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Cocktails at Le Carmen
When job cuts at Chloe Saddler’s London communications firm result in an unexpected transfer to Paris, she finds herself leaving behind her friends, family, and boyfriend Scott to start a new life in the City of Light. Getting to grips with La Vie Parisienne and keeping a long-distance relationship afloat is not made any easier by the culture shock. Committing the odd French faux pas and inadvertently indulging in a few too many flirtations with her very sexy (and very taken) boss, Jean-Luc, is just the start of it. Factor in her bridezilla of a sister’s wedding (the hottest event of the year in the Saddler family’s social calendar), an unexpected session of hot, naked yoga, a slightly psychotic stalker, and one incredible kiss at an infamous Montmartre nightspot, and Chloe can say au revoir to her old, safe London life and bonjour to the romance, splendour, and glamour of Paris.
A delightful debut that harks back to the early days of Chick Lit when heroines were flawed, funny, and forever battling for love and happiness. With quirky characters and classic comedic charm, Cocktails at Le Carmen is pure fun from page one.
A delightful debut that harks back to the early days of Chick Lit when heroines were flawed, funny, and forever battling for love and happiness. With quirky characters and classic comedic charm, Cocktails at Le Carmen is pure fun from page one.
346 pages, Paperback
First published June 19, 2015
9 people are currently reading
532 people want to read
About the author
Isabelle Andover
4 books8 followersOriginally from England, Isabelle Andover moved to France after graduating from Durham University with a degree in Modern Languages. She lives in Paris with her tabby cat Oscar, who occasionally blogs about apartment-style living in the City of Light, and who also inspired a prize-winning short story when he was a kitten.
Following several years as a media analyst, Isabelle now works at a Paris-based media company specialized in the international beauty market. In addition to fully embracing the culture of her adopted country by way of consuming plenty of French wine and cheese, Isabelle can also be found indulging in the typically British pursuits of shopping at Marks and Spencer on the Champs Elysées and drinking copious cups of Earl Grey.
Following several years as a media analyst, Isabelle now works at a Paris-based media company specialized in the international beauty market. In addition to fully embracing the culture of her adopted country by way of consuming plenty of French wine and cheese, Isabelle can also be found indulging in the typically British pursuits of shopping at Marks and Spencer on the Champs Elysées and drinking copious cups of Earl Grey.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
June 17, 2015
Cocktails at Le Carmen is pure fun!
26 year old Chloe Saddler receives a great job offer in Paris. She moves from London, leaving behind her friends, her bridezilla sister, and her douchey boyfriend, Scott. After experiencing some initial hurdles, she slowly adapts to life in Paris and falls for her dreamy boss, Jean-Luc. In true chick-lit fashion, Chloe finds herself fumbling through some embarrassing (and hilarious) situations as she adapts to her new life.
This book is an enjoyable read. I was completely engrossed from page one. I love how Andover pays homage to other chick-lit authors. If you are looking for a fun summer read, I would highly recommend Cocktails at Le Carmen.
Thank you to Netgalley and Simon & Fig for the opportunity to read this book.
26 year old Chloe Saddler receives a great job offer in Paris. She moves from London, leaving behind her friends, her bridezilla sister, and her douchey boyfriend, Scott. After experiencing some initial hurdles, she slowly adapts to life in Paris and falls for her dreamy boss, Jean-Luc. In true chick-lit fashion, Chloe finds herself fumbling through some embarrassing (and hilarious) situations as she adapts to her new life.
This book is an enjoyable read. I was completely engrossed from page one. I love how Andover pays homage to other chick-lit authors. If you are looking for a fun summer read, I would highly recommend Cocktails at Le Carmen.
Thank you to Netgalley and Simon & Fig for the opportunity to read this book.
September 6, 2021
Chick lit whimsy!
I had a smile on my face all the way through this book.
Chloe Saddler finds herself transferred to Paris (pinch me now!) It does mean leaving the live-in boyfriend Scott but Paris is only a couple of hours away. Nothing simpler!
(Grinding of teeth about said boyfriend p..leaz! That does rhyme with sleaze doesn't it?)
We sashay through Paris with Chloe as she hunts for a flat, makes friends and ventures into an oh so different culture. Her forays into the nightclub scene are memorable along with the cocktails and subsequent hangovers including the random memories of what might have happened. And then there's her hunk of a boss Jean-Luc boss, whom every one swoons over, including Chloe and me!
As a would be affeciando of vintage designer clothes, I do appreciate Chloe's reference to articles of clothing she either finds in out of the way stores or has on loan from girlfriends. The mention of various designer shoes is an added bonus that had me drooling.
Chloe's also in the midst of her highly strung sister Celine's (referred to as the Bridezilla) wedding. Everything must be perfect! I, like Chloe, want to run every time there's an emergency looming or an impassioned phone call.
A cheeky reference to Colin Firth and Hugh Grant remind us of the company this quirky addition to the Chick lit genre keeps. Whimsical and funny.
A NetGalley ARC
I had a smile on my face all the way through this book.
Chloe Saddler finds herself transferred to Paris (pinch me now!) It does mean leaving the live-in boyfriend Scott but Paris is only a couple of hours away. Nothing simpler!
(Grinding of teeth about said boyfriend p..leaz! That does rhyme with sleaze doesn't it?)
We sashay through Paris with Chloe as she hunts for a flat, makes friends and ventures into an oh so different culture. Her forays into the nightclub scene are memorable along with the cocktails and subsequent hangovers including the random memories of what might have happened. And then there's her hunk of a boss Jean-Luc boss, whom every one swoons over, including Chloe and me!
As a would be affeciando of vintage designer clothes, I do appreciate Chloe's reference to articles of clothing she either finds in out of the way stores or has on loan from girlfriends. The mention of various designer shoes is an added bonus that had me drooling.
Chloe's also in the midst of her highly strung sister Celine's (referred to as the Bridezilla) wedding. Everything must be perfect! I, like Chloe, want to run every time there's an emergency looming or an impassioned phone call.
A cheeky reference to Colin Firth and Hugh Grant remind us of the company this quirky addition to the Chick lit genre keeps. Whimsical and funny.
A NetGalley ARC
August 13, 2015
Actual rating: 3.5/5
Very good chick-lit!
I really enjoyed reading Cocktails at Le Carmen - in fact, I finished it in half the time I should've, considering I was - and still am - in the middle of finals week. It's light, funny, cute and easy to read, which was exactly what I needed. It's very similar to the Shopaholic series, obviously since it's about a woman who loves fashion and her dating experiences, but I also thought that the kind if characters and the plot were similar, too. I think it might be a bit of a negative point, because I didn't feel like I was reading a truly original work. However, it's not overly similar, so I was very well able to read without thinking of the similarities.
I liked the diversity in characters that this story has. We get to know Chloe's London friends, Paris friends, parents, sister, boyfriend, coworkers, etc. I feel like this adds a more realistic touch to the story, because a love story isn't usually just about two characters, it's about everyone around them, too. Also, it was clear to me that Chloe cared a lot about them, which made her a lovable character. I had a bit of an issue with some of the characters because I felt like I couldn't understand them well, since one minute I could think they would do something, yet they would do the opposite. It added to the surprise, but it bugged me a lot, because I saw them as unreliable.
I really enjoyed the plot, as well as the settings, because I thought it was interesting and realistic. Instead of living a glamorous life in Paris, Chloe experiments a lot of problems, just as anyone working in another country would. I liked the language contrasts, especially since I speak French myself, and I thought that the explorations that Chloe has in Paris were a great addition to the story, although they were a bit cliché. If you love books set in a foreign country, this is the one for you, because you'll get a lot of French and British culture while reading.
I wasn't exactly pleased with the ending, because I thought it ended quite abruptly and was a bit too "happily ever after". If only it had had more depth, I think it would've been great, but once more, I felt as if the author had only wanted to finally finish writing the novel. I think endings are very important to stories, which is why they should never be rushed.
Overall, I really liked this novel. As I mentionned it earlier, there are some things that I disliked about it, but my reading experience was a very nice one and I think that as far as chick-lot books go, this is a great one. I recommend it!
(Thank you NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
(You can find this review on my review blog: http://lauromantique.blogspot.ca/2015... )
Very good chick-lit!
I really enjoyed reading Cocktails at Le Carmen - in fact, I finished it in half the time I should've, considering I was - and still am - in the middle of finals week. It's light, funny, cute and easy to read, which was exactly what I needed. It's very similar to the Shopaholic series, obviously since it's about a woman who loves fashion and her dating experiences, but I also thought that the kind if characters and the plot were similar, too. I think it might be a bit of a negative point, because I didn't feel like I was reading a truly original work. However, it's not overly similar, so I was very well able to read without thinking of the similarities.
I liked the diversity in characters that this story has. We get to know Chloe's London friends, Paris friends, parents, sister, boyfriend, coworkers, etc. I feel like this adds a more realistic touch to the story, because a love story isn't usually just about two characters, it's about everyone around them, too. Also, it was clear to me that Chloe cared a lot about them, which made her a lovable character. I had a bit of an issue with some of the characters because I felt like I couldn't understand them well, since one minute I could think they would do something, yet they would do the opposite. It added to the surprise, but it bugged me a lot, because I saw them as unreliable.
I really enjoyed the plot, as well as the settings, because I thought it was interesting and realistic. Instead of living a glamorous life in Paris, Chloe experiments a lot of problems, just as anyone working in another country would. I liked the language contrasts, especially since I speak French myself, and I thought that the explorations that Chloe has in Paris were a great addition to the story, although they were a bit cliché. If you love books set in a foreign country, this is the one for you, because you'll get a lot of French and British culture while reading.
I wasn't exactly pleased with the ending, because I thought it ended quite abruptly and was a bit too "happily ever after". If only it had had more depth, I think it would've been great, but once more, I felt as if the author had only wanted to finally finish writing the novel. I think endings are very important to stories, which is why they should never be rushed.
Overall, I really liked this novel. As I mentionned it earlier, there are some things that I disliked about it, but my reading experience was a very nice one and I think that as far as chick-lot books go, this is a great one. I recommend it!
(Thank you NetGalley for providing me with a digital copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.)
(You can find this review on my review blog: http://lauromantique.blogspot.ca/2015... )
December 24, 2015
This is just PERFECT chicklit! Everything we ask when we read checklist is in this book! I absolutely loved the story! I hope Isabelle Andover will write many many more books like this one!!!
June 19, 2015
I enjoyed this book. It was certainly interesting all the triangles going around. And the SIMS card was undoubtedly the best idea I've heard in a long time. While I certainly could have done without Bridezilla, I suppose she did offer some humor to the book and actually came around as almost human there in the end.
I thought this book fun, entertaining and humorous. And, just the name Jean Luc makes me tingly after reading this. I definitely recommend this as a fun, sex is implied, but you don't have to read about it, enjoyable little story. I loved the koi pond ending most definitely.
Thanks Simon and Fig and Net Galley for providing me with this free e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
I thought this book fun, entertaining and humorous. And, just the name Jean Luc makes me tingly after reading this. I definitely recommend this as a fun, sex is implied, but you don't have to read about it, enjoyable little story. I loved the koi pond ending most definitely.
Thanks Simon and Fig and Net Galley for providing me with this free e-galley in exchange for an honest review.
September 23, 2015
It seems like Chloe Saddler had it all – a job, a boyfriend, a set of friends and a boyfriend, till she didn’t have them any longer. Amidst mass job cuts, when Chloe gets sent off to Paris on a transfer, she supposed that she should be grateful that she had a job after all and Paris wasn’t bad either. But moving away from everything that was familiar to her, to a new city and a new life isn’t easy. But a long distance relationship to keep up, the new culture to settle into, an upcoming wedding and a hell-hot new boss maybe just a tad bit too much for her to handle…
So the pros of this book first. I loved the varied and vibrant characters in this book. There are quite a few and each has their distinct voice in the book. Chloe herself was generally loveable until she had moments of such naiveté, that it turned me off at times. But the fact that she could elicit such varied reactions from me made me fall for her anyway. The plot is a light breezy one which will not make you think much and you’d probably know how it would end soon after starting with it. It has enough drama and comical moments to make you smile through the book. There is an ample dose of romance added to the mix. I liked the settings and the way the cultures have been portrayed. There was a contrast in the cultures and being a third party, I quite enjoyed reading about both and seeing the contrast in them. Though I have to say that I have not experienced either French or British culture myself and cannot tell you how authentic they are – they did feel very real to me.
The cons of the book are very few. There were some very clichéd moments that I did not like as much. Top on the list is the name Jean-Luc! I honestly have lost count of the number of times that name has popped up in fictional world (books, movies & tv put together) to portray a French man. You can count this as a personal quirk of mine, but don’t French people have any other names for men? Then there’s the fact that despite the romance being the frontline in the story, I really did not see the chemistry. Sure, there were moments but the ‘x’ factor was missing with both Scott and Jean-Luc.
Overall, this makes for an ideal beach read that helps you relax and take things slowly.
So the pros of this book first. I loved the varied and vibrant characters in this book. There are quite a few and each has their distinct voice in the book. Chloe herself was generally loveable until she had moments of such naiveté, that it turned me off at times. But the fact that she could elicit such varied reactions from me made me fall for her anyway. The plot is a light breezy one which will not make you think much and you’d probably know how it would end soon after starting with it. It has enough drama and comical moments to make you smile through the book. There is an ample dose of romance added to the mix. I liked the settings and the way the cultures have been portrayed. There was a contrast in the cultures and being a third party, I quite enjoyed reading about both and seeing the contrast in them. Though I have to say that I have not experienced either French or British culture myself and cannot tell you how authentic they are – they did feel very real to me.
The cons of the book are very few. There were some very clichéd moments that I did not like as much. Top on the list is the name Jean-Luc! I honestly have lost count of the number of times that name has popped up in fictional world (books, movies & tv put together) to portray a French man. You can count this as a personal quirk of mine, but don’t French people have any other names for men? Then there’s the fact that despite the romance being the frontline in the story, I really did not see the chemistry. Sure, there were moments but the ‘x’ factor was missing with both Scott and Jean-Luc.
Overall, this makes for an ideal beach read that helps you relax and take things slowly.
August 10, 2015
What a lovely story set in London and Paris! Two cities that I would love to venture to one day soon. This story cemented those dreams even more into my bucket list with every page turned.
Chloe seemed to have everything she ever wanted - a steady job, a nice flat in London and her boyfriend Scott. Then her life is turned upside down - she is being sent to Paris for her job! At first she is not sure how to take this news - 1st happy thought - At least she still has a job - 2nd happy thought - She enjoyed Paris from her previous stay - 3rd happy thought - She and Scott could move together and continue their relationship.
Her family is happy for her new career opportunity but Scott isn't as excited. He job is here and he doesn't plan to leave, they can handle a long distance relationship (or so he says).
So Chloe heads to Paris - her first mistake - not looking for a proper place to live a lot sooner - I can't believe how crazy the housing scene is in Paris! Talk about stress!
Thank goodness her boss steps in and offers her a temporary place to stay while she continues to look.
And let me tell you - Jean-Luc sounds like an absolute dream! How will she get any work done - let alone stay in the same flat with him and his expecting gf Isabelle.
Thank goodness for all the friend that Chloe has made along the way! They have helped her find a permanent place to lay her head, comfort when she is down, fine nights out drinking, excellent clothing advice (and pieces to borrow) and so much more!
The story has ups and down around every corner - from cheating boyfriends, to new roommates, to new friends, a new boyfriend and crazy family.
How does this girl do it without cracking is beyond me! My head would be spinning!
There are so many scenic examples of Paris - you will want to take a trip there sooner rather than later!
Chloe seemed to have everything she ever wanted - a steady job, a nice flat in London and her boyfriend Scott. Then her life is turned upside down - she is being sent to Paris for her job! At first she is not sure how to take this news - 1st happy thought - At least she still has a job - 2nd happy thought - She enjoyed Paris from her previous stay - 3rd happy thought - She and Scott could move together and continue their relationship.
Her family is happy for her new career opportunity but Scott isn't as excited. He job is here and he doesn't plan to leave, they can handle a long distance relationship (or so he says).
So Chloe heads to Paris - her first mistake - not looking for a proper place to live a lot sooner - I can't believe how crazy the housing scene is in Paris! Talk about stress!
Thank goodness her boss steps in and offers her a temporary place to stay while she continues to look.
And let me tell you - Jean-Luc sounds like an absolute dream! How will she get any work done - let alone stay in the same flat with him and his expecting gf Isabelle.
Thank goodness for all the friend that Chloe has made along the way! They have helped her find a permanent place to lay her head, comfort when she is down, fine nights out drinking, excellent clothing advice (and pieces to borrow) and so much more!
The story has ups and down around every corner - from cheating boyfriends, to new roommates, to new friends, a new boyfriend and crazy family.
How does this girl do it without cracking is beyond me! My head would be spinning!
There are so many scenic examples of Paris - you will want to take a trip there sooner rather than later!
June 19, 2015
Originally posted at The Bookaholic Cat
Chloe Saddler is funny, caring, and although a bit too naïve at times, was an easy to like character. I liked her friends, but didn’t like her bridezilla sister. I don’t think she was mean only because she was getting married, I think it was her personality. I wished Chloe had put her on her place a bit sooner.
It was pretty obvious what kind of boyfriend Scott was, but this was one of those “there is no one more blind than he who will not see” cases in regards to Chloe.
I liked Jean-Luc, but wish I had seen more of him and more of the relationship development with Chloe. I also know that it would have added a lot more pages and maybe make the book a bit too long.
One of the things I liked the most about Cocktails at Le Carmen by Isabelle Andover was the setting. With her words Andover brings to life one of my favorite cities, Paris. Reading her book was almost like being there, walking the streets, riding the metro, eating pains au chocolat, and all around, like visiting the city of light.
When I read chick lit I expect a quirky heroine somewhat innocent, good friends, a sexy hero, a character (or two) I will dislike, funny moments, and all around an easy, fun and quick read. Cocktails at Le Carmen by Isabelle Andover, apart of having all the things I look for in chick lit, also has a beautiful setting, as is Paris. Cocktails at Le Carmen was a win-win read for me.
Cocktails at Le Carmen is the perfect beach read. I recommend it to chick lit fans or to anyone who wants to read an easy, fun and highly entertaining book.
Chloe Saddler is funny, caring, and although a bit too naïve at times, was an easy to like character. I liked her friends, but didn’t like her bridezilla sister. I don’t think she was mean only because she was getting married, I think it was her personality. I wished Chloe had put her on her place a bit sooner.
It was pretty obvious what kind of boyfriend Scott was, but this was one of those “there is no one more blind than he who will not see” cases in regards to Chloe.
I liked Jean-Luc, but wish I had seen more of him and more of the relationship development with Chloe. I also know that it would have added a lot more pages and maybe make the book a bit too long.
One of the things I liked the most about Cocktails at Le Carmen by Isabelle Andover was the setting. With her words Andover brings to life one of my favorite cities, Paris. Reading her book was almost like being there, walking the streets, riding the metro, eating pains au chocolat, and all around, like visiting the city of light.
When I read chick lit I expect a quirky heroine somewhat innocent, good friends, a sexy hero, a character (or two) I will dislike, funny moments, and all around an easy, fun and quick read. Cocktails at Le Carmen by Isabelle Andover, apart of having all the things I look for in chick lit, also has a beautiful setting, as is Paris. Cocktails at Le Carmen was a win-win read for me.
Cocktails at Le Carmen is the perfect beach read. I recommend it to chick lit fans or to anyone who wants to read an easy, fun and highly entertaining book.
June 23, 2015
If you're looking for a really fun read this summer, this should definitely be on your radar. I was offered this book for review from the publisher, and can honestly say that I really enjoyed it.
I really liked Chloe. She wasn't perfect by any means, but she was funny, intelligent, and not afraid to be herself, even if it earns her the odd glance from people. I loved following along with Chloe in her adventures, finding her way through Paris, renting a flat, making friends, and embarrassing herself.
I really liked the group of friends, both her London friends and her Paris friends. I appreciate it when authors celebrate female friendship because I think it can be easier to not do so. I would love to be part of their group, and found myself relating to each of them in different ways. Andover did a great job of representing women in all different life stages.
I had a slight issue with the Amanda storyline. I kind of felt like it didn't need to be part of the story. I guess she offered some comic relief, but I just found her creepy and out of place. That was my only slight issue, though.
I enjoyed reading this, and definitely think it makes a great summertime book to enjoy on a patio with a pitcher of fruity drinks. It will make you feel good, and who doesn't like that? You'll cheer for Chloe, hate certain people, and ultimately want to move to Paris. Or at least I do.
I really liked Chloe. She wasn't perfect by any means, but she was funny, intelligent, and not afraid to be herself, even if it earns her the odd glance from people. I loved following along with Chloe in her adventures, finding her way through Paris, renting a flat, making friends, and embarrassing herself.
I really liked the group of friends, both her London friends and her Paris friends. I appreciate it when authors celebrate female friendship because I think it can be easier to not do so. I would love to be part of their group, and found myself relating to each of them in different ways. Andover did a great job of representing women in all different life stages.
I had a slight issue with the Amanda storyline. I kind of felt like it didn't need to be part of the story. I guess she offered some comic relief, but I just found her creepy and out of place. That was my only slight issue, though.
I enjoyed reading this, and definitely think it makes a great summertime book to enjoy on a patio with a pitcher of fruity drinks. It will make you feel good, and who doesn't like that? You'll cheer for Chloe, hate certain people, and ultimately want to move to Paris. Or at least I do.
June 18, 2015
Cocktails at Le Carmen had me captivated from the very first page. The protagonist, Chloe Saddler, comes across as both likeable and relatable as she struggles to create a new life for herself in France, all whilst dealing with her demanding sister and trying to keep a long-distance relationship with her boyfriend, Scott, afloat. Things get even more complicated when she starts to have feelings for her new (and taken) boss, Jean-Luc. Having lived in Paris myself, I feel that Andover successfully captures the challenges of adapting to a new country with plenty of humour and lightheartedness.
I wholly recommend Cocktails at Le Carmen for any chick lit fan looking for a fun, well-written story which is full of laugh-out-loud moments and witty observations about Parisian life. I look forward to reading more books from this author.
I wholly recommend Cocktails at Le Carmen for any chick lit fan looking for a fun, well-written story which is full of laugh-out-loud moments and witty observations about Parisian life. I look forward to reading more books from this author.
June 20, 2015
Cocktails at Le Carmen, Isabelle Andover
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Genre: Women's Fiction, Literature/Fiction (Adult)
This appealed, sometimes some light, fluffy fun reading is warranted so I chose this one yesterday. Its what it says, light easy chic-lit type reading. No deep heavy emotions, not dark mysteries, just a fun story about Chloe’s move to Paris.
She’s been dating Scott for sometime, and they live together – she expected some token protest at least when her job relocated her to Paris, but he was just enthusiastic about what a good career move it was. Warning bells ought to have sounded then, but....so she trots off to Gay Paree and has a ball of a time – after the bad start of dire journey, inability to find a place to live and making a few mistakes. Still, her elderly, grey haired boss Jean-Luc said to call if she’d any problems so she does, and he offers her a temp home in the Nanny flat for his on the way baby, just to tide her over. Imagine her shock then when she finally meets him to pick up the keys and see, contrary to the mental image she’d drawn up, this swooningly handsome, beautifully spoken God man. She’s tongue tied, red with embarrassment and the Fabulous model type but cold Ice Queen girlfriend looks her over like she’s just crawled out of the sewer, and makes it clear that letting her stay wasn't her idea!
It kind of sets the scene for the next few months, with Chloe bumbling her way enthusiastically through Parisienne life. She does well at work, makes new friends and seems to meet Jean-Luc at times when she’s either hung over or wearing shabby/grubby clothes – mortification there we’ve all done that – why doesn’t no one we want to impress see us when we look good, but only when we’ve just snorted coffee and are wearing half of it??
I enjoyed this, though expected things to heat up between Jean-Luc and to go downhill with Scott quicker, but it made for a fun, lingering journey broken up by the mad brideszilla sister, and lots of French fun times. I loved how enthusiastic she was about Pairs, how she threw herself into life there, and seeing the sights from her view.
Stars: Four, its a fun read, one I enjoyed but not enough to re read, but is perfect for a beach read or train journey where something easy is needed.
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers
June 16, 2015
**I did not finish this book. I made it to about 16% and decided that this one wasn't for me.**
Here's a quote taken from the page NetGalley's description on this book.
A delightful debut that harks back to the early days of Chick Lit when heroines were flawed, funny, and forever battling for love and happiness. With quirky characters and classic comedic charm, Cocktails at Le Carmen is pure fun from page one.
The main character Chloe is not flawed at all. So much so that her job didn't fire her when they were downsizing, but instead promoted her. Not even a temp position in the mailroom, but a real promotion that would have her living in Paris of all places. Her boyfriend apparently is someone so good looking that she never thought he'd date her. "When ridiculously tall and good-looking Scott Mathews careered by in a conga line and pulled me into it, I immediately dismissed him as just another privileged idiot up for a laugh. Or rather, I suppose I’d salivated a little at the sheer attractiveness of him first, before quickly deciding that he was definitely out of my league...". Yup, super flawed. So far the most flawed thing about her is she speaks French with an English accent *Gasps*! She didn't go off on a tangent when she found two tickets to New York that her boyfriend was hiding, didn't attempt to hint around them to see what he had planned. Didn't get upset with him when he walked into her goodbye party already drunk. Didn't spaz out when he had to "leave" for work instead of seeing her off to Paris. So far she's the ideal, keeping it cool type of a girl. Seriously, there's nothing flawed about her character at all. Her appearance was never really explained besides her mom instilling in her daughter the want for expensive clothes and that she has brown hair.
The thing is I just wasn't excited to read about her. I'd find myself with some time to read and groan internally remembering that this was the book currently on my device. The story up to that part felt long and rambling, dense. Like a block of text that I could feel my eyes start to haze over when I'd go to read.
This book unfortunately just wasn't for me.
Here's a quote taken from the page NetGalley's description on this book.
A delightful debut that harks back to the early days of Chick Lit when heroines were flawed, funny, and forever battling for love and happiness. With quirky characters and classic comedic charm, Cocktails at Le Carmen is pure fun from page one.
The main character Chloe is not flawed at all. So much so that her job didn't fire her when they were downsizing, but instead promoted her. Not even a temp position in the mailroom, but a real promotion that would have her living in Paris of all places. Her boyfriend apparently is someone so good looking that she never thought he'd date her. "When ridiculously tall and good-looking Scott Mathews careered by in a conga line and pulled me into it, I immediately dismissed him as just another privileged idiot up for a laugh. Or rather, I suppose I’d salivated a little at the sheer attractiveness of him first, before quickly deciding that he was definitely out of my league...". Yup, super flawed. So far the most flawed thing about her is she speaks French with an English accent *Gasps*! She didn't go off on a tangent when she found two tickets to New York that her boyfriend was hiding, didn't attempt to hint around them to see what he had planned. Didn't get upset with him when he walked into her goodbye party already drunk. Didn't spaz out when he had to "leave" for work instead of seeing her off to Paris. So far she's the ideal, keeping it cool type of a girl. Seriously, there's nothing flawed about her character at all. Her appearance was never really explained besides her mom instilling in her daughter the want for expensive clothes and that she has brown hair.
The thing is I just wasn't excited to read about her. I'd find myself with some time to read and groan internally remembering that this was the book currently on my device. The story up to that part felt long and rambling, dense. Like a block of text that I could feel my eyes start to haze over when I'd go to read.
This book unfortunately just wasn't for me.
July 7, 2015
I was given this book in exchange for an honest review from NetGalley. I was so pleased and surprised by this book, it was fantastic! I am a fan of chick lit, especially ones that take place in England. This book fits that category perfectly. The main setting is in England and Paris. It talks a lot about the areas where Chloe is moving to, where she visits with great detail. It makes it really easy to imagine each place she visits without taking away from the storyline. I don’t like when books have so much detail that you are just like enough! Not this book, this book makes you want to visit the places and really get a sense of where Chloe is.
The plot is great and intriguing. Chloe is thrown all different kind of obstacles in the time that she has transfered her job. The obstacles are realistic of her age, hilarious at times, heart breaking at times, sometimes you’re rooting for her, and at times you’re scared for her. I can’t tell you what these obstacles are because I don’t want to ruin the book ;) There is also a bit of suspense when it comes to certain characters, you really start to think omg is this happening?
The characters are another fantastic thing about this book. Chloe is so likeable, Jean-Luc so yummy, and the others you either like or dislike. I find the only way you can talk about characters like this, is if they are well written, as if you knew them through their journey. None of the characters are perfect, each has a flaw, which makes them so much more likeable.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys books by Sophie Kinsella, Jill Mansell, Jane Green, etc. Now anytime someone asks me what a good chick lit book is, I will be telling them about this one!
The plot is great and intriguing. Chloe is thrown all different kind of obstacles in the time that she has transfered her job. The obstacles are realistic of her age, hilarious at times, heart breaking at times, sometimes you’re rooting for her, and at times you’re scared for her. I can’t tell you what these obstacles are because I don’t want to ruin the book ;) There is also a bit of suspense when it comes to certain characters, you really start to think omg is this happening?
The characters are another fantastic thing about this book. Chloe is so likeable, Jean-Luc so yummy, and the others you either like or dislike. I find the only way you can talk about characters like this, is if they are well written, as if you knew them through their journey. None of the characters are perfect, each has a flaw, which makes them so much more likeable.
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone who enjoys books by Sophie Kinsella, Jill Mansell, Jane Green, etc. Now anytime someone asks me what a good chick lit book is, I will be telling them about this one!
June 25, 2015
Chloe’s transferred from London to Paris for a one- year work contract. And while she’s there she misses her mediocre boyfriend Scott, crushes on handsome boss Jean-Luc, and meets new confidante Rosie. All’s well that ends well, but a lot goes on in the meantime!
This is a very light, fun story about shopping and girlfriends, cocktails and hangovers, and finding a good man while finding oneself. I enjoyed it but found some things a little disconcerting. Andover wrote in a few pages here and there that I thought were to move the plot in a certain direction, but then didn’t. They weren’t quite plot twists, and they weren’t quite plot inconsistencies. They were just odd hints or teases that I expected to be fulfilled in some later chapter, but weren’t. Some extra editing would have helped avoid these pointless insertions.
Besides that, I loved the love story, the friendships and the sibling rivalry. Andover wrote a terrific male lead… who wouldn’t adore a Jean-Luc with a French accent?!
Cocktails at Le Carmen is solid three star chick lit, and I’ll definitely pick up another Isabelle Andover… tout de suite!
http://randombookmuses.com/2015/06/24...
NetGalley provided an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is a very light, fun story about shopping and girlfriends, cocktails and hangovers, and finding a good man while finding oneself. I enjoyed it but found some things a little disconcerting. Andover wrote in a few pages here and there that I thought were to move the plot in a certain direction, but then didn’t. They weren’t quite plot twists, and they weren’t quite plot inconsistencies. They were just odd hints or teases that I expected to be fulfilled in some later chapter, but weren’t. Some extra editing would have helped avoid these pointless insertions.
Besides that, I loved the love story, the friendships and the sibling rivalry. Andover wrote a terrific male lead… who wouldn’t adore a Jean-Luc with a French accent?!
Cocktails at Le Carmen is solid three star chick lit, and I’ll definitely pick up another Isabelle Andover… tout de suite!
http://randombookmuses.com/2015/06/24...
NetGalley provided an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 31, 2015
First reviewed at Keeper Bookshelf
Cocktails at Le Carmen was such a delightful, laugh out loud story. I enjoyed Chloe’s adventures in a new country, at a new job and all the amusing complications that involved. It was such a joy to see her leave the sleazy boyfriend behind. Friends and family are strong factors in this fast paced story and we will love some and hate others – but that’s life, right?
I found myself laughing more during this novel than I have in quite a while. It felt good to really enjoy the nuances that simply bring out that need to laugh unexpectedly. Cocktails at Le Carmen is a charmer, one that you should pick up and read for yourself. The perfect beach or back porch book to indulge yourself with.
I would recommend this novel for anyone who enjoys a touch of comedy in their romance, a bit of culture shock and simply enjoys laughing out loud when the impulse takes you over. This is a charming story, one that anyone who loves a good story would enjoy.
*I received an e-ARC of Cocktails at Le Carmen from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
Cocktails at Le Carmen was such a delightful, laugh out loud story. I enjoyed Chloe’s adventures in a new country, at a new job and all the amusing complications that involved. It was such a joy to see her leave the sleazy boyfriend behind. Friends and family are strong factors in this fast paced story and we will love some and hate others – but that’s life, right?
I found myself laughing more during this novel than I have in quite a while. It felt good to really enjoy the nuances that simply bring out that need to laugh unexpectedly. Cocktails at Le Carmen is a charmer, one that you should pick up and read for yourself. The perfect beach or back porch book to indulge yourself with.
I would recommend this novel for anyone who enjoys a touch of comedy in their romance, a bit of culture shock and simply enjoys laughing out loud when the impulse takes you over. This is a charming story, one that anyone who loves a good story would enjoy.
*I received an e-ARC of Cocktails at Le Carmen from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. That does not change what I think of this novel.*
June 28, 2015
I was given this book for free by NetGallery for an honest rewiew of this book.
Chloe is 26 and works in London, when she get the chance to move to Paris for a year. Her sister Celine aka, Bridezilla is in the process of organising her wedding and the move gives Chole the opportunity to get as far away from her as possible. Initially she is unsure of leaving her gorgeous boyfriend Scott behind, and her lovely friends, but she makes the move and starts her new life in Paris. She begins to make friends and settle in at work, where her boss is the gorgeous Jean- Luc. Not only is he gorgeous! and a nice guy, but he also happens to have a beautiful, pregnant girlfriend.
I liked this book and I ened up reading it in less than 24 hours. I don't usually go for this style of book and I was not sure if I would like it or not. Chloe was a bit annoying at first as she seemed to be a bit of a doormat when it came to her boyfriend Scott, but as soon as she was away from him I began to like her more and more. Over the couse of the book Chloe began to become a more independent character and I enjoyed her relationships with her friends and family. It was funny, easygoing and an easy read. I hope there is another one, I would like to visit the chateau too!
Chloe is 26 and works in London, when she get the chance to move to Paris for a year. Her sister Celine aka, Bridezilla is in the process of organising her wedding and the move gives Chole the opportunity to get as far away from her as possible. Initially she is unsure of leaving her gorgeous boyfriend Scott behind, and her lovely friends, but she makes the move and starts her new life in Paris. She begins to make friends and settle in at work, where her boss is the gorgeous Jean- Luc. Not only is he gorgeous! and a nice guy, but he also happens to have a beautiful, pregnant girlfriend.
I liked this book and I ened up reading it in less than 24 hours. I don't usually go for this style of book and I was not sure if I would like it or not. Chloe was a bit annoying at first as she seemed to be a bit of a doormat when it came to her boyfriend Scott, but as soon as she was away from him I began to like her more and more. Over the couse of the book Chloe began to become a more independent character and I enjoyed her relationships with her friends and family. It was funny, easygoing and an easy read. I hope there is another one, I would like to visit the chateau too!
July 21, 2015
This was the perfect book to spend a quiet child free afternoon reading, a good old fashioned chick lit. A perfect read for your beach holiday!
Chloe Saddler has been relocated to Paris, France with her company. This means leaving behind her bridezilla sister, her friends and her boyfriend Scott. Thankfully though she speaks French and finds a place to live, Rosie and a Marks and Spencer! Her sexy new boss Jean Luc is also an added attraction but he is living with her girlfriend and has a baby on the way. But is Scott missing Chloe as much as she misses him?
I really liked Chloes character and reading about her new Parisian lifestyle which was told with a lighthearted humour and it inspired a real fondness for her and her friends and family.I felt this was a real throwback to the 80s I felt when chick lit started to come into its own. I could tell that the author was writing about a country that she knew and loved so her passion and knowledge really shone through.
An enjoyable read.
I received a copy of this book via netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
Chloe Saddler has been relocated to Paris, France with her company. This means leaving behind her bridezilla sister, her friends and her boyfriend Scott. Thankfully though she speaks French and finds a place to live, Rosie and a Marks and Spencer! Her sexy new boss Jean Luc is also an added attraction but he is living with her girlfriend and has a baby on the way. But is Scott missing Chloe as much as she misses him?
I really liked Chloes character and reading about her new Parisian lifestyle which was told with a lighthearted humour and it inspired a real fondness for her and her friends and family.I felt this was a real throwback to the 80s I felt when chick lit started to come into its own. I could tell that the author was writing about a country that she knew and loved so her passion and knowledge really shone through.
An enjoyable read.
I received a copy of this book via netgalley in return for an unbiased review.
September 18, 2018
Okay, so I stayed up till 3am to finish this book. It wasn't un-put-down-able, I was just enjoying myself and didn't want to go to sleep. It is the definition of fun, light, easy, chick lit. Not quite deserving of 4 stars, but better than 3 stars, so you'll just have to imagine a 3.5 rating. I did enjoy this book though there was a lot going on that wasn't really necessary, and a few too many characters that served no purpose. Also, I felt like it was a wee bit predictable That probably makes no sense. I enjoyed it nonetheless, but I'll most likely forget about it here soon. I also find it extremely weird that the author named a character after herself.
ARC received from netgalley in exchange for honest review
ARC received from netgalley in exchange for honest review
July 5, 2015
A really great read. Chloe is transferred to Paris when her company faces job cuts. A wonderful setting wraps you in the Parisian atmosphere. The sights and sounds and tastes of the wonderful city.. It is an amusing, humourous book with a great writing style. We meet her London and Paris friends and her family. Her sister is being a bridezilla and adds lots of humour to the story.
The cocktails from the title come from trips to Nightclubs! Which in turn provide her with hangovers to match and a less than perfect memory of the night before!
Jean Luc, her boss, adds the male interest to the book.
With many thanks to Net Galley for the chance to read this book.
The cocktails from the title come from trips to Nightclubs! Which in turn provide her with hangovers to match and a less than perfect memory of the night before!
Jean Luc, her boss, adds the male interest to the book.
With many thanks to Net Galley for the chance to read this book.
June 23, 2015
Great Book!
This was a great book by Isabelle Andover. Chloe’s job unexpectedly transfers her to Paris. She has to leave her friends, family, and boyfriend to start new in Paris. She has to learn her new culture while dealing with her bridezilla sister’s wedding. This is a cute, funny, chick lit, that will keep you reading all night long. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this author.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
This was a great book by Isabelle Andover. Chloe’s job unexpectedly transfers her to Paris. She has to leave her friends, family, and boyfriend to start new in Paris. She has to learn her new culture while dealing with her bridezilla sister’s wedding. This is a cute, funny, chick lit, that will keep you reading all night long. I am looking forward to reading the next book by this author.
A Review copy was provided to me in exchange for a fair and honest review. The free book held no determination on my personal review.
November 7, 2015
The romance in this book was almost non existent... I was waiting for it to kick in practically the whole book. There was hardly any interaction between the main and her love interest that I don't know how I was supposed to take their sudden coming together seriously. It wasn't absolutely terrible, but it was very poor/meh/boring. Felt like the beginnings of an idea rather than a fully realised story.
June 21, 2015
3.5 stars
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed reading Cocktails at Le Carmen. Although a plot was a bit far fetched and main character was to "perfect" I still very much liked the way this book was written and the development and twists (some more predictable than others) in the plot. Recommend as a light chick lit summer read.
I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I really enjoyed reading Cocktails at Le Carmen. Although a plot was a bit far fetched and main character was to "perfect" I still very much liked the way this book was written and the development and twists (some more predictable than others) in the plot. Recommend as a light chick lit summer read.
July 12, 2015
Charming and delightful. Ms Andover writes about Paris as Armistead Maupin writes about San Francisco. Here is a dreamy, witty, romantic vision of the French capital seen through an ex-pat's eyes. Her heroine, Chloe, can be seen as a 21st-century Lucy Honeychurch. I look forward to reading more from this author.
July 8, 2015
Cocktails at Le Carmen is a very light, fun story about shopping, girlfriends and of course cocktails, all in the city of light, 'Paris'. Simple as that - a light easy chick lit.
Full review at:
http://greatreadsandtealeaves.blogspo...
Full review at:
http://greatreadsandtealeaves.blogspo...
January 18, 2016
Wonderfully entertaining British chick lit!
September 16, 2021
Reading Cocktails at Le Carmen and meeting Chloe and Jean-Luc was entertaining and fun. Chloe is the type of character I find easy to relate to and connect with. Having one’s job cut and moved to Paris could cause enormous anxiety and stress in most people, but I admired Chloe’s ability to adjust and acclimate through the times of stress and anxiety, especially when looking for a place to live. Jean-Luc is one of those characters that readers just swoon over. He is the perfect man as evidenced by most of the women in the book are head over heels for him. He does not let that go to his head and is a likable and decent man and I was rooting hard for them to get together.
I enjoyed Ms. Andover’s narrative and descriptions of Paris. If I ever find myself in the City of Light, she would be a great tour guide, having first-hand experience living there.
My Final Verdict: I recommend this book to fans of chick-lit and romantic comedies, who crave happily ever after endings where the hero and heroine ride off into the sunset and the karma bus runs over the villains. I do wish the story went on a bit longer to see Chloe and Jean-Luc back in Paris after her sister’s wedding and meeting his parents. Cocktails at Le Carmen is my first book by Isabelle Andover but will not be my last.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Cocktails at Le Carmen from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed Ms. Andover’s narrative and descriptions of Paris. If I ever find myself in the City of Light, she would be a great tour guide, having first-hand experience living there.
My Final Verdict: I recommend this book to fans of chick-lit and romantic comedies, who crave happily ever after endings where the hero and heroine ride off into the sunset and the karma bus runs over the villains. I do wish the story went on a bit longer to see Chloe and Jean-Luc back in Paris after her sister’s wedding and meeting his parents. Cocktails at Le Carmen is my first book by Isabelle Andover but will not be my last.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Cocktails at Le Carmen from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
August 15, 2020
Cute and keeps you interested to the very end!
Just when you think the book has come to the end, you turn the corner to another surprise. I really enjoyed this one and look forward to reading more by this Author! Highly Recommended!
Just when you think the book has come to the end, you turn the corner to another surprise. I really enjoyed this one and look forward to reading more by this Author! Highly Recommended!
May 2, 2021
Cute book about a girl who moves to Paris for a year for a job and falls in love with France and her new life. And maybe.....her boss?
July 6, 2015
Thank you to Isabelle Andover and Simon & Fig for providing me with a copy of Cocktails at Le Carmen in return for an honest review and a spot on this blog tour!
The first thing that drew me to Cocktails at Le Carmen, other than the delightful cover, was the setting. I love France and I would relish the opportunity to spend some time in Paris. As such, I was excited to read about an English girl moving to Paris, how she sees the city and how she fits in with the locals.
Instead of the glamorous life imagined by her friends and family, Chloe Saddler ends up in an unknown city, without friends and without a place to live. I found the situation to be realistic and I enjoyed reading about her exploration of the city and about her gradually fitting in with life in Paris. I found myself caught up in the excitement of Chloe’s experiences and wished that I was along side her experiencing those moments with her.
The book concentrates not only on Chloe and her love life, but also throws in some great moments with her friends, old and new, and her demanding family.
The plot is straightforward and easy to understand. It is light and easy read, full of humour, romance, mishaps, misunderstandings, heartbreak…. all the factors which make a thoroughly enjoyable story!
The characters are varied and great. I loved Chloe, the protagonist of the piece. I found her to be a realistic and appealing character. I could sympathise with her struggle in leaving her boyfriend behind to start anew in Paris. I particularly enjoyed reading about Chloe’s relationship with her more demanding sister Celine (I like the addition of a French name here!) and mother, as well as meeting her friends/colleagues, both English and French, with all with their different characters. The relationship between Chloe and her English boyfriend Scott, and her crush on her hunk of a boss, Jean-Luc, was particularly fun to read about.
I really enjoyed Isabelle Andover’s style of writing and found myself completely absorbed in Chloe’s story. I liked to references to fashion/clothing speckled throughout the book and I’m guessing that the author is quite a fashionista herself?
I found myself reading Cocktails at Le Carmen in two sittings, racing through it, and I can say that I thoroughly enjoyed it. The book was a fabulous piece of escapism, albeit the ending seemed to work out just a tad too perfectly for my liking. For the romantics amongst us, Cocktails at Le Carmen is truly a modern-day fairytale!
Overall, I thought Cocktails at Le Carmen was an easy, entertaining and fun read. I’m looking forward to the next offering from Isabelle Andover.
The first thing that drew me to Cocktails at Le Carmen, other than the delightful cover, was the setting. I love France and I would relish the opportunity to spend some time in Paris. As such, I was excited to read about an English girl moving to Paris, how she sees the city and how she fits in with the locals.
Instead of the glamorous life imagined by her friends and family, Chloe Saddler ends up in an unknown city, without friends and without a place to live. I found the situation to be realistic and I enjoyed reading about her exploration of the city and about her gradually fitting in with life in Paris. I found myself caught up in the excitement of Chloe’s experiences and wished that I was along side her experiencing those moments with her.
The book concentrates not only on Chloe and her love life, but also throws in some great moments with her friends, old and new, and her demanding family.
The plot is straightforward and easy to understand. It is light and easy read, full of humour, romance, mishaps, misunderstandings, heartbreak…. all the factors which make a thoroughly enjoyable story!
The characters are varied and great. I loved Chloe, the protagonist of the piece. I found her to be a realistic and appealing character. I could sympathise with her struggle in leaving her boyfriend behind to start anew in Paris. I particularly enjoyed reading about Chloe’s relationship with her more demanding sister Celine (I like the addition of a French name here!) and mother, as well as meeting her friends/colleagues, both English and French, with all with their different characters. The relationship between Chloe and her English boyfriend Scott, and her crush on her hunk of a boss, Jean-Luc, was particularly fun to read about.
I really enjoyed Isabelle Andover’s style of writing and found myself completely absorbed in Chloe’s story. I liked to references to fashion/clothing speckled throughout the book and I’m guessing that the author is quite a fashionista herself?
I found myself reading Cocktails at Le Carmen in two sittings, racing through it, and I can say that I thoroughly enjoyed it. The book was a fabulous piece of escapism, albeit the ending seemed to work out just a tad too perfectly for my liking. For the romantics amongst us, Cocktails at Le Carmen is truly a modern-day fairytale!
Overall, I thought Cocktails at Le Carmen was an easy, entertaining and fun read. I’m looking forward to the next offering from Isabelle Andover.
July 20, 2015
Light hearted, fun and entertaining. This is exactly the kind of chick-lit book I read when I was in my twenties. Now at the ripe old age of 35 I find that I still enjoy a humorous romp through the romantic entanglements of free spirited, adventurous and responsibility free singletons looking for the next love interest. The humour running through the book kept me entertained. I got a real sense of who Chloe was and it was obvious from the first chapter in which direction her relationship with Scott was going to end. Although it made a very entertaining read it took half of the book to get there. I felt that I knew more about Scott than I did about Jean-Luc.
I found that I could relate to Chloe in some ways- the nutty siblings, parent woes, alcohol infused shenanigans and the inevitable hangover, the awful first dates, the endless wedding talk that goes on for a year before the event, even the ex in the bridal party was a familiar addition. Chloe seems to get through all of these tribulations with elegance and wit along with the help of a few cocktails.
From the romance angle everything happens very quickly. Both Chloe and Jean-Luc jump from being friends to lovers in record time. Event the reader is privy to Chloe's thoughts and we know that she fancies the pants off Jean-Luc we never really see that initial spark and mutual attraction between them grow. I would have liked to see Jean-Luc grapple with the dilemma of being attracted to Chloe and having a girlfriend at the same time. But as Chloe quite frequently points out, he is French and that's what they do so maybe it wasn't really a dilemma at all.
Although I lament the lack of depth I find that it is quite realistic in a way. Neither confess instant love for each other and there isn't a whirlwind wedding at the end. And when I think about it I'd quite easily hop from a guy like Scott to a new relationship with a ridiculously good looking French guy (or even a moderately good looking Inishowen guy who isn't an eejit). After all what more could a girl want?
There is plenty of scope for a sequel and I hope the author, Isabelle Andover, has plans to continue with Chloe and Jean-Luc's story. Her writing style flows seamlessly and is sharp and witty.
I found that I could relate to Chloe in some ways- the nutty siblings, parent woes, alcohol infused shenanigans and the inevitable hangover, the awful first dates, the endless wedding talk that goes on for a year before the event, even the ex in the bridal party was a familiar addition. Chloe seems to get through all of these tribulations with elegance and wit along with the help of a few cocktails.
From the romance angle everything happens very quickly. Both Chloe and Jean-Luc jump from being friends to lovers in record time. Event the reader is privy to Chloe's thoughts and we know that she fancies the pants off Jean-Luc we never really see that initial spark and mutual attraction between them grow. I would have liked to see Jean-Luc grapple with the dilemma of being attracted to Chloe and having a girlfriend at the same time. But as Chloe quite frequently points out, he is French and that's what they do so maybe it wasn't really a dilemma at all.
Although I lament the lack of depth I find that it is quite realistic in a way. Neither confess instant love for each other and there isn't a whirlwind wedding at the end. And when I think about it I'd quite easily hop from a guy like Scott to a new relationship with a ridiculously good looking French guy (or even a moderately good looking Inishowen guy who isn't an eejit). After all what more could a girl want?
There is plenty of scope for a sequel and I hope the author, Isabelle Andover, has plans to continue with Chloe and Jean-Luc's story. Her writing style flows seamlessly and is sharp and witty.
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