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The Winter Guest
In a grand villa on the shores of Lake Geneva, Dulcie’s grandmother nears the end of her glamourous and eventful life. The days pass quietly to the reassuring tick of the Swiss clock – until a visitor comes to their door…
1961
In the streets of Paris, Lise Erlach is in love. Twenty-two years old, the beautiful young Ambassador’s wife enjoys the very best the city has to offer: glittering receptions, a magnificent residence and an address book filled with the numbers of the Parisian elite. She is wanted at every party…and by one man above all. Their affair dazzles them both but in a distant sea, a crisis is brewing that will change their paths forever.
Present day
As snow falls upon the Alps, Dulcie sits by her grandmother’s bed, undisturbed until the visitor arrives. He says he must tell her grandmother something urgently - something that will make Dulcie realise the beloved old woman before her is a complete stranger... With deep family secrets unlocked, can she get the answers she needs before time runs out?
1961
In the streets of Paris, Lise Erlach is in love. Twenty-two years old, the beautiful young Ambassador’s wife enjoys the very best the city has to offer: glittering receptions, a magnificent residence and an address book filled with the numbers of the Parisian elite. She is wanted at every party…and by one man above all. Their affair dazzles them both but in a distant sea, a crisis is brewing that will change their paths forever.
Present day
As snow falls upon the Alps, Dulcie sits by her grandmother’s bed, undisturbed until the visitor arrives. He says he must tell her grandmother something urgently - something that will make Dulcie realise the beloved old woman before her is a complete stranger... With deep family secrets unlocked, can she get the answers she needs before time runs out?
400 pages, Paperback
Published October 8, 2026
About the author
Karen Swan
64 books2,535 followersKaren Swan is the international and Sunday Times best-selling author of thirty books. She publishes two books a year and is known for her immersive locations, strong female leads and commitment to research before writing. The acclaimed Wild Isle series is based on the real life evacuation of the remote Scottish isle St Kilda in the summer of 1930.
Karen's most recent novel Three Summers - set around a love triangle in Puglia in the 1950s -is out in hardback now.
Karen lives in Sussex with her family and three dogs. She is always muddy, cold and hungry.
Follow her on Facebook and on Instagram - @karenswanauthor
Karen's most recent novel Three Summers - set around a love triangle in Puglia in the 1950s -is out in hardback now.
Karen lives in Sussex with her family and three dogs. She is always muddy, cold and hungry.
Follow her on Facebook and on Instagram - @karenswanauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
October 26, 2026
In a grand villa on the shores of lake geneva.dulcies granddaughter nears the end of her glamourous and eventful life.the days pass quietly to the reassuring lick of the swiss clock-until a visitor comes to the door.
September 16, 2026
Perhaps because this is my first Karen Swan book, I found this completely captivating. This was the perfect balance of history, politics, diplomacy, espionage, fashion, and romance for me.
Her descriptive writings of locations in Paris made me feel like I was physically there, experiencing it alongside Lise. I enjoyed the dual timeline and the bite size chapters as it goes back and forth in time.
The plot kept me on my toes as it unfolded one way and then another up until the last few pages.
This was a 4.5 stars rounded up.
Her descriptive writings of locations in Paris made me feel like I was physically there, experiencing it alongside Lise. I enjoyed the dual timeline and the bite size chapters as it goes back and forth in time.
The plot kept me on my toes as it unfolded one way and then another up until the last few pages.
This was a 4.5 stars rounded up.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another beautiful story from Karen Swan.
This dual timeline follows Lise Erlach, a young woman married to a diplomat in the 60s, living in Paris, and her journey, which is peppered with secrecy and that of her granddaughter, Dulcie, in the present, as she sits by her frail grandmother, awaiting the day they all know is coming.
An unexpected visitor for her grandmother, another elderly man who knew her from the Paris days, keeps dropping cryptic hints of a secret he wishes to divulge to Lise only; however, the woman in question is rarely lucid enough to have a conversation.
Flashbacks to the past begin to fill in the gaps in a complex puzzle Dulcie starts to piece together, ultimately with the help of Ale, a Spanish artist she meets under unexpected circumstances.
This book is filled with mystery, espionage, and forbidden love, making it a beautifully tragic page-turner.
This dual timeline follows Lise Erlach, a young woman married to a diplomat in the 60s, living in Paris, and her journey, which is peppered with secrecy and that of her granddaughter, Dulcie, in the present, as she sits by her frail grandmother, awaiting the day they all know is coming.
An unexpected visitor for her grandmother, another elderly man who knew her from the Paris days, keeps dropping cryptic hints of a secret he wishes to divulge to Lise only; however, the woman in question is rarely lucid enough to have a conversation.
Flashbacks to the past begin to fill in the gaps in a complex puzzle Dulcie starts to piece together, ultimately with the help of Ale, a Spanish artist she meets under unexpected circumstances.
This book is filled with mystery, espionage, and forbidden love, making it a beautifully tragic page-turner.
October 18, 2026
An incredibly charming read, and such a fun blend of espionage, romance, history and politics, which made it all that much more interesting to me. I genuinely don't think I have read something as captivating in a while, and I truly appreciated this aspect of it. It also managed to keep me on the edge of my seat the whole time, constantly curious to find out where the story would go next.
The writing is so vividly descriptive and so incredibly immersive, it made it easy to feel like you are part of the story, too. I could imagine all the places the characters were in at all times, and I felt like I was right there with them at all time. I truly had a blast with the dual timeline, and jumping back and forth between Lise and Dulcie was so interesting. I enjoyed both sides, but I will admit I was looking forward to Lise's chapters more, as there was just something so sparkling about them.
It truly was such a great read, and it still managed to maintain a level of cosiness that makes it the perfect read to curl up with on a cold, rainy day. I think the narration also played such a fundamental part in making it as immersive and captivating as it felt, and I would highly recommend listening to it!!
Biggest thanks to Transworld & Libro.fm for the ALC; all opinions are my own.
The writing is so vividly descriptive and so incredibly immersive, it made it easy to feel like you are part of the story, too. I could imagine all the places the characters were in at all times, and I felt like I was right there with them at all time. I truly had a blast with the dual timeline, and jumping back and forth between Lise and Dulcie was so interesting. I enjoyed both sides, but I will admit I was looking forward to Lise's chapters more, as there was just something so sparkling about them.
It truly was such a great read, and it still managed to maintain a level of cosiness that makes it the perfect read to curl up with on a cold, rainy day. I think the narration also played such a fundamental part in making it as immersive and captivating as it felt, and I would highly recommend listening to it!!
Biggest thanks to Transworld & Libro.fm for the ALC; all opinions are my own.
September 30, 2026
I really enjoy Karen Swan’s writing and this one was no exception. I had been disappointed by her previous Christmas books as they had very little Christmas content but this one entitled ‘The Winter Guest’ gets over that issue nicely!
A very interesting dual-timeline set unusually in the early 1960’s at the height of the Cuban Bay of Pigs crisis. Lise has recently married a Swiss Diplomat but life as an Ambassador’s wife in Paris is not at all what she had expected.
Present day Lise living back at home in Geneva is elderly and fading fast but her granddaughter Dulcie is fast
uncovering the secrets of her past.
I did find the last 15% rather convoluted and drawn out but apart from that I thoroughly enjoyed this winter read. Great settings and Interesting storylines with a sprinkle of romance on the top.
Many thanks to Net Galley and Random House for the ARC.
A very interesting dual-timeline set unusually in the early 1960’s at the height of the Cuban Bay of Pigs crisis. Lise has recently married a Swiss Diplomat but life as an Ambassador’s wife in Paris is not at all what she had expected.
Present day Lise living back at home in Geneva is elderly and fading fast but her granddaughter Dulcie is fast
uncovering the secrets of her past.
I did find the last 15% rather convoluted and drawn out but apart from that I thoroughly enjoyed this winter read. Great settings and Interesting storylines with a sprinkle of romance on the top.
Many thanks to Net Galley and Random House for the ARC.
October 13, 2026
In the 1960s, Lise is living in Paris, as a newlywed bride to the Swiss Ambassador, and she gets swept up in her role as the perfect and beautiful wife, who is able to charm everyone. She catches the eye of a lot of men, but there is one in particular that catches her eye as well.
In the present day, Dulcie has to go back to her childhood home on the shores of Lake Geneva to be with her grandmother, who is coming to the end of her glamourous life. Her grandmother has dementia, and most days she doesn't remember who Dulcie is, which is very difficult. One day an old man arrives, who says that he was friends with her grandmother, and that he has a very important secret to tell her. He will tell no one but Dulcie's grandmother, but she is barely lucid enough to speak with him.
This story was filled with lots of glitz and glamour and beautiful descriptions of Paris and Lake Geneva. I enjoyed all of the political intrigue and the twists and turns. I felt very sad for Lise, and wish that she could have experienced a bit more happiness at the end of her life. The love interests in the story didn't truly win me over, they all just came across as a bit rude and grumpy (even for me). But that being said, I loved the characters of Dulcie and Lise, and I really enjoyed this story. This is my first book by this author, and I see that she has many more, so I think I will definitely seek more out. I love good historical fiction.
In the present day, Dulcie has to go back to her childhood home on the shores of Lake Geneva to be with her grandmother, who is coming to the end of her glamourous life. Her grandmother has dementia, and most days she doesn't remember who Dulcie is, which is very difficult. One day an old man arrives, who says that he was friends with her grandmother, and that he has a very important secret to tell her. He will tell no one but Dulcie's grandmother, but she is barely lucid enough to speak with him.
This story was filled with lots of glitz and glamour and beautiful descriptions of Paris and Lake Geneva. I enjoyed all of the political intrigue and the twists and turns. I felt very sad for Lise, and wish that she could have experienced a bit more happiness at the end of her life. The love interests in the story didn't truly win me over, they all just came across as a bit rude and grumpy (even for me). But that being said, I loved the characters of Dulcie and Lise, and I really enjoyed this story. This is my first book by this author, and I see that she has many more, so I think I will definitely seek more out. I love good historical fiction.
Review of advance copy
I have read and enjoyed other books by the author and The Winter Guest certainly didn't disappoint. From the very first page the author's writing had me hooked and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. I loved the dual time line and there was a great cast of characters. Plus I loved the place settings in the story. Overall a brilliant novel that I highly recommend to other readers. I look forward to reading more by the author.
💖 Thank you to Random Things Tours, the author Karen Swan and the publisher Bantam books for my proof copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
💖 Thank you to Random Things Tours, the author Karen Swan and the publisher Bantam books for my proof copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
July 25, 2026
Many thanks to Random House UK, Transworld Publishers and NetGalley for the advanced copy for review!
It feels like it's been some time since one of Karen Swan's classic winter releases. We've been treated to her historical 'Wild Isle' series, as well as more recently the sumptuous 'Three Summers' - all of which I'd highly recommend.
As with many of her other works, The Winter Guest features parallel stories: Dulcie in the present day, and her grandmother Lise in the 1960s. Dulcie is the archetype female lead of Swan's novels- she's rich, beautiful, and most men are drawn to her. You could say the same about her grandmother, except set in a more interesting past as the wife of the Swiss Ambassador in Paris. Both of them have similar tastes in men, though the stakes for Lise are much greater given the time period and her societal role. Dulcie on the other hand seems to be in a state of limbo while she sits in the wake of her grandmother's final days.
We have a familiar formula: the tease of a mystery from the first page, and the gradual unfolding of characters and motives. Of the two storylines, the past was a bit more interesting to me given the thrill of Lise's affair, the glamour of her marriage to the ambassador, and the backdrop of the cold war setting in. The men are your typical male leads: dark and brooding, or bright and flashy - and of course with a healthy dose of jealousy.
I enjoyed how immersive 1960s Paris was - the fashion, cafés and drama; it reminded me of 'The Lost Lover' (book 3 of Wild Isles), which had a similar setting. If you're looking for more of a festive holiday read, I would say that festivity seems to be a bit more of an afterthought than something more organically woven into the story. We do get a sense of coziness (and winter) just from the general setting (Switzerland and a ski scene) however.
While this wasn't my favourite winter release by Karen Swan, it's still highly entertaining and one I couldn't put down. Let's be honest - she could publish her grocery lists and I'd still find them thrilling to read. 😂
Rating this 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 🌟🌟🌟⭐
It feels like it's been some time since one of Karen Swan's classic winter releases. We've been treated to her historical 'Wild Isle' series, as well as more recently the sumptuous 'Three Summers' - all of which I'd highly recommend.
As with many of her other works, The Winter Guest features parallel stories: Dulcie in the present day, and her grandmother Lise in the 1960s. Dulcie is the archetype female lead of Swan's novels- she's rich, beautiful, and most men are drawn to her. You could say the same about her grandmother, except set in a more interesting past as the wife of the Swiss Ambassador in Paris. Both of them have similar tastes in men, though the stakes for Lise are much greater given the time period and her societal role. Dulcie on the other hand seems to be in a state of limbo while she sits in the wake of her grandmother's final days.
We have a familiar formula: the tease of a mystery from the first page, and the gradual unfolding of characters and motives. Of the two storylines, the past was a bit more interesting to me given the thrill of Lise's affair, the glamour of her marriage to the ambassador, and the backdrop of the cold war setting in. The men are your typical male leads: dark and brooding, or bright and flashy - and of course with a healthy dose of jealousy.
I enjoyed how immersive 1960s Paris was - the fashion, cafés and drama; it reminded me of 'The Lost Lover' (book 3 of Wild Isles), which had a similar setting. If you're looking for more of a festive holiday read, I would say that festivity seems to be a bit more of an afterthought than something more organically woven into the story. We do get a sense of coziness (and winter) just from the general setting (Switzerland and a ski scene) however.
While this wasn't my favourite winter release by Karen Swan, it's still highly entertaining and one I couldn't put down. Let's be honest - she could publish her grocery lists and I'd still find them thrilling to read. 😂
Rating this 3.5 stars, rounded up to 4 🌟🌟🌟⭐
October 20, 2026
The Winter Guest by Karen Swan completely swept me away! I found myself utterly immersed in the glamour, intrigue and hidden secrets of 1960s Paris. This is exactly the kind of historical fiction I love - atmospheric, richly researched, emotionally compelling and filled with mysteries that make you desperate to keep turning the pages.
What I loved most was how effortlessly Karen Swan brings her settings to life. I could picture ‘the manicured lawns, glittering chandeliers, polished parquet floors’ and magnificent Parisian residences so clearly that it felt as though I was there myself. Karen Swan’s descriptive writing is simply wonderful, allowing the reader to be completely immersed in the story.
The dual timeline worked beautifully for me, gradually revealing secrets and connections that kept me intrigued throughout. I was constantly curious about what lay beneath the surface, and I loved the way the mystery unfolded alongside the romance. Family secrets, passion, betrayal, sacrifice and questions of loyalty are woven together, that there is always something pulling you further into the narrative. The relationships are layered with uncertainty, and the questions surrounding Valentin kept me guessing. I found Dulcie’s story both fascinating and deeply poignant, and I was particularly moved by the complexities of her life and the sacrifices she makes. I was rooting for her character from the very first page.
I finished this book feeling thoroughly transported, completely absorbed in its world and reluctant to leave it behind. It has everything I look for in a wonderful historical novel: a fascinating setting, beautifully drawn characters, meticulous historical detail, emotional depth and a mystery that keeps you turning the pages.
Karen Swan has created another gorgeous story, and I wholeheartedly recommend The Winter Guest to anyone who loves historical fiction with glamour, romance and plenty of intrigue.
Thank you NetGalley, Transworld Publishers and Random House UK for sending me a digital review copy.
What I loved most was how effortlessly Karen Swan brings her settings to life. I could picture ‘the manicured lawns, glittering chandeliers, polished parquet floors’ and magnificent Parisian residences so clearly that it felt as though I was there myself. Karen Swan’s descriptive writing is simply wonderful, allowing the reader to be completely immersed in the story.
The dual timeline worked beautifully for me, gradually revealing secrets and connections that kept me intrigued throughout. I was constantly curious about what lay beneath the surface, and I loved the way the mystery unfolded alongside the romance. Family secrets, passion, betrayal, sacrifice and questions of loyalty are woven together, that there is always something pulling you further into the narrative. The relationships are layered with uncertainty, and the questions surrounding Valentin kept me guessing. I found Dulcie’s story both fascinating and deeply poignant, and I was particularly moved by the complexities of her life and the sacrifices she makes. I was rooting for her character from the very first page.
I finished this book feeling thoroughly transported, completely absorbed in its world and reluctant to leave it behind. It has everything I look for in a wonderful historical novel: a fascinating setting, beautifully drawn characters, meticulous historical detail, emotional depth and a mystery that keeps you turning the pages.
Karen Swan has created another gorgeous story, and I wholeheartedly recommend The Winter Guest to anyone who loves historical fiction with glamour, romance and plenty of intrigue.
Thank you NetGalley, Transworld Publishers and Random House UK for sending me a digital review copy.
October 12, 2026
I really enjoyed this winter book by Karen Swan.
The story is complicated and very well developed over the whole book, with everything being revealed at the end. It is a dual timeline story which brings us back to the early sixties, mostly in Paris but also in Geneva and with the background of the world political situation at the time. This first timeline tells the story of Lise, married to Valentin, posted in Paris as Swizz Ambassador. Lise gets caught in a complicated political and a love tangle which she did not realise would have a major impact on her life. The second timeline is now in 2026 when Dulcie, Lises's granddaughter, spends the last days of Lise's life with her and tries to understand what happened in the past. The present time is around Christmas, but this is not one of your gooey and chocolatey Christmas books. There is a nice Christmas ending though.
I thought the writing around Lise's dementia and how she has these last conversations with her granddaughter was superb. My mum has dementia and many of the thoughts and conversations resonate with me. What we wish we had asked before they could not remember, still giving happiness and comfort and living the grief over a period of time. This was a very poignant part of the book.
The society in the 60s in France is also well researched and written.
At the end of the story one wonders what would have happened if Lise had acted differently back in the 60's, and some of the other characters around her like Leo or Wagstaff. Sometimes, a small decision, a small act, will have a huge impact on a life . Secrets kept and all the unsaid can make it even worse, and that's really the heart of the story.
I read this book ever so quickly. I could not stop. It was a really great read.
Thank you to Netgalley, Random House UK, Transworld Publishers | Penguin and the author for giving me a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
The story is complicated and very well developed over the whole book, with everything being revealed at the end. It is a dual timeline story which brings us back to the early sixties, mostly in Paris but also in Geneva and with the background of the world political situation at the time. This first timeline tells the story of Lise, married to Valentin, posted in Paris as Swizz Ambassador. Lise gets caught in a complicated political and a love tangle which she did not realise would have a major impact on her life. The second timeline is now in 2026 when Dulcie, Lises's granddaughter, spends the last days of Lise's life with her and tries to understand what happened in the past. The present time is around Christmas, but this is not one of your gooey and chocolatey Christmas books. There is a nice Christmas ending though.
I thought the writing around Lise's dementia and how she has these last conversations with her granddaughter was superb. My mum has dementia and many of the thoughts and conversations resonate with me. What we wish we had asked before they could not remember, still giving happiness and comfort and living the grief over a period of time. This was a very poignant part of the book.
The society in the 60s in France is also well researched and written.
At the end of the story one wonders what would have happened if Lise had acted differently back in the 60's, and some of the other characters around her like Leo or Wagstaff. Sometimes, a small decision, a small act, will have a huge impact on a life . Secrets kept and all the unsaid can make it even worse, and that's really the heart of the story.
I read this book ever so quickly. I could not stop. It was a really great read.
Thank you to Netgalley, Random House UK, Transworld Publishers | Penguin and the author for giving me a copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
My Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers Random House/Penguin. I requested it because I've read and enjoyed many of Karen Swan's novels over the years, but this is far and away the best. This is an absolute "not put downable".So much research has obviously been put into it. Not just geographical and period research, but political too. The sixties "Cuban Crisis" (I remember it well), when America and Russia were in a practical nuclear stand-off, and the whole world held it'd breathy, is a main part of the story of diplomatic embassy intriuge and is cleverly woven through the tale.
I'm not a fan of shifting time chapters, but here the two stories are told in strictly regular alternating chapters. The grandmother, Lise, is in Paris in the summer of 1962, when she was the wife of the Swiss ambassador to France. And that of her granddaughter Dulcie in the winter of 2026, when she comes home to the family estate on Lake Geneva to be with her grandmother as she is dying. These stories, in many ways, run in parallel, the grandmother's past affecting the granddaughter's present. I was immediately caught up in the vivid descriptive passages, such as 1960s Parisian street life. I was mentally back in time after many years. You just know that this author has been to all the places she so brilliantly describes for her readers.
I had my doubts about the final chapters, the lead-up to the end, and the explanation of all the underhanded, inter-country maneuvering that created the story. I found that I had to go back and read some of these chapters again to understand what had been going on. But I still felt very empty when the book ended, which is the best indication of a great novel. This has to be Karen Swan's best.
I'm not a fan of shifting time chapters, but here the two stories are told in strictly regular alternating chapters. The grandmother, Lise, is in Paris in the summer of 1962, when she was the wife of the Swiss ambassador to France. And that of her granddaughter Dulcie in the winter of 2026, when she comes home to the family estate on Lake Geneva to be with her grandmother as she is dying. These stories, in many ways, run in parallel, the grandmother's past affecting the granddaughter's present. I was immediately caught up in the vivid descriptive passages, such as 1960s Parisian street life. I was mentally back in time after many years. You just know that this author has been to all the places she so brilliantly describes for her readers.
I had my doubts about the final chapters, the lead-up to the end, and the explanation of all the underhanded, inter-country maneuvering that created the story. I found that I had to go back and read some of these chapters again to understand what had been going on. But I still felt very empty when the book ended, which is the best indication of a great novel. This has to be Karen Swan's best.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
3.5 stars
Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I think I came into this book with the wrong expectations. I don't know why, because the synopsis doesn't say so, but I thought it was an historical Christmas book, which it isn't. That's not a negative on the book because it's not like it's promised something but not delivered on it, but it did mean I started on the back foot.
I am a big fan of multiple timelines and POVs, especially if the same characters appear in both because we get to see how they evolve. I liked bother in this but I preferred the scenes set in the 60s, there was just more glamarous and excitement.
There's no denying Karen's ability to give a sense of place, space, time, and atmosphere. Just the opening paragraph is loud enough to hook you.
It'll definitely appeal to people who like dual timelines, a bit of glamour, espionage, history, and secrets. It didn't hold my complete attention and it took me longer to read than normal because my focus kept drifting. I do think it could have been a bit shorter and that might have held my focus more.
I do prefer her winter books more than her summer ones but I think that's because I personally prefer winter. I think this is my fifth of her books, and whilst it's not as good as some of the others, in my opinion, it's still a strong novel with an interesting story, good world building, well handled timelines, and engaging characters.
Thanks to NetGalley and Penguin for the advanced copy of this title in return for an honest review.
I think I came into this book with the wrong expectations. I don't know why, because the synopsis doesn't say so, but I thought it was an historical Christmas book, which it isn't. That's not a negative on the book because it's not like it's promised something but not delivered on it, but it did mean I started on the back foot.
I am a big fan of multiple timelines and POVs, especially if the same characters appear in both because we get to see how they evolve. I liked bother in this but I preferred the scenes set in the 60s, there was just more glamarous and excitement.
There's no denying Karen's ability to give a sense of place, space, time, and atmosphere. Just the opening paragraph is loud enough to hook you.
It'll definitely appeal to people who like dual timelines, a bit of glamour, espionage, history, and secrets. It didn't hold my complete attention and it took me longer to read than normal because my focus kept drifting. I do think it could have been a bit shorter and that might have held my focus more.
I do prefer her winter books more than her summer ones but I think that's because I personally prefer winter. I think this is my fifth of her books, and whilst it's not as good as some of the others, in my opinion, it's still a strong novel with an interesting story, good world building, well handled timelines, and engaging characters.
Review of advance copy
I just love Karen Swan's writing - her stories are captivating and draw you in completely. ❤️📖. This book tells its story across 2 timelines and both are equally everything!
Lise lives a glamorous life in 1960s Paris as the young wife of a charming Swiss Ambassador. She soon learns life for an ambassador and his wife requires her to be on her front foot at all times, juggling politics and diplomacy. What she doesn't expect to find are the undercurrents of secrets and espionage which loom in the company she keeps. The setting for Lise's story, in the glamorous and romantic 1960s (which I just love) is told to perfection and is intriguing, weaving political crises of the time into the narrative.
The present day story follows Dulcie, helping to care for her grandmother, Lise, in her last few days in Geneva. As her life slowly comes to an end, Dulcie inadvertently discovers secrets about her grandmother's life that rock the foundations she thought she knew about her grandmother and her family. When an old friend of her grandmother makes an appearance, Dulcie starts to question who she can trust to help her get to the truth of the secrets in her grandmother's past.
The two stories weave together beautifully to create a wonderful story about love, family and the glamorous but dangerous political turbulence of the 1960s. A recommended read ❤️📖
Thank you @randomthingstours for providing me with a copy of this book to read and review as part of this BOOKSTAGRAM tour.
Lise lives a glamorous life in 1960s Paris as the young wife of a charming Swiss Ambassador. She soon learns life for an ambassador and his wife requires her to be on her front foot at all times, juggling politics and diplomacy. What she doesn't expect to find are the undercurrents of secrets and espionage which loom in the company she keeps. The setting for Lise's story, in the glamorous and romantic 1960s (which I just love) is told to perfection and is intriguing, weaving political crises of the time into the narrative.
The present day story follows Dulcie, helping to care for her grandmother, Lise, in her last few days in Geneva. As her life slowly comes to an end, Dulcie inadvertently discovers secrets about her grandmother's life that rock the foundations she thought she knew about her grandmother and her family. When an old friend of her grandmother makes an appearance, Dulcie starts to question who she can trust to help her get to the truth of the secrets in her grandmother's past.
The two stories weave together beautifully to create a wonderful story about love, family and the glamorous but dangerous political turbulence of the 1960s. A recommended read ❤️📖
Thank you @randomthingstours for providing me with a copy of this book to read and review as part of this BOOKSTAGRAM tour.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Synopsis-1961
In the streets of Paris, Lise Erlach is in love. Twenty-two years old, the beautiful young Ambassador’s wife enjoys the very best the city has to offer: glittering receptions, a magnificent residence and an address book filled with the numbers of the Parisian elite. She is wanted at every party…and by one man above all. Their affair dazzles them both but in a distant sea, a crisis is brewing that will change their paths forever.
Present day As snow falls upon the Alps, Dulcie sits by her grandmother’s bed, undisturbed until the visitor arrives. He says he must tell her grandmother something urgently - something that will make Dulcie realise the beloved old woman before her is a complete stranger... With deep family secrets unlocked, can she get the answers she needs before time runs out?
#mythoughts
I really enjoyed Lise’s story, set in the 1960s, with diplomats, lies, adultery, romance and treachery all woven into the story.
In the present day, Dulce sits with her grandmother, Lise, as she is dying. Then a guest arrives, asking to see Lise — a man who knew her many years ago.
But why is he here?
As the secrets and lies slowly unfold, we begin to discover what happened all those years ago. There are plenty of twists and revelations along the way, leading to a satisfying conclusion.
A really enjoyable read with plenty to keep you guessing.
Present day As snow falls upon the Alps, Dulcie sits by her grandmother’s bed, undisturbed until the visitor arrives. He says he must tell her grandmother something urgently - something that will make Dulcie realise the beloved old woman before her is a complete stranger... With deep family secrets unlocked, can she get the answers she needs before time runs out?
#mythoughts
I really enjoyed Lise’s story, set in the 1960s, with diplomats, lies, adultery, romance and treachery all woven into the story.
In the present day, Dulce sits with her grandmother, Lise, as she is dying. Then a guest arrives, asking to see Lise — a man who knew her many years ago.
But why is he here?
As the secrets and lies slowly unfold, we begin to discover what happened all those years ago. There are plenty of twists and revelations along the way, leading to a satisfying conclusion.
A really enjoyable read with plenty to keep you guessing.
October 11, 2026
I always look forward to the next Karen Swan and this one didn't disappoint.
Told through a dual timeline, switching between the early 1960s and the present, Dulcie has returned to spend her grandmother's last days with her, waiting for moments of lucidity to share those final goodbyes. Secrets, lies and family history are revealed, leaving Dulcie unsure of where her future lies.
This is such a beautiful and elegantly told story, with the grandeur of high society life in the sixties and the soft and gentle nature of Dulcie's life in the present and it works so well as it goes back and forth between the time periods.
In the sixties, Lise is navigating her way as a new bride with a very prominent role to uphold and in the present day, while being a successful interior designer, Dulcie is just trying to find her way and understand where her own life may lead and the key to the past might be a big help.
The main characters are easy to take into your heart and you can't help but hope for the best for them.
This is the perfect, curl up and lose yourself among the pages read that I fully recommend. You will be transported between the summer of the sixties and the winter of now through a love letter to life and the beauty of truth and honesty.
Add it to your TBR for a perfect Autumn/Winter read.
e-ARC Review
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Told through a dual timeline, switching between the early 1960s and the present, Dulcie has returned to spend her grandmother's last days with her, waiting for moments of lucidity to share those final goodbyes. Secrets, lies and family history are revealed, leaving Dulcie unsure of where her future lies.
This is such a beautiful and elegantly told story, with the grandeur of high society life in the sixties and the soft and gentle nature of Dulcie's life in the present and it works so well as it goes back and forth between the time periods.
In the sixties, Lise is navigating her way as a new bride with a very prominent role to uphold and in the present day, while being a successful interior designer, Dulcie is just trying to find her way and understand where her own life may lead and the key to the past might be a big help.
The main characters are easy to take into your heart and you can't help but hope for the best for them.
This is the perfect, curl up and lose yourself among the pages read that I fully recommend. You will be transported between the summer of the sixties and the winter of now through a love letter to life and the beauty of truth and honesty.
Add it to your TBR for a perfect Autumn/Winter read.
e-ARC Review
Ad
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Winter Guest by Karen Swan is a dual timeline novel exploring Lise's life as the young wife of a diplomat in Paris in 1961, alongside the present-day story of Dulcie, who is caring for her dying grandmother (Lise) near Lake Geneva. When a mysterious visitor from Lise's past arrives, long buried secrets begin to emerge.
I struggled to become fully invested in the characters at the beginning of the novel, although I found myself far more drawn to the 1961 Paris storyline and was always keen to return to it. The glamorous events, embassy life, and diplomatic circles provided an engaging backdrop for a story of secrets, lies, and shifting loyalties. In contrast, I found the present day storyline less compelling and felt that it dragged at times. The characters in the Paris timeline felt much more vibrant and interesting than those in the present.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read, but it didn't quite capture my attention as much as I had hoped. I think this book will appeal to readers who enjoy dual timeline historical fiction, family secrets, glamorous European settings, and stories featuring diplomacy, romance, and intrigue. I received an advance review copy from NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
I struggled to become fully invested in the characters at the beginning of the novel, although I found myself far more drawn to the 1961 Paris storyline and was always keen to return to it. The glamorous events, embassy life, and diplomatic circles provided an engaging backdrop for a story of secrets, lies, and shifting loyalties. In contrast, I found the present day storyline less compelling and felt that it dragged at times. The characters in the Paris timeline felt much more vibrant and interesting than those in the present.
Overall, this was an enjoyable read, but it didn't quite capture my attention as much as I had hoped. I think this book will appeal to readers who enjoy dual timeline historical fiction, family secrets, glamorous European settings, and stories featuring diplomacy, romance, and intrigue. I received an advance review copy from NetGalley, and this is my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a dual time line book set in 1962 and the present day. It has a bit of everything-romance, history, mystery, espionage and much more.
Dulcie has returned home to her Grandmother in Switzerland- unfortunately Lise is on end of life care and her days are numbered.
The book examines Lise’s early life in 1962 , at the beginning of her first marriage to Valentin , a Swiss diplomat as well as Dulcie’s 2026 sad vigil at her grandmother’s bedside where she meets an old friend of her grandmother.
As the two stories gradually unfold and intertwine, Dulcie, orphaned at a young age and knowing little of her family background, learns more and more,uncovering mysteries and secrets from the political world her grandmother and late grandfather inhabited in the 1960s Cold War era.
Both women meet the loves of their lives but there are very different outcomes.
I really liked both Dulcie and Lise, exceptionally strong women who are both loyal and brave. Both know their own minds too.
The plot was sufficiently fast moving so that “The Winter Guest”became a real page turner. I was keen to find out how both stories ended!
If you like historical romances with a mystery thrown in, this is definitely worth reading.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my advance copy.
Dulcie has returned home to her Grandmother in Switzerland- unfortunately Lise is on end of life care and her days are numbered.
The book examines Lise’s early life in 1962 , at the beginning of her first marriage to Valentin , a Swiss diplomat as well as Dulcie’s 2026 sad vigil at her grandmother’s bedside where she meets an old friend of her grandmother.
As the two stories gradually unfold and intertwine, Dulcie, orphaned at a young age and knowing little of her family background, learns more and more,uncovering mysteries and secrets from the political world her grandmother and late grandfather inhabited in the 1960s Cold War era.
Both women meet the loves of their lives but there are very different outcomes.
I really liked both Dulcie and Lise, exceptionally strong women who are both loyal and brave. Both know their own minds too.
The plot was sufficiently fast moving so that “The Winter Guest”became a real page turner. I was keen to find out how both stories ended!
If you like historical romances with a mystery thrown in, this is definitely worth reading.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for my advance copy.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I’ve written so many book reviews by now that I feel like I'm constantly repeating myself, but "The Winter Guest" is another hit from Karen Swan with its incredible originality.
The dual timeline structure is brilliant. Usually, with two storylines, I end up favoring one over the other, but both eras here were incredibly interesting and kept me completely hooked. Karen Swan’s writing is just fantastic—she creates such a thick, tense atmosphere, and the contrasts between the settings are stunning. You get the glamorous high society of 1960s Paris beautifully balanced against the quiet, chilly tension of a snow-covered villa by Lake Geneva.
As always, the characters are wonderfully deep and easy to connect with. Between the slow-burning tension and the central mystery, I just couldn't put it down - literally, I've stayed deep into the night to finish the book. It’s an amazing, gripping read that stands completely on its own!
In short: A brilliantly written, highly original mystery with great characters, spanning from glamorous 1960s Paris to snowy Lake Geneva. An absolute must-read!
The dual timeline structure is brilliant. Usually, with two storylines, I end up favoring one over the other, but both eras here were incredibly interesting and kept me completely hooked. Karen Swan’s writing is just fantastic—she creates such a thick, tense atmosphere, and the contrasts between the settings are stunning. You get the glamorous high society of 1960s Paris beautifully balanced against the quiet, chilly tension of a snow-covered villa by Lake Geneva.
As always, the characters are wonderfully deep and easy to connect with. Between the slow-burning tension and the central mystery, I just couldn't put it down - literally, I've stayed deep into the night to finish the book. It’s an amazing, gripping read that stands completely on its own!
In short: A brilliantly written, highly original mystery with great characters, spanning from glamorous 1960s Paris to snowy Lake Geneva. An absolute must-read!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Advanced Netgalley read.
I go by vibes and how much of a good time I had reading when I give my reviews. But I will note when I think something is done really well. This book did dual timelines perfectly, pacing was perfect for me, there was a main storyline weaved through both timelines and other plot points that kept me hooked.
This is my first book being split between two timelines. I should not have been nervous. The writing is really good and seamlessly takes you in and out of the timelines. You have present day and early 60s. If I had to pick, I preferred my time in the 60s but only slightly. I really enjoyed both.
Its hard to explain, I really enjoyed the book but at the same time didn't fly through it. But thats more of a me problem I think. Im reading this on kindle and I prefer physical books.
It was a solid read and would recommend. I went in with no idea what the book was about and was pleasantly surprised how drawn in I was.
It felt suspenseful, I wanted to know what was going to happen next.
I would definitely read another Karen Swan book after reading this and enjoying her writing style.
I go by vibes and how much of a good time I had reading when I give my reviews. But I will note when I think something is done really well. This book did dual timelines perfectly, pacing was perfect for me, there was a main storyline weaved through both timelines and other plot points that kept me hooked.
This is my first book being split between two timelines. I should not have been nervous. The writing is really good and seamlessly takes you in and out of the timelines. You have present day and early 60s. If I had to pick, I preferred my time in the 60s but only slightly. I really enjoyed both.
Its hard to explain, I really enjoyed the book but at the same time didn't fly through it. But thats more of a me problem I think. Im reading this on kindle and I prefer physical books.
It was a solid read and would recommend. I went in with no idea what the book was about and was pleasantly surprised how drawn in I was.
It felt suspenseful, I wanted to know what was going to happen next.
I would definitely read another Karen Swan book after reading this and enjoying her writing style.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I love Karen's books and always find her writing so captivating. This was definitely the case in this story, as we follow dual timelines, offering mystery & suspense amongst the gorgeous backdrops of Paris & Geneva.
I really liked the storyline of the book and you instantly get swept up in the political mystery and romance. The dual timeline worked so well in this book as during the past, we follow Lise in her newlywed bubble, amidst the politician world versus the present day, where she is at the end of her life and her granddaughter is unravelling the mysteries of her life.
I found the contrast between both moments in time to be quite deep, showing that no matter what we go through, our end is inevitable. It was also interesting to see how the past can coincide with the present and resurface.
I particularly liked the historical parts of the book, as I loved Lise's character and her strong willed sense of fashion was incredible.
There were twists along the way, surprising return of familiar faces from the past and it all made for a really good story. The ending was emotional, beautiful and was really nice for Dulcie and everything I hoped for her.
I really liked the storyline of the book and you instantly get swept up in the political mystery and romance. The dual timeline worked so well in this book as during the past, we follow Lise in her newlywed bubble, amidst the politician world versus the present day, where she is at the end of her life and her granddaughter is unravelling the mysteries of her life.
I found the contrast between both moments in time to be quite deep, showing that no matter what we go through, our end is inevitable. It was also interesting to see how the past can coincide with the present and resurface.
I particularly liked the historical parts of the book, as I loved Lise's character and her strong willed sense of fashion was incredible.
There were twists along the way, surprising return of familiar faces from the past and it all made for a really good story. The ending was emotional, beautiful and was really nice for Dulcie and everything I hoped for her.
October 8, 2026
🏔️❄️ ALERT: Put down the hot chocolate, pull up the faux-fur blanket, and prepare to have your entire family tree questioned. Karen Swan said, "Oh, you wanted a cute winter read? Bestie, I’m giving you high-stakes Parisian affairs, Cold War geopolitical drama, and decades of high-society lies." 🍷✨
The Winter Guest is giving pure alpine scandal, and honestly? We are seated. 🪞🕯️
The Vibe:
✨ 1961 Paris: Lise is 22, married to an ambassador, running the Parisian party circuit, and casually having a mind-blowing affair while global political tensions rise. The drama! The wardrobe! The sheer audacity! 💅💄
❄️ Present-Day Lake Geneva: Dulcie is quietly sitting by her dying grandmother’s bedside in a grand Swiss villa... until a random mystery man knocks on the door and basically reveals Grandma has been living a total double life. Excuse me, WHO was this woman?! 🗝️⏳
🏔️ The Aesthetic: Snowy Alps, ticking Swiss clocks, glittering receptions, and family secrets so deep they could sink a yacht.
If you love dual-timeline chaos, glamorous women making terrible decisions in exquisite vintage coats, and mystery plot twists that hit harder than a fresh snowfall—put this at the top of your TBR. 📖💫
October 19, 2026
I promise you this is your next 5 star read!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Is there anyone who can tell a story quite like Karen Swan can?
Her stories blend romance, mystery, excitement, and drama, giving them many layers and depth that will consume you.
The Winter Guest is no exception, threaded with espionage, forbidden love, and historical romance across two timelines, the 1960’s and the present day.
The present day being set against the calm waters of the Swiss Riviera, but the Lake Geneva plot is anything but tranquil. Dulcie’s Grandma, Lise, has Alzheimer’s and time is running out for unanswered questions.
The 1960’s timeline is set in Lise’s glittering party lifestyle of Paris, which comes with being married to the Swiss Ambassador, entertaining Diplomats, whilst weaving between secrets, lies, and betrayal.
Each timeline finishes with a cliffhanger on every chapter, which leaves you racing through the pages to the next one!
The Art element that runs through this story brings it an extra layer of beauty and elegance that I absolutely adored.
It moved me to tears.
Karen Swan is exceptional!
❄️❤️🖼️🗼💍🚁
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Is there anyone who can tell a story quite like Karen Swan can?
Her stories blend romance, mystery, excitement, and drama, giving them many layers and depth that will consume you.
The Winter Guest is no exception, threaded with espionage, forbidden love, and historical romance across two timelines, the 1960’s and the present day.
The present day being set against the calm waters of the Swiss Riviera, but the Lake Geneva plot is anything but tranquil. Dulcie’s Grandma, Lise, has Alzheimer’s and time is running out for unanswered questions.
The 1960’s timeline is set in Lise’s glittering party lifestyle of Paris, which comes with being married to the Swiss Ambassador, entertaining Diplomats, whilst weaving between secrets, lies, and betrayal.
Each timeline finishes with a cliffhanger on every chapter, which leaves you racing through the pages to the next one!
The Art element that runs through this story brings it an extra layer of beauty and elegance that I absolutely adored.
It moved me to tears.
Karen Swan is exceptional!
❄️❤️🖼️🗼💍🚁
October 22, 2026
The Winter Guest by Karen Swan ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Every year, I look forward to a festive read from Karen Swan, and she has absolutely delivered again with The Winter Guest! 🎄❄️
I love Karen Swan's signature blend of Christmas atmosphere without it being overly Christmassy, a touch of romance and a compelling mystery, and this year’s book had the perfect balance of everything I love about her writing.
The dual timeline worked beautifully, combining a historical mystery with a present-day romance. The 1960s Paris setting was wonderfully glamorous, while winter in Geneva provided the perfect atmospheric backdrop. I also really appreciated the research into the politics of the time, which added depth and authenticity to the story.
I connected with both Lise and Dulcie and was invested in their stories. Lise’s dementia is handled with such sensitivity and gentleness, adding a really touching layer to the novel.
A fabulous festive read with a little something for everyone: history, mystery, romance and plenty of winter atmosphere. Karen Swan has once again made her Christmas book an annual treat I wouldn’t want to miss! ❤️
Every year, I look forward to a festive read from Karen Swan, and she has absolutely delivered again with The Winter Guest! 🎄❄️
I love Karen Swan's signature blend of Christmas atmosphere without it being overly Christmassy, a touch of romance and a compelling mystery, and this year’s book had the perfect balance of everything I love about her writing.
The dual timeline worked beautifully, combining a historical mystery with a present-day romance. The 1960s Paris setting was wonderfully glamorous, while winter in Geneva provided the perfect atmospheric backdrop. I also really appreciated the research into the politics of the time, which added depth and authenticity to the story.
I connected with both Lise and Dulcie and was invested in their stories. Lise’s dementia is handled with such sensitivity and gentleness, adding a really touching layer to the novel.
A fabulous festive read with a little something for everyone: history, mystery, romance and plenty of winter atmosphere. Karen Swan has once again made her Christmas book an annual treat I wouldn’t want to miss! ❤️
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
As usual in my reviews, I will not rehash the plot - there are plenty of reviews like that out there!
I've read lots of Karen Swan's books, so was delighted to be invited to read this novel!
There are multiple strands to this dual timeline story - one follows Lise, newlywed ambassador's wife in Paris in the 1960s, the other features her granddaughter Dulcie. The timelines converge in the present day when Dulcie returns to Switzerland to care for Lise, who is dying. A series of photographs leads Dulcie on a mission to find out more about Lise's past life - helped in part by an old friend who comes to visit.
The descriptions of the glamour, fashions, social mores, diplomacy and politics of the 1960s are excellent. In turn, Dulcie's own story is interesting and optimistic. Overall, the story is very emotional at times - each timeline having its own share of romance and heartbreak. An excellent read that I couldn't put down.
A must-read for Karen Swan fans - she literally never disappoints!
My thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for an ARC. All opinions my own.
I've read lots of Karen Swan's books, so was delighted to be invited to read this novel!
There are multiple strands to this dual timeline story - one follows Lise, newlywed ambassador's wife in Paris in the 1960s, the other features her granddaughter Dulcie. The timelines converge in the present day when Dulcie returns to Switzerland to care for Lise, who is dying. A series of photographs leads Dulcie on a mission to find out more about Lise's past life - helped in part by an old friend who comes to visit.
The descriptions of the glamour, fashions, social mores, diplomacy and politics of the 1960s are excellent. In turn, Dulcie's own story is interesting and optimistic. Overall, the story is very emotional at times - each timeline having its own share of romance and heartbreak. An excellent read that I couldn't put down.
A must-read for Karen Swan fans - she literally never disappoints!
My thanks to the publishers and NetGalley for an ARC. All opinions my own.
October 13, 2026
How is it that I’m only JUST reading my first book by Karen Swan?! This is exactly why I love stepping away from my usual favourite genre of thrillers and exploring something new. You never know when you’ll discover an absolute gem! 😍
There’s so much to unpack without giving anything away! A beautiful story of history, family, glamour, chemistry, love, heartache and loss.
Told across two timelines, the 1960s and present day, we follow Lise’s life and that of her granddaughter, Dulcie, who is by her grandmother’s side during the final stages of her Alzheimer’s.
The writing brought Paris to life before transporting me to the snowy shores of Lake Geneva. I loved the historical detail, atmospheric settings and the way the two timelines intertwined. I was captivated throughout, and my emotions were on a complete rollercoaster! 🥹❤️
This story took me by surprise, and I would 100% recommend it!
Thank you, @karenswanauthor @randomthingstours and @penguinukbooks for having me on this tour 🩷
A stunning cover, beautiful writing and such a special read! You are in for a treat xx
There’s so much to unpack without giving anything away! A beautiful story of history, family, glamour, chemistry, love, heartache and loss.
Told across two timelines, the 1960s and present day, we follow Lise’s life and that of her granddaughter, Dulcie, who is by her grandmother’s side during the final stages of her Alzheimer’s.
The writing brought Paris to life before transporting me to the snowy shores of Lake Geneva. I loved the historical detail, atmospheric settings and the way the two timelines intertwined. I was captivated throughout, and my emotions were on a complete rollercoaster! 🥹❤️
This story took me by surprise, and I would 100% recommend it!
Thank you, @karenswanauthor @randomthingstours and @penguinukbooks for having me on this tour 🩷
A stunning cover, beautiful writing and such a special read! You are in for a treat xx
October 16, 2026
Another wonderful story from Karen Swan.
Thank you to Karen and Random Things Tours for my gifted copy of The Winter Guest, Karen’s newest novel that came out this month.
I instantly liked all the main characters and picked up who was who to each other quickly. I enjoyed the glamour of the 1960s chapters in Paris and learning how life was for an ambassador and his wife was then - though Lise made my heart ache. It took a turn that was not expected but that’s best left quiet 🤫! It discussed politics and how fine the balance is between countries that I didn’t really expect but I found it incredibly interesting and very emotional.
The modern day chapters made me sad reading about Lise as an old woman and Dulcie having to cope with the situation they are in.
As always with Karen’s novels, you feel transported to the world she writing about and the people are utterly believable and real making any joy or pain a tangible feeling.
This is a lovely autumnal/winter read to cosy up under a blanket with and devour in a few sittings. Highly recommend.
Thank you to Karen and Random Things Tours for my gifted copy of The Winter Guest, Karen’s newest novel that came out this month.
I instantly liked all the main characters and picked up who was who to each other quickly. I enjoyed the glamour of the 1960s chapters in Paris and learning how life was for an ambassador and his wife was then - though Lise made my heart ache. It took a turn that was not expected but that’s best left quiet 🤫! It discussed politics and how fine the balance is between countries that I didn’t really expect but I found it incredibly interesting and very emotional.
The modern day chapters made me sad reading about Lise as an old woman and Dulcie having to cope with the situation they are in.
As always with Karen’s novels, you feel transported to the world she writing about and the people are utterly believable and real making any joy or pain a tangible feeling.
This is a lovely autumnal/winter read to cosy up under a blanket with and devour in a few sittings. Highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Dulcie has come back to her grandmother’s home by Lake Geneva to be at her side as she dies. She is suffering from Alzheimer’s and her periods of lucidity are brief. Dulcie lost her parents as a young teenager and was brought up by her grandmother.
The story alternates between Dulcie’s present and her grandmother’s time as the Swiss Ambassador’s young glamorous wife in Paris in the early 1960s. She has an affair and their relationship is exploited by individuals trying to manipulate events. As a result her husband commits suicide and her lover disappears leaving her with a baby daughter to bring up.
A visitor from the past brings these memories to her mind and family secrets are divulged.
Dulcie also has to decide on her own future in the absence of her grandmother and maybe give a chance to love.
An enthralling story.
The story alternates between Dulcie’s present and her grandmother’s time as the Swiss Ambassador’s young glamorous wife in Paris in the early 1960s. She has an affair and their relationship is exploited by individuals trying to manipulate events. As a result her husband commits suicide and her lover disappears leaving her with a baby daughter to bring up.
A visitor from the past brings these memories to her mind and family secrets are divulged.
Dulcie also has to decide on her own future in the absence of her grandmother and maybe give a chance to love.
An enthralling story.
October 9, 2026
This dual-timeline novel follows Lise and her granddaughter, Dulcie.
Partly set in the 1960s, we follow Lise’s glamorous life as an ambassador’s wife in Paris.
Then, in present-day Lake Geneva, now elderly and dying, Lise is being cared for by Dulcie. When one day a stranger arrives claiming to be a friend with important news, which sets off a chain of secrets and lies.
I adored Lise! Her life was so fascinating. The author’s vivid descriptions brought her fashionable gowns, hairstyles, and makeup to life, making it easy to imagine being in Paris with her. I particularly enjoyed the glamour of the 1960s chapters but also the present-day sections where Dulcie uncovers her grandmother’s dark secrets.
A great read!
Thank you to Random Things Tours and Penguin UK for my arc in return for an honest review.
Partly set in the 1960s, we follow Lise’s glamorous life as an ambassador’s wife in Paris.
Then, in present-day Lake Geneva, now elderly and dying, Lise is being cared for by Dulcie. When one day a stranger arrives claiming to be a friend with important news, which sets off a chain of secrets and lies.
I adored Lise! Her life was so fascinating. The author’s vivid descriptions brought her fashionable gowns, hairstyles, and makeup to life, making it easy to imagine being in Paris with her. I particularly enjoyed the glamour of the 1960s chapters but also the present-day sections where Dulcie uncovers her grandmother’s dark secrets.
A great read!
Thank you to Random Things Tours and Penguin UK for my arc in return for an honest review.
October 17, 2026
I always know I'm in for a good read when I pick up a Karen Swan book, and her latest, The Winter Guest, is no exception.
This dual timeline story follows Lise, the wife of an ambassador living in Paris in the 1960s at the time of the Cuban Bay of Pigs invasion and the subsequent missile crisis. Moving to the present day, we meet her granddaughter Dulcie who has come back to Geneva to be with her grandmother in her final days - when a visitor arrives keen to speak to Lise, Dulcie finds herself learning secrets about her grandmother's life.
With a wonderful sense of place - from the glamour of. 1960s Paris to the snowy banks of Lake Geneva - and with the stories skilfully woven together, this is a captivating story beautifully told. There is diplomacy, there is mystery, there is heartbreak and romance - and I very much enjoyed it.
This dual timeline story follows Lise, the wife of an ambassador living in Paris in the 1960s at the time of the Cuban Bay of Pigs invasion and the subsequent missile crisis. Moving to the present day, we meet her granddaughter Dulcie who has come back to Geneva to be with her grandmother in her final days - when a visitor arrives keen to speak to Lise, Dulcie finds herself learning secrets about her grandmother's life.
With a wonderful sense of place - from the glamour of. 1960s Paris to the snowy banks of Lake Geneva - and with the stories skilfully woven together, this is a captivating story beautifully told. There is diplomacy, there is mystery, there is heartbreak and romance - and I very much enjoyed it.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I was asked to review this beautiful book from the publishers via NetGalley.
This is yet another great story from Karen Sawn.
There is a dual timeline weaving its way through this beautiful story. we have 1960s and present day.
There is Lise's life as the young wife of a diplomat in Paris in 1961, alongside the present-day story of Dulcie, who is caring for her dying grandmother Lise near Lake Geneva. A mysterios visitor from Lise past arrives- we learn of secrets from the past.
This book is full of secrets, glamorous Paris and Lake Geneva, tales of diplomacy, romance, and intrigue thrown into the mix.
I could not put this story down - I loved it.
Due for publication October 8th 2026.
This is yet another great story from Karen Sawn.
There is a dual timeline weaving its way through this beautiful story. we have 1960s and present day.
There is Lise's life as the young wife of a diplomat in Paris in 1961, alongside the present-day story of Dulcie, who is caring for her dying grandmother Lise near Lake Geneva. A mysterios visitor from Lise past arrives- we learn of secrets from the past.
This book is full of secrets, glamorous Paris and Lake Geneva, tales of diplomacy, romance, and intrigue thrown into the mix.
I could not put this story down - I loved it.
Due for publication October 8th 2026.
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