Book Review: Paris Is Always a Good Idea by Jenn McKinlay
As someone who often dreams of wandering through quaint European streets, Paris Is Always a Good Idea instantly captured my attention. Jenn McKinlay, renowned for her ability to craft relatable characters and engaging narratives, takes us on a journey of self-discovery, love, and the bittersweet essence of nostalgia. It’s often said that travel broadens the mind; McKinlay brilliantly illustrates how it can also heal a heart.
The story revolves around Chelsea Martin, a thirty-year-old fundraiser facing pivotal life changes. After losing her mother and watching her sister navigate a tumultuous romantic life, Chelsea feels adrift. When her introverted father announces his engagement, it acts as the catalyst for Chelsea to revisit her past—the one she left behind during her life-changing gap year filled with love, laughter, and heartbreak across Ireland, France, and Italy.
What struck me most in this timeless narrative is how McKinlay weaves in themes of loss, resilience, and the quest for identity. The travel element is not merely a backdrop; it serves as a narrative arc, guiding Chelsea back to the woman she once was, full of dreams and curiosity. Her encounters with past loves—Colin, Jean Claude, and Marcelino—offer her a chance not only to relive cherished memories but also to reconcile with herself.
McKinlay’s writing style is warm and inviting, a blend of humor and poignancy that kept me turning the pages. The pacing cleverly mirrors Chelsea’s emotional journey—from frantic and chaotic as she embarks on her travels to reflective and serene as she uncovers layers of herself long forgotten. McKinlay’s use of vivid imagery brought to life the essence of each location, making me feel like I was strolling alongside Chelsea, sipping coffee in Paris or wandering the rolling hills of Ireland.
A quote that resonated with me deeply was, “Sometimes, you need to go back to where you’ve been to understand how far you’ve come.” This sentiment beautifully encapsulates the theme of the book and aligned closely with my own feelings of confronting the past to appreciate the present. It’s a powerful reminder that our journey shapes us, including the heartbreaks we often wish to forget.
If you’re a fan of heartfelt contemporary romance laced with humor, or if you’ve ever wondered whether the ghosts of your past can guide you toward your future, Paris Is Always a Good Idea should be on your reading list. It’s a delightful escape that blends the charm of travel with the exploration of personal growth and the whimsical side of love.
In closing, McKinlay’s novel isn’t just a journey across Europe; it’s a journey within. Reading it allowed me to reflect on my own experiences of love, loss, and the paths we take to rediscover ourselves. This book reminded me that while life can be unpredictable, there’s always hope—and sometimes, love finds you in the most unexpected places. Whether you’re curled up on the couch or daydreaming at a café, this book offers a comforting reminder that, indeed, Paris is always a good idea.