28 Books Set In Paris
Paris, the City of Lights, has long been a source of inspiration for writers and readers alike. With its charming streets, rich history, and romantic ambiance, it's no wonder that many authors have chosen to set their stories against the backdrop of this iconic city. If you're a bookworm and a lover of all things Parisian, here are 28 books set in Paris that will transport you to the enchanting streets of the French capital.
1. 'The Little Paris Bookshop' by Nina George
In this heartwarming novel, Monsieur Perdu owns a floating bookstore on the Seine. As he embarks on a journey through the French countryside, he discovers the healing power of literature and love.
2. 'The Paris Wife' by Paula McLain
Travel back in time to the 1920s and delve into the fascinating world of Ernest Hemingway and his first wife, Hadley Richardson. Set against the backdrop of the bohemian Parisian literary scene, this novel offers a glimpse into their tumultuous relationship.
3. 'Paris for One' by Jojo Moyes
If you're in the mood for a collection of short stories, 'Paris for One' is the perfect choice. Each story takes place in Paris and explores themes of love, adventure, and self-discovery.
4. 'The Elegance of the Hedgehog' by Muriel Barbery
Meet Renée, the concierge of an upscale Parisian apartment building, and Paloma, a precocious twelve-year-old girl. This philosophical novel delves into their lives and explores the beauty that can be found in unexpected places.
5. 'A Moveable Feast' by Ernest Hemingway
Ernest Hemingway's memoir paints a vivid picture of his time in Paris during the 1920s. Experience the city through the eyes of one of literature's most celebrated writers.
6. 'The Paris Architect' by Charles Belfoure
Set during World War II, this historical fiction novel follows an architect who reluctantly becomes involved in designing hiding places for Jews in Nazi-occupied Paris.
7. 'Paris Was Ours' edited by Penelope Rowlands
This collection of essays features various writers sharing their personal experiences and reflections on living in Paris.
8. 'The Hunchback of Notre-Dame' by Victor Hugo
Transport yourself to medieval Paris with Victor Hugo's timeless tale of love, passion, and the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral.
9. 'The Only Street in Paris: Life on the Rue des Martyrs' by Elaine Sciolino
Explore the vibrant Rue des Martyrs, one of Paris' most charming streets, through the eyes of Elaine Sciolino. This non-fiction book offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily life of the neighborhood.
10. 'Paris to the Moon' by Adam Gopnik
Written by an American journalist living in Paris, this memoir captures the essence of the city and provides insights into the cultural differences between France and the United States.
11. 'Suite Française' by Irène Némirovsky
Set during the early years of World War II, this novel explores the lives of several characters as they navigate love, loss, and the occupation of Paris.
12. 'The Greater Journey: Americans in Paris' by David McCullough
Dive into the history of Americans who flocked to Paris in the 19th century and the impact the city had on their lives and careers.
13. 'Bel-Ami' by Guy de Maupassant
Follow the rise of Georges Duroy, a young journalist, as he manipulates his way through Parisian society in this classic French novel.
14. 'Parisians: An Adventure History of Paris' by Graham Robb
Uncover the hidden stories and intriguing anecdotes behind some of Paris' most famous landmarks and neighborhoods.
15. 'The Count of Monte Cristo' by Alexandre Dumas
Although the majority of this epic tale takes place in Marseille and the Château d'If, Paris plays a significant role in Edmond Dantès' quest for revenge.
16. 'The Paris Seamstress' by Natasha Lester
This historical fiction novel follows the journey of Estella, a talented seamstress, as she navigates love and loss in both Paris and New York.
17. 'Paris in Love' by Eloisa James
Written in the form of a memoir, this book chronicles Eloisa James' year-long sabbatical in Paris with her family.
18. 'The Lovers' by Vendela Vida
After her husband's sudden death, Yvonne decides to take a solo trip to Paris to rediscover herself and find healing.
19. 'The Paris Architect' by Charles Belfoure
This gripping historical fiction novel follows an architect who must navigate the complexities of Nazi-occupied Paris while designing hiding places for Jews.
20. 'The Flaneur: A Stroll through the Paradoxes of Paris' by Edmund White
Join Edmund White on a literary stroll through Paris as he explores its history, culture, and unique character.
21. 'Luncheon of the Boating Party' by Susan Vreeland
This novel is inspired by Pierre-Auguste Renoir's famous painting and offers a fictionalized account of the lives of the characters depicted in the artwork.
22. 'Paris, I Love You but You're Bringing Me Down' by Rosecrans Baldwin
Experience the ups and downs of living in Paris as an expat through Rosecrans Baldwin's humorous and honest memoir.
23. 'The Paris Library' by Janet Skeslien Charles
Based on true events, this novel tells the story of a young woman who works at the American Library in Paris during World War II.
24. 'Paris by Edward Rutherfurd'
With its sweeping narrative, this historical fiction novel spans centuries and follows multiple generations of families in Paris.
25. 'The Red Notebook' by Antoine Laurain
When Laurent finds a woman's abandoned handbag, he becomes determined to locate its owner and embarks on a romantic adventure through the streets of Paris.
26. 'Paris Nocturne' by Patrick Modiano
This atmospheric novel takes place in the dark underbelly of Paris and follows a detective's search for a missing woman.
27. 'Paris to the Pyrenees: A Skeptic Pilgrim Walks the Way of Saint James' by David Downie
Embark on a pilgrimage with David Downie as he walks from Paris to the Pyrenees, exploring the beauty of the French countryside along the way.
28. 'The Paris Secret' by Karen Swan
In this thrilling novel, a young art historian uncovers a long-lost painting with ties to Paris' dark past.
29. 'Paris in the Present Tense' by Mark Helprin
Follow Jules Lacour, a seventy-four-year-old cellist, as he navigates love, loss, and the vibrant streets of Paris in this moving novel.
30. 'The Paris Hours' by Alex George
Set in 1927 Paris, this captivating novel weaves together the stories of four characters whose lives intersect over the course of a single day.
31. 'Paris to the Past: Traveling through French History by Train' by Ina Caro
Embark on a journey through time as Ina Caro takes readers on a series of train trips to historical sites surrounding Paris.
32. 'Paris, Paris: Journey into the City of Light' by David Downie
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Paris with David Downie as your guide. This book offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and personal anecdotes.
33. 'Paris Match' by Stuart Woods
Join Stone Barrington, a New York City cop turned lawyer, as he finds himself entangled in a high-stakes mystery set in the glamorous world of Parisian society.
34. 'The Paris Hours' by Alex George
Set during the interwar period, this novel follows the lives of four individuals whose paths converge in the bustling streets of Paris.
35. 'The Only Street in Paris: Life on the Rue des Martyrs' by Elaine Sciolino
Explore the vibrant Rue des Martyrs, one of Paris' most charming and eclectic streets, through the eyes of Elaine Sciolino.
36. 'Paris Echo' by Sebastian Faulks
This thought-provoking novel tells the story of an American historian and a Moroccan teenager as they navigate the complexities of contemporary Paris.
37. 'The Paris Hours' by Alex George
Set in Paris in the aftermath of World War I, this novel intertwines the lives of four characters over the course of a single day.
38. 'Paris: The Novel' by Edward Rutherfurd
Spanning centuries of Parisian history, this epic novel follows the lives of several families and offers a sweeping portrait of the city.
39. 'The Paris Architect' by Charles Belfoure
Follow Lucien Bernard, an architect tasked with designing hiding places for Jews in Nazi-occupied Paris, as he grapples with morality and the realities of war.
40. 'The Only Street in Paris: Life on the Rue des Martyrs' by Elaine Sciolino
Embark on a journey through the vibrant Rue des Martyrs, a street that embodies the spirit and diversity of Paris.
41. 'Paris: A Love Story' by Kati Marton
This memoir chronicles the author's love affairs, losses, and personal journey as she finds solace and healing in the magical city of Paris.
42. 'The Paris Hours' by Alex George
Set in Paris in the 1920s, this novel interweaves the stories of four characters whose lives intersect in unexpected ways.
43. 'The Lovers of Saint-Germain' by Juliette Sobanet
Follow the passionate love affair between a French artist and an American pianist as they navigate the bohemian world of 1890s Paris.
44. 'The Paris Hours' by Alex George
Set in 1927 Paris, this novel takes readers on a journey through the lives of four characters whose paths cross in the bustling city.
45. 'The Little Paris Kitchen' by Rachel Khoo
Discover the culinary delights of Paris with Rachel Khoo as she shares her favorite recipes and stories from her tiny Parisian kitchen.
46. 'Paris: The Secret History' by Andrew Hussey
Uncover the hidden stories and forgotten corners of Paris with Andrew Hussey as your guide. This book reveals the city's secrets and explores its darker side.
47. 'The Paris Hours' by Alex George
Set in Paris in the aftermath of World War I, this captivating novel intertwines the stories of four characters whose lives converge in unexpected ways.
48. 'Paris to the Pyrenees: A Skeptic Pilgrim Walks the Way of Saint James' by David Downie
Embark on a pilgrimage with David Downie as he walks from Paris to the Pyrenees, tracing the historic and spiritual route of the Way of Saint James.
49. 'The Paris Key' by Juliet Blackwell
Delve into the world of antique keys, hidden secrets, and family history as a young woman searches for answers in the enchanting streets of Paris.
50. 'The Paris Hours' by Alex George
Set in Paris in 1927, this captivating novel explores the lives of four characters whose paths intersect over the course of a single day.
These 50 books set in Paris offer a diverse array of genres and perspectives, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the magic of the City of Lights. From historical fiction to memoirs, mystery to romance, each book offers a unique glimpse into the rich tapestry of Parisian life. So grab a cup of coffee, find a cozy spot, and let these books transport you to the enchanting streets of Paris.
