A prospective lawyer who secretly wishes to be a tailor meets a reluctant heir who opens her eyes to the joie de vivre.

Serious, sartorial and… French, Lucie has just landed in London armed with her sewing machine and a degree in tax law to seek a lawyer’s career in the city. All that is on her mind is her future as she gradually forgets about the joys of the present, her world becoming grey like the overcast city.

Colour comes her way in the form of an absurd project that pairs her up with Marius, an impish business student who is curiously swarmed by sycophants. But despite quickly getting along with this Englishman who boasts a cheeky charm, Lucie is indifferent to his flirty and suggestive remarks—which, to be fair, are rather tame for her French standards. All she wants is to be done with this project as she tackles a shambolic part-time job and law firm applications.

But as she spends more time with him, and he tries to restore her playful side by pulling her along to a gala full of mischief and a far too immersive murder-mystery game a la Downton Abbey, she’ll soon wish their project would never end.

A slow burn and emotionally deep romance that is tender and sweet like a healing hug for the soul. Perfect for readers who like the emotional development and character growth of Kate Clayborn novels.