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Ratings & Reviews for

Wanderlust

Lauren Blakely

5 stars

2,417 (35%)

4 stars

2,676 (39%)

3 stars

1,344 (19%)

2 stars

305 (4%)

1 star

102 (1%)

Displaying 1 - 30 of 991 reviews

Lauren Blakely

Author 223 books20k followers

March 20, 2018

★★WANDERLUST is available on all retailers!!!
“Wanderlust is a sigh-worthy, timeless romance teeming with the beauty, magic and wonder of falling in love in Paris.” -Mary Dubé, USA Today Happy Ever After

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Kim Carter

665 reviews25 followers

February 21, 2018

5 + stars!!! "Take a chance on something that terrifies you"....oh how I adored listening to this story. Lauren Blakely takes us on a journey of love that has me just smiling like a loon. Richard Armitage...this man could read me the telephone book and I would swoon like those cartoon characters with hearts popping out of their eyes and heart thumping like mad...Grace Grant ain't too bad either :) I loved the interaction between Joy and Griffin, I loved the descriptions we are given by the author with visions of beautiful Paris in the spring (doesn't help that I now crave a pain au chocolat). Joy is independent, driven and very likable. Griffin is just a dream and fell for him quickly - probably before Joy did..lol. To date, this is for sure my all time favorite Lauren Blakely read....I listened to the audio and I have to say, I think this is the route to take!

2018-favorite audio

Heroesinbooks

1,064 reviews290 followers

February 15, 2018

5 Truly Romantic Swoony Stars

I bought this on audible because I was too impatient to wait for March 20th for the ebook to come out. I'm so glad I did because this book as an audiobook is PERFECT!

Joy is a sassy, bold, smart and gorgeous American woman who decides to jump headfirst into her new job in Paris, France. She has relocated from Austin, Texas after a break up and she is determined to seize life with both hands. She meets the very handsome, lovely and generally all round HOT British guy, Griffin. Griffin is an interpreter (his Mum is French, Dad English). Joy is a chemist (awesome career for a book heroine I thought).

This book had sad parts, hilarious parts but it is ultimately so romantic. OMG I swooned. The narrators are both fantastic but Richard Armitage..... well, ladies, brace yourselves, the man's voice is pure shiver and goosebump inducing. Wow. Yeah, he sounds HOT. (And he's rather lovely to look at too).

Fantastic book. Low angst. Hot passion. Loved it.

HEA? Yes
Cheating? No. No chance of that. These two are captivated by each other.

all-time-favourite-hero audio-book automatic-1-click-author

Kim

2,546 reviews152 followers

November 22, 2017

This is probably Lauren Blakely's swooniest, dreamiest, and most romantic and beautiful love story to date. The Parisian setting is as enchanting as the characters themselves.

Joy Danvers-Lively is going on a much anticipated adventure to Paris for a new job and a new life. She's ready to leave her past behind and live her life on her terms. She's sassy, vivacious, smart, creative, and energetic. But it is hard navigating a new foreign city with limited use of the language.

Griffin Thomas is her new translator and he is British. He has his own plans and dreams to follow through on after he finishes this last extended translation assignment. He's funny, charming, handsome, and easy-going...and that accent...

They develop a fun, flirty rapport as he tries to help her with the French language. They try to be friends, to resist the pull, and not act on their attraction. Neither was looking for a relationship, but Paris is the City of Love...

His flirty, dirty words in an English accent or in French. Ooh-freakin-la-la! He is adorably sexy, thoughtful, and romantic. But he is a man of his word and has made promises he needs to keep. And Joy just has this zest for life and an awareness of the world around her. She is likable and relatable. Together they have oodles of sexual tension that just keeps building. The moments when they are vulnerable, letting down guards on their hearts, and daring to dream touched my heart the most.

But they have a set time limit, different plans and dreams. They don't want to hold the other back. Their time together is intimate and magical, but scheduled to come to an end with no easy resolution for them both to be able to accomplish their dreams.

This story is told in dual points of view so vividly that I could almost see, taste, and smell it. Paris came alive. I felt like I was on vacation with this hot man showing me the city and speaking French. It made me crave chocolate and pastries. The connection between the characters was intimate and well developed. Their back stories had difficulties and pain that had shaped them and their choices. I just fell in love with them and the treasures of the city. But these two have new choices to make and there are no easy answers.

I liked their respective friends Elise and Christian. They both had interesting personalities and I would love to see them explored more in a future story and to get more in this setting.

This is a captivating, sweet, witty, and swoony romance between an American and a Brit in Paris. It's about living life to the fullest, pushing boundaries, taking chances, and finding your own place in the world. I was drawn right into their experiences and felt I lived it with them. And I enjoyed it all. Now I really need some pastries and chocolate...seriously!

I was gifted a copy in exchange for an honest review.
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5-stars best-of-the-best-2018 faves-of-2018

Ryan - Sweet Red Reader

1,373 reviews81 followers

February 20, 2018

I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of the book.

Wanderlust is officially my favorite Lauren Blakely book. It moved me in ways I can't yet explain. And time will tell, but I think it may have even changed my life - or my mindset at least (and isn't that truly the beginning of real change?). This may seem a bit dramatic, but I mean it sincerely. There were so many aspects of the book, from the setting to the characters, that truly resonated with me and I found myself pausing the book on several occasions in order to ponder and reflect and rejoice. There is Joy's love of fragrance (and her ex's issues with them that dimmed her enjoyment of them): I too am OBSESSED with fragrance and have to contend with someone who doesn't share or understand that passion. There have been times when I've longed to be the type of woman that has a signature scent, but there are too many beautiful smells in the world to narrow myself down to just one, so the fact that Joy shares that sentiment and changes her fragrance frequently (daily even) is so me. Add to that, Griffin (oh Griffin!) appreciates that about her; he understands how important fragrance is to her and he makes a point to comment on it and recognize its significance to her. That alone was enough to steal my heart and though that may seem a minute aspect, it really meant a lot to me personally. Often times in books the heroine is identified and associated with a unique scent, so to have one that mirrors me and my tastes was fortifying to my spirit. Then there is the setting of Paris - it has been my lifelong dream to be "an American girl in Paris," but life (and my partner's staunch avoidance of airplanes) has derailed that dream. I find myself in tears even as I type this, that is how fierce the desire to visit the City of Lights is within me and reading this book allowed me to tour the city vicariously through Joy and Griffin, but it has also bolstered my resolve to experience it for myself - even if it's on my own. That was another part of the book I truly loved - time is our most valuable asset and none of us can afford to squander it away.

I also really enjoyed discovering that the author and I may share a similar taste in books outside of the romance genre (although if her own works weren't evidence enough that she's my type of gal, the fact that she is besties with Lili Valente would have sealed the deal), so now I have to create my own bucket list and add "meet Laura Blakely" to it - I have a feeling we would really hit it off IRL.

I could continue to wax poetic on what a fantastic book Wanderlust is, but right now it feels too precious and personal to me to expound on the plot and characters outside of how profoundly they affected me. It's safe to say this is a 5 wine glass read for me, one that I will read/listen to over and over again, particularly when I need a reminder to hold on to my dreams and wholeheartedly embrace the things that make me me.

arc-love audible best-of-2018

Jennifer Garcia

Author 44 books91 followers

March 11, 2018

Loved. I love all the Blakely books I've read, but this one seems to top them all. Destination books seem to be the ones that leave a long-lasting impression on me, and this one definitely did. Paris has always been a place I'd love to visit, but now it's a must. And, I know I'd explore it in a different way than I would have before reading Wanderlust.
Joy and Griffin were a delight and their banter was so much fun. Watching characters grow in a realistic fashion is so rewarding, and Joy and Griffin truly did in the book. And since 99 % of my reading is done by audio, I have a thing about narrators. Well, Richard Armitage's voice was panty melting. British accents really are the best. You are so right, Joy.
OK, I also have a love for scents, and now I need a list of perfumes mentioned in the story with their scent descriptions. I am intrigued and need to go out and smell all those listed. Help, Lauren. :) Thanks for writing an amazing story and sharing. <3

2018

Janice

880 reviews

February 9, 2018

A Review of Wanderlust by Lauren Blakely

Joy and Griffin - 5+++++ Stars

Ahhh, Paris! I had the pleasure of going to Paris just a couple of months ago and I LOVED it! I got to go to England to spend some time with my daughter and her family and she took me to Paris for my birthday! The connection between Joy and Griffin was immediate and even though both of them said they weren't looking for anything, I knew they would end up together in some way. What a wonderful storyline this was and a reminder that we never know what tomorrow will bring, so we need to thoroughly enjoy today and what it has to offer. Definitely worth the time to purchase and read.

**Honest review voluntarily provided from a Complimentary Copy**

Laura

2,352 reviews110 followers

March 7, 2018

Le livre entier a touché mon coeur et mon âme. C’était un beau, romantique, émouvant périple à travers Paris et les coeurs de 2 personnes qui étaient destinés. **

Have you been to Paris? If you have, you will smile your way through this book, as it is as much a love note to one of the world's amazing cities as it is about the romance between Griffin and Joy. If you haven't been to Paris, this book will make you feel like you have...reading this book feels like Paris. All of the details are right, the little French shrugs, the scarves, the cafes where you sit on top of one another, drinking coffee and wearing black, the narrow streets. You are transported to Paris. And, it is magical.

Lauren Blakely has a way with words, and she is a gifted storyteller. I love her books, and I am always one of the first in line to tell anyone who will listen how amazing she is. But this book.

This.

Book.

I have no words. It took the perfection of her previous books and it raised the bar. It's the absolute best thing I have ever read by Lauren, and it is the best book I have ever read set in Paris.

I smiled the entire time. My heart was engaged from the beginning and I felt the genuine joy of the story, the characters, and the setting. And, even in the parts that were a little sad, or more emotional (one specifically where I was literally crying too hard to keep reading) my heart was engaged. To write a story that captivates you this completely, it's stunning. I am in awe of the writing, and of her ability to make me connect this deeply with the words on the page.

The story itself, from a plot angle, works. Joy is in a position in her company where bringing her over to Paris, even though she is not fluent in French and needs a translator makes sense. From their first meeting, where they do not know who one another is, to the disappointment when they realize their attraction can't be acted on because of their work relationship, to their slow romantic burn of their growing attraction and their happily ever after, your heart is engaged.

Books just don't get better than this.

5 stars aren't enough. 10 stars *might* be getting closer.

**The whole book touched my heart and soul. It was a beautiful, romantic, emotional journey through Paris and the hearts of 2 people who were meant to be.

***ARC Provided by the Author***

5-star-2018 all-time-favorites top-10-of-2018

Carol Doveatt

109 reviews3 followers

February 25, 2018

This book is incredible! I love every book that Lauren Blakely writes, and have listened to almost all of them too.Wanderlust has taken over the top spot in her books. The audio version of Wanderlust is simply delicious. Richard Armitage with his ever so sexy British accent, and Grace Grant are superb as Griffin and Joy. Lauren made me feel as if I was walking the streets of Paris with all the attention to detail. This book gave me so many feels, and especially such sexy feels. The love scenes are so very steamy and delightful. Besides the romance, and Paris, I found the messages for life intertwined in both Griffin and Joy's lives very relatable to me at this moment in time. Griffin is so sexy, smart, sweet and loving. Joy is independent, a bit sassy, vulnerable, and one kick ass woman. Together they make quite the team navigating Paris, each other, and life. Do not miss this book, and truly the audio is such a fantastic treat! Cannot recommend this book enough. Thank you Lauren Blakely for this delightful, joyful, yummy story!

TJ *Book Twins Reviews*

1,074 reviews2,461 followers

December 6, 2018

Loved Loved Loved It!

Oh my gah! This book is so fracking amazing! I’m head over heels in love with Griffin and Joy! The narration is amazing, the characters are fantastic, and the story is so romantic and perfect! The backdrop of the city serves as a secondary character in the best possible way. It's an amazing and swoon-worthy romance. One of Lauren's absolute best!

Here's the breakdown: Fresh off a recent breakup, Joy moves across the pond to pursue a new position within her company. She's wide eyed and ready for an adventure. She's adventurous and has an amazing sense of adventure. When she runs into a sexy stranger at the local bakery, she embarks on a brand new adventure. One that will lead to an amazing love!

What I loved: How immersive the story feels. Joy’s feelings of helplessness were so impactful, but so were her feelings of pure joy and elation at being in an amazing city so far removed from home. I felt so real. Her struggles with the language and missing home are palatable and real. I know I'd feel the same.
Griffin's struggles with letting go of the past and living in the present have a similar emotional impact. I FLOVED him so hard. He's sexy, smart, and also very adventurous. The sexual tension between the two of them is OFF THE CHARTS!!

As always, the plot, writing, pace, and everything in between was well done. Another new favorite from an incredibly talented author. Highly recommended!

Richard Armitage and Grace Grant’s performances are flawless. The narration is so amazing! I love the way they brought these characters to life.

4.5 Navigating Without A Map Stars

For more of my reviews:
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2018-tbr-can-t-wait 2018-top-faves arc-beta-or-proof

Patricia

1,892 reviews5 followers

February 22, 2018

Once again I feel like I've experienced a new adventure in this book. Better narrator's could not have been chosen. I fell hard with the accent along with the vibrant descriptions of Paris. The story inspired feelings of contentment and left me with a yearning to visit myself. Great story, perfect narrator's and endearing characters. Everything needed to earn a 5 star rating . I am hopelessly addicted to Lauren Blakely and her wonderful imagination

CDBW

1,618 reviews75 followers

February 12, 2018

5 Crazy Ass Must Listen Stars!!!!!

This is a must listen if there has ever been one. Grace Grant. I absolutely love her voice. She just has this way of coaxing you into the world she's narrating. I get lost into every story that she's narrated. Then throw in Richard Armitage and all those luscious accents. I'm a puddle of goo.
I loved the storyline. It was fresh, sweet, sexy, funny, and everything in between. I loved how swept away I felt with this story. I will definitely be listening to this again and again. Gotta love the Romance package!

audiobooks favorite-authors romance-package

Lynn Mullan

1,606 reviews15 followers

November 8, 2017

WOW! What an amazing read. I always enjoy Lauren's books as they are sexy, but fun, too.
But this book...the feels! Sheesh...she had me ugly crying at times, and I can't remember EVER crying over her books before.
Joy, an American chemist, goes to work in Paris, and meets Griffin (her translator) who just happens to be British - her favourite accent. Working closely together, they decide to be just friends, but all their jaunts around Paris - to help Joy master the language - makes them realise how much they have in common.
Joy is getting over a controlling and demanding ex, and Griffin lost a sibling, and as they slowly open up to each other a beautiful love story emerges...but they don't reveal their true feelings before circumstances cause them to part...will they realise what their hearts truly desire before its too late, and find their way back to one another?
Read it...& weep (you will need tissues). But the HEA is delicious <3

Katie Moore

334 reviews4 followers

February 24, 2018

I absolutely adored this book! I am a huge fan of British accents (2 ex boyfriends were English), so the words in the beginning spoke to me! “A sexy accent is the truest aphrodisiac.” This book taking place in Paris was perfect. The romance and magic of the city Lauren writes about transports you. Having spent time living abroad I found I could relate to the magic described! I absolutely adore Joy’s perfume collection/obsession and her ability to give Griffin back that joy. Smells can truly transport you and Lauren does that so perfectly in this book. The only way this audio book could be better is if we had a way to smell the smells that were captured!

Alex in Spades

852 reviews35 followers

February 9, 2018

All the Moments Stars

Beautiful, amazing, enchanting. Full of love, heart and discovering what you love can be the best feeling in the world. Lauren did it again. She created a wonderful tale, and based it in Paris, making it even more magical. Joy and Griffin have my heart. Simply go read it (or better yet, listen to it)!

Though now watching The Hobbit will be a bit weird. Oh Mister Armitage. Damn, you have a mighty delicious voice *blushes*

contemporary-romance favorites oh-swoon

Virginia

721 reviews40 followers

November 21, 2017

Wanderlust is the most romantic book I have ever read. Set in Paris, Wanderlust will take you on a trip that is not only romantic, but beautiful, breathtaking, and sensual.

A hot British guy. An American woman. Both in Paris for different reasons. An epic love story that will stay with you for a very long time and is my favorite read of the year.

Wanderlust is not only a beautiful story, but it is beautifully written. Lauren has captured everything that Paris is. From the sites, to the food, to the language, Lauren was so descriptive, it made me feel as if I was there again. My senses came to life and I felt I wanted to live this story.

I swooned, I laughed, I smiled. I adored every word of this book.

Coming in March 2018, Wanderlust is BY FAR the best of Lauren’s books that I have read. This is romance at its finest. You need to read Wanderlust once it’s out. I promise you won’t be disappointed.

Lauren Lascola-Lesczynski

1,015 reviews32 followers

March 7, 2018

ohh la la...who would have thought that a dirty talking Brit living in France and speaking the language would get me going? Ohhhh wait...I mean that sounds like a effing dream!!!!!! Griffin has ALL the things I want...ALL of them! I would stroll with him through the streets of Paris and just day dream away of all the naughty things he would do to me once we got back to his flat. Ohhh sorry...you prob want to hear about the book...not my dreams...LOL.
Joy has this amazing energy that just has Griffin transfixed. She is bright light and perfume...she is sexy and sassy. They are prefect for each other. The only one problem is that neither of them are permeant...they both love to wander and travel. They are free spirit's...two peas in a pod.
Ohhhh did I mention the HOT and AWESOME sex these two crazy kids have? Cuz it's off the charts like you would expect a British talking hot stud to have.
Anyway...in closing...READ THIS BOOK! NOW!
#Moi #Archibald #Explore #Shag #BlazeDalton #Loufoquering #Angel

Melissa

596 reviews122 followers

March 4, 2018

**Audio ARC provided courtesy of InkSlinger PR**

It's no secret that I adore Lauren Blakely. Her writing never ceases to amaze me but Wanderlust? It just blew me away. The story is so incredibly full of love and passion-both characters and life in general- that I was moved to tears more than once. This is a book that I will come back to over and over again.

I quite simply adored Joy and Griffin. I was grinning from the moment the book began. I don't know if there has ever been a character name more suited to a character than Joy. She brings happiness and laughter, she's quick and funny and so incredibly brave. She doesn't always feel it, but she takes many leaps of faith that had me applauding her. I would absolutely love to visit her in Paris and sit down for a cup of hot chocolate, or champagne, on her rooftop.

Griffin? Well, hello swoon. He is absolutely, hands down, one of my all time book boyfriends. He nudged some pretty impressive ones out of the way to grab his spot, but he's worth it. He is such a sweetheart and so romantic. But there's a vulnerability to him that more than once I found myself just wanting to reach through the book and hold him. I'm sure Joy wouldn't mind. He's so sexy as well-obviously.

These two have intense chemistry. But their connection is so much more than physical. They understand each other. Their sexy times are incredibly sexy, but their time spent exploring the city? Learning about one another? Just magical.

The narration of this book brought it to life for me. Normally, I read a book and then get the audio to keep me company while I work. That being said, I am glad this one released in audio first. Hearing these narrators tell this story added a whole other level of richness to an already rich story. I loved hearing the descriptions of people and places. I truly felt I was there in Paris with them, experiencing this story. I don't know that my imagination would have done these characters and this setting justice. But Grace Grant and Richard Armitage took me on the best audio journey ever.

There's a theme of time and moments in this book, and that really hit home for me. It connected me to these characters as I could understand exactly what they meant. Listening to some of the lines made me hit pause and reflect on what the characters were saying. I was moved to tears-again, more than once. This story was incredibly beautiful and lush. I'm already listening again as I write this because I just can't get enough. The story and narration were perfection. If I could give this more than five stars I would. I adored it and cannot recommend it highly enough.

audio

Jen McCoy

341 reviews169 followers

November 15, 2017

I'm enchanted. Wanderlust has put a spell on me. Its romantic and beautiful and I was captivated from start to finish. I want to go to Paris. I want to experience the magic of Paris the way Joy and Griffin did. It's been a few weeks since I read Wanderlust and just thinking back on it makes me tear up and gives me a tiny ache in my chest. If two people were ever so deserving of each other it's Joy and Griffin. Selfless, unassuming, only wanting the other to be happy, even if it means giving up their own happiness... that's how you know it's real. And now I've made myself cry. Or Lauren made me cry. Someone is responsible for these tears of happiness!

I think Lauren outdid herself with Wanderlust. It's absolutely my favorite book from her. From the moment I picked it up, I just knew it was special. The characters, the setting, the backstory - it's all perfect. I finished feeling complete, like true love could really exist, and maybe there really is magic out there for all of us. 5 stars.

Cyndi Marie ☆★Audiobook Addict★☆

1,527 reviews132 followers

July 16, 2019

🎧 Audio Review 🎧

I want to go to Paris now!!! I truly could visualize everything in this book. I could tell by the descriptions of everything that Lauren Blakely wrote about what she saw while visiting the city or did some great research. I think that was my favorite thing about this book, seriously I could taste the chocolate with berry's and lime juice and to me that is awesome writing.

Griffin is a seriously great character because he was so realistic to me. He had some hard situations in his past and was just trying to live each day and wanted to do what he thought he needed to do. Joy was also great because she had her insecurities from her past but didn't let them stop her. Even when she was feeling discouraged she would push through it and come out better because of it. Together these two made me swoon, they became friends which I loved. Even though the attraction and the sexual tension was there they still did spend time getting to know each other as friends. I thought this story was very romantic and this would be every women's dream to meet a person and truly just to enjoy each other's company so much while visiting so many great places and laughing together so much. In the end I loved the romance & the way this book left me with a happy light heart in the end.

NOW lets talk about the narration!!! Grace Grant is great as always but Richard Armitage stole the show!! This man with his natural British accent was great but his French was great too! I loved how smoothly he flipped from French to British and he really brought Griffin to life for me! Great Narration choice!!!

completed-2018

All Booked Out

427 reviews4 followers

December 14, 2017

6 stars

This is without doubt my favourite book of Lauren's to date.

It took me on a journey through Paris, and I could see, almost taste, smell and feel everything the characters were experiencing. Griffin and Joy have a connection off the bat, and in the bedroom they are certainly a match for each other! OOH la la!

I tell you, If there is ever just 1 book (and there isn't) of Lauren's to put to film, this is it. Or do this first!! I have to see this come to life. Reading gave me the feels, tear soaked feels. Seeing would give my feels, feels.

I can't wait to listen on audible and be swooned off my feet all over again.

Nissa | Of Pens and Pages Book Blog

337 reviews1,005 followers

February 9, 2018

Review and Behind-the-Scenes footage of Richard Artimage for Wanderlust at Of Pens and Pages.

Overall Rating: 5 stars
Story: 5 stars
Performance: 5 stars

STORY OVERVIEW AND REVIEW:

Wanderlust, a perfect title for a story that will give you a major case of wanderlust, is definitely Lauren Blakely's sweetest novel yet. It's set in one of the most romantic cities on earth, with two strong and charming characters you'll root for from the start.

While one moves to the City of Light to start anew, the other is ready to bid adieu and move on to the next adventure. Joy and Griffin meet in Paris shortly after Joy moves to the country for work. They start their acquaintance with flirty banter and guesses of names, the chemistry between them strong and palpable. They meet again when Joy's company hires Griffin to be her translator.

Now that they're technically workmates, they have to turn down the sparks to stay professional. But when Joy asks Griffin to teach her French and help her experience all the pleasure France has to offer, it's inevitable their restraint snaps.

As they fall more and more for each other, they have to accept the fact that their love affair has a time limit. Once Griffin's contract ends, he's packing his bags to check off the final items on the bucket list his brother made for him before he passed away.

I loved the pacing of this story, the build-up from strangers who have that spark, to friends, then to lovers. I became even more invested this couple because I personally saw that they were falling even more in love. Two words to describe the sexual tension—delayed gratification.

It was sweet, sexy, and oh so romantic. But most of all, it's a story about rediscovering oneself and realizing that the only way to move on and forward is to let go.

WHAT DID YOU LIKE ABOUT THE AUDIOBOOK?

I loved everything. Absolutely everything. I have to be honest that when I first heard Richard Armitage speaking, I had to rewind a few times because I was too distracted by that man's sexy voice. I mean, it's Richard Armitage.

He was fantastic in this audiobook! Not only was he a wonderful Griffin, he made a pretty great Joy, too. His shift from English to American to French accent did things to my heart. His accents for the different characters—Griffin especially when he's speaking in French—were fantastic, all with just enough emotion to shoot straight to my heart.

This is my second audiobook narrated by Grace Grant, and I enjoyed this just as much. Her portrayal made Joy's confidence, the awe she felt for her new surroundings, her feelings for Griffin, so vivid, so tangible.

The collaborative efforts of the two narrators brought a kaleidoscope of butterflies in my stomach. I was transported to Paris, to their romance and happily ever after. I tasted the food, smelled the scents, saw the sights. I laughed, swooned, teared up, and felt hopeful.

WOULD YOU RECOMMEND THIS AUDIOBOOK TO A FRIEND? IF SO, WHY?

Romance lovers will definitely enjoy Wanderlust. Aside from the vivid imagery of everything Paris has to offer, the characters had great chemistry, story arcs, and growths. It was hopeful, sweet, and incredibly dreamy. And did I mention Richard Armitage is one of the narrators? No?

I just have to say, Ms. Blakely knows how to end a book. Whenever I finish her stories, she never fails to leave me in a happy daze and with a full heart. Wanderlust is not an exception.

Tropes: Friends to Lovers, Love Abroad—Paris
POV: First Person, Dual POV
Standalone: Yes

*Audiobook received in exchange for an honest review.

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2018-reads arc audiobook

Yvette ~ Nose Stuck in a Book

637 reviews653 followers

February 10, 2018

As if I needed another reason to want to read a book by Lauren Blakely, she made an announcement that had me inwardly squealing and not-so-inwardly jumping up and down with glee: Richard Armitage would be one of the narrators of Wanderlust. If a crystalline picture of the handsome British heartthrob doesn’t immediately form in your mind, do yourself a favor and Google him. That way you know just who is whispering sweet nothings in your ear while you listen to Wanderlust, the author’s new Audible original. As a blogger who typically reads early ARCs of Lauren Blakely’s upcoming releases, listening to one of her books in audio format isn’t something I’ve previously had the pleasure of experiencing. I typically devour her books, racing through pages to discover what happens next, never slowing down until I reach the end. Listening to Wanderlust was therefore a nice change of pace, enabling me to take my time, to sit back and savor the experience, and to listen to every inflection of every word of every sentence uttered by narrators, Grace Grant and Richard Armitage.

With Grace Grant narrating the part of our American heroine, Joy, and Richard Armitage narrating the part of our British hero, Griffin, listeners are transported to Paris for a love story as romantic as the city in which it’s set. After moving to Paris to begin her new job, American chemist, Joy, is determined to reinvent herself – a process that includes learning French, touring the city, and living every day to its absolute fullest. When Joy meets a sexy British stranger with an accent that’s as irresistible as his roguish charm, little does she suspect that they’ll soon be working up close and personal when that stranger turns out to be her personal translator. With a fluency in several languages and his degree in Biology, Griffin is the ideal person to assist Joy in her daily work, though the position is temporary, as is his time in Paris. It isn’t until they start spending time together after hours that the boundaries between professional and personal become a bit blurry. The two flirt with the possibility of something more, with the attraction between them intensifying as they spend their nights together traipsing around Paris, delighting in the sights and falling deeper into lust.

As a narrative, Wanderlust is pure entertainment from start to finish but, as an audiobook, it’s a truly unforgettable experience. Grace Grant does a wonderful job bringing Joy to life, effortlessly evoking her liveliness, her adventurous spirit, as well as her awe and appreciation for the world around her. And let’s not forget about Richard Armtiage. *sighs* His voice mellifluously delivers Griffin’s inner thoughts and dialogue, sometimes so distractingly that I had to actively stop myself from swooning while listening so I could actually pay attention to the story. Imagine his British accent… Imagine him speaking in French... Imagine the love scenes... With every word spoken in his low timbre, I felt an involuntary need to blush. His voice magically makes everything sound naughtier or, as Joy notes “dirty and delicious”. His pronunciation of the word “sensual” alone will be forever seared into my brain…

Packed with flirty banter, a slow-building, yet scorching hot romance, and characters that are enchanting, voracious, and delightfully unreserved, Wanderlust is a hopelessly romantic, heart-meltingly sweet love story from Lauren Blakely. It made me laugh, made me swoon, and made me wish Richard Armitage could follow me around narrating my life story. If only…

*complimentary copy provided by Audible for an honest review

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Heather Pollock

996 reviews68 followers

February 22, 2018

QueenZany 5 Star Review
WANDERLUST
by Lauren Blakely

WANDERLUST is utter swoon worthy perfection!
Talk about melt your heart sexy and just divine storyline. Plus throw in that broody, sexy Brit, the and the city of love Paris. Boom a 5 star hit, that will guarantee to make you a swoony mess.
Plus OMG Richard Armitage voice!! !If there could be death by a voice I would be a goner.
Yes, this could have happened.

Chris

1,654 reviews15 followers

February 28, 2018

Sexy, swoony, romantic, funny, this had everything. The narrators for this audio book were amazing and made the story come alive. #1 I love this author's books and grab each one as they come out. #2 I grabbed the audio book specifically because the male lead is performed by Richard Armitage. I mean, hello! Also, Grace Grant is fantastic as well. All in all, this is a fantastic story and I would listen again and again.

audible contemporary-romance hot-stuff

Berit Talks Books

2,024 reviews15.7k followers

February 11, 2018

5 OOHLALA STARS with a chocolate croissant on the side🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟🥐

Aww this book was just SWEET..... from the adorable swoon worthy love story,to the delicious chocolates and other treats, to the lovely perfume.... Lauren Blakely does it again!

Joy is starting over with a new dream job in Paris.... I love this girl.... I would love to go to Paris and have a chocolate croissant with her and talk about fragrance with her (I just so happen to have a bit of a fragrance obsession myself).... not to mention she got super excited about a hot pink door.... I mean I get it, it’s a hot pink door! Who wouldn’t want to live there? I really adored her energy and her positivity, absolutely a girl I’d love to hang out with..... something Miss Blakely is always brilliant at, creating super relatable and likable female MCs..... and this is not an easy thing apparently because I read so many books especially in the Romance genre with girls you want to reach through the pages and shake into reality! So thank you Lauren!

Griffin wasn’t too bad either.... he really was the perfect blend of strong, sweet, manly, and vulnerable..... and you’ve got to love a man who is super devoted to his family always earns major bonus points.....

Don’t want to get too into Griffin and Joy’s love story.... because it is a journey I want you to savor as much as I did... just trust me it is delicious and well worth the read/listen.... something I do want to mention though is I really loved the discussion of language and idioms I found it super fascinating..... made me want to learn another language (but I’m sure I will be over that in the morning).... also want to mention I’m not necessarily a huge fan of the British accent... however Richard Armitage has absolutely changed my mind😍

This book is an absolute must read for all romance fans💕 currently out on audio and being released in print in March....

*** i’d like to thank Lauren Blakely and Ink Slinger PR for a copy of this audiobook ***

🎧🎧🎧 you can find my review on the audio narration as well as all the other reviews from my partner in crime and me on our new blog...
https://audiokilledthebookmark.com/

audiobook

Thelma

727 reviews34 followers

February 17, 2018

What an amazing book!!

Joy is an American working in Paris trying to escape from her past and her heart. she is not looking for anything, specially not a sexy man with an English accent. She just wants to experience Paris and learn the language.. but she wasn't prepare to meet him.. him the sexy man, with the sexy accent.
a man that will change her life forever.

Griffin is in paris working as a translator. Trying to fulfill a bucket list and achieving some personal goals that lead him to meet her.. The American that will change his plans and a promise he made to someone he love..

Circunstances will keep them closer together, no matter how much they keep fighting their feelings..

What i love about the story is that not only the characters are mature, they know what they want.. and even if both swear that they weren't interested in finding something more than a friendship.. life kept messing around in a good way with their feelings.. because no matter if they both thought that they shouldn't let their feelings flow.. love will be stronger than their will..

a great story to laugh and fall in love with a beautiful city and a beautiful couple..

Kara Hildebrand (Two Book Pushers)

1,662 reviews145 followers

February 14, 2018

Wanderlust is Lauren Blakely's newest adventure. I have read all, yes all of Lauren's books, and I have to say this is up there with my favorites! It's one of her more romantic books. Yes, it's set in Paris, but along with the city, the characters are just swoony and fun and sexy. An American and a Brit in Paris. Both living there temporarily for two very different reasons. They meet and there's instant attraction and electric chemistry. Griffin is working as a translator and he's pretty much a local now. He loves the city and believes he's seen it all. Joy is a chemist working for a perfume company. She loves Paris. Everything about it. The streets, the sights, the smells. But she can't speak the language. When Griffin is hired as her translator for work, she enlists his help on a personal level. Help her learn the language of love. It's probably not a good idea to get involved with him, but he's just so…perfect. The sexy accent, the handsome face, his attitude. Their attraction is palpable! A rainy day and an umbrella brings them together. The kiss books are written about. The kiss to end all kisses. The kiss that ruins you for all other kisses. The perfect kiss. There's no going back now. Joy shows Griffin so many small things about Paris that he never knew. He's seeing this city from her eyes and he loves it. Griffin is teaching Joy more than just the language. She's learning things she never would otherwise. But there is a timeline on this affair. Griffin is leaving. He has dreams to fulfill. Joy is working in Paris, trying to achieve her dreams. But what happens when dreams change? When things shift and your heart begs to make decisions? Can you have it all with the person you love in the most perfect city in the world? Yes, the answer is yes. You just have to jump. Put faith in yourself and the other person. Take the risk. I loved this story. So much. As I said, this is one of my favorite books by Laruen. She can write anything. Steamy, sexy, erotic. But her swoony romances with extra heat always seem to be my favorites. And, just because it's romantic doesn’t mean it's not hot. Oh, it's HOT! Griffin. I can't even with him. He's so sexy with his accent and his words. He's the perfect man. Joy is funny, smart and sassy. I want to be friends with her! Paris is the third character in this love story. I've never been, but this is the first time that I really want to go. I need to walk those streets. Eat all the chocolate. Shop. Find a pink door…Overall, I absolutely loved it. I laughed, cried, swooned and was fanning myself!

Her bluntness makes me want to thread a hand in her hair and kiss her lipstick off. Then again, everything I know about her makes me want to do that.

Here it is - the great admission that we weren't just heading toward a date. We were going to explore aimlessly together, with that exploration being conducted in a clothes-free mode. Le sigh.

Pam Sherman

69 reviews

February 12, 2018

I love it. Just love it! I finished it Friday night, but had to let it settle a little before writing a review. I have never been to Paris, but feel much like I have now! I really enjoyed the way the City of Lights came to life along with the romance between Joy and Griffin.

Joy's name certainly is fitting. She is just full of joy, and when something happens to bring her down, she pumps herself back up quickly. She is very determined to enjoy her life after having left a bad relationship. When she meets Griffin, the spark is unmistakable. When they find they can't be together as more than friends, they get to know each other. Much more than most book couples ever do! And of course, they find the more they know, the more they like each other, which is just the precursor to falling in love. I was very pleasantly surprised that it didn't take them long to admit to their feelings. They realized early on that time is a precious thing, not to be wasted, but to enjoy every minute! That they do this in Paris is a bonus!

Griffin is such a sweetheart! And he's British! Oh, my, that accent! He does have his vulnerabilities, and is not afraid to put them out there with Joy. A major loss is his life has a big influence on most of his decisions. It contributes to the way he lives his life, determined to enjoy every second.

The narrators of this book were absolutely fantastic! Richard Armitage with that beautiful accent, oo-la-la! Grace Grant did an awesome job as well. They both are at the top of my narrators list, because they simply bring the people, places, and situations in the book to life.

I read anything Lauren Blakely writes, but this has become my new favorite! I know I will have to read it again soon... I'll need to go visit Paris again!

This is not 'just a book', it is an experience. Thanks to Ms. Blakely's fabulous writing, and the narrators bringing it to life. It's worth more than 5 stars!

Stephanie Villere

1,156 reviews2 followers

March 10, 2018

This is Wanderlust written by Lauren Blakely. I REALLY LOVE this book! We start out with the sweetest “meet cute” and you can’t help but smile. Joy is going to be living in Paris for three months and will be working closely with Griffin. Why? Why? Why did they have to be working together?!? They both decide for themselves that anything besides a professional relationship would be off limits at the moment. Have you ever met the most perfect person at the exact wrong moment? How far would you go to be with the person that could potentially be “the one”? Joy and Griffin try to keep it strictly business. Sometimes things don’t work out as you had planned. This is one of those times. Now there is a huge “end” rushing toward them and neither one knows how to stop it. I feel like I have toured the city of Paris as I was reading this story. Ms Blakely has brought it to life and given us a front row seat into the tragic story of Griffin and Joy. Be prepared to grab the tissues before this one is done. You will be so glad you took the time!!

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Wanderlust

Lauren Blakely

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