Ellie erft een oud stenen huis in de Provence. Het is precies het duwtje dat ze nodig heeft om wat afstand te nemen van haar verdriet. Maar wanneer ze aankomt bij het vervallen 'La Maisonette', vraagt ze zich af of ze een vergissing heeft gemaakt.
Totdat ze haar afgezonderde buurman Julien en zijn schattige zoontje ontmoet. Tot haar verrassing voelt ze weer vlinders in haar buik, iets wat ze nooit meer had verwacht te voelen. En als ze ook nog een zwerfhond redt, heeft ze de broodnodige afleiding die ze zocht. Ellie besluit een tijdje te blijven om het kleine huisje op te knappen. Als ze tenminste de vonken kan negeren die telkens overslaan wanneer Julien in de buurt is.
Beiden willen hun hart beschermen, maar een korte affaire kan toch geen kwaad? Zeker niet als Ellie aangeeft na de zomer te vertrekken. Maar de charme van deze Franse streek heeft haar betoverd, waardoor weggaan steeds moeilijker wordt.
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!
One Liner: Nice… has some loose ends (first in the series)
When the Gilchrist sisters inherit an old house in Provence, it allows Ellie to focus on something other than her grief. The old stone house and its messy garden ignite a tiny spark she thought she had lost forever.
When Ellie meets her neighbor, Julien, it is not a meet-cute moment but still sends out some sparks. However, both of them are dealing with a sad past and are wary about letting another person into their lives. Julien cannot risk his three-year-old son, Theo, facing another disappointment.
But Provence has something else in store for them. After all, it’s a place to hope for a brighter future.
The story comes in Ellie and Julien’s third-person POVs.
My Thoughts:
The plot development stays true to the genre but manages to throw in a couple of twists. Of course, I didn’t take this hoping for an intricate plot.
For me, the setting is the focus. The book scores well in this aspect. The beauty of Provence comes alive on the pages without distracting from the plot. Ellie’s artistic talent (painting), her gradual growth, and the beauty of the setting blend seamlessly.
The dual POV, though we get fewer scenes from the MMC, makes it easy to see his thought process and feelings. I liked how much he loved his little son (even if the kiddo doesn’t get a lot of space due to valid reasons).
Animal lovers will be delighted to find two donkeys and a cute doggy in this one. They have names too!
(The series tag on GR wasn't updated when I read the book) If I had known earlier about the series, I’d have gone in prepared for the family track to stay in the background without resolution. Since I didn’t, I was annoyed to see the book end with many unanswered questions. At least now I know these are likely to be answered in the next two books (Ellie has two sisters – Laura and Fiona).
Quite a few elements are convenient and happen easily but that’s expected of the genre, so I didn’t mind. However, the aspects about grief, loss, moving on, second chances, etc., are done well (check TW at the end). At the same time, the writing is not so heavy that it feels overwhelming again and again but does enough to make you feel something.
To summarize, Falling for Provence is a steady-paced and touching story about loss, hope, and finding love (and inspiration) in a beautiful location.
Thank you, Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
I was transported to Vence, to France, to finding family in this beautifully romantic story of healing. It was like finding a cottage of love. Five stars.
I do love a romance. This was a delightful read. Especially with the background located in Provence. Stunning. I can’t wait to go back there. And yes, I must learn French. I never dreamt I’d be a kind of Mills and Boon reader, like my mother was 😂😂😂
Van Uitgeverij BoldwoodBooks kreeg ik de kans om deze nieuwe roman van Alison Roberts te lezen en te recenseren. Dank je wel. Het boek heeft een sfeervolle, romantische en rustgevende en stralende cover, waarvan ik hoop dat dat gevoel ook terugkomt in het verhaal. Het is het eerste boek van Alison Roberts dat ik ga lezen.
Ellie en haar zus erven een oud huis in Provence. Hierin ziet Ellie een kans om wat afstand te nemen van haar verdriet. Wanneer ze aankomt bij het vervallen 'La Maisonnette', vraagt ze zich af of ze een fout heeft gemaakt. Niet veel later ontmoet ze buurman Julien en zijn schattige zoontje. Sinds een hele lange tijd voelt ze weer vlinders in haar buik en krijgt ze de afleiding die ze zocht. Ze redt een zwerfhond en besluit een tijdje te blijven om het huis op te knappen. Kan ze buurman Julien op afstand houden? Beide zijn vastbesloten hun hart te beschermen, maar wat liefde en een affaire kan toch geen kwaad? De charme van de Franse streek heeft haar betoverd. Zal het Ellie nog lukken om afscheid te nemen van deze plek?
Wat een fijne, sfeervolle en mooie roman, die je echt even weg laat dromen en mee neemt naar de Provence. Alison Roberts weet deze plek op hele levendige en sfeervolle wijze te beschrijven, waarmee ze het een betoverende en mooie plek weet te maken, waarin dit mooie verhaal zich afspeelt.
We lezen het verhaal van Ellie, die na een traumatische gebeurtenis zichzelf is verloren. Ondanks dat lange tijd onduidelijk is, welk trauma zich in haar leven heeft voorgedaan, weet Alison Roberts wel haar gevoelens en emoties op sterke wijze te beschrijven. Hierdoor is het een realistisch en mooi uitgewerkt personage, dat gedurende het verhaal meer diepgang krijgt. Hetzelfde geldt voor buurman Julien, die ook een bijzonder en heftig rugzakje meedraagt en waarbij de twee personages uiteindelijk troost en steun bij elkaar vinden.
Ondanks dat het verhaal een beetje op rare wijze startte, had het verhaal me al snel te pakken. Alison Roberts weet de omgeving en het vervallen zo te beschrijven dat je er een levendig beeld van krijgt. Juist door de soms kleine details, zoals de manier waarop de kunst of de bloemen worden beschreven, krijgt het verhaal echt sfeer en gevoel. Doordat de personages goed zijn uitgewerkt, leef je echt met hen mee. Het verhaal kent heftige en aangrijpende thema's met verdriet en rouw, maar ook steun, troost en het maken van een nieuwe start en het vinden van liefde.
De geur van lavendel is een mooie, betoverende en sfeervolle roman. Alison Roberts heeft een levendige en fijne schrijfstijl en weet sommige dingen met detail te beschrijven, waardoor het verhaal sfeer en gevoel oproept. In het verhaal waan je je in de Provence en beleef je een intens, mooi en hartverwarmend verhaal over rouw, troost, het maken van een nieuwe start en liefde. Erg mooi.
Alison Roberts’ book offers an enjoyable and heartwarming escape, with characters that feel both realistic and relatable. The story begins with the three Gilchrist sisters, Laura, Fiona, and Ellie, who inherit an old stone house in Provence after the death of their estranged uncle. The plot follows Ellie and Laura as they travel to Provence to inspect the house, which, though beautiful, has been neglected for many years.
Laura, the practical estate agent, immediately sees the potential in the property and decides to invest in renovations, hoping to sell it at a good price. Ellie, still grieving the loss of her baby boy, agrees to stay behind and oversee the work. For Ellie, the house in Provence offers more than just a project—it becomes a refuge, a place to heal and possibly rediscover herself.
The setting of Provence is beautifully woven into the narrative, and the author’s descriptive writing makes the reader feel as though they are walking through the French countryside, with the sun on their face and the scent of lavender in the air. As Ellie slowly picks up the French language and builds a sense of belonging, her healing journey becomes all the more palpable.
One of the highlights of the story is Ellie’s growing connection with her neighbour, Julien, and his son, Theo. Julien, a kind and caring doctor, is still dealing with his own grief after the betrayal and sudden loss of Theo’s mother. His relationship with his son is portrayed with warmth and tenderness, creating heartwarming moments throughout the story. Julien is a genuinely likeable character, and his chemistry with Ellie adds a sweet layer of romance that feels organic and well-paced. Their encounters, including an impromptu trip to the vet after Ellie’s accident with a stray dog, feel natural and unforced.
While the book has many charming elements, it does start slowly. The initial chapters take time to introduce the characters and plot, and the pacing may feel sluggish for some readers. However, once the story finds its rhythm, it becomes much more engaging, with unexpected twists that tug at the heartstrings. There are moments that evoke real emotion, from grief to joy, and the slower pace allows for reflection on the characters' deeper emotional journeys. Adding to the cozy feel of the book are the animals that become part of Ellie’s life in Provence: the stray dog she temporarily adopts and names Pascal, the donkeys Coquelicot and Marguerite, and her trusty red bicycle—elements that enhance the small-town charm of the story. These details, alongside Roberts' ability to handle delicate themes like loss and recovery with sensitivity, give the novel a dreamy yet grounded atmosphere.
In summary, this novel is perfect for readers who enjoy small-town, single-dad romances with themes of personal healing. While the story takes time to build momentum, it rewards patient readers with heartfelt moments and charming characters. The cozy French setting, combined with the slow-blooming romance between Ellie and Julien, makes this a delightful read for fans of contemporary romance. A solid four-star read for anyone looking for a gentle, uplifting escape into the French countryside.
Dreamy, cosy and heartwarming, Falling for Provence by Alison Roberts tells a story about a woman who goes to France to fix up a house she inherited and meets her new neighbour and his son.
Summary: Eleanor "Ellie" Gilchrist comes to Provence to fix up an old stone house "La Maisonette" that she inherited from an uncle she never knew she had. There, she meets her new neighbour, Julien Rousseau, and his son Theo. The two are hesitant about acting on their feelings for each other as they spend time together.
Tropes/Genres: • small town • neighbours • single father • contemporary romance • set in Provence, France
Review: This book is so nice! The characters are so lovely and realistic. It's so nice to see how they grow throughout the story and learn to love bravely again. The writing feels so gentle and dreamy, creating such a nice cosy vibe while touching on delicate topics and balancing them with a dash of humour.
Ellie is such a sweet character. I just wanted to best for her, honestly. She has been through a lot. It was cute to see her pick up French and start to feel a sense of belonging in France the more time she spent there. I love the way she couldn't help but care for Julien's son, Theo. She's such a compassionate person that one can't help but love her.
Julien is such a nice guy and an amazing dad. He will do anything to protect Theo. Their father-son bond is so heartwarming to see. His backstory is honestly so sad, but it made him who he is today. He's a doctor, and he doesn't hesitate to help anyone in need.
I just think that Ellie and Julian are good for each other, and they have a cosy chemistry. The other characters in this book, such as Ellie's sisters, are also likeable. Here's a special shoutout to Coquelicot and Marguerite, her donkeys! I also absolutely love Pascal, the stray dog that the two of them saved.
Overall, this is such a nice and cosy book for romance readers. I definitely recommend it to those who want to read a small-town single-dad romance set in France! The characters are so lovely, and the story is so heartwarming. This is certainly worth a read.
Booklovers, get ready to armchair travel to Provence. Alison Roberts' romantic escape read provides romance, stunning scenery and a town filled with charismatic characters that you'll want to learn French to converse with them.
Laura and Ellie Gilchrist inherit a house in Provence and upon first sight, Ellie felt a stirring that she locked away after her baby's death. The floral elements of the house filled with hope that bloomed throughout her stay. As Ellie made the house hospitable, she attracted her neighbor Julian's attention. Both fighting demons from their pasts, they were afraid of being hurt,
As Julian's son, Theo worms his way into her heart and a loveable rescue dog perked up Ellie's passion for life, she begins to feel that Provence is her home. While there for a short stint, the changes she's making in the home, mirror her own growth. Will she be able to leave at the end of her summer adventure or has Provence's scenic setting stirred thoughts of staying? .
Thank you to #NetGalley and the publisher for the early addition of #FallingforProvence in exchange for an honest review. Stories come into your life for a reason and this one afforded armchair traveling while job searching. My last international trip included the French countryside so this was a welcomed return. Readers will fall in love with Ellie's story and embrace her adventurous spirit.
Alison Roberts’ novel follows the story of three sisters—Laura, Fiona, and Ellie—who inherit an old stone house in Provence after the passing of their estranged uncle. Laura, the practical estate agent, wants to renovate the house for resale, while Ellie, still grieving the loss of her baby, stays behind to oversee the work. For Ellie, the house becomes a place of healing and rediscovery.
Set in the beautiful French countryside, Ellie forms a connection with her neighbor, Julien, a kind doctor, and his son, Theo. Both are dealing with their own loss, and the slow-burn romance between Ellie and Julien brings warmth and hope to the story. Their relationship grows naturally as Ellie immerses herself in her new life in Provence, picking up the language and finding a sense of belonging.
The novel is filled with charming elements, including Ellie’s stray dog, Pascal, and the cozy small-town atmosphere. While the story starts off slowly, it eventually delivers heartfelt moments and explores themes of grief, recovery, and new beginnings.
In essence, this novel offers a gentle, uplifting romance set against a beautiful French backdrop, perfect for readers who enjoy stories of personal healing and slow-blooming love.
Thank you to the publisher, Rachel's Random Resources, NetGalley, and the author for providing me with an ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
In this fun modern romance novel, readers join Ellie Gilchrist after a series of tragedies have shaken her world. Having recently inherited La Maisonette in Provence with her sisters, she goes to France to restore the house, but it seems like it might be more work than she had planned. With a guarded neighbor Julien, his young son, and several rescued animals now a part of her life, Ellie’s life has changed for the better, and her new relationships are just what she needs even if it has a time limit. The fantastic characters and beautiful setting against the semi-tragic backdrop of Ellie and Julien’s backstories are a fantastic juxtaposition. The characterization is incredibly strong, and the emotional tone of the novel is really powerful. Ellie’s backstory, while tragic, is handled tastefully and adds to the general stakes of the novel. Her growing relationship with Julien and his son is realistic and particularly charming to watch as the novel progresses, and Ellie’s self-growth is also rewarding to watch progress. The characters are the star of this novel, and Roberts’ skill with character development and setting really shine in her latest book, a fantastic, heartwarming, and emotional modern romance novel set in beautiful France.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
Det er skønt, når en roman kan transportere en til fremmede lande. I dette tilfælde til Frankrig. Jeg fik helt lyst til, at tage på opdagelse og finde de skønne små landsbyer, hvor markedspladsen fylder en med dufte og lyde. Mennesker der snakker og griner, hverdagsting og skønne små fortovscafér. Alt sammen i en pærevælling. Nå ja - og så er der lavendelmarkerne og citrontræerne. Jo - det ville jeg gerne opleve.
Romanen Falling for Provence, er en roman om sorgbearbejdning og at komme videre i livet. Ellie har mistet sit barn ved vuggedød, og hendes liv er gået i stå. Hun kan ikke komme fri af sorgen og visheden om, at det er hendes skyld at babyen døde. Da hun arver et hus i Provence sammen med sine to søstre, er planen at sælge huset hurtigst muligt. Men da Ellie ser huset, beslutter hun sig for at bo i det henover sommeren. Og det viser sig at være en god beslutning. Huset og omgivelserne giver fred og ro og tiden til at bearbejde sorgen. Og så møder hun naboen!
Javist, der er naturligvis en omgang kærlighed med i billedet. Vi er jo i Frankrig!
Det er en fin roman, som har meget beskrivende billeder af landet. Samtidig sidder jeg tilbage, med en følelse af, at jeg har læst tilsvarende bøger før. Så altså ikke en roman der har opfundet den dybe tallerken. Men læseværdig er den.
Ellie Gilchrist and her two sisters, inherited a stone house in Provence, from an uncle they never met. She went to Provence to see the house with her sister, and it needed a lot of work. She decides to stay there and fixing it up to sell it, she thought staying there, she could leave her grief at home. It didn't work out that way She met the neighbor, Julien, and his son Theo. The first meeting didn't go well. Julian was also grieving. When her sister was going back home, she decided to buy Ellie a red bike so she would have a way of getting around. When she rode it into town, a stray dog, ran right in front of her. The dog was injured, and she had a scrape on her elbow. Julian came, because he is a doctor, and took her and the dog to the vets. She decides to keep the dog temporarily. Her plans are to fix up the house, and bring it back to life. As she brings the house back to life, will she discover, that she might be coming back to life too? Alison Roberts writes with such description, that whether it is the house, feelings, animals, the countryside, she makes me feel like I am right there, with her, and can see it all. I received an ARC from Boldwood Books through NetGalley.
Ellie Gilchrist inherits an old house in Provence from an uncle she didn't know she had, providing a much-needed escape from her grief. While renovating the house, she finds herself drawn to her neighbor Julien and his son, sparking feelings she thought were lost. Despite her intentions to leave after the summer, the charm of Provence and her growing connection with Julien make it difficult for her to walk away. This book could have easily been a DNF (Did Not Finish) if I had not stuck it out past the first seven chapters. Many of the sentences were too long and unwieldy, making it difficult to read and providing a very slow introduction to the plot and characters. Some of the descriptions were antiquated, such as using "a flying trip" instead of something like "a flight," making it difficult at first to determine the time setting of the book. However, as I kept reading and started understanding the characters and setting, there were moments that made me tear up and an unexpected plot twist that left me slightly shocked and worried. This is more of a slow read—pick it up when you want, read a little, and then put it down—but eventually, there are moments that spark an "I can't put this down" feeling.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing this book for review.
Who loves Provence more, me or Alison Roberts? I'm a sucker for all things France but Provence holds a special place in my heart. Even so, I thought this would be a cute, easy read but not something I'd be really drawn to. It was and easy read, but also much more.
I found myself drawn in to the old cottage, adorable dog, retro bicycle, sweetest little boy, and of course Ellie and Julien's story. I was surprised at how attached I got to the two main characters, and how engaged I was in the book. Ellie was much more developed and had more depth than I anticipated. I cared about her, felt pain with her, and smiled at her joy.
I haven't read from this author before. Her writing was lovely and transported me to one of my favorite places in the world. Truly, it was almost as thought I could smell the lavender and taste the pizza through the digital book! I wanted more of the town, wanted to get to know the townspeople more.
A couple storylines were unfinished and seemed unnecessary. BUT I realize this is the first in a series so I'm wondering if the subsequent books address those issues. I'll definitely be on the lookout for more by Alison Roberts!
TY Boldwood Books for the free digital ARC. Easily four-stars and has me dreaming of Provence!
Es un libro sobre la sanción y las segundas oportunidades.
La protagonista, Ellie perdió a su bebé, un día se fue a dormir y al levantarse, Jack, ya no respiraba. Durante 6 meses ha estado deprimida, su familia está muy preocupada y cuando les heredan una casa en Francia la mandan junto a su hermana para que se despeje un poco y al final decide quedarse hasta que vendan la casa. En ese tiempo conoce a su vecino Julien y a su hijo Theo, la pobre se pone nerviosa cuando conoce a Theo porque le recuerda a su hijo, pero por ciertas circunstancias se vuelven cercanos y poco a poco abrirá su corazón.
Julien es doctor ama a su hijo y es viudo. Su esposa lo iba a abandonar, pero mientras escapaba con su amante murió en un accidente. Ahora el no quiere saber nada del amor y quiere enfocarse en su hijo, pero la vida le tiene otros planes.
Ambos tiene povs, sin embargo, la historia se centra en Ellie por lo que ella tiene más povs.
Tristemente no tiene epílogo, espero que lo agreguen en la edición final.🤞
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
What a captivating, sweet read with all the magic ingredients, new beginnings, moving on and finding the meaning of life again and living it to the fullest. This is the story of Ellie one of three sisters who inherited a house in the South East of France. Going there she is fully set on getting the house in order so that they will be able to sell it. Ellie takes on the project and it is going to be a lot more than she expected. This story unravels beautifully and Ellie discovers the neighbors, the surroundings of Provence. It's as if you can feel that Provence is outside your door. Feeling the sun, the lemons, olive trees as well as the atmosphere of how life in that region is. As a reader of this book, and having lived there a couple of decades I can perfectly relate to the magic described in this book. Ellie meets her neighbor Julien, from there on a lot happens, new places discovered with a daily life to be lived even if it at times could seem rather difficult. A nice story that was impossible to put down, with a feel good feeling along the way! I truly enjoyed this read and discovering this new to me author. Thank you Charlotte N
Falling For Provence takes the reader on an emotional and escapist journey to Provence, where Ellie begins to heal after a tragic loss by enjoying life's simple pleasures. Ellie and her siblings have inherited a rundown house from an uncle they didn't know existed, a relative of their estranged father. Ellie has suffered an unimaginable loss, and something in the Provence draws her to stay there and spruce up the house for sale. Not looking for companionship, she still finds it in Julien and embarks on a romantic adventure she never expected or knew she needed. I like the lyrical descriptions seen from Ellie's artistic viewpoint. I like Ellie and Julien. They are lovely characters who have suffered in ways that make commitment difficult. The story balances dark and light, humour and drama and romance. There is also a mystery that remains unsolved. It is an evocative and uplifting escapist story.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
This is the enchanting & captivating story of Ellie and her trip to Provence, where her unknown Uncle had lived. Ellie and her two sisters, Laura and Fiona, inherit La Maisonette on his death. Ellie decides to spend her summer renovating the property. There is much to do; and as she lovingly restores the house back to life, she rediscovers herself. She adopts a little dog, who helps her feel again. She’d known such terrible loss, and she finds someone who can identify with her. Her neighbour & his son Theo turn her life around. This is a wonderfully touching story. There’s beautiful descriptions throughout of La Maisonette, the villages, mountains and countryside. Thoroughly enjoyable. Highly recommend. One of the best Romance novels I’ve read. I received an Advanced Reader Copy from NetGallery & Boldwood. I am writing a voluntary honest review
I'm reviewing this via NetGalley as part of a tour with Rachel's Random Resources.
I escaped to Provence with this delightful little read. I felt the atmosphere of Provence, as the author brought it to life, describing sights, scents and tastes. I felt a connection with the protagonist, Ellie, and it seemed that she wanted to escape something too. Julien was a sexy character, and I was keen to know more about him. By the time I reached the end, I wondered if I had in fact fallen for Provence myself.
This was a feel-good romantic read, and I found it light enough to read in one sitting. It's the ideal type of book to escape with on a dull and dreary day.
Thank you to NetGalley, Rachel's Random Resources, Boldwood Books, and to the author, for the opportunity to read and review this.
When Ellie Gilchrist inherits a house in Provence, she decides to take a chance and visit, only to find that ‘La Masionette’ is run down and overgrown with lavender and ivy. When she meets her guarded neighbour Julien and his adorable son Theo, she begins to get excited that this break away could be what she needs. The more time she spends with Julien, the more she realises that it will be difficulty to leave when the summer comes to an end. One aspect that I loved about this book is seeing how Ellie’s relationship develops between Julien, as well as how she is with Theo. The small French town feel is wonderfully explored, with the author painting a vivid image of the countryside. This book has all the elements of a sweet contemporary romance. This book I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
An Uncle they never knew Leaves three sisters a surprise inheritance too. A journey from Scotland 🏴 to France 🇫🇷 What will they find when they go take a chance?
Ellie Gilchrist decides she’ll stay To get the house cleaning underway. Maybe the place will re inspire her art And help to heal her broken heart.
Two donkeys, a rescue an uncomfortable greeting What happens when they continue to keep meeting? Both are endeavouring to protect their own heart But will that bring them together or tear them apart?
A summer bringing new opportunities and chances Along with the possibility, maybe, of romances. A chance to heal and make a fresh start With new people and France playing a part!
For my copy of this book I say thank you As I share with you this, my honest review.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publishing house and the author for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of this book in return for a review based upon my honest opinion.
Ellie and her siblings inherit an old house in Provence from a family member they never knew existed. Ellie's lif has had a hug upheavel and a change of location and pace might help to set her back to right; so she decides to stay and get the property ready for sale. Ellie starts to fall in love with the house and the area, and before she knows it she finds herself drawn to the neighbour, Julien. Ellie tells herself not to get involved with Julien as she will not be there long, but the heart wants what the heart wants.
This was a lovely escape to Provence,the scenery was vivid and the characters were wonderfully written. I will definitely read more books by this author, I look forward to the next one.
The story follows three sisters selling a house in Provence they have inherited. Ellie is grieving the loss of her baby and it is agreed that she will stay and get the house ready for sale. She meets her neighbour Julien and his small son under trying circumstances but there is a definite attraction. Both think it might be a short term romance. I loved the descriptions of the house, countryside food and villages. I felt as if I was there. Also I liked the red 2cv Margot it sounded glorious. The book seemed a bit slow at the beginning but I was glad that I persevered. Special mention for the small white dog Pascal and the donkeys Marguerite and Coquelicot. I really enjoyed the book. Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley.
This beautiful and poignant story will have you reading into the early hours, needing to know the conclusion. Ellie and her sisters find they have inherited a small house in Provence, France, from an uncle they knew nothing about, Ellie and her older sister travel to look at the house, and decide that she can stay behind to help renovate, and get the house ready to sell. She meets her new neighbour Julien, and his son Theo in an emotionally charged moment. This starts a labour of love on the house and slowly but surely a healing process for Ellie but also Julien, and his son Theo. Many thanks to Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read this arc copy via Netgalley. My opinion is my own. #Netgalley, #TheBoldBookClub, #AlisonRobertsWriter.
Falling for Provence beautifully transports readers to the South of France, where Ellie Gilchrist, grappling with deep personal loss, inherits a rundown house. The vivid descriptions of Provence create a strong sense of place, making Ellie’s journey of healing and the restoration of the house deeply moving.
While the romance between Ellie and her neighbour Julien is predictable, it’s heartwarming and authentic. The story really drew me in, making it a wonderfully engaging, quick read - perfect for the summer! Overall a memorable story about healing, love, loss, and new beginnings. Perfect for anyone looking for a heartfelt escape.
Thanks to NetGalley for an advanced copy for review.
Falling for Provence by Alison Roberts, this was a new author for me and I really enjoyed this book. When three sisters inherit and old home in France, Ellie and Laura go to view the home and decide how to best sell the home. Ellie has been in a depression after losing her son, and not in a very good mind frame. Having said that she fell in love with the house, and decided to stay an do most of the renovations to make it worth selling. Little by little Ellie comes more and more out of the shell and opens up to the world around her. I would definitely recommend this book to others.
I received and ARC from NetGalley and the publisher Boldwood Books, and I am leaving my review voluntarily.
Along with her sisters Ellie has inherited a house in Provence. Fixing up the old house is just the escape Ellie needs for a while to help with her grief. What Ellie gets is certainly more than she ever expected. The characters are so lovely and relatable and I was wishing for only good things for the sweet Ellie and Julien who have amazing chemistry. Watching Ellie learn to speak a little French was so much fun and I enjoyed joining in on the fun. The vivid setting of France was beautiful and I love that you can take your dog just about everywhere with you in France. I'm sure Pascal liked being able to be with Ellie his saviour. A heartwarming escapism romance with cute animals!
I picked up this book and began to read it and it was not long before I felt like I was in the South of France. Ellie goes to France to fix up a home she inherited along with two of her sisters. She goes to check out what must be done so they can sell it. She has been through a lot, and this is what she needs to help her with all she has had happen to her. The journey she has taken on is one that is exactly what she needs. The author has written a heartwarming, touching, emotional book that will stick with me for a long time after reading it. I received an ARC of Falling for Provence from NetGalley, Alison Roberts and Boldwood. I am writing a voluntary honest review.
Falling for Provence by Alison Roberts is the first book in a new series called A year in France and this book was set in Provence in France and was a beautifully heartwarming book, with wonderful characters especially as Alison is a new author to me and I am so glad I had a chance to read it. I loved this book from the very first few pages and loved the cover - very eye catching!
WoW this book is so good........and if you have a dream to move to France Go for it....I did and love it here.
I highly recommend this book.........Just beautiful.
Big thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood books for my ARC.
- Inheritance - Starting over - Beautiful location - Slow burn - Single father
What a lovely and charming story! This book showcases family and starting over.
Three sisters have inherited their uncle's house in Provence. Two of them go to visit the estate and this is the book for one of them.
Ellie is dealing with a terrible loss and is hoping a change in scenery will help her heal. The author describes the countryside in such vivid details that I felt I was walking in fields of lavender.
Ellie befriends her new neighbor Julien, who is a single father. Theirs is an easy relationship, and very gradually turns into something very sweeet.