A good story. Finding a red notebook within a purse leads the bookstore owner to seek out the owner. She had been attacked and is in a coma. Enjoyed this one, and the back and forth story line worked well. The ending felt a little abrupt, but otherwise really enjoyed this one and would highly recommend.

Thanks to Netgalley and Pushkin Press for an eARC. A woman is mugged and her purse is stolen. The next day a man finds the purse and goes on an adventure to find the owner. A cute romance that made me smile. I enjoy this author’s writing style. It is a French book that has been translated. Hope to read more of their work.

This book felt as if I were reading a beautiful, contemporary classic! A story of circumstance, second chances, and love. I wonder why I haven’t read other books by this talented author until now. Can’t wait to read more!

In brief moments of lucidity in a Parisian hospital, Laure drifts in and out of a coma. Her thoughts wander to memories. Meanwhile, Laurent happens upon a woman's handbag. Historically, the only times he has peeked inside such bags was with permission and for only a few seconds so he is reluctant to search. However, he knows how important handbags are to their owners. Besides, he was curious, especially when he discovered a red notebook filled with unusual lists and thoughts. He found no identification but he was determined to reunite the owner and her bag. Besides. This was interesting stuff! The owner had to be quirky...what if she was a match for him?

I like that the characters are middle aged and intriguing. I got bits of privacy intrusion feelings but don't believe that was the author's intention. I don't know that I would classify this as romance, though. The writing is wry, engaging and witty. I seldom read novellas as it is difficult to get into meaningful depth. I'm not sure what to think about The Red Notebook. In ways I enjoyed its quirkiness and originality yet can't completely shake Laurent's sneakiness. All in all, this was a like versus love reading experience for me.

This was a heartwarming and unique take on a romance book. Laurent finds a bag which he then decides to find the owner of, with only possessions as clues. It was definitely a different sort of romance book but still a good one that was interesting to read although predictable. If your a fan of romance books then I’d recommend it:
Not sure if this was because it was an arc but there were no chapter numbers which was annoying.
Thank you to Netgalley for an advanced copy of this book, all opinions expressed are my own.