Sometimes life hands, you lemons, and what you really need is an escape from reality. Some people are lucky enough to do it in foreign countries. This is just what happens in a French Country Escape.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC.

Siblings Sasha and Freddie make the decision to move to France because apparently living there is cheaper. They buy two cottages on the grounds of the majestic Châteaux du Cheval, owned by Ingrid and Peter Chevalier, who, despite the last name, are British too.

Soon, we have a cavalcade of new characters arriving - Ingrid and Peter's daughter Penny who is escaping a toxic relationship, Colette, Alice, Lucas and Jean-Paul, plus there are Eliza, Maddie and Jade. Most of them are young people so romantic entanglements ensue, which I will not bother going into but they are cute enough. There are also properties renovated, events in the château managed and a secret about the past discovered.

As almost a first, Brexit is being mentioned several times but no mention made of how all these people can emigrate to France so easily now.

Personally, I thought there were too many characters and too much going on. I got tired just from reading about the preparations for the wedding dinner in the Orangerie!

If you love fluffy escapist romances with plenty of people and dogs, this is for you. It's a quick, easy holiday read for anyone harbouring romantic notions of living in France and eating baguettes all day long.

3.25 stars

This is a beautifully told, heartwarming story with a multi-generation cast of characters whose lives are entwined. The setting in rural France is described wonderfully and transports the reader to the grounds of the chateau. The older characters are a sense of wisdom and family, The younger characters have new beginnings, friendships and light romance. It was a pleasure to read.

This is the first book I have read by this author and it won’t be my last.

What a sweet and charming story. We begin by following siblings Sasha and Freddie on their move from England to Château du Cheval in Brittany, France. Slowly, a vast array of characters are introduced, all connected through the Château.
I enjoyed this story, and particularly loved how all the characters’ lives ended up intertwining as the story progressed. The vivid imagery and warmth of the story made me feel I was in the French countryside along with the characters. I found it a great palate cleanser after some intense and action packed reads.
It is a story about second chances, taking risks, and learning to do what makes you happy. I cannot describe this book in any way except cosy and comforting. It was simply a wholesome and delightful read.

4 🌟
Having read another of Jennifer Bohnet's books, I was looking forward to another, especially being set in France again! Once again, I got caught up in the idyllic French countryside, feeling like I'd moved there and was part of the story myself. I liked the variety of characters, who gradually become intertwined and who support each other through everything. There was such a community, laid back, supportive vibe. I would really enjoy another book with these same characters and following them develop their businesses, relationships and friendships too.

I have just discovered this author and really enjoy her books. She manages to give you warm, engaging characters and stories with lovely settings. Would recommend - many thanks

This is simply delightful. The author has created a wonderful story with delightful,and engaging characters. One couple have purchased and renovated a chateau and sell cottages to a brother and sister who are trying to develop meaningful lives in a different setting. Other characters join the cast and their interactions all contribute to a sense of community in this fabulous story.

JB’s writing is very evocative and I totally felt that I was in France enjoying the different settings that she has created so well. I really liked her characters - they felt real and for the most part likeable and interesting enough to engage my empathy.

Highly recommend this one. 5 star read.

On a warm Saturday afternoon I got lost in this lovely book. Strangers coming together to reshape their lives in France to form friendships and changes to their lives makes you want to do the same. Set in a charming location these characters bring baggage but find the past always brings you to the future. Highly recommend

What’s a great book. I love finding a new author and then finding a great back catalogue. This was a great book, lots of lovely scenery, great food and friendships and romance. I loved all the story we interwoven into each other through the various generations.
Thank you NetGalley for this arc in exchange of an honest review.