The Paris Novel by Ruth Reichl

When Stella’s estranged mother passes away, she leaves behind an unusual inheritance: a one-way plane ticket to Paris and a note that simply says, “Go to Paris.” Stella, who has always played it safe due to a painful childhood, is far from the adventurous type. But when her boss encourages her to take time off, she reluctantly decides to honor her mother’s final wish.

In Paris, Stella initially falls back into her cautious routine, sticking to what she knows. But everything changes when she stumbles upon a vintage store and, after trying on a stunning Dior dress, is convinced by the shopkeeper that it was meant for her. For the first time in her life, Stella does something impulsive—she buys the dress—and begins a journey of self-discovery.

Her adventure kicks off with a visit to the iconic brasserie Les Deux Magots, where Stella tries oysters for the first time and meets Jules, an elderly art collector who takes her under his wing. As Jules introduces her to the artistic, literary, and culinary elite of Paris, Stella begins to embrace a new, larger life.

Over the following weeks, Stella experiences the pleasures of Paris—living as a “tumbleweed” at the famed Shakespeare & Company bookstore, unraveling a century-old mystery in a Manet painting, and discovering a newfound passion for food that may be tied to her past. This novel is a celebration of living fully, taking risks, and ultimately finding one’s true place in the world. A true feast for the senses.