Colliard's first novel, The Last Encore, was a favourite Canadian romance read for me in 2022. So naturally I was super excited to see copies of her second novel in this series on NetGalley.

It does not disappoint at all! Colliard tackles tough topics and although the cover may look like it's all sunshine and roses (or croissants and red wine) it's really not - and I applaud her for taking on these issues (including domestic abuse and infertility) and wrapping them up in a really authentic (yet somewhat fantastical) romance novel that I think will speak to a lot of readers.

I LOVE all the Canadian specifics. Like, there's no mistaking this is a book set in a very Canadian Toronto. And the assumption in France that Riley and Miles are Americans - so spot on! I also like that the links to the first novel are genuine and really well done - sometimes I find those connections fake but the connection between Miles and his sister Avery (the FMC of The Last Encore) are really genuine and a lovely part of the story.

I also like how there were definitely hints in The Last Encore that came back to me as I read this novel and I like how Colliard sets up the start of the novel to really give us the background on this friends or co-workers to lovers romance. The part that's a bit fantastical (to me) is the two weeks in France but you know, reading romance is all about suspending a bit of belief while reading and I'm here for that!

Unfortunately this was a DNF for me; I gave it 100 pages but I struggled to find any part of it that I enjoyed.

Omg such a great romcom! Swoon worthy scenes and I loved the main characters together….sigh!
My first book from this author and def won’t be my last.
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC!

At first I found it hard to get an idea of Miles and Riley's personalities as the dual POV made it tricky but as the story progressed, their character shone through.

Riley's strength, determination and independence was inspiring. Miles was patient, kind and supportive.

Then.. the chemistry. Wow! There was simmering sexual tension from the start of the book and when they finally did get together I was not disappointed!! This was far more spicy than I had anticipated but I am not complaining!!!

The descriptions of Paris were so good I felt like I was there. I loved everything and the fancy dress event scene was so hot!!!

I also liked the way that the author has written the story to address gender inequality in the workplace thought this was covered really sensitively.

Without spoiling anything there was a very satisfying ending and I am excited to see what Elodie comes out with next!

I was fortunate enough to receive and ARC of this book, my first from this author, and I loved it! It had just the perfect amount of “will they, won’t they” tension and buildup, the cutest banter, the sweetest friendship, and all that’s in between. Coupled with past heartbreak and triggering situations plus a shared business makes this for one wild ride and can’t help but endear Miles and Riley even more to the reader. Seeing their trauma and their fears as well as their work through therapy and acceptance is so relatable and refreshing. Plus having Paris and Toronto as settings sure doesn’t hurt! I adored the way Miles is as a friend, a brother, and a lover and I love seeing Riley come out stronger than ever, albeit a bit whirlwind-esque. Definitely a super cute and heartfelt rom com I thoroughly enjoyed and would love to read more of this series and from this author!

this is my first time reading anything by Elodie and it will definitely not be the last time. I loved this so much. SO. DAMN. MUCH. this was just perfect.

tropes:
-work place
-forced proximity
-friends to lovers
-badass CEO woman

this was a little slow burn but when the spice happens, its good. real good. HE RIPS HER CORSET.

Miles and Riley are everything I love in romcom characters. good banter, actual connection, traumatic pasts that they support each other through. chefs kiss all around.

thank you NetGalley for this ARC

Why did this make me cry so much???? Cutie little romcom with a sweet little chef boy and an earnest and badass lady? SHANKS YOU IN THE HEART.

There were so many very real topics addressed in this, mixed in throughout the rest of their lives as they would be in reality. Abusive relationships, infertility, workplace abuse and manipulation, starting over as an adult. And the fact that throughout it all these two were so wholeheartedly all-in for each others best interests and wanted only the best for them, made you love them all the more.

You believe in them both because they believe so much in each other. You adore them both because not only do you see how they feel about each other, you also see how they make each other feel. The dual perspectives really made it for this book, even when we knew things they didn’t and it makes you a little antsy.

Genuine, earnest, funny and also adorable.

Rating: 4,25 stars ⭐️

Tropes:
friends to lovers ❤️
forced proximity ✨
he falls first 🥰
workplace 💼
spicy 🌶️ 

This truly was an amazing story with a strong female character that felt really empowering to read.

The book follows Riley and Miles. They are coworkers at a business firm that Riley’s husband manages but because of the toxic environment, they both quit their job.

Riley got divorced not long after and wants to start her own business. After some time, Miles and Riley got in contact again and became co-partners to the firm.

Miles always wanted to be more then friends with Riley but she needs to fight her own battles alone first..

I loved the characters and the tension that they had and Miles was so sweet to her. 🫶🏻

There are TW for this book (domestic abuse, infertility,…)

Thank you to Netgalley, Elodie Colliard and the publisher for providing me with this copy. All opinions are my own.

All the stars for this book! FROM PARIS, IN LOVE is pure perfection!

The Last Encore (Book 1 of the It's Always Been You series) was my favorite read of 2022. Ever since I read it, I added Elodie Colliard to my auto-buy authors list and I couldn’t wait to see what she had in store for us with Miles and Riley's story (book 2 of the series). I had a feeling it was going to be very good and, well, I was right! I loved absolutely everything about From Paris, in Love:
🥐 Riley (the MFC): she is a force! She has been throuh a loooot, yet she is brave and perseverant. Definitely one of my favorite strong female characters of all times.
🥐 Miles (the MMC): despite his own fears and insecurities, he is so caring and supportive. He is the man of your dreams. He is a rugby player, a supportive coworker, and an amazing friend. He can cook, he has flowers tattooed on his arm, and what about the way he winks?! My oh my, the way he winks! Someone give him the perfect book boyfriend medal, please!
🥐 The romance: Miles and Riley make the perfect team! They uplift each other any chance they get and their story is truly empowering.
🥐 The spice! I am telling you: the mutual pining, the chemistry, and the spice you'll find in this book are on a whole other level.
🥐 The delicate and respectful way in which the author deals with issues such as domestic abuse and infertility.
🥐 Chapter 14: and that is how I die. I can't say anything about it, because I don't wanna spoil it for you. Just trust me when I say it is goooood! Here are some clues: 🏈🎅🏻🗓 (iykyk).
🥐 Avery and Josh's cameo.
🥐 Every single secondary character. I need a book about Amy and Tyler, one about Peter and Myriam, one about Charlee, one about Rachel... ok, I think I made myself clear.
🥐 Basically everything.
From Paris, in Love is definitely one of my favorite reads of the year. I'm gonna preorder my copy as soon as possible and I suggest you do the same...before I buy all available copies!

Thank you to NetGalley and the author for providing me with an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review. I am truly honored.

2.5 rounded up maybe? I got taken in by the cover and the Paris setting. This is very cute and sweet but I just unfortunately did not connect with it at all. The pining was very over the top, it just got silly and eye rolling after a while. It all also felt a little juvenile, I think. A lot of the time I felt like I was reading about horny college kids rather than professionals in their mid 30s who have been through some traumatic things.

It's probably me, I'm feeling super slumpy lately and am having trouble connecting to anything. Many thanks to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for this early copy in exchange for an honest review!

"That very same day, he became my shelter.
This love is not a kind that happens suddenly, and your whole world is turned upside down in the blink of an eye. It's slow love that you don't notice right away. It's the kind of love that takes its time, shaping and revealing itself as trust and affection grow, relishing in all the quiet and tender ways that only true love will ever know. It's every touch, word, and gentle whisper."

Miles Clark and Riley Fletcher are friends. They're business partners. There's no room in their lives for them to be anything else. Except sometimes feelings work their way in and find space in the pieces of themselves they thought were broken.

When Miles and Riley's fresh off the ground PR firm is presented with the opportunity to acquire a lucrative client, they're not prepared for what this big step will mean for them. Two weeks in Paris for the International Wine Festival, an ex that can't let go, and being swept up in the romance of the City of Light.

please check trigger warnings prior to starting this book
______________________

I came into this book for a spectacular playlist *cough* Taylor Swift *cough* and the promise of a golden retriever mmc. I didn't expect to be so intensely invested in Miles and Ry so quickly.

The set up of a workplace, friends to lovers, romance in Paris sets us up for a sweeping romance. There's so much more under the surface of these two. In between grumpy Parisian interactions, a growing company, and lots of baking, we're falling in love with them while they fall in love with each other.

Miles Clark is the shining star of this book for me. He's your classic golden retriever, alpha male, tattooed love interest, but he's so much more. Miles loves Riley so purely that he's willing to set aside his emotions if it means she will be happy and thrive after everything she's been there. He loves her enough to be her safe space and not ask for anything in return. Miles is is Riley's Daylight.

The pacing of this book served their relationship perfectly, but more importantly, Riley's character arc. At her core, Riley is a strong, powerful and independent woman that is building herself back up after the devastation of her previous marriage. Her insecurities and fears dictated the way she navigated her life, and watching her come out of that shell and find a safe space in Miles was everything to me.

Elodie Colliard's ability to build complex characters that have raw, painful, human issues is impressive. Elodie brings real issues to these characters, but handles them with so much care while not shying away from the ugly parts of healing.

The book has so much heart, and all the warm and fuzzies you'd want from a romance set in Paris. From Paris, in Love is a swoon worthy romance with a soft-cinnamon roll-baking-Rugby playing mmc, a badass CEO woman, Parisian adventures, and spice that will leave you blushing. You are bound to fall in love with Miles and Riley's story and all the little bits in between.

- 5 croissants

Thank you Netgalley, Victory Editing, and Elodie Colliard for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

After meeting Miles in Elodie's first book, The Last Encore, I was eagerly (but patiently!) awaiting his book. Have you ever seen a more beautiful cover? 🫶🏻💕

Miles has been in love with Riley since he picked her up off the bathroom floor when their boss (and her then husband) humiliated her at the office. This was just one instance of the emotional abuse he had put her through, and a year after divorcing him, Riley approaches Miles with an offer to set up their own rival PR company. Miles does everything he can to make sure to keep their relationship professional, out of respect for Riley, holding onto his feelings and supporting her in every way she needs. Riley wants to prove herself and is determined to never let a man hold her back or come in the way of her success again.

When work with a huge new client takes them to Paris, their relationship begins to change. In the most idyllic setting, Riley can't help but give in to the want and lust that has been torturing them both for months. But will Riley's fear get in the way of what could be a great love?

Again, Elodie has written a swoony romance with adorable characters and sweet spice, but tackled some really sensitive topics with such care (check trigger warnings) that really gives this book so much heart. Miles is just a big cinnamon roll who would do anything for Riley, and she is on her healing journey, dealing with the trauma of an abusive relationship and trying to take back her life and find her voice. Miles gives her the space she needs and is always there to empower her. Their chemistry is evident from the very start, and it was worth the wait when they finally put aside their fears and stopped fighting their feelings. I loved the romantic Parisian setting and Avery and Josh's cameo (from book 1). This was such a sweet and heartfelt story, and Elodie's acknowledgments at the end nearly broke me. She poured her heart into this book, and it shows.

Thank you to Elodie and @netgalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review. From Paris In Love is out September 26th 💕

Even better the second time around!! I was honoured to help Beta read this book and watching the progress and effort go into this final version was a pure joy!! Miles is such a swoony MMC and Riley, such a badass business babe. Their journey from friends/co-owners to lovers was delightful and emotionally satisfying, not to mention all the fun parts set in Paris! I can't wait for everything to fall in love with this book and these characters like I have :)
Many thanks to NetGalley and especially the author for access to early copies of From Paris, in love in exchange for my honest review!

I am consistently in awe of people who can write books and I love it even more when it's someone I've met through bookstagram! Congratulations Elodie on another success with your second novel - From Paris, in Love - a delight to read from start to finish!

I loved everything! The main characters were great. Miles was such a good book boyfriend! He was such a sexy cinnamon roll! Loved Riley too and how she learned to stand up for herself. Loved the dual POV's and that part of the book took place in Paris! The descriptions of both the setting and food were amazing and it was the perfect backdrop for Riley and Miles to explore their feelings for each other. Loved the friends to lovers, coworkers and workplace romance tropes! Loved that we got snippets from Avery and Josh who were the main characters in the first novel. And I loved the dog, Happy! I'm always a fan when a book includes a cute dog! I also really enjoyed the playlist and that each chapter was named after a popular song. Clever!

While their relationship took a bit to get going, due to the fact that they were hesitant since they worked together, once it picked up it sure got heated! Very open door and super steamy!

This novel also dealt with some sensitive themes and there were a couple things that were triggering for me. I thought they were handled with care and therefore, I didn't lose any enjoyment while reading. But Elodie definitely had me in my feelings a few times! This book features male infertility as well as past relationship domestic abuse.

Overall, this was a great read for me and I look forward to the third installment! Thanks so much to the author, Elodie, for sending me a copy of this to read. Well done!

Miles and Riley share a professional partnership while also being dear friends. Miles has endured his own past relationship challenges, while Riley has gone through a harrowing divorce marred by domestic abuse. Riley holds a special place in Miles' heart, but when they decide to embark on a joint professional venture, Miles understands the importance of maintaining clear boundaries.

A spontaneous business trip to Paris presents unexpected opportunities that could impact both their professional and personal lives in significant ways.

The book delves into sensitive subjects like domestic turmoil and male fertility issues. I found the exploration of these themes to be skillfully executed, and their profound impact on the characters was clearly depicted. Miles is truly remarkable; his unwavering commitment to ensuring Riley's safety and well-being following her traumatic experiences is incredibly touching. Riley is nothing short of extraordinary; she courageously extricated herself from an abusive situation and embarked on a journey to forge a new life. She exemplifies resilience and determination.

The connection between Miles and Riley is palpable, and the intense chemistry between them is undeniable. (The scene from the photo shoot was an absolute delight.) I must also mention that Miles, in addition to his sensitivity and undeniable allure, takes the time to cook for Riley—truly, he couldn't be more perfect.

I thoroughly enjoyed immersing myself in this book and wholeheartedly recommend it.

I extend my gratitude to Netgalley and Victory Editing for providing me with the ARC.

"From Paris, in Love" serves as the second instalment in Elodie Colliard's captivating series, "It’s Always Been You."

Within the narrative, we follow the intertwining lives of Miles and Riley, colleagues and cherished friends. Both bear the weight of past relationship scars—Miles grappling with his own emotional history, while Riley endures the aftermath of a harrowing divorce marred by domestic abuse. Riley, the object of Miles' affection, becomes his anchor as they embark on a professional endeavor, founding a new venture together. A spontaneous journey to Paris, on the cusp of business demands, ushers in not only fresh career prospects but also a deeper connection on a personal level.

Miles emerges as a striking figure—towering, enigmatic, exuding protective masculinity, yet unafraid to navigate his emotional landscape and express himself eloquently. Meanwhile, Riley exudes resilience, her inner strength guiding her through a process of healing and self-discovery.

"From Paris, in Love" breaks this mold by offering readers multifaceted protagonists. Riley and Miles, both acquainted with the trials of difficult relationships, undergo genuine transformation as they rediscover their capacity for love. Colliard masterfully handles delicate themes like infertility and domestic abuse, treating them with the compassion and thoughtfulness they deserve.

This narrative strikes an impeccable equilibrium, melding the allure of lighthearted romance with a tinge of drama and a dash of spiciness. Amidst the romantic escapades, the story confronts significant and authentic subjects.

For those enticed by the allure of an alluring, commanding man whose prowess in French pastry-making rivals his devotion to his canine companion, and a self-assured, stunning woman unapologetically seizing life's opportunities, this narrative is destined to captivate.

Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of From Paris, in Love!

This was such a fun, cute read! I definitely need to go back and read the first one cause I'm missing out. A+++ on the cover art. I wanna buy a copy just so I can have this on my shelf. Miles was a great love interest and I enjoyed his POV chapters. This series is underrated and I'm surprised its flown under my radar till now.

Miles has quit his job as his boss was terrible. Everything else seems to be going well and when the opportunity to go into business with Riley, a hard worker former coworker, it is to good to pass on. The only thing is, Miles has harbored a crush on her forever. She was married, and is now working to reclaim her identity. Riley and Miles are offered a working trip to Paris, and even though there business is just getting off the ground it is to hard to pass up. The only thing is, two weeks spent in the most romantic city in the world does nothing to stop the feelings Miles has for Riley, and he is starting to think she feels the same.

I did find some of the beginning of this book to drag a bit in the set-up for the story. But once we had the set-up there was this sweet story of two people meant for each other. I loved Riley and Miles and thought they were so perfect for each other. At times they both frustrated me, and could be their own worst enemy, but they overcame that for love. Riley and Miles had excellent chemistry and tension which added to their story. The constant will-they or won't they was written to perfection.

Though there is gorgeous scenery (hello we are in France) and wonderful throwbacks to Toronto, it is the character development that is pure perfection here. Elodie Colliard writes characters and their relationships so well. The balance of the serious topics like domestic abuse and infertility, with fun stories and a couple falling in love was so well written.

This was a heartfelt story that really made us look at our own vulnerabilities. Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing Co-op for a copy of this book. All opinions are 100% mine.

Read if you like: slow-burn, coworkers, friends to lovers, he falls first

I adored this book!

It is an adorable friends to lovers romance with a sensitive Mmc who also bakes! What more could you want!

I loved watching the characters relationship evolve over the course of the book as they worked through personal struggles, that I’m sure a lot of people will relate to!

I will definitely be reading more by the author!

listen. i know they always say to never judge a book by its cover… but you’re lying to yourself if the cover of this book did not influence your decision to pick it up. it’s practically screaming “pick me, choose me, love me!”

i’m pretty sure the “listen while reading” track list is what sealed the deal for me that this was going to be a high rating. harry styles? taylor swift?? LIZZY MCALPINES ‘CEILINGS’???!!! signed, sealed, delivered. i’m in.

If you’re a fan of:
- friends to lovers (read CO-CEOS to lovers)
- men with floral tattoos
- HE FALLS FIRST!!!!
- two soulmates finding love in the city of love
- escapism
- évasion (escapism… in french)
Then you need to pick up ‘From Paris, in Love’ ASAP!!

i visited Paris last fall and it was so cool reading about Miles and Riley’s adventures there and actually knowing what the places they visited, looked like.

so so so good!
add it to your TBR and bump it up to the top!!!

‘Neither of us says anything else. We stay like this, in perfect silence, just content to be around one another. And that's a beautiful thing, isn't it? When you can sit with someone and be comfortable, their presence enough to fill the quietness of the room.’

thank you to netgalley and the author for an e-arc of this book!!