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Paris for One and Other Stories
Nell is twenty-six and has never been to Paris. She's never even been on a romantic weekend away--to anywhere--before. Traveling abroad isn't really her thing. But when Nell's boyfriend fails to show up for their mini-vacation, she has the opportunity to prove everyone--including herself--wrong. Alone in Paris, Nell finds a version of herself she never knew existed: independent and intrepid. Could this turn out to be the most adventurous weekend of her life? Funny, charming, and irresistible, Paris for One is quintessential Jojo Moyes--as are the other stories that round out the collection.
274 pages, Hardcover
First published October 18, 2016
3,642 people are currently reading
46.1k people want to read
About the author
Jojo Moyes
116 books65.4k followersJojo Moyes is a British novelist.
Moyes studied at Royal Holloway, University of London. She won a bursary financed by The Independent newspaper to study journalism at City University and subsequently worked for The Independent for 10 years. In 2001 she became a full time novelist.
Moyes' novel Foreign Fruit won the Romantic Novelists' Association (RNA) Romantic Novel of the Year in 2004.
She is married to journalist Charles Arthur and has three children.
Moyes studied at Royal Holloway, University of London. She won a bursary financed by The Independent newspaper to study journalism at City University and subsequently worked for The Independent for 10 years. In 2001 she became a full time novelist.
Moyes' novel Foreign Fruit won the Romantic Novelists' Association (RNA) Romantic Novel of the Year in 2004.
She is married to journalist Charles Arthur and has three children.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,530 reviews
August 16, 2020
Paris for One is collection of two novellas and 9 short stories.
My favorite story (or I should say novella) was Honeymoon in Paris. It is a standalone novella, but is also connected to Moyes' full lenght novel The Girl You Left Behind. 80 pages long, the story follows two couples placed in different time, separated by 80 years, who's stories together make a whole. Even though I really liked it, I think I would appreciate it even more if I have read the novel.
Paris for One is second best in this collection.
It is fun and easy to read, but I think it would be better if the story was set in 90's, because characters were really bad when it comes to communication. If there were no mobile phones, the story would make more sense.
Other two stories that I really enjoyed were Between the Tweets and Crocodile Shoes.
As for other pieces, I think they were put into this collection just for sake of having enough stories for the whole bind up.
Some were forgetable (Love in the Afternoon), some were there so Jojo Moyes' fans would have something new to read, and one was so.... silly and ridiculous (I don't mean it in a good way). The story I'm talking about is Holdups. I really didn't like that one.
I don't want to sound rude here, but I'll say this anyway: some stories sounded like someone's practice writing, so I couldn't help but wonder if they were written before Moyes found her voice, before she became a successful writer.
To be fair, when it all comes down together, I think three stars rating is realistic.
I would recommend this collection to fans of Jojo Moyes.
If you haven't read anything by her before, and you come upon this book, I would still recommend four stories I mentioned as my favorites. It would be a shame not to read them, if you already have a chance to do so.
Read this and more reviews on my blog: https://bookdustmagic.com
My favorite story (or I should say novella) was Honeymoon in Paris. It is a standalone novella, but is also connected to Moyes' full lenght novel The Girl You Left Behind. 80 pages long, the story follows two couples placed in different time, separated by 80 years, who's stories together make a whole. Even though I really liked it, I think I would appreciate it even more if I have read the novel.
Paris for One is second best in this collection.
It is fun and easy to read, but I think it would be better if the story was set in 90's, because characters were really bad when it comes to communication. If there were no mobile phones, the story would make more sense.
Other two stories that I really enjoyed were Between the Tweets and Crocodile Shoes.
As for other pieces, I think they were put into this collection just for sake of having enough stories for the whole bind up.
Some were forgetable (Love in the Afternoon), some were there so Jojo Moyes' fans would have something new to read, and one was so.... silly and ridiculous (I don't mean it in a good way). The story I'm talking about is Holdups. I really didn't like that one.
I don't want to sound rude here, but I'll say this anyway: some stories sounded like someone's practice writing, so I couldn't help but wonder if they were written before Moyes found her voice, before she became a successful writer.
To be fair, when it all comes down together, I think three stars rating is realistic.
I would recommend this collection to fans of Jojo Moyes.
If you haven't read anything by her before, and you come upon this book, I would still recommend four stories I mentioned as my favorites. It would be a shame not to read them, if you already have a chance to do so.
Read this and more reviews on my blog: https://bookdustmagic.com
December 3, 2016
This book has nine stories about troubled relationships from the perspectives of the women in each. The first, Paris for One, is the length of a novella while the others are all short stories. I liked some more than others but really enjoyed them collectively. The narration performances were outstanding and contributed greatly to my overall reading experience. Below are short summaries of each with my reactions.
Paris for One
Nell and her boyfriend Pete are off for a weekend in Paris, or so she thinks. Pete turns out to be a no-show and Nell decides to stay and experience the city of lights on her own.
I actually loved this meandering and delightful story. Nell is such a straight arrow who steps outside of herself and turns a potentially crummy set of circumstances into a wonderful adventure. I enjoyed this immensely.
Between the Tweets
This story about a PR nightmare has just the right touch of irony. Short but it hit the right notes.
Love in the Afternoon
A woman's husband surprises her with a getaway vacation but it can't conjure up a bygone romance. This was so realistic it almost hurt but I loved the ending.
A Bird in the Hand
A married woman encounters her former secret lover at a party and both have regrets they didn't even know they had. While this was not one of my favorites, it still was pretty interesting.
Crocodile Shoes
A weary working mother and neglected wife has a pair of fantastic shoes transform her life overnight. This is one of my favorites, full of humor with a perfect ending.
Holdups
A woman working at a jewelry store has an encounter with one of the robbers of the place while it is in progress. This was my least favorite as it was a bit far fetched. Still, it was interesting.
Last Year's Coat
A married, working mother needs a new coat but the one she really wants is out of reach as they're struggling to make ends meet. It has a lovely and pertinent ending.
Thirteen Days with John C.
A neglected married woman finds a cell phone and gets caught up in a texting relationship with a twist. This was touching and a bit sad though I got hooked through the end.
The Christmas List
A woman in a cold, dispassionate marriage is struggling to find the items on a Christmas list created by her husband for his mother. A fortunate ride in a taxi made this a really special story. Loved it.
(I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review)
Paris for One
Nell and her boyfriend Pete are off for a weekend in Paris, or so she thinks. Pete turns out to be a no-show and Nell decides to stay and experience the city of lights on her own.
I actually loved this meandering and delightful story. Nell is such a straight arrow who steps outside of herself and turns a potentially crummy set of circumstances into a wonderful adventure. I enjoyed this immensely.
Between the Tweets
This story about a PR nightmare has just the right touch of irony. Short but it hit the right notes.
Love in the Afternoon
A woman's husband surprises her with a getaway vacation but it can't conjure up a bygone romance. This was so realistic it almost hurt but I loved the ending.
A Bird in the Hand
A married woman encounters her former secret lover at a party and both have regrets they didn't even know they had. While this was not one of my favorites, it still was pretty interesting.
Crocodile Shoes
A weary working mother and neglected wife has a pair of fantastic shoes transform her life overnight. This is one of my favorites, full of humor with a perfect ending.
Holdups
A woman working at a jewelry store has an encounter with one of the robbers of the place while it is in progress. This was my least favorite as it was a bit far fetched. Still, it was interesting.
Last Year's Coat
A married, working mother needs a new coat but the one she really wants is out of reach as they're struggling to make ends meet. It has a lovely and pertinent ending.
Thirteen Days with John C.
A neglected married woman finds a cell phone and gets caught up in a texting relationship with a twist. This was touching and a bit sad though I got hooked through the end.
The Christmas List
A woman in a cold, dispassionate marriage is struggling to find the items on a Christmas list created by her husband for his mother. A fortunate ride in a taxi made this a really special story. Loved it.
(I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review)
November 18, 2016
Paris for One and Other Stories is a collection of short stories written by Jojo Moyes. In my opinion, most all of the stories are entertaining and engaging, although some were more enjoyable than others for me personally. Fans of women's fiction will surely be able to connect with a few if not most of the pieces. It's a great collection. Check it out!
Paris for One and Other Stories includes the following titles. The ratings and mini reviews are based on my personal enjoyment and reflect my opinion only.
Paris for One:
★★★★☆
This novella is takes up over half the book and felt like a thorough open and close story. I enjoyed it and clearly felt the Paris setting and the heroine's emotions. This was a good one.
Between the Tweets:
★★★★☆
A bit of mystery with a surprise plot twist... and very surprise ending. I probably should have seen it all coming but I really didn't. Enjoyable!
Love in the Afternoon:
★★★★★
Hands down, my favorite out of the bunch. We take each other for granted much too easily and our contributions become a mundane expectation instead of a thankful appreciation. Loved it!
A Bird in the Hand:
★★★★☆
The grass is always greener on the other side. Yeah right. Glad to see a change of heart.
Crocodile Shoes:
★★★★★
A fabulous pair of shoes can change your life. Loved this one!
Holdups:
★★★★☆
So Ms. Moyes has a borderline dark side! This one surprised me in a good way!
Last Year’s Coat:
★☆☆☆☆
I listened to this one twice and still can't tell you what it was about.
Thirteen Days with John C:
★★☆☆☆
Busted! Unfortunately, I didn't find this one all that enjoyable.
The Christmas List:
★★★☆☆
So many factors can make the holidays stressful instead of magical. After all is said and done, it's easy to be left wondering what's the point of all the hassle. Moral of the story: Make every day of your life count and spend your holidays with people who care ♥
Rating Average: 3.55 Stars
Paris for One and Other Stories includes the following titles. The ratings and mini reviews are based on my personal enjoyment and reflect my opinion only.
Paris for One:
★★★★☆
This novella is takes up over half the book and felt like a thorough open and close story. I enjoyed it and clearly felt the Paris setting and the heroine's emotions. This was a good one.
Between the Tweets:
★★★★☆
A bit of mystery with a surprise plot twist... and very surprise ending. I probably should have seen it all coming but I really didn't. Enjoyable!
Love in the Afternoon:
★★★★★
Hands down, my favorite out of the bunch. We take each other for granted much too easily and our contributions become a mundane expectation instead of a thankful appreciation. Loved it!
A Bird in the Hand:
★★★★☆
The grass is always greener on the other side. Yeah right. Glad to see a change of heart.
Crocodile Shoes:
★★★★★
A fabulous pair of shoes can change your life. Loved this one!
Holdups:
★★★★☆
So Ms. Moyes has a borderline dark side! This one surprised me in a good way!
Last Year’s Coat:
★☆☆☆☆
I listened to this one twice and still can't tell you what it was about.
Thirteen Days with John C:
★★☆☆☆
Busted! Unfortunately, I didn't find this one all that enjoyable.
The Christmas List:
★★★☆☆
So many factors can make the holidays stressful instead of magical. After all is said and done, it's easy to be left wondering what's the point of all the hassle. Moral of the story: Make every day of your life count and spend your holidays with people who care ♥
Rating Average: 3.55 Stars
August 21, 2021
París para una y otras historias es una colección de historias de Jojo Moyes. A lo largo de este último año he leído la mayoría de sus novelas y cada novela es única y siempre me cuesta calificarlas. Los personajes principales casi siempre son interesantes y entrañables, los elementos románticos son tiernos y cargados emocionalmente y las mujeres estan bien construidas; cada una de las mujeres de las historias eran memorables, interesantes y únicas.
París para uno 5 estrellas
Es el primer libro de esta colección y ocupa la mayor parte del contenido del libro. Este es romántico con grandes descripciones de París y contiene una gran heroína. La sensación verdadera del poder de la mujer funciona a través de este libro.
De tuit en tuit 3.5 estrellas
Es realmente bueno. Está lleno de misterio. Con algunos grandes giros y un final sorprendente. Se trata de un evento de relaciones públicas que va horriblemente mal. Esto asegura un puñetazo poderoso para un cuento.
Amor de tarde 3.5 estrellas
Simplemente me encantó el final. Esta es una historia encantadora que nos dice a todos que se deben tomar las cosas que nuestras parejas hacen por sentado. Y ser agradecidos todos los días que se tienen.
Pájaro en mano 3 estrellas
Una mujer casada se reúne con su amante secreto estando juntos en una fiesta y ambos se dan cuenta de que tienen sentimientos uno por el otro todavía y también tienen arrepentimientos.
Realmente fue algo forzado este relato, una historia algo oscura, no fue precisamente de mis historias favoritas...
Zapatos de Cocodrilo 3.5 estrellas
Este es realmente una historia que te muestra estar agradecido todos los días por la gente maravillosa que tenemos en nuestras vidas y ser feliz con las cosas maravillosas que nos han dado.
Atracos 3 estrellas
Este es uno de los relatos más raros y oscuros en este libro. Lo que nos hace ver un lado diferente de Jojo, que pocas veces hemos visto antes.
Luna de miel en París 2 estrellas
En este libro debía haber un relato que nos muestra dos historias separadas por muchos años pero con un nexo en común bastante importante, como ya Jojo nos tiene acostumbrados por sus ultimas publicaciones, pues este libro no es la excepción, una historia que podría ser una precuela de La Chica que dejaste atrás... lo curioso es que este fue el relato que menos me gusto, pero ACLARO que el libro de La chica que dejaste atrás es maravilloso...
El abrigo del año pasado 4 estrellas
Aunque tiene un final muy bonito, es un poco confuso, ya que no logre entender la moraleja o el mensaje que se estaba dando. Estoy algo confusa sobre lo que se trata.
Trece días con John C 2.5 estrellas
Tampoco es uno de mis favoritos de este libro. Esta es la historia de una mujer casada descuidada que encuentra un teléfono móvil abandonado y comienza una relación de sexting con un extraño al azar, el final es algo crudo pero feliz (?.
Margot 4.5 estrellas
Una historia tal vez poco realista, pero con el mensaje de que siempre habrá alguien que sea tu ángel guardián, que no todo esta perdido y que aunque creas que estas sola, no lo estas.
La Lista de Navidad 5 estrellas
Es la historia sobre una mujer que se ha vuelto fría, que está casada. Sin embargo, un paseo casual en taxi hace que la mujer vea las cosas bajo una luz diferente. Esta es la historia que te recuerda hacer que cada día de tu vida cuente.
Mientras Jojo es una narradora con talento y su delicado toque con sus historias siempre está presente. Ésta es una colección muy dulce de historias. Todas tienen un mensaje muy dulce. Como no tomar a la gente que usted ama para sentado, pasar el tiempo con los que tu amas, hacer que cada día cuente, hacer las cosas que te hacen feliz, ir hacia tus metas y ser una mujer independiente y fuerte.
Dicho esto, quisiera que estas historias cortas fueran novelas separadas. Hubo momentos en los que sentí que los personajes y las historias necesitaban más espacio para desarrollarse. Realmente disfruté de esta colección y como todos los libros de Jojo Moyes siempre te hacen reflexionar.
En conclusión la colección era una lectura maravillosa y amé los romances ingeniosos y los personajes realistas. Si estás buscando una novela impulsada por el personajes llenos de corazón y romance, esta es la colección para ti!
París para uno 5 estrellas
Es el primer libro de esta colección y ocupa la mayor parte del contenido del libro. Este es romántico con grandes descripciones de París y contiene una gran heroína. La sensación verdadera del poder de la mujer funciona a través de este libro.
De tuit en tuit 3.5 estrellas
Es realmente bueno. Está lleno de misterio. Con algunos grandes giros y un final sorprendente. Se trata de un evento de relaciones públicas que va horriblemente mal. Esto asegura un puñetazo poderoso para un cuento.
Amor de tarde 3.5 estrellas
Simplemente me encantó el final. Esta es una historia encantadora que nos dice a todos que se deben tomar las cosas que nuestras parejas hacen por sentado. Y ser agradecidos todos los días que se tienen.
Pájaro en mano 3 estrellas
Una mujer casada se reúne con su amante secreto estando juntos en una fiesta y ambos se dan cuenta de que tienen sentimientos uno por el otro todavía y también tienen arrepentimientos.
Realmente fue algo forzado este relato, una historia algo oscura, no fue precisamente de mis historias favoritas...
Zapatos de Cocodrilo 3.5 estrellas
Este es realmente una historia que te muestra estar agradecido todos los días por la gente maravillosa que tenemos en nuestras vidas y ser feliz con las cosas maravillosas que nos han dado.
Atracos 3 estrellas
Este es uno de los relatos más raros y oscuros en este libro. Lo que nos hace ver un lado diferente de Jojo, que pocas veces hemos visto antes.
Luna de miel en París 2 estrellas
En este libro debía haber un relato que nos muestra dos historias separadas por muchos años pero con un nexo en común bastante importante, como ya Jojo nos tiene acostumbrados por sus ultimas publicaciones, pues este libro no es la excepción, una historia que podría ser una precuela de La Chica que dejaste atrás... lo curioso es que este fue el relato que menos me gusto, pero ACLARO que el libro de La chica que dejaste atrás es maravilloso...
El abrigo del año pasado 4 estrellas
Aunque tiene un final muy bonito, es un poco confuso, ya que no logre entender la moraleja o el mensaje que se estaba dando. Estoy algo confusa sobre lo que se trata.
Trece días con John C 2.5 estrellas
Tampoco es uno de mis favoritos de este libro. Esta es la historia de una mujer casada descuidada que encuentra un teléfono móvil abandonado y comienza una relación de sexting con un extraño al azar, el final es algo crudo pero feliz (?.
Margot 4.5 estrellas
Una historia tal vez poco realista, pero con el mensaje de que siempre habrá alguien que sea tu ángel guardián, que no todo esta perdido y que aunque creas que estas sola, no lo estas.
La Lista de Navidad 5 estrellas
Es la historia sobre una mujer que se ha vuelto fría, que está casada. Sin embargo, un paseo casual en taxi hace que la mujer vea las cosas bajo una luz diferente. Esta es la historia que te recuerda hacer que cada día de tu vida cuente.
Mientras Jojo es una narradora con talento y su delicado toque con sus historias siempre está presente. Ésta es una colección muy dulce de historias. Todas tienen un mensaje muy dulce. Como no tomar a la gente que usted ama para sentado, pasar el tiempo con los que tu amas, hacer que cada día cuente, hacer las cosas que te hacen feliz, ir hacia tus metas y ser una mujer independiente y fuerte.
Dicho esto, quisiera que estas historias cortas fueran novelas separadas. Hubo momentos en los que sentí que los personajes y las historias necesitaban más espacio para desarrollarse. Realmente disfruté de esta colección y como todos los libros de Jojo Moyes siempre te hacen reflexionar.
En conclusión la colección era una lectura maravillosa y amé los romances ingeniosos y los personajes realistas. Si estás buscando una novela impulsada por el personajes llenos de corazón y romance, esta es la colección para ti!
February 23, 2018
I originally read Paris for One about 2 years ago. I rated it 4 stars and I thought it was a good short story. I was impressed by the fact that it focused more on a connection between two people rather than force some kind of insta-love. I didn't enjoy it as much this time, I don't know if that is to do with the fact that my tastes have changed or because I wasn't reading it for the first time. I think it was the former and I do think my tastes have changed slightly, but I rated it 3.5 stars this time (which isn't that much of a change to the rating but my feelings towards it have definitely changed). So it is a cute story overall but kind of lacking. I found most of the other stories to be lacking too. I really enjoyed Holdups (I gave it a 4.5). That story was very entertaining and different, it was also a bit far-fetched but I indulged it. A Bird in the Hand was the second best, getting 4 stars from me but the rest were all very underwhelming. That is why this book amounted to 3 stars. I hate to be mean but it feels like a money grab to me.
* I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
----------------------
"And yet something-perhaps an English predisposition not to appear rude, not to make a fuss, even if it does end up in your untimely murder-propels her forward."
"She is so good at saying it now, as if it happened to someone else entirely. Her voice even, light, as if it were the most insubstantial of facts. As if it hadn't smashed their existence into a million pieces, a falling meteor, radioactive for years afterward, scorching the earth."
* I received a copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
----------------------
"And yet something-perhaps an English predisposition not to appear rude, not to make a fuss, even if it does end up in your untimely murder-propels her forward."
"She is so good at saying it now, as if it happened to someone else entirely. Her voice even, light, as if it were the most insubstantial of facts. As if it hadn't smashed their existence into a million pieces, a falling meteor, radioactive for years afterward, scorching the earth."
April 10, 2017
Last summer, I attempted to read my first Jojo Moyes' book, Windfallen, and quit after about 60 pages in because of the writing style. I decided to give her writing another go with Paris for One and Other Stories, but, sadly, I felt much the same about these short stories. I enjoyed Paris for One fairly well, but the other stories were somewhat irritating and forgettable. I was hoping I'd like this more, and I still plan to read Me Before You and After You, but this was a miss for me.
February 10, 2017
Jojo Moyes is known for her engaging books that look at romantic relationships with insight and humor. This is a collection of nine contemporary stories. After reading weeks of depressing political commentary in the newspapers lately, it was fun to escape to this light, entertaining book. It was just what I needed!
December 26, 2020
A lighthearted, romantic collection of novellas and short stories about love (and its falling outs) by Jojo Moyes. I breezed through it in just two nights!
Not the best book, but I definitely recommend this if you're looking for a simple, uplifting read. I think this was pretty effective in getting me out of my reading slump. My favorite story from this book was Honeymoon in Paris, and Paris for One was a close second!
Not the best book, but I definitely recommend this if you're looking for a simple, uplifting read. I think this was pretty effective in getting me out of my reading slump. My favorite story from this book was Honeymoon in Paris, and Paris for One was a close second!
May 12, 2017
4☆ Great collection of short stories
This is my first book by Jojo it was a fun read with some great stories.
Each short story is very different.
However they feature romance, some humour, breakups, secret love affairs, a little mystery and lots of different emotions.
They give a portrayal of life and the problems women face within marriage and relationships. Not every story is written with a happy ending.
Paris for one is the main story and it literally is what it says.... Nell embarks on a trip with her boyfriend... only he doesn't turn up...leaving poor Nell alone.... She shows so much strength when she decides to go to Paris alone, who knows what exciting encounters Paris has to offer!
There are 8 other short stories included is this delightful collection.
Some very good, others are just ok.
But that's ok as not all stories are to everyone's taste.
For this reason I chose not to list the ones I particularly liked as I feel it's only fair you read them with a fresh look.
Overall a delightful and different collection.
I received this book from the Publisher in exchange for a honest and fair review via Netgalley.
This is my first book by Jojo it was a fun read with some great stories.
Each short story is very different.
However they feature romance, some humour, breakups, secret love affairs, a little mystery and lots of different emotions.
They give a portrayal of life and the problems women face within marriage and relationships. Not every story is written with a happy ending.
Paris for one is the main story and it literally is what it says.... Nell embarks on a trip with her boyfriend... only he doesn't turn up...leaving poor Nell alone.... She shows so much strength when she decides to go to Paris alone, who knows what exciting encounters Paris has to offer!
There are 8 other short stories included is this delightful collection.
Some very good, others are just ok.
But that's ok as not all stories are to everyone's taste.
For this reason I chose not to list the ones I particularly liked as I feel it's only fair you read them with a fresh look.
Overall a delightful and different collection.
I received this book from the Publisher in exchange for a honest and fair review via Netgalley.
August 1, 2021
Live in the moment
Paris for One and Other Stories is a collection of eleven short-stories. Some of these stories are a little too short and only a couple of them are on the longer side. Every story is about a married couple except for Paris for One. Honestly, this collection was a huge let down as I only liked five stories. No wonder it took me a long time to finish reading this.
1. Paris for one - 3 stars
Nell is going to Paris for a weekend away with her boyfriend, Pete. She is waiting at the train station for Pete when Pete tells her to go to Paris alone as he's stuck at work and will try to get the later train. It started off really slow but when Nell and Fabien meet, it picked up but then it got a little slow again. It was quite predictable but I didn't mind that. I didn't really like Nell but I liked Fabien and I absolutely loved the receptionist, Marianne. I liked the ending but I didn't love it. I am left with so many questions. Would she move to Paris? Would this be a long distance thing? Is there another option? Still overall, I quite liked this.
2. Between the tweets - 3.5 stars
A sort of retired sportsman who is married and has kids is being accused of having an affair. The accuser is an anonymous person on Twitter so the sportsman goes to a PR agency to have his name cleared and what the PR agency discovers surprised me but that ending was predictable. An extremely short story but I really liked it.
3. Love in the afternoon - 1 star
A long time married couple now with kids have no romance left in their lives until the husband surprises the wife with a trip to go away for a night and after some hiccups they re-learn the romance. I did not like this story at all. May be it will resonate with people who are married a long time but this wasn't for me.
4. A bird in the hand - 0 stars
Beth is going to a party with her husband, Simon and she isn't thrilled as she's late and is wearing the wrong shoes for the function. When she comes face to face with her secret ex-lover, she's reminded of old times and thinks what could have been if she had ended up together with the said secret lover.
I didn't really understand the point of the story. Yeah yeah she choses her husband and everything is hunky dory but is it? Why did they have two different locations to meet? Did someone know and sent them to different locations deliberately? What was up with Simon? What was up with Krista? What was up with Lisa? Arghh I have too many questions and zero answers. Hence, zero stars for the story.
5. Crocodile shoes - 2.75 stars
This story is about a busy working mum who is trying her best to have it all and the best happens for her when her shoes are replaced with someone else's shoes and those shoes transform her business deals and her life.
I liked it in the beginning and I understand the point of magical shoes but it just wasn't convincing enough and that ending was really unsatisfactory that she returns the shoes and she has a bonus to buy her own unsuitable shoes? Eh!
6. Holdups - 2 stars
Alice works at a jewellery shop and she witnesses a robbery by three men. She falls for one of the men whilst the robbery is taking place. It could have been a good story if the ending was actually different.
7. Honeymoon in Paris - 3.75 stars
This story takes place in two different time eras - one is in the year 2002 when Liv and David are on their honeymoon in Paris the second is in the year 1912 Édouard and Sophie are newly weds and they live in Paris. These stories are connected and I liked how these played out. This is also one of the stories I quite liked in this collection.
8. Last year's coat - 0 stars
Evie is married and she has two teenage daughters. She needs a new coat and incidentally she likes this one she's seen at a shop walking to work but can't afford it and then something happens and her father-in-law buys the coat for her. I honestly have no idea what was the point of this story or what it was about other than Evie wanting a coat and getting envious of her co-workers when they buy new things.
9. Thirteen days with John C - 3 stars
Miranda finds a phone by the sidewalk and she starts exchanging texts with a stranger. She's been married a long time and she feels that she's lost herself somewhere along the way. These texts make her feel alive and she finds herself again or does she? I actually enjoyed this story a lot more than I thought I would. That twist just before the end was good.
10. Margot - 2 stars
Em's husband left her and she's flying back to England to be with her family for Christmas. She meets a mysterious, eccentric woman who gives Em a new perspective on life. It was meh.
11. The Christmas list - 4 stars
Chrissy is running around London shopping for things on her Christmas list and when she gets into a cab and starts to share her miserable life with the driver, he encourages her to do something spontaneous and she decides to leave for Barcelona to see her friend and leave her miserable married life in London. I loved this story. I think it's my top favorite in this collection.
Overall 2 stars
Paris for One and Other Stories is a collection of eleven short-stories. Some of these stories are a little too short and only a couple of them are on the longer side. Every story is about a married couple except for Paris for One. Honestly, this collection was a huge let down as I only liked five stories. No wonder it took me a long time to finish reading this.
1. Paris for one - 3 stars
Nell is going to Paris for a weekend away with her boyfriend, Pete. She is waiting at the train station for Pete when Pete tells her to go to Paris alone as he's stuck at work and will try to get the later train. It started off really slow but when Nell and Fabien meet, it picked up but then it got a little slow again. It was quite predictable but I didn't mind that. I didn't really like Nell but I liked Fabien and I absolutely loved the receptionist, Marianne. I liked the ending but I didn't love it. I am left with so many questions. Would she move to Paris? Would this be a long distance thing? Is there another option? Still overall, I quite liked this.
2. Between the tweets - 3.5 stars
A sort of retired sportsman who is married and has kids is being accused of having an affair. The accuser is an anonymous person on Twitter so the sportsman goes to a PR agency to have his name cleared and what the PR agency discovers surprised me but that ending was predictable. An extremely short story but I really liked it.
3. Love in the afternoon - 1 star
A long time married couple now with kids have no romance left in their lives until the husband surprises the wife with a trip to go away for a night and after some hiccups they re-learn the romance. I did not like this story at all. May be it will resonate with people who are married a long time but this wasn't for me.
4. A bird in the hand - 0 stars
Beth is going to a party with her husband, Simon and she isn't thrilled as she's late and is wearing the wrong shoes for the function. When she comes face to face with her secret ex-lover, she's reminded of old times and thinks what could have been if she had ended up together with the said secret lover.
I didn't really understand the point of the story. Yeah yeah she choses her husband and everything is hunky dory but is it? Why did they have two different locations to meet? Did someone know and sent them to different locations deliberately? What was up with Simon? What was up with Krista? What was up with Lisa? Arghh I have too many questions and zero answers. Hence, zero stars for the story.
5. Crocodile shoes - 2.75 stars
This story is about a busy working mum who is trying her best to have it all and the best happens for her when her shoes are replaced with someone else's shoes and those shoes transform her business deals and her life.
I liked it in the beginning and I understand the point of magical shoes but it just wasn't convincing enough and that ending was really unsatisfactory that she returns the shoes and she has a bonus to buy her own unsuitable shoes? Eh!
6. Holdups - 2 stars
Alice works at a jewellery shop and she witnesses a robbery by three men. She falls for one of the men whilst the robbery is taking place. It could have been a good story if the ending was actually different.
7. Honeymoon in Paris - 3.75 stars
This story takes place in two different time eras - one is in the year 2002 when Liv and David are on their honeymoon in Paris the second is in the year 1912 Édouard and Sophie are newly weds and they live in Paris. These stories are connected and I liked how these played out. This is also one of the stories I quite liked in this collection.
8. Last year's coat - 0 stars
Evie is married and she has two teenage daughters. She needs a new coat and incidentally she likes this one she's seen at a shop walking to work but can't afford it and then something happens and her father-in-law buys the coat for her. I honestly have no idea what was the point of this story or what it was about other than Evie wanting a coat and getting envious of her co-workers when they buy new things.
9. Thirteen days with John C - 3 stars
Miranda finds a phone by the sidewalk and she starts exchanging texts with a stranger. She's been married a long time and she feels that she's lost herself somewhere along the way. These texts make her feel alive and she finds herself again or does she? I actually enjoyed this story a lot more than I thought I would. That twist just before the end was good.
10. Margot - 2 stars
Em's husband left her and she's flying back to England to be with her family for Christmas. She meets a mysterious, eccentric woman who gives Em a new perspective on life. It was meh.
11. The Christmas list - 4 stars
Chrissy is running around London shopping for things on her Christmas list and when she gets into a cab and starts to share her miserable life with the driver, he encourages her to do something spontaneous and she decides to leave for Barcelona to see her friend and leave her miserable married life in London. I loved this story. I think it's my top favorite in this collection.
Overall 2 stars
March 24, 2021
Meh, this is standard chick lit.
The first story was quite good and it was much longer than the little stories that followed and if I am honest its the only story I remember. The rest are very forgettable.
I needed something light to read for a few days and this filled the gap but its not a book I will actively promote.
The first story was quite good and it was much longer than the little stories that followed and if I am honest its the only story I remember. The rest are very forgettable.
I needed something light to read for a few days and this filled the gap but its not a book I will actively promote.
October 8, 2017
Paris for One and Other Stories was a charming and touching collection of short stories involving troubled relationships. Each story had such a strong and dynamic voice. I felt like each narrator was so distinct and well developed for having such short stories. I loved the way the author wrote the stories and how each story was unique and memorable. I knew I loved JoJo's writing style, but this book just reminded me of how much I truly loved it! I liked some of the stories more than others, but I really enjoyed this collection overall.
Paris for One
This story was actually my favorite of the collection and it was the longest! I loved the two main characters in this story, especially Nell. I saw so much of myself in Nell and I was rooting for her to have the trip of her life. I was invested in this story from the first page and shipped the two main characters SO HARD. I LOVE THEM TOGETHER. The Paris setting added such an enchanting and wonderful element to the story. I seriously adored this story and the adventure the characters went on. I WISH THIS WAS A FULL-LENGTH NOVEL. NOW NEED TO GO TO PARIS AND DISCOVER MYSELF.
Between the Tweets
This was an extremely short story, but I still found it very interesting and addictive! It proved how lies can really hurt your reputation. This might not have been one of my favorite stories, but I still enjoyed it.
Love in the Afternoon
I found this short story to be a very realistic look into romance in marriages. This story and the characters tugged at my heartstrings and I loved the way it ended.
A Bird in the Hand
This story involved ex-lovers running into each other and discussing some of the regrets they had in regards to their relationship. I found this story to be very well written, but it was not one of my favorite stories in this book.
Crocodile Shoes
This story took the old saying "one pair of shoes can change your life" to heart! When a woman finds a pair of killer heels, it turned her not so fabulous life upside down! I thought this story was hilarious and oh so charming!
Holdups
While working at a jewelry store, a woman had an interesting encounter with a robber. Even if the events seemed a bit ridiculous, the character interactions were well written! The ending put a smile on my face, even if it seemed crazy.
Last Year's Coat
This was such a realistic and emotional story. I felt like the author touched on such a relevant and relatable topic in regards to struggling to make ends meet. The ending made me feel ALL THE FEELS! ADORABLE!
Thirteen Days with John C.
This story was such an emotional roller coaster! Even though I had a feeling things wouldn't end up well, I was invested in the story and the characters.
The Christmas List
AHHH! This story was so heartwarming and precious. The character interactions in this story were precious and made for such a memorable novella.
Overall, Paris for One and Other Stories was a fun, charming, and easy read! I would recommend this book to everyone.
4 / 5 Fangs
*This ebook was given to me in exchange for an honest review. *
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
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Paris for One
This story was actually my favorite of the collection and it was the longest! I loved the two main characters in this story, especially Nell. I saw so much of myself in Nell and I was rooting for her to have the trip of her life. I was invested in this story from the first page and shipped the two main characters SO HARD. I LOVE THEM TOGETHER. The Paris setting added such an enchanting and wonderful element to the story. I seriously adored this story and the adventure the characters went on. I WISH THIS WAS A FULL-LENGTH NOVEL. NOW NEED TO GO TO PARIS AND DISCOVER MYSELF.
Between the Tweets
This was an extremely short story, but I still found it very interesting and addictive! It proved how lies can really hurt your reputation. This might not have been one of my favorite stories, but I still enjoyed it.
Love in the Afternoon
I found this short story to be a very realistic look into romance in marriages. This story and the characters tugged at my heartstrings and I loved the way it ended.
A Bird in the Hand
This story involved ex-lovers running into each other and discussing some of the regrets they had in regards to their relationship. I found this story to be very well written, but it was not one of my favorite stories in this book.
Crocodile Shoes
This story took the old saying "one pair of shoes can change your life" to heart! When a woman finds a pair of killer heels, it turned her not so fabulous life upside down! I thought this story was hilarious and oh so charming!
Holdups
While working at a jewelry store, a woman had an interesting encounter with a robber. Even if the events seemed a bit ridiculous, the character interactions were well written! The ending put a smile on my face, even if it seemed crazy.
Last Year's Coat
This was such a realistic and emotional story. I felt like the author touched on such a relevant and relatable topic in regards to struggling to make ends meet. The ending made me feel ALL THE FEELS! ADORABLE!
Thirteen Days with John C.
This story was such an emotional roller coaster! Even though I had a feeling things wouldn't end up well, I was invested in the story and the characters.
The Christmas List
AHHH! This story was so heartwarming and precious. The character interactions in this story were precious and made for such a memorable novella.
Overall, Paris for One and Other Stories was a fun, charming, and easy read! I would recommend this book to everyone.
4 / 5 Fangs
*This ebook was given to me in exchange for an honest review. *
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It
August 10, 2017
RELECTURA
La historia de Nell y Fabien es muy linda!!!
La historia de Nell y Fabien es muy linda!!!
July 28, 2022
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐ ½
Genre: Romance + Contemporary + Short Stories
This is a collection of short stories. Paris for One is the longest story in the collection, it is around 150 pages which is more than half of the book. The remaining stories are very short. The stories have different themes. They are all contemporary. Paris for One is about Nell who is stood up by her boyfriend when they were supposed to travel together to Paris and have a small vacation. Nell takes the chance and goes alone. There she meets someone else and you know what happens next.
The main story is nice but nothing is new about it. I must’ve watched such a story in movies many times before. So I was not surprised by its outcome and resolution. Jojo Moyes’ writing is really good. Her storytelling style is light and fun, it is easy to read and does not have much tension. However, I think I enjoyed the short stories more than the main one. Between the Tweets was my favorite story in the collection. It had all the ingredients that I usually enjoy and keep my interest. All the stories are light in their nature and I think they will be suitable if you are in the mood to read something contemporary and pleasant.
Overall, reading Paris for One and Other Stories was entertaining, engaging, and simple. I assume that this is the author’s style in all her other books. I have books by her on my TBR that I’d like to read soon. Hopefully, they are at the same level if not better.
Genre: Romance + Contemporary + Short Stories
This is a collection of short stories. Paris for One is the longest story in the collection, it is around 150 pages which is more than half of the book. The remaining stories are very short. The stories have different themes. They are all contemporary. Paris for One is about Nell who is stood up by her boyfriend when they were supposed to travel together to Paris and have a small vacation. Nell takes the chance and goes alone. There she meets someone else and you know what happens next.
The main story is nice but nothing is new about it. I must’ve watched such a story in movies many times before. So I was not surprised by its outcome and resolution. Jojo Moyes’ writing is really good. Her storytelling style is light and fun, it is easy to read and does not have much tension. However, I think I enjoyed the short stories more than the main one. Between the Tweets was my favorite story in the collection. It had all the ingredients that I usually enjoy and keep my interest. All the stories are light in their nature and I think they will be suitable if you are in the mood to read something contemporary and pleasant.
Overall, reading Paris for One and Other Stories was entertaining, engaging, and simple. I assume that this is the author’s style in all her other books. I have books by her on my TBR that I’d like to read soon. Hopefully, they are at the same level if not better.
January 31, 2024
31.01.24
Обичам да чета книгите на Джоджо Мойс, не ми омръзват и не ме разочароват. Припомняйки си тези разкази, установих , че един от тях е в основата на последната й книга. Има промяна и е доразвила историята. Очаквам с нетърпение с какво ще ни изненада следващия път.
24.06.17
Никога не съм си представяла , че ще се смея с глас на книга на Джоджо Мойс.
Брилянтна !
Точно от това , от което имах нужда.
Малки човешки неща събрани и написани с огромно чувство за хумор и любов.
Започва с новелата "Сама в Париж", която е наивна и сладка . Непрекъснато се чудех и проверявах дали чета вярната книга и авторка или нещо на Никола Баро.
Преминава в малко по-драматична история , която ни връща към героите от "Момичето , което бях", най-силната й книга , според мен.
И накрая идва черешката на тортата- разказите.
Всеки един от тях, по-добър от предишния.
О, наистина се чувствам блажено.
Това е моята авторка- умна, интелигентна, едновременно тъжна и весела, забелязваща.
Всичко това е изписано на лицето й.
Наистина НЕВЕРОЯТНА !
01.10.17- Понеже четейки за първи път някоя нова книга , бързам много да стигна до край. Та имах нужда да прочета отново на спокойствие разказите в това издание. И пак ми харесаха много.
Обичам да чета книгите на Джоджо Мойс, не ми омръзват и не ме разочароват. Припомняйки си тези разкази, установих , че един от тях е в основата на последната й книга. Има промяна и е доразвила историята. Очаквам с нетърпение с какво ще ни изненада следващия път.
24.06.17
Никога не съм си представяла , че ще се смея с глас на книга на Джоджо Мойс.
Брилянтна !
Точно от това , от което имах нужда.
Малки човешки неща събрани и написани с огромно чувство за хумор и любов.
Започва с новелата "Сама в Париж", която е наивна и сладка . Непрекъснато се чудех и проверявах дали чета вярната книга и авторка или нещо на Никола Баро.
Преминава в малко по-драматична история , която ни връща към героите от "Момичето , което бях", най-силната й книга , според мен.
И накрая идва черешката на тортата- разказите.
Всеки един от тях, по-добър от предишния.
О, наистина се чувствам блажено.
Това е моята авторка- умна, интелигентна, едновременно тъжна и весела, забелязваща.
Всичко това е изписано на лицето й.
Наистина НЕВЕРОЯТНА !
01.10.17- Понеже четейки за първи път някоя нова книга , бързам много да стигна до край. Та имах нужда да прочета отново на спокойствие разказите в това издание. И пак ми харесаха много.
October 22, 2017
'Paris for One and Other Stories,' is a collection of eleven romantic shorts with JoJo Moyes the headline author and writer of the main title. Paris for One offers easy, light romantic reading and is my first outing with this author. I was highly anticipating that I would enjoy the writing style but unfortunately, for my personal taste, it was lacking the power in the prose to engage my attention or convincingly draw me into the story. I found myself disengaged from the characters and felt some elements were a little too convenient, perhaps a touch contrived rather than organically drawn from the narrative and sadly this affected my overall enjoyment of the piece.
'A Bird in the Hand,' is the stand out story for me and engaged my attention more than the others, however even this had a slight abrupt ending. I confess that I stopped reading after the seventh story, I may go back to the remaining romances when I need a romantic short over a lunch hour but at this stage I was finding the shorts to be of a similar ilk and not really working for my reading tastes.
NOTE: My rating is based on reading the first 7 of 11 short stories.
Advance copy provided, via NetGalley, for my honest review thoughts*
July 16, 2017
This is the sign of authorial success: Being allowed to publish a bunch of stories you wrote during puberty and having it sell well.
Under-edited and under-whelming, Paris for One & Other Stories definitely strikes me as the sort of slap-dash work authors often get away with publishing after becoming a success. The sort of stories that make you wonder if they were written B.S. (Before Success) or A.T.W.D (After the Wells Ran Dry). Either way, the definitely feel like a collection published solely out of a need to put something new on the shelves. A "between times" book to fill the space between big hits.
While there's not a lot of creativity in any of these stories and none of Jojo Moyes brilliant signature characters, if you already love Jojo Moyes, this book won't change your mind about her. If you've never read Jojo Moyes before, DON'T READ THIS BOOK FIRST.
The main story, Paris for One, reminds me of a B chick flick. It pulls out all the usual stops: a woman afraid of excitement who finds herself alone in a strange city, a waiter/aspiring writer who is afraid to dream, an oblivious and selfish ex-boyfriend, Paris at night... Nothing in it will make you see things in a new way or surprise you, but if you're look for a very quick, reliably romantic read, it'll do the trick.
Of the "Other Stories," the only one that held any twist and made me laugh was Between Tweets. The rest are pretty much shorter versions of the same caliber writing as Paris for One.
My recommendation: Read it for something to read (i.e. to pass the hours), but don't read it looking for anything special. I definitely won't be reading it again. Now Me Before You, on the other hand... that's one to come back to.
Under-edited and under-whelming, Paris for One & Other Stories definitely strikes me as the sort of slap-dash work authors often get away with publishing after becoming a success. The sort of stories that make you wonder if they were written B.S. (Before Success) or A.T.W.D (After the Wells Ran Dry). Either way, the definitely feel like a collection published solely out of a need to put something new on the shelves. A "between times" book to fill the space between big hits.
While there's not a lot of creativity in any of these stories and none of Jojo Moyes brilliant signature characters, if you already love Jojo Moyes, this book won't change your mind about her. If you've never read Jojo Moyes before, DON'T READ THIS BOOK FIRST.
The main story, Paris for One, reminds me of a B chick flick. It pulls out all the usual stops: a woman afraid of excitement who finds herself alone in a strange city, a waiter/aspiring writer who is afraid to dream, an oblivious and selfish ex-boyfriend, Paris at night... Nothing in it will make you see things in a new way or surprise you, but if you're look for a very quick, reliably romantic read, it'll do the trick.
Of the "Other Stories," the only one that held any twist and made me laugh was Between Tweets. The rest are pretty much shorter versions of the same caliber writing as Paris for One.
My recommendation: Read it for something to read (i.e. to pass the hours), but don't read it looking for anything special. I definitely won't be reading it again. Now Me Before You, on the other hand... that's one to come back to.
August 7, 2020
A collection of 2 novellas and 9 short stories about free spirited women tapping into their confidence. Jojo Moyes looks into their relationships with discernment and gives us a peak into their seemingly perfect lives.
Between The Tweets, hands down one of the best stories in the collection, is an ironic story of a woman who drummed up a controversy around a celeb’s name by anonymously tweeting about his alleged affair. She did this just so that he is relevant again. The extent to which some women can go to create drama and make life happening for themselves and their loved ones, is not uncommon. What’s unusual is how her plan backfired. I’m sure that The Christmas List will make most readers wonder if the stress we go through during festive seasons is really worth it. In this story, a lady in a loveless marriage frazzled by the specifications in her Christmas list has a moment of realization when she understands that it wouldn't be a tragedy at all if her marriage came to an end and goes off to Barcelona to love herself. In Thirteen Days With John C, a heart tugging story, a neglected woman finds an abandoned cell phone and responds to sexts that came from a certain John C. She assumed the role of the owner of the phone with ease and developed a glint in her eyes and a bounce in her step as she anticipated texts that would excite her. What happened on the 13th day when they finally decided to meet, felt like a sting in the tail.
Other stories that are worth a mention are Holdups (Despite how unrealistic it is, this one was an engaging read), Crocodile Shoes (That took the quote “A new pair of shoes can change your life.” to a whole new level) and Margot (a reflection of the true spirit of Christmas)
Between The Tweets, hands down one of the best stories in the collection, is an ironic story of a woman who drummed up a controversy around a celeb’s name by anonymously tweeting about his alleged affair. She did this just so that he is relevant again. The extent to which some women can go to create drama and make life happening for themselves and their loved ones, is not uncommon. What’s unusual is how her plan backfired. I’m sure that The Christmas List will make most readers wonder if the stress we go through during festive seasons is really worth it. In this story, a lady in a loveless marriage frazzled by the specifications in her Christmas list has a moment of realization when she understands that it wouldn't be a tragedy at all if her marriage came to an end and goes off to Barcelona to love herself. In Thirteen Days With John C, a heart tugging story, a neglected woman finds an abandoned cell phone and responds to sexts that came from a certain John C. She assumed the role of the owner of the phone with ease and developed a glint in her eyes and a bounce in her step as she anticipated texts that would excite her. What happened on the 13th day when they finally decided to meet, felt like a sting in the tail.
Other stories that are worth a mention are Holdups (Despite how unrealistic it is, this one was an engaging read), Crocodile Shoes (That took the quote “A new pair of shoes can change your life.” to a whole new level) and Margot (a reflection of the true spirit of Christmas)
September 18, 2016
Easy, fun read.. Makes me want to drop everything and go to Paris!
May 2, 2020
an actual conversation which took place when i was around 10% done with the book:
my sister: what are you reading?
me: oh, this? it's from the author of me before you, about a woman exploring paris on her own because her boyfriend ditched her.
my sister: oh i know how the rest goes. she meets a frenchman, also freshly ditched, and they fall in love.
me: no way, this plot is way overused and jojo moyes would never write something like it.
how wrong i was :)
paris for one and other stories isn't super bad, but there's nothing special about it - i feel like i've read the same story hundreds of times before.
my sister: what are you reading?
me: oh, this? it's from the author of me before you, about a woman exploring paris on her own because her boyfriend ditched her.
my sister: oh i know how the rest goes. she meets a frenchman, also freshly ditched, and they fall in love.
me: no way, this plot is way overused and jojo moyes would never write something like it.
how wrong i was :)
paris for one and other stories isn't super bad, but there's nothing special about it - i feel like i've read the same story hundreds of times before.
December 8, 2016
I don't usually like short stories, but this collection was very enjoyable.
It was satisfying to read the stories during my commute to work. The book ended appropriately with a short Christmas story. Total chick lit, but good!
It was satisfying to read the stories during my commute to work. The book ended appropriately with a short Christmas story. Total chick lit, but good!
January 22, 2019
5 estrellas para “París para uno”, que me ha dejado encantada y con unas ganas inmensas de ir a París.
Le bajo una estrella por los demás relatos, los que no me parecieron del todo geniales.
Pero para mí siempre es un gusto leer a esta autora!! 😍
Le bajo una estrella por los demás relatos, los que no me parecieron del todo geniales.
Pero para mí siempre es un gusto leer a esta autora!! 😍
August 4, 2017
Reseña completa en: http://elcaosliterario.blogspot.com.e...
El primer relato y más extenso, cuenta una historia bastante original y dinámica en la que no dejan de suceder cosas y atrapa desde el primer capítulo. Quizá su corta extensión sea el principal motivo de que todo avance a un buen ritmo. En este relato se mezcla el romanticismo con algo de humor en ciertos momentos que hacen de él una mezcla bastante interesante.
El segundo gran relato (después de varios cortos) nos muestra dos historias separadas por muchos años pero con un nexo en común bastante importante. En ella podemos ver cómo se afronta una situación similar en dos épocas tan diferentes. Quizá a los que habéis leído "La chica que dejaste atrás" os suenen de algo los personajes. Y ahí lo dejo.
Respecto a los demás relatos, dada su corta extensión, no tienen la misma magia que los dos largos aunque son bastante entretenidos y alguno de ellos incluso divertido por su trama o por el final inesperado. Todos los relatos guardan una pequeña lección sobre el amor, tratando a lo largo de sus páginas muchas de las diferentes etapas que se afrontan, incluidos también, el desamor o la falta de ilusión en una pareja.
Es un libro que recomiendo sobre todo en épocas en las que no os apetece leer una novela como tal y preferís leer pequeñas historias de una manera más rápida. No es el mejor de Jojo Moyes ni mucho menos, pero en parte creo que se debe a que un libro formado por relatos no va a conquistar de la misma manera que lo haría una gran novela.
En Resumen: perfecto para una tarde en la que os apetezca leer algo rápido y que no requiera demasiada atención. Eso sí, a pesar de ser relatos cortos y no lucirse de la misma manera, la pluma de Jojo es impecable como en todas sus obras.
El primer relato y más extenso, cuenta una historia bastante original y dinámica en la que no dejan de suceder cosas y atrapa desde el primer capítulo. Quizá su corta extensión sea el principal motivo de que todo avance a un buen ritmo. En este relato se mezcla el romanticismo con algo de humor en ciertos momentos que hacen de él una mezcla bastante interesante.
El segundo gran relato (después de varios cortos) nos muestra dos historias separadas por muchos años pero con un nexo en común bastante importante. En ella podemos ver cómo se afronta una situación similar en dos épocas tan diferentes. Quizá a los que habéis leído "La chica que dejaste atrás" os suenen de algo los personajes. Y ahí lo dejo.
Respecto a los demás relatos, dada su corta extensión, no tienen la misma magia que los dos largos aunque son bastante entretenidos y alguno de ellos incluso divertido por su trama o por el final inesperado. Todos los relatos guardan una pequeña lección sobre el amor, tratando a lo largo de sus páginas muchas de las diferentes etapas que se afrontan, incluidos también, el desamor o la falta de ilusión en una pareja.
Es un libro que recomiendo sobre todo en épocas en las que no os apetece leer una novela como tal y preferís leer pequeñas historias de una manera más rápida. No es el mejor de Jojo Moyes ni mucho menos, pero en parte creo que se debe a que un libro formado por relatos no va a conquistar de la misma manera que lo haría una gran novela.
En Resumen: perfecto para una tarde en la que os apetezca leer algo rápido y que no requiera demasiada atención. Eso sí, a pesar de ser relatos cortos y no lucirse de la misma manera, la pluma de Jojo es impecable como en todas sus obras.
May 6, 2017
This is my first book by this author. This book starts with the novella Paris for One - I think of it as a novella as most short stories don't have chapters.
I really liked Paris for One. The writing is so open and engaging that I read this novella of 100+ pages in one sitting. Great female characters and not all the men were worthless. Very enjoyable.
The other stories in the collection are darling. Some remind me of stories by O. Henry. The women are very real. The stories are lighthearted with an edge of steel to them.
I really liked Paris for One. The writing is so open and engaging that I read this novella of 100+ pages in one sitting. Great female characters and not all the men were worthless. Very enjoyable.
The other stories in the collection are darling. Some remind me of stories by O. Henry. The women are very real. The stories are lighthearted with an edge of steel to them.
January 1, 2021
Paris for one is the main story in this collection and introduces us to Nell- who never "does" any of the things- she overthinks, plans, and uses excel to make all her major decisions. She books a trip to Paris with her boyfriend- except he's a complete wanker and doesn't go. I really enjoyed this story and the others are much shorter but equally charming.
I'm not a huge fan of short story collections, but this was delightful.
I'm not a huge fan of short story collections, but this was delightful.
November 10, 2019
The title story (Paris for One) was really great (I had to rate that seperately too) but unfortunately the others were not my type of stories, so that's why the low rating.
Ratings for every story:
Paris for One ★★★★★
Between the Tweets ★★
Love in the Afternoon ★★
A Bird in the Hand ★
Crocodile Shoes ★★
Holdups ★★
Last Year's Coat ★★
Thirteen Days with John C. ★★
The Christmas List ★
Ratings for every story:
Paris for One ★★★★★
Between the Tweets ★★
Love in the Afternoon ★★
A Bird in the Hand ★
Crocodile Shoes ★★
Holdups ★★
Last Year's Coat ★★
Thirteen Days with John C. ★★
The Christmas List ★
July 27, 2016
Lindo relato corto, me hubiera gustado saber un poco más porque la historia que cuenta, si bien, es bastante típica, esta linda!
January 7, 2018
This was my first encounter with JoJo Moyes writing and I have to confess that I was somewhat reluctant after reading all the angsty and teary-eyed reviews of Me Before You. I'm a chicken about really heartwrenching stories so I held back. But then I spotted this short story collection and thought it might be safe enough.
Well, I made a good call I think, but not because Paris For One was devoid of angst. No, this was a fantastic collection that gave me an idea of the writing gift the author displays, her talent for going deep in an economy of pages, and gave me so many lovely story gems all in one volume. I might just be brave (read greedy for more, there) enough to pick up more of her books.
So... Paris For One and Other Stories.
There were nine stories total including Paris For One which is a novella and the others as short stories. Each showed a different facet of love and life all from each heroine's perspective only: a young woman ditched by her boyfriend to do Paris alone, rekindling the romance for a middle-aged couple, a new chance at the road not taken (aka former lover vs husband), a woman finding her mojo when she finds some killer shoes, shop girl flirts with robber during hold up, finding contentment in a material world, an infidelity accusation backfires, a two-week pretend life for a bored woman, and a woman who sees her life clearly while on a hunt to fulfill her Christmas list.
They were all good in their own ways and I could see the appeal hitting me differently if I read these in different moods because they hit all facets of womens' lives and feelings. I enjoyed the most, Paris For One as a girl who never took a step without making a list learns to take chances now and then and finds her confidence, but also thought Hold Up was a hoot, Crocodile Shoes made me root hard for the heroine and Last Year's Coat resonated with me the most, I think, because this woman struggled hard with every day issues.
And, I think that was the appeal of each story. All these gals were every day women that I recognized in myself or others I know. They were familiar, but yet they had new experiences. This book brought out my emotions, but also left me musing afterward.
All in all, I was well satisfied with this collection of shorts and definitely want to try her novel-length books. These are definitely for those who enjoy women's fiction and chic lit.
My thanks to Penguin-Random House for the opportunity to read this book in exchange of an honest opinion.
Well, I made a good call I think, but not because Paris For One was devoid of angst. No, this was a fantastic collection that gave me an idea of the writing gift the author displays, her talent for going deep in an economy of pages, and gave me so many lovely story gems all in one volume. I might just be brave (read greedy for more, there) enough to pick up more of her books.
So... Paris For One and Other Stories.
There were nine stories total including Paris For One which is a novella and the others as short stories. Each showed a different facet of love and life all from each heroine's perspective only: a young woman ditched by her boyfriend to do Paris alone, rekindling the romance for a middle-aged couple, a new chance at the road not taken (aka former lover vs husband), a woman finding her mojo when she finds some killer shoes, shop girl flirts with robber during hold up, finding contentment in a material world, an infidelity accusation backfires, a two-week pretend life for a bored woman, and a woman who sees her life clearly while on a hunt to fulfill her Christmas list.
They were all good in their own ways and I could see the appeal hitting me differently if I read these in different moods because they hit all facets of womens' lives and feelings. I enjoyed the most, Paris For One as a girl who never took a step without making a list learns to take chances now and then and finds her confidence, but also thought Hold Up was a hoot, Crocodile Shoes made me root hard for the heroine and Last Year's Coat resonated with me the most, I think, because this woman struggled hard with every day issues.
And, I think that was the appeal of each story. All these gals were every day women that I recognized in myself or others I know. They were familiar, but yet they had new experiences. This book brought out my emotions, but also left me musing afterward.
All in all, I was well satisfied with this collection of shorts and definitely want to try her novel-length books. These are definitely for those who enjoy women's fiction and chic lit.
My thanks to Penguin-Random House for the opportunity to read this book in exchange of an honest opinion.
December 21, 2017
ARC from the publisher.
3.5 stars
If I was rating this book just on the short story Paris for One, it would easily be four stars. While I really enjoyed Nell’s story, I did find the synopsis to be a bit misleading. Nell doesn’t take the plunge and go on her mini-vacation alone. She heads to Paris assuming her boyfriend will be arriving shortly thereafter. He doesn’t show up, and through a series of events, she finds herself staying in Paris (as the title suggests,) alone. I found it really easy to identify with Nell’s character and the kind of insecurities that seem to plague a lot of us. I think my favorite part of the story (aside from the super sweet romance,) was how when we get out of our own way and away from everything familiar and actually take a chance, we can surprise ourselves. And when we can learn to see ourselves through someone else’s eyes, we can discover something new about ourselves. It seems like we’re so quick to step into the molds that we’ve made for ourselves and cater to those around us and only able to break them around complete strangers. I thought this book did a fantastic job representing that.
As for the other short stories in the book, I read another review that said it was almost as if the author was trying to sharpen her skills with a few quickies, and I would have to say I agree with that. Obviously nothing was fleshed out because these stories were so small, but in a lot of cases, the snippets we saw of these people’s lives were them at their worst, and it made it hard to enjoy them. I will say that there were some gems here, and there were one or two that were written in a way that was so raw it was reminiscent of Cara McKenna’s writing – and considering how much I love Cara McKenna, that’s some high praise!
Overall I thought Paris for One was an enjoyable read, and while I could take or leave the rest, I don’t feel like it was time wasted. It was a decent way to while away an afternoon.
This review was originally posted on Books & Beauty Are My Bag.
3.5 stars
If I was rating this book just on the short story Paris for One, it would easily be four stars. While I really enjoyed Nell’s story, I did find the synopsis to be a bit misleading. Nell doesn’t take the plunge and go on her mini-vacation alone. She heads to Paris assuming her boyfriend will be arriving shortly thereafter. He doesn’t show up, and through a series of events, she finds herself staying in Paris (as the title suggests,) alone. I found it really easy to identify with Nell’s character and the kind of insecurities that seem to plague a lot of us. I think my favorite part of the story (aside from the super sweet romance,) was how when we get out of our own way and away from everything familiar and actually take a chance, we can surprise ourselves. And when we can learn to see ourselves through someone else’s eyes, we can discover something new about ourselves. It seems like we’re so quick to step into the molds that we’ve made for ourselves and cater to those around us and only able to break them around complete strangers. I thought this book did a fantastic job representing that.
As for the other short stories in the book, I read another review that said it was almost as if the author was trying to sharpen her skills with a few quickies, and I would have to say I agree with that. Obviously nothing was fleshed out because these stories were so small, but in a lot of cases, the snippets we saw of these people’s lives were them at their worst, and it made it hard to enjoy them. I will say that there were some gems here, and there were one or two that were written in a way that was so raw it was reminiscent of Cara McKenna’s writing – and considering how much I love Cara McKenna, that’s some high praise!
Overall I thought Paris for One was an enjoyable read, and while I could take or leave the rest, I don’t feel like it was time wasted. It was a decent way to while away an afternoon.
This review was originally posted on Books & Beauty Are My Bag.
August 14, 2017
Nueve historias cortas cuyo punto en común es el amor. Cada una de las historias trata sobre uno de ellos: desamor, infidelidad, problemas de recién casados... aunque sinceramente parece que la infidelidad es una constante en este libro. Hay dos historias un poco más largas, una de ellas la que pone el título a esta novela y mi favorita. Dulce, tierna y con toques de humor, ha sido sin duda la que más he disfrutado. Para los que os apetezca leer algo ligero, con historias cortas para pasar el rato, es bastante recomendable.
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