All she wants in life… is to be a mom. All he wants in life… is for his two young children to have a loving mom…
Newly divorced and still struggling with her pregnancy losses and failed marriage, Angela Suttonleaves L.A. to return to her hometown Grainau, Germany where she assists her Aunt Terese in running
the family bakery. One day, the famous Hollywood actor, Mason Glade, whom Angela has had a major
crush on, enters the bakery. Angela can’t believe her eyes. What is he doing in her sleepy Alpine
village? Is he shooting a movie? What Angela does know is that Mason has two young children with
his estranged, alcoholic wife, Camila. Has fate brought Angela and Mason together in the same village?
Would Mason be interested in someone like her? Could they possibly have a future together?
Mason Glade is a simple man who wants a simple life with a warm, loving wife and a mother for
his two children. Sure, he’s a famous Hollywood actor and well-loved, but he’s tired of his estranged,
alcoholic wife, Camila, being plastered on every tabloid magazine. It’s embarrassing for him, but
mostly for his two young kids whom they share together. When Camila enters rehab, Mason decides he
needs a break and has to get away, somewhere far. So, he packs up his kids and their nanny and heads
to Grainau, Germany, a small village in the Bavarian alps. There he meets a beautiful German girl,
Angela, who works at her aunt’s bakery. He’s smitten with her and so are his kids.
He sees how great Angela is with them. Slowly, he’s falling for her. Will he divorce Camila and pursue
A sweet contemporary romance taking you to Angela’s small hometown of Grainau, Germany with its quaint shops and picturesque village in the Bavarian Alps. Angela met Mason there…both vulnerable and looking for love…for different reasons.
Angela was newly divorced and heart stricken with a miscarriage. Helping out at her Aunt’s bakery back in her hometown seemed to calm her mind and provide a distraction until she saw Mason. She couldn’t believe her eyes, he’s an actor she recognized from Los Angeles, where she just left. Mason, with his two young kids were spending the summer in Germany while his wife, Camilla, was in rehab for alcoholism, and escaping the public chaos of his troubled marriage. As doubt consumed his future he found solace in Angela’s friendship and her instant relationship with his kids. Being in such a beautiful place with the gorgeous chalet backdrop made the ease of their friendship quickly develop into more.
Despite the sweet summer memories he shared with Angela, Mason was forced with a dilemma between protecting his children, honoring his vows and to give Camilla one final chance. Will he choose moral obligation or let his heart choose his “found family”.
My Thoughts: I enjoyed this novel as it shared bits and pieces of such a quaint town intertwined with Angela’s relationship with her Oma and Opa. I learned a few things about Germany, a few words and appreciated the reference to The Sound of Music, one of my all time favorite musicals.
3.5/4 stars My rating is solely based on how the narrative advanced prematurely to conclusions without enough supporting evidence for me, a few things under explored. That being said Michele Davenport-Dutton, an Indie author, on her debut novel delivered an impressive debut read. It’s definitely a comfort read and nostalgic. It’s a novel of generational prose with hope, new beginnings and how the chemistry of opposites changes the plot. It was an engaging and heartfelt read and I can’t wait to read her next! Thank you Author Michele Davenport-Dutton for this chance to read and review for you.
First off, a BIG thank you to Michele for giving me the opportunity to read this beautiful story! 🙏 This book took me on such an emotional journey and, in many ways, felt so relatable. It gives hope for a second chance at love, reminds us to never give up, and shows that even through life’s struggles, we have to keep going and hold on to hope. This story is truly inspiring and completely filled my heart! 💕✨
Michele tells the story of Angela and Mason. This book is full of trauma, grief, drama and love. I don't want to spoil it for anyone interested by revealing too much. I will put a trigger warning for cheating. That being said I did enjoy the book. Thank you, @michele.d.dutton.author for reaching out and allowing me to read your book.
One Alpen Day is a delightful, easy to read romance. While the, “big city boy meets small town girl”, is often seen in romance novels this book offers a unique vantage point.
The story takes place in a small German village nestled in The Alps. The author does a great job of describing village life. She also explains a number of German traditions which I loved.
If you are looking for a sweet romance set in a beautiful place you are sure to love One Alpen Day!
3.5. This is a sweet story. The outcome is predictable but I still enjoyed reading. All the characters were good decent people and I enjoyed the depiction of family.
The descriptions of Germany were lovely and I enjoyed learning more about German food and culture as I was reading. As well as learning a few German words.
Parts of the story were a bit simple but it did not detract from the experience. I think as the author writes more stories her style will refine and become even more sophisticated.
I look forward to seeing what other works this author will produce.
A few months ago, I had recommended Viola Shipman's latest novel to Michele Davenport-Dutton. At the time, I didn't realize how fitting that would be. Now that I've read One Alpen Day, I can easily recommend it to fans of Viola Shipman and other similar authors.
One Alpen Day is a sweet story about romance, motherhood, and family. There is a lot of positive energy throughout and it's easy to care about Angela and Mason and to want things to work for both of them, as well as the two sweet little kids. It's also an armchair adventure in Germany, as I've never been there. The town it takes place in, Grainau, seems really beautiful and friendly. I'm sure I'd spend lots of time in the bakery where Angela works with her aunt Terese. There were a lot of surprises throughout, as well as moments that made me laugh out loud.
I did have some concerns though. This novel could have used another round of editing or proofreading. There were a bunch of consistency and timing errors that sometimes took me out of the story. I also found it strange that Mason was best known for Western movies. I haven't known of any Western movies really making an actor rank up there with George Clooney. (I had similar concerns over Emma's taste in movies in The Rom-Commers, so maybe I am missing something by not being as in touch with the movie scene as I used to be.)
Overall, this was an enjoyable and cozy read that I enjoyed getting absorbed in. I hope Michele will continue to write uplifting novels like this one. A delightful debut!
One Alpen Day was such a sweet and heartwarming read. From the moment I started reading, I couldn’t put this book down. Set in the charming and scenic Garmisch / Grainau area of Germany, the story follows Angela as she returns home after heartbreak and the devastating loss of two miscarriages, hoping to heal and find peace. While there, she unexpectedly finds a connection with Mason, a Hollywood actor searching for a quiet place for his family.
Mason is a devoted father doing his best to raise his children on his own while his wife struggles with alcohol issues, and seeing his love and dedication to his kids added such an emotional and heartfelt layer to the story.
I enjoyed the cozy bakery setting, the small-town charm, and the emotional journey of healing and second chances. The relationship between Angela and Mason’s children added so much heart and tenderness, making the story even more special. This book also gave me all the cozy, emotional vibes of a Lifetime movie, which made it such a comforting and engaging read.
If you enjoy emotional romances with beautiful settings and found-family vibes, this is definitely one to add to your TBR. I would absolutely read more written by this author. 💗📖✨
Thank you, Michele, for this gifted copy. This review reflects my honest thoughts and opinions. 📘💕
This was such a sweet, emotional romance with all the small-town cozy vibes! Set in the beautiful Bavarian Alps, this story follows Angela, a woman trying to rebuild her life after heartbreak and pregnancy loss, and Mason, a famous Hollywood actor searching for peace and stability for his children.
I really enjoyed the contrast between Mason’s chaotic Hollywood life and the quiet warmth of Grainau, Germany. The bakery setting added such a comforting touch, and watching Angela and Mason slowly fall for each other felt genuine and heartfelt. Mason’s devotion to his children made him incredibly lovable, and Angela’s journey through grief and healing gave the story emotional depth.
The storyline did feel a little rushed at times, but it kept me invested and rooting for their happily ever after. If you enjoy emotional romances, small-town settings, single-parent storylines, and stories about second chances and healing, this one is definitely worth picking up.
He felt accepted and loved. He finally felt worthy of love. Her love.
All that glitters isn’t gold. All that glitters is Emerald green.
A sweet and heartwarming story. Once I started reading I could not put it down. I really loved the scenic and charming German town of Garmisch/Grainau, the culture and the food. Angela has returned home after two heartbreaking miscarriages and a broken marriage. She meets Mason, a good looking Hollywood actor when he walks into her aunt’s bakery. Mason a father of two is raising his children while his wife is once again in rehab for alcohol addiction. A story of second chances, motherhood, family. An emotional journey of healing as the relationship between Angela and Mason develops. This was a cozy read on a rainy and stormy day.
We all know and love those movies taking place in a small town with characters dealing with personal problems that find each other and love blooms. That’s exactly the premise of “One Alpen Day”, Angela moved back home after getting divorced and losing 2 pregnancies while Mason needed to take his kids away from their mother.
He steps into the bakery she works at with her aunt and that’s how their story begins, day by day they get closer and the kids get really attached with Angela who is so different than their mother.
I really enjoyed their story and it was emotional and a perfect read for when life is busy, I read it in one sitting and maybe I would have wanted more pages.
It’s a story about family, motherhood - you will feel sad and happy for Aurora and her road to her dream come true… and of course, romance. It has beautiful descriptions of the small town and over all a good read I recommend when you want some easy read.
Thank you Michele for sending me a copy of your book. It’s such a cute and sweet story. Angela moves back to her hometown and finds love with Mason. Second chances and happy endings what more could you ask for, what a great book. 3.5-4 ⭐️.
Angela Sutton, recently divorced and grieving her pregnancy losses, returns to her hometown of Grainau, Germany, to help her aunt run a bakery. Unexpectedly, she encounters Hollywood actor Mason Glade, who seeks solace from his troubled marriage with his estranged wife, Camila, who struggles with alcoholism. Mason desires a loving partner and mother for his two young children. As he spends time with Angela, he is enchanted by her warmth and kindness.
If you follow my page, you know I don't usually read romance, but when the author reached out to me, I found we shared similar backgrounds. Plus, the cover was just so beautiful that I figured this might lean more towards women's fiction, a genre I enjoy occasionally. Thank you so much for the gifted copy of your book, Michele!
The story follows Angela on her heartbreaking return home, and it truly is an emotional journey about finding love in the most unexpected places. I could really feel Angela's sadness and dread, though I wished the characters had been a bit stronger. At times, they seemed a little too juvenile, but I suppose that’s just part of the experience of love. Love makes us crazy! Angela is humble, kind, and very family-oriented, while Mason is nice but could have shown more dedication to resolving his personal issues before diving into a new relationship. I couldn’t help but adore the little dachshund named Daschel mentioned in the story. I love books that include pets!
The main reason I don't often read romance is that the plots tend to be predictable—you can usually see everything coming. I struggled a bit with Mason’s character because, in my view, marriage is about sticking together for better or worse, and I didn’t like that he let himself fall in love with someone else while still married. I understand that his wife was battling addiction, which is truly a sickness that needed his support, but if this were my husband, it would break my heart. While I get that nothing lasts forever, marriage should always take priority. But that’s just my perspective.
That said, the story was well-written, and I appreciated how the author infused her own memories and experiences into the narrative, keeping her loved ones alive through her words. The vivid descriptions of the setting made it easy to visualize, especially the mouthwatering German food and baked goods. Reading this brought back fun memories for me, considering I grew up next to Germany and am familiar with their customs and cuisine. The mentions of kohlrabi and Kinder brought back a wave of '90s nostalgia!
Overall, this was a lovely, easy-going tale of love, second chances, and happy endings. The settings are beautifully crafted and evoke a picture-perfect Germany. This read will likely resonate with many readers, as it feels like you've journeyed alongside Angela. So, get your passport ready and join Angela, Terese, and Mason on their adventure! The only thing I wish is that the characters had a bit more depth. I suppose growing up in a military family and being married into the military has shaped my preference for strong, complex characters! Ha!
Thank you, Michelle, for the gifted printed copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
4.25 The perfect winter read with a great take on a small town that felt refreshing, cozy, and desirable to visit (inspired by real locations). Very uplifting with a going-home journey of healing, fresh pastries, and morning coffee at the base of the German Alps' snowy mountains with its Bavarian enchantment. Loved her deeply by hurt desire for family and motherhood, the pain of the steps that led her there, and that the famous actor actually just wanted a quiet family life. It was such a cozy and great escape (for me) in these -31 Chicago temperatures. I could picture a mountain outside the window, and I wished I could own my own bakery. It's very cinematic in some chapters. The boat scene towards the end is delightful and stays in our minds.
📍 Small-town Alps setting 🥐 bakery vibes 💔 second chances + healing This one felt like a quiet, cozy escape to the Alps with just enough emotion to keep you fully invested. Is it predictable? Yes. Did I still enjoy the ride? Also yes. It’s the kind of story you pick up when you want something heartfelt, comforting, and rooted in the idea that love can show up again even after everything falls apart. Perfect for: ✔️ small-town romance lovers ✔️ “starting over” stories ✔️ Hallmark-but-with-heart vibes Thank you for the gifted copy 💜
In 'One Alpen Day' there is a marital atmosphere, and Angela wish serious to have her own baby, but miscarriage obstructs her heartfelt dream twice. Diligent, kindhearted and intensely lovely, Angela thinks of a life within the clear limits of marital affairs. Interested to live the life happily and peacefully, she readily forms a healthy relationship with her family man husband, Nick Sutton.
Her life takes a turning point right after returning to Germany. When life has taken a sharp dip, she consciously immerses herself in the accepted bakery work alongside Aunt Terese, Angela couldn't believe seeing a Hollywood movie star Mason Glade, overthere at Germany and that too in a very small village bakery. Slowly, Mason couldn't resist her charm and starts to see her regularly for joyful company with his kids Alec and Carly, he being a professional actor with a loving family, but not his life-partner Camila, heavily alcoholic and unfamilial altogether. His strong disinterest in his wife and the new love towards Angela draws him to a chaotic point of no return. Their unexpected encounter, base of development, blossoms into lifeful romance and strong desire.
On the sudden arrival of Camila from rehab, Angela is surprised and feels the dream of a new love life disappearing in the darkness of despair. As a committed lover, and conscious of her motherly desire, she must tackle this expected obstacle as she daringly embraces the pressure of heartbreak, separation and disliking from an unhappy soul Camila. Angela must seek the inner strength to lead life with confidence, face the twists of her life plans and guide ambition through the tragic phases of a developing marital world after her feelings test her patience she has built up for years.
A impresive story of hearty romance, marital bliss, and the inspiring quality to fulfill the lost or broken hope. It is a book of an individual and a specific longing, embraced deep from human nature, during times of separation, heartbreak, personal failure and happiness. It is a splendid tale about a dejected character's decision to frame her own picture, fulfilling promises to womanhood of life. An emphatic story of family and unity, and an unmissable novel of a persistent married woman and the man who gifts her a precious life.
One Alpen Day by Michele Davenport Dutton This story starts out with an intro of sorts about the locations where the story takes place. Garmisch, Germany where Angela had grown up. Also follows her life while in California. Angela was raised in Germany but family left when she was six to live in CA. Visits to the family Love how author gives you the German word and then tells you what it means or describes food or garment in detail. Such a picturesque location and I have seen pictures on FB via the authors pages of the shops in the area. Story starts out with Angela and she's back in Germany after divorcing her spouse Nick. She had two miscarriages with him and the doctor stated it was his low sperm count. A child is all Nick ever wanted. She works at her relatives bakery. Love that she's not given up on life, she gets money from the ex and still she wants to work. Love the bakery shop and so many delectables are highlighted. Love the community, and you meet a few of the locals, especially the neighbors next door. Angela tends to her vegetable garden and her neighbor has a flower garden. They swap food for flowers. Angela uses the flowers on the tables at the bakery shop. She is content with her life and her dog keeps her company. She does most things via her bike, the location is self contained, everything you need is there. Story also follows Mason. He's a big movie star that Angela knows about. He frequents the shop and even brings children in once he gets to know them better. Story also goes back in time to when Angela was married to Nick and what caused Mason to come to Germany. Love that she wants to not only help guide them around the area but that he wants to spend time with her. She really takes to the children and wishes they were hers. Shop is so memorialized with events from the area of the centuries. Love hearing about all of them. Mason and the children have to leave to return to the USA and Angela finds out yes she is pregnant... She is strong but so many thing can happen...Love that this is really a love story of her grandparents, in the author’s own words and memories. Such touching story and one that will stay with me. First time author for me and can't wait to read more of her works. Adult situations. Descriptions are so detailed, twists and turns, unpredictable, love story. One of my top ten for this year out of 300 books.
One Alpen Day is a heartwarming and tender story set against the picturesque backdrop of Grainau, Germany. The novel captures the essence of second chances, healing, and the unexpected ways life can intertwine two seemingly different worlds.
Angela Sutton, freshly heartbroken from her failed marriage and struggling with the grief of pregnancy loss, returns to her small Alpine hometown seeking solace. Her journey back to her roots, helping run her aunt’s bakery, is the perfect setup for personal rediscovery. Enter Mason Glade, a Hollywood star with a tumultuous personal life, and his two young children who long for the warmth of a loving mother. Their meeting feels like fate, and from the moment their paths cross, the sparks of possibility begin to fly.
The story’s greatest strength is its emotional depth. Angela’s pain is palpable, and her journey toward self-acceptance is both relatable and inspiring. Mason, too, is a complex character, struggling to balance his celebrity status, his children’s needs, and the fallout of his troubled marriage. The chemistry between Angela and Mason unfolds naturally, with the idyllic Alpine setting adding a layer of magic to their evolving connection.
Grainau itself is a character in the story—an idyllic, snow-dusted town that serves as the perfect backdrop for Angela and Mason’s journey. Davenport-Dutton’s descriptions of the bakery’s warmth and the charm of small-town life make you feel like you’re right there, inhaling the scent of fresh bread and pastries.
While the premise might sound like a classic romance, the novel stands out for its focus on family, healing, and the idea that love can mend even the deepest wounds. Angela’s relationship with Mason’s children is beautifully written, showing the tenderness and patience it takes to build a blended family.
One Alpen Day is a comforting read for anyone who believes in second chances and the magic of unexpected love. It’s perfect for curling up on a winter evening with a cup of tea and letting yourself be swept away by the charm of Grainau and the promise of a brighter future.
Back where life moves at a gentler pace, Angela begins again. After enduring a divorce and heartbreaking miscarriages, she relocates to the Bavarian Alps to help her aunt run the family bakery following her uncle’s death. Meanwhile, Hollywood movie star Mason is seeking refuge from the spotlight — and from a troubled, alcohol-fueled marriage — by taking his two children on a quiet vacation to Germany.
When Mason steps into Angela’s aunt’s bakery, he has no idea his life is about to change. Angela longs to become a mother; Mason longs for a devoted partner and a nurturing presence for his children. Will life’s complexities stand in their way, or have they stumbled upon a once-in-a-lifetime love built on acceptance, understanding, and fulfillment?
First, I want to thank Michele for reaching out and trusting me with an honest review of her work. Writing and publishing a book is an incredible accomplishment, and that cover is absolutely top-tier.
This is ultimately a simple story with a happy ending. The characters feel sincere and layered, and the German influence is strong throughout. The cultural elements are thoughtfully woven into the narrative, giving the setting a vivid sense of place.
My main critique lies in the simplicity of the writing style. At times, the detailed explanations of German food and traditions pulled me out of the story. Personally, I would have preferred a glossary outlining wedding customs and traditional dishes, allowing the narrative to flow more naturally. Alternatively, incorporating these explanations more seamlessly into character dialogue would have felt less disruptive.
I tend to gravitate toward more complex plots and deeply intricate character arcs, and for me, this story didn’t fully reach that level. However, that doesn’t take away from its warmth and charm. If you enjoy heartfelt romances with strong cultural elements and satisfying endings, this is definitely worth picking up.
The story takes place in a quaint alpine village, Grainau & centres Angela, who is coping with a difficult divorce and the trauma of multiple miscarriages. She moved back to her hometown to distract herself from her misery and works in a family bakery alongside her aunt. One fine Alpine day, she is surprised to find famous Hollywood actor, Mason Glade in her bakery. She soon learns he is visiting with his children and their nanny to take a break from his high-profile life and his estranged wife, Camila, who is currently in rehab struggling with addiction.Mason is instantly charmed by Angela's kind disposition and Angela by Mason's unexpected humility and the bond he forms with his children. Their budding romance leads them longing for a future together, but their happiness is abruptly interrupted by the return of Mason's estranged wife, Camila. Having recovered from her rehab early, Camila pleads for a second chance to prove she can be a better mother. Torn between his new connection with Angela and the lingering sott corner he holds for his past love, Mason ultimately agrees to reconcile with Camila for the sake of their family. When Mason shares the news, Angela is devastated, yet a part of her had always known this was coming. As they prepare to go their separate ways, a miracle is quietly brewing; one that neither of them could have ever foreseen..One that ensures that there is so much more to their stories.. If this piqued your interest, read One Alpen Day to know more..
Summary: Angelas recently moved back to her hometown in Grainau Germany from L.A. after going through a series of miscarriages and divorce. She came back to help her aunt run the family bakery and this is where she meets Mason. Mason is an A-list actor from Malibu. They end up hitting it off and Angela comes to adore Mason and his 2 children. However, Mason is married to an alcoholic, dead-beat mother and socialite, who’s still in L.A. in a rehab facility. The story comes to a head the last 60 pages of whether Mason will pursue Angela and move to Germany or give his wife one more chance.
Review: I was gifted this book in exchange for a review. The author also informed me prior to reading some of her own personal stories are intertwined throughout, like the town, lingerie store, pe**s warmer (idk if I can say that word on Goodreads), tractor accidents, and more. The story itself was predictable, but it’s a quick read/palette cleaner. I think there could have been more character development, it felt too surface level for me. Some of the deeper/important moments were written out point blank without a solid lead up, and they felt out of place sometime. I also do not enjoy stories regarding cheating or books with religious undertone. The story itself was cute and easy to read, and I felt transported back to Germany. It was like a Hallmark movie in book form. For these reasons I give the book a 3.
Second chances and happy endings work well together.
One Alpen Day- Michelle Davenport-Dutton ⭐️⭐️⭐️3/5
If you’re looking for a quick second chance romance that’s not too deep, this book will appeal to you. This is Michelle Davenport-Dutton’s debut novel. It’s set in a beautiful small German town near the Alps.
Synopsis- Angela Sutton has moved back home from California to Grainau, Germany. She’s newly divorced and is happy to help her Aunt Terese run the family bakery while she gets back on her feet. She never expected to see an actor, let alone someone as handsome and famous as Mason Glade walk in. They hit it off and Angela gets to know him and his two children. But his life is complicated to say the least. He is currently unhappily married and he and his wife have major issues. Will he divorce his wife and pursue Angela, or will he give his marriage one last chance?
My thoughts - I’ve been to a small town in Germany and I did feel transported back there. While the story was pretty predictable, it was still enjoyable for those looking for a quick read. I liked the back stories on both of the characters and the way they came to meet each other. I did feel that there could have been a little more depth and development to the relationship between Amanda and Mason. Overall it was a nice story with a happy ending. Thank you Michelle for sharing your book with me.
One Alpen Day by Michele Davenport-Dutton is a wonderful fiction about a woman who moves back to a small town in Germany with her Aunt who has just recently lost her husband and needs help to run the bakery. I loved that this author took personal experiences and incorporated these into her book, you can tell by her writing that she lived it. I loved Angela as our FMC and Mason who is our MMC. Angela is a divorced woman who doesn't believe she can find her happily ever after, and Mason is a man who just wants a simple wife and kids, not his current wife who lives to party and drink. The writing in this book was superb, I was fully engrossed from page one, where we do hear about Angela who desperately wants to be a mother talking about her loss. Yes, there is mention of miscarriages, so be aware y'all if this is something you don't want to read bout. I thought that the author writing this in the story is a great point for women, who like Angela have suffered losses of children. I loved the ending and trust me when I say it was extremely happy:) I can't wait to read more by this author!
This was a quick yet heartfelt read centered on second chance romance and the reminder that it’s never too late to find your true soulmate. Though the story is shorter in length, it doesn’t shy away from heavier themes; miscarriage, alcoholism, divorce, and abortion are all woven into the narrative. However, these topics are handled with care, adding emotional depth without overwhelming the core love story.
At its heart, this book delivers a powerful message: don’t stay in a situation simply because you feel obligated. Life is far too short not to love the life you’re living. Go after what or in this case, who sparks joy, and trust that the rest will fall into place.
Set against the breathtaking backdrop of Grainau, Germany the story beautifully captures life’s inevitable ups and downs while emphasizing the importance of family and what it truly means to show up for the people who matter most. It’s a tender reminder that love, in all its forms, is always worth fighting for.
Once again, a huge thank you to Michele for sending me a copy of her debut novel, One Alpen Day!🥹💕
The story follows Angela Sutton, newly divorced and looking for a fresh start in her hometown of Grainau, Germany…while working at her family’s bakery, a chance encounter with famous Hollywood actor Mason Glade turns her world upside down. Struggling to deal with his estranged, alcoholic wife, Mason takes his two children to the German Alps for a brief getaway—but immediately feels like fate brought him straight to Angela’s village
This book was a beautiful mix of heartwarming writing and memorable characters, all wrapped up in a cozy, small-town atmosphere! It felt like I was transported straight to the German Alps, with so many charming little details that enhanced the story (including inspiration from Michele’s life as well!)
An emotional story of found family, second chances, grief, healing, and soulmates, I thoroughly enjoyed reading One Alpen Day!! Such a great, feel-good romance about two people finding one another when they needed it most!
This story feels like being welcomed into a family’s most tender moments ❤️ the kind shaped by love, routine and the quiet strength people give each other. Angela and Mason move through joy and sorrow side by side, their connection steady and warm throughout. There’s a gentle emotional rhythm to the way the scenes unfold. The family interactions, the small jokes, the familiar comfort of home and the way everyone leans on one another create a soft, lived‑in atmosphere. Even the heavier moments are written with a calm tenderness that lingers. What really stands out is how naturally the story moves between beginnings and endings. Generations overlap, memories surface, and the sense of home stays constant through it all. Angela’s heart, Mason’s steadiness and the closeness of their family give the entire piece a warm glow. The story leaves you with a quiet feeling of peace 🤍 a reminder that love carries people through every season and that even in change, there is comfort and strength. It’s heartfelt, honest and beautifully gentle.
**I was given this book by the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. **
This story takes place in the town of Grainau, Germany, and this town became another character in the book for me; and the family bakery depicted also resonated. I could smell the fresh dough and taste the sweets on my tongue.
Our main characters, Angela Sutton and Mason Glade, meet by chance. Angela has come home to Germany to help her Aunt Terese in the bakery. She is newly divorced and struggling with a lost pregnancy. Mason Glade, a famous Hollywood actor, has come to this small village with his two young children and is seeking a simpler life. He is estranged from his alcoholic wife, Camilla.
This is a beautiful love story about second chances, families, and finding community.
I really enjoyed the story and the warm feelings it evokes. This is @michele.d.dutton.author #debut novel, and I look forward to more enduring stories from her.
Angela and Mason both believed in love and marriage. But when both of their marriages were falling a part- they figured this would be it for them.
Angela wanted nothing more than to be a mother. But after losing two of her babies, her husband wanted a divorce. So she packed up and moved home- to Germany. Her happy place and her solace.
Mason needed a break. After another rehab visit for his wife- he took their two children to Germany for a small getaway. Little did he know he’d fall in love with the town, the people, and to a wonderful woman in a bakery.
Will this be just a vacation for Mason and his children? Or will he do what must be done with his wife for his children’s sake?
Thankyou Michele for giving me a heart wrenching romance to blubber with. Each page had me either kicking up my feet, or dabbing my tears. Thank you for taking me through Germany- with Opa and Oma, and all of our town friends, to the alps and back again.
This story made me laugh, feel, and fall in love with every moment. It was even more special knowing that some parts, like the scenes with Angela’s Opa (grandpa), are based on truth. Michele really wrote an emotional, heartwarming story that captures your heart from the very first page. The characters feel real and relatable, and their journeys of love, loss, and second chances are beautifully portrayed.
Reading this story felt extra special knowing so many of the places in Grainau, Germany, are real. I loved being able to look them up and actually visualize the setting, which made everything feel more immersive and meaningful, as if I were walking through Grainau myself.
I also really appreciated how the author included the German dialogue and interpreted what it meant. It added authenticity without pulling me out of the story. I even learned a few new words along the way, which made the reading experience feel personal and memorable.
It’s little details like these that made the story feel heartfelt, real, and full of charm. Thank you Michele, for sharing these touching moments with your readers; it truly added so much heart to the story.
This was such a cozy, emotional small-town read that completely pulled me in. One Alpen Day has all the vibes: snowy mountains, a charming little bakery, and that quiet, healing kind of romance that sneaks up on you. 🤍
I loved how emotional this felt without being overwhelming. It’s about healing, motherhood, second chances, and finding love when you’re not even sure you’re ready for it. The setting in the German Alps was beautiful and honestly made me want to pack up and move into a bakery immediately.
It gave me all the cozy, slightly cinematic, Lifetime-movie-in-the-best-way vibes. A perfect, easy but meaningful read, especially if you love small towns, family-centered stories, and soft, emotional romance. I would absolutely pick up more from this author and can’t wait to see what else she writes! 💕📖✨
Thank you again to Michelle Davenport-Dutton for the gifted copy of this book!!! I’ll treasure and recommend it always 😍❤️
Let me start by thanking the author for gifting me a copy of this book. *One Alpen Day* is a gentle and heartfelt story about Angela, a woman returning to her hometown; a small Bavarian Alpine village (Grainau, Germany), after personal loss, and Mason, a well known actor seeking refuge from a complicated life, who unexpectedly finds connection, comfort, and the possibility of a new beginning.
The novel really shines in its setting. The charm of the village, the beauty of the mountains, and the cozy warmth of everyday life are vividly brought to life, creating a peaceful, immersive atmosphere. This is a sweet and tender story about healing, family, and second chances. Characters are all likable and I love their connections, specially the touching moments in Angela's relationship with Mason's children. It's a quiet, easy read that leans into feeling rather than drama, making it a comforting and enjoyable story to settle into and makes you want to book a trip to the Alps.