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Chateau #2
Christmas at the Chateau
Life has gone a little bit downhill for Naomi Winters…
Ever since her ex-husband Ollie filed for a divorce last Christmas, Naomi is a self-confessed scrooge. She hates her job, has exactly zero hobbies, and on top of that she’s all alone this holiday season.
Spurred on by her best-friend Mia – who has invited her to spend Christmas at her snow-kissed Chateau in the Swiss Alps – she decides it’s time for change.
But, when she arrives, she’s shocked to see Mia’s big brother Gabriel. It’s been fifteen years since they last saw eachother, forcing her to face memories she’d rather forget.
As Naomi grapples with getting her life back on track, she throws herself into various festive activities, and she can’t seem to escape Gabriel this time…
Will he manage to thaw her icy heart, or is she on a downward slope to disappointment?
Escape to the Swiss Alps with this festive, feel-good novel! Full of warmth and romance, it’s perfect for fans of Lucy Coleman, Karen Swan and Katie Fforde.
Ever since her ex-husband Ollie filed for a divorce last Christmas, Naomi is a self-confessed scrooge. She hates her job, has exactly zero hobbies, and on top of that she’s all alone this holiday season.
Spurred on by her best-friend Mia – who has invited her to spend Christmas at her snow-kissed Chateau in the Swiss Alps – she decides it’s time for change.
But, when she arrives, she’s shocked to see Mia’s big brother Gabriel. It’s been fifteen years since they last saw eachother, forcing her to face memories she’d rather forget.
As Naomi grapples with getting her life back on track, she throws herself into various festive activities, and she can’t seem to escape Gabriel this time…
Will he manage to thaw her icy heart, or is she on a downward slope to disappointment?
Escape to the Swiss Alps with this festive, feel-good novel! Full of warmth and romance, it’s perfect for fans of Lucy Coleman, Karen Swan and Katie Fforde.
10 pages, Audiobook
Published October 12, 2023
169 people are currently reading
267 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
November 1, 2023
5 Beaming Stars!
Lovely! Lovely! Lovely!
"Christmas at the Chateau" by Annabel French is a must read for the holidays! The author does a wonderful job of capturing the essence of Christmas through descriptive details that created floating images in my mind. It was not hard to 'fall in deep interest' with every scene that seamlessly unfolded. The writing was effortless... it is a little more advanced than some of the typical romances I've encountered, and in stating such, I hope it entices you to take a chance on this author.
I connected with the characters as they were each humanized by the author. I felt the emotions that roamed unwelcomed in Naomi's mind and heart regarding her bitter divorce from Ollie. When she reconnected with a past love, Gabriel, her best friend's brother, I knew that hope for a new beginning was going to transpire for Naomi. A hope that as a reader, I really wanted to see blossom to fruition for the love interests.
It was a heartwarming journey that touched my heart. Personal growth was evident and enriched the plot.
The cover is absolutely beautiful! (At this time, I see that Goodreads still has the "final cover coming soon" but you can see the delightful version on NetGalley and Amazon. Trust me- it's chic and stunning!
I extend a warm thank you to Annabel French, NetGalley and Avon Books UK for granting me an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
As you can surmise, I truly enjoyed reading this book and I highly recommend it for your holiday reading list. The anticipated publication date is October 12, 2023.
Lovely! Lovely! Lovely!
"Christmas at the Chateau" by Annabel French is a must read for the holidays! The author does a wonderful job of capturing the essence of Christmas through descriptive details that created floating images in my mind. It was not hard to 'fall in deep interest' with every scene that seamlessly unfolded. The writing was effortless... it is a little more advanced than some of the typical romances I've encountered, and in stating such, I hope it entices you to take a chance on this author.
I connected with the characters as they were each humanized by the author. I felt the emotions that roamed unwelcomed in Naomi's mind and heart regarding her bitter divorce from Ollie. When she reconnected with a past love, Gabriel, her best friend's brother, I knew that hope for a new beginning was going to transpire for Naomi. A hope that as a reader, I really wanted to see blossom to fruition for the love interests.
It was a heartwarming journey that touched my heart. Personal growth was evident and enriched the plot.
The cover is absolutely beautiful! (At this time, I see that Goodreads still has the "final cover coming soon" but you can see the delightful version on NetGalley and Amazon. Trust me- it's chic and stunning!
I extend a warm thank you to Annabel French, NetGalley and Avon Books UK for granting me an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
As you can surmise, I truly enjoyed reading this book and I highly recommend it for your holiday reading list. The anticipated publication date is October 12, 2023.
October 6, 2023
Did you know that Annabel French is the penname that Katie Ginger uses when she writes escapist romantic fiction set in dreamy locations?! I was surprised to learn this!
I absolutely loved Summer at the Chateau and was looking forward to another armchair travel.
The female protagonist, Naomi Winters, is heading towards Christmas with a heavy heart. When she’s invited to Le Petit Chateau in Switzerland by her friend, she accepts, hoping that getting the hotel ready for visitors and opening day will keep her mind off her challenges. With days full of organizing, ski lessons and men vying for attention, Naomi’s Christmas outlook is beginning to improve.
You’ll have to read about how the magic of Christmas descended on one little Swiss alpine village and brought healing to a broken heart.
I loved the farting Alaskan Malamute! I was snorting aloud before realizing that it was the wee hours of the morning and I could potentially wake my husband. It more than made up for the anger I felt with numskull Ollie or the ‘let me put a firecracker under you’ Gabriel. Don’t get me wrong, I love it when characters get under my skin and French crafts great characters with great arcs.
This was a lovely addition to the series and I can’t wait for another installment.
I was gifted this copy by Avon Books UK and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
I absolutely loved Summer at the Chateau and was looking forward to another armchair travel.
The female protagonist, Naomi Winters, is heading towards Christmas with a heavy heart. When she’s invited to Le Petit Chateau in Switzerland by her friend, she accepts, hoping that getting the hotel ready for visitors and opening day will keep her mind off her challenges. With days full of organizing, ski lessons and men vying for attention, Naomi’s Christmas outlook is beginning to improve.
You’ll have to read about how the magic of Christmas descended on one little Swiss alpine village and brought healing to a broken heart.
I loved the farting Alaskan Malamute! I was snorting aloud before realizing that it was the wee hours of the morning and I could potentially wake my husband. It more than made up for the anger I felt with numskull Ollie or the ‘let me put a firecracker under you’ Gabriel. Don’t get me wrong, I love it when characters get under my skin and French crafts great characters with great arcs.
This was a lovely addition to the series and I can’t wait for another installment.
I was gifted this copy by Avon Books UK and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
September 7, 2023
I have never read a book by Annabel French before so was unsure what to expect but I absolutely loved it.
The story is all about Naomi Winters who has split up from her husband and is facing a lonely Christmas until her best friend Mia invites her to spend the season with her in the Swiss alps.
The setting was so magical and festive and I really felt like I was there even though it’s currently 27 degrees outside.
I loved all the characters apart from one(no spoilers) and loved the romance. Overall a fantastic romantic Christmas story which I would definitely recommend and I cannot wait to start reading Summer at the Chateau which I have just ordered.
Thanks to Netgalley, Avon books UK and Annabel French for an advanced copy in exchange for an unbiased and honest review.
The story is all about Naomi Winters who has split up from her husband and is facing a lonely Christmas until her best friend Mia invites her to spend the season with her in the Swiss alps.
The setting was so magical and festive and I really felt like I was there even though it’s currently 27 degrees outside.
I loved all the characters apart from one(no spoilers) and loved the romance. Overall a fantastic romantic Christmas story which I would definitely recommend and I cannot wait to start reading Summer at the Chateau which I have just ordered.
Thanks to Netgalley, Avon books UK and Annabel French for an advanced copy in exchange for an unbiased and honest review.
October 5, 2023
I received a free copy of, Christmas at the Chateau, by Annabel French, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book 2 of 2 in The Chateau series. Naomi Winter is feeling scrooge like, since her divorce, her bff Mia invites her to spend Christmas at her chateau in the Swiss Alps, of course. I really enjoyed this book, Naomi is a great character, it was wonderful to see her grow in this book, what a great journey she is on.
November 12, 2024
❤️ Blurb -
Life has gone a little bit downhill for Naomi Winters… Ever since her ex-husband Ollie filed for a divorce last Christmas, Naomi is a self-confessed scrooge. She hates her job, has exactly zero hobbies, and on top of that she’s all alone this holiday season. Spurred on by her best-friend Mia – who has invited her to spend Christmas at her snow-kissed Chateau in the Swiss Alps – she decides it’s time for change. But, when she arrives, she’s shocked to see Mia’s big brother Gabriel. It’s been fifteen years since they last saw eachother, forcing her to face memories she’d rather forget. As Naomi grapples with getting her life back on track, she throws herself into various festive activities, and she can’t seem to escape Gabriel this time… Will he manage to thaw her icy heart, or is she on a downward slope to disappointment? Escape to the Swiss Alps with this festive, feel-good novel! Full of warmth and romance, it’s perfect for fans of Lucy Coleman, Karen Swan and Katie Fforde.
💖 Review -
Christmas At The Chateau is the second book in the Chateau series. I loved this heartwarming and cosy festive read. It's the perfect book to curl up with during the festive season. The story was easy to follow, had good pacing and a great cast of characters. I loved Naomi's character and wanted her to have the happy ending that she deserved. Also the cover is absolutely beautiful. Overall, a brilliant novel that I highly recommend to other readers.
💝 Thank you to the author, Annabel French/ Katie Ginger for my copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Life has gone a little bit downhill for Naomi Winters… Ever since her ex-husband Ollie filed for a divorce last Christmas, Naomi is a self-confessed scrooge. She hates her job, has exactly zero hobbies, and on top of that she’s all alone this holiday season. Spurred on by her best-friend Mia – who has invited her to spend Christmas at her snow-kissed Chateau in the Swiss Alps – she decides it’s time for change. But, when she arrives, she’s shocked to see Mia’s big brother Gabriel. It’s been fifteen years since they last saw eachother, forcing her to face memories she’d rather forget. As Naomi grapples with getting her life back on track, she throws herself into various festive activities, and she can’t seem to escape Gabriel this time… Will he manage to thaw her icy heart, or is she on a downward slope to disappointment? Escape to the Swiss Alps with this festive, feel-good novel! Full of warmth and romance, it’s perfect for fans of Lucy Coleman, Karen Swan and Katie Fforde.
💖 Review -
Christmas At The Chateau is the second book in the Chateau series. I loved this heartwarming and cosy festive read. It's the perfect book to curl up with during the festive season. The story was easy to follow, had good pacing and a great cast of characters. I loved Naomi's character and wanted her to have the happy ending that she deserved. Also the cover is absolutely beautiful. Overall, a brilliant novel that I highly recommend to other readers.
💝 Thank you to the author, Annabel French/ Katie Ginger for my copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
November 26, 2024
I was looking forward to this one, but unfortunately, it didn't do much for me. Things just felt anticlimactic the entire way through. And I never felt like I was invested in the story. Some of the descriptions were well done and I loved the market, it just wasn't enough to save the story for me.
September 21, 2023
Christmas at the Chateau is a wonderful festive read. The story is about Naomi Winters, who is going through a divorce and is invited by her best friend Mia to visit her in the Swiss alps.
The chateau and location was so beautifully described, I felt like I was there. It's a small town and a lovely sense of community. It really made me feel festive.
It's the perfect read to curl up under a blanket with a hot chocolate this holiday season.
4.5 stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to review this book.
The chateau and location was so beautifully described, I felt like I was there. It's a small town and a lovely sense of community. It really made me feel festive.
It's the perfect read to curl up under a blanket with a hot chocolate this holiday season.
4.5 stars ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the chance to review this book.
December 4, 2024
O carte usurica, dar foarte draguta pentru citit in perioada aceasta din an :)
February 26, 2024
Such a lovely book. I really enjoyed this from Start to finish. I loved the characters Mia naomi and Gabrielle. I really wanted a happy ending for them all. Such an enjoyable book.
August 15, 2025
1.5 stars - A disappointing follow-on from the original “Château” novel. I listened to the audiobook and, at times, had to resist the urge to switch it off entirely. The main character manages to be both entitled and meddlesome, behaving in ways that would be questionable for a teenager, let alone a woman in her 30s with a supposedly respectable profession.
I downloaded this expecting a true sequel, only to discover a completely different story wearing the borrowed title of the first. Sometimes that can work; here, it just felt like the charm had been stripped out and replaced with something far flatter.
One neat trick for the author was setting the story in Switzerland, where everyone conveniently speaks English fluently.This neatly sidestepped the kind of language or cultural mishaps that might have added colour, depth, or at least a moment of tension, which is part of the charm of visiting a country different from your own.
As for the “twists,” they were about as surprising as snow in December. For example: "Who could possibly be making all this delicious food for breakfast?" This wasn’t just predictable—it was absurd. The protagonist appears to be the only guest in the entire château, yet somehow we’re meant to imagine a lavish buffet is being prepared each morning. It’s less quaint country hospitality, more wasteful farce.
Overall, the story and narration felt naïve and lacklustre. The repeated references to the main character’s job as a solicitor and her adoption background seemed to be wheeled out as blanket excuses for her poor attitude and interfering ways. Instead of adding complexity, it just made her harder to like.
Verdict: If you loved the first “Château” novel, prepare for a sequel that feels like a Christmas cracker with no snap, and no joke.
I downloaded this expecting a true sequel, only to discover a completely different story wearing the borrowed title of the first. Sometimes that can work; here, it just felt like the charm had been stripped out and replaced with something far flatter.
One neat trick for the author was setting the story in Switzerland, where everyone conveniently speaks English fluently.This neatly sidestepped the kind of language or cultural mishaps that might have added colour, depth, or at least a moment of tension, which is part of the charm of visiting a country different from your own.
As for the “twists,” they were about as surprising as snow in December. For example: "Who could possibly be making all this delicious food for breakfast?" This wasn’t just predictable—it was absurd. The protagonist appears to be the only guest in the entire château, yet somehow we’re meant to imagine a lavish buffet is being prepared each morning. It’s less quaint country hospitality, more wasteful farce.
Overall, the story and narration felt naïve and lacklustre. The repeated references to the main character’s job as a solicitor and her adoption background seemed to be wheeled out as blanket excuses for her poor attitude and interfering ways. Instead of adding complexity, it just made her harder to like.
Verdict: If you loved the first “Château” novel, prepare for a sequel that feels like a Christmas cracker with no snap, and no joke.
September 10, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Avon/HarperCollins Publishers for a copy of "Christmas at the Chateau" in exchange for my honest review.
Naomi Winters is going through a rather bitter divorce with her husband Ollie. At the solicitors office Ollie seems to want to be petty and asks for the majority of the contents of their home. Naomi's best friend Mia Mathis runs a chateau in Switzerland and insists that she spend the holidays with her. Naomi doesn't realize that Mia's brother Gabriel will also be there. Something happened between them in the past when he visited Mia at uni and it has never been spoken of.
There are some hilarious moments when Naomi decides to learn how to ski. The times she visits the Christmas Market you can almost smell the delicious food that Ms. French is describing and all the beautiful decorations.
Naomi is very insecure because she was given up for adoption as a child and she had lived her entire life with the fear that one day her wonderful and supportive adoptive parents will return her and not want her any more. She became obsessed with material things that she couldn't afford growing up. She had love but not a lot of money. Perhaps that is why she was with Ollie - because of the security he gave her financially. It never sounded like they were in love when she thought about him.
Helping Mia with the community Christmas gala helps Naomi realize what is important in life and what changes will make her happy. She realizes that corporate law has not been where her heart has been for a long time. A chance encounter at the Market gives her an idea of what will truly make her happy.
Naomi Winters is going through a rather bitter divorce with her husband Ollie. At the solicitors office Ollie seems to want to be petty and asks for the majority of the contents of their home. Naomi's best friend Mia Mathis runs a chateau in Switzerland and insists that she spend the holidays with her. Naomi doesn't realize that Mia's brother Gabriel will also be there. Something happened between them in the past when he visited Mia at uni and it has never been spoken of.
There are some hilarious moments when Naomi decides to learn how to ski. The times she visits the Christmas Market you can almost smell the delicious food that Ms. French is describing and all the beautiful decorations.
Naomi is very insecure because she was given up for adoption as a child and she had lived her entire life with the fear that one day her wonderful and supportive adoptive parents will return her and not want her any more. She became obsessed with material things that she couldn't afford growing up. She had love but not a lot of money. Perhaps that is why she was with Ollie - because of the security he gave her financially. It never sounded like they were in love when she thought about him.
Helping Mia with the community Christmas gala helps Naomi realize what is important in life and what changes will make her happy. She realizes that corporate law has not been where her heart has been for a long time. A chance encounter at the Market gives her an idea of what will truly make her happy.
September 17, 2023
I loved the second book in Annabel French's Chateau series as much as the first one! I admit, I started reading Christmas at the Chateau when it was twenty seven degrees celsius outside but the descriptions of the beautiful snow covered scenery in Switzerland had me imagining it clearly. And by the time I finished the book, the colder weather had returned and I was looking forward to cosy nights in with hot chocolate! 😂
Christmas at the Chateau follows Naomi Winters who is going through a tough divorce with her ex, causing her to lose her love of Christmas. However, rather than allow her to stay at home alone, Naomi's best friend Mia invites her to the Swiss Alps to stay in the large chateau she and her family have restored into a luxurious hotel. When she arrives, Naomi is surprised to discover Mia's brother Gabriel there too, and his presence brings back old feelings she thought she'd gotten over. Can she rediscover her happiness as well as her love for Christmas? 💕
This is such a lovely book, exactly the kind I need at Christmas! I liked not only Naomi and Gabriel's relationship development, but also seeing how close Naomi and Mia were - I enjoy strong friendships in books too! I also love small towns and the sense of community here was nice, especially at Christmas.
The descriptions of the scenery were beautiful and I could just picture the snowy mountains and trees, as well as the Christmas markets and all the incredible food and drink mentioned!
The perfect book to get lost in for a few hours and to get you feeling Christmassy! 🌲❄️
Thank you to Annabel French, Avon UK/Harper Collins UK, and Netgalley for allowing me to read an arc of this book. 💕
Christmas at the Chateau follows Naomi Winters who is going through a tough divorce with her ex, causing her to lose her love of Christmas. However, rather than allow her to stay at home alone, Naomi's best friend Mia invites her to the Swiss Alps to stay in the large chateau she and her family have restored into a luxurious hotel. When she arrives, Naomi is surprised to discover Mia's brother Gabriel there too, and his presence brings back old feelings she thought she'd gotten over. Can she rediscover her happiness as well as her love for Christmas? 💕
This is such a lovely book, exactly the kind I need at Christmas! I liked not only Naomi and Gabriel's relationship development, but also seeing how close Naomi and Mia were - I enjoy strong friendships in books too! I also love small towns and the sense of community here was nice, especially at Christmas.
The descriptions of the scenery were beautiful and I could just picture the snowy mountains and trees, as well as the Christmas markets and all the incredible food and drink mentioned!
The perfect book to get lost in for a few hours and to get you feeling Christmassy! 🌲❄️
Thank you to Annabel French, Avon UK/Harper Collins UK, and Netgalley for allowing me to read an arc of this book. 💕
January 27, 2025
Genre - Christmas romance
Emotional rating - 🥰🥰
Speed and ease to read - 🏃🏾♀️🏃🏾♀️🏃🏾♀️
Number of pages - 380
Publication Year - 2023
Makes you think about a bigger topic - No
Recommend the book - ✔️
▪️Synopsis
Ever since her ex-husband Ollie filed for a divorce last Christmas, Naomi is a self-confessed scrooge. She hates her job, has exactly zero hobbies, and on top of that she’s all alone this holiday season.
Spurred on by her best-friend Mia – who has invited her to spend Christmas at her snow-kissed Chateau in the Swiss Alps – she decides it’s time for change.
But, when she arrives, she’s shocked to see Mia’s gorgeous but brooding big brother, Gabriel working as the chef. It’s been fifteen years since they last saw each other.
As Naomi grapples with getting her life back on track, she throws herself into various festive activities, and she can’t seem to escape Gabriel this time…
▪️ How I found the book
It took me about one-third of the book before I started to enjoy this. I initially thought if I should make it a DNF. However it picked up pace and I had became invested in the characters. I wanted to see where the story would lead (even though it was obvious).
This follows Naomi who goes to visit her best friend, Mia, who owns a Chateau. Whilst there she meets Gabriel (Mia's brother) with whom she has a history. The story follows both of them coming to terms with the past and moving forward with the future.
Overall, it had the right amount of community, friendship, romance, growth of characters and tension. This was a lovely Christmas novel I'd recommend.
Emotional rating - 🥰🥰
Speed and ease to read - 🏃🏾♀️🏃🏾♀️🏃🏾♀️
Number of pages - 380
Publication Year - 2023
Makes you think about a bigger topic - No
Recommend the book - ✔️
▪️Synopsis
Ever since her ex-husband Ollie filed for a divorce last Christmas, Naomi is a self-confessed scrooge. She hates her job, has exactly zero hobbies, and on top of that she’s all alone this holiday season.
Spurred on by her best-friend Mia – who has invited her to spend Christmas at her snow-kissed Chateau in the Swiss Alps – she decides it’s time for change.
But, when she arrives, she’s shocked to see Mia’s gorgeous but brooding big brother, Gabriel working as the chef. It’s been fifteen years since they last saw each other.
As Naomi grapples with getting her life back on track, she throws herself into various festive activities, and she can’t seem to escape Gabriel this time…
▪️ How I found the book
It took me about one-third of the book before I started to enjoy this. I initially thought if I should make it a DNF. However it picked up pace and I had became invested in the characters. I wanted to see where the story would lead (even though it was obvious).
This follows Naomi who goes to visit her best friend, Mia, who owns a Chateau. Whilst there she meets Gabriel (Mia's brother) with whom she has a history. The story follows both of them coming to terms with the past and moving forward with the future.
Overall, it had the right amount of community, friendship, romance, growth of characters and tension. This was a lovely Christmas novel I'd recommend.
November 8, 2023
Hmm... There are a few things I liked about this book. I loved the setting, the Chalet, the Christmas market, the emphasis on community, supporting local business, looking out for one another... Realising that material comforts aren't all that matters, wanting to focus on what's really important, all those things are themes I appreciate in a book. I also love that Naomi was adopted. But there were also a few things I didn't love...
Firstly, the amount of times Naomi referred to her parents as her adoptive parents. I mean, it's important to her story, yes, and it obviously needs mentioning, but they are her parents. She's never met her birth parents. This is quite a thing for her, however, not enough to make an effort to find them. Mostly, adoptive parents are just parents. They are not birth parents, but they are parents. Also, the amount of children who are "given up" by their birth parents is miniscule. It does happen, yes, but it is extremely rare and in most cases, it's the involvement of authorities that leads to children going into care. Why Naomi, knowing absolutely nothing about her birth parents, believes they have just given her up because they didn't want to, I don't know.
Secondly, I hate if someone seems nice and then, because it is needed for the development of the story line, is suddenly written into a horrible character. It seems totally disingenuous. I wish instead of turning him into an awful person, they had just decided they were better off as friends or something. It makes no sense that a shy and kind person is a superficial womaniser with a trust fund...
Apart from that, I enjoyed the story, particularly Hans!
Firstly, the amount of times Naomi referred to her parents as her adoptive parents. I mean, it's important to her story, yes, and it obviously needs mentioning, but they are her parents. She's never met her birth parents. This is quite a thing for her, however, not enough to make an effort to find them. Mostly, adoptive parents are just parents. They are not birth parents, but they are parents. Also, the amount of children who are "given up" by their birth parents is miniscule. It does happen, yes, but it is extremely rare and in most cases, it's the involvement of authorities that leads to children going into care. Why Naomi, knowing absolutely nothing about her birth parents, believes they have just given her up because they didn't want to, I don't know.
Secondly, I hate if someone seems nice and then, because it is needed for the development of the story line, is suddenly written into a horrible character. It seems totally disingenuous. I wish instead of turning him into an awful person, they had just decided they were better off as friends or something. It makes no sense that a shy and kind person is a superficial womaniser with a trust fund...
Apart from that, I enjoyed the story, particularly Hans!
September 19, 2023
A beautifully written heartwarming romance that transports you right to the heart of the most magical of Christmas’s - a snow covered chalet, a lovely community and a gorgeous tummy flip worthy man. The Relatable characters, beautiful setting and romance combined with a dash of intrigue make you want to keep the pages turning. Exploring themes of self-discovery, forgiveness and second chances, the story is one we can all relate to and stays with you long after the last page.
The story itself is beautifully written, the vivid descriptions conjuring up a festive and magical atmosphere and make you feel you are there. The romantic element explores the theme of a second chance at first love. The mystery behind why the relationship failed first time round keeps the pages turning and although the eventual union is predictable the journey to get there is not with plenty of tummy tumbles and heart warming moments along the way. The characters themselves are brilliantly rendered and relatable and as such really draw you in.
All in all it the perfect Christmas read with romance, friendship, community spirit all wrapped up in the most perfect snowy setting. I absolutely loved every word - my only criticism is it’s too short - and I’d highly recommend it. It is a perfect piece of cosy Christmas romantic escapism, as comforting as a roaring fire on a freezing cold day and one not to be missed. If you enjoy reading Heidi Swain, Lucy Coleman, Karen Swan you will love this book!
The story itself is beautifully written, the vivid descriptions conjuring up a festive and magical atmosphere and make you feel you are there. The romantic element explores the theme of a second chance at first love. The mystery behind why the relationship failed first time round keeps the pages turning and although the eventual union is predictable the journey to get there is not with plenty of tummy tumbles and heart warming moments along the way. The characters themselves are brilliantly rendered and relatable and as such really draw you in.
All in all it the perfect Christmas read with romance, friendship, community spirit all wrapped up in the most perfect snowy setting. I absolutely loved every word - my only criticism is it’s too short - and I’d highly recommend it. It is a perfect piece of cosy Christmas romantic escapism, as comforting as a roaring fire on a freezing cold day and one not to be missed. If you enjoy reading Heidi Swain, Lucy Coleman, Karen Swan you will love this book!
December 20, 2023
Christmas at the Chateau by Annabel French
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Avon and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Life has gone a little bit downhill for Naomi Winters… Ever since her ex-husband Ollie filed for a divorce last Christmas, Naomi is a self-confessed scrooge. She hates her job, has exactly zero hobbies, and on top of that she’s all alone this holiday season. Spurred on by her best-friend Mia – who has invited her to spend Christmas at her snow-kissed Chateau in the Swiss Alps – she decides it’s time for change. But, when she arrives, she’s shocked to see Mia’s big brother Gabriel. It’s been fifteen years since they last saw each other, forcing her to face memories she’d rather forget. As Naomi grapples with getting her life back on track, she throws herself into various festive activities, and she can’t seem to escape Gabriel this time… Will he manage to thaw her icy heart, or is she on a downward slope to disappointment?
My Opinion
This is the second book in the Chateau series but can easily be read as a standalone. This had such a magical feeling about it as I read about the decorations around the chateau I was feeling more and more festive. Naomi has been invited to spend Christmas in the Swiss Alps with her friend, Mia, so this book has all of the winter feels. As you turn the pages, it was nice to see how Naomi grew as a character.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Avon and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Life has gone a little bit downhill for Naomi Winters… Ever since her ex-husband Ollie filed for a divorce last Christmas, Naomi is a self-confessed scrooge. She hates her job, has exactly zero hobbies, and on top of that she’s all alone this holiday season. Spurred on by her best-friend Mia – who has invited her to spend Christmas at her snow-kissed Chateau in the Swiss Alps – she decides it’s time for change. But, when she arrives, she’s shocked to see Mia’s big brother Gabriel. It’s been fifteen years since they last saw each other, forcing her to face memories she’d rather forget. As Naomi grapples with getting her life back on track, she throws herself into various festive activities, and she can’t seem to escape Gabriel this time… Will he manage to thaw her icy heart, or is she on a downward slope to disappointment?
My Opinion
This is the second book in the Chateau series but can easily be read as a standalone. This had such a magical feeling about it as I read about the decorations around the chateau I was feeling more and more festive. Naomi has been invited to spend Christmas in the Swiss Alps with her friend, Mia, so this book has all of the winter feels. As you turn the pages, it was nice to see how Naomi grew as a character.
Rating 4/5
December 24, 2023
I hadn’t intentionally saved this as my last Christmas book, but I’m glad that I did. The setting, the story and the characters left me with a warm feeling of festive joy and happy anticipation for the forthcoming celebrations.
Naomi is understandably feeling bitter and low as she has been hit with the end of her marriage and the realisation that her job gives her zero satisfaction. Couple that with the fact that she has been so invested in work and marriage that everything else in her life has been put on the backburner, she has very little enthusiasm for the Christmas celebrations.
Thankfully, Naomi’s best friend, Mia, is like a fairy godmother and presents her with an escape route from her unsatisfying life. A chance to visit the Swiss Alps and enjoy the magic of an Alpine Christmas. Determined to enjoy her visit she finds that she has to avoid contact with Mia’s brother, Gabriel, and ignore her memories from fifteen years earlier.
There was nothing that I didn’t love about this book. The characters were beautifully imagined and fully developed. The setting was easy to imagine, with descriptions that had me picturing a lovely Alpine, snow-covered village, and an enchanting Chateau decorated for Christmas. Filled with relatable characters and a huge helping of romance, this was a gorgeous note to end my reading on. I can thoroughly recommend it to you as I can still feel the warmth even now that I am reviewing it.
Just gorgeous!
Naomi is understandably feeling bitter and low as she has been hit with the end of her marriage and the realisation that her job gives her zero satisfaction. Couple that with the fact that she has been so invested in work and marriage that everything else in her life has been put on the backburner, she has very little enthusiasm for the Christmas celebrations.
Thankfully, Naomi’s best friend, Mia, is like a fairy godmother and presents her with an escape route from her unsatisfying life. A chance to visit the Swiss Alps and enjoy the magic of an Alpine Christmas. Determined to enjoy her visit she finds that she has to avoid contact with Mia’s brother, Gabriel, and ignore her memories from fifteen years earlier.
There was nothing that I didn’t love about this book. The characters were beautifully imagined and fully developed. The setting was easy to imagine, with descriptions that had me picturing a lovely Alpine, snow-covered village, and an enchanting Chateau decorated for Christmas. Filled with relatable characters and a huge helping of romance, this was a gorgeous note to end my reading on. I can thoroughly recommend it to you as I can still feel the warmth even now that I am reviewing it.
Just gorgeous!
October 24, 2023
Oh, this was so beautiful.
It's an absolutely stunning book perfect to add to your Christmas holiday reading list.
The writing was exceptional as the author captured the scenes beautifully. The descriptions of the Swiss Alps effortlessly entered my imagination, creating a wonderful image of the perfect getaway for Naomi.
The characters were relevant, so it was easy to relate to their individual journeys. I loved the bond Naomi and Mia have. It's certainly a friendship that will last forever. Naomi has definitely had a rough time recently, and she wasn't looking for romance.. until she bumped into a certain someone from the past. I was really invested in their story as a couple, and I'm thrilled they both eventually got their happy ending.
Although the story is based a lot around friendship, family, and other relationships, it also includes a lot of personal growth and self reflection, which was refreshing to read.
This heartwarming festive read is a must-have for your tbr, and despite reading it in October, I'm now already feeling in the mood for cosy winter nights and the Christmas season that is fast approaching.
A huge thankyou to Annabel French, Avon Books, and of course Netgalley for allowing me a copy in exchange for my honest review.
It's an absolutely stunning book perfect to add to your Christmas holiday reading list.
The writing was exceptional as the author captured the scenes beautifully. The descriptions of the Swiss Alps effortlessly entered my imagination, creating a wonderful image of the perfect getaway for Naomi.
The characters were relevant, so it was easy to relate to their individual journeys. I loved the bond Naomi and Mia have. It's certainly a friendship that will last forever. Naomi has definitely had a rough time recently, and she wasn't looking for romance.. until she bumped into a certain someone from the past. I was really invested in their story as a couple, and I'm thrilled they both eventually got their happy ending.
Although the story is based a lot around friendship, family, and other relationships, it also includes a lot of personal growth and self reflection, which was refreshing to read.
This heartwarming festive read is a must-have for your tbr, and despite reading it in October, I'm now already feeling in the mood for cosy winter nights and the Christmas season that is fast approaching.
A huge thankyou to Annabel French, Avon Books, and of course Netgalley for allowing me a copy in exchange for my honest review.
October 3, 2023
An absolutely joyous read!
Naomi needs a break so accepts her friend Mia's invitation to stay in the holiday chateau she is managing for her father in Switzerland. (Having visited Switzerland in the summer, I wouldn't need asking twice to visit in the winter.) Once there, she takes stock of her marriage breakdown.
Despite not being a fan of Christmas, she helps workaholic Mia decorate, sourcing everything from the local area. To her shock she finds Mia's brother Gabriel is also involved at the chateau. He has fallen out with their father, leaving Mia as the go-between. However, we soon realise that something happened between Naomi and Gabriel in the past.
I loved the characters. They are real, with faults and quirks, struggling to make good decisions but sometimes getting it very wrong, despite the best of intentions.
Definitely a perfect book for a Christmassy vibe.
Now all I need is an invitation to a Swiss chateau for Christmas!
(Read as an ARC but views are my own.)
Naomi needs a break so accepts her friend Mia's invitation to stay in the holiday chateau she is managing for her father in Switzerland. (Having visited Switzerland in the summer, I wouldn't need asking twice to visit in the winter.) Once there, she takes stock of her marriage breakdown.
Despite not being a fan of Christmas, she helps workaholic Mia decorate, sourcing everything from the local area. To her shock she finds Mia's brother Gabriel is also involved at the chateau. He has fallen out with their father, leaving Mia as the go-between. However, we soon realise that something happened between Naomi and Gabriel in the past.
I loved the characters. They are real, with faults and quirks, struggling to make good decisions but sometimes getting it very wrong, despite the best of intentions.
Definitely a perfect book for a Christmassy vibe.
Now all I need is an invitation to a Swiss chateau for Christmas!
(Read as an ARC but views are my own.)
October 7, 2023
Naomi is struggling as her divorce is about to happen, a year after her husband asked for one. She is not sure what to do when her friend Mia invites her to spend some time at the Chateau that she is getting ready for it's reopening after being refurbished. She loves it there, with fantastic scenery, friendly locals - until she meets Mia's brother Gabriel, with whom she has history.
There is the potential romance between Naomi and Gabriel, although there are many issues to overcome. Naomi is re-evaluating her life, which being at the Chateau gives her time to do, whilst helping her friend Mia and rekindling her relationship with Gabriel. I've not been lucky enough to try skiing, but the book really brought the location to life for me. Add in the Christmas theme and this is an ideal book to bring the season to life.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
There is the potential romance between Naomi and Gabriel, although there are many issues to overcome. Naomi is re-evaluating her life, which being at the Chateau gives her time to do, whilst helping her friend Mia and rekindling her relationship with Gabriel. I've not been lucky enough to try skiing, but the book really brought the location to life for me. Add in the Christmas theme and this is an ideal book to bring the season to life.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
October 14, 2023
Set just before Christmas, Naomi has just agreed the terms of her divorce from her husband. It is twelve months since he dropped the bomb shell that he wanted a divorce. Right after they had put up the Christmas tree. She hates her job as a corporate lawyer and has no hobbies. So just before Christmas, home alone with a glass of wine and a tub of ice cream, she receives a phone call from her friend Mia. Mia invites her to the Chateau, a premium hotel that she has been getting ready to reopen for her family business. Rather than spend Christmas alone, Naomi gets on a plane to Switzerland. Where she meets Gabriel, Mia's brother whom she has not seen for fifteen years. We go on her journey to work out what her future is going to look like. With skiing and lots of Christmas activities will Santa deliver her a Christmas to remember or to forget. A pleasant undemanding Christmas romance..
November 18, 2023
Christmas at the Chateau is the second book in The Chateau Series. It can be read as a standalone book. This author was new to me and a pleasant surprise.
Naomi was blindsided at Christmas a year ago by her husband asking for a divorce. This year Christmas, the divorce is finalizing. Her job has become non-stop work and little appreciation or satisfaction. She is in a real slump, when her best friend, Mia, invites her to come to the Swiss Chateau she decides to take the time for herself and catch up with Mia.
Once in Switzerland, with stunning beauty all around her, she is shocked to find Mia's older brother, Gabriel, is also there. She and Gabriel have a history that even Mia doesn't know about, and it didn't end well. Will Mia and Naomi get time to enjoy catching up while Mia has a Grand Opening to organize? Will Naomi and Gabriel be able to work things out with each other? What will Naomi learn about herself with her extra time to slow down and think?
Naomi was blindsided at Christmas a year ago by her husband asking for a divorce. This year Christmas, the divorce is finalizing. Her job has become non-stop work and little appreciation or satisfaction. She is in a real slump, when her best friend, Mia, invites her to come to the Swiss Chateau she decides to take the time for herself and catch up with Mia.
Once in Switzerland, with stunning beauty all around her, she is shocked to find Mia's older brother, Gabriel, is also there. She and Gabriel have a history that even Mia doesn't know about, and it didn't end well. Will Mia and Naomi get time to enjoy catching up while Mia has a Grand Opening to organize? Will Naomi and Gabriel be able to work things out with each other? What will Naomi learn about herself with her extra time to slow down and think?
August 14, 2024
In Christmas at the Chateau, which is book 2 of the Chateau Series, Annabel French introduces a different set of characters and a new setting. Naomi Winters is a London-based corporate lawyer that is finalizing her divorce from her husband Ollie, at his request. She needs a break and her college-friend Mia invites her to their family's Le Petit Chateau in Switzerland. Her surroundings are exquisite and she tries to make herself useful as they prepare for a big Christmas gala.
She re-meets Mia’s brooding brother Gabriel with whom she had a brief encounter during their college days fifteen years, earlier. Will the flame be re-lit? It seems unlikely because he seems to be in a very dark place. Or will she focus on her career and fly solo for a while after her unexpected divorce? Pick up the second book in this series and see while skiing, eating great dishes and enjoying the snowy landscapes of Switzerland!
She re-meets Mia’s brooding brother Gabriel with whom she had a brief encounter during their college days fifteen years, earlier. Will the flame be re-lit? It seems unlikely because he seems to be in a very dark place. Or will she focus on her career and fly solo for a while after her unexpected divorce? Pick up the second book in this series and see while skiing, eating great dishes and enjoying the snowy landscapes of Switzerland!
October 24, 2023
I absolutely adore festive reads and this trip to the Swiss Alps was just perfection. I hadn't read the previous book in the Chateau series, but this didn't matter, as this could be read as a stand alone.
The setting of the book was just Christmas perfection. The snowy Alps was the ideal backdrop and time spent within the Chateau sounded so perfect and idyllic. The Christmas markets sounded so good with a real sense of community and all of the food and drink mentioned made my mouth water.
I loved the storyline of the book and it offered Naomi the perfect escape when she needed it the most. I liked her character development and the realisation of what she really wants and the epilogue at the end of the book was everything I wanted for her, it truly was perfect!
This was the ideal festive read, that had me excited for Christmas.
The setting of the book was just Christmas perfection. The snowy Alps was the ideal backdrop and time spent within the Chateau sounded so perfect and idyllic. The Christmas markets sounded so good with a real sense of community and all of the food and drink mentioned made my mouth water.
I loved the storyline of the book and it offered Naomi the perfect escape when she needed it the most. I liked her character development and the realisation of what she really wants and the epilogue at the end of the book was everything I wanted for her, it truly was perfect!
This was the ideal festive read, that had me excited for Christmas.
March 21, 2025
Naomi is in a rut after her divorce from Ollie, she is invited to a Swiss Chateu to spend Christmas with her friend Mia and her brother Gabriel.
Reluctantly Naomi decides to go even though she hates Christmas as she divorced the year before at Christmas. Naomi settles in and starts to enjoy herself as she begins to help decorate the Chateau for Christmas. She meets locals at markets and makes friends. Underlying is family a dispute with Mia, Gabriel and their father.
Gabriel the Chateu chef his dog Hans and Naomi rekindle a one nighter that had had many years before with Gabriel departing with unresolved questions they both struggled with.
A lovely story, great narration in describing the scenery, chateu and decorations.
This was my second Chateau in the Annabel French series and now I am off to.listen to Number 3.
Reluctantly Naomi decides to go even though she hates Christmas as she divorced the year before at Christmas. Naomi settles in and starts to enjoy herself as she begins to help decorate the Chateau for Christmas. She meets locals at markets and makes friends. Underlying is family a dispute with Mia, Gabriel and their father.
Gabriel the Chateu chef his dog Hans and Naomi rekindle a one nighter that had had many years before with Gabriel departing with unresolved questions they both struggled with.
A lovely story, great narration in describing the scenery, chateu and decorations.
This was my second Chateau in the Annabel French series and now I am off to.listen to Number 3.
October 5, 2023
I am hooked on books about Christmas and even better when the setting of the story is Switzerland!
Naomi was not looking forward to Christmas this year since last year her husband Ollie filed for divorce. Her life had fallen apart for her. Her best friend Mia wants to help her, so she invites Naomi to come and spend the holiday in her family Chateau in the Swiss Alps.
The author has done a splendid job of making everything feel like I am right there in the story.
This book is one where a fluffy blanket and a cup of hot cocoa makes the reading time just slip away.
This is the second book in the Chateau Series.
Thank you NetGalley, Annabel French and Avon Books UK. This is my personal review.
Naomi was not looking forward to Christmas this year since last year her husband Ollie filed for divorce. Her life had fallen apart for her. Her best friend Mia wants to help her, so she invites Naomi to come and spend the holiday in her family Chateau in the Swiss Alps.
The author has done a splendid job of making everything feel like I am right there in the story.
This book is one where a fluffy blanket and a cup of hot cocoa makes the reading time just slip away.
This is the second book in the Chateau Series.
Thank you NetGalley, Annabel French and Avon Books UK. This is my personal review.
December 5, 2023
Thank you NetGalley for allowing met o receive this book for an honest review.
When I saw the word "Chateau" I was hooked. It made me feel warm and cozy.
I felt bad for Noami Winters, her husband filed for divorce, she has no live and no hobbies.
Her best friend Mia invited her to spend Christmas with her at a Chateau in the Swiss Alps to try and get her to move on. When Noami arrives at the Chateau see sees Mia's brother Gabriel. She hasn't seen him in years.
But Noami decides to try and get into the holiday spirit by joining in the holiday festivities but everywhere she goes theres Gabriel.
Will Gabriel help her forget her problems and move on with her life or will she be disappointed again?
When I saw the word "Chateau" I was hooked. It made me feel warm and cozy.
I felt bad for Noami Winters, her husband filed for divorce, she has no live and no hobbies.
Her best friend Mia invited her to spend Christmas with her at a Chateau in the Swiss Alps to try and get her to move on. When Noami arrives at the Chateau see sees Mia's brother Gabriel. She hasn't seen him in years.
But Noami decides to try and get into the holiday spirit by joining in the holiday festivities but everywhere she goes theres Gabriel.
Will Gabriel help her forget her problems and move on with her life or will she be disappointed again?
December 11, 2023
Christmas at the Chateau 🎄
This was a super cute romance that was very centered around Christmas and helping her friend remake her chateau while tentatively exploring the past connection she has with her best friend’s brother! Honestly the most disappointing part of this book for me was that there was no spice given that there was so much of an inner monologue from the main character focusing on that she had sex with the MMC in college, and then he disappeared the next morning but this certainly will appeal to a lot of readers! Moreso, it was not advertised as a spicy novel so this disappointment is on me. The romance was a slow burn which I adore and I absolutely loved the jealousy from the MMC!
This was a super cute romance that was very centered around Christmas and helping her friend remake her chateau while tentatively exploring the past connection she has with her best friend’s brother! Honestly the most disappointing part of this book for me was that there was no spice given that there was so much of an inner monologue from the main character focusing on that she had sex with the MMC in college, and then he disappeared the next morning but this certainly will appeal to a lot of readers! Moreso, it was not advertised as a spicy novel so this disappointment is on me. The romance was a slow burn which I adore and I absolutely loved the jealousy from the MMC!
Read
December 27, 2024As I was spending Christmas alone, I grabbed a couple of Christmassy books, hoping they would help my festive cheer. This had all the ingredients, exotic European location, a recently single woman, her best friend, a chateau and an old flame. A recipe for seasonal delight.
I enjoyed the descriptions of the chateau, the village the Christmas market, and the townsfolk. The relationship between Naomi and Mia seemed genuine and the brooding Gabriel in the background added a sense of intrigue.
Naomi is adopted and over time her constant reflections about not being wanted,and rejected by her birth parents, were in my opinion repeated too frequently. I found her less engaging. I finished the book but as a seasonal pick up it hadn’t done the job for me.
I enjoyed the descriptions of the chateau, the village the Christmas market, and the townsfolk. The relationship between Naomi and Mia seemed genuine and the brooding Gabriel in the background added a sense of intrigue.
Naomi is adopted and over time her constant reflections about not being wanted,and rejected by her birth parents, were in my opinion repeated too frequently. I found her less engaging. I finished the book but as a seasonal pick up it hadn’t done the job for me.
September 20, 2023
Naomi has been invited to spend Christmas with her best friend Mia at the family chateau in Switzerland. She is going through a divorce and needs a bit of downtime.
Annabel French has definitely captured the essence of Christmas in her second book.
The Christmas markets, the food and drink, and of course all that snow. It just makes me want to visit, although I'll give the skiing a miss.
Decisions to be made, a family fued to get over and make up and not forgetting a Christmas romance.
Perfect read for curling up on the sofa with a blanket and a decadent hot chocolate. This is definitely a winner.
Thanks to Netgalley and Avon Books for the ARC in return for an honest review.
Annabel French has definitely captured the essence of Christmas in her second book.
The Christmas markets, the food and drink, and of course all that snow. It just makes me want to visit, although I'll give the skiing a miss.
Decisions to be made, a family fued to get over and make up and not forgetting a Christmas romance.
Perfect read for curling up on the sofa with a blanket and a decadent hot chocolate. This is definitely a winner.
Thanks to Netgalley and Avon Books for the ARC in return for an honest review.
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