French Restoration

Tangled Hearts #4

by Sara Claridge

Chantal has fallen in love…with a rundown chateau.

There’s just one snag.

The new owner is planning on turning it into a bland monstrosity for the rich and famous. Winning the interior design contract is the only way for Chantal to save Chateau Vauquelin.

However persuading the heir to Kirkwood Hotel Group that she’s the right person for the job isn’t easy. Alessandro Kirkwood thinks she’s just some poor little rich girl who will disappear when the going gets tough.

But a series of mysterious incidents at the chateau alters everything.

Now Chantal remembers more than she’ll admit about that fateful day her parents died.

And the memory makes her blood run cold.

French Restoration is a standalone steamy romantic suspense featuring an arrogant hotelier, a sassy interior designer, a beautiful Parisian chateau, and a lost memory that might destroy them all.

Genres: Romance

152 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 7, 2015

About the author

Sara Claridge writes contemporary romantic suspense. Born in West London, she inexplicably moved to France several years ago on a whim.

When not writing at her desk in the eaves of an old farmhouse, she can be found in the garden. Usually with a glass of red wine in one hand and a good book in the other.

Reviews

[J. Saman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book. The descriptions and writing style of Claridge were superb to the point where I felt like I was completely immersed in the story, not just reading it if that makes sense. Alex Kirkwood is given the daunting task of revitalizing a rundown Chateau to become part of his father's empire of hotels. He hires French interior designer Chantal Chevalier who has a different vision for the chateau than he does creating all sorts of complications. But there is more here than meets the eye to this story and this chateau - no spoilers.
Alex and Chantal's dynamic was delicious. Their banter felt natural and perfectly crafted. Their love scenes were steamy and well...steamy. Overall this was an excellent erotic romantic suspense, not to be missed.

[Chris Angelis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I must confess it as a first thing: The romance genre is as far away as possible from my personal reading preferences. In a way, reading (and critically approaching) this book was a nice little exercise for me - it's not easy to objectively assess something you're not really interested in.

With this in mind, I think 'French Restoration' is exactly what a romance reader would expect, which is great news. The plot is very simple, easy to follow, containing some mild twists (more of that later), enough to keep the reader engaged, but otherwise it's highly predictable, following the familiar narrative course of the genre: woman meets man, at first she hates him, then she's attracted to him (particularly, it seems, because of his arrogance and - rather foolish - determination). They end up together, have a bit of a hiccup at some point (partly due to revelations regarding the woman's past), but it's a happy ending. As I said, highly predictable - and that's good news, considering the genre.

Things that I (as intended audience; a romance reader) thought could be different: despite predictability being a necessary element in such books, I found the plot twist to be a bit too predictable. More importantly, I found it not to be adequately justified - unless the reader accepts the person involved to be a bit mad, or at least acting irrationally (which is partly implied, in fact). Another element I noticed was the use of French through the novel. Although it generally works well, and I believe it was a good decision by the author, I also think it detracts something in terms of authenticity - in other words, it feels a bit too artificial at times, that even native French speakers would, generally speaking, have a quasi-nervous breakdown in English, interjecting a word or two in French in the meanwhile. It just looks a bit too much like a literary device, rather than a genuine expression.

Still, overall, the language is in accordance with genre expectations: descriptive, but not burdening the reader who wants a quick read. By the way, the length of the book is optimal: perfect for a few lazy summer afternoons. So, in conclusion, and despite the few critical observations above, I think this is a book romance readers would definitely enjoy.

[K.C. McKay · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I began reading French Restoration the wonderful, descriptive prose caught my attention immediately. Sara Claridge excels when offering vivid descriptions which places the reader in the pages with the characters and action. It's not something just any author can do, only talented ones. I enjoyed the writing as much as the story.

Chantal arrives on the scene to get the job of interior designer for a hotel restoration project in the French countryside. This wasn't a love at first sight meeting when she meets Alex and I enjoyed the conflict and banter of the two of them having seemingly different if ideas. However Alex is not the "plasterboard" kind of guy Chantal envisioned. As the working relationship grows, so does the "behind the scenes" action. I don't want to give anything away and let the readers enjoy the pleasures just as I did. I felt an emotional connection with the characters which is what great writing is all about. Claridge did just that – and more.

If you're looking for rich writing with characters who bring passion to the pages, the French Restoration won't let you down. Curl up with a nice glass of Beaujolais and enjoy.

[Ravenna Young · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a lovely read. I became glued from the first paragraph but not in an edge of my seat kind of way...it was the poetic manner in which Claridge weaves a romantic tale set at the enticingly described Chateau Vauquelin. The skilled description left me craving a visit to the Chateau and at times I felt as though I was actually there. The characters were relatable and likeable characters. It wasn’t your typical, boy meets girl and they click, kind of romance, which I really liked. The banter between Chantal and Alex at times made me laugh, but mostly I just really enjoyed the entire atmosphere of the story, particularly the French culture and scenery. It was a wonderfully relaxing way to spend my Sunday and I will read the first in this series next.

[Annabelle Costa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very mesmerizing read. I loved the beautiful descriptions of France… It really made me feel like I was there. Chantel and Alex were well rounded and drew me in. They weren't stereotypical nice people, but had very real faults and flaws. Even though I hadn't read the first book, I felt like I could still get into the characters. There were a lot of twists and turns that kept me guessing through the whole story, but I was rooting for Alex and Chantel the whole time!

[Jin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting book about restoration with romance and mysteries.
it starts with someone opens a secret door and vanishes.
Chantal is an interior designer who is obsessed with this new project Chateau Vauquelin. She is trying to land the gig by entering the chateau and meets Alex. First impression of each other wasn’t very pleasant but they learn quickly there were drawn to each other.
Alex is trying to prove to his father he can turn a project around and Chantal is trying to prove to his brother she can work. Since she is one of the competitor for the interior job, they kept running into each other. Both shouldn’t get involve with each other but they kept running into each other and both are enjoying each other’s company.
And there is mysterious person who is trying to sabotage the restoration that will damage both Alex and Chantal.
From the start of the project, they were running into mysterious problems and Chantal is involved in most of the incidents. Chantal is determined to finish the project but things aren’t working the way it should be.
Amidst of all the incidents, Chantal and Alex are falling for each other but Chantal’s dark past keeps creeping in.
This suppose to be secret project of Alex but things weren’t going to be kept quiet.
Will Chateau will be finish on time or it will be ruined by mysterious person.
I did enjoy reading this book. I didn’t read the first one but it could be stand alone book.

Thanks to Netgalley for my ARC for honest review.

[Sarah Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I finished French Restitution (the first book in this French Romance series), I immediately wanted to read this, the second, French Restoration (yes you can check my review, that’s exactly what I said). And I wasn’t disappointed. Far from it. Rounded characters and a well-constructed story that kept me glued to it and also guessing from a whodunit perspective. I love how this second book has taken elements of the first and built on them, without relying on them in any way whatsoever. It flows beautifully from beginning to end.
I found French Restoration a great read, with interesting characters and I love the way that the French connection is accented throughout the book. I found myself re-reading many parts of the book, not because I forgot, or for any other reason that it’s so well written and descriptive in such a way, that it’s easy to envisage the situation (I WANT to visit the Chateau… if indeed it exists somewhere other than the author’s imagination). I can’t wait to see how the third book fits in, continues the series and who the author selects to be the main character (I have my thoughts, but to tell would be a spoiler for this book).

[C.J. Fallowfield · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars for a wonderfully descriptive read, set in France. When Alex, Alessandro, Kirkwood is tasked to take on the modernisation of dilapidated Chateau Vauquelin, bringing it into the 21st century to solidify his position at the head of his father's hotel empire, things don't go to plan. Not only are there a series of setbacks, by someone with insider knowledge who appears hellbent on halting the restoration in its tracks, but the French interior designer Alex hires, Chantal Chevalier, brings more complications to both his business and his heart. Can he trust her, or is she looking to bring him to his knees, in more way than one? There was a great amount of beauty in some of Claridge's descriptives and the pace of the story unfolding was great, as were the few erotic scenes that firmly placed this is a romantic, erotic suspense category for me. Creative story-telling and I'd happily read more by this author.
***I was provided with a free copy by the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review***

[Alicia Kaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is beautifully written and you will be pulled into an enchanting setting and wishing you were there in a chateau in France. The descriptions are so vivid and I love this authors style of writing. There are a few raunchy scenes and I dare not spoil this for you. This is a lovely book and I would read more from this author.

[Leon Huet · Rating 4 out of 5]

French Restoration is well written and appealing. It concerns the restoration of a villa near Paris and the racy beginnings of a relationship between the American owner, Alex, and the interior designer, Chantal. Other events underlay the main arc of the story, namely intrigue surrounding delays to the project and a traumatic event in Chantal’s past. These strands, and the well-drawn characters, provide a richness to the storytelling.

I’m not an avid reader of the romance genre – just fancied something a bit different – so any criticism should be seen in that context. I did find character reactions to issues surrounding the restoration a bit melodramatic at times, and the scheming somewhat contrived. But perhaps that’s just my taste.

Ultimately, the prose is fluent and colourful, and Alex and Chantal spark off each other with enjoyable tit-for-tats whilst fighting against their inevitable attraction. For those who enjoy romance, French culture, descriptive prose, real characters, convincing dialogue and a bit of intrigue, there is much to admire here.

[Mariyam Hasnain · Rating 4 out of 5]

French restoration is a story of wealthy kids and family secrets blended into a tonic of love and steamy romance. Chantal, an interior designer by profession, weaves a fragile world around her to keep herself away from her bleak past. She takes up the charge of remodeling the antique French country house to restore its antiquity and keep it safe from the wealthy desires of American Hotelier Alex Kirkwood. But during the course of restoring the ancient Chateau in the outskirts of Paris, she unknowingly succumbs to Alex’s manly charms. Alex also couldn’t resist himself falling for a 27-year-old French beauty who makes him weak in his knees every time he sees or thinks of her. What started as a mere physical attraction to simmer down the boiling desires between the two individuals, transforms into an undying feeling of love, and Chantal struggles hard to keep her past destroy, Alex’s social repute.

Written in third person limited point of view, the story is well plotted with rich prose and ornamented vocabulary usage. Intermittent twists and turns kept me intrigued and at the same time passionate sexual encounters between the lead characters made me re-read those steamy sequences just to feel the heat developing between the two. I loved the characters, especially, Alessandro’s alpha male image of a dominating boss and at the same time of a caring lover who wants Chantal back in his life at any cost.

I really liked the fascinating cover of the book and the well structured story line; however, there were times when I felt disconnected. I think it is because the usage of some of the French words and sentences that aren’t translated into English. Had the author put up a glossary or simply added the English translation within brackets, it would have been an easier read for me.

[Shakera · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a charming short story about finding love while trying to navigate your future as you are piecing together and understanding your past.

Chantal is trying to move on from a frightful nightmare of her past and just as she is starting to, she takes a new job doing interior decorating for Alex Kirkwood. It's what she loves and what she is passionate about. The chemistry between the two is wonderful and full of tender moments, but also full of realness and at times confusion. Their relationship is true to life in the sense of seeing them go from co-workers to friends to lovers, but the confusion lies in her trying to remember her past so that she can see what lies ahead in her future.

It is wonderfully written, however if you don't speak French you should want to have either a dictionary or the internet handy. The dialogue gives you some context as to what Chantal is saying even though it's in French, but couldn't hurt to have one of those nearby. While there is romance, there is also suspense. Someone has set out to sabotage Chantal's work and Chantal herself in the process. While it wasn't hard to figure out who it was, you were still invested and engaged in the story to see how it would play out. Well done!

- See more at: http://www.theromancereviews.com/view...

[Lucretia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I totally read this series out of order, so I can safely tell you these are truly standalone stories. That said they are wonderful and you'll want to read them all. I enjoyed this one as much as the other parts. I think what really stands out to me is the skill in crafting a setting that is fully immersive. I've never been out of the US but I could picture these places and feel the culture wrap around me. The author has a beautiful voice and real deft hand with characters as well. I loved the feel of the relationship and that it wasn't an insta-love type thing at all. It ticked all of the romance boxes for me and left me feeling satisfied at the end.

[Ellie Crowe · Rating 3 out of 5]

A well written romantic suspense with a French speaking heroine who is an interior designer. The heroine's tragic past haunts her. Her romance with the hero is passionate but does not run smoothly as the hero has many problems of his own when it comes to relationships. I liked the heroine but wouldn't want to date the hero. He was a bit too changeable. He did give his best in bed though.
Most of the story takes place in a beautiful historic chateau in the French countryside, a nice setting and atmospheric for some of the scenes with the heroine in danger. The details of renovating the old chateau were interesting and I liked the authenticity of descriptions of French countryside setting, explained by the fact that the author lives in a cottage in France.

[D.C. Triana · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chantal Chevalier is a sassy interior designer who has just been hired to work on the Chateau Vauquelin for the enigmatic and sexy hotelier, Alessandro Kirkwood. Although their relationship starts off a bit rocky, there's definitely electricity and sexual tension crackling in the air. This dynamic couple is full of passion and sensuality, making for an enticing read that makes you crave for more. I couldn't put the book down, especially after connecting with the characters. Alessandro is just my type of guy with his sultry looks and that rogueishness about him. Chantal's past makes her character even more profound, and her spunkiness makes for a fun read. The story is a whirlwind of steaminess that makes you want more.

[Ronesa Aveela · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was hooked from the start. Half the art of writing is more than the story that's told; it's the way the author puts together words to make the reader experience the surroundings. This story excels in that. The story opens (and ends) with poetic writing that vividly describes an old building.

Although the rest of the story isn't as poetic, it is well-written and has more depth than many romances--without neglecting all those things romance readers love the most: tension between the main character and steamy sex. Add to that a mystery surrounding the chateau and the main female character, and you have a winner.

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second book in the French Romance series and the first book by this Author that I have read. A well-written story that drew me in from the first page. Chantal and Alessandro Kirkwood's story has suspense, drama, danger, a villain,and romance. A story that I enjoyed reading. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[CeeRee Fields · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chantal was and is my favorite character and I was so happy to see her story unfold. Alex was the perfect foil for her. I also loved the setting and hope we get to visit it again later. *crosses fingers*

[Lydia Larue · Rating 4 out of 5]

French Restoration is a romance novel that is told in the third person. The chapters flew by. When I began reading it, I couldn't put it down.

I found French Restoration to be well-written, detailed, but it is not too complex. The novel itself was easy to follow. The dialog also flowed well.

I liked the pacing of the first chapter, and as I continued reading, I was pleasantly surprised that the pacing was consistent throughout the novel.

I liked how Alessandro and Chantel interacted. Their relationship flowed naturally, and I am sure that housewives could picture themselves as Chantel. She is relatable.

On some of the french, I did have to open my translator program. I would have liked some kind of legend for the foreign language. However, it didn't detract from the story.

I would recommend French Restoration to anyone who likes suspense. This is a good way to spend a rainy day.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

We get Chantal's story!! It's such a fantastic story filled with such heart, from her tragic upbringing to her success as an interior decorator. This mystery/story was more tragic compared to the others and had more self development/ soul searching, so it was a nice change in relation to the other books in the series. Another change is the hero in this one is American, rather than French. I definitely prefer her French heroes, but that's probably because I'm American and like 90% of the books I read have American heroes in them.
Anyway, it's a pretty easy read with good transitioning and an easy flow to the story. I enjoyed the change in POV to the antagonist it added some suspense to the story.

This is the fourth in the series and can be read as a standalone, but I'd recommend reading the others because they are very enjoyable!!

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book four in The Tangled Hearts Series and it is Chantal and Alessandro's story and it is a must read. I absolutely loved this book so much and I couldn't put it down as you felt like you were there with them and going through everything yourself and it is my favourite book of the series. There are twists and turns along with intrigue, mystery, suspense, danger, drama, hope, love and some really difficult situations that are so well written. Sara Claridge is a brilliant author and writer and I definitely recommend you read this book and series as it definitely keeps your attention and worth reading. I look forward to reading more books by Sara in the future.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Denis Hachey · Rating 5 out of 5]

An enjoyable romance read that kept me turning the pages. It follows the story of Chantal, a french interior designer who bids for a job to restore Chateau Vauquelin. The boss, Alessandro is intrigued with her from the start and although they both have their reasons for not wanting to get involved, the attraction between them is strong. Their romance is filled with many issues though, and you never quite know if they will overcome them. There is also a mystery surrounding Chantal's past that keeps getting in the way. Great writing and storyline.

[Brenda Moser · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book four in the series brings Chantal and Alessandro's story. The author does a terrific job bringing strong characters and pulled me in with all the mystery and intrigue. I was glued to the pages with the story line and all they have to go through. It's well written with perfectly painted scenes,moves quickly and smoothly and is a great read.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.

[Shannon · Rating 3 out of 5]

A perfect lazy summer read for a quiet afternoon. This book conforms to the typical romance novel, with an added twist of mystery. The writing was good (with a few grammatical errors here and there), and the characters were ok - not overly annoying but I am not enamored with them either.

There was nothing really wrong with the book, but there is nothing memorable about it either.

[Kimberly · Rating 4 out of 5]

The book is a good, and enjoyable romantic suspense read. The story has a good story line. The characters are good, and they have good chemistry.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kathy Mccalmon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book 4 in the tangled hearts series. The characters are well developed and the storyline is full of mystery secrets and suspense

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Mary]

This is the fourth story in the "Tangled Hearts" series. It is a stand alone read that is an interesting story! A little suspense and a very captivating story. This is Chantel and Alex's story. It is a nicely developed story that I really enjoyed. Love the characters and the play between them.

[M.W. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! Such an amazing author! I can't wait to read more in the future. Definitely recommend!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Alex Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic addition to the series. Delightfully sinful. Wonderfully written characters, and a well written story. Would recommend.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[J.S. Simon · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

It's been a long time since I've read a romance novel and I tried to compare this one to the many that I've read in years past. I think the author did many things well: the writing is smooth, basic grammar and sentence structure seamless, if a few too many typos; the characters, especially the female lead, were clearly defined; the French settings, including the chateau and Paris, were described just enough and with an ease indicating the author's personal knowledge; the focus of the story, remodeling an ancient chateau, was framed by the author from the beginning and authentic and interesting details of this process were deftly interspersed throughout the story.

The main character, Chantal, has hidden, unresolved trauma which is hinted at from the beginning and becomes increasingly apparent as the story progresses.Chantal's scandalous past Is revealed and resolved through the addition of a villain who mysteriously, and anonymously appeared throughout the story. I liked Chantal from the beginning, especially her determination to succeed on her own in a tough, male-dominated profession. When she was overwhelmed by the past trauma, she mostly showed courage in trying to endure it. The only moments in which her strength of character seemed inexplicably lacking were when she was arguing with Alessandro.

I wanted to know more about the leading man, Alessandro. His back story is interesting, and the author provides clear connections to his family connections.The conversations between him and his father are very well done. This book is the second in the series, I believe, and the first one I've read. It has more than enough detail to be a stand-alone read; the hints regarding his background make me curious and want to read the earlier work. It may be that the earlier work helps define his character. In this one, he seemed to vacillate between a sophisticated, decisive hotelier and an early 20-something who still has some maturing to do. The author explains this, I think, by referencing his earlier relationship in which he was played and discarded. Because I have written adult erotic novels, the sex scenes in this romance novel seemed to lack heat.

As romance novel with some suspense, set in an interesting locale, with two strong characters, the story has a fast pace and genuine suspense. It's an absorbing read.

I'm giving it 4 stars instead of five because there were a fair amount of typos.