One Paris Summer

by Denise Grover Swank

Amy McFadden (Narrator)

New York Times bestseller! In this romantic coming-of-age YA novel, Sophie Brooks agrees to spend the summer with her father and his soon-to-be new wife, as well as share a room with her stepmom's daughter, Camille. But what should be a lovely time in the City of Lights, preparing for her audition at the prestigious French music academy she's dreamed of attending, becomes a nightmare due to the lack of a piano and less than sisterly relations ... until the attractive boy next door invites Sophie to practice at his home. But just as everything is looking up, Sophie's first love--and musical future--are in danger.

One Paris Summer:

Is a perfect escape read for teens and fans of contemporary YA romanceCombines the complexities of blended families and finding your own path in life with the thrills of falling in love for the first timeWill appeal to fans of Sarah Dessen, Jenny Han, and Stephanie Perkins

• ISBN10: 1515953912
• ISBN13: 9781515953913
• Publish Date: 7 June 2016
• Publish Status: Out of Print
• Out of Print: 13 March 2021
• Publish Country: US
• Imprint: Tantor Media, Inc
• Edition: Unabridged edition
• Format: Audiobook (MP3)
• Duration: 11 hours and 46 minutes
• Language: English

Reviews

[Sam@WLABB]

Rating: 3.5 stars

One Paris Summer follows Sophie and her brother to Paris to be reunited with their father following their parent's divorce and a 10 month separation. This summer is really a summer of healing, growth, and self realization for Sophie.

This book is heavy on relationships. I really enjoyed watching Sophie realize she wanted to repair the rift between her and her father. It was such an important part of her life, and I just wanted her to have that again. I loved that this whole situation brought out the big brother in Eric. It was quite clear that Sophie and Eric did not share a strong bond when they first arrived in Paris, but it grew into a beautiful sibling tie over time, and was very sweet. Eva was such a beautiful character. She really was the glue for this blended family, and worked so hard. I was very happy when Sophie started to give Eva a chance, and was able to see how special she was too.

At first, I found Sophie really annoying. She was immature and whiny, but I now understand that it was necessary for us. It helped illustrate the growth she experienced during the course of the story. Sophie was not the only one who changed though. I sort of liked that this was a transformative experience for multiple characters. It gives a little more support as to the impact of this summer trip, when multiple characters change in a positive way.

The romance. What is a book without a little romance. It was very sweet. Mathieu was the type of friend, who when he cared for you, he cared deeply and loved fiercely. He had a protective side, a supportive side, and a swoony side. I loved them all.

The adventures in Paris were fun to read about. I was transported back to when I visited, and it was fun to see it through someone else's eyes.

Overall: A cute, coming of age story with an adorable romance, and a great family dynamic, which made me grin.