Love Locks

by Cory Martin, Emily Rankin (narrator)

Once upon a time in Paris, Lindsey, an idealistic young painter, and Jack, the son of a hotel owner, fell in love. Before Lindsey returned to New York, she and Jack wanted to attach a lock to the Pont de Arts bridge—a traditional way to symbolize their eternal devotion.

But they accidentally dropped their lock into the river. And although they made plans for Jack to join her in New York, he never did. Twenty years have passed. Lindsey, now a divorced businesswoman, has returned to Paris with her daughter, who will be studying art at the Sorbonne. Lindsey’s own dreams of being an artist are long gone.

When Lindsey and Jack meet again, all their memories come rushing back...along with their regrets. Could they recapture the magic they shared when they were young? Or will it be too late for a love they once believed would last forever?

This book includes a free recipe for French Potato Salad with Haricot Verts.

Genres: Romance, Fiction, France, Contemporary Romance, Audiobook

Audiobook

First published April 23, 2019

About the author

A graduate of the University of Southern California, Cory has a B.A. in English-Creative Writing, and spent time studying literature at Cambridge University in England. By the age of twenty-five, she had garnered writing credits on the hit television show, "The O.C." and had been asked by Scholastic to pen three young adult novels based on the same T.V. series. She is the author of "Love Sick" a memoir about dating, life in Hollywood and dealing with MS. Her essays have appeared online with XOJane, The Mighty, and Elephant Journal.

As a passionate yogi, Cory Martin is also a 500-hr RYT and a regular instructor at the famed Santa Monica Pier's run and yoga program, ROGA. She teaches at various studios around Los Angeles and is the writer behind the documentary film "Titans of Yoga" and her book "Yoga for Beginners" was released in August, 2015 by Althea Press.

To find out more about Cory follow her on Instagram at @corymartinwrites or on facebook at fb/corymartinyoga

Reviews

[Anna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Those who know me well know that Hallmark’s romance movies are my guilty pleasure. I can watch the Hallmark movie marathons all weekend, and I’ve seen some of the movies multiple times. They aren’t Oscar-worthy movies, but they are just the thing when I need to de-stress and enjoy something lighthearted and predictable. (Ask my husband, and he’ll tell you that if I’m cranky, he’ll turn on Hallmark and let me be. :D) So when I saw that Hallmark has its own publishing company, I thought I’d give one of the books a shot.

I chose Love Locks by Cory Martin because I had stumbled upon the movie and watched the last hour of it, enjoying the Paris setting and the theme of second chances. I was curious if a book based on the movie would measure up, especially since I normally watch movies based on books and not the other way around.

Love Locks follows Lindsey, who was an art student and painter in Paris when she fell in love with Jack, the son of a hotel owner. The couple planned to commemorate their love by attaching a lock to the Pont des Arts bridge, but after their lock accidentally falls into the river and Jack doesn’t follow her back to New York as planned, she gave up painting and moved on with her life.

Twenty years later, Lindsey is divorced, the owner of an art magazine, and the proud mother of Alexa, who is following in Lindsey’s footsteps by studying art at the Sorbonne with Lindsey’s mentor, Hugo. Accompanying Alexa to Paris to help get her settled stirs up memories of Jack, and with some meddling by Hugo, Lindsey and Jack are reunited. While Lindsey and Jack ease back into a friendship of sorts and attempt to come to terms with their past, Lindsey has some tough choices to make about her magazine and must learn to accept that her daughter is an adult and eager to fall in love and go out on her own.

What surprised me the most about Love Locks was the writing. Martin brings the story to life in a way that the movie does not, giving readers a glimpse into the characters’ thoughts and fleshing out the story. Having seen the movie, I could easily picture the story in my mind, but I would’ve enjoyed the book regardless. The epilogue was a nice touch, giving readers a chance to see what happens to the characters after the movie ended. And there is a recipe at the end as well, which is an added bonus.

Love Locks was just what you’d expect from a book based on a Hallmark movie: lighthearted, humorous, and romantic. The characters were believable and endearing, and I couldn’t help but feel for Lindsey as I prepare to send my own daughter off to college in a few months. I would definitely give another book from Hallmark Publishing a try, especially since having seen the movie didn’t dampen my enjoyment of the book at all.

Review posted on Diary of an Eccentric

[Dave · Rating 4 out of 5]

When you pick up any story or watch any movie with the Hallmark name on it, there's usually no surprise as to what will happen by the final page. And still, we are captivated by these romantic love stories. Why? Because it's not so much about what happens in the end, but how we arrive there that matters most. It's the journey, not the destination.

This book by Ms. Martin, my first foray into Hallmark Publishing books, envelops us in that emotional world of first and old loves, drawing us into the character's thoughts and actions as if we were there with them on the page. Or, more appropriately, on the streets of Paris. I've never visited the City of Light (and Love) but it's on my short list of places I'd love to see. Even though I've never been there, Cory immerses us in the romantic atmosphere such that we experience it with all our senses.

The parallel love stories stretching across three different generations allows us to experience that beautiful bliss of love from several different angles and through the eyes of those young and not so young. It reaffirms the belief that love is stronger than any obstacle the world may place in its path. I finished this book in a lighthearted and hopeful mood, with a smile on my face and in my heart.

While this may have been my first Hallmark Publishing book, it certainly won't be my last. The way these stories grab the reader (or watcher, in the case of movies), pull you in, and surrounds you with emotional warmth and hope, is both needed more in this world and an important reason why Hallmark movies and books continue to inspire me to, well, love "love".

[Bev Walkling · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

My husband and I took a trip to Europe in Fall of 2017 and one of the things that we saw in numerous cities and towns that we visited were bridges covered in locks - many engraved with names and a date. I was drawn to this book because of the locks that we had seen and the idea that each couple would have had their own unique story. What indeed might have happened if the lock had been inadvertently dropped in the river below?

This book tells the story of one such couple, but it is more than just their story as it transcends generations and shows that sometimes Love arrives when one least expects it. The book was based on a Hallmark Video which I have not seen so I can't speak as to how accurately it depicts what was in the movie. I can say, however, that it is a feel good book and is suitable for teens,young adults and adults in general. The characters are like-able and the reader is not exposed to harsh language, violence or graphic sexual interactions. It was a quick easy read that made me smile. Enjoy!

[T'Shura Sinclair · Rating 5 out of 5]

A very good book, am going to look for the movie to watch.

[Michelle · Rating 2 out of 5]

Ugh, I had to read a romance novel for a library BINGO square. The good thing is I completed the card. Romance novels such as this are not my thing. It was quick though. If your into a fluffy, light, non- thought provoking Hallmark read pick this one up.

[Kirby · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher (Hallmark Publishing) via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own.

Love Locks is a sweet, contemporary romance that highlights second chances, risking your heart, and never giving up on your one true love. I've always enjoyed hearing about the bridges in Paris where couples would hang a lock to represent their everlasting love, and it was neat to see a book written about this tradition.

Lindsey and Jack were one such couple; a couple that fell in love in their early twenties in Paris, and wanted to place a lock on the bridge to symbolize how they felt about each other. However, fate has other plans when the lock is swept into the river below in the process, and soon after their romance is no more. Lindsey is now a divorced, magazine owner and operator, who's slightly bitter against love, and has never been back to the city where she first gave her heart away. When her daughter decides to follow in her footsteps and study a semester abroad in Paris to work on her developing her artistic talent, Lindsey accompanies her for the journey. Sometimes second chances happen when we least expect them, as Lindsey is stunned to discover that the beautiful hotel they're staying in is owned by none other than Jack himself!

Jack and Lindsey's journey back to finding each other and finding love once again was beautifully written, especially with the vivid descriptions of Paris as their backdrop. I've never personally visited Europe, but I could create a pretty amazing mental picture from the way the author describes all the historic landmarks, the lights, the food, and the atmosphere. While I enjoyed Lindsey and Jack's story, I also really enjoyed the focus on the other two couple's throughout the story, and the way that its highlighted that love can happen at any time, and can span many generations. I really enjoyed this story overall, and I thought the ending was perfect, even though it was slightly cheesy, it was exactly what I've come to expect from Hallmark, and it definitely left me with the warm fuzzies. I personally can't say how close it stays to the movie as I've yet to watch it, but I did enjoy the book. I gave it three out of five stars, and I'll for sure be looking forward to reading more from Hallmark publishing in the future!

Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐

Thanks so much to NetGalley and Hallmark Publishing for the opportunity to have advance read this.

[Debi Stout · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story takes place in the City of Lights Paris, France.  Lindsey Wilson and Jack Burrows are both Americans in their early twenties, and they met at the Sorbonne.  Lindsey was an art student and Jack was studying business.  Their journey began with their meeting, and continues as they become friends, as they begin courting, as they fall in love.  Lindsey and Jack both had big dreams too; she wanted to paint and he planned to own his own hotel one day.

Lindsey was returning home after her semester of art and Jack promised to visit her in New York when he finished school.  The Paris tradition was that couples would write their names on a lock, and place it on the Pont des Arts bridge.  They would then throw away the key to ensure that their love will last forever.   Lindsey and Jack planned to declare their devotion to one another, but the lock slipped from Jack’s hand and fell into the water.  Then Jack never visited her in New York.

Flash forward Twenty years and Lindsey is divorced from her ex-husband, Dane.   Lindsey and her 18-year old daughter, Alexa, are returning to Paris where Alexa is going to be enrolling in school at the Sorbonne to study art like her mother, who is now an art magazine publisher.  Trent Greer, a 46 year old bachelor, has offered to buy Lindsey's magazine and she has decided she will think over his offer while she is in Paris. Trent offers to show Lindsey the Paris office when she had time.

Arriving at the Hotel Pierre Du Calvet, which is the hotel Lindsey's mentor in art, Hugo, had recommended, Lindsey encounters the owner of the hotel - none other than her college boyfriend, Jack, who was her first love.  Jack is now dating Nicole.

Trent is waiting for Lindsey to go with him to see the offices.  Do Lindsey and Jack have a chance to get back together?  Hallmark does an excellent job of describing Paris - "The City of Love" - and I loved this story.  While I haven't seen the Hallmark movie yet, I do plan on it soon.

I was provided with a complimentary ebook from Hallmark Publishing in exchange for a post sharing the news about the book. They did not require a positive post on the ebook, but because it was really good, we are glad to do to!! Thanks Hallmark Publishing!

[Ruth Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.

When I first watched this film on Hallmark last year, I wasn't overly excited about the characters. I absolutely adored the scenery and the locale (I love Paris), but it wasn't a top film for me. It had its moments, but it was almost a forgettable movie for me.

Upon first hearing that Hallmark was publishing a novelization of the movie, I initially despaired. I wasn't a massive fan of the movie, so why would I find this book intriguing? But like any good reviewer, I went into the reading of this book with my mind open. And I'm happy to report that was the best possible way to approach this book.

As I began to read this book, I found that perhaps I had initially misjudged the story. The author did an incredible job of setting the stage and detailing much information about the characters and their backstories. I found that because I had only seen the movie once, I had forgotten so much. The more I read, the more the story drew me in. I found myself adoring each of the characters and understanding their motivations. In fact, while I have not seen the movie again since reading this novelization, I already find myself predisposed to give the movie another chance and watch it from a different perspective.

Rarely would I ever state that a novelization is better than a movie. Perhaps I'd consider reviewing them equally. But my highest praise goes to Cory Martin and Hallmark Publishing for altering my perspective on a Hallmark movie because of this exceptionally-written book. I never found myself wanting for more action; the pace of the story was ideal. The characters were three-dimensional, and I found myself invested in each of the love stories. I greatly anticipate the next time I have the opportunity to watch this movie. While I always loved the actors who portrayed the characters, I was not immersed in the movie. But now as a result of the book, I can honestly declare that I will never view any portions of this movie or book in a negative light.

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found this story sweet for a couple reasons: the locks on the bridge, the Paris backdrop, and the relationships of 3 couples of different ages. There are also so many directions I could go in reviewing this story, but I'll go this route. Rediscovered passion, finding new love, reclaiming lost love, vivid descriptions of Paris, and second chances. This story is all that and so much more! The characters are real, the love that blossoms for all 3 couples is exquisite, and I had to make sure to take a couple chapters at a time otherwise I would have stayed up all night trying to read it all. I also love how the backstory of the main character isn't dragged on and kept to a reasonable amount to give readers enough information. Plus, I find the idea of locks to show your love quite unique!! Neat idea! If you want to escape to Paris through a book for a while, this one is a good choice.

I received this book from BookFunnel and Hallmark Publishing in exchange for an honest review.

[Koren | the_blue_eyed_bluestocking · Rating 3 out of 5]

Another cute and quick read by Hallmark Publishing. While I have really enjoyed Hallmark putting their movies to the page, this one lacked in chemistry. There are three love stories that this story follows, but the most endearing ones are the minor two stories, rather than the major one between Jack and Lindsey. The basic premise is that two former flames meet again twenty years after love gone awry. Twenty years of regrets and their reunion is somewhat anticlimactic. The true pleasure here, for folks who have also enjoyed the movie, is the epilogue. It provides some of the closure that the movies sometimes do not. But even in this epilogue, the relationship focus is not the one you would expect. I read this in a few hours on a rainy day and overall it was an enjoyable read. I'll continue to look out for favorites from Hallmark Publishing.

I was given an advanced copy from my friends at Netgalley.com in exchange for my honest review.

[Joy Crain · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I LOVE HALLMARK CHANNEL.

I remember the movie Love Locks when I started reading this book which made it all the more special.

Lindsey and Jack were in love in their twenties and about to seal their love by putting their own lock on the famous love lock bridge...except...the lock slipped and fell into the river...so did their love. Now it's twenty years later and the two are about to come together once again in the famous City of Love. Can their love spark after all these years, or are they destined to stay apart once more?

This is such a cute novel which gives more insight into the story than the movie. I highly enjoyed this and is appropriate for all readers.

And make sure to check out the Hallmark Hall Of Fame Movie "Love Locks."

[Himanish Prabhakar · Rating 4 out of 5]

My review is 4.3 stars

I'm very big fan and black hole who sucks Hallmark movies in and I'm reading books since I was 7. So when I get to know that Hallmark movies are now books too, I was over the moon because I will love to cherish the same story in one of my more favourite versions and I really did.

I loved the book version more, sorry movies! But the way book is written is quite beautiful and really loved it. I loved the characters more in comparison of the movie.

Really looking forward for more Hallmark Movies to be converted to books.

[Dana Hinders · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a short and sweet, feel good romance -- exactly what you'd expect from a title based on a Hallmark Channel movie. I haven't seen the movie, but I did enjoy this book. The comparison between Lindsey's Paris experience and her daughter's young love added a bit of depth that made the story more enjoyable than your traditional "boy meets girl" romance.

[Kristen Amen · Rating 3 out of 5]

A cute story based on the charming Hallmark movie; I enjoyed the book even more than the movie since it had some back story and added more to the ending. A cute, fun read that will make you fall in love with Paris.

[Judy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love Locks has believable characters, people I would like to know. I particularly liked reading a romance that included romances developing among older people, rather than just people in their 20s.

I received an ARC from the publisher through NetGalley.

[poppy · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was a cute read and just great to curl up with but I have to admit I just was not feeling the characters in this one the did not seem to click or have much chemistry but that could just be me so don't let me put you off. It was still an okay read and worth a shot

[Di · Rating 5 out of 5]

Young Love, Forever Love

New Author for me. Kind of a new genre too. Young Love, Forever Love. I felt every emotion of this. I felt that I could see the art, in how descriptive it was written. Well done. I could see how this was also a Hallmark movie.

[Pianogirl1126 · Rating 4 out of 5]

fun story to read on a Sunday

[Suzanne · Rating 3 out of 5]

Total Hallmark movie material. A cute story.

[Marg · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is definitely a romcom - easy read.
Entertaining.

I really enjoyed it

[Gena Lott · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cute, if predictable, love story. Actually 3 love stories in one.
Made me want to go to France more than ever!

[Natasha Dean · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5*

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is the perfect break from reality. Sometimes you just need to immerse yourself and break from the insanity of real life. If that's what you need, it is perfect for you!

[Sarah Seelbaugh · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was truly remarkable. Immediately after finishing it, I watched the movie adaptation, and both left me breathless. The story centers around a dedicated single mother who ultimately fulfills her dreams. She sacrifices love, hoping for a better outcome that never comes to fruition. Her daughter, inspired by her mother’s journey, pursues her own aspirations for the future. During a vacation, she confronts her past, and all the emotions resurface. She sells what she has built from the ground up and decisively chooses her path in life. It was both heartwarming and heartbreaking. You definitely need to read this book; it’s fantastic! Kudos to Cory Martin for this incredible work!

[Sarah Unmasked · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.3 stars

A really easy breezy read. More enjoyable if you like Paris and art culture.

[Neha · Rating 4 out of 5]

A decent read with a surprisingly genuine and heartwarming plot that unfortunately falls a little flat by the obvious inexperience of the author. The vocabulary and sentence structure could have been vastly improved for its target audience, and the writing could have benefited from more flair and originality. Despite these shortcomings, however, the story does manage to strike a chord with its readers, in terms of emotional prowess and the tugs-at-your-heart-strings vibe it projects throughout, which is typical of the Hallmark brand. Overall, the mother-daughter duo of Lindsey and Alexa as two central characters in the plot, who share an enviable relationship of affection and camaraderie between themselves, and who each manage to find romance in the City of Love, Paris, makes this book what it is, an enjoyable read from start to finish with an uncanny ability to show the complex, yet warm, dynamics of having strong human connections.

[Melmo2610 · Rating 5 out of 5]

A super sweet story mostly set in my favorite city Paris. What's not to love?? I really enjoyed this second chance romance. Now to watch the movie!