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Escape to the French Riviera
When aspiring author Lucy attends a rich friend’s 50th birthday party in glamorous Monaco, she has no idea that her life is about to change forever. Heartsore after a broken marriage, she is not looking for love so when she meets Elias, and he offers to take her sailing on his employer's boat, she agrees only as research for the book she desperately wants to write. They bond over their adult children - who seem to want to clip their wings and force them into living like pensioners - and the chemistry is undeniable.
But is he all he seems? And is she ready to trust again?
But is he all he seems? And is she ready to trust again?
- GenresRomance
Audible Audio
Published February 20, 2025
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34 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
June 10, 2025
I wanted to read a novel set in the French Riviera since I’m going on a trip to the south of France next week. This book got me so excited for it! The culture, the sights, the food; the vibes were great. The story however was kind of boring.
July 18, 2025
A nice light summer story.
February 27, 2025
Escape To The French Riviera by Helga Jensen
4🌟🌟🌟🌟
Second chance romance for a widower Elias and divorcee Lucy, who met in France when Lucy forgets her money at a Market and Elias offers to pay. Although he doesn’t expect repayment and they don’t exchange information they cross paths again. Although Lucy has sworn off dating and trusting men, her and Elias are drawn to each other. The problem each are afraid to completely trust and then add their adult children and things become more complicated. Will Lucy & Elias be able to overcome all these obstacles or will their time in the French Riviera be just a fling?
4🌟🌟🌟🌟
Second chance romance for a widower Elias and divorcee Lucy, who met in France when Lucy forgets her money at a Market and Elias offers to pay. Although he doesn’t expect repayment and they don’t exchange information they cross paths again. Although Lucy has sworn off dating and trusting men, her and Elias are drawn to each other. The problem each are afraid to completely trust and then add their adult children and things become more complicated. Will Lucy & Elias be able to overcome all these obstacles or will their time in the French Riviera be just a fling?
October 31, 2025
This book is perfect for anyone looking for an easy, cute, summer romance read. I like how the grief, trauma, second chance encounter love and getting older has provided a sensible mix for the plot. Hands down to Helga Jensen for saying you can still find love and be loved in your fifties, after a divorce, losing a job and at the same time trying to live your life as how you want it and not because of how the other people around you want it.
January 7, 2025
When aspiring author Lucy attends a rich friend’s 50th birthday party in glamorous Monaco, she has no idea that her life is about to change forever.
Heartsore after a broken marriage, she is not looking for love so when she meets Elias, and he offers to take her sailing on his employer’s boat, she agrees only as research for the book she desperately wants to write. They bond over their adult children – who seem to want to clip their wings and force them into living like pensioners – and the chemistry is undeniable.
But is he all he seems? And is she ready to trust again?
Well another one where Helga has done it again. I adore Helgas books, she is one of the few authors I have read that writes about women in their 50s with such relatable characters. They were so loveable. This later in life romance was a page turner. I laughed in parts and couldn’t put it down. It was heartwarming and addictive.
Lucy was a gorgeous character as were her friends and the more I read the more I was intrigued. I loved the element of Lucy pursuing her dreams of writing a novel and how the path is never smooth but to never give up. The scene was set perfectly in the French Riviera and took me to a descriptive France.
Elias and Lucy’s relationship was written so truthfully showing when families are in involved not everything is always smooth sailing. Their relationship journey was written beautifully and it was interesting to read how they were going to weave through the twists and turns.
I simply didn’t want this book to end and wanted more and more of it.
If you haven’t read one of Helgas books before please make sure you do! All are five star reads and people who have started reading her books after my recommendation also agree! This is one not to be missed and is out on the 20th February.
Heartsore after a broken marriage, she is not looking for love so when she meets Elias, and he offers to take her sailing on his employer’s boat, she agrees only as research for the book she desperately wants to write. They bond over their adult children – who seem to want to clip their wings and force them into living like pensioners – and the chemistry is undeniable.
But is he all he seems? And is she ready to trust again?
Well another one where Helga has done it again. I adore Helgas books, she is one of the few authors I have read that writes about women in their 50s with such relatable characters. They were so loveable. This later in life romance was a page turner. I laughed in parts and couldn’t put it down. It was heartwarming and addictive.
Lucy was a gorgeous character as were her friends and the more I read the more I was intrigued. I loved the element of Lucy pursuing her dreams of writing a novel and how the path is never smooth but to never give up. The scene was set perfectly in the French Riviera and took me to a descriptive France.
Elias and Lucy’s relationship was written so truthfully showing when families are in involved not everything is always smooth sailing. Their relationship journey was written beautifully and it was interesting to read how they were going to weave through the twists and turns.
I simply didn’t want this book to end and wanted more and more of it.
If you haven’t read one of Helgas books before please make sure you do! All are five star reads and people who have started reading her books after my recommendation also agree! This is one not to be missed and is out on the 20th February.
March 17, 2025
Is this a bad book? No, but some reason this didn't hit the mark for me. It started really strong and I the premise of this book. I did like that Lucy was in her fifties.
However. Somewhere in the middle and the end was quite unsatisfactory for me. I felt the relationship between Lucy and Eliot developed to fast. I think their first meeting happens in may and by the end of the summer they were madly in love and was about to start a new life together. For me it felt to nicely wrapped and I felt like the author wanted to finish the book as soon as possible.
The conflict that Lucy and Eliot had felt just a way to drag this book further and it was unnecessary. I think the conflict could have been stronger. I also felt that Eliot's motive wasn't strong enough for hiding the truth.
I mean. I get. If I were to win millions on the lottery I would be hesitant to share. But he tells this to Lucy about this and they then continue their relationship. They go to to France and look at that! He owns a house as well (or if he rented it, I don't remember). But he didn't tell her that and it was annoying how fast Lucy forgave him. Lucy did made it clear to Eliot that she wasn't interested in his money and still he hid it from her. I also felt the whole "I want to write a book" plot could have been more explored. Because in the end it was more "I want to write but I don't have any inspiration" and where is my laptop etc.
Thank you netgalley for this arc and these opinions are my own.
However. Somewhere in the middle and the end was quite unsatisfactory for me. I felt the relationship between Lucy and Eliot developed to fast. I think their first meeting happens in may and by the end of the summer they were madly in love and was about to start a new life together. For me it felt to nicely wrapped and I felt like the author wanted to finish the book as soon as possible.
The conflict that Lucy and Eliot had felt just a way to drag this book further and it was unnecessary. I think the conflict could have been stronger. I also felt that Eliot's motive wasn't strong enough for hiding the truth.
I mean. I get. If I were to win millions on the lottery I would be hesitant to share. But he tells this to Lucy about this and they then continue their relationship. They go to to France and look at that! He owns a house as well (or if he rented it, I don't remember). But he didn't tell her that and it was annoying how fast Lucy forgave him. Lucy did made it clear to Eliot that she wasn't interested in his money and still he hid it from her. I also felt the whole "I want to write a book" plot could have been more explored. Because in the end it was more "I want to write but I don't have any inspiration" and where is my laptop etc.
Thank you netgalley for this arc and these opinions are my own.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 29, 2025
In this fun and charming new romance novel, readers follow aspiring author Lucy at a birthday party in Monaco which might just change her life. Recovering from the end of her marriage and looking for a new start, Elias’s offer to take her sailing on his employer’s boat is merely a chance for research for her book, but they end up bonding over their challenges with their adult children and the growing chemistry between them. With strange things happening and secrets and drama appearing throughout this idyllic Monaco vacation, Lucy must decide if she really is looking for love again or if what happens in Monaco, stays in Monaco. Charming, funny, and entertaining, the characters in this novel are the absolute stars with their complex personalities, great relationships with other characters, and realistic challenges. The setting of Monaco offers drama, intrigue, and excitement, and it frames the larger story and the dramatic elements perfectly. Well-written and heartwarming, readers will also love Lucy’s growth over the course of the novel, and her interactions with her friends and Elias really allow her to shine and heal. A great summery romance novel, fans of the genre will love the glitz and glam of Monaco and the heartwarming plot.
Thanks to NetGalley and Hera Books for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Hera Books for the advance copy.
February 25, 2025
Escape to the French Riviera
by Helga Jensen
This enchanting book is a delightful journey—a true feel-good romance that captivated me from the very first page. It was my first read of Helga Jensen's writing, and I was thoroughly impressed by her ability to weave together an engaging narrative.
The story revolves around Lucy, an aspiring author, who finds herself at a lavish 50th birthday party in the stunning setting of Monaco. Surrounded by opulence and glamour, she is blissfully unaware that this extravagant event will lead to a transformation in her life. Initially, Lucy is not searching for love, but when she meets the charming Elias, her perspective begins to shift. He invites her to experience the thrill of sailing on his employer's luxurious yacht, and she eagerly accepts—seeing it as a perfect opportunity for inspiration in her writing.
What truly captivated me was the remarkable character development of Lucy throughout the book. Jensen expertly guides us through her journey, allowing us to witness her growth as she navigates unexpected feelings and newfound possibilities. The novel beautifully balances romance, self-discovery, and the allure of the French Riviera, making it an unforgettable read.
by Helga Jensen
This enchanting book is a delightful journey—a true feel-good romance that captivated me from the very first page. It was my first read of Helga Jensen's writing, and I was thoroughly impressed by her ability to weave together an engaging narrative.
The story revolves around Lucy, an aspiring author, who finds herself at a lavish 50th birthday party in the stunning setting of Monaco. Surrounded by opulence and glamour, she is blissfully unaware that this extravagant event will lead to a transformation in her life. Initially, Lucy is not searching for love, but when she meets the charming Elias, her perspective begins to shift. He invites her to experience the thrill of sailing on his employer's luxurious yacht, and she eagerly accepts—seeing it as a perfect opportunity for inspiration in her writing.
What truly captivated me was the remarkable character development of Lucy throughout the book. Jensen expertly guides us through her journey, allowing us to witness her growth as she navigates unexpected feelings and newfound possibilities. The novel beautifully balances romance, self-discovery, and the allure of the French Riviera, making it an unforgettable read.
January 11, 2025
It's not often that I don't get on with a book set in such a glamorous location. but I just did not enjoy the writing style of this novel. It felt like a non-stop stream of consciousness of a slightly neurotic 50 year old woman. I know it was billed as a 'later in life' romance but I felt like Lucy, the heroine just let herself be completely walked all over, first by her ex-husband, then her children and finally the supposed love interest. The only thing believable was Lucy's friends, Soraya and Carol. The plotline was repetitive and totally unrealistic. She was supposed to be writing a book but we didn't really hear much about this - I think it would have been much more interesting if some of the things she was writing were mirrored in the bigger story. I persevered with it because I thought there might be some change by the end but unfortunately, in my opinion, it just didn't come. Thanks to the publishers and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. 2.5 rounded to 3.
March 25, 2025
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐.5/5
Escape to the French Riviera by Helga Jensen is the perfect getaway in book form, transporting readers to the sun-soaked shores of Monaco, France. The story follows a woman seeking a fresh start in her career as a writer while on holiday in one of the most glamorous destinations in the world. An unexpected encounter with a stranger who offers to help with her writing sets the stage for an interesting journey.
With vivid descriptions of charming locations in France, this book beautifully builds up a romance that captivates readers, making them feel as if they are living inside the story. The author introduces a diverse cast of characters, adding depth and making the narrative more engaging while also exploring deeper themes such as the power of friendship and family bonds.
This book is perfect for readers who enjoy vivid settings, heartwarming romance, and stories that explore the power of friendship and family bonds.
Escape to the French Riviera by Helga Jensen is the perfect getaway in book form, transporting readers to the sun-soaked shores of Monaco, France. The story follows a woman seeking a fresh start in her career as a writer while on holiday in one of the most glamorous destinations in the world. An unexpected encounter with a stranger who offers to help with her writing sets the stage for an interesting journey.
With vivid descriptions of charming locations in France, this book beautifully builds up a romance that captivates readers, making them feel as if they are living inside the story. The author introduces a diverse cast of characters, adding depth and making the narrative more engaging while also exploring deeper themes such as the power of friendship and family bonds.
This book is perfect for readers who enjoy vivid settings, heartwarming romance, and stories that explore the power of friendship and family bonds.
February 11, 2025
Even though I find the title and the cover of this book very beautiful, I found its content very weak. The story follows fifty-two year-old Lucy who goes in the south of France to celebrate her best friend's birthday. There, she meets a mysterious man called Elias and they have an instant connection.
The story in itself was fine and enjoyable, but the characters were awful, especially the main character, Lucy. She acted so gullible, not like she is 52 but 12. I found the dialogue weak and cringey, and even the love interest was really bad and didn't treat her well.
I could say that I am not the target audience of this book, but I have enjoyed so many books and authors in this genre. I would still give the author another chance, she has potential, but I also think she needs to hone her craft.
The story in itself was fine and enjoyable, but the characters were awful, especially the main character, Lucy. She acted so gullible, not like she is 52 but 12. I found the dialogue weak and cringey, and even the love interest was really bad and didn't treat her well.
I could say that I am not the target audience of this book, but I have enjoyed so many books and authors in this genre. I would still give the author another chance, she has potential, but I also think she needs to hone her craft.
January 10, 2025
4⭐️
I thought this was a great book, it was definitely a feel good romance book. This was my first time reading a book by Helga Jensen and I was very impressed with her writing! I loved how throughout the whole book we saw so much character development with Lucy the main character. I thought Helga did an amazing job at capturing how it can be difficult dating after a divorce or losing a partner because family is always a big factor. I didn’t know how I was going to feel about reading a book with main characters who I do not relate to with their lives and situations. But this was the perfect feel good romance books that leave you smiling at the end.
Thank you to NetGalley for access to the ARC for an honest review.
I thought this was a great book, it was definitely a feel good romance book. This was my first time reading a book by Helga Jensen and I was very impressed with her writing! I loved how throughout the whole book we saw so much character development with Lucy the main character. I thought Helga did an amazing job at capturing how it can be difficult dating after a divorce or losing a partner because family is always a big factor. I didn’t know how I was going to feel about reading a book with main characters who I do not relate to with their lives and situations. But this was the perfect feel good romance books that leave you smiling at the end.
Thank you to NetGalley for access to the ARC for an honest review.
February 17, 2025
A lovely getaway of a book. An entertaining, easy-to-read second chance romance. This book was fun. Lavish yachts, glamorous Monaco, casinos of Monte Carlo, and traveling in Saint Tropez were a fascinating setting to fall in love. Lucy found herself in a fairytale among the rich lifestyle. Lucy and Elias were so good together. It was heartwarming. Characters are relatable and realistic. Their concerns are genuine when life takes an unexpected turn. We can never guess, at what stage of our lives, we'll find our happily ever after. Overall, it's a good uplifting book.
Thanks to the author, @Netgalley, and the publisher for the eARC.
Thanks to the author, @Netgalley, and the publisher for the eARC.
March 18, 2025
After reading this book I'm left feeling confused and unsettled. Like, is that really the end??
What I loved: the setting in Monaco is magnificent! I'd stay there in a heartbeat and have the best holiday! The sisterhood of women is fabulous. Girlfriends are so important as we age.
What left me feeling meh: the main characters. Both are wishy washy. They both let their adult kids rule their lives. I kept wanting to say get a backbone, especially to Lucy. Stop letting people walk all over you. Would like to have a deeper development of each of the main characters and their relationship.
Overall, it was a cute rom com with a middle aged couple. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
What I loved: the setting in Monaco is magnificent! I'd stay there in a heartbeat and have the best holiday! The sisterhood of women is fabulous. Girlfriends are so important as we age.
What left me feeling meh: the main characters. Both are wishy washy. They both let their adult kids rule their lives. I kept wanting to say get a backbone, especially to Lucy. Stop letting people walk all over you. Would like to have a deeper development of each of the main characters and their relationship.
Overall, it was a cute rom com with a middle aged couple. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2025
A nice change for me - this book is about three mid life friends who escaped to the French Riviera to celebrate a 50th birthday. One of them meets a man who charms and woos her. Since her seperation and divorce, she has no inclination towards a new relationship and has major trust issues. When this new man isnt totally truthful with her, she abondons the relationship. A second breach of trust happens but will their love and attraction overcome the challanges of trust and their adult children?
Good reading.
Good reading.
October 16, 2025
This is a good book. The two main characters are Lucy and Elias. Lucy is a divorced mother of two girls and an unknown author. Elias is a widow with two sons. They meet at the grocery store when Lucy runs to get some milk for some coffee, but forgets her wallet. Elias is behind her in line and offers to pay for it. They see each other several times while Lucy is on a girl trip for one of her best friend’s birthday. They are having trouble with their teenagers who don’t want their parent dating. They fall in love.
January 30, 2025
Another great read from this author love how they write about relatable characters and issues and also write books about women in their 50s and show how life can begin at 50 and that it is possible to be given a second chance in life.
This was a perfect me pick up and feel good good uplifting read.
This was a perfect me pick up and feel good good uplifting read.
March 12, 2025
Thoroughly Enjoyed!
I love these books , set in the South of France., and feel like I've had a bit of a trip by the time I'm finished! Also enjoy that this is about older people, not. twenty something's!!!
I love these books , set in the South of France., and feel like I've had a bit of a trip by the time I'm finished! Also enjoy that this is about older people, not. twenty something's!!!
January 22, 2025
I adored this book from start to finish. I love Helgas books, they are so relatable and characters that you love.
May 18, 2025
Feel Good Story
I loved this story, I've read all of Helga's books and I think this may be my favourite so far
I loved this story, I've read all of Helga's books and I think this may be my favourite so far
June 26, 2025
Easy to read, chick lit - ideal for a holiday - just a very sudden end but did enjoy it.
September 6, 2025
Fijne feelgood
July 18, 2025
This book follows Lucy, an aspiring author who attends a wealthy friend’s 50th birthday party in Monaco. Still healing from a broken marriage, she isn’t looking for love. However, when she meets Elias, a charming man who invites her sailing on his employer’s boat, she agrees—seeing it as an opportunity for book research rather than romance. As they spend time together, they bond over their adult children, who seem intent on limiting their independence. The chemistry between them is undeniable, but Lucy soon questions whether Elias is truly who he seems. More importantly, is she ready to open her heart again?
Jensen delivers a heartwarming and engaging later-in-life romance with well-developed, relatable characters. Lucy is an inspiring protagonist, and her journey—both as a writer and someone learning to trust again—feels authentic. The romance with Elias is written realistically, highlighting the challenges of dating with adult children in the picture. The setting in the French Riviera adds a rich, atmospheric backdrop, and the novel’s balance of humor, warmth, and heartfelt moments makes it an enjoyable read. Fans of uplifting, second-chance romances will appreciate this compelling and beautifully told story.
Jensen delivers a heartwarming and engaging later-in-life romance with well-developed, relatable characters. Lucy is an inspiring protagonist, and her journey—both as a writer and someone learning to trust again—feels authentic. The romance with Elias is written realistically, highlighting the challenges of dating with adult children in the picture. The setting in the French Riviera adds a rich, atmospheric backdrop, and the novel’s balance of humor, warmth, and heartfelt moments makes it an enjoyable read. Fans of uplifting, second-chance romances will appreciate this compelling and beautifully told story.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews