I really enjoyed "The Lost Bookshop" by Evie Woods and she is able to carry on the magical storytelling in her latest book "The Mysterious Bakery on Rue de Paris". Part love story, part mystery, this is an homage to French bakeries and the families that run them. Ok there is one strand of the story that I had to just go with but the author has a real way with characters and capturing how it is to go and live in France without knowing anyone. Definitely a feel good novel.

I'm so grateful to Netgalley for this copy of "The Mysterious Bakery on Rue de Paris" by Evie Woods. I first read "The Lost Bookshop" by Woods on 2022, and to put it simply, I fell in love with Martha, Opaline and Henry, and the charming, warm tale that Woods wove around their lives. I've lost count of the number of times that I've recommended that book, or bought it for friends.
I've also loved "The Story Collector", and the short story "Betwixt", (especially The Story Collector), but "The Lost Bookshop" has really stolen my heart. So, you can understand, that this new publication of "The Mysterious Bakery on Rue de Paris", has a lot to live upto.
I read the original story back in 2022, shortly after reading TLB, and I thought that it was an enjoyable story but not hugely memorable. However, this updated and expanded version is avery different tale. The original story was around 180 pages, and this newer edition is closer to 400, with changes to characters, and an extended background to Monsieur Moreau, Hugo and Edith. The experience and growth of the author also shows here and the newer story is simply beautiful.
I think I have a contender for a book that is as beautiful as "The Lost Bookshop"; this time round the book is not set in Ireland or a version of Ireland it is set in a small town in France; about an hour north of Paris, called Compiègne. Our protagonist is a 29 year old Irish woman called Edith, and there are numerous poignant scenes, (I could empathize with quite easily) as Edie spoke of her grief at loosing her mother and her struggles to cope with this loss. I found those scenes were beautifully written, and while I definitely did cry, this is, a book that has also made me cheer as I support Genevieve, laugh at the antics of Nicole & Johnny. Not forgetting, shouting at Hugo!
In short, I loved this book. It has a magical heart - and is a warming, funny and poignant tale. I can't recommend it highly enough. A full five stars, and if I could give it another five I absolutely would.
Oh, and that hot chocolate receipe? Oh, my. That is incredible!

I loved this book. It is pure escapism and beautifully written. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for the advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review. Evie woods is now a must buy author for me.

The Mysterious Bakery on Rue De Paris by E. Woods, published by Harper Collins UK /One More Chapter is a gem that you don't want to miss.
Beautifully written, warmhearted gives the story all the feels.
I recommend the book, 5 stars.
Blurb: Nestled among the cobblestone streets of Compiègne, there existed a bakery unlike any other.
Rumours were whispered through the town that its pastries offered a taste of magic, chasing away the darkest of sorrows. Just one bite of a croissant might bring luck, unlock a precious memory or reveal hidden longings.
But dark clouds were looming on the horizon…
For Edie Lane, a recipe for disaster doesn’t require that many ingredients. Take an unhealthy amount of wishful thinking and a sprinkle of desperation and that’s how Edie left everything behind in Ireland for her dream job at a bakery in Paris. Except the bakery isn’t in Paris – and neither is Edie.
This might not be where Edie intended to be but she soon realizes it's exactly where she needs to be.