- Author & Screenwriter -

A trip to Paris told with heart and humor

Coates' book gives the reader a vivid vision of a beautiful city. He skillfully describes what the character sees but even more skillfully he describes what the character feels. And the author uses his wicked sense of humor to keep the reader on his toes. I look forward to reading his next book. – keokukdave, Amazon Verified Purchase

Lovely book.

This book was absolutely charming. It's a story about the city of Paris as much as it is about a man and his relationship/feelings about his father.

One recommendation-From the beginning, have a tablet or device ready to research the works of art and sights that are mentioned in the book. I did this towards the end and wish I had started it earlier.” - Sarah Walker, Amazon Verified Purchase

Virtual trip to Paris - thought-provoking, yet fun!

I felt like I visited Paris with a good friend. The descriptions of several landmarks make it possible for one who has never seen the city in person to know what it is like to navigate the streets and take in the sights. Conversational in nature and complex in its subject matter, this book is simultaneously a light read with heavy subject matter.

Some pages made me laugh out loud...others caused me to become quiet and reflective.

The work is also full of clever word play, making this reader feel proud to understand the humor! Both fun and thought-provoking... – jenifer, Amazon Verified Purchase

​Amazon.com  - In Papa's Shadow - 5/5 Stars  (as 11/01/2018)

goodreads.com - In Papa's Shadow - 4.5/5.0 Stars  (as of 11/01/2018)

In Papa's Shadow

Very well written, much about the history of Paris. It was like taking the trip myself. I enjoyed reading the story very much. - J Weisser, Amazon Verified Purchase

What a fantastic book. It has a very conversational feel, and the author has an uncanny ability to make you feel as if you are actually there, following in the footsteps, experiencing the heartache, and emotional roller coaster of the narrator. Funny at times, touching at others, descriptive, detailed, light and captivating. A story well worth reading. 

Fresh, contemporary, fast read, good for book clubs.

A very fresh approach in a writing style. I enjoyed the book very much and would recommend it to other readers.it would make a good book for book clubs. I would recommend that the author put together, on line, discussion questions for small groups. - Jan Jackson, Amazon Verified Purchase

Richard L. Coates

Everyone's Paris is different. I was on Google throughout the book. Some new places for me and some old. How lucky he was. Everyone should have a "Sophie" in Paris. Good story telling, good description of Paris. It was interesting that he didn't over/back research. It gave the story a fresh realistic feel. - Azimov6, Amazon Review Comment

In Papa's Shadow review

Loved the book. Full of historical facts.  Made me want to see the " real Paris" next time.  A lovely read  – Elaine, Amazon Verified Purchase

The book drew me in immediately. I felt connected with the author; with the experiences he was having. I found the book comical - even laughed out loud a few times. The detail was amazing. I have never been to Paris, nor have I ever wanted to go, but through the author's description, I felt like I was there. I'm eagerly awaiting the second book.

I received this book as a goodreads First Reads giveaway.

Despite his success in the advertising business, Robert always felt that he could never live up to the standards set by his father, a renowned surgeon. When his father died suddenly, he became depressed, and was advised by his best friend to take some time off to come to terms with his loss. Robert decides to go to Paris for a few weeks to get away from the usual stresses of his life.

While in Paris, he visits all the historic landmarks that make the city a tourist destination. And, finding inspiration in the art, architecture, and life of the city, he eventually recognizes his own worth.

It sounds like a simple story, and it is. But the richness of the author's descriptions of Paris adds layers to the story that make it far more complex than just a travel story. Mr. Coates has a good feel for the significance of the artistic and historical treasures that are found there, and manages to present them in a way that will make readers want to visit the city.

If you've ever wanted to see the City of Lights, this book is a good introduction to the many sights there, in addition to the very real account of one man's finding peace in the treasures there.***Upon further consideration, I have added another star to my rating. I was originally unsure as to whether I felt it deserved three or four stars, but thinking back on the feelings it evoked in me, I realized that it is a very good writer who can draw his readers into his work as well as Richard Coates has done here.

The real Paris

Loved this book! Loved the 'real' description from a tourists point of view of age old city. I loved the cultural point of view and the relatable tale of a man and how he dealt with the grief over a loss of a loved one. Especially loved the ending. Highly recommend! - Michele Womble, Amazon Verified Purchase

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