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Last updated on May 18th, 2024
From Paris, in Love by Elodie Colliard is the second book in the “It’s Always Been You” series and details the story between Miles and Riley, two best friends navigating the blurry lines between love and friendship.
With engaging characters, steamy scenes, and a Parisian backdrop, this book is a must-read for fans of friends to lovers stories.
From Paris, In Love – Elodie Colliard
GENRE: Romantic comedy
PUB DATE: September 15, 2023
TWs: infertility, domestic abuse
TROPES: friends to lovers, office romance, forced proximity
With engaging characters, steamy scenes, and a Parisian backdrop, this book is a must-read for fans of friends-to-lovers stories.
Pros
swoon-worthy, dirty talking MMC
sizzling chemistry
well paced slow burn romance
strong female lead
enlightening exploration of heavy themes
dual POVs
romantic Parisian backdrop
Cons
didn't agree with some plot points
some miscommunication
Synopsis
Miles Clark has everything he needs in his life. Well, almost everything. An exciting new job that challenges him every day, a sister and mother he loves beyond words, an amazing rugby team with his best friend Tyler, and a supportive business partner, Riley, that always makes him want to give his all. But the one person he truly wants, he cannot have. Even if it means keeping his feelings for Riley to himself.
Riley Fletcher is done being walked all over. After several years in a rocky marriage that ended in disaster, she’s determined to reclaim her life and her sole focus is now on her new business with Miles. With so much riding on their success, Riley refuses to let something as trivial as an attraction to a man get in the way. Especially when said man is her colleague.
When Miles and Riley are offered an all-expenses-paid trip to Paris to work with a client at the International Wine Festival, the opportunity for the firm is too good to pass up. But two weeks together in the world’s most romantic city puts Riley and Miles’ resolve to the test as the two do everything they can not to cave in to their desires.
But what if this business getaway is exactly what they need to get past their fears and mend their bruised hearts? Will they be brave enough to say oui to opening up to love or will they fall back into old patterns and let doubts and uncertainties overcome their feelings for each other?
Characters
The romance was delightful! From the sweet gestures to the dirty talking, I adored every aspect of Miles and Riley’s story. Their strong friendship made their romance even more endearing when they crossed the line into being lovers.
Miles
He cooks and bakes pastries, is sensitive and respectful, talks dirty, and is head over heels in love with Riley. Could he be any more perfect? I blame romance novels for my unrealistic expectations of men in real life.
Colliard crafted him into a well-balanced character. He is ruthless at work and in rugby, but he’s a big softie for his sister and Riley. I admired his pro-therapy vibes and his dedication to personal growth.
My favorite thing about him was how he empowered Riley and made her feel safe after her abusive relationship.
“You don’t need me. You want me. And I want you. Just as you are. Wholesome, strong, beautiful, and stubborn… I just want to be by your side, holding your hand while you conquer the world. Just because I want to.”
Riley
She’s a solid female lead. Fresh out of a toxic marriage, she’s determined to prove her worth and rebuild her self-esteem. I enjoyed getting to know her ambitious and assertive side as she strives to succeed in a world dominated by men.
At the same time, it was heartwarming to see her vulnerable and insecure side when she was with Miles. The way she handles her PTSD reactions from her abusive ex throughout the story feels very real and genuine.
Side Characters
I think the best friends of the main characters are my favorite types of side characters. Tyler, Miles’ best friend, added great laugh-out-loud dialogues that make the book much more enjoyable.
Plot
This is a slow burn done the right way. The fears holding them back from crossing the line were understandable, so the relationship’s progression felt organic.
The push and pull between Miles and Riley was torturous (in a good way) and kept me engaged. I was screaming at them so many times to just kiss already, but alas, the tension continued. But when they finally gave in, it was so worth the wait.
The book explores heavy themes such as male infertility and domestic abuse. It was refreshing and enlightening to read about fertility issues from a male’s perspective, and the impact was well-written.
There was a mild miscommunication plotline, but fortunately, it wasn’t unnecessarily prolonged. The final conflict was also handled well, with a healthy dose of communication.
However, there were a few minor plot points that I disagreed with (no spoilers).
Writing
The spicy scenes were S-P-I-C-Y. They reminded me of reading Tessa Bailey novels, but with a bit more soft-hearted romance. I always knew Miles had it in him, but seeing Riley’s intimate side was a delightful surprise. The slow-burn chemistry between them was definitely worth the wait.
I especially enjoyed the Paris setting and how it heightened the romantic tension between the MCs. If you’re a fan of vacation stories with forced proximity, I highly recommend trying this book.
Having dual points of view in the story really helped make it more believable and engaging.
Best Quotes
Conclusion
From Paris, In Love is a sweet, sexy, and refreshing story about trusting love again. If you love friends-to-lovers stories where the guy falls first and hard, then definitely check this one out.
Enjoyed this review? Then, add ‘From Paris, In Love’ to your TBR. And if you have already read this book and have some thoughts to share, drop them in the comments below. I would love to hear them!
