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Escape to France #2
The French for Always
Five Weddings. The perfect venue. One little hitch...
Leaving the grey skies of home behind to transform a crumbling French Château into a boutique wedding venue is a huge leap of faith for Sara. She and fiancé Gavin sink their life savings into the beautiful Château Bellevue – set under blue skies and surrounded by vineyards in the heart of Bordeaux.
After months of hard work, the dream starts to become a reality – until Gavin walks out halfway through their first season. Overnight, Sara is left very much alone with the prospect of losing everything.
With her own heart breaking, Sara has five weddings before the end of the season to
turn the business around and rescue her dreams. With the help of the locals and a little courage can she save Château Bellevue before the summer is over?
Leaving the grey skies of home behind to transform a crumbling French Château into a boutique wedding venue is a huge leap of faith for Sara. She and fiancé Gavin sink their life savings into the beautiful Château Bellevue – set under blue skies and surrounded by vineyards in the heart of Bordeaux.
After months of hard work, the dream starts to become a reality – until Gavin walks out halfway through their first season. Overnight, Sara is left very much alone with the prospect of losing everything.
With her own heart breaking, Sara has five weddings before the end of the season to
turn the business around and rescue her dreams. With the help of the locals and a little courage can she save Château Bellevue before the summer is over?
288 pages, ebook
First published April 23, 2014
4674 people are currently reading
5084 people want to read
About the author
Fiona Valpy
19 books2,461 followersFiona Valpy spent seven years living in France, having moved there from the UK in 2007. She and her family renovated an old, rambling farmhouse in the Bordeaux winelands, during which time she developed new-found skills in cement-mixing, interior decorating and wine-tasting.
All of these inspirations, along with a love for the place, the people and their history, have found their way into the books she’s written, which have been translated into more than 30 languages and sold more than 2 million copies worldwide.
Fiona now lives in Scotland, but enjoys regular visits to France in search of the sun.
Sign up to be the first to hear about her NEW releases here: http://bit.ly/184zc8B
All of these inspirations, along with a love for the place, the people and their history, have found their way into the books she’s written, which have been translated into more than 30 languages and sold more than 2 million copies worldwide.
Fiona now lives in Scotland, but enjoys regular visits to France in search of the sun.
Sign up to be the first to hear about her NEW releases here: http://bit.ly/184zc8B
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 311 reviews
August 14, 2022
First of all, if you’ve read The Beekeeper’s Promise you’ll remember Sara, the owner of the castle. She’s the protagonist in this story. If you’ve read The Dressmaker’s Gift, you’ll remember Mireille and Eliane. They also appear in this book. If you’ve read The French For Love/Light Through The Vines, you’ll meet Gina and Cedric again! I love it when characters pop up in a book when you aren’t expecting them - it’s like meeting an old friend!
Secondly, if you’ve already read The French for Always, then you’ve already read this book!
Can you imagine moving to another country with your fiance, starting a wedding venue business, and then catching him in flagrante with one of the client’s bridesmaids? What a letdown! For someone in the business of creating fairy-tale endings and happy-ever-afters, this was gut-wrenching. Sara has to pick up her life and carry on without Gavin because she’s got five weddings booked and she can’t let the brides down on their important day. When a cute wine salesman crosses her path, Sara begins to imagine other options than just selling and returning to London.
What a dreamy setting for a wedding - an ancient chateau in Bordeaux! I loved reading about Chateau Bellevue de Coulliac, the mystery it holds and how it connects to a book I’ve previously read. Valpy writes such descriptive settings that it’s easy for readers to place themselves in the story. The added historical fiction flavour increased my enjoyment of this book. I also enjoyed learning about les larmes de Saint Laurent, the bluet (cornflower), the sage-femme, and Code Napoleon inheritance laws. Valpy has a lovely mix of genres in this book.
Equally exciting are her characters. Although I couldn’t connect to them as well as those in book 1, I did love how the chapters were copies of the wedding invitations and featured the couple to be married. What a lovely idea. The design of the invitation was a perfect way to introduce them as it gave readers an inkling of what the characters were like. I loved The Hels Belles and the Irish family! The title was a perfect choice for the wedding season and brides' (and Sara’s) dreams for the future.
I already feel like I know this little community and I can’t wait to see what Valpy has in store for them in book 3.
I was gifted this advance copy by Amazon Publishing UK, Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Secondly, if you’ve already read The French for Always, then you’ve already read this book!
Can you imagine moving to another country with your fiance, starting a wedding venue business, and then catching him in flagrante with one of the client’s bridesmaids? What a letdown! For someone in the business of creating fairy-tale endings and happy-ever-afters, this was gut-wrenching. Sara has to pick up her life and carry on without Gavin because she’s got five weddings booked and she can’t let the brides down on their important day. When a cute wine salesman crosses her path, Sara begins to imagine other options than just selling and returning to London.
What a dreamy setting for a wedding - an ancient chateau in Bordeaux! I loved reading about Chateau Bellevue de Coulliac, the mystery it holds and how it connects to a book I’ve previously read. Valpy writes such descriptive settings that it’s easy for readers to place themselves in the story. The added historical fiction flavour increased my enjoyment of this book. I also enjoyed learning about les larmes de Saint Laurent, the bluet (cornflower), the sage-femme, and Code Napoleon inheritance laws. Valpy has a lovely mix of genres in this book.
Equally exciting are her characters. Although I couldn’t connect to them as well as those in book 1, I did love how the chapters were copies of the wedding invitations and featured the couple to be married. What a lovely idea. The design of the invitation was a perfect way to introduce them as it gave readers an inkling of what the characters were like. I loved The Hels Belles and the Irish family! The title was a perfect choice for the wedding season and brides' (and Sara’s) dreams for the future.
I already feel like I know this little community and I can’t wait to see what Valpy has in store for them in book 3.
I was gifted this advance copy by Amazon Publishing UK, Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
February 18, 2019
A lovely, easy read with just enough excitement for the English-born French chateau owner to overcome!
April 19, 2014
Review: having loved The French for Love by this author last year, I was keen to get my hands on a copy of this new novel and it proved to be just as much of a lovely read as the first! This was set in the gorgeous French countryside which, itself, was another character in the novel, I honestly felt like I was there drinking in the sunshine, the atmosphere and the wine! The description in this book was just beautiful full on wonderful metaphorical language and adjectives that tasted wonderful in the mouth!
The character of Sara was likeable, if a little weak. I found myself really warming to her but at some point am asking her to pull herself together and ask for some help. The supporting characters really complimented her well and there are two leading men, one of whom we loved to hate and the other of whom we loved, of course. Sara really does do well at preserving her wedding business and is so calm and collected in front of her brides, where her personal life is concerned though, she really is a bit of a flounderer!
The storyline left a little to be desired in my opinion. I felt a bit like nothing really happened. There was the danger of the business going under and the chateau being sold to someone else, but the weddings at the chateau seemed to be the main issue that was dealt with and I felt that this had been done before, and a little better, in other novels. There was one dramatic turn which had me seriously worried and brought a tear to my eye, but apart from this, nothing more dramatic. The lack of drama didn't really bother me because the writing was so beautiful and it was such a simple story, it proved to be a quick read, however if you are looking for something with lots of twists and turns, you won't find it here.
Overall this novel would be a lovely summer read, you will feel the heat emanating off the page and so will definitely put you in the mood for barbecues and a glass of wine or too alfresco. This is a stand along novel, so if you haven't read anything from this author before, it would be a great introduction to her lovely writing!
The character of Sara was likeable, if a little weak. I found myself really warming to her but at some point am asking her to pull herself together and ask for some help. The supporting characters really complimented her well and there are two leading men, one of whom we loved to hate and the other of whom we loved, of course. Sara really does do well at preserving her wedding business and is so calm and collected in front of her brides, where her personal life is concerned though, she really is a bit of a flounderer!
The storyline left a little to be desired in my opinion. I felt a bit like nothing really happened. There was the danger of the business going under and the chateau being sold to someone else, but the weddings at the chateau seemed to be the main issue that was dealt with and I felt that this had been done before, and a little better, in other novels. There was one dramatic turn which had me seriously worried and brought a tear to my eye, but apart from this, nothing more dramatic. The lack of drama didn't really bother me because the writing was so beautiful and it was such a simple story, it proved to be a quick read, however if you are looking for something with lots of twists and turns, you won't find it here.
Overall this novel would be a lovely summer read, you will feel the heat emanating off the page and so will definitely put you in the mood for barbecues and a glass of wine or too alfresco. This is a stand along novel, so if you haven't read anything from this author before, it would be a great introduction to her lovely writing!
April 25, 2021
A quick, easy & lovely read!
This light romance novel, set at Chateau Bellevue in the gorgeous French countryside, was the perfect escape that I needed in my life right now.
The main character Sara runs the chateau as a wedding venue, so we experience all the excitement, chaos and love of a variety of weddings!
Valpy has an amazing talent of being able to truly make me feel like I was in France alongside them. I also LOVE how she weaves characters in from her other novels, making those of us who have read her other work in on a little secret that only us “special” ones will catch on to!
If you’re planning to read this book, I highly suggest you read The Beekeeper’s Promise and The Dressmaker’s Gift beforehand to get the best experience possible!
A lovely summer read. Definitely recommend!
This light romance novel, set at Chateau Bellevue in the gorgeous French countryside, was the perfect escape that I needed in my life right now.
The main character Sara runs the chateau as a wedding venue, so we experience all the excitement, chaos and love of a variety of weddings!
Valpy has an amazing talent of being able to truly make me feel like I was in France alongside them. I also LOVE how she weaves characters in from her other novels, making those of us who have read her other work in on a little secret that only us “special” ones will catch on to!
If you’re planning to read this book, I highly suggest you read The Beekeeper’s Promise and The Dressmaker’s Gift beforehand to get the best experience possible!
A lovely summer read. Definitely recommend!
April 27, 2014
The perfect rom-com recipe for the summer needs a few key ingredients: a beautiful location, a heroine we cheer for, a problem that seems insurmountable and, of course, the guy who turns out to be exactly the person our heroine was looking for. We want romance, we want an escape, we want to dream ourselves away and get lost as we read, and Fiona Valpy, author of The French for Love (which I reviewed last year), delivers on all points with The French for Always.
So what’s the set up? Meet Sara and Gavin–they’ve left England behind to live in the French countryside, running a boutique wedding venue. After months of renovating their dream chateau and finally getting their business going, Gavin decides this isn’t the life he wants, cheats on Sara and then buggers off. Reeling from the discovery of Gavin’s infidelity, Sara has to do everything she can to keep her business going and hold on to her dream of the home she’s never really ever had. And then…love steps in.
Intrigued? You should be! The French for Always is such a charming book and the perfect page-turner for lazy days. Sara is a great romantic heroine–she is resourceful even when faced with the possibility of losing everything she’s dreamed of, she is strong and big-hearted. By the end of the book, you feel like you’ve gained a new friend. The secondary characters will also put a smile on your face. And the descriptions of the Bordeaux countryside make me long to go to France (and I am a confirmed Italophile!) and wander among the vineyards…
I really enjoyed The French for Always! I’m already looking forward to Fiona Valpy’s next book.
So what’s the set up? Meet Sara and Gavin–they’ve left England behind to live in the French countryside, running a boutique wedding venue. After months of renovating their dream chateau and finally getting their business going, Gavin decides this isn’t the life he wants, cheats on Sara and then buggers off. Reeling from the discovery of Gavin’s infidelity, Sara has to do everything she can to keep her business going and hold on to her dream of the home she’s never really ever had. And then…love steps in.
Intrigued? You should be! The French for Always is such a charming book and the perfect page-turner for lazy days. Sara is a great romantic heroine–she is resourceful even when faced with the possibility of losing everything she’s dreamed of, she is strong and big-hearted. By the end of the book, you feel like you’ve gained a new friend. The secondary characters will also put a smile on your face. And the descriptions of the Bordeaux countryside make me long to go to France (and I am a confirmed Italophile!) and wander among the vineyards…
I really enjoyed The French for Always! I’m already looking forward to Fiona Valpy’s next book.
May 15, 2014
This review was frist published at M's Bookshelf - http://mssbookshelf.blogspot.be
Such a lovely read! The story turns out to be everything the cover promises you: romance, sun, breathtaking scenery, and did I say romance?
Sara is such an easy to like, easy to love main character. You feel very strongly about her and Fiona describes all her emotions, from hope and happiness to sadness and heartbreak so well that it might just be you, living in a French castle planning weddings! And what a life that would be! Sara's hardship aside, of course.
Fiona Valpy brings a wonderful variety of characters to the party so there's definitely not a dull moment, both in Château Bellevue and in reading. Be warned, after you've dried your tears, you might just book a plane ticket to some desolated vineyard for a holiday in the sun drinking wine, eating French bread and falling in love. 'Cause yes, all of that can happen!
The French for Always is a lovely summer read about dreams, friendship and romance in all its forms; and in Château Bellevue everyone comes together to celebrate just that.
I was very very happy when I found out that there's a sequel! The French for Love! Guess what I'll be reading...
Such a lovely read! The story turns out to be everything the cover promises you: romance, sun, breathtaking scenery, and did I say romance?
Sara is such an easy to like, easy to love main character. You feel very strongly about her and Fiona describes all her emotions, from hope and happiness to sadness and heartbreak so well that it might just be you, living in a French castle planning weddings! And what a life that would be! Sara's hardship aside, of course.
Fiona Valpy brings a wonderful variety of characters to the party so there's definitely not a dull moment, both in Château Bellevue and in reading. Be warned, after you've dried your tears, you might just book a plane ticket to some desolated vineyard for a holiday in the sun drinking wine, eating French bread and falling in love. 'Cause yes, all of that can happen!
The French for Always is a lovely summer read about dreams, friendship and romance in all its forms; and in Château Bellevue everyone comes together to celebrate just that.
I was very very happy when I found out that there's a sequel! The French for Love! Guess what I'll be reading...
August 27, 2017
A wonderful romance, where you expect certain events and are not remotely disappointed when you get them.
Sara has thrown everything into the business she has set up with her fiancé Gavin. They are determined to make a success of their chateau catering for weddings. At the back of her mind Sara fears her future is not stable, and this is cruelly shown to be the case when she finds her fiancé having sex with a bridesmaid at the first wedding we witness.
After a welcome (and healthy) vent, Sara resolves to get through the season and then see what her future holds.
We alternate between her life, and the booked weddings for the summer season. Through her interactions with those around her, we learn more of the chateau's history, and get a real sense of the setting. Of course the focus is on romance, and you can't help but get caught up in her life.
Inevitably, Sara gets another chance at happiness. We know what's coming, but it seems perfect for that moment in the story. A warm-hearted story that will definitely have you believing in that happy ever after.
Sara has thrown everything into the business she has set up with her fiancé Gavin. They are determined to make a success of their chateau catering for weddings. At the back of her mind Sara fears her future is not stable, and this is cruelly shown to be the case when she finds her fiancé having sex with a bridesmaid at the first wedding we witness.
After a welcome (and healthy) vent, Sara resolves to get through the season and then see what her future holds.
We alternate between her life, and the booked weddings for the summer season. Through her interactions with those around her, we learn more of the chateau's history, and get a real sense of the setting. Of course the focus is on romance, and you can't help but get caught up in her life.
Inevitably, Sara gets another chance at happiness. We know what's coming, but it seems perfect for that moment in the story. A warm-hearted story that will definitely have you believing in that happy ever after.
April 28, 2014
I haven't read Fiona Valpy before but it's going to change very soon, especially as, after finishing The French for Always, I have read an excerpt of her previous book The French for Love and I really, really liked it!
The French for Always begins with a hit already: our main character Sara dumps her boyfriend Gavin as she realises that he more than once betrayed her and slept with some guest that come to their chateau where they organize weddings. They have invested some years and some money in this old building in the French countryside and now Sara is left alone. She must comes to terms firstly with Gavin leaving her - although it's not as hard as she thought it's going to be, because actually there were not a lot of sparks between them lately - and secondly, that she alone must take care of the business and the money, as Gavin is for sure going to need his part of the money that he invested in the castle. Sara doesn't want to sell the chateau of course, it's grown to be her home, she loves the place, the gardens that she creates, she loves her guests and the team that works with her.
Between the weddings that take place at the chateau, and her guests, Sara discovers her new love Thomas, and the love story between them felt so real, I just could picture the feelings between them. I think this is the first book that the feeling was described in such a beautiful way, developing in a natural way and if felt so realistic and so genuine!
Sara was a very likeable character. She was a serene, reasonable girl with a past that was not too easy for her, as her parents divorced, re - married and she couldn't find herself afresh with the new families, she felt she didn't belong to any of them. She only dreamed about building new family, new home in France and live her nice life. There were moments that she was thirty going on three hundred almost, the way she was speaking and behaving, but in some ways it suited her perfectly and she felt very realistic. In my eyes, she was an old - modern girl who was born in the wrong times but she found a right place, friends and herself in France afresh and it was a real pain to see that she must fear now about her future and I have kept my fingers crossed for her. There was not a real drama or battle for the chateau in fact, but we got the right feeling of uncertainty and really felt for Sara.
What I totally enjoyed was the great cast of characters that we get to know, people coming to the weddings, getting married, their guests. There was some number of them but they were all written with a great feeling, each of them had their own story and although they were all just a sub - characters, they all added to the book, they were all brilliantly drawn and were totally engaging and given a heart. Their stories were only a background to the book but nevertheless, they just popped out of the pages and were a great fun and won't be forgotten!
We also get glimpses to Sara's past and I had my heart almost broken as I visualised this scared little girl, alone on the street in a pouring rain. Fiona has such a way with words, her writing is so vivid and realistic and she has made a wonderful job with the flow. There is not much action in the sense of plot but nevertheless, the pace is just right and it was very easy to dive into this book again and again and it just transported you into the French countryside and you felt like a part of the book and the plot. Fiona can brilliantly create an atmosphere and I just felt as if I was there, drank the wine and admired the settings.
As I have already said, it is not a story full of twists and turns, it has actually a very plain plot and there is not happening much in terms of action. But in this case this lack of drama didn't bother me at all, no, I went with the flow and enjoyed the smooth, peaceful story, full of beautiful weather, beautiful settings and beautiful people. Told in a very charming, sweet way, I have actually felt emotions and love in every word. Sometimes it is great to read such a simple, not exaggerated story.
Copy received from publisher in exchange for a review.
The French for Always begins with a hit already: our main character Sara dumps her boyfriend Gavin as she realises that he more than once betrayed her and slept with some guest that come to their chateau where they organize weddings. They have invested some years and some money in this old building in the French countryside and now Sara is left alone. She must comes to terms firstly with Gavin leaving her - although it's not as hard as she thought it's going to be, because actually there were not a lot of sparks between them lately - and secondly, that she alone must take care of the business and the money, as Gavin is for sure going to need his part of the money that he invested in the castle. Sara doesn't want to sell the chateau of course, it's grown to be her home, she loves the place, the gardens that she creates, she loves her guests and the team that works with her.
Between the weddings that take place at the chateau, and her guests, Sara discovers her new love Thomas, and the love story between them felt so real, I just could picture the feelings between them. I think this is the first book that the feeling was described in such a beautiful way, developing in a natural way and if felt so realistic and so genuine!
Sara was a very likeable character. She was a serene, reasonable girl with a past that was not too easy for her, as her parents divorced, re - married and she couldn't find herself afresh with the new families, she felt she didn't belong to any of them. She only dreamed about building new family, new home in France and live her nice life. There were moments that she was thirty going on three hundred almost, the way she was speaking and behaving, but in some ways it suited her perfectly and she felt very realistic. In my eyes, she was an old - modern girl who was born in the wrong times but she found a right place, friends and herself in France afresh and it was a real pain to see that she must fear now about her future and I have kept my fingers crossed for her. There was not a real drama or battle for the chateau in fact, but we got the right feeling of uncertainty and really felt for Sara.
What I totally enjoyed was the great cast of characters that we get to know, people coming to the weddings, getting married, their guests. There was some number of them but they were all written with a great feeling, each of them had their own story and although they were all just a sub - characters, they all added to the book, they were all brilliantly drawn and were totally engaging and given a heart. Their stories were only a background to the book but nevertheless, they just popped out of the pages and were a great fun and won't be forgotten!
We also get glimpses to Sara's past and I had my heart almost broken as I visualised this scared little girl, alone on the street in a pouring rain. Fiona has such a way with words, her writing is so vivid and realistic and she has made a wonderful job with the flow. There is not much action in the sense of plot but nevertheless, the pace is just right and it was very easy to dive into this book again and again and it just transported you into the French countryside and you felt like a part of the book and the plot. Fiona can brilliantly create an atmosphere and I just felt as if I was there, drank the wine and admired the settings.
As I have already said, it is not a story full of twists and turns, it has actually a very plain plot and there is not happening much in terms of action. But in this case this lack of drama didn't bother me at all, no, I went with the flow and enjoyed the smooth, peaceful story, full of beautiful weather, beautiful settings and beautiful people. Told in a very charming, sweet way, I have actually felt emotions and love in every word. Sometimes it is great to read such a simple, not exaggerated story.
Copy received from publisher in exchange for a review.
June 19, 2022
Thank you NetGalley and Amazon Publishing UK Lake Union Publishing for the eARC.
Sara and Gavin have bought and refurbished a chateau in the wine country of Bordeaux and turned it into a wedding venue. But when Sara discovers Gavin in a compromising situation with one of the guests, her world practically collapses.
How she turns around the situation and finds love again is a wonderful story, told with much sensitivity and optimism. It's a lovely read, especially in these difficult times in the world, Definitely recommended!
Sara and Gavin have bought and refurbished a chateau in the wine country of Bordeaux and turned it into a wedding venue. But when Sara discovers Gavin in a compromising situation with one of the guests, her world practically collapses.
How she turns around the situation and finds love again is a wonderful story, told with much sensitivity and optimism. It's a lovely read, especially in these difficult times in the world, Definitely recommended!
June 24, 2022
Sara and Gavin run the Chateau Bellevue providing beautiful weddings in the French Countryside, until she discovers Gavin with one of the bridesmaids. With her dreams of her own fairytale wedding in shatters Sara has to regroup and try and salvage the rest of the years bookings whilst trying to find a way to hold onto the chateau. Will she get her own Happy Ever After?
A delightful read with lovely descriptions of all the weddings. Relatable characters and links to other books by Fiona. Perfect summer read
A delightful read with lovely descriptions of all the weddings. Relatable characters and links to other books by Fiona. Perfect summer read
November 2, 2022
Thanks to Netgalley for a copy of this book for an honest review.
Quick read about 5 very different weddings in a French chateau and the lessons they teach Sara, the owner. Beautiful!
Quick read about 5 very different weddings in a French chateau and the lessons they teach Sara, the owner. Beautiful!
September 6, 2019
3.25 stars.
I enjoyed this one, but not as much as The Beekeeper's Promise since it didn't have the historical storyline. However, the modern day story very much appealed to me. It wasn't OTT dramatic, and the author made me feel things without veering into syrupy sweet land. I think that is the thing that I appreciate the most about this author's writing. She's able to engage and compel with subtlety ad nuance. I guess I'm used to most authors these days telling you what you should be feeling instead of coaxing you along the way. This was also written completely in the third person as opposed to The Beekeeper's Promise which was told in the first person pov (the modern day story line) and the third person (the historical story line). Of course, this is personal preference, and may vary from reader to reader.
I admired the h for her wherewithal and the H for being a sweet, non-brooding romantic. How refreshing. I also really appreciated that this was a clean read, with all intimate scenes behind closed doors (except for ). No details were given of the H's past, but I'd like to believe that he was not a manho and was a genuinely good guy. Safe.
I enjoyed this one, but not as much as The Beekeeper's Promise since it didn't have the historical storyline. However, the modern day story very much appealed to me. It wasn't OTT dramatic, and the author made me feel things without veering into syrupy sweet land. I think that is the thing that I appreciate the most about this author's writing. She's able to engage and compel with subtlety ad nuance. I guess I'm used to most authors these days telling you what you should be feeling instead of coaxing you along the way. This was also written completely in the third person as opposed to The Beekeeper's Promise which was told in the first person pov (the modern day story line) and the third person (the historical story line). Of course, this is personal preference, and may vary from reader to reader.
I admired the h for her wherewithal and the H for being a sweet, non-brooding romantic. How refreshing. I also really appreciated that this was a clean read, with all intimate scenes behind closed doors (except for ). No details were given of the H's past, but I'd like to believe that he was not a manho and was a genuinely good guy. Safe.
July 10, 2023
The Season of Dreams by Fiona Valpy
Escape to France #2
Revised edition: Previously published as The French for Always, this edition of The Season of Dreams includes editorial revisions.
197-page Kindle Ebook
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Women's Fiction
Featuring: Named Chapters, French to English Glossary, English MC, France, Wedding Planner, Gardner, With the Wrong One/Jilted Trope, Historical Artifacts, DJ, Invitations, Weddings, Couples, Previous Book Characters Cameos, Next Book Preview - The Recipe For Hope
Rating as a movie: PG-13 for adult situations and content
Songs for the soundtrack: "The Way You Look Tonight" by Frank Sinatra
"Highland Fling 4 Steps"
Rob Barrick, "Imagine" by John Lennon, "Can't Help Falling in Love" by Elvis Presley
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️🇫🇷💒
My thoughts: 🔖Page 47 of 197 Ch. 4 Something New - It started well but now it's teetering between good and overdone.
🔖98 Ch. 7 Something Blue - I'm lost. This wedding portion of the story isn't bad, but I'm not buying the love story portion.
This story had its moments. I will most definitely be finishing the series. Gina and several other characters from the previous book show up, but they don't really tell their story so all is not lost if you read out of order by mistake. Since Sara was a new character I'm expecting the same for the next book, but who knows, there are enough minor characters to expand upon, like Karen. I enjoyed the incorporation of the wedding invitations in some chapters.
Recommend to others: Sure. This is an easy series and can be a bit fun too.
Escape to France #2
Revised edition: Previously published as The French for Always, this edition of The Season of Dreams includes editorial revisions.
197-page Kindle Ebook
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Women's Fiction
Featuring: Named Chapters, French to English Glossary, English MC, France, Wedding Planner, Gardner, With the Wrong One/Jilted Trope, Historical Artifacts, DJ, Invitations, Weddings, Couples, Previous Book Characters Cameos, Next Book Preview - The Recipe For Hope
Rating as a movie: PG-13 for adult situations and content
Songs for the soundtrack: "The Way You Look Tonight" by Frank Sinatra
"Highland Fling 4 Steps"
Rob Barrick, "Imagine" by John Lennon, "Can't Help Falling in Love" by Elvis Presley
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️🇫🇷💒
My thoughts: 🔖Page 47 of 197 Ch. 4 Something New - It started well but now it's teetering between good and overdone.
🔖98 Ch. 7 Something Blue - I'm lost. This wedding portion of the story isn't bad, but I'm not buying the love story portion.
This story had its moments. I will most definitely be finishing the series. Gina and several other characters from the previous book show up, but they don't really tell their story so all is not lost if you read out of order by mistake. Since Sara was a new character I'm expecting the same for the next book, but who knows, there are enough minor characters to expand upon, like Karen. I enjoyed the incorporation of the wedding invitations in some chapters.
Recommend to others: Sure. This is an easy series and can be a bit fun too.
February 4, 2020
Sara and Gavin have renovated a beautiful Chateaux in southern France. They host weddings and all is going well until Gavin ups and leaves Sara well and truly in the lurch.
This is a story of love, loss, determination and finding your voice again, with the stunning french countryside as a backdrop, the weddings add more characters and interest as they’re like mini stories in themselves.
It’s a little bit cheesy, but hey the French make good cheese!!
This is a story of love, loss, determination and finding your voice again, with the stunning french countryside as a backdrop, the weddings add more characters and interest as they’re like mini stories in themselves.
It’s a little bit cheesy, but hey the French make good cheese!!
August 13, 2024
Arvestades seda, et lugesin raamatu läbi kolme päevaga, siis ilmselgelt midagi seal oli, kuigi süžee on üsna etteaimatav ja peale "Casablanca jutuvestjat" jättis natuke lihtsa mulje. Aga jätkan sama autori lugemist ja suviseks lugemiseks siiski tore raamat.
January 28, 2021
Easy-reading, predictable, and a perfect escape!
August 12, 2025
A lovely little book. An easy read with some great characters.
January 18, 2021
I enjoyed “The French for Always” by Fiona Valpy. It is the third book of Valpy’s that I have read. “The French for Always” does not try to cover two time periods as the other of her books that I read however, I do not know if that made a difference, the characters in this book were simply more enjoyable and relatable. The setting for the book is good as Valpy obviously understands French culture and geography. I really enjoyed the connections between Valpy’s stories. She uses characters from previous books to inspire new stories so the books storylines weave together in an interesting way. If you are looking for an easy read set in France I recommend you check out Valpy’s books. I will be reading more of hers and I do recommend them.
December 9, 2019
Another lovely book from Fiona Valpy - she really does write very well and all the books I have read have been excellent. This one is set in Chateau Bellevue which I had read about earlier in The Beekeeper's Promise so was nice to get the background to that book. The main character Sara runs the chateau as a wedding venue and there are several wedding scenarios which are all amusing and romantic, but don't seem forced. Definitely need to get the rest of the back catalogue and look forward to her new writings.
July 31, 2020
Zelo dobra knjiga, kot nalašč za poletno branje. Zgodba je zelo dobro sestavljena z zanimivimi zapleti in razpleti, tudi stil pisanja kar vleče k branju. Vendar pa zgodba ni dovolj razdelana kot bi lahko bila. Vse je na hitro in površinsko opisano, škoda. Res bi bila lahko izvrstna knjiga.
June 23, 2014
Sara is engaged to Gavin and has given up her life in Britain to follow their dream of turning an unloved French Chateau into a luxury wedding venue. On paper, her life seems perfect ... so why is she finding it hard to breath?
All becomes clear when suddenly, she discovers some home truths about her Husband-to-be and he ups and leaves shortly after their dream has begun. Alone in an empty Chateau, with an equally empty bank account and an aching heart, Sara has almost given up hope of reaching the end of the wedding season, never mind continuing the dream long into the future ... but she soon discovers that whilst there's a chance you may not get by with a little help from your friends, you can at least give it a pretty good shot.
The setting around which the novel is based is a combination of fact and fiction, but is also nothing short of breathtakingly beautiful and Fiona Valpy's descriptions of Bordeaux bring both the Chateau and it's surroundings to life.
Sara is a wonderful leading lady, realistic when doubting her potential to succeed, yet inspirational when bringing her strength to the surface and putting everything into making her business a success. The close knit group of employees and friends that are a regular fixtures throughout, all fit into the story well and each group of guests that arrive at the wedding venue bring with them a unique element of entertainment, humour and romance.
The French For Always is brimming with little helpings of romance, from the not quite straight forward love life of our leading lady, to the stories behind each of the couples arriving to commit their lives to one another within Sara's Chateau. I won't spoil it for you, but this story features one of the most romantic scenes I have ever read, but the difference between this and your usual romantic highlight is that it isn't a big, final scene between two primary characters, but a small, perfectly placed moment between two minor characters, that sneaks up on you as if from nowhere.
My Rating 5/5 ~ Five weddings, great characters, a beautiful setting, a good looking French man (or two) and lots of wine make this a perfect summer read. Funny, entertaining and hopelessly romantic ... you'll be hoping for six happy endings in total - one for each of the five wedding couples and the last for the lovely Sara. Tres bien!
All becomes clear when suddenly, she discovers some home truths about her Husband-to-be and he ups and leaves shortly after their dream has begun. Alone in an empty Chateau, with an equally empty bank account and an aching heart, Sara has almost given up hope of reaching the end of the wedding season, never mind continuing the dream long into the future ... but she soon discovers that whilst there's a chance you may not get by with a little help from your friends, you can at least give it a pretty good shot.
The setting around which the novel is based is a combination of fact and fiction, but is also nothing short of breathtakingly beautiful and Fiona Valpy's descriptions of Bordeaux bring both the Chateau and it's surroundings to life.
Sara is a wonderful leading lady, realistic when doubting her potential to succeed, yet inspirational when bringing her strength to the surface and putting everything into making her business a success. The close knit group of employees and friends that are a regular fixtures throughout, all fit into the story well and each group of guests that arrive at the wedding venue bring with them a unique element of entertainment, humour and romance.
The French For Always is brimming with little helpings of romance, from the not quite straight forward love life of our leading lady, to the stories behind each of the couples arriving to commit their lives to one another within Sara's Chateau. I won't spoil it for you, but this story features one of the most romantic scenes I have ever read, but the difference between this and your usual romantic highlight is that it isn't a big, final scene between two primary characters, but a small, perfectly placed moment between two minor characters, that sneaks up on you as if from nowhere.
My Rating 5/5 ~ Five weddings, great characters, a beautiful setting, a good looking French man (or two) and lots of wine make this a perfect summer read. Funny, entertaining and hopelessly romantic ... you'll be hoping for six happy endings in total - one for each of the five wedding couples and the last for the lovely Sara. Tres bien!
April 25, 2014
I was offered a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review by Kim at Bookouture in exchange for an honest review. Kim wasn't wrong when she suggested I might enjoy reading this book.
Sara and Gavin are engaged to be married, have sold up in the UK and ploughed all their savings into renovating and running a French Chateau as a wedding venue only for Gavin to jump ship part way through their first season.
Sara comes across as vulnerable but has a hidden strength of character that she wears like a mask - ensuring her troubles didn't affect her wedding parties. I was rooting for Sara all the way.
I just loved this book it was a beautiful read and Fiona just sold it to me. Her descriptions of the Chateau and the local village were so vivid I could have been there, sitting on the terrace admiring the view whilst enjoying a glass of wine in the late evening sun. I could almost smell the dusty heat and taste the beautiful food.
It is a book that will make you sigh with happiness over and over again. Whilst I read it I smiled a lot, laughed and it even brought a tear to my eye. Sara's attention to detail along with her cool, calm outlook is the perfect antidote to the high octane stress levels experienced in different ways by each of the wedding parties. Nothing appears to be too much trouble and no problem unsolvable for Sara and her team of staff that became her backbone when Gavin jumped ship. Sara bends over backwards to ensure that every wedding is perfect and memorable for all the right reasons putting her own problems to one side.
If I was getting married again I wouldn't hesitate I'd be on that plane booking into Chateau Bellevue Anyone who hasn't visited France, eaten fresh bread and croissants bought first thing in the morning from a local boulangerie is missing something special. August would be my choice of month too - I have been fortunate to experience the Perseids meteor shower and this would be the perfect end to a magical day.
I highly recommend this feel good book that will bring a touch of France into your home along with happiness, sunshine and laughter whatever the weather is doing outside.
Sara and Gavin are engaged to be married, have sold up in the UK and ploughed all their savings into renovating and running a French Chateau as a wedding venue only for Gavin to jump ship part way through their first season.
Sara comes across as vulnerable but has a hidden strength of character that she wears like a mask - ensuring her troubles didn't affect her wedding parties. I was rooting for Sara all the way.
I just loved this book it was a beautiful read and Fiona just sold it to me. Her descriptions of the Chateau and the local village were so vivid I could have been there, sitting on the terrace admiring the view whilst enjoying a glass of wine in the late evening sun. I could almost smell the dusty heat and taste the beautiful food.
It is a book that will make you sigh with happiness over and over again. Whilst I read it I smiled a lot, laughed and it even brought a tear to my eye. Sara's attention to detail along with her cool, calm outlook is the perfect antidote to the high octane stress levels experienced in different ways by each of the wedding parties. Nothing appears to be too much trouble and no problem unsolvable for Sara and her team of staff that became her backbone when Gavin jumped ship. Sara bends over backwards to ensure that every wedding is perfect and memorable for all the right reasons putting her own problems to one side.
If I was getting married again I wouldn't hesitate I'd be on that plane booking into Chateau Bellevue Anyone who hasn't visited France, eaten fresh bread and croissants bought first thing in the morning from a local boulangerie is missing something special. August would be my choice of month too - I have been fortunate to experience the Perseids meteor shower and this would be the perfect end to a magical day.
I highly recommend this feel good book that will bring a touch of France into your home along with happiness, sunshine and laughter whatever the weather is doing outside.
April 25, 2014
Original review is posted on Chick Library Cat Book Blog:
http://www.chicklibrarycat.blogspot.c...
When I first saw this book, I fell in love with the cover. French countryside, vineyards, chateau. Mmmmm! What's not to like here? So I asked this book for reviewing and I wasn't wrong. I don't usually judge the books by their covers, but this time I did. And I loved the book as much as I loved the cover.
So, in this lovely French chateau we meet Sara and Gavin, a couple who left England to run a wedding business in France. They bought the chateau, renovated it and started a wedding organizing business. But after a while, Gavin decides that he isn't happy here anymore, he cheats on Sara and after she finds out, he leaves. Sara is on her own to run the chateau by herself. With a little help from her friends, she manages to organize the most beautiful weddings, and maybe to find the love again.
I love Sara as MC. After finding out about her cheating fiance, she has no doubt what she wants to do. All her life she is in the search for a place called home. When she finally finds it, she'll do anything to keep it. I admire her strength, her faith. She is always so kind and caring person. She is always there for her friends, and not just her friends.
So, do not miss this French adventure. Join Sara in organizing breath-taking weddings and exploring the history of the chateau. Get a glass of wine and enjoy this lovable reading, you won't regret it.
http://www.chicklibrarycat.blogspot.c...
When I first saw this book, I fell in love with the cover. French countryside, vineyards, chateau. Mmmmm! What's not to like here? So I asked this book for reviewing and I wasn't wrong. I don't usually judge the books by their covers, but this time I did. And I loved the book as much as I loved the cover.
So, in this lovely French chateau we meet Sara and Gavin, a couple who left England to run a wedding business in France. They bought the chateau, renovated it and started a wedding organizing business. But after a while, Gavin decides that he isn't happy here anymore, he cheats on Sara and after she finds out, he leaves. Sara is on her own to run the chateau by herself. With a little help from her friends, she manages to organize the most beautiful weddings, and maybe to find the love again.
I love Sara as MC. After finding out about her cheating fiance, she has no doubt what she wants to do. All her life she is in the search for a place called home. When she finally finds it, she'll do anything to keep it. I admire her strength, her faith. She is always so kind and caring person. She is always there for her friends, and not just her friends.
So, do not miss this French adventure. Join Sara in organizing breath-taking weddings and exploring the history of the chateau. Get a glass of wine and enjoy this lovable reading, you won't regret it.
July 28, 2022
I didn't realize until I started reading this that I had previously read this in 2020 under the title The French for Always. While somewhat predictable, The Season of Dreams is a pleasant tale of love and second chances. I enjoyed reading the stories behind each of the five different weddings described in the book, especially the last one, and how each of these love stories affects Sara and her business at the Château Bellevue. A fast read.
August 22, 2014
It was a cute, short and sweet read, but it did take me a while to warm up to the characters.
April 11, 2021
I found out about this book after having read "The Beekeeper's Promise". I really enjoyed the concept of a château located in the South of France, and after reading about its history, I was very interested in learning how Sarah was using it as a wedding venue.
This book flowed easily. I really liked Sarah's story and I was not mad at the style of writing, even though I was not a fan of it in "The Beekeeper's Promise".
At first, we meet Sarah right after she's gone in business with her new fiancé. They move from England to France, buy and renovate the Château Bellevue and start running a successful wedding business. Slowly, Sarah's story unravels and we find out about her struggles. She is forced to step up and adapt to all the difficulties, all the while finding friendship and love in the little French village. .
I, also, enjoyed learning a bit more about Eliane's story! We learn so much about the 1940 Eliane in the Beekeeper's Promise and I was excited to know details of modern-day Eliane's life.
While reading this book I truly felt part of the story. I felt as if I was living in Château de Coulliac and I was present to all the weddings! I sympathised with Sarah, and I was cursing at her fiancé! This is something I experienced while reading the Beekeeper's promise, too, and it is the author's amazing ability to make you feel part of her universe.
I totally recommend reading this book. I found it a beautiful getaway from the Covid-19 dystopia the world is experiencing at the moment, especially when we're not allowed to travel.
I'm still not sure whether you should read it before or after the Beekeeper's Promise, and I hear there is another book "The French for Love" which is set at the same château, so I will leave this decision to you!
This book flowed easily. I really liked Sarah's story and I was not mad at the style of writing, even though I was not a fan of it in "The Beekeeper's Promise".
At first, we meet Sarah right after she's gone in business with her new fiancé. They move from England to France, buy and renovate the Château Bellevue and start running a successful wedding business. Slowly, Sarah's story unravels and we find out about her struggles. She is forced to step up and adapt to all the difficulties, all the while finding friendship and love in the little French village. .
I, also, enjoyed learning a bit more about Eliane's story! We learn so much about the 1940 Eliane in the Beekeeper's Promise and I was excited to know details of modern-day Eliane's life.
While reading this book I truly felt part of the story. I felt as if I was living in Château de Coulliac and I was present to all the weddings! I sympathised with Sarah, and I was cursing at her fiancé! This is something I experienced while reading the Beekeeper's promise, too, and it is the author's amazing ability to make you feel part of her universe.
I totally recommend reading this book. I found it a beautiful getaway from the Covid-19 dystopia the world is experiencing at the moment, especially when we're not allowed to travel.
I'm still not sure whether you should read it before or after the Beekeeper's Promise, and I hear there is another book "The French for Love" which is set at the same château, so I will leave this decision to you!
March 9, 2020
This was an enjoyable read. It is not earth shattering literature, it's a well written romance that isn't smarmy. It is a bit predictable---but, in my experience, I think that is typical in this genre. What I liked about it, was that, WHILE predictable in it's conclusion, there were some lovely surprises along the way.
Without giving anything away, I really expected a different outcome for something hidden. That was unexpected.
Some of the characters were glossed over in characterization,--the twins, the older ladies-yes we learned a little about them, but I can see an entire book just about the Mirielle and her sister. I can really see this novel developed into a series of books utilizing all the people in it. There is enough intrigue to delve into the town, the people, the chateau, the hidden things, the rumors, etc., and to take the story from being not just a romance, but also historical fiction. IF that's what the author chose to do. I found myself wanting to know more. Why was the hidden object put specifically where it was? What was the story behind that?
But, I may just be reading more into it. It was a pleasant, 2 day, easy read and I smiled when it was over.
Without giving anything away, I really expected a different outcome for something hidden. That was unexpected.
Some of the characters were glossed over in characterization,--the twins, the older ladies-yes we learned a little about them, but I can see an entire book just about the Mirielle and her sister. I can really see this novel developed into a series of books utilizing all the people in it. There is enough intrigue to delve into the town, the people, the chateau, the hidden things, the rumors, etc., and to take the story from being not just a romance, but also historical fiction. IF that's what the author chose to do. I found myself wanting to know more. Why was the hidden object put specifically where it was? What was the story behind that?
But, I may just be reading more into it. It was a pleasant, 2 day, easy read and I smiled when it was over.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 17, 2023
Sarah has given up everything including her business in the UK to move to France with her fiancé Gavin at the Chateau Bellevue which has been for the two years, their passionate reform project and high end wedding business. Until Sarah discovers Gavin having his way with a bridesmaid one evening. He leaves then returns demanding his share of the money, leaving Sarah in a predicament. Not only financially but with matters of the heart too, as she soon finds herself entwined in the arms of handsome French man, Tomas..........
Valpy is a beautiful writer. Her stories are always full of love, romance and hope. Her characters are always developed fully and for me personally, I always find myself very drawn to the strong female MCs. In this book, Sarah is portrayed as a no nonsense, strong woman. She has had to be with starting her own business in the UK then relocating to France to take on a castle reform and start a burgeoning business. The best thing that could have happened to her frankly, was the narcissistic Gavin leaving. She is well rid of him.
This book will leave you feeling content, happy and satisfied. You'll definitely have a glow about yourself once you have read this romantic book interspersed with a lot of fun and humour.
Kerry Kennedy Author
Valpy is a beautiful writer. Her stories are always full of love, romance and hope. Her characters are always developed fully and for me personally, I always find myself very drawn to the strong female MCs. In this book, Sarah is portrayed as a no nonsense, strong woman. She has had to be with starting her own business in the UK then relocating to France to take on a castle reform and start a burgeoning business. The best thing that could have happened to her frankly, was the narcissistic Gavin leaving. She is well rid of him.
This book will leave you feeling content, happy and satisfied. You'll definitely have a glow about yourself once you have read this romantic book interspersed with a lot of fun and humour.
Kerry Kennedy Author
January 31, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed ‘The Season of Dreams.’ The story was filled with vibrant dreams for Sara and Gavin, even though some of them took unexpected turns. The stunning chateau in France served as the perfect backdrop, and I found myself enchanted by the captivating weddings and the colorful local characters that came to life on the pages.
Having read ‘The Dressmaker’s Gift’ and ‘The Beekeeper’s Promise’ a few years ago, I almost wished I had revisited them before diving into this adventure. Fortunately, I remembered just enough to fully appreciate this story.
What truly captivated me were the diverse weddings that Sara orchestrated. From a young couple radiating joy to an inspiring older couple, a lovely same-sex couple, and even a rock star duo, each wedding was a delightful exploration of love. I was especially taken with the vintage Dior wedding gown—it was simply priceless! The media frenzy surrounding one couple added an extra layer of excitement.
Sara’s journey of rebuilding her life was incredibly engaging. However, I felt a bit disappointed that the intriguing discovery of an SS jacket didn’t receive the attention it deserved. Despite that, the book was a delightful escape, filled with charm and celebration!
Having read ‘The Dressmaker’s Gift’ and ‘The Beekeeper’s Promise’ a few years ago, I almost wished I had revisited them before diving into this adventure. Fortunately, I remembered just enough to fully appreciate this story.
What truly captivated me were the diverse weddings that Sara orchestrated. From a young couple radiating joy to an inspiring older couple, a lovely same-sex couple, and even a rock star duo, each wedding was a delightful exploration of love. I was especially taken with the vintage Dior wedding gown—it was simply priceless! The media frenzy surrounding one couple added an extra layer of excitement.
Sara’s journey of rebuilding her life was incredibly engaging. However, I felt a bit disappointed that the intriguing discovery of an SS jacket didn’t receive the attention it deserved. Despite that, the book was a delightful escape, filled with charm and celebration!
July 9, 2020
I decided to read this book because Sara is one of the characters in The Beekeper's Promise (she's the current owner of the castle that used to belong to the count that Eliane worked for) and I was hoping to learn more about the castle and its history as well as the latest events in the lives of the wartime characters. Unfortunately, Eliane and her sister Mireille (who's one of the main characters in The Dressmaker's Gift) only appear sporadically and superficially in this book and we don't learn anything more about their lives during the war or even after the war. Without the historical plots that constitute the strength of The Beekeper's Promise and The Dressmaker's Gift, this book reads like any other mindless and somewhat contrived romance novel. The writing is better quality than most books in the romance genre and I suppose it's okay as a mindless beach read, but that genre is really not my cup of tea, hence the two stars (it could be three, but I was disappointed after reading the two historical novels, even though I understand that they were written after this one).
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