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The Red Notebook Paperback – April 7, 2015

4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 7,178 ratings

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"Laurain presents the story as if it were reportage, but with the confidence of an age-old storyteller."—San Francisco Book Review

"Laurain's gentle, satirical humor remind this reviewer of Jacques Tati's classic films, and, no, you don't have to know French politics to enjoy this charming novel. Fans of Muriel Barbery's The Elegance of the Hedgehog will want this."—Library Journal

"A hymn to la vie Parisienne . . . enjoy it for its fabulistic narrative, and the way it teeters pleasantly on the edge of Gallic whimsy."—The Guardian

Heroic bookseller Laurent Letellier comes across an abandoned handbag on a Parisian street. There's nothing in the bag to indicate who it belongs to, although there's all sorts of other things in it. Laurent feels a strong impulse to find the owner and tries to puzzle together who she might be from the contents of the bag. Especially a red notebook with her jottings, which really makes him want to meet her. Without even a name to go on, and only a few of her possessions to help him, how is he to find one woman in a city of millions?

The Red Notebook has already been sold in twelve different languages. French TV is making a film of The President's Hat and the movie rights of The Red Notebook have been sold to UGC.

Antoine Laurain was born in Paris. He is the author of five novels, including The President's Hat.

"All the Little Raindrops: A Novel" by Mia Sheridan for $10.39
The chilling story of the abduction of two teenagers, their escape, and the dark secrets that, years later, bring them back to the scene of the crime. | Learn more

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From the Publisher

"The very quintessence of French romance", praise for The Red Notebook from The Times
Praise for The Red Notebook by Antoin Laurain
The Red Notebook by Antoine Laurain

Editorial Reviews

Review

'In equal parts an offbeat romance, detective story and a clarion call for metropolitans to look after their neighbours. . . . Reading The Red Notebook is a little like finding a gem among the bric-a-brac in a local brocante' The Telegraph

'Resist this novel if you can; it’s the very quintessence of French romance'The Times

'Definitely a heartwarming tale' San Diego Book Review

'Soaked in Parisian atmosphere, this lovely, clever, funny novel will have you rushing to the Eurostar post-haste. . . . the perfect French holiday read'
Daily Mail

'This tender and charming romance, written with characteristic Gallic flair, is part mystery and part love story. Flawlessly written, it does everything just right and, at the end, leaves a smile of satisfaction' Foreword Reviews

'An instant, flawless masterpiece of Parisian perfection' The Bookbag

'An endearing love story written in beautifully poetic prose. It is an enthralling mystery about chasing the unknown, the nostalgia for what could have been, and most importantly, the persistence of curiosity' San Francisco Book Review

'A warm whimsical romantic cozy in which the location and the support cast bring plausibility to Laurent’s quest that will remind the audience of the movie Serendipity' Midwest Book Review

'With elements of mystery, romance, and drama coupled with the effervescence and charm of Amélie, The Red Notebook is a perfectly delightful and bubbly tale' Typographical Era

'This is a novel you read with a smile on your face and a thirst to find out how it ends' Elle

About the Author

Antoine Laurain is the award-winning author of nine novels including The Red Notebook (Indie Next, MIBA bestseller) and The President’s Hat (Waterstones Book Club, Indies Introduce). His books have been translated into 25 languages and sold more than 200,000 copies in English. He lives in Paris. 

Emily Boyce is a translator and editor. She was shortlisted for the French Book Office New Talent in Translation Award in 2008, the French-American Translation Prize in 2016, and the Scott Moncrieff Prize in 2021. She lives in London. 

Jane Aitken is a publisher and translator from the French. 

Product details

  • Publisher ‏ : ‎ Gallic Books (April 7, 2015)
  • Language ‏ : ‎ English
  • Paperback ‏ : ‎ 240 pages
  • ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1908313862
  • ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1908313867
  • Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 2.31 pounds
  • Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5 x 0.75 x 7.75 inches
  • Customer Reviews:
    4.2 4.2 out of 5 stars 7,178 ratings

About the author

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Antoine Laurain
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Antoine Laurain is a novelist, screenwriter, journalist, director and collector of antique keys. He is the author of the best-selling novels The President’s Hat and The Red Notebook.

A truly born and bread Parisian, after studying film, he began his career directing short films and writing screenplays. His passion for art led him to take a job assisting an antiques dealer in Paris. The experience provided the inspiration for his first novel, The Portrait,winner of the Prix Drouot.

Published on the eve of the French presidential elections of 2012, Antoine’s, fairytale-like novel The President’s Hat was acclaimed by critics, readers and booksellers, who awarded it the Prix Landerneau Découvertes. In the UK, it was a Waterstones Book Club and ABA Indies Introduce pick. Unsurprisingly, the novel quickly climbed into a Kindle Top 5 bestseller. This novel, full of Parisian charm, was the winner of the Prix Relay des Voyageurs, a prize which celebrates the enjoyment of reading. Since then, The President’s Hat has been adapted for television in France.

Antoine’s novels have been translated into 14 languages, including Arabic and Korean. Sales of his books across all formats in English have surpassed 155,000 copies. And The Red Notebook (2015) has become one of Gallic Books’ bestsellers both in the UK and the USA.

Also published: French Rhapsody (2016) The Portrait (2017) and Smoking Kills (2018)

Sign up for Antoine Laurain's newsletter and keep up to date with his upcoming novels, book signings and events near you: https://signup.e2ma.net/signup/1874646/1807059/

(Photo credit: Jean-Luc Bertini © Flammarion)

Customer reviews

4.2 out of 5 stars
7,178 global ratings

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Customers say

Customers enjoy the book's charm and romance. They find it a quick, easy read with well-written prose that flows smoothly. The characters are described as interesting and enjoyable to experience from multiple perspectives. Readers appreciate the short length, finding it suitable for vacations or trips to the beach. The translation creates a distinctly French atmosphere, immersing them in the heart of Paris. The humor is described as witty and entertaining.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

340 customers mention "Enjoyment"340 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the book. They find it charming and engaging, with an interesting concept and well-written story. The story is set in their favorite city and the journey is mesmerizing.

"...There is more to the story than that. It is a charming, skillful peeling back of layers or, if you like, adding layer of fine layer of growing..." Read more

"...It is pleasant to read something upbeat for a change. It is a fun summer read if you want something light and lovely." Read more

"...I liked the characters and the idea of the story, even the outcome. There are many book references for book lovers...." Read more

"...also because the characters are so easy to like, and the world they inhabit is so charming...." Read more

155 customers mention "Romance"135 positive20 negative

Customers enjoy the charming love story with lovely romantic prose. They find it hopeful, with an extraordinary series of events leading to a long-awaited meeting. The book is described as a mystery with insightful character analysis and whimsical premise.

"...The subtle, deliciously handled love story is a bonus...." Read more

"...Light hearted, simply written, charming romance. Will try another book by the author." Read more

"...It was a slice of life where an extraordinary series of events led to a long-awaited meeting. Wonderful!" Read more

"...This is a mystery and a romance all wrapped up in one. I can't imagine everyone wouldn't just adore this book." Read more

116 customers mention "Readability"113 positive3 negative

Customers find the book easy to read and enjoyable. They appreciate the well-written story, simple prose, and flowing translation. The book is described as a light and romantic read with a pleasant pace.

"...in its original language (tempted, though...) but this English translation flows beautifully, captures the essentially Parisian 'feel' of the story...." Read more

"...Although the story plays out slowly, the book moves quickly thanks to many little twists and turns and also because the characters are so easy to..." Read more

"...Light hearted, simply written, charming romance. Will try another book by the author." Read more

"...It was a slow, steady burn and despite some questionable stalking on both Laure and Laurent's parts, you're rooting for them - the woman who lost..." Read more

74 customers mention "Character development"70 positive4 negative

Customers enjoy the characters and their development. They appreciate the omniscient POV and experiencing the book from multiple character's perspectives. The characters are drawn with color and personality, making them relatable.

"...I liked the characters and the idea of the story, even the outcome. There are many book references for book lovers...." Read more

"...to many little twists and turns and also because the characters are so easy to like, and the world they inhabit is so charming...." Read more

"Novel storyline. Interesting characters, tho slightly underdeveloped. Light hearted, simply written, charming romance...." Read more

"...the third person omniscient POV fun and enjoy experiencing the book from multiple character's views...." Read more

38 customers mention "Length"32 positive6 negative

Customers find the book's length suitable for short trips like a weekend on the beach or an airplane. They appreciate the short chapters that allow them to pick it up when they have a few minutes to spare. The story takes them on a delightful journey with interesting characters and philosophy.

"I must say I found this slim novel charming...." Read more

"...drinking a glass of French champagne, it lifts you up and takes you along on a short and delightful journey...." Read more

"...humor ( a cat named Putin), and a little philosophy packed into a delightful novella...." Read more

"...This is a French novel--never too sweet; just a small, delicious mouthful of a novel...." Read more

37 customers mention "Translation"33 positive4 negative

Customers enjoy the book's French setting and references to French writing and art. They find the story engaging and describe it as a wonderful little read that puts them in the heart of Paris. The translation is excellent, with well-drawn characters and descriptions of many Parisian scenes.

"...The story was originally written in French...." Read more

"...The novel also benefits from its setting in Paris -- but the real Paris, not the city of tourists and expats...." Read more

"...A little gem which is tightly woven and filled with a million glorious details of Paris and the everyday lives of these characters...." Read more

"...Translators, unfairly, rarely get a mention, but excellent translation from French to English by Emily Boyce and Jane Aitken further enhances this..." Read more

30 customers mention "Humor"30 positive0 negative

Customers enjoy the book's witty and entertaining writing style. They find the language poetic and romantic, with beautiful turns of phrase. The book has a good dose of subtle humor without being silly or sentimental.

"...Interesting characters, tho slightly underdeveloped. Light hearted, simply written, charming romance. Will try another book by the author." Read more

"...There is a wry and gentle humor in this book. Modiano agonizes for half an hour over whether or not to include a comma in his latest work...." Read more

"...being said, the story has a moderate level of mystery, a good dose of subtle humor, and isn't weight down by a painful amount of drama or unresolved..." Read more

"...with depth, and I felt Antoine Laurain accomplishes this with his clever writing and his subtle presentation of such a charming story...." Read more

23 customers mention "Predictable story"12 positive11 negative

Customers have different views on the story. Some find it unpredictable with many twists and turns that keep the plot moving quickly. Others feel it's predictable and thin, lacking in execution. The characters are interesting but slightly underdeveloped.

"...story plays out slowly, the book moves quickly thanks to many little twists and turns and also because the characters are so easy to like, and the..." Read more

"Novel storyline. Interesting characters, tho slightly underdeveloped. Light hearted, simply written, charming romance...." Read more

"...There is a wry and gentle humor in this book. Modiano agonizes for half an hour over whether or not to include a comma in his latest work...." Read more

"...The premise had a lot of potential, but the execution was lacking." Read more

An ABSOLUTE gem.
5 out of 5 stars
An ABSOLUTE gem.
I agree with the Daily Telegraph, this book is an ABSOLUTE gem. Such a lovely story that will appeal to any hopeless romantic. Parisian book shop owner finds discarded handbag. His inner detective is awoken. Will he find the owner? Will there be romance or a restraining order?Well done, Monsieur Laurain! Truly a magical story. Potentially creepy, but magically romantic, nonetheless. A quick romantic mystery that is not to be missed. I highly recommend!
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Top reviews from the United States

  • Reviewed in the United States on May 17, 2016
    Laure is returning from work carrying her beautiful, expensive new purse. She is looking forward to a relaxing evening before the fire with her cat beside her, perhaps a glass of wine... And suddenly a robber seizes her purse, shoves her when she tries to fight back, knocking her out. She awakens, bloody, disoriented, unable to get into her apartment, with no money, no phone, no keys... She makes her way to a hotel, which unwillingly lets her in for a night, and subsides into a coma.

    The next day, the owner of a bookshop sees the beautiful purse sitting atop a trash bin. He takes it, looks inside to find the name of the owner, and finds a notebook, a dry cleaning stub, a set of keys...and nothing else. The owner must have been mugged. Laurent is a kindly man, and he knows the probable value of the purse. The story follows his attempts to glean information about the owner that will allow him to return the purse. And in sifting through the evidence, he finds himself falling in love.

    There is more to the story than that. It is a charming, skillful peeling back of layers or, if you like, adding layer of fine layer of growing understanding, appreciation, wonder and courage. Antoine Laurain is a master of conveying emotions and backstory in subtle touches. How the characters came to be who and where they are... How a kind act turns into a good deed performed for love.

    At its very basic level, you could call this a detective story, with Laurent, the bookseller, trying to make whole the victim of the mugging/purse-snatching and using whatever clues he can find. The subtle, deliciously handled love story is a bonus. And let me mention the presence of a teen-aged girl in this story that was particularly delightful, a cross between Audrey Hepburn and Genghis Khan.

    The story was originally written in French. I have not read it in its original language (tempted, though...) but this English translation flows beautifully, captures the essentially Parisian 'feel' of the story. There were no jarring notes. It is a keeper for me. Five stars.
    5 people found this helpful
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  • Reviewed in the United States on June 6, 2015
    Le Figaro says the author is a storyteller, and this is a fetching tale. If you love Paris, this book takes you into the minds and hearts of two Parisians who seem destined to meet. Laure is a bit of a mystery - you meet her in the first pages when she is mugged in front of her apartment building and the thief steals her purse. Laurent is a bookseller who finds her mauve bag and tries to solve the mystery of who she is through the contents of her purse. Of course, he finds her beguiling.

    One review said fans of the French novel THE ELEGANCE OF THE HEDGEHOG - one of my two favorite novels of the past 25 years - would enjoy this book. Yes, there are some commonalities. Like other readers, I wish this book had been longer. The characters still seemed a tad remote to me. You want to get to know them better. Saw that the rights had been bought to make into a film. It seems a natural for a film. It is pleasant to read something upbeat for a change. It is a fun summer read if you want something light and lovely.
    7 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on March 10, 2024
    It begins with a mystery. A young woman getting mugged, her bag being taken and her winding up in a coma. But who is she. Enter the male protagonist, the owner of a book store, who finds the discarded bag and who then becomes obsessed with finding the owner. In something like the movie “Laura” he falls in love with her, sight unseen, after examining the contents of her purse.

    I liked the characters and the idea of the story, even the outcome. There are many book references for book lovers. But unfortunately it wound up feeling more like a short story, or an appetizer without the full course meal.
  • Reviewed in the United States on March 22, 2018
    I was looking for something light and kind spirited to read, and I honestly could not have done better. As much as I enjoyed “the president’s hat”, i expected this novel to be less engaging, mostly because the premise of this one did seem to offer the whimsy or the soul of the President’s Hat.
    But while “the red notebook” is not as deep or philosophically interesting, it is every bit as much fun to read.
    I don’t want to ruin anybody’s pleasure in reading this book, so i will not go into detail about characters or plot.
    But all The characters, even those whose roles are small, are all fully realized and identifiable people; even the cat was charming.
    Although the story plays out slowly, the book moves quickly thanks to many little twists and turns and also because the characters are so easy to like, and the world they inhabit is so charming.
    I think often a story that plays out like this, where you are waiting for certain inevitable events, can become tedious, but for the most part the author is able to avoid that by jumping back and forth a bit between characters, and by introducing little twists to his gentle mystery
    It helps too that we always know a little more than the characters, rather than the other way around.

    This is supposed to be a light romantic mystery/comedy, and it delivers on its promise.
    12 people found this helpful
    Report
  • Reviewed in the United States on April 26, 2021
    Novel storyline. Interesting characters, tho slightly underdeveloped. Light hearted, simply written, charming romance. Will try another book by the author.

Top reviews from other countries

  • Nicole M. Normand
    5.0 out of 5 stars Entertaining and fun
    Reviewed in Canada on August 2, 2024
    I loved the story, it was really interesting and engaging, with a bit of mystery. Special love story, unlike any I've ever read. I loved the name dropping for authors and books, I even put some on my TBR. Leave it to a bookseller to check the books you have at home. I was really confused as to why Laure never asked for Laurent at his own bookshop when she was researching. Leave it to Chloé to put those two together finally. Antoine Laurain wrote the book in French and it was translated. I'm wondering why some of the French is not good, like blanche colombe (adj/noun); we'd say colombe blanche (noun adj).
  • Louisa
    5.0 out of 5 stars Love it
    Reviewed in France on April 24, 2021
    I love this book ! Very good story
  • Jane B
    5.0 out of 5 stars Story with a difference
    Reviewed in Italy on January 3, 2021
    Really enjoyed this book in French and also in English. Bought several copies to give to friends. Good story, like the characters and loved the sense of being in France with French mentality around.
  • franny
    5.0 out of 5 stars Wonderful book.
    Reviewed in Spain on September 18, 2020
    Came across this book quite by chance and I am so glad I did. I would class it as a cosy book, one that you can read when life throws lemons at you.
  • Garima garg
    5.0 out of 5 stars Great
    Reviewed in India on July 21, 2018
    It is a contemporary romance novel perfect for a beach day. It is an amazing love story set in paris. I had read this book in two days, so you can imagine how amazing this book is!!