An American in Paris navigates her family’s secret past and unlocks her own future, in this emotionally evocative novel by New York Times bestselling author Juliet Blackwell.As a girl, Genevieve Martin spent the happiest summer of her life in Paris, learning the delicate art of locksmithing at her uncle’s side. But since then, living back in the States, she has become more private, more subdued. … more private, more subdued. She has been an observer of life rather than an active participant, holding herself back from those around her, including her soon-to-be-ex-husband.
Paris never really left Genevieve, and, as her marriage crumbles, she finds herself faced with an incredible opportunity: return to the magical city of her youth to take over her late uncle’s shop. But as she absorbs all that Parisian culture has to offer, she realizes the city also holds secrets about her family that could change her forever, and that locked doors can protect you or imprison you, depending on which side of them you stand.
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This is a well written book that examines the lives of a mother and daughter. Their stories are interwoven at different times in their lives and it is both a mystery and a romance as the daughter uncovers her mother’s life in Paris.
I selected this book because I love Paris and imagined there would be some incredible secrets unlocked, beginning with the locksmith shop. The story and writing lacked allure and appeal. I listened to the audio and had to keep adjusting the volume because the narrator would practically whisper or get too soft and raspy at times. It took me days to finish because I just couldn’t appreciate it. I did enjoy how it ended, however.
Great story, but I feel like it feel a little flat at the end.
I njoyed the descriptions of Paris and the information on the sousterrains. A little too much of “romance”, but a good summer read.
Blackwell is an excellent writer – her Paris books are both wonderful – I really enjoyed them – original, interesting.
Started and finished it this weekend. Really enjoyed the descriptive use to make you actually see Paris. The characters were fun. The mystery and good story telling was really enjoyable. I would totally recommend this book. Had great fun reading. It made me immediately want to read another good book.
Couldn’t stop reading. A great story about The joy and sadness that comes with being human.
The Paris Key is a fun way to revisit parts of Paris, learn some history, be introduced in an intriguing way to the structure of locks, and enjoy some lovely characters all while unraveling a consuming plot. I enjoyed this book and think other readers will also. My only objection was the jumping back and forth between Angela’s time there and her daughter’s. Sometimes annoying as the plot thread kept getting interrupted. However, it all meshed in the end.