I really loved the storyline to this book, but felt the execution fell flat in some cases. For those reading it as a cozy mystery they will probably like it more than those who came for the magic. The one point that drove me nuts though was that the main character was only 29 years old. She uses TikTok, but kept portraying herself as a washed up spinster who wasted her life. When I first started reading I thought she must be around her early 40s, but when I found out her age it bugged me the rest of the book.

Lovely feel good story about a young woman who goes to work in a French bakery. She thought it was in Paris, but instead it was in the small historic town of Compiegne. There are secrets, history, romance and a bit of the mystical involved.

This story was a pleasant mixture of history, romance, finding oneself, and a little bit of whimsical fantasy. I personally just felt that the writing was a little choppy and under developed. I felt that many chapters lacked a smooth transition to the next and ended rather abruptly. The characters were a bit one-dimensional. Oh, and why are we acting like a 29 year old is soon to be an old spinster?

This was an enjoyable read, though I don't think it was entirely what I was looking for. The premise intrigued me, and the setting had a cozy, atmospheric charm that I appreciated. However, I struggled to fully connect with the characters, and the pacing felt uneven—some sections dragged while others moved too quickly without enough development. I also found certain plot elements a bit predictable, which lessened the impact for me. While I can see others enjoying it for its charm and warmth, it ultimately wasn’t quite my thing.

Edie moved from Ireland to work at a bakery she thought was in Paris. It turns out the bakery isn't exactly in Paris and the bakery is anything but typical.

Like The Lost Bookshop and The Story Collector, The Mysterious Bakery on Rue De Paris contains a sprinkle of mystery and magic. I thoroughly enjoyed Evie’s first two books but just couldn't get into this one. I did finish it though, and it made me crave a cozy bakery and a delicious cup of hot chocolate 🧁

Thank you NetGalley and HarperCollins360 for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.

I think I'd have enjoyed this one more, if the historical part was played up and fleshed out a bit more. That part was really interesting, but took so long into the story before it really came to life.

Evie leaves Dublin for a job in a bakery she expected was in Paris - but she didn't read the advertisement correctly, and it's not actually in Paris but a small, quaint town. When she arrives, she finds it's not what she expected and it takes her a while to adjust. There is a bit of magic sprinkled throughout the story - that brings in the historical part. It's an entertaining book.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author and publisher for a temporary, digital ARC in return for my review.

have no words to describe this book. It will probably be one of the best books of 2025. It’s simply magical. It hooks you from the start and you can’t put it down until you’re forced because you’ve reached the last page.

Edith is quite funny, smart, and determined. Hugo is smart and a bear. They’re both dreamers in their own way. I just love the way their relationship develops and how intertwined it becomes with Madame Moreau’s bakery and the story behind it. The supporting characters are the best. I loved Manu, he’s such a sweetheart and Nicole, is a friend any girl should have. Last but not least, is the touch of magic in the story. My heart felt for Pierre and what he did taking care of Genevieve and her mom and how he kept to his promise even in spirit. That was amazing.

Seriously, add this book to your auto buy. You won’t want to miss it!

Thank you NetGalley for the eARC!

The Mysterious Bakery on Rue de Paris is a charming and cozy read. While the plot may be somewhat predictable, the setting and bit of mystery make it a nice little escape. Also, some of the supporting characters could have been more developed. 3.75⭐ rounded up

Enjoyable story centered around saving a bakery in a quaint French town. Some history, found family, and a little bit of mystery. Without this being set in France, I would not have enjoyed as much. A quick, easy read to escape to France!

While the book started off very well and it did caught my attention. There were some moments where I felt as if it was a language and grammar barrier so it made it kind of hard to stay reading the book. I did unfortunately soft DNF this book. I didn’t get the feeling of wanting to return to the book and continue on reading. I honestly think I just read it at a bad time so I’m willing to give this book another chance at a different time because I enjoyed how the FMC was on a journey of finding herself and being on her own.

This was a beautifully written heartwarming story. I felt like I could totally escape in this. The only thing I did not enjoy was just that there was so much French language. As someone who does not understand French, I found it distracting. I will read more by this author.

I definitely didn't want this lovely gem to end! One of the best stories I've read for this year!
Lots of twists and turns and yes even a bit of romance. Most enjoyable was the bit of magic that was added.
I really enjoyed the Paris setting for this novel. The way the author described this beautiful book, I felt like I was there!
I couldn't put the book down it was so good!
Told from the protagonists point of view is what I enjoyed even more. I felt that I could connect to her so much better.
I hated to see this story end. This is one of those stories that will stay with you for a long time to come.
5 stars for the excellent writing and the entertainment and for keeping me engaged all the way through.
I highly recommend.
May I say that the cover makes me want to pop right into the picture Mary Poppins style? It's that inviting.
My thanks for a copy of this book I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

I first discovered Evie Woods in late July of 2024 and she has immediately become an auto-buy author for me. This book was EXACTLY what I needed to soothe my soul coming off the busyness of the holidays. It’s that perfect blend of magical realism, historical fiction, and sweet romance. I was so moved by the plucky determination of the FMC, Edith, and the back story of Madame Moreau was heartbreakingly beautiful. Even our MMC Hugo was on a journey of self-discovery. Thank you to NetGalley and to Harper 360 for the opportunity to review this advanced copy.

See my full review at http://michelleardillo.com/2025/01/11/book-review-the-mysterious-bakery-on-rue-de-paris-by-evie-woods-a-k-a-evie-gaughan/

Edie travels from Ireland to Paris after she accepts a job at a bakery. All doesn’t go according to plan, and Edie isn’t quite sure what she’s getting herself into. Follow her adventure as she uncovers a mystery and people who just might change her life.

Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy. All opinions are my own.

If you're looking for a book that will sweep you off your feet, make you feel all the feels, and leave you with a sense of wonder, 'The Mysterious Bakery on Rue de Paris' by Evie Woods is an absolute must-read. This enchanting novel has everything you could possibly want: romance, mystery, history, a touch of magic, and even a ghost. In fact, it is hands down the best book I have read this year—so much so that it felt as if it was written just for me.

For fans of feel-good romance (think Abby Jimenez's heartwarming style), this book delivers a sweet and tender love story that will melt your heart without ever crossing into anything inappropriate. It's the perfect blend of light and love, full of moments that will make you smile, sigh, and possibly even get a little teary-eyed.

But this book isn't just about romance. It masterfully weaves in elements of historical fiction, with a fascinating glimpse into World War II that adds depth and richness to the story without overshadowing the main plot. The historical timeline, though brief, helps to unravel the mystery of a magical bakery, its ghostly inhabitant, and the misunderstood owner who is struggling to hold it all together. Trust me, don't let the mention of WWII scare you off—this subplot enhances the story and makes the magical elements feel all the more meaningful.

The ghost and mystery add an intriguing layer to the narrative, keeping you hooked and wanting to know more as the secrets of the bakery slowly unfold. There's just enough magic to spark your imagination, but it’s never too fantastical. It’s the kind of magic that fits seamlessly into the story, pushing the plot forward without ever feeling out of place.

What makes this book even more special is Evie Woods' ability to balance all these elements in a way that feels effortless. You’ll find yourself completely immersed in the world she creates, with every page offering new layers of wonder and excitement.

I can already tell that this is a book I’ll return to again and again. If you love a story that’s heartwarming, mysterious, and just a little bit magical, "The Mysterious Bakery on Rue de Paris" is the perfect choice. I truly believe everyone should read this book at least once—and, like me, you’ll likely find yourself revisiting it time and time again. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

I really loved this story with its magic, historical elements, and familial drama. It was a very heart warming read that transported me to Paris alongside the characters!

With it's charming characters and impeccable sense of place, readers will surely fall hard for Woods most recent offering.

We follow the grieving Edith Lane as she is called to move from her Irish home, impulsively taking a job in the bustling and romantic patisseries of Paris. Fate has other plans, and much to her dismay, our lost heroine finds herself in a town and bakery immensely different than her brain had conjured. As Edith navigates her unlikely new life, she is met with heartwarming characters and unsettling mysteries!

I truly adored this story. It's sweet and light with just enough depth to make it meaningful. It's got some heart-wrenching historical elements that drive the mystery but the characters and ultimate outcome balance the hard human truths nicely.

This will be a sweet little treat for those looking for a heartwarming tale with some depth.

Loved the story... connects a bit of magic, family drama, delicious baked goods and beautiful scenery. I've come to expect this in a Gaughan / Woods novel, and she doesn't disappoint here. Would have loved to learn more about why the vanilla worked (won't reveal the secrets here!) but I am totally good just going with it. Solid characters. Lovely setting. I'm all caught up on the author's books now.

Having put her own plans on hold to care for her dying mother, Edith (Edie) is seeking a fresh start in Paris by accepting a management position in a bakery. Much to her dismay, she discovers she misunderstood the location. In fact, the bakery is located on the Rue de Paris in Compiegne, a village about one hour north of her dream destination. Edie is determined to stay despite the aloof owner, the shabby apartment, and the mysterious activity in the basement that produces abundant, delicious breads and pastries. As the story unfolds, Edie begins to heal her grief over the loss of her mother, gaining some clarity about what she genuinely wants in life.

Some of the most interesting aspects of the novel involve the history of Compiegne. especially its role in World Wars I and II. This thread was unexpected and provided richness and depth to the storyline.

Overall, this is a heart-warming book that embraces the magical realism genre that the author is known for. I found it enjoyable, entertaining, and informative.

My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This review is being posted immediately to my GoodReads account and will be posted on Amazon upon publication.