Food technician Mina finds herself in an unfortunate situation when her proposal to her boyfriend goes horribly wrong. Soon a video of the event is being shared online leaving Mina heartbroken and in the need of an escape. She heads off to the Swiss Alps to visit her godmother Amelie. Soon Mina is filling her time with skiing experimenting with recipes, chocolate making and developing a romance with fellow guest Luke. Before long Mina is questioning if her old life is what she till wants or could Switzerland offer her new opportunities.

This book as such a sweet and cosy story. I have never read a book by Julie Caplin before although, I do own a few of her books. I love books that involve travel as they allow me to explore the world from the comfort of my own home. Julie has 7 books I believe set in various locations across the world. I decided to start with this one because of the cold snowy setting. I am really enjoying books with this type of setting at the moment as we have been having some cold snowy days here in the UK. I have also been on the lookout for more books featuring skiing and snowboarding since reading a thriller featuring them earlier in the month. This book really fulfilled what I wanted when I picked it up with the setting in mind. The cold snowy location combined with the warm cosines of Amelies chalet worked perfectly. As the guests sat down each afternoon for hot chocolate and cake in front of a roaring fire I was right there with them. The writing and descriptions of the setting just drew me in and really brought the story to life.


This was also the case when it came to descriptions of the food. This book is really heavily centred on food in particular sweet treats and chocolate. From the first few pages we are hit with descriptions of the food Mina is serving at a dinner party and this continues throughout. From the snacks Mina eats on the train to Switzerland to the cakes Amelie serves. From the sweets treats Mina experiments cooking to the cheese and chocolate tour she takes. It will have you feeling hungry and craving sweet treats. The combination of these food descriptions with the setting were my favourite part of the story.

I liked our main character of Mina from the outset. I loved her passion for food and hosting dinner parties, you could tell the joy she got from feeding others. The same can’t be said for her boyfriend who she proposes to at the start. He was a horrible character in both his treatment of Mina and his response to the proposal. I also didn’t think her friends were very nice considering a video of the proposal ended up online and they were responsible! I did however love the character of Amelie, her chalet and the group of guests really contribute and support Mina in her journey. We watch her growth throughout the story and discover her passion and ultimately change her life. I thought the relationship between Mina and Amelie was beautiful.The chalet itself was very unique in that Amelie has regular groups of guests that come back frequently. She is rather selective about who she allows to stay! She has a knack for knowing who need the help of her and her chalet and ensures they keep coming back. As a result all the guests are friends of hers and ultimately become friends of Minas. There was a real found family feeling to this story with the guests pulling together when they had to.

Of course this book has some romance! This comes in the form of Luke who Mina meets on the train and who she has an instant connection with. I loved watching Mina and Luke falling for each other and I loved how uninhibited Luke was in his feelings towards Mina, he liked her from the off and was very clear about that. I enjoyed Watching him teach her how to ski and how he always popped up when she needed him. Part of Lukes job was building model and miniature villages and I really appreciated this. I love model villages so it was something small but I really enjoyed reading about it.

Overall this was a really enjoyable story. It took me to a beautiful location without me leaving my home and it made me feel warm and cosy with its descriptions of food and the setting. It also made me very hungry and left me craving chocolate. It had fun heartwarming moments as well as a lovely cast of characters that gave it a real found family. It also made me add another location to my want to visit list!

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher One More Chapter for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

I love a little romantic escape, and this time to beautiful Swiss Alps! This was a lovely read that was just so warm and cosy! Mina takes some time off work due to a mishap at work and travels to a lovely chalet where she wants to decide what she'd like to do with herself - however an oh-so-gorgeous stranger on a train changes her plans somewhat! The atmosphere throughout the book is captivating, and filled with lovely characters making this a gorgeous read/audiobook!

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for giving me a copy of this book to listen to and review.

This was the first book I read in the Romantic Escapes series and I now want to pick up the rest to read ASAP.

The book was focused on the main character Mina who goes to visit her godmother in the alps. We see her go through all of the emotions and see her falling in love.

An easy read with no drama. Lighthearted and needed in troubling times.

The story began with an original twist and I immediately fell in love with Mina. And as soon as Mina left the country I was hooked.... I loved the description of the countryside. In times of Covid-19 it is so nice to be able to travel just by reading a book ... and the food... ohh the food. I have been hungry all book long

I love listening to audiobooks while doing household chores but I didn’t like the narrators attempts to do Swiss/German accents and the constant little voices.

Overal I loved the sweet story, the setting in Switserland and the love for food.

Do you believe in Serendipity?

This audiobook is simply brilliant!
From the first word I was hooked. Somehow this story just pulled me in and I couldn't put it down. The plot itself is great! I love the idea of moving to another country to follow your dreams. I also really like the atmosphere the ski chalet created and the idea of the guest being basically one huge family.
The story plot is just simply warm, happy and heartfelt. Although, there are some serious things happening as well, I felt happy the whole time I was listening to this book. The love story in this book is simply fabulous and I hope that I will find something like that in real life!
The characters are also all really great and interesting. I love Mina as a whole. I like her passion for life and her interest in food. I find Simon to be a complete idiot and I loved Luke. He is a dream!
All in all a brilliant and heart-warming love story and now I want to read the other books in the series as well!

The narrator of the audiobook is enjoyable and relaxing to listen to. I really enjoyed their voice and it was just really easy to listen to and get into. Just brilliant!

*ARC received from the publisher via NetGalley

I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this book, I had the ARC as well, so I could read when I could and listen when I was too occupied to read.
What a great combination of a fantastic book.
I.love this series and this one didn't disappoint.
Chocolate, romance and a little bit of tension crept into this one too which at 1am was exhilarating and it kept me awake until the very end.
Fabulous.
I wonder where we are heading next, because I definitely want to book my seat.

This is such a cozy read! I just wanted a fuzzy blanket and a cup of hot chocolate as I went skiing in the Alps with Mina and Luke. I would love to go someday and try all the lovely treats that are described.
Mina is disappointed in love and life. In order to get away and reset, she visits her godmother and her homey and cheerful chalet. On her way, Mina has her meet-cute with Luke who appears to be more fling-worthy than the one.
The narrator, Victoria Fox, is excellent. Her voice and intonation lends a complimentary tone to the story. I haven't had the opportunity to listen to her before, but I would enjoy doing so again.
Thank you to One More Chapter and NetGalley for the advanced audiobook. All thoughts in this review are my own.

AudioBook Review:
Overall: 4 Stars Narration 4 Stars Story 4 Stars

Grab a small escape and read (or listen to – I did both) this title. Exactly what it promises: Mina leaves a heartbreaking situation in England to spend time with her godmother in Switzerland. A food technician by trade, Mina likes nothing more than feeding people and seeing their joy as they discover new tastes and new combinations. Well, perhaps that comes in a close second to her love of all things chocolate (not the white stuff, mind- the real chocolate). After her impulsive proposal to her boyfriend and discovering both his infidelity and his inability to deal with her rather impulsive approach to life – she needed to move on and away. A fortnight’s break was suggested, and she flew off to visit her godmother and deceased mother’s best friend at her new ‘inn’ in the Alps.

A stopover and short sightseeing trip derailed by a chocolate shop and many treats –she boards the train for the last leg of her journey only to be bowled over by the lovely Luke – as sparks flash between them and they talk about themselves, their upcoming break and the country. Serendipity is what Luke called their meeting – and their draw led to a kiss. When she later discovers Luke at her godmother’s inn – their connection is undeniable – even as she is determined to make a new life for herself and discover what she wants. WIth plenty of heart, lots of heat and several funny moments in among the life-altering choices and discoveries, the story is sure to please your inner escape moments and warm your heart.

Narration for this story is provided by Victoria Fox, and I loved how she managed to combine Mina’s “go for it” attitude with her new ‘once burned forever shy’ enthusiasm for life as she rethinks who she is, what she wants, and if her natural exuberance and impulsivity are truly something that she must always work to change and adjust for. I read the book, then listened to the audio version: either is a wonderful option – or switch between the two for moments when sitting quietly and escaping into a book just isn’t in the cards.

I received an eArc and AudioBook copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

Review first appeared at <a href=” https://wp.me/p3OmRo-aQY /” > <a> I am, Indeed </a>

The Little Swiss Ski Chalet - Julie Caplin

I was so excited to get my hands on an early e-copy of this book via NetGalley as I have just adored this author's previous Romantic Escape books in the series (this is book number 7 but all books are standalone stories). What was not to like? Chocolate, Cheese and Cake..... Yes please!

I loved joining Minna on her adventures to Switzerland (perfect book to read at the moment with all this pretty snow outside) however now I just need to eat ALL the cake! The scenery in this book was beautifully described and really felt like a holiday escape. I cannot wait for the next installment, thank you so much to NetGalley and Harper Collins for the chance to read and review this lovely book

Snow covered scenes, cheese, chocolate and a host of colourful and fascinating characters all stirred together and gently baked, make this an absolutely delicious novel. I was lucky enough to listen to the audio alongside reading the e-book so I got the best of both worlds.
Recently humiliated and unsure of the direction she wants to move forward in, Mina visits her Godmother Amelie at her guest lodge in Switzerland. A chance encounter on the train only serves to further reinforce Mina’s belief that she needs to settle down and take life more seriously but with adventure on the doorstep and strong feelings developing towards a guest, can Mina figure out who she wants to be?
Mina is such a delightful character. Full of spirit and adventure but one comment really shook her confidence and self-image. There were times when I really wanted to give her a friendly shake and tell her to go with her instincts. Mina’s passion is food and Swiss food is something I know little about, so I loved learning about new dishes – especially the sweet ones.
The chalet is owned by Amelie who I also adored. She is a gentle and wise woman who has a knack for bringing out the best in people. Other characters of the chalet add such a community vibe to the setting and the variety amongst characters is diverse and wonderful. Each character had something so lovely and endearing about them but also flaws and vulnerabilities. Except Simon – I hated him!
The setting is divine. I was completely transported to the ski slopes of Switzerland, feeling the crisp air on my face and the cold of the snow around my feet. I love the idea of the chalet, nestled within this small village serving delicious food (have I mentioned this yet?). I am now desperate to go on a chocolate and cheese train.
As I switched between paper and audio versions of this book I must give a huge mention to the audio narrator, Victoria Fox. Her voice is velvety smooth, like the chocolate that appears so often, and is really soothing to listen to making this the perfect bedtime listen. I really enjoyed the various accents too, changing clearly for each character and really helped me to feel as though I was listening to Swiss people speaking English.
This is a delightful read/audiobook and was pure escapism. Simply wonderful!

This audiobook was a delight to listen to.

The narrators voice is lovely and really helped bring the beautiful characters to life.

All the characters are kind and warming exactly making it a brilliant listen to escape too.

Such a gorgeous story! I listened to the audio version and it was perfect! I won’t be travelling any time soon so getting to read a gorgeous story about travel was fantastic. I loved all the characters especially Luke how their meeting was serendipitous!

The narrator was great and I could have listened all day.

Loved it! It jumps straight in from the first chapter. It was a beautiful story, with a rollercoaster of emotion. The narration was also brilliant. Sometimes it can ruin the book, but thought she was good.

I listened to this as an audiobook and was delighted that this lovely story accompanied me on my Covid walks, transporting me to beautiful and snow-covered Switzerland.

Mina is a food technologist and indeed food plays a BIG part in the novel, so be ready to start salivating! In Manchester, as the book opens, she is preparing to host a get-together but it all goes rather pear shaped. She decides to lick her wounds by jetting off to Reckingen, Goms, in the Canton of Valais to stay with her godmother, Amelie, who runs a guest house in a traditional Alpine chalet.

She lands in Zurich and already finds herself lured by the chocolate in the city. The doors are already closing as she leaps onto the train bound for Brig, a pretzel from the chain of shops "Brezelkönig" in hand, and she literally falls on top of lovely Luke. They engage in flirty banter all the way to Brig, where they have to change trains. She is adamant, reaffirming to herself like a mantra, that she is in the country to get her head straight, not be wooed by a handsome man! Two weeks of self exploration, mountain air and the company of her godmother are all the elements she needs in her life right now.

But guess what! Serendipity plays her hand and lovely Luke re-enters her life!

Mina is soon immersed in cosy life in the mountains; she helps Amelie where she can in the chalet and begins to find her snow-sports legs. The array of cakes that Amelie serves up to her guests is quite mouthwatering - you can find a recipe for Solothurner Torte (Gateau from Solothurn) HERE or imagine getting your teeth into Basler Kirschenbrot Kuchen (Cherry-Bread-Cake from Basel). I am not even mentioning the savoury dishes! And chocolate features large too!

An unexpected event jettisons Mina into a different sphere and faced with huge change, she proves to be a young woman who is up for a challenge.

This is a truly heart warming story, set in the midst of Winter in the Swiss mountains. It makes for a delightful read and will transport you hook, line and sinker to a refreshingly snowy landscape.

This book is like a cosy warm hug or a hot cup of cocoa; perfect for the winter/festive season. I listened to the audiobook and enjoyed the narration. It was soothing, funny and uplifting. Although I find this type of book generally fairly predictable that is absolutely fine - its nice to know what to expect and means you get exactly what you want! I haven't read anything by this author before but would recommend The Little Swiss Ski Chalet.

This is a lovely story that allows you to suspend your belief for a short time, and wallow in some good feeling and the joy of someone achieving their dream.

You know exactly what you are going to get with this sort of book, but it doesn't matter, it's a lovely story. The narration was great apart from one little niggle- the narrator kept pronouncing the "T" in Moet, a small thing but a little irritating!

The writer conveys the crisp air and beautiful scenery of the mountains and I really felt that I could be there.

All in all - a curl up by a fire with a mug of Cocoa book!

The Little Swiss Ski Chalet - Julie Caplin
Narrated by Victoria Fox

I was given a copy of this book in exchange for a fair review thanks to HarperCollins UK Audio and Netgalley.

It’s time to pack your bags and head to the breathtaking, snow-covered peaks of the Swiss Alps for velvety hot chocolates, delicious cheeses and a gorgeous love story…
Food technician Mina has always believed that chocolate will solve everything – and it’s just what she needs when her latest relationship mishap goes viral!
So with her bags packed and a new determination to sort her life out, Minna decides to drown her sorrows with the best hot chocolate in the world at her godmother’s cosy Swiss chalet. Chocolate: yes. Romance: no. Until she has a run in on an Alpine train with a mysterious but oh-so-gorgeous stranger…

Mina receives an invite to this Swiss Alps and takes it as an opportunity to decide what she wants to do following her embarrassment. What is supposed to be a two week holiday could be the start of her new life.

The descriptions in this book were so vivid, I could imagine myself on the slopes. If you want a book to escape in then this is the book for you, just be warned - you may want to eat and bake cakes.

This is such a beautiful book to listen to on a wintery weekend, it was such an easy book to listen to and this was greatly helped by the soothing voice of Victoria Fox.

Rating 5/5

I listened to the audio version of The Little Swiss Ski Chalet. I loved the narrator and how she changed her voice for different characters. She even did other languages well. The story itself was just what i was expecting and needed: light, funny, romantic and a great setting. The characters were unique and each charming in their own way. I especially liked the flirty vibes between Mina and Luke.

Thanks to netgalley and Harper Collins UK Audio/ One More Chapter for the arc.

This is a feel-good as a feel-good should be. Romantic, but not too sweet, except for the delicious chocolate of course. Mina experiences all kinds of things during the two weeks with her godmother in Switzerland. The snow is piled up high and even more falls during her stay. It’s a book with a high winter content and that is really enjoyable. You go cross-country skiing and downhill skiing with Mina. Eat some cake in the Ski Chalet and learn more about the handsome Luke. I really liked that you learn something about Switzerland too. Because I did not know that the country has four official languages (German, French, Italian and Romansh), and therefore also several official names (German: die Schweiz, French: la Suisse, Italian: la Svizzera, Romansh: Svizra, Latin: Helvetia). Also, I never knew what the abbreviation CH stood for on the registration plates of Swiss cars, but I do now: Confœderatio Helvetica. Sure, not everything goes smoothly, but a feel-good wouldn't be a feel-good if there wasn't a nice ending to the book, right?

I alternated between the e-book and the audiobook. As someone who speaks German, I found the narrator's German accent a bit weird. Of course, it is nice to twist your voice slightly when an elderly gentleman says something, but I was occasionally quite irritated by the narrator's voice. That did not distract from the story, because I really enjoyed it.

Characters = 8 | Atmosphere = 9 | Writing Style = 9 | Plot = 8 | Intrigue = 9 | Logic = 8 | Enjoyment = 9 | Score 8.57 = 4*

The Little Swiss Ski Chalet by Julie Caplin 🎧

Before reading (or listening) to this book you must have within reach: coffee, chocolate, cheese, and bread. You will not make it though more than one chapter without these items.

This story is the perfect winter book. I immediately added Switzerland to my travel list. It sounds incredible and breathtaking. I’m lucky enough to live directly beside the Rocky Mountains so I truly appreciate a little ski town.

We meet Mina as she deals with a sudden and shocking life event. She quickly gathers herself up and takes a trip to visit her godmother who owns a small hotel in Switzerland. Mina is one of the best characters I’ve read in a while. She oozes charm and happiness. She embodies a positive outlook and you can’t help but smile while following her story.

If you like warm hearted stories full of romance, friendship, quirky characters and an amazing setting this is the book for you.

I can’t wait to read more of these Romantic Escapes books by Julie Caplin. Thank you to @netgalley and @onemorechapterhc for my audiobook! You can get your copy on January 30th!

🎿🏔🍫

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