These Novels Will Transport You Straight to Paris

Woman reading in Paris, France
Photo by Mariana Dal Chico on Unsplash

Paris has served as a source of inspiration for writers for centuries. Whether it’s the city’s rich history, unique culture, or renowned cuisine, we can’t say, but whatever it is has captivated writers and led them to make Paris the backdrop for countless novels and memoirs. Here are some of our favorite books that will have you feeling like you’re at a cafe in the middle of the City of Light—we recommend enjoying with some hot chocolate and a croissant. 

The Little Paris Bookshop

This novel by Nina George follows a broken-hearted bookseller as he embarks on a journey to find the literary soulmate he lost decades before. More than just a beautiful setting, the story shares a message about books and their power to help us heal.

The Sweet Life in Paris

Cookbook author and pastry chef David Lebovitz shares insights and observations in this funny and charming memoir about his experience moving to Paris, learning the ins and outs of French culture and cooking French cuisine. Don’t read this one while hungry.

The Paris Wife

Fans of historical fiction are sure to love The Paris Wife, a novel by Paula McLain about Ernest Hemingway’s first marriage to Hadley Richardson. The story is written from Hadley’s perspective and explores their relationship as they move to Paris and befriend other artists and writers of the time.