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Voted as the Favored French Novel of 2025, this captivating story unfolds in the enchanting backdrop of romantic Chicago.

Unravel the intriguing narrative of a love story, set in the bustling city of Chicago, that has left readers spellbound, claiming the prestigious Babelio Prize. Delve into the compelling plotline and uncover the factors that have contributed to its widespread acclaim.

The 2025 favorite French novel proved to be a romantic tale set in the heart of Chicago.
The 2025 favorite French novel proved to be a romantic tale set in the heart of Chicago.

Voted as the Favored French Novel of 2025, this captivating story unfolds in the enchanting backdrop of romantic Chicago.

In the heart of Chicago, paramedic Romeo Cruz finds himself in an unexpected predicament when Maxima Miller, a woman who has been missing for three years, reappears and asks him to play the role of her boyfriend for protection.

Romeo, a discreet hero with a paramedic vocation that mirrors his need to help and protect, is depicted as a complex character, embodying both strength and vulnerability. On the other hand, Maxima is a character of contrasts, strong yet vulnerable, striving for inner freedom.

"To Our Beating Hearts," published by Addictives editions in January 2025, is a novel that tackles contemporary social themes such as domestic violence, male solidarity, and the role of altruism in professions. The authors, Clara Dupont-Monod and Jean-Baptiste Andrea, were awarded the prestigious Babelio Prize for the best novel work for their sincere and captivating work.

The urban backdrop of Chicago serves as a dynamic yet unobtrusive setting for the novel, providing a stark contrast to the emotional turmoil that unfolds between Romeo and Maxima. The romantic tension in the novel gives way to an authentic chemistry, developing without clichés or shortcuts, in a rhythm that allows emotions to breathe.

The novel does not shy away from the weight of the past, fears, mistrust, and secrets that both characters carry. These themes are treated with discretion, adding depth to the novel beyond simple entertainment. The external threat is not the main obstacle in the novel, as the weight of the past becomes the real obstacle to overcome.

"To Our Beating Hearts" appeals to a wide readership interested in stories of resilience and credible characters. The novel is not a typical feel-good romance, but rather a story of hope forged in trials. Emma Green, a duo of French New Romance writers, has won the Babelio Prize for the best romance novel with their book "To Our Beating Hearts."

Emma Green's writing in "To Our Beating Hearts" is fluid, direct, and features authentic dialogues that resonate with readers. The novel is a testament to the power of human connection and the healing that can come from facing one's fears and past. It's a story that will leave readers with a sense of hope and inspiration.

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