Two absolute gems of novels I bought in London

While browsing in Daunts, in Marylebone High St., my favourite London bookshop, a couple of weeks ago I came across two two paperback novels by a French author whose name I had not previously come across - Antoine Lauraine. He had been in the shop the previous week. I was attracted to both titles so bought them along with various others. 

Since returning home I discovered they are both signed by the author. I have now read them both and found them utterly charming.I was smiling widely as I concluded both of them.

I reckon they are both masterpieces in their own way and on checking am not surprised to learn that they were both huge best-sellers in France and have since, in translation, had ecstatic reviews (see below) and impressive sales in the UK.. 

The Red Notebook - Antoine Laurain -Gallic Books, London - UK8.99

Bookseller Laurent Letellier comes across an abandoned handbag on a Parisian street and feels impelled to return it to its owner.
The bag contains no money, phone or contact information. But a small red notebook with handwritten thoughts and jottings reveals a person that Laurent would very much like to meet.
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 President's Hat - Antoine Laurain - Gallic Books, London - UK8.99

Dining alone in an elegant Parisian brasserie, accountant Daniel Mercier can hardly believe his eyes when President François Mitterrand sits down to eat at the table next to him.

After the presidential party has gone, Daniel discovers that Mitterrand's black felt hat has been left behind. After a few moments' soul-searching, Daniel decides to keep the hat as a souvenir of an extraordinary evening. It's a perfect fit, and as he leaves the restaurant Daniel begins to feel somehow . . . different.






UK Reviews:
'This is 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' Christian House, The Telegraph

'An instant, flawless masterpiece of Parisian perfection.' Five stars The Bookbag
Praise for The President's Hat:

'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