4/5

"Love Requires Chocolate" by Ravynn K. Stringfield invites readers on a delightful journey through the enchanting streets of Paris, blending romance, cultural exploration, and personal growth into a delectable narrative.

Whitney Curry, armed with meticulous itineraries and a penchant for the dramatic, is set for a semester abroad in Paris. However, her expectations clash with reality as she navigates the challenges of a prestigious lycée, homesickness, and the complexities of learning French. Yet, amidst the whirlwind of emotions, Whitney finds an unexpected guide in Thierry Magnon, a grumpy yet charming French tutor and soccer star.

Stringfield skillfully integrates fascinating tidbits about Josephine Baker, effortlessly intertwining historical facts with Whitney's experiences, enriching the narrative with layers of depth. Through Whitney's eyes, readers are treated to a vivid portrayal of Paris, from its vintage boutiques to iconic landmarks, evoking a sense of wanderlust and enchantment.

The dialogue crackles with energy, and descriptions vividly bring Paris to life, immersing readers in its charm and allure. The slow-burn romance between Whitney and Thierry adds a sweet and tender layer to the narrative, unfolding organically as they explore the city together.

I was initially skeptical of Whitney's character, as she embodies traits of a "pick me" or "not like other girls" persona, I soon discover her depth and complexity, endearing her as she grows throughout the story.

"Love Requires Chocolate" is a lighthearted and engaging read, perfect for those craving a dose of romance and adventure. With its blend of cultural exploration, witty dialogue, and heartwarming romance, it's sure to leave readers swooning and yearning for their own Parisian escapade.

Oh, mon cœur.

I loved this book so much! Whitney Curry is a girl after my own heart.

I appreciate that even though this is YA, Ravynn's writing isn't YA. It's beautiful and complex, and the character and relationship(s) development is *chef's kiss*.

I can't wait to see Whitney and Thierry take on my second home, D.C., together. In the meantime, I'll be brushing up my French and planning a trip to Paris... hopefully with a list that leaves spaces for adventure, chocolate, and who knows... maybe even love. 💗

This book was so adorable and sweet! I really enjoyed it! It made me want to go visit France. I really loved the writing and the characters! The third act breakup was a little bit cliche but I still really liked the book overall. Thank you so much to Netgalley and the publisher for a copy of the arc in return for an honest review!

Paris, chocolate, love...what more could a romance reader want? This story was lighthearted, easy to read, and just the palate cleanser I needed! The characters are developed beautifully to be believable and the building up of the crush is perfect as well! I love the diversity and how history is sprinkled in as well!

when first read Love Requires chocolate, i was kinda skeptical about the main character but as long that i was flliping through the pages . I felt in love with Whitney Cury. She is a stong chracter with an amazing personality . She will stand up for herself and is a social butterfly . The story take place in paris and Ravynn the author know to describe it perfectly. The romance in this book is cute and take slowly nothing is forced or fast . Would definitely recommed this book a 5 starts for me

Awww this one was such a cute romance with such cute characters! Would recommend 😁 rhanks for the arc. Felt like Emily In Paris and I loved the discussion of Baker (Josephine)

What worked: Warm, engaging story of a Black teen whose love of Paris and Josephine Baker leads her to the city where she finds along the way just how enchanting the city really is.

I really loved this romance. Whitney Curry's enthusiasm and love of Paris is a refreshing treat. Her tale feels like drinking a warm cup of Le chocolat chaud and chatting with your friends. Whitney is not only excited about going to an exclusive school in Paris to work on her senior thesis on Josephine Baker, but tries to capture each day by visiting known landmarks, which include the yummy chocolates and macarons. She's kind of like a teen Emily of Paris but with more heart.

Stringfield does a great job weaving in facts about Josephine Baker and her impact on Paris.

The romance between her and cute French tutor Thierry builds into one that is believable as he opens Whitney's eyes to the hidden treasures of the city.

Stringfield does a great job of showing Paris through the eyes of Whitney. Even when she's disillusioned by some aspects-Thierry's ex for one-her determination carries her through.

Lush descriptions, great dialogue, and a very engaging diverse protagonist had me glued to the pages. A fun, light romance set in Paris. What isn't there to love?
Good Points
1. Fun, engaging romance set in Paris
2. Great way of weaving in Josephine Baker
3. Diverse romance

Fairly predictable rom com but it was still a good read that I enjoyed. But I have to say I love this title.

I would recommend this book to people who
-Love Paris
-Enjoyed "Emily in Paris"
-Enjoyed "Find Me in Paris"

"Love Requires Chocolate" was a quick read about Whitney, an American girl who is studying abroad for a semester in Paris. She doesn't know the language that well so she is assigned a tutor, Thierry, whom she also convinces to show her around the city as well to help her study for her assignment.

The romance is sweet in the book, a slow burn that keeps you interested while the two leads have an interesting chemistry. I enjoyed the descriptions of the city, so much it felt like I was traveling around the city with the characters and seeing the sights with them. I believe anyone that has actually traveled to Paris would feel like they have been placed right back there with how descriptive the author is, you can practically smell the bread in the cafe.

I highly recommend this book, it does not disappoint.

Thanks to Netgalley and Random House Children's for the ARC

I stopped after chapter 1 (5%) but between the premise and the writing, this is an easy three to four stars for the target audience with five for the right readers.

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Children’s for the ARC.

Beyond excited to acquire this Emily in Paris themed novel for our YA section. Those in need of a nice light escapist read will love this one! Will be sharing a full review very soon.