Paris Syndrome got me hook, line and sinker on the intriguing title alone. As an enthusiast of all things Paris, I was keen to see what Lisa Walker’s latest novel had to offer. Behind the cover of this young adult release is a memorable coming of age story, which is both spirited and in the same breath touched with moments of sadness.
Moving from Sydney to Brisbane hasn’t been easy for seventeen year old Happiness (Happy) Glass. She has pretty much been a lost cause since her move three months ago. The hopes and dreams she once shared with her soul mate Rosie seem like distant memories now. A chance opportunity to reignite her old passion and love for all things Paris comes in the form of a French Tourism Board essay competition. When Happy wins the competition her life is changed for the better. Not only does the competition throw her into the arms of handsome tourism intern Alex (Alex number 1) it also introduces Happy to a very different Alex. This Alex is a girl who is as dubbed Alex number two. Happy’s connection to Alex number two contributes to the acquaintance of Professor Tanaka, who together with Alex number two, are fighting to combat a strange ailment called ‘Paris Syndrome’. Happy learns that Paris syndrome is a fever that affects members of the population who have unrealistic and overzealous perceptions of the city of love. Happy considers how she and Rosie’s own obsession with Paris could be classed as a typical case of Paris Syndrome. At the same time as dealing with the recognition of this ailment, Happy begins to develop a bond with both Alex number one and number two. When she takes the plunge and kisses both, it has far reaching implications for all involved.
Paris Syndrome marks a welcome return to the writing of Australian author Lisa Walker. I recall enjoying my experience of Walker’s previous book, Arkie’s Pilgrimage to the Next Big Thing. Walker examines familiar territory by focussing her story on the self discovery of her lead. While her previous book was written for an adult contemporary fiction audience, Paris Syndrome has been marketed as a young adult novel, from ages 14 plus. I will say as a thirty something that adults and young adult readers will both appreciate this book. It has broad appeal.
I do have to confess as an addict of all things French or Parisian, I will pick up any book that comes my way if there is so much as a small mention of Paris. I simply adore the city and despite having made two trips to the city of love, I have no doubt that one day I will return. In the meantime, I do like to fill my reading preferences with books that feature Paris. I like the original spin Lisa Walker offers on Paris. I know prior to this book I had no idea of the concept of ‘Paris Syndrome’. I do think Walker does the Paris theme justice in her novel. I loved all the subtle sketches provided of classic French films, fashions, cultural icons and of course the mouth watering cuisine. It was a feast for any Francophile!
Lisa Walker presents her readers with a well defined and charismatic character set. In the lead protagonist Happy (fantastic name!) we follow the character journey of a young woman on the very fringe of adulthood. Over the course of the novel, our lead negotiates some fairly tough feelings, from loss, separation, starting over, love and future aspirations. This is a turning point in any late teen’s life and Walker presents this stage of Happy’s life with insight. There is a fairly big plot twist that is linked to Happy’s coming of age story and for me it sent me into shock, as well as drawing me closer to Happy. Supporting Happy are a band of secondary characters that add much substance to this tale. I enjoyed Happy’s interactions with the young French man Alex, the female gardener Alex, the wise Professor Tanaka, her boss Kevin and mother. Walker balances moments of fun with poignancy in the interactions that take place between her characters.
For a young adult book Paris Syndrome covers a number of moving themes. Walker highlights the difficulties of moving into adulthood, dealing with a change in location, friendship, sex and love preferences, health crisis, all within the one involving novel. Most of all, I think Walker does a very good job of capturing the innermost feelings and reservations of young woman, with a convincing tone.
Whether you are a young adult reader or an adult reader, I am confident Paris Syndrome will be sure to suit your tastes. It is easy, light hearted and enjoyable, but also confronting at times. For lovers of all things French related, Paris Syndrome offers one delectable slice of Paris!
*I wish to thank Harper Collins Books Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Paris Syndrome is book #23 of the Australian Women Writers Challenge
July 8, 2018
The cover of Paris Syndrome by Lisa Walker totally caught my eye when the book was released earlier this year and I was stoked to finally get my hands on the book last week. Paris Syndrome is a charmingly sweet read aimed at young adult audiences but given its wide appeal, three generations of female readers in most families would enjoy this delightful story.
Veronica Happiness Glass (Happy) moves to Brisbane in the summer before Year Twelve. Happy and her mum have moved from Sydney after family breakdown and Happy dreadfully misses her best friend, Rosie. Luckily, Happy's obsession with Paris sustains her during her loneliness. When Happy wins The French Tourism essay competition she meets eccentric Professor Tanaka, hunky French Alex, and Brisbane gardener, Alex.
Professor Tanaka identifies Happy to be at risk of Paris Syndrome (an ailment afflicting overly enthusiastic lovers of Paris), and Happy agrees to help research the ailment and spends time with both French Alex and Brisbane Alex to further this end. Happy is a quirky teenager whose love of all things French means her wardrobe consists of outfits inspired by the French film, Amelie. She even gets a job at the local cinema because it is showing a series of French films.
Readers will delight in Happy's journey through the summer where she proves herself to be quirky, fun, and true. I particularly enjoyed the multilayered, intergenerational story and descriptions of Brisbane (where I lived for a number of years in my youth).
Paris Syndrome is a touching coming-of-age story and although it deals with some difficult issues at times, Walker deftly keeps the tone light. Paris Syndrome is Walker's first young adult book and I hope to read more teen fiction from her in the future. Highly recommended for those who enjoy references to Paris and want an easy to read book with delightful characters.
Veronica Happiness Glass (Happy) moves to Brisbane in the summer before Year Twelve. Happy and her mum have moved from Sydney after family breakdown and Happy dreadfully misses her best friend, Rosie. Luckily, Happy's obsession with Paris sustains her during her loneliness. When Happy wins The French Tourism essay competition she meets eccentric Professor Tanaka, hunky French Alex, and Brisbane gardener, Alex.
Professor Tanaka identifies Happy to be at risk of Paris Syndrome (an ailment afflicting overly enthusiastic lovers of Paris), and Happy agrees to help research the ailment and spends time with both French Alex and Brisbane Alex to further this end. Happy is a quirky teenager whose love of all things French means her wardrobe consists of outfits inspired by the French film, Amelie. She even gets a job at the local cinema because it is showing a series of French films.
Readers will delight in Happy's journey through the summer where she proves herself to be quirky, fun, and true. I particularly enjoyed the multilayered, intergenerational story and descriptions of Brisbane (where I lived for a number of years in my youth).
Paris Syndrome is a touching coming-of-age story and although it deals with some difficult issues at times, Walker deftly keeps the tone light. Paris Syndrome is Walker's first young adult book and I hope to read more teen fiction from her in the future. Highly recommended for those who enjoy references to Paris and want an easy to read book with delightful characters.
September 25, 2020
Thank you to Harper Collins for the ARC copy I received in exchange for an honest review.
This was an amazing book that's both a conventional and unconventional romance.
Full review to come!
This was an amazing book that's both a conventional and unconventional romance.
Full review to come!
April 29, 2018
This was great! Paris Syndrome is an entertaining, fun read.
January 13, 2018
This is delicious. Like a Mille-feuille, it’s a multilayered read-from the sweet custard of 17yr old Happy, lover of all things French, an irrepressibly upbeat character, to the crisp and flaky pastry of first crushes and life’s harder moments. Many laugh out loud moments, genuine characters, and ultimately as fulfilling as a whole slice of a Mille-feuille just for yourself.
June 11, 2018
Yes, Paris Syndrome is a real thing, who knew?! For lovers of all things French, this novel is pure delight.
September 8, 2018
The Paris Syndrome addressed the idea that Paris is idyllic in one's imagination, but might not meet expectations in reality. It's a story of friendship and romance, and sexual curiosity. A cute coming of age story with a twist at the end. I really enjoyed this book. The cover caught my eye - so pretty.
January 17, 2019
This is the third book out of four given to me by a friend (a high school librarian who knows her books) to read over the summer holidays.
This book is set in Brisbane (Australia) so all the locations (Roma St, South Bank, Milton, St Lucia etc) were really familiar to me and I thought that would provide a sense of attachment. The reality is though that for the first 1/2 to 3/4 of this book I was so disengaged. I had no interest in the lead character (Happy) or in Alex 1 (and his 'Appy) or in the crazy Japanese professor story line or in Paris itself (which is what this book is based on - an irrational and blind love of all things Paris).
I was either going to DNF this book (ha! who are we kidding...me DNF a book) or give it 1-2 stars. But then about 3/4 of the way through the book changes and it becomes deeper and Alex 1 gets the flick and Alex 2 (who I love) and her talented chickens (that I also love) start to shine and the Sydney backstory emerges and I really started to enjoy it.
It is just a pity though as I think it just came too late for me and I think the whole Alex 1/Professor story line could have been given the flick and it would have been a much deeper and engaging story line if the focus has just been on Happy's relationship with Alex 2 and her mother (so more character development). I usually love quirky - but this just missed the mark for me and while it was well written, I think it was just trying to do too much and trying too hard when a simpler approach would have been (to me) far more impacting.
This book is set in Brisbane (Australia) so all the locations (Roma St, South Bank, Milton, St Lucia etc) were really familiar to me and I thought that would provide a sense of attachment. The reality is though that for the first 1/2 to 3/4 of this book I was so disengaged. I had no interest in the lead character (Happy) or in Alex 1 (and his 'Appy) or in the crazy Japanese professor story line or in Paris itself (which is what this book is based on - an irrational and blind love of all things Paris).
I was either going to DNF this book (ha! who are we kidding...me DNF a book) or give it 1-2 stars. But then about 3/4 of the way through the book changes and it becomes deeper and Alex 1 gets the flick and Alex 2 (who I love) and her talented chickens (that I also love) start to shine and the Sydney backstory emerges and I really started to enjoy it.
It is just a pity though as I think it just came too late for me and I think the whole Alex 1/Professor story line could have been given the flick and it would have been a much deeper and engaging story line if the focus has just been on Happy's relationship with Alex 2 and her mother (so more character development). I usually love quirky - but this just missed the mark for me and while it was well written, I think it was just trying to do too much and trying too hard when a simpler approach would have been (to me) far more impacting.
January 1, 2018
Well, I am certainly cured of Paris Syndrome, thanks to Happy & Alex!
Exuberant, but with a sad thread running through it.
Different.
Exuberant, but with a sad thread running through it.
Different.
June 8, 2018
4.5 Stars
The Paris Syndrome was a pleasant surprise. There's something about Aussie books that just have a soft spot in my heart. The writing is always extremely different than lots of the other US and UK titles I read. The characters are original and quirky, and the atmosphere of the towns are well-described and I always get sucked into whatever world they've built. That's why I always say Aussies have some of the best world-building skills in literature, because it's totally believable and you actually feel like you're somewhere.
The Paris Syndrome was like when I had my first drink of Somersby Cider. It was bitter-sweet and it makes you feel all fuzzy and warm inside. It's homey but it really brings out the emotions in you. Wow ok, long analogy over.
Before picking this book up, I had never heard of The Paris Syndrome. I just thought it was the name of this book and that's all. But hey, like I often do, I went and did some background research after reading this and all the talk of articles surrounding middle-aged Asian women going to Paris and getting Paris Syndrome is completely real! I've never read about it in any other book or even heard about it in movies or TV shows, and it actually gave me a lot to think about. I mean, if characters in this book had that syndrome, then it gives me the impression that I may get an equivalent for Japan. That's kind of scary actually!
Anyhooo, this book was plagued with...actually plagued sounds negative, but it was full of so many great themes and plot points. Not only was Paris Syndrome a great central plot point, but so was making new friends and moving old from old ones. In YA fiction we tend to romanticise friendship which sounds dumb and...is dumb. I'm not saying a romantic relationship, but rather, making friends in new towns/areas and getting over the pain of having to dismiss old relationships is a lot less pretty than it's usually made out to be. And I think Lisa Walker totally showed what real relationships are. I love that!
Can we also talk about the co-worker or I guess boss-employee relationship? I loved it. No, don't get your knickers in a knot! It wasn't romantic - it was kind of cute in an almost father-daughter relationship way. Generally in YA we see co-workers always being of the same age and I'm like whyyyy. How does that miraculously happen each time. Answer: it doesn't.
If you're looking for a sweet and cute book but want some great writing, characters and overall a good Aussie (OR FRENCH!) time, I think you need to get your hands on this book!
The Paris Syndrome was a pleasant surprise. There's something about Aussie books that just have a soft spot in my heart. The writing is always extremely different than lots of the other US and UK titles I read. The characters are original and quirky, and the atmosphere of the towns are well-described and I always get sucked into whatever world they've built. That's why I always say Aussies have some of the best world-building skills in literature, because it's totally believable and you actually feel like you're somewhere.
The Paris Syndrome was like when I had my first drink of Somersby Cider. It was bitter-sweet and it makes you feel all fuzzy and warm inside. It's homey but it really brings out the emotions in you. Wow ok, long analogy over.
Before picking this book up, I had never heard of The Paris Syndrome. I just thought it was the name of this book and that's all. But hey, like I often do, I went and did some background research after reading this and all the talk of articles surrounding middle-aged Asian women going to Paris and getting Paris Syndrome is completely real! I've never read about it in any other book or even heard about it in movies or TV shows, and it actually gave me a lot to think about. I mean, if characters in this book had that syndrome, then it gives me the impression that I may get an equivalent for Japan. That's kind of scary actually!
Anyhooo, this book was plagued with...actually plagued sounds negative, but it was full of so many great themes and plot points. Not only was Paris Syndrome a great central plot point, but so was making new friends and moving old from old ones. In YA fiction we tend to romanticise friendship which sounds dumb and...is dumb. I'm not saying a romantic relationship, but rather, making friends in new towns/areas and getting over the pain of having to dismiss old relationships is a lot less pretty than it's usually made out to be. And I think Lisa Walker totally showed what real relationships are. I love that!
Can we also talk about the co-worker or I guess boss-employee relationship? I loved it. No, don't get your knickers in a knot! It wasn't romantic - it was kind of cute in an almost father-daughter relationship way. Generally in YA we see co-workers always being of the same age and I'm like whyyyy. How does that miraculously happen each time. Answer: it doesn't.
If you're looking for a sweet and cute book but want some great writing, characters and overall a good Aussie (OR FRENCH!) time, I think you need to get your hands on this book!
October 30, 2018
Thank you HaroerCollins Australia and Netgalley for an ARc of this wonderful book.
This book was just the tonic for an Australian gal looking for a light, feel good read on a flight to Paris!! I have a new appreciation for The YA genre, and this was the perfect mix of characters, setting and storyline for me.
Thank you for the opportunity to review this book. I recommend it.
This book was just the tonic for an Australian gal looking for a light, feel good read on a flight to Paris!! I have a new appreciation for The YA genre, and this was the perfect mix of characters, setting and storyline for me.
Thank you for the opportunity to review this book. I recommend it.
August 1, 2020
A delightful book set in my home town, which makes it extra kind of special.
January 31, 2025
WUH LUH WUH
May 24, 2018
I had honestly never heard of Paris Syndrome until I read this book. And when I first started it, I didn’t actually know it was a real thing until I finished the book and did a little bit of research online. But apparently it’s a thing – a feeling of let down or shock that Paris in reality is not the romanticised city of their thoughts. It’s classed as a mental disorder.
Happiness (aka Happy) Glass dreams about going to Paris. She and her best friend Rosie have always planned to go. Happy recently moved from Sydney to Brisbane with her mother and she’s feeling a bit lonely and isolated over the summer holidays before school starts. It’s a bit hard to immerse yourself in all things Paris in Brisbane, but Happy gives it her best shot, winning a French essay competition, dressing in her Amelie outfits and getting a job at a cinema playing French films. Winning the essay introduces the two Alexes into Happy’s life and also a Japanese professor who identifies Happy as having a significant risk of Paris Syndrome.
I have to admit, the Paris thing passes me by. I’m not particularly enamoured by it, I don’t seek it out, even in books. But that’s mostly because unlike most people, I don’t really have a strong desire to travel (which is good, because I’m unlikely to ever really get the chance to do extensive overseas travel). There are no real cities I feel a connection with, no places that I long to visit. But I do know that Paris has that certain something for many people and it’s certainly up there as a top destination. And I know people that have been to France and Paris in particular and had mixed reviews of the city. Paris is certainly a very romanticised location, in literature and film. It seems that everyone there is effortlessly cool, wearing haute couture to go pick up their croissants and macarons, wandering along with the Eiffel Tower in the background at night. But nothing can be like that all of the time, so I can understand that the reality might be quite different. And that it might be a let down to people who have really strong feelings about the Paris lifestyle.
This is a really sweet coming of age novel but with several quite serious undertones. Happy is a strong and likeable character, but she does seem at a bit of a loss, struggling up in Brisbane, removed from her best friend Rosie. There are also some family issues that weigh upon her as well. It’s quite fun watching her interacting with the two Alexes, both the male French one who finds her intriguing and also the female gardener Alex who raises chickens and has a far more interesting backstory then was apparent at their first meeting. Also her relationship with her boss Kevin and its evolution over the course of the book is a highlight, it is really enjoyable. The deeper I got into the story the more I realised just how much Happy was going through. Seventeen is such a strange age – not quite an adult but in that place where you’re starting to make decisions about your future, about what you want to do as you move into adulthood. Happy has had several very big things happen to her in quite a short amount of time and it takes a while for all of these things to be revealed which makes the impact felt all the more. Lisa Walker examines not only that cusp of adulthood, but how someone at that stage processes grief and deals with devastating events as well as issues of sexuality. Happy ends up kissing both Alexes and then has to decide what she really wants and how to go about getting it.
I really enjoyed this book – I found the Paris Syndrome stuff quite interesting but I enjoyed the friendships and relationships so much. Happy is just such a lovely character that you want the best for her, that she sort through these things in her head and find the things that make her truly ‘happy’. This has a lot to offer – for lovers of Paris and even those that aren’t beholden to the City of Light. The strength of the character relationships and interactions and the deft way in which Lisa Walker balances the different issues make this the sort of read that will leave a mark.
***A copy of this book was provided by the author for the purpose of an honest review***
Happiness (aka Happy) Glass dreams about going to Paris. She and her best friend Rosie have always planned to go. Happy recently moved from Sydney to Brisbane with her mother and she’s feeling a bit lonely and isolated over the summer holidays before school starts. It’s a bit hard to immerse yourself in all things Paris in Brisbane, but Happy gives it her best shot, winning a French essay competition, dressing in her Amelie outfits and getting a job at a cinema playing French films. Winning the essay introduces the two Alexes into Happy’s life and also a Japanese professor who identifies Happy as having a significant risk of Paris Syndrome.
I have to admit, the Paris thing passes me by. I’m not particularly enamoured by it, I don’t seek it out, even in books. But that’s mostly because unlike most people, I don’t really have a strong desire to travel (which is good, because I’m unlikely to ever really get the chance to do extensive overseas travel). There are no real cities I feel a connection with, no places that I long to visit. But I do know that Paris has that certain something for many people and it’s certainly up there as a top destination. And I know people that have been to France and Paris in particular and had mixed reviews of the city. Paris is certainly a very romanticised location, in literature and film. It seems that everyone there is effortlessly cool, wearing haute couture to go pick up their croissants and macarons, wandering along with the Eiffel Tower in the background at night. But nothing can be like that all of the time, so I can understand that the reality might be quite different. And that it might be a let down to people who have really strong feelings about the Paris lifestyle.
This is a really sweet coming of age novel but with several quite serious undertones. Happy is a strong and likeable character, but she does seem at a bit of a loss, struggling up in Brisbane, removed from her best friend Rosie. There are also some family issues that weigh upon her as well. It’s quite fun watching her interacting with the two Alexes, both the male French one who finds her intriguing and also the female gardener Alex who raises chickens and has a far more interesting backstory then was apparent at their first meeting. Also her relationship with her boss Kevin and its evolution over the course of the book is a highlight, it is really enjoyable. The deeper I got into the story the more I realised just how much Happy was going through. Seventeen is such a strange age – not quite an adult but in that place where you’re starting to make decisions about your future, about what you want to do as you move into adulthood. Happy has had several very big things happen to her in quite a short amount of time and it takes a while for all of these things to be revealed which makes the impact felt all the more. Lisa Walker examines not only that cusp of adulthood, but how someone at that stage processes grief and deals with devastating events as well as issues of sexuality. Happy ends up kissing both Alexes and then has to decide what she really wants and how to go about getting it.
I really enjoyed this book – I found the Paris Syndrome stuff quite interesting but I enjoyed the friendships and relationships so much. Happy is just such a lovely character that you want the best for her, that she sort through these things in her head and find the things that make her truly ‘happy’. This has a lot to offer – for lovers of Paris and even those that aren’t beholden to the City of Light. The strength of the character relationships and interactions and the deft way in which Lisa Walker balances the different issues make this the sort of read that will leave a mark.
***A copy of this book was provided by the author for the purpose of an honest review***
June 11, 2018
sweet and quirky, but not without its serious moments, this one is a must read for for fans of the French film Amelie, and anyone who has (perhaps unrealistic) dreams of Parisienne perfection.
I gave it 3.5 stars.
I gave it 3.5 stars.
June 3, 2018
Happy Glass is a lover of all things French! She dreams of the day when she can go to Paris and experience the magic it has to offer.
Happy has no plans for her school break. She has no friends since moving to Brisbane. Her best friend Rosie lives in Sydney and isn't around for her like she used to be. Having just won a french essay writing competition she decides to use her earnings to get a french tattoo. That would hopefully get Rosie's attention but at the tattoo parlour she meets Alex, a sexy french tourism intern. Soon after she meets girl Alex, a gardener for Professor Tanaka and they both recruit her to help them find the cure for Paris Syndrome, a syndrome they both fear that she has.
Happy does not believe she has Paris Syndrome but offers to help as she uses looking for a cure to spend time with boy Alex. To save from confusing the Alex's she names them Alex One (boy) and Alex Two (girl).
After kissing boy and girl Alex she is soon confused about which one she likes more and so starts a very interesting school break.
Happy is the funniest and quirkiest character I have read in a long time. I love how much she loves Paris. I love how she can turn any situation better by imagining it taking place in Paris. I love her curly hair struggles and anyone who can wear a tea cosy as a hat and make it fashionable is the kind of person I would like to be around. Plus anyone who loves Milo as much as Happy is definitely a winner!
I loved this story! As someone who probably has Paris Syndrome it was probably not the best book to read as it made me want to go to Paris even more than I already do. Not only was Happy relateable but she is the kind of person you wish would get her happy ending. This is one of the best stories about finding yourself I have read in a while and I loved that it was set in Australia. I loved all the Australian references thrown in and I loved the side story that was happening with Professor Tanaka!
I would definitely recommend this book to any Paris lover or just anyone in general who is looking for a fun quick read!
Thank you to Harper Collins and Netgalley for providing me with a advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
Happy has no plans for her school break. She has no friends since moving to Brisbane. Her best friend Rosie lives in Sydney and isn't around for her like she used to be. Having just won a french essay writing competition she decides to use her earnings to get a french tattoo. That would hopefully get Rosie's attention but at the tattoo parlour she meets Alex, a sexy french tourism intern. Soon after she meets girl Alex, a gardener for Professor Tanaka and they both recruit her to help them find the cure for Paris Syndrome, a syndrome they both fear that she has.
Happy does not believe she has Paris Syndrome but offers to help as she uses looking for a cure to spend time with boy Alex. To save from confusing the Alex's she names them Alex One (boy) and Alex Two (girl).
After kissing boy and girl Alex she is soon confused about which one she likes more and so starts a very interesting school break.
Happy is the funniest and quirkiest character I have read in a long time. I love how much she loves Paris. I love how she can turn any situation better by imagining it taking place in Paris. I love her curly hair struggles and anyone who can wear a tea cosy as a hat and make it fashionable is the kind of person I would like to be around. Plus anyone who loves Milo as much as Happy is definitely a winner!
I loved this story! As someone who probably has Paris Syndrome it was probably not the best book to read as it made me want to go to Paris even more than I already do. Not only was Happy relateable but she is the kind of person you wish would get her happy ending. This is one of the best stories about finding yourself I have read in a while and I loved that it was set in Australia. I loved all the Australian references thrown in and I loved the side story that was happening with Professor Tanaka!
I would definitely recommend this book to any Paris lover or just anyone in general who is looking for a fun quick read!
Thank you to Harper Collins and Netgalley for providing me with a advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2018
*I received this ARC via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*
Okay I loved that this was set in Australia because there's never enough Oz YA in my life, and I also loved that is was real gay, because queer Oz YA is staggeringly absent for the most part, but from there things go a little south. I could feel the story line and the main character trying to be quirky and unique but it eventually just felt like it was trying a little too hard, and whilst yes, I would fall under the Paris Syndrome sufferer category, it being my favourite city in the world despite being well-travelled and my huge love of all things French and Amelie as well, I just didn't really care about the plot and didn't think it was interesting enough to centre the book around. Happy was also really annoying as a main character, and I would have much preferred the story be in the perspective of Alex Two (the female one).
Okay I loved that this was set in Australia because there's never enough Oz YA in my life, and I also loved that is was real gay, because queer Oz YA is staggeringly absent for the most part, but from there things go a little south. I could feel the story line and the main character trying to be quirky and unique but it eventually just felt like it was trying a little too hard, and whilst yes, I would fall under the Paris Syndrome sufferer category, it being my favourite city in the world despite being well-travelled and my huge love of all things French and Amelie as well, I just didn't really care about the plot and didn't think it was interesting enough to centre the book around. Happy was also really annoying as a main character, and I would have much preferred the story be in the perspective of Alex Two (the female one).
November 7, 2018
Yep, another YA about Paris. Ironically, this is all about Paris Syndrome- believing a county or city is way better than the reality turns out to be. Funnily enough, having had more than my fair share of relationships end in Paris, I should be all too aware of this syndrome! Happiness Glass has just moved to Brisbane. In finding her feet and finding new friends, she realises she has to let go of her past. There is a LOT going on in this novel. Fewer plot twists might have allowed the secondary characters to develop further. But it was a fun read.
March 1, 2024
I loved the idea, but the execution was awful. Happy was trying too hard to be unique and different compared to everyone else. Also, Happy's delusions and her walls talking to her is weird and upsetting. It could have been executed really well if everyone wasn't trying to be different. I do like how she ends up with girl Alex in the end, because she was the only good Alex out of the two.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 7, 2024
Thought it was good once the first half got done and we finally saw Happy stop listing every Parisian thing in the world like she was in a French version of Ready Player One. Additionally, the back cover of the book liked by saying she ends up having no Alex at all, when she severs ties with Alex 1 and ends up with Alex 2, so blatant misrepresentation of the story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 25, 2018
A delightful read for either teen or adult reader. Well written and an interesting look at all things Parisienne.
June 8, 2019
3.5 stars. Totally fine YA novel but nothing stand out. Didn’t see the plot twist coming which was good.
November 10, 2020
The main character starts off a bit annoying, I was not impressed with her “confessing” to obscure ailments that she did not have. But she definitely improved as the novel went on.
July 28, 2024
This was one of the books that I found myself doing a tug of war between if I loved or hated it. 3🌟
September 3, 2023
I don't understand how anyone can read this, the main character, Happy, is an infuriating pick me, whose whole personality is based on stereotypes and the fetishization of a nation. I could barely make it to chapter 5 without constant eye rolling at how "different" she was to her peers.
Also not a fan of Walker's use of abbreviated words and constant use of "Ah," when every french character is talking, just feels like cheap writing.
Also not a fan of Walker's use of abbreviated words and constant use of "Ah," when every french character is talking, just feels like cheap writing.
May 3, 2023
Cute and dumb and cringy and trying a little too hard to be quirky, but still fun.
March 25, 2023
2023 review:
Just as lovely as I remembered <3
original 2021 review:
This was honestly so lovely. I loved every second of it. Happy was such a wonderful protagonist, I adored the Brisbane setting with the idea of Paris looming overhead. Such a great way to reach my Reading Goal for 2021.
Hopefully, a full review to come!
Just as lovely as I remembered <3
original 2021 review:
This was honestly so lovely. I loved every second of it. Happy was such a wonderful protagonist, I adored the Brisbane setting with the idea of Paris looming overhead. Such a great way to reach my Reading Goal for 2021.
Hopefully, a full review to come!
August 14, 2021
This was a delightful little read that also touches on some big YA (life) themes - grief, family and friendship breakdowns, personal and sexual identity - but, in a very gentle way. There were a few twists I did not see coming and the characters were endearing.
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