The French Escape

A fantastic chick lit read! I enjoyed every moment of this book, though more romance would be nice. The setting in France is absolutely beautiful, it sure makes you want to go to visit a village just like the one Flick and her mom discovered. Looking forward to reading more from this author! Tres bien!
#netgalley #thefrenchescape

They say that the path to happiness is normally about enjoying the journey and not the destination and normally I would agree. However, with the title The French Escape ringing in our ears It is no surprise that our destination in this story is a beloved character all of its own and that actually venues are of paramount importance in this tale. The Chateau D’Enchantement, as its name suggests, has more than a sprinkling of Gallic charm and it begins to weave its Disneyesque magic upon our imaginations from the moment we arrive. We are not the only ones to fall under its spell, it sets to work on our grieving heroine Flic and her Mother as soon as the threads of life that have brought them there finally unravel and drop them at its iron gates. The fairy-tale enchantment moulds a mystery that swirls and unfurls around them both as we read deeper into their story. ‘In a forest in a wood ... at the window stood’ goes the refrain – who stands at the window indeed? And is the forest friend or foe, a soulful sanctuary or sinister place? This will have a large bearing on the adventure contained within our story.
As I stepped further into the life of the village and its community I enjoyed falling deeper and deeper down the rabbit hole of the romance of the place. My head was spinning with the sights and sounds of Brittany and the French way of life, if I turned one way I could ‘faire la bise’ and if I turned another I could enjoy baguettes and ficelles, all washed down with delicious French café au lait. In my reverie I could hear the echo of the refrain of a song by Enrique Iglesias – in his mother tongue he reminds us that “we can run, we can hide but we can’t escape his love.” Many are running away in this story, but the writer teaches us that we cannot run so far that we run out of love’s reach. Will Flic still be able to feel the love of her departed father? will others in the community heal and find their heart’s desires of a happier future? Jess, Pete, Brenda, Julia, Phillippe and Nate – all are searching for something better for someone else they care about if not for themselves, even the future survival of the house itself is under question. If only we could all have a fairy godmother waiting in the wings to conjure up the answer to all our woes.
But Flic is a feisty gal who has a hero living on the inside of her. Through the mirror of her story this reader found hope enough to be her own hero too. When we follow the yellow brick road – we meet difficult times, difficult choices and it is so easy to develop a hole in the bottom of our bag of confidence and see our courage trickling away behind us. Flic taught me that after the storm we can find comfort in the strength we have within, that we can choose love over fear and continue onward, making choices for ourselves. It turns out that there may be something even better than a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow – the gumption to stand on our own two feet and reach for what matters to us, to dare to risk it all to gain it all, and to really have a life well lived.
Coffee Cup Conversations and Teapot Talking Points:
If you and I dear reader were sitting down together today, perhaps in a cosy corner of the Chateau D’Enchantement itself or the Café Ange, having both read the book, here are a few of the points we could mull over together, whilst trying out one of Jess’s delicious creations of course.

Have you ever stayed in a wonderful French venue?
I was once invited by a school friend to stay in the heart of the French countryside in gite. It was one of the most romantic and idyllic holidays that I have ever spent. In the day before the internet and mobile phones we were cut off from all communications. How my poor mum back home coped without hearing from me at all I don’t know. We enjoyed relaxing in the sunshine and cycling our way to collect a baguette and croissant or two. I really enjoyed the beautiful French farm house with its shuttered windows and faded bricks. What a treat. Nowadays it is even easier to stay in an authentically French home – I am definitely going to try out Air BnB for a future trip.

Have you ever built what you thought was a sanctuary, a comfort-zone which actually turned out to be a fence, keeping you from the outside world?
I could really relate to the theme of the comfort zone – it really is like a ‘protective blanket’ and there is most definitely in my experience a time and a place for this. However, it is important to let people see over our fences and into our gardens from time to time. The best thing about my family is that they accept my need for time alone as an introverted type – but that they also push me to believe in myself when I feel the urge to retreat out of a sense of fear or intimidation. Self-compassion is the key I believe – and little baby steps – but choosing to surround ourselves with love helps to conquer the power of fear and frees us up to make the choices that we truly want to make in our day-to-day lives.

If it was ‘French Week’ on the Great British Bake Off, what would you bake?
The first ever episode of GBBO that I saw was when the contestants were lined up and showing their best homemade loaf of bread to Paul Hollywood – master baker! So, no pressure then. They had had to plait the bread and make sure that it was all presented in an even shape and depth. Firstly, I couldn’t believe the difference that could be had amongst 8 loaves of bread and secondly, I really felt for the poor blighters as they had to claim ownership of their loaves and receive the comments attached. I think that I would really like to learn to make a croissant – a low fat one of course – I can’t imagine how wonderful it would be to present your very own confection for breakfast. The whole process looks really relaxing to me too. Maybe there is a class out there where we can learn a few skills before sending off our applications for the show!

Every now and then a book will attract me purely on cover, and possibly title and without really paying it any closer attention I end up with it on my kindle. This is one such book, the author has bene on my radar for a while as one I should try reading, so when this gorgeous looking book popped up I just couldn't resist.

And I'm delighted that my impulsiveness paid off, as this was a truly enjoyable story, and I will be adding the rest of this authors books to my wish list!

I tried my hardest to feel sorry for Flick, after all in recent months her father has died, and her groom ran off shortly after saying I do, but then her mum persuades her to take a trip to France and the next thing we know she is heavily involved with a Chateau, and a show bunch of friendly people in a small Breton village.

While Flick is trying to get her head around everything, I was far more intrigued by Nate, who lives in a cottage in the grounds of the chateau and is clearly hiding something. It was his story that had me wondering what was going on, and reading on to find out more.

I loved Flick though, and her mother Brenda and really enjoyed seeing how they were trying to get used to the French way of life. I really loved all the villagers too, they were so friendly and welcoming, each with their own quirks.


This is pure escapist reading and when reading it on a tube, I had no idea where I was most of the time, I must have gone past 5 or 6 stops without even noticing - very thankful I didn't miss mine - but I was so engrossed in how everything was going to resolve itself, that I was lost to the real world.

Charming and thoroughly enjoyable, I am so pleased I took the chance on this book and definitely will be reading more from the author.

Thank you to Netgalley and Bombshell Books for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

This book follows the story of Flick and her mum, Brenda, as they embark on what Flick thinks is a holiday to France, but turns out to be so much more.

Set in a beautiful chateau in Brittany, this book makes you want to pack up your car and head off to this gorgeous part of France and sit outside a typical French cafe, sipping wine whilst eating cheese and bread! You can’t help but like all the characters in this book and can only hope that if you ever end up living in a chateau in France, that the villagers will be just like these! Despite the story focussing on Flick and her story, I couldn’t help but be captivated by Nate and wondered what he was so desperately trying to hide.

I couldn’t put this book down. I can’t praise the author enough for writing such a lovely, heartfelt story and creating such wonderful characters. I can’t wait to read more! A definite 5 stars from me.

This book is definitely an escape. Curl up for a few hours and escape from life. This is well written chick lit. There are plenty of characters. The descriptions of the scenery are beautiful and make it so easy to visualise and the descriptions of the wonderful food had my mouth watering.

Thank you to Netgalley for my copy.

Amusing chick lit book with messages

I thoroughly enjoyed "The French Escape" by Suzie Tullett. The plot sped right along and the characters each exhibited their own human quirks and enthusiasms. What a nice fantasy, just right for my escapist reading tendencies!

I have to start by saying what a cover crush I have on this book. It is simply gorgeous and so eye catching. It's certainly one that jumps out and shouts 'READ ME'. So of course that's exactly what I did.

You have to love a story which is set somewhere as fabulous as France, especially when it's rural France of which is very much brought to life. Something else I love is a great renovation project. I love watching television shows where you see the transformations as they are happening. I fell head over heels with the chateau and had so many images in my head through all the fabulous descriptions. I loved the whole idea of someone leaving a loved one a chateau, so if anyone wants to leave me one, well just so you know, I'd be up for it.

There is a great cast of characters in this novel of which I pretty much adored them all. They have their strengths and all bring something unique to the table. Flick and Nate had to be my favourites though. Both trying to move on with their lives though they both have issues holding them back. You can see the spark from them meeting and I loved seeing that grow and the will they won't they theme of whether they will get together or not. It makes for a highly entertaining read that I literally could not get enough of.

The French Escape is the perfect feel good read. It transports you to an idyllic setting that I didn't want to leave. A fabulously fun and uplifting read. Loved it.

What better book to take on my recent trip to Paris, as you can see from this Book Selfie.

This is a delish read. From the gorgeous cover, probably the prettiest I’ve seen this year, to the stylish writing that encompasses all things French.

Flick has had a terrible year following the death of her father and desertion by her husband just after the wedding. When her mother, Brenda, suggests a stay in a Brittany Chateau she’s not all that impressed. She’s even more confused when she turns up to find…. well you’ll have to read that part for yourself. There’s Nate, around every corner. Just what is he doing living in a cottage on the estate? There’s a mystery here, one she’s determined to solve.

This is beautifully written tribute to all things French. The writing is well-crafted with lots of humorous moments. There’s lots going on and plenty of vignettes of French villag

I can't write too much about this book without giving away the plot!
It was a charming story that left me wanting to jump on the next ferry to France and have a little bit of French life for myself.
The romance was not the sole focus of the book which is somethign I liked. It focused on Flick's journey and how she is embraced by the community around her. I'm envious of the lifestyle that this character ends up with.

I loved this book! The characters were delightful, the setting was dreamy and the story perfectly paced, with some surprises.

Having read the author’s two previous books I knew I would be in for a treat with this one and I jumped at the chance to get my hands on a copy!

The characters in the story are great, very well developed and I loved their interaction. The setting is perfect for the story, the book has a great pace and the flow is spot on, you can completely immerse yourself in the story.

This book is a complete delight to read – the author has a brilliant writing style that I find addictive. The French Escape was a complete pleasure to read!

It is five stars from me, a brilliant story, fantastic characters and the perfect setting – I loved it!! Very highly recommended!!

A charming read .. if you ever dream of upping sticks and relocating to France, this novel will have you straight online to investigate properties for sale!

Since the death of her father followed by her new husband abandoning her only a few hours into their marriage, Flick has - understandably - become something of a recluse. Despairing of ever getting her out of the shell she has retreated into, her mother Brenda arranges a holiday in France for them both. Only when they get there, it's not quite the luxurious accommodation that Flick was hoping for! When a friendly local dog introduces itself to Flick, she in turn does the same to it's owner, only he's a bit taciturn and doesn't even offer his name in return.

This is a bright, fun story in a picturesque setting with a range of characters in a small but friendly community. With plenty going on to absorb and enjoy, this is a quick read and a very pleasurable one. With lots of little details about life in France, it certainly makes life there sound very appealing! It's a lovely story with a few ups and downs and guaranteed to leave you with a smile on your face. Definitely a feel-good read!

My thanks to Bombshell Books for my copy and the invitation to take part in this blog tour. This is my honest. original and unbiased review.

I just loved The French Escape!
I deeply enjoyed reading how Flick and Nate grew up. Each had their baggage, and the path they took to acknowledge this, let their past go and become ready for a new opportunity was lovely.
I would like to know more about the other people in town, how they got to be where they are and what the future has for them.

Poor Flick, she's on a road trip with her snoring mother Brenda, and her late father's ashes in France - destination: unknown.
When the satnav signals their arrival, Flick tries to locate the location of their hotel, only to find they're staying in a neglected chateau in their own sleeping bags. To say the trip is intended for Flick to recover from the traumatic year she's had after being jilted at her wedding, it isn't selling itself straight away.
As they get to know the local villagers and the mysterious neighbour, Nate, the chateau starts to appeal more to Flick, especially as it's renovated and the former glory starts to shine through.
Secrets unfold and lives are changed as Flick and Nate both try to learn to live and love again.
With warm humour and beautifully enticing description of Breton life and the enchanting woodland setting, The French Escape is just what it says, a perfect dose of escapism that will make you laugh and cry as the pages turn.
Plot, pace and characters are sharp and well written, and I love the developments in the book, both with the chateau and the people themselves. I also adore Brenda, she's such a...mum, and I want to give her a hug.
Also, just to give a quick shout out to this cover as I absolutely adore it!
A hugely well deserved 5* to Tullett.

As summer is well and truly on its way out I was looking for a story that would whisk me away and The French Escape was exactly what I was looking for!

The story moves at a lovely pace and was a delight to read as secrets come to light along the way to keep things interesting. I enjoyed seeing Flick begin to heal after a very turbulent time back home and then seeing her connection with Nate begin to grow was extra special.

There are plenty of quirky and loveable characters along with a setting that will leave you dreaming of your own French escape! I loved the friendships that were formed and of course a wonderful hint of romance too. With new beginnings a big theme I was hoping for a happy ever after for the characters.

The French Escape is a wonderful easy going and light hearted story with a beautiful charm that will leave you smiling!

Nate.

Nate loves his life living in the cottage on the grounds of the abandoned chateau but that is about to be put in jeopardy…

Can Nate and Flick ever learn to come to terms with the past and find love again?

My Thoughts:

Flick and her Mum Brenda, are on their way to France. Flick has no idea where she is going as Mum has made all the plans, and Flick also has no idea what Mum has planned until they arrive at a slightly run down chateau. Nate is a neighbour who seems to be a little moody, maybe secretive even… Flick has her own problems and Mum thinks this is the break her daughter needs to help her get her life sorted.

I love Brenda, the way she keeps her daughter in the dark about various things is great, I can see she has Flick’s best interests at heart. Brenda is concerned that Flick has lost her spark and is becoming lifeless and lost, as the story unfolds I got to discover why. As much as I had sympathy for Flick, I had to agree with Brenda, Flick needed a kick up the backside to get her life going again.

Now throw into the mysterious neighbour Nate. Well he has some interesting skeletons that he tried to keep hidden, though not hidden from everyone it seems. Yet another character I really liked, he has an interesting story and one that I didn’t quite expect.

As well as these three, there are also some other characters from the surrounding area that have an interest in the chateau and its new visitors, there reasons why soon become obvious. As do various other developments that the author has cleverly woven in.

This is a really great read and I soon found myself caught up in this story, the descriptions of the area were vivid, I could easily imagine the chateau in its surroundings. As much as I liked Flick’s story I found it was Nate’s story that really caught my interest, a little bit different and also sad.

This is a story about starting over, moving on from the past, making the decision to try things and also there is a bit of romance. The story has a great mix of personalities that compliment the main cast and also each other as well. It is an uplifting story that is captivating, idyllic and one that I would definitely recommend

Merveilleux! Ou merveilleuse! Magnifique!
Heureux pour toujours!

The title says it perfectly this was a wonderful little escape to France! Filled with fun, family, friendship, food and amour!

Flick has had a rough year, she lost her father, and her groom, the man of her dreams, pulled a runner hours after the vows were said.... I have to admit that “pulled a runner“ is one of my absolute favorite Britishisms, it is just so perfect! SO Flick is not a happy camper, her mother Brenda is tired of her moping around, so she takes her on a surprise trip to France.... not only does she take her to France, but she also has purchased her a château where she can start a new.... mom, are you reading this? Her daughter was down so she took her to France and bought her a château, just saying.....

This French Village was filled with a charming cast of characters and a hot elusive Nate... Maybe the chateau is in shambles and Nate is hiding something, but that added some mystery to the story.... and if you are a fan of HGTV like me, you will enjoy the renovation project.... and if you are a fan of food like me, you will enjoy all the French cuisine.... and if you are a fan of a book full of fantastic characters, like me you will definitely like this book! this really is a simple story of will they won’t they and will she won’t she... but I can guarantee you will be keeping your fingers crossed that Flick and Nate do!

This is an engaging escape that will put a smile on your face... nothing better than a good old-fashioned; and they all lived happily ever after!💕

*** many thanks to Bombshell Books for my copy of this book ***

After a crazy week, picking up THE FRENCH ESCAPE by Suzie Tullett was just what the doctor ordered and I highly recommend it to anyone who loves France, a little romance, and a lot of heart in their stories.

When Flick's mum decides that she needs to help her daughter stop hiding from the world, Flick finds herself driving into rural France with her mum and a car full of their possessions for an adventure. Flick is the first one to admit that she had shut down, what with the loss of her dad and the fact that her husband did a runner a few hours after the wedding, it certainly has not been the best year. So maybe some rest and relaxation in the countryside with her mum will be just what she needs. But she didn't factor in an abandoned chateau that needs a lot of work and a handsome man living on the grounds with his own baggage to work through.

With plenty of ups and downs, romance and friendship, the incomparable beauty of rural France, and a DIY project that is truly unique, THE FRENCH ESCAPE by Suzie Tullett is amazing in every possible way. The personalities, the settings and everything else in between hit just the right mark across the board and I couldn't put this book down.

THE FRENCH ESCAPE by Suzie Tullett is a must-read for contemporary fiction fans everywhere and I cannot wait to read more from this author.

You know when you get something perfect for that moment? All cute and eye catchy that just calls you to grab it and hide it in the closet from everyone and read and read until you finish it? And just when you open the covers you get swayed by the story too! That was the case with me when I've got this book... I stayed late in the night until I finished it and almost overslept for work. Setting, storyline, characters...everything is magnifique!

I really enjoyed this little escape into France. The main characters, Flick and Nate, were very well written and easily likable to the reader. I enjoyed following their journey and overcoming the obstacles from their past and present. I will definitely be checking out what other books this author writes.
I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book provided by NetGalley.