From Provence, with Love

A Year in France #2

by Alison Roberts

A dreamy, escapist cosy romance by Alison Roberts, perfect for fans of Gillian Harvey, Kate Frost and Lucy Coleman A lifechanging encounter, a whirlwind affair... an unexpected consequence

Laura Gilchrist has always made sensible choices. But a trip to Provence to sell an inherited stone house leads her face to face with Noah Dufour. Her wild, irresistibly attractive real estate agent. And within an instant she’s bewitched. Without a second thought, she decides she’s going to accept his offer to ride on the back of his motorbike and see the beauty of the South of France though his eyes. She’s never acted on impulse before, but Noah makes her feel spontaneous and free – and a little bit excited.

Weeks later, with the memories of their passionate fling refusing to fade, Laura waits for her life to return to normal. But she can’t shake the feeling something has changed. And then her instincts are confirmed by the sight of two blue lines. Their connection was a whirlwind; perfect yet brief. But Noah has become a chink in her buttoned up armour and she knows her news is going to blindside him. Now she must return to Provence to find out whether they can both take a leap of faith based on one brief yet perfect holiday romance…

A dreamy, escapist and uplifting romance, perfect for fans of Gillian Havey, Victoria Springfield and Jennifer Bohnet

Praise for Alison Roberts

'A beautifully written romantic escape to Provence with endearing characters.' Jennifer Bohnet

Ooh la la! A sexy French single dad doctor, an old house in need of a little TLC, a cute dog and even a pair of donkeys - what more do you need for a heartwarming escape to pretty Provence? Victoria Springfield

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️I loved everything about this book. The storyline, characters, and ending. It will not disappoint! Reader Review

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️An evocative and uplifting escapist story. Reader Review

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 'I didn’t want it to end, Highly recommended. Ten stars’ Reader Review

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 'Thoroughly enjoyable. Highly recommend. One of the best romance novels I’ve read Reader Review

Genres: Romance

298 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 25, 2025

About the author

I was born and raised in Dunedin, New Zealand, but had my first year of school in London, UK and the second in Washington DC. I became a primary school teacher and began writing when I was living in Glasgow, Scotland for two years and teachers were all on strike. My first novel was a medical thriller with a good dash of romance thrown in.
I have now written well over a hundred romance novels with more than a dash of medicine thrown in. I love weaving the emotional journey of a love story through the background drama the medical world can provide. I also love the rabbit holes I can go down in the name of research.
Above all, I love romance. And a happy ending!

Reviews

[Sheila · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received a free copy of, From Provence, With Love, by Alison Roberts, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Laura Gilchrist went to France to sell an inherited house, not to fall in love and become pregnant, but things happen. I enjoyed this read, going to France and England. Enjoyable characters and story.

[Sudeshna Banerjee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is book two in the series. While it can be read as a standalone, the first book would be beneficial. From Provence, With Love is a heartwarming and delightful romance that takes readers on a journey through the beautiful settings of Southern France. The people in this novel are well-written, with Alison Roberts being superb at making them seem real and believable. The characters are engaging, all with their own vulnerabilities and emotional issues, which they struggle to overcome as the novel progresses. Their growth is realistic, with subtle changes that mirror their progress toward healing and connection. The supporting characters enhance the story, providing moments of humor and revelation that add depth to the novel overall.

The author's style is both evocative and elegant, creating a detailed picture of the Southern France milieu while transporting readers into the characters' emotional domains. Her text finds a happy medium between beauty of description and clarity of story, making sure that the tale moves well. The dialogue feels natural and enthralling and is frequently mixed with wit and warmth, providing depth to character interactions. My favorite scene is at lavender fields; the food descriptions were so lush that I felt myself inhaling the fragrance of lavender. Although we also have descriptions of food which I appreciated, the setting dominates. At its essence, From Provence, With Love is a tale of love, strength, and the heart to love once more after heartbreak. The novel also uncovers themes of self-discovery, forgiveness, and the magic of kindness and connection. Roberts presents these through the characters on a subtle basis, making the novel resonate to a very emotive extent.

The author uses a variety of literary devices to heighten the storytelling, such as rich imagery, symbolism, and strategically placed moments of reflection. The Provençal landscape is used not just as background but also as metaphor for resurrection and beauty where least expected. The tempo is carefully calibrated, with moments of tension and release that keep readers engaged with the story. The pace of the book is even and compelling, with a logical development that makes readers fully invested in the characters and their process. The organization is sound, with chapters flowing into one another easily and progressing to a good resolution. Roberts' easy writing makes the book pleasant for readers of all tastes, from lovers of contemporary romance to those who appreciate a moving and reflective book.

From Provence, With Love is a well-crafted and emotionally fulfilling novel that conveys the spirit of love and rebirth. Alison Roberts' skill in crafting memorable characters, a rich setting, and an emotional tale makes this book a gem among romance novels. Although some readers might want more sensational plot turns, the strength of the novel lies in its emotional truthfulness and the subtle beauty of its narrative. Although the romance is somewhat insta, there isn't any pretension about it. Additionally, sufficient emotions are incorporated into the scenes to temper the pace somewhat. I'm glad they did this. I would strongly recommend From Provence, With Love to anyone who likes uplifting and character-based romances against stunning backdrops.

[Srivalli (Semi-Hiatus) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars

One Liner: Touching!

Laura Gilchrist makes sensible choices and follows the rules. She doesn’t have time for fun and is wary of love after having to grow up fast. However, the laidback and irresistible Noah Dufour, the real estate agent who handles their inherited property makes her a little more impulsive.

Laura decides a weekend romance fling would get it out of her system. Back home, she tries to return to her routine only to find out that the fling led to an unexpected pregnancy. Now, Laura goes back to South France to see if there’s more to their connection and whether it can survive the new developments.

The story comes in Laura (more %) and Noah’s third-person POVs.

My Thoughts:

This is the second book in the series. Though it works as a standalone, reading the first book might help.

It is divided into three parts. The first part and a solid portion of the second occur parallel with the first book. They share the same timeline but here the focus is on the other sister. There might be a bit of repetition but since we see it from Laura’s POV, it works (and fills the gaps for those who didn’t read book #1).

I love, love the description of the setting. South France sounds so beautiful with its old-world charm and nature's bounty. The scene at lavender fields is my favorite; the descriptions were so vivid that I could feel myself breathing in the scent of lavender. My sister went on a short vacay and sent me a video of her on a lavender farm right after I finished this book, so guess it became even more special. While we also get details of food which I liked, the location takes the spotlight.

Laura’s arc in the first book, especially at the beginning doesn’t do her much favor. We see her soft side later but this one reveals her layers wonderfully. Seeing her love for her little sister is like a warm hug. Her vulnerability is well presented, making it easy to empathize with her.

Noah is easy enough to like though he does make you want to whack sense into his head at times. However, he is a good guy and he steps up when necessary. He has a sad backstory which shows he is not an idiot; just someone afraid.

While the romance is a bit insta, there’s no pretense about it. Moreover, enough emotions are woven into the scenes to slightly slow the pace. I appreciate this decision.

I’m a bit surprised that there’s no real progress on the overarching plot. I thought there would be some development. Maybe it’ll have more focus in book three. Also, we know almost nothing about the other sister, Fiona, so her book will be interesting.

To summarize, From Provence, With Love is a heartwarming story set in a beautiful location. While it is primarily a romance, the parts that appealed the most to me were family bonds and personal growth.

Thank you, Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.

#NetGalley

[OnlyaDreamNow x Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

L'émerveillement – the only word I can use to describe this book

From Provence with Love is the first book I have read by Alison Roberts, but it certainly won’t be the last. It has been a little while since I have read a book that has so viscerally touched the deepest, most hidden parts of me 🤎

Book rating: 5/5 ⭐
Tropes: Reverse grumpy x sunshine, surprise pregnancy, forced proximity, meet-cute
Spice: non-descriptive, bordering on closed door romance.

From Provence with Love follows Laura and Noah, both real-estate agents at the top of their game, but with completely different approaches to life. While Laura is controlled, safe and restrained, Noah is the biker who is wild and charming to boot, with the motto of living in the moment.

From their first meet, they have an undeniable attraction towards one another. One could put it down to the magic and beauty of France, but through their journey, we see deeper into the characters' individual pain, their lives, and how it has closed them off to feeling anything deeper for anybody than a passing fancy. However, fate has different plans for the two, and a surprise pregnancy forces them to face their demons, and admit truths both to themselves and to each other.

As I travailed with the characters through Lavender fields, picturesque medieval villages, and breathtaking restaurants, I found myself falling in love with not only the characters, this author, and France, but also… with life. Laura’s personality and pain, in many ways mimic my own, and to see her come into her own, listen to the voice that truly matters, and find herself after years of restraining her joy, released a contented sigh from the weariest parts of my soul.

Being acclimated to fast-paced, instant physical intimacy, dark romance books, I found myself initially struggling to get through the first 20 percent of the book despite it’s INCREDIBLE first chapter. However, once I passed my own personal slump I was able to fully immerse and escape into this world. This book is one that forces you to slow down. To relish each word. TO savour each moment. To admire each setting. To dive into the magic and fantasy of a love in a foreign land that was always meant to be. And while this book has all the elements of a contemporary romance novel (the meet-cute, reverse grumpy x sunshine, etc.,) the author’s elegant and classical prose sets it apart. It is clear that the author is in love with France and describes the smallest details with great love and care.

And reflected in that, is the way that life is meant to be lived. To relish and savour each moment, to notice the small details and find happiness in the state of just being in a beautiful place, surrounded by the one thing that has the ability to heal, strengthen, and sustain all life’s difficulties - Love.

Thank you to NETGALLEY and to Alison Roberts and her team, for generously providing me with an e-arc in exchange for an honest review

[Meg Pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

From Provence, With Love is a tender, heartfelt romance that perfectly blends family, self-discovery, and second chances. This is the second book in Alison Roberts’ Gilchrist sisters series, but it can easily be enjoyed as a standalone. For readers who followed Ellie’s story in the first book, it is a joy to now see her older sister Laura take the spotlight.

Laura Gilchrist is a woman who has built her life around order and control. A successful real estate agent, she has always valued structure and responsibility over impulsiveness. When she travels to Provence to handle the sale of an inherited stone cottage, her practical plans are immediately disrupted by Noah Dufour, the charming French realtor who tempts her to step outside her carefully guarded boundaries. Noah is magnetic, adventurous, and unexpectedly vulnerable, and he draws Laura into a whirlwind romance that lingers long after she returns home.

What makes this novel stand out is the depth Roberts gives to her characters. Laura’s struggles with her past, her fear of rejection, and her fierce loyalty to her family feel authentic and relatable. Noah is more than a handsome love interest. His complexity, shaped by loss and heartbreak, makes him a grounded and sympathetic hero. Their chemistry is undeniable, but what truly pulls the reader in is the way they challenge one another to confront old wounds and open themselves up to change.

The setting in Provence is beautifully drawn, and Roberts captures its essence in vivid detail. The lavender fields, sun-warmed stone villages, and leisurely meals shared outdoors create an atmosphere that is both romantic and transporting. The setting is more than just a backdrop, it becomes part of the story’s emotional texture. It represents a place of healing, beauty, and rediscovery for Laura.

The novel is well-paced, moving seamlessly from the intense beginning of Laura and Noah’s relationship through the challenges that follow, including a life-changing discovery that forces both characters to reconsider what they thought they wanted. Themes of family, forgiveness, and resilience are woven throughout, grounding the romance in emotional truth.

Roberts’ writing is elegant and engaging, striking a balance between warmth and realism. Her dialogue feels natural, often tinged with humor, while her descriptions of Provence create a sensory richness that draws the reader in. Readers who appreciate romances built on both passion and emotional growth will find this story especially satisfying.

From Provence, With Love is a beautifully told romance that captures both the magic of falling in love and the courage it takes to risk your heart. It is a story that lingers, not only because of the enchanting Provençal setting but because of its deeply human characters and their journey toward love and acceptance.

[Clairelettersandmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

From Provence with Love is a charming and emotionally resonant romance set in the picturesque south of France. Laura and Noah, both at the top of their game as real estate agents, are polar opposites in personality. Laura is controlled and cautious, while Noah is a carefree biker who lives in the moment. Their undeniable chemistry leads to a compelling story filled with heartfelt moments and self-discovery.

Their journey starts with a playful meet-cute and unfolds into something deeper as a surprise pregnancy forces them to confront their fears, past traumas, and hidden truths. What sets this book apart is how it doesn’t just explore romantic love but also delves into personal growth and emotional healing.

As someone living in the south of France, I can vouch for the authenticity of the setting. The lavender fields, medieval villages, and cozy restaurants are described so vividly they feel like stepping into a postcard. The environment becomes a character in its own right, perfectly complementing the characters’ growth and the magic of their journey.

While the story shines with its heartfelt moments and believable setting, it occasionally feels slightly predictable, which is why I’ve rated it 4 stars instead of 5. Still, Laura’s transformation and the realistic emotional depth of her and Noah’s relationship make it a thoroughly enjoyable read.

For readers who love slow-burn romance with beautiful backdrops, deep emotional arcs, and light on-the-page spice, From Provence with Love is a delightful escape. It’s a story that reminds us of the beauty of second chances and the healing power of love.

[Marg · Rating 4 out of 5]

Last year I read Falling for Provence by Alison Roberts and at the end of it I was really hoping that we would get to read more about the sisters in the story. Luckily for me, we do, and this is Laura's story.

Laura Gilchrist is a woman in control. She's a successful real estate agent who is charge of her own life, organised and efficient, and who knows what she wants and what she doesn't. After inheriting a share in a run-down cottage in France, what she wants right now is to get it done up and sold. If that means that she has to be in communication with the absolutely gorgeous, motor bike riding French realtor Noah Dufour then so be it. And if that communication turns into flirtation, and that flirtation turns into a whirlwind weekend affair, then again, c'est la vie.

Whilst their weekend affair is brief, it is also intense and they cover a variety of subjects including the fact that neither of them want children. So when Laura realises that she has accidentally fallen pregnant she isn't looking forward to telling him, especially not over the phone, and she also needs to come to terms with her own change in priorities as well.

When Laura has to travel to France for a family celebration, she has the opportunity to tell him face to face, and he pretty much reacts as expected. However, while I realise that sentence probably makes him sound a bit insensitive, which he is, he also has his reasons and as he works through his past traumas and heartbreaks hopefully he will see sense.




To read more head to

[Lily · Rating 3 out of 5]

In this funny and charming new romance novel, readers return to Provence where Laura Gilchrist is heading to sell an inherited stone house and make the sensible choice. However, the real estate agent Noah Dufour is much too attractive, and Laura starts making some wild decisions -- like traveling through the South of France to see what this part of the world is like and starting a passionate and emotional fling with him. However, after she returns home, Laura’s life does not return to normal -- and it’s not merely a mental thing -- so a return to Provence to speak with Noah one last time might end their relationship or transform it entirely. Charming, funny, and romantic, this novel is entertaining and perfectly summery, as Roberts has captured the atmosphere of a holiday (and holiday romance) perfectly in this new novel. The characters are the star of the novel, and Laura and Noah’s relationship is particularly enjoyable, as they challenge each other and themselves throughout. With its fantastic setting acting as the perfect holiday and romance backdrop, readers will love this new romance novel for the drama, the emotions, and the chemistry between the two main characters, and they’ll be unable to put it down.

Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.

[Nana · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was nice going back to the south of France and seeing Laura Gilchrist, Ellie's sister. Ellie, Laura and Fiona have inherited an old stone house in Provence called La Maisonette from an uncle they didn't know.
Laura went back to the south of France to help an estate agent, Noah Dufour, sell the stone house. She came back one way, but as she was there, she started changing. She was always in control of everything, and had a difficult time accepting the person she was becoming. The story will take us through Laura's journey of basically being two people and seeing which person wins out. As Noah said to her, don't stop listening to your heart, and let the Laura back out that you buried. I enjoyed reading this story about all that she went through, and all that she had buried come to the surface, You will have to read the book to find out what happens. This is book 2, and her sister Ellie is in the story a lot and also the donkeys.
I received an ARC from Boldwood Books through Net Galley.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌄Gorgeous setting, enticing romance😍

Laura and Noah, two real estate professionals from either side of the English Channel with a definite desire to escape the bonds of love and marriage, made a great couple.

I read the earlier book about Laura's younger sister Ellie and found her romantic match a bit more likable, but author Alison Roberts has provided a sexy, handsome, Harley-riding hero and, kicking and screaming along the way or not, he kept the "will he or won't he" quandary about succumbing to love going just fine. The story is emotion driven, the main protagonists in their thirties and old enough to know their own minds, and I really enjoyed the read.

Plus, Noah escorts Laura on jaunts around Vence and the Provence countryside. The descriptions, as I am sure the author anticipated, made me want to sample me a bit of the Provencale life, too.

Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.

[Jane Hunt · Rating 5 out of 5]

Laura is the older of the Gilchrest sisters, responsible, organised, and in control until she meets Noah, the estate agent who advises on preparing the sisters' inherited cottage for sale. Noah has a bad-boy vibe and appears to be her opposite, but the attraction is undeniable and mutual. The sizzling romance builds to a short-lived but passionate affair. The couple both had issues in their childhood that made trusting others challenging. It explores grief loss and trust. It is the second in this series of books set in Provence, and it's emotional and heartbreaking but ultimately heartwarming and hopeful. Laura and Noah's romance is passionate, but the emotional commitment is slow-burn and full of angst. The Provence setting is integral to the story and lyrically described. I like the characters, the family drama and the lovely setting.
.I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

[Kaveesha Bandara · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Falling for Provence by Alison Roberts takes readers on a heartwarming journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Provence. In this book, Ellie Gilchrist finds herself in the south of France, where she hopes to sell her inherited stone house. But when she crosses paths with a charming local, Noah Dufour, her plans take an unexpected turn, leading to a beautiful, slow-burn romance.

The novel is full of charming, vivid descriptions of southern France, which I enjoyed immensely. The characters were well-developed and given emotional depth, making the story feel more realistic.

This book is perfect for readers who love cozy, feel-good romances with a strong sense of place and a touch of wanderlust.

Thank you to the publisher, author, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book! 😊

[Haney Hayes Promotions · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is tailor-made for readers who revel in emotionally resonant stories that explore the transformative power of love. Follow the journeys of guarded hearts as they navigate the uncharted waters of impulsive, life-altering romances. Set against breathtakingly picturesque backdrops, these tales will capture your imagination and leave you yearning for more. The vivid imagery and evocative prose will transport you into a world where love conquers all, and the possibilities are endless. If you enjoy stories that delve deep into the human experience and celebrate the enduring power of love, then this book is for you.

[Vanessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

From Provence, With Love by Alison Roberts was an excellent book and I loved it. It was a book that will take you to sunny France, You meet Laura Gilchrist who travels to France to sell an inherited house. But, things happens and she did not expect to fall in love and then become pregnant,
It was a book that had me gripped from the beginning till the end, It was a lovely read and I loved the way Alison wrote this book its a superb read and great for your holidays.

I highly recommend . . . I loved it

[Jen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second in a trilogy about the Gilchrist sisters and is just as romantic and delightful as the previous book. Laura Gilchrist has always been very sensible but after meeting real estate agent Noah Dufour all that goes out of the window. Drawn to Noah she starts to be spontaneous and embarks on a fling with Noah. After returning to Scotland Laura’s life then takes on another twist when two blue lines appear on a pregnancy test……….. I found that I really liked the characters in this and couldn’t wait to find out how it was all going to develop and end.

[Mahnoor Lasania · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the earlier book about Laura's younger sister Ellie and found her romantic match a bit more likable, but author Alison Roberts has provided a sexy, handsome, Harley-riding hero and, kicking and screaming along the way or not, he kept the "will he or won't he" quandary about succumbing to love going just fine. The story is emotion-driven, the main protagonists are in their thirties and old enough to know their own minds, and I really enjoyed the read. Plus, the descriptions, as I am sure the author anticipated, made me want to sample a bit of the life in Provence, too.

[Dawn Probert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another gorgeous lavender scented read. Reading about the Gilchrist sisters is a joy. It was lovely to get another book instalment. I hope the next one is Fiona’s and then Jeannie too.
Laura was such a string character, feminist, powerful, career driven and forceful. When she nears Noah and the sparks fly she gets scared. Noah does too but love doesn’t have rules. Then fate intervenes after one night together. Thank you NetGalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley, Boldwood Books, and the author for the chance to read this book.

This was an easy story to read full of joy and sorrow. Laura and Noah both have reasons for not wanting to get entangled in the long term but can't resist a short holiday romance.
They have a tumultuous journey, and both have to work through so much.
The scenery was enticing and well described to make you feel like you were there.

[Rona · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an Arc from Netgalley and the publisher.
I read falling for Provence and really loved it this follows the other sister.
I honestly didn't enjoy this one as much.
It is well written and has colourful descriptions but I just wasn't taken by it.
I didn't dislike it and I am sure others will love it. I just preferred Ellie's story.

[JANE SHEPPARD · Rating 5 out of 5]

Falling in love with France

Was a bit of a slow start, but that was mainly because it had been a long time since I read the first book in series and I needed to remind myself of characters and story.But once I'd done that absolutely loved it and couldn't put it down.I'm now going to buy the next book in series.

[Eris · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good book. The two main characters are Laura and Noah. There is an instant attraction. They meet when Laura and her sister come to France, where their uncle has left them a cottage. Noah is the real estate agent who is going to sell the cottage. Laura comes back tonFrance to check on her sister. They start dating. They each have issues but together they fall in love.

[Jean E. Corbin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Truly a Love Story!

Funny how things from our own upbringing keep us from enjoying life to it's fullest. Julia and Noah had both been hurt, and both felt they would live life alone. Enjoy the process of seeing them both realise what their heart really wants!!

[judith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A wonderful emotional story, the second in the series. It followed on beautifully from book one. The story was heartfelt and the description of the towns in France will have you researching your next holiday, if not a permanent move.
I can’t wait to read book 3.

[Theresa L. Crandell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful romantic story

I loved how the characters were able to finally realize the love they had for each other. The way they were able to work through past pains, and help each other heal touched my heart.

[Kay Hart · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very enjoyable summer read during the current heatwave.

[Janet · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

[Riley K. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it

[Susan Hutchinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Enjoyed it

[Marjan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ook deel twee is leuk dus nu door naar het laatste deel

[Annette Acker · Rating 5 out of 5]

super

A great book like a warm hug it became an excellent story . A really strong woman character and a French adventure too super story .