This is such a cutie-patootie book! 

Be aware that the beginning is full of cringe and secondhand embarrassment. I’m so glad I waded through that to get to one of my favorite books so far in 2025. 

But as Whitney, the main character, dials down the too-muchness, I really connected with her admiration of Josephine Baker. She's so creative and confident but still has doubts of her place in the world.

Thierry was also a fun male lead. I'm glad he wasn't a butthole. Yeah, he was blunt and serious, but he wasn't unreasonable. It's rewarding when a stoic character begins to melt or be vulnerable. As we see Thierry defrost, it felt earned. I also like that the book didn't exotify him if that makes sense. He's more than the "French lover."

There are so many scenes that I couldn't stop smiling at. And Black American history, Parisian facts, and a little conversation about being Black in France 🇫🇷 expertly weaved in.

If you love sunshine x grumpy pairings, you will love this. One of the most absolutely adorable moments is when Whitney goes to the chocolate shop. Worth the price of admission *wink* This little book will make you swoon.

Please someone adapt this into a YA movie. I’d love for Black girls to have a sweet, lighthearted movie. Completely feel-good!