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Rosie’s Little Café on the Riviera
A summer of taking chances!
Rosie Hewitt’s dream of opening a little French café on the Riviera is finally coming true. She’s giving up on love and instead chasing her own perfect recipe for happiness…
Only, she never expected the oh-so-sexy, award-winning chef, Sebastian Groc, to set up a rival restaurant next door – or for his freshly-baked croissants to smell quite so delicious.
But with just a few days until she opens her doors and all her sugar-coated dreams crumbling around her, Rosie isn’t prepared to give up without a fight!
337 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 23, 2017
794 people are currently reading
751 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Bohnet
39 books287 followersSixteen years ago Richard and I, with our then dog, 14 year old Holly in a trailer attached to Richard's bike, cycled down through western France via the canal paths, arriving in Antibes in July. With the exception of two fleeting visits back to the UK we have lived in France ever since.
For the past five years we have lived in a small cottage in central Brittany with one large collie dog called Viking, one fat cat known as Little’un and a young tortoiseshell cat called Missy. Oh, and there are various ducks and chickens in the garden, and a large pond with about a hundred fish in!
I have contributed short stories and serials to many of the UK women's magazines including, The People's Friend, Candis, My Weekly, Best, Yours and my stories have been published in Australia, Sweden, South Africa and Ireland.
I also write magazine features and my work has been published in national magazines and newspapers like, The Sunday Times, The Sunday Telegraph, Daily Mail, Daily Telegraph, Home and Country, Devon Life. For over three years I had my own newspaper column in the South Hams Group of Newspapers, that took a wry look at family life.
I am a member of the Romantic Novelists' Association and the Society of Authors.
For the past five years we have lived in a small cottage in central Brittany with one large collie dog called Viking, one fat cat known as Little’un and a young tortoiseshell cat called Missy. Oh, and there are various ducks and chickens in the garden, and a large pond with about a hundred fish in!
I have contributed short stories and serials to many of the UK women's magazines including, The People's Friend, Candis, My Weekly, Best, Yours and my stories have been published in Australia, Sweden, South Africa and Ireland.
I also write magazine features and my work has been published in national magazines and newspapers like, The Sunday Times, The Sunday Telegraph, Daily Mail, Daily Telegraph, Home and Country, Devon Life. For over three years I had my own newspaper column in the South Hams Group of Newspapers, that took a wry look at family life.
I am a member of the Romantic Novelists' Association and the Society of Authors.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
April 17, 2017
3 stars!
I’d love to see something like Rosie’s Little Café on the Riviera as a movie or a mini-series. It reminded me of movies like Crazy, Stupid, Love and Love, Actually where multiple characters’ storylines intertwine. I felt the story had potential but just wasn’t fully discovered.
The book is about three English women in South France going through different changes in their lives. First, we have Rosie Hewett who left life as a chef in a cruise to open her cafe by the riviera. She’s invested everything in Café Fleur—money and time—and has to make sure the business becomes a success. She has no time for Charlie the persistent ex, Sebastian the intriguing hotel owner/Michelin starred chef/competition across the street, and Terry, the estranged father she hasn’t seen in so long, but alas, they were there to make things more difficult/interesting for her.
Second, we have Georgina “GeeGee” George, a commission-based estate agent trying to make ends meet. Now she has to figure out if she should continue on with this life or make use of opportunities to start anew.
Third, we have Erica and her daughter Cammie trying to move on from life after her husband’s death. She has her business, “Cupboard Under the Stairs” and Pascal’s insurance money, so financially they’re secured. But she has decisions to make that might affect her and her daughter’s lives, and a life without her husband to live.
The subplots, especially those involving Rosie, were easily resolved. It would have been more enjoyable if the author introduced one conflict per person instead of the several for Rosie. The other resolutions felt like a cop out. I also think the intrigue about James, one of Rosie’s staff and Charlie’s step-brothers, was forgotten or set aside.
It was an okay read. I enjoyed getting to know the ladies and the other people in this little world. It took me a while to get into it, but when the story picked up, I still enjoyed it. However, I think the storylines were jammed into a short book. This would have been better if the book was longer to give space to all the plotlines introduced or it would have been better to focus on one woman’s story, then maybe write another one for the others.
Still, I enjoyed the story and could picture everything happening. Rosie’s Little Cafe on the Riviera is a light story told in the three women’s perspectives. There’s little to no angst and lots of delicious food and beautiful sights. This would be a lovely beach.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
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I’d love to see something like Rosie’s Little Café on the Riviera as a movie or a mini-series. It reminded me of movies like Crazy, Stupid, Love and Love, Actually where multiple characters’ storylines intertwine. I felt the story had potential but just wasn’t fully discovered.
The book is about three English women in South France going through different changes in their lives. First, we have Rosie Hewett who left life as a chef in a cruise to open her cafe by the riviera. She’s invested everything in Café Fleur—money and time—and has to make sure the business becomes a success. She has no time for Charlie the persistent ex, Sebastian the intriguing hotel owner/Michelin starred chef/competition across the street, and Terry, the estranged father she hasn’t seen in so long, but alas, they were there to make things more difficult/interesting for her.
Second, we have Georgina “GeeGee” George, a commission-based estate agent trying to make ends meet. Now she has to figure out if she should continue on with this life or make use of opportunities to start anew.
Third, we have Erica and her daughter Cammie trying to move on from life after her husband’s death. She has her business, “Cupboard Under the Stairs” and Pascal’s insurance money, so financially they’re secured. But she has decisions to make that might affect her and her daughter’s lives, and a life without her husband to live.
The subplots, especially those involving Rosie, were easily resolved. It would have been more enjoyable if the author introduced one conflict per person instead of the several for Rosie. The other resolutions felt like a cop out. I also think the intrigue about James, one of Rosie’s staff and Charlie’s step-brothers, was forgotten or set aside.
It was an okay read. I enjoyed getting to know the ladies and the other people in this little world. It took me a while to get into it, but when the story picked up, I still enjoyed it. However, I think the storylines were jammed into a short book. This would have been better if the book was longer to give space to all the plotlines introduced or it would have been better to focus on one woman’s story, then maybe write another one for the others.
Still, I enjoyed the story and could picture everything happening. Rosie’s Little Cafe on the Riviera is a light story told in the three women’s perspectives. There’s little to no angst and lots of delicious food and beautiful sights. This would be a lovely beach.
*ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
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February 16, 2017
Rosie's Little Cafe on the Riviera is pure escapism. I loved it. I felt like I was there in the south of France, watching the Mediterranean sea glistening and gently lapping against the beach, while eating something delicious and naughty from the local patisserie.
The story is centred around Rosie, who has saved up enough money from working as a cook on a luxury yacht, to buy her own cafe overlooking the beach in Antibes on the French Riviera. She gets to meet and know some locals; Erica, mother to a little girl and who owns a gift shop "The Cupboard Under the Stairs" selling eclectic items, and GeeGee who works as a real estate agent; both of whom have their own challenges to face. The owner of the newly refurbished hotel that is due to open next door to her cafe is initially a bit of an enigma. Then Rosie's ex boyfriend from college, Charlie, who is the new owner of the yacht she used to work on, has discovered she has bought the cafe and seems determined to work his way back into her life and affections. However, Rosie can't forgive him for what happened years before and tries her best to discourage his attentions.
All Rosie wants to do is focus on her cafe and making it a success, but she worries about whether the French will take to a "les rosbifs" cafe, the spark between her and Seb and her mothers new boyfriend. There's also the ex back on the scene who seems determined he won't fail in winning her back. To complicate matters further, a man from her childhood appears along with a young woman, who is insistent on talking to Rosie. When the only relationship she wants for the foreseeable future is with the cafe...
When I'm back living in the U.K again, I can imagine re-reading this in the depths of winter to escape to the warmth. As it's currently summer in Australia, it's a perfect summer read too! You are instantly transported to the Côte d'Azur and the book makes you want to immediately book a holiday there. It really is a lovely book.
The vivid descriptions of food and smells evoke wonderful imagery. It's like you've fallen into the pages and ended up in a nice part of the med. Although it's a lovely and light read, it's clear the author has spent a lot of time in the region - or done a lot of great research and spent a lot of long holidays! - where the book is set due to the full and descriptive writing. So if you are longing for a holiday somewhere warm and with delectable food, but can't get away from work etc, pick this book up instead for an instant rejuvenation. You really do feel like you have escaped to the south of France, even if just for a short time!
I'm personally hoping there may be a sequel in the pipeline, as there are still many stories to be told, and it would be fun to see where all the characters are and what other surprises life may have thrown their way.
Thanks so much to NetGalley, HarperCollins and the author, for the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest and unbiased review.
The story is centred around Rosie, who has saved up enough money from working as a cook on a luxury yacht, to buy her own cafe overlooking the beach in Antibes on the French Riviera. She gets to meet and know some locals; Erica, mother to a little girl and who owns a gift shop "The Cupboard Under the Stairs" selling eclectic items, and GeeGee who works as a real estate agent; both of whom have their own challenges to face. The owner of the newly refurbished hotel that is due to open next door to her cafe is initially a bit of an enigma. Then Rosie's ex boyfriend from college, Charlie, who is the new owner of the yacht she used to work on, has discovered she has bought the cafe and seems determined to work his way back into her life and affections. However, Rosie can't forgive him for what happened years before and tries her best to discourage his attentions.
All Rosie wants to do is focus on her cafe and making it a success, but she worries about whether the French will take to a "les rosbifs" cafe, the spark between her and Seb and her mothers new boyfriend. There's also the ex back on the scene who seems determined he won't fail in winning her back. To complicate matters further, a man from her childhood appears along with a young woman, who is insistent on talking to Rosie. When the only relationship she wants for the foreseeable future is with the cafe...
When I'm back living in the U.K again, I can imagine re-reading this in the depths of winter to escape to the warmth. As it's currently summer in Australia, it's a perfect summer read too! You are instantly transported to the Côte d'Azur and the book makes you want to immediately book a holiday there. It really is a lovely book.
The vivid descriptions of food and smells evoke wonderful imagery. It's like you've fallen into the pages and ended up in a nice part of the med. Although it's a lovely and light read, it's clear the author has spent a lot of time in the region - or done a lot of great research and spent a lot of long holidays! - where the book is set due to the full and descriptive writing. So if you are longing for a holiday somewhere warm and with delectable food, but can't get away from work etc, pick this book up instead for an instant rejuvenation. You really do feel like you have escaped to the south of France, even if just for a short time!
I'm personally hoping there may be a sequel in the pipeline, as there are still many stories to be told, and it would be fun to see where all the characters are and what other surprises life may have thrown their way.
Thanks so much to NetGalley, HarperCollins and the author, for the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest and unbiased review.
November 5, 2017
‘Rosie’s Little Cafe on the Riviera’ is a well written story about three single English women who had settled on the French Riviera: Rosie, whose dream of opening a little French cafe finally came true; GeeGee who was in desperate financial straits; and Erica, whose beloved husband died in a car crash. But if life isn’t easy, they will embrace challenges and overcome difficulties. The charming atmosphere of the Cote d’Azur, the main characters’ determination and perseverance (with the help of their relatives), and love that lurks behind every corner will combine and ultimately help them to triumph over adversity.
A beautiful story, indeed! What I liked the most, however, is that ‘Rosie’s Little Cafe on the Riviera’ describes the three main characters’ daily lives, their hopes and their fears, in a highly sensitive and realistic manner. And of course, there’s the serenity of the French Riviera…
A beautiful story, indeed! What I liked the most, however, is that ‘Rosie’s Little Cafe on the Riviera’ describes the three main characters’ daily lives, their hopes and their fears, in a highly sensitive and realistic manner. And of course, there’s the serenity of the French Riviera…
January 27, 2021
This was the perfect book to read on a cold, grey winter’s day in January! It wasn’t a long book to read and the chapters were very short so I got through it very quickly. The story was lovely and it really took you away from the problems going on around us. I recommend this. Very sweet read.
March 20, 2017
On the day of her 30th birthday Rosie realises that her dream of being married and having a family by the age of 30 has not been accomplished, though her second dream of owning her own cafe is still within reach.
Five years later, after saving enough money Rosie takes ownership of her very own cafe, ‘Cafe Fleur’ right on the beach front in the south of France.
But with a hotel with a two time Michelin star chef next door will her food be enough to compete?
Rosie’s Cafe on the Riviera is a pure chick-lit novel. Told from various perspectives, including, Rosie, Gee Gee the local estate agent and Erica, who is the owner of ‘The Cupboard Under the Stairs’ shop. These three women all have various problems in their lives which they are trying to deal with as best they can.
The book brings together such wonderful, likeable characters, and I loved that they each had their own unique story to share, and how there were there for one another in times of need. We also have the hottest male of the story, Seb, who has a few surprises up his sleeve.
Although I really did like the story and was avidly engrossed there were a couple of little niggles, such as Rosie forever telling us that she didn’t want a relationship, once, possibly twice is enough. There was also the fact that this book is set in France, yet all the characters are English.
If you like chick-lit novels, then I can guarantee you will love this book. I mean with its beautiful sunny location, characters that you get to know inside and out, and were a pleasure to meet, plus a wonderful story line, what’s not to like!
Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
Five years later, after saving enough money Rosie takes ownership of her very own cafe, ‘Cafe Fleur’ right on the beach front in the south of France.
But with a hotel with a two time Michelin star chef next door will her food be enough to compete?
Rosie’s Cafe on the Riviera is a pure chick-lit novel. Told from various perspectives, including, Rosie, Gee Gee the local estate agent and Erica, who is the owner of ‘The Cupboard Under the Stairs’ shop. These three women all have various problems in their lives which they are trying to deal with as best they can.
The book brings together such wonderful, likeable characters, and I loved that they each had their own unique story to share, and how there were there for one another in times of need. We also have the hottest male of the story, Seb, who has a few surprises up his sleeve.
Although I really did like the story and was avidly engrossed there were a couple of little niggles, such as Rosie forever telling us that she didn’t want a relationship, once, possibly twice is enough. There was also the fact that this book is set in France, yet all the characters are English.
If you like chick-lit novels, then I can guarantee you will love this book. I mean with its beautiful sunny location, characters that you get to know inside and out, and were a pleasure to meet, plus a wonderful story line, what’s not to like!
Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
February 21, 2017
Thank you to Netgalley, Harper Collins uk and Jennifer Bohnet for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance reader copy of this book.
You can find my review on both Goodreads and Amazon. On goodreads.com/karenwhittard and on Amazon under k.e.whittard from publication date.
Another perfect romcom of a book. Get ready to be transported away to the picturesque setting of the French Reviera and Rosie's beautiful little cafe. This book is simply charming. With wonderful characters, mouth watering food, Beautiful scenery and full of happiness.
Rosie has always dreamed of opening a little cafe of the French reviera. All her dreams are finally coming true. Haven given up on love in search of the perfect recipes and devoting her time to her cafe. But has love given up on Rosie?
But when Sebastian Groc sets up a rival company. Only a stones throw away from her. Rosie's little cafe suddenly has competition. Rosie will not give up without a fight and as you can imagine lots of run ins and awkward situations ensue.
This little books is wonderful and has certainly injected some much needed sunshine into my day. Perfect for summer holidays or just to chase away the winter blues. This book is a great one sitting read. Wonderful feel good book that will take you away to the south of France. Perfect for fans of chicklit and romance. A wonderful feel good read.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance reader copy of this book.
You can find my review on both Goodreads and Amazon. On goodreads.com/karenwhittard and on Amazon under k.e.whittard from publication date.
Another perfect romcom of a book. Get ready to be transported away to the picturesque setting of the French Reviera and Rosie's beautiful little cafe. This book is simply charming. With wonderful characters, mouth watering food, Beautiful scenery and full of happiness.
Rosie has always dreamed of opening a little cafe of the French reviera. All her dreams are finally coming true. Haven given up on love in search of the perfect recipes and devoting her time to her cafe. But has love given up on Rosie?
But when Sebastian Groc sets up a rival company. Only a stones throw away from her. Rosie's little cafe suddenly has competition. Rosie will not give up without a fight and as you can imagine lots of run ins and awkward situations ensue.
This little books is wonderful and has certainly injected some much needed sunshine into my day. Perfect for summer holidays or just to chase away the winter blues. This book is a great one sitting read. Wonderful feel good book that will take you away to the south of France. Perfect for fans of chicklit and romance. A wonderful feel good read.
September 19, 2024
3.75 ⭐️ rounded up to 4⭐️
When I started reading this story, it felt like it was part of a series as the main character has already begun her adventure of opening her café on the Riviera. It appears this is a stand-alone novel. I also thought this story was going to be an enemies to lovers trope with Rosie facing some heavy-duty competition from Sebastian, but that was never the case. I definitely felt that the back cover blurb was misleading, but thankfully it did not take away from the story.
I liked watching the friendship between Rosie and Sebastian begin to blossom into something more. I was surprised to discover that there were no bedroom scenes between these pages. It was kind of refreshing to see a couple discover their feelings for one another over time instead of jumping into bed. Don’t get me wrong, I do enjoy spice in my stories, but something sweet once in a while is a nice change.
The supporting characters and their backstories add to the charm of this book and I would be highly negligent if I don’t mention the best character of all, the locale of this story, the French Riviera. The author does a fantastic job of illustrating this region so beautifully, the reader can easily transport themselves there and find themselves sitting at Rosie’s café enjoying an iced coffee while people watching.
This story was a fun read. The characters were easy to relate to and the plot flowed seamlessly. There were some moments in the story that got me misty eyed as well as laughing out loud. This was my first book by this author and I look forward to discovering more of her work.
My Final Verdict: Readers who enjoy stories with interesting characters and situations that make you laugh and cry will enjoy this book. I recommend this story to fans of contemporary romance. Take this book to your nearest café and enjoy an iced coffee and croissant while reading, be it on the Riviera or somewhere closer to your neighborhood.
Thank you to the publisher, Harper Collins UK / HQ Digital, who provided an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
When I started reading this story, it felt like it was part of a series as the main character has already begun her adventure of opening her café on the Riviera. It appears this is a stand-alone novel. I also thought this story was going to be an enemies to lovers trope with Rosie facing some heavy-duty competition from Sebastian, but that was never the case. I definitely felt that the back cover blurb was misleading, but thankfully it did not take away from the story.
I liked watching the friendship between Rosie and Sebastian begin to blossom into something more. I was surprised to discover that there were no bedroom scenes between these pages. It was kind of refreshing to see a couple discover their feelings for one another over time instead of jumping into bed. Don’t get me wrong, I do enjoy spice in my stories, but something sweet once in a while is a nice change.
The supporting characters and their backstories add to the charm of this book and I would be highly negligent if I don’t mention the best character of all, the locale of this story, the French Riviera. The author does a fantastic job of illustrating this region so beautifully, the reader can easily transport themselves there and find themselves sitting at Rosie’s café enjoying an iced coffee while people watching.
This story was a fun read. The characters were easy to relate to and the plot flowed seamlessly. There were some moments in the story that got me misty eyed as well as laughing out loud. This was my first book by this author and I look forward to discovering more of her work.
My Final Verdict: Readers who enjoy stories with interesting characters and situations that make you laugh and cry will enjoy this book. I recommend this story to fans of contemporary romance. Take this book to your nearest café and enjoy an iced coffee and croissant while reading, be it on the Riviera or somewhere closer to your neighborhood.
Thank you to the publisher, Harper Collins UK / HQ Digital, who provided an advance reader copy via NetGalley.
April 25, 2017
Wonderful summery story set on the French Riviera. This was a delight to read, and I was completely caught up with Rosie and her new cafe on the coast. I loved seeing whether she was going to develop a big rivalry with Sebastian Groc, the Michelin starred chef who has taken over the hotel next door to the cafe, or whether since he is so good looking, start up a relationship with Rosie.
It's not just Rosie whose life though is changing this summer, we are also introduced to Erica with daughter Cammie. Erica was widowed last year and she and Cammie are still just coming to terms with it and thinking about perhaps moving on with their lives. I loved seeing how their story developed over time, especially their relationship with Erica's mother in law.
And then there is Gee-Gee who is one of the cafe's best customers, but equally seems to be having no luck in her work or personal lives. She isn't the sort of person to take things lying down and I really enjoyed some of her solutions to her problems, as well as her great friendship with Erica.
When a blast from Rosie's past shows up on the coast wanting to make amends, she is thrown into emotional turmoil. It was a story line that intrigued me as I'm not sure how I would have reacted in the same situation.
From fledgling friendships, to divine French cuisine, to various exes, to gorgeous French men this book really has it all, and I found it to be a very fast and easy story to follow that was really enjoyable. This is definitely the sort of book I would love to read while out soaking up some sun.
It may be wishful thinking on my behalf but I really hope there will be a sequel as I would love to know what happens next to Rosie, Gee Gee and Erica.
Thank you so much to HQ Digital and Netgalley for this copy of the book which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
It's not just Rosie whose life though is changing this summer, we are also introduced to Erica with daughter Cammie. Erica was widowed last year and she and Cammie are still just coming to terms with it and thinking about perhaps moving on with their lives. I loved seeing how their story developed over time, especially their relationship with Erica's mother in law.
And then there is Gee-Gee who is one of the cafe's best customers, but equally seems to be having no luck in her work or personal lives. She isn't the sort of person to take things lying down and I really enjoyed some of her solutions to her problems, as well as her great friendship with Erica.
When a blast from Rosie's past shows up on the coast wanting to make amends, she is thrown into emotional turmoil. It was a story line that intrigued me as I'm not sure how I would have reacted in the same situation.
From fledgling friendships, to divine French cuisine, to various exes, to gorgeous French men this book really has it all, and I found it to be a very fast and easy story to follow that was really enjoyable. This is definitely the sort of book I would love to read while out soaking up some sun.
It may be wishful thinking on my behalf but I really hope there will be a sequel as I would love to know what happens next to Rosie, Gee Gee and Erica.
Thank you so much to HQ Digital and Netgalley for this copy of the book which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
July 18, 2017
Rosie's Little Cafe on the Riviera is a delightful read that transported me to a beautiful destination and involved me in the lives of the characters so deeply that I really cared about what happened to them. This story has everything you want in a summer read: romance, conflict, family relationships, emotional revelations and uplifting moments. The descriptions of the food and wine are mouthwatering and I would love to visit Rosie's cafe to enjoy one of the delicious meals on the beach and to sip champagne as the waves lap at the shore.
The story is about love and life, about how people can let you down or lift you up, and about how one summer can change your life.
This was a beautiful read and I highly recommend it!
The story is about love and life, about how people can let you down or lift you up, and about how one summer can change your life.
This was a beautiful read and I highly recommend it!
February 6, 2019
... in which the men are all patronising and the women all spineless - an exasperating read!
March 4, 2017
This book was a true ray of sunshine, leaving you with a really heartwarming feeling. There is a hint of romance running throughout, dreams being realised and some bittersweet heart wrenching moments too. I could imagine myself in the Riviera and visiting Monaco. The characters were all so lovely- even those who may have troubled history with Rosie.
Rosie had a dream of running her own cafe after years of working on yachts for the wealthy. She's opened a little cafe right on the beach and is determined to make a huge success of it- despite not having a lot of money to update things. She is dismayed that a Michelin star chef has taken over the hotel next door and thinks it will be disastrous for her.
I loved the way that the other characters were introduced and hopefully this means we may go back to them?? GeeGee is an estate agent and that gives lots of scope for new characters to come into the area! Erika is about to settle into her new home and we must get to meet her little girls new dog! A return trip to her wonderful sounding shop would be lovely aswell.
Seb was a delightful romantic interest- he was so gorgeous and caring and I was rooting for him and Rosie to get together. I could just imagine walking along the beach with him!
This was a wonderful escape from the awful weather and I loved my trip to the French Riviera which is so beautifully depicted by Jennifer.
Rosie had a dream of running her own cafe after years of working on yachts for the wealthy. She's opened a little cafe right on the beach and is determined to make a huge success of it- despite not having a lot of money to update things. She is dismayed that a Michelin star chef has taken over the hotel next door and thinks it will be disastrous for her.
I loved the way that the other characters were introduced and hopefully this means we may go back to them?? GeeGee is an estate agent and that gives lots of scope for new characters to come into the area! Erika is about to settle into her new home and we must get to meet her little girls new dog! A return trip to her wonderful sounding shop would be lovely aswell.
Seb was a delightful romantic interest- he was so gorgeous and caring and I was rooting for him and Rosie to get together. I could just imagine walking along the beach with him!
This was a wonderful escape from the awful weather and I loved my trip to the French Riviera which is so beautifully depicted by Jennifer.
March 7, 2017
Three and a half stars.
The story is set on the French Riviera and features three women: Rosie, who is opening a beachfront cafe after spending several years as the on-board chef on a yacht; Erica, whose husband Pascal died in a car crash which traumatised their daughter Cammie, who owns a bric a brac store; and Gee Gee a local estate agent who is struggling to make ends meet after her boyfriend Jay goes off to England to find himself.
The reader gets thrust into this world immediately, for a long time I thought that this might be part of a series and that if I had read the other book(s) I would understand the background, how Pascal died, the story behind Jay leaving etc. I can't see any references to this being part of a series however, so I assume this is just immersive writing.
We spend the summer with Rosie, Erica and Gee Gee as they run their businesses and deal with families and love. This is all about driving to Monaco to go to dinner or a party, copious glasses of champagne or rose wine sitting on the beach after work. About a society where everyone seems to know everyone else. When Rosie's mother has a new boyfriend everyone seems to know him already. It doesn't rain, there are no villains everything is low angst.
I liked this but I didn't love it. There is maybe too much going on with too many people and I felt as though we were just skimming the top of every emotion and interaction. We didn't need to follow Erica and Gee Gee as well as Rosie. But it did make me smile, it was pleasant, low angst, peopled by normal-ish people doing normal, if slightly glamorous jobs
I would say this is a perfect holiday book. And yet, on a very cold January afternoon I really felt like I was in the South of France sipping a glass of wine whilst walking along the beach with a handsome guy. So, if life is getting you down, or summer seems a long way away, why not spend a few hours in the South of France at a little beachside cafe?
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for review.
The story is set on the French Riviera and features three women: Rosie, who is opening a beachfront cafe after spending several years as the on-board chef on a yacht; Erica, whose husband Pascal died in a car crash which traumatised their daughter Cammie, who owns a bric a brac store; and Gee Gee a local estate agent who is struggling to make ends meet after her boyfriend Jay goes off to England to find himself.
The reader gets thrust into this world immediately, for a long time I thought that this might be part of a series and that if I had read the other book(s) I would understand the background, how Pascal died, the story behind Jay leaving etc. I can't see any references to this being part of a series however, so I assume this is just immersive writing.
We spend the summer with Rosie, Erica and Gee Gee as they run their businesses and deal with families and love. This is all about driving to Monaco to go to dinner or a party, copious glasses of champagne or rose wine sitting on the beach after work. About a society where everyone seems to know everyone else. When Rosie's mother has a new boyfriend everyone seems to know him already. It doesn't rain, there are no villains everything is low angst.
I liked this but I didn't love it. There is maybe too much going on with too many people and I felt as though we were just skimming the top of every emotion and interaction. We didn't need to follow Erica and Gee Gee as well as Rosie. But it did make me smile, it was pleasant, low angst, peopled by normal-ish people doing normal, if slightly glamorous jobs
I would say this is a perfect holiday book. And yet, on a very cold January afternoon I really felt like I was in the South of France sipping a glass of wine whilst walking along the beach with a handsome guy. So, if life is getting you down, or summer seems a long way away, why not spend a few hours in the South of France at a little beachside cafe?
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for review.
March 15, 2017
There are so many books around with a café/restaurant/teashop at their centre – so many that the mere inclusion of one of the words in the title can be enough to put me off. But the author’s name on the cover was more than enough to draw me in. She’s always wonderful at creating a sense of place: within a few pages I knew that Rosie’s beach-side venture was a place I’d enjoy spending some time, as I settled myself into the table in the corner with Lucky-dog at my feet – you know, the one with the umbrella for some afternoon shade.
She’s also excellent at creating quite a large cast of characters, then unspooling their lives and stories, keeping the threads untangled, making you feel you know them all so well. I really liked Rosie, and the way she builds her business on a shoestring, fighting to overcome every threat, while wrestling unwelcome relationships from her previous life alongside trying some exciting new opportunities. The other main story threads really worked for me too – Sebastian and his responsibilities, Erica and her young daughter Cammie trying to move on from their grief (I’d so love to browse in Erica’s shop…), GeeGee struggling to make ends meet until she makes a big decision of her own.
The reading was easy and so enjoyable – the author has a nice, simple, flowing style that just effortlessly carries you along with the story. If I say this would be the ideal read for a sunny day on the beach, I’m not being rude – just that the setting, the story, the warmth from its pages would make it absolutely right. Another great book from an author with a perfect light touch and a real flair for telling a story. Now, did someone mention another glass of rosé…or maybe a dish of ice-cream with Chantilly cream?
She’s also excellent at creating quite a large cast of characters, then unspooling their lives and stories, keeping the threads untangled, making you feel you know them all so well. I really liked Rosie, and the way she builds her business on a shoestring, fighting to overcome every threat, while wrestling unwelcome relationships from her previous life alongside trying some exciting new opportunities. The other main story threads really worked for me too – Sebastian and his responsibilities, Erica and her young daughter Cammie trying to move on from their grief (I’d so love to browse in Erica’s shop…), GeeGee struggling to make ends meet until she makes a big decision of her own.
The reading was easy and so enjoyable – the author has a nice, simple, flowing style that just effortlessly carries you along with the story. If I say this would be the ideal read for a sunny day on the beach, I’m not being rude – just that the setting, the story, the warmth from its pages would make it absolutely right. Another great book from an author with a perfect light touch and a real flair for telling a story. Now, did someone mention another glass of rosé…or maybe a dish of ice-cream with Chantilly cream?
March 23, 2017
Firstly lets start by saying how cute is the cover! I just loved Rosie's Little Cafe on the Riviera.
The story follows Rosie who after working as a cook on a luxury yacht, has saved up enough money to to buy and start her own cafe on the French Riviera.
Open buying the cafe Rosie realises that Sebastian Groc famous Chef with 2 Michelin stars under his belt has set up a new refurbished hotel right next to her cafe. Rosie is faced with the sudden realisation that she has competition and questions if she can make a success of her little cafe.
This book is the perfect little Summer read. A lighthearted read full of fun, lovable characters.
A big thankyou to Netgalley and HQ Digital for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review which I have been more then happy to give.
The story follows Rosie who after working as a cook on a luxury yacht, has saved up enough money to to buy and start her own cafe on the French Riviera.
Open buying the cafe Rosie realises that Sebastian Groc famous Chef with 2 Michelin stars under his belt has set up a new refurbished hotel right next to her cafe. Rosie is faced with the sudden realisation that she has competition and questions if she can make a success of her little cafe.
This book is the perfect little Summer read. A lighthearted read full of fun, lovable characters.
A big thankyou to Netgalley and HQ Digital for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review which I have been more then happy to give.
June 28, 2018
Rosie will ein neues Leben in Cannes anfangen und erfüllt sich ihren Traum von einem eigenen Café. GeeGee lebt von ihrem Job als Immobilienmaklerin mehr schlecht als recht und Emma und ihre Tochter Cammie leiden immer noch unter dem Tod des Ehemanns und Vaters.
In diesem Buch begleiten wir die vier einen Sommer lang und dürfen erleben, wie sich vieles zum Besseren wendet, auch wenn es manchmal schmerzhaft ist.
Mir hat das Buch an sich gut gefallen. Die Charaktere waren liebenswert und die Beschreibungen der Landschaft in Südfrankreich farbenfroh und so gut, dass man sich die Gegend gut vorstellen konnte.
Trotzdem hat mir ein bisschen was gefehlt. Irgendwie wirkten die Geschichten um GeeGee und Emma ein wenig zu flach. Ich hätte gerne mehr über die beiden und ihre Wege erfahren.
Rosies Geschichte fand ich hingegen detailreich genug. Wir lernen ihre Familie kennen und ihre Vergangenheit. Auch das Wiederauftauchen des Vaters und seine Versuche, sich mit seiner Tochter auszusprechen fand ich gelungen.
Das sich mit ihrem Nachbarn Seb auch noch ein sympathischer Freund und Wegbegleiter einstellt ist natürlich besonders schön.
Vielleicht wäre es sinnvoller gewesen jeder der drei Frauen ein eigenes Buch zu widmen. Dann hätte man GeeGees gescheiterte Beziehung und den Tod von Emmas Mann auch ausführlicher darstellen können. Ich mochte die beiden wirklich sehr.
Alles in allem war es ein gut zu lesendes und unterhaltsames Buch. Trotz der genannten Kritikpunkte war es wirklich schön zu lesen.
Von daher von mir durchaus eine Leseempfehlung
In diesem Buch begleiten wir die vier einen Sommer lang und dürfen erleben, wie sich vieles zum Besseren wendet, auch wenn es manchmal schmerzhaft ist.
Mir hat das Buch an sich gut gefallen. Die Charaktere waren liebenswert und die Beschreibungen der Landschaft in Südfrankreich farbenfroh und so gut, dass man sich die Gegend gut vorstellen konnte.
Trotzdem hat mir ein bisschen was gefehlt. Irgendwie wirkten die Geschichten um GeeGee und Emma ein wenig zu flach. Ich hätte gerne mehr über die beiden und ihre Wege erfahren.
Rosies Geschichte fand ich hingegen detailreich genug. Wir lernen ihre Familie kennen und ihre Vergangenheit. Auch das Wiederauftauchen des Vaters und seine Versuche, sich mit seiner Tochter auszusprechen fand ich gelungen.
Das sich mit ihrem Nachbarn Seb auch noch ein sympathischer Freund und Wegbegleiter einstellt ist natürlich besonders schön.
Vielleicht wäre es sinnvoller gewesen jeder der drei Frauen ein eigenes Buch zu widmen. Dann hätte man GeeGees gescheiterte Beziehung und den Tod von Emmas Mann auch ausführlicher darstellen können. Ich mochte die beiden wirklich sehr.
Alles in allem war es ein gut zu lesendes und unterhaltsames Buch. Trotz der genannten Kritikpunkte war es wirklich schön zu lesen.
Von daher von mir durchaus eine Leseempfehlung
August 6, 2018
Das Strandcafé an der Riviera
von Jennifer Bohnet
HarperCollins Germany
Mit herzlichem Dank für die Zusammenarbeit an Netgalley und den HarperCollins Verlag.
Cover:
Sommergefühle von Urlaub, Erholung und Entspannung vermittelt mir dieses schöne Cover.
Rezension:
Wahrscheinlich ging es mir wie vielen anderen Lesern, die dieses Buch gelesen haben. Man kommt nicht unbedingt leicht rein am Anfang, denn es sind mehrere Charaktere, die jeweils ihre eigene Geschichte erzählen. Dadurch ging für mich viel von der eigentlichen Story verloren, da man sich auf mehrere konzentrieren musste und es keinen einheitlichen Handlungsstrang gab. Zum Ende hin wurde das Buch aber immer besser. Vielleicht wäre es ein supertolles Buch geworden, wenn sich die Autorin vielleicht nur auf zwei Protagonisten in der Hauptsache geschränkt hätte. Aber dies ist nur meine eigene Meinung dazu, denn der Schreibstil ist gut nur die Geschichte und die Romantik kommen mir etwas zu kurz. Vielleicht ging ich auch mit anderen Erwartungen ans Lesen.. Das Buch bekommt daher von mir 3/5 Sternen.
von Jennifer Bohnet
HarperCollins Germany
Mit herzlichem Dank für die Zusammenarbeit an Netgalley und den HarperCollins Verlag.
Cover:
Sommergefühle von Urlaub, Erholung und Entspannung vermittelt mir dieses schöne Cover.
Rezension:
Wahrscheinlich ging es mir wie vielen anderen Lesern, die dieses Buch gelesen haben. Man kommt nicht unbedingt leicht rein am Anfang, denn es sind mehrere Charaktere, die jeweils ihre eigene Geschichte erzählen. Dadurch ging für mich viel von der eigentlichen Story verloren, da man sich auf mehrere konzentrieren musste und es keinen einheitlichen Handlungsstrang gab. Zum Ende hin wurde das Buch aber immer besser. Vielleicht wäre es ein supertolles Buch geworden, wenn sich die Autorin vielleicht nur auf zwei Protagonisten in der Hauptsache geschränkt hätte. Aber dies ist nur meine eigene Meinung dazu, denn der Schreibstil ist gut nur die Geschichte und die Romantik kommen mir etwas zu kurz. Vielleicht ging ich auch mit anderen Erwartungen ans Lesen.. Das Buch bekommt daher von mir 3/5 Sternen.
June 10, 2018
"Das Strandcafé an der Riviera" hat eigentlich alles was von einer sommerliche Geschichte erwartet, aber leider hat die Umsetzung für mich nicht ganz funktioniert.
Zunächst war ich überrascht, dass nicht nur Rosie im Mittelpunkt der Geschichte steht, sondern auch GeeGee und Erica mit ihrer Tochter Clammie. Dies hat zu Beginn zu ein paar Verwirrungen geführt, denn es gab auch eine Vielzahl an namentliche genannten Nebenpersonen, die man erstmal zuordnen musste.
Dieses Buch ist ein klarer Fall von will zu viel. Es ist zu überladen mit Personen, Ereignissen und einfach allem. Es wäre vermutlich besser gewesen, wenn man jeder der Frauen ein eigenes Buch gegeben hätte, denn so springt die Geschichte zwischen den einzelnen Perspektiven hin und her, ohne dass man Zeit hat die Personen kennenzulernen und insbesondere die Entwicklung einer vernünftigen Liebesgeschichte. Denn die Romantik bleibt in diesem Buch leider komplett auf der Strecke.
Das Ende ist eine Mischung aus Kitsch und Realität, was allerdings zum Buch gepasst hat.
Zunächst war ich überrascht, dass nicht nur Rosie im Mittelpunkt der Geschichte steht, sondern auch GeeGee und Erica mit ihrer Tochter Clammie. Dies hat zu Beginn zu ein paar Verwirrungen geführt, denn es gab auch eine Vielzahl an namentliche genannten Nebenpersonen, die man erstmal zuordnen musste.
Dieses Buch ist ein klarer Fall von will zu viel. Es ist zu überladen mit Personen, Ereignissen und einfach allem. Es wäre vermutlich besser gewesen, wenn man jeder der Frauen ein eigenes Buch gegeben hätte, denn so springt die Geschichte zwischen den einzelnen Perspektiven hin und her, ohne dass man Zeit hat die Personen kennenzulernen und insbesondere die Entwicklung einer vernünftigen Liebesgeschichte. Denn die Romantik bleibt in diesem Buch leider komplett auf der Strecke.
Das Ende ist eine Mischung aus Kitsch und Realität, was allerdings zum Buch gepasst hat.
April 20, 2018
Fantastic
Wonderful heart warming story set against the Mediterranean blue seas and opulent houses family life is never as straight forward as one would wish for
Wonderful heart warming story set against the Mediterranean blue seas and opulent houses family life is never as straight forward as one would wish for
March 5, 2022
Loved loved this book!
A perfect romantic story - a few twists and turns but such a good read.
Life as you get older comes with lots of different things but you can always find the positive I there somewhere- defo recommend :)
A perfect romantic story - a few twists and turns but such a good read.
Life as you get older comes with lots of different things but you can always find the positive I there somewhere- defo recommend :)
March 16, 2017
This was my first book by this author and was excellent from start to end will read more books by the same author. Love to read a book that's based in France and its an easy read and Rosie who is chasing her dream and gives no up on love. She puts all her money into opening a cafe in France and can she make a go of it or is she set to fail. She isn't looking for love but does she find it with out looking. A strange man comes to her cafe as she wants to meet her but when she realises it's her dad who she hasn't spoken to for years can she forgive him and move forward or not. This is a must read.
June 17, 2018
I loved this book so much. I have fled through this book so quickly compared to some of my most recent reads which is a good thing because I really want to read more.
February 7, 2017
Rosie has took the plunge and followed her dream of opening a cafe in France. There is a lot of mishaps and things that seem to be going wrong for poor Rosie in her opening weeks as she trys tp get her cafe up and running.
A face from her past comes into her life, despite her best efforts to block him out, Rosie being the kind, warm hearted person she is, we see her give this person a chance and hear him out.
Rosie also finds unexpected love with the owner of the hotel next door, from their first meeting in the street we see their love blossom even though they are each others competitors in business, it is clear they are destined to be together.
In the book we are also introduced to other characters and follow their lifes too which I think is great how they all link up. Each character we meet in the book has something going on for them in their lives.
I think the whole book is so well written, the story is so warm and cosy. I just couldn't put it down - I just wanted to find out what was going to happen next. I definitely think this deserves 5 Stars!
A face from her past comes into her life, despite her best efforts to block him out, Rosie being the kind, warm hearted person she is, we see her give this person a chance and hear him out.
Rosie also finds unexpected love with the owner of the hotel next door, from their first meeting in the street we see their love blossom even though they are each others competitors in business, it is clear they are destined to be together.
In the book we are also introduced to other characters and follow their lifes too which I think is great how they all link up. Each character we meet in the book has something going on for them in their lives.
I think the whole book is so well written, the story is so warm and cosy. I just couldn't put it down - I just wanted to find out what was going to happen next. I definitely think this deserves 5 Stars!
June 4, 2018
Rezension
Buchname: Das Strandcafé an der Riviera
Autor: Jennifer Bohnet
Seiten: 336 (Print)
Verlag: Mira Taschenbuch
Sterne: 3,5
Cover:
Das Cover ist schön gestaltet worden. Der Buchtitel steht in lilanen Buchstaben im oberen Bereich. Was ich besonders hübsch finde ist, dass das Cover so hübsch und sommerlich gestaltet worden ist.. Man sieht ein einen kleinen Strandabschnitt mit Tischen und Stühlen.Auf jeden Fall total ansprechend auf den ersten Blick. Macht Lust auf mehr.
Klappentext: (aus Amazon übernommen)
Die junge Engländerin Rosie macht das Beste aus einer gescheiterten Beziehung. Sie startet in ein neues Leben und eröffnet ein Café in Südfrankreich. Doch als der gefeierte Sternekoch Sebastian mit seinem Lokal nebenan einzieht, droht ihr großer Traum zu platzen. Aber so schnell gibt Rosie nicht klein bei. Auf keinen Fall wird sie sich von Sebastians verführerisch duftenden Croissants beeindrucken lassen, geschweige denn von seinem verschmitzten Lächeln. Oder etwa doch?
Schreibstil:
Der Schreibstil der Autorin ist total flüssig, liest sich super und ist sehr leicht verständlich. Das Buch wurde aus der Sicht von Rosie und ab von zwei anderen Frauen, GeeGee und Erica geschrieben. Das Buch war von Anfang an bis zum Ende richtig schön..
Charaktere:
Die Hauptprotagonistin ist Rosie. Sie hat sich mit ihrem Strandcafé an der Riviera ihren langen Traum erfüllt.
Der Hauptprotagonist ist Sebastian. Er ist ein Sternekoch und ihm gehört das Hotel, neben dem Strandcafé von Rosie.
Ich fande beide Charaktere von Anfang an total symphatisch. Desweitern gibt es noch GeeGee die Immobilienmarklerin und Erica eine gute Freundin. Meiner Meinung nach sind alles Charakter sehr gelungen und haben einen sehr guten Platz im Buch bekommen.
Meinung:
Mir hat das Buch relativ gut gefallen. Es war eine super nette Sommergeschichte. Das Buch war einfach perfekt um am Abend auf dem Balkon oder der Terrasse ein Gläschen Wein zu trinken und es zu lesen :) Das hat mir sehr gut gefallen. Mir persönlich hat aber noch das gewisse Extra in der Geschichte gefehlt. Es war wirklich nicht schlecht. Es war ganz süß und genau richtig für leichte Unterhaltung. Die Geschichte hatte alles was man sich von einer leichten Sommerlektüre erhofft, eine Liebesgeschichte, eine tolle Story, ein bisschen Drama, Überraschungen und natürlich auch ein Happy End. Aber es gibt allerdings auch noch bessere Bücher. Man kann die Geschichte lesen, muss man aber meiner Meinung nach nicht. Deshalb vergebe ich hier 3,5 Sterne.
Buchname: Das Strandcafé an der Riviera
Autor: Jennifer Bohnet
Seiten: 336 (Print)
Verlag: Mira Taschenbuch
Sterne: 3,5
Cover:
Das Cover ist schön gestaltet worden. Der Buchtitel steht in lilanen Buchstaben im oberen Bereich. Was ich besonders hübsch finde ist, dass das Cover so hübsch und sommerlich gestaltet worden ist.. Man sieht ein einen kleinen Strandabschnitt mit Tischen und Stühlen.Auf jeden Fall total ansprechend auf den ersten Blick. Macht Lust auf mehr.
Klappentext: (aus Amazon übernommen)
Die junge Engländerin Rosie macht das Beste aus einer gescheiterten Beziehung. Sie startet in ein neues Leben und eröffnet ein Café in Südfrankreich. Doch als der gefeierte Sternekoch Sebastian mit seinem Lokal nebenan einzieht, droht ihr großer Traum zu platzen. Aber so schnell gibt Rosie nicht klein bei. Auf keinen Fall wird sie sich von Sebastians verführerisch duftenden Croissants beeindrucken lassen, geschweige denn von seinem verschmitzten Lächeln. Oder etwa doch?
Schreibstil:
Der Schreibstil der Autorin ist total flüssig, liest sich super und ist sehr leicht verständlich. Das Buch wurde aus der Sicht von Rosie und ab von zwei anderen Frauen, GeeGee und Erica geschrieben. Das Buch war von Anfang an bis zum Ende richtig schön..
Charaktere:
Die Hauptprotagonistin ist Rosie. Sie hat sich mit ihrem Strandcafé an der Riviera ihren langen Traum erfüllt.
Der Hauptprotagonist ist Sebastian. Er ist ein Sternekoch und ihm gehört das Hotel, neben dem Strandcafé von Rosie.
Ich fande beide Charaktere von Anfang an total symphatisch. Desweitern gibt es noch GeeGee die Immobilienmarklerin und Erica eine gute Freundin. Meiner Meinung nach sind alles Charakter sehr gelungen und haben einen sehr guten Platz im Buch bekommen.
Meinung:
Mir hat das Buch relativ gut gefallen. Es war eine super nette Sommergeschichte. Das Buch war einfach perfekt um am Abend auf dem Balkon oder der Terrasse ein Gläschen Wein zu trinken und es zu lesen :) Das hat mir sehr gut gefallen. Mir persönlich hat aber noch das gewisse Extra in der Geschichte gefehlt. Es war wirklich nicht schlecht. Es war ganz süß und genau richtig für leichte Unterhaltung. Die Geschichte hatte alles was man sich von einer leichten Sommerlektüre erhofft, eine Liebesgeschichte, eine tolle Story, ein bisschen Drama, Überraschungen und natürlich auch ein Happy End. Aber es gibt allerdings auch noch bessere Bücher. Man kann die Geschichte lesen, muss man aber meiner Meinung nach nicht. Deshalb vergebe ich hier 3,5 Sterne.
February 23, 2017
Jennifer Bohnet was a new author for me as I picked up Rosie's Little Café on the Riviera. Again another book featuring a café of which there seems to be so many of this year so far despite being only two months into the year. This book was a very light read and I did spend an enjoyable few hours in the company of Rosie as she battles to keep her dream of a café by the sea a reality. There were a few storylines through out the book and at times I felt it became slightly disjointed and went off track but at other points it did give me that nice warm feeling inside as the themes of friendship, forgiveness and working together came to the fore. One thing that was excellent about the book was the setting and I suppose that made me get over the fact I was reading another café book with similar themes to books I had recently read.
The French town where the café is situated really came alive on the pages and even though I have never been to France I felt I got a real sense of the country, the climate, the people and the lifestyle. The story doesn't just focus on Rosie. We also have Erica who runs the vintage shop The Cupboard Under the Stairs. She is struggling to cope bringing up her beautiful girl Cammie following the death of her beloved husband. Georgina George or Gee Gee rents a desk at an estate agents and is finding it difficult to make ends meet in the cutthroat world of selling houses on the French Riveria. Each women featured in the story is battling with something internally and makes attempts throughout to put on a brave face but there are times when we need to let go and tell the truth and accept help and advice.
Rosie had had plans to be married by 30 with a lovely family but sadly this hasn't come to pass. For the last number of years she has worked on board a luxury yacht cooking in the galley and although she enjoyed this now is the time to see her long held dream come true. She bought the run down café in the hopes she could turn it into something successful both in the day and night. She wants everything kept secret from Charlie, her ex, who works on board the yacht. I could see Rosie was an independent woman who had firm aspirations and wanted to see them fulfilled. She was a hard worker and was willing to put in the hours to make everything run smoothly and successfully in the café.
Charlie makes several reappearances throughout the book and I found him to be so frustrating and like a leech that simply wouldn't let go. I wanted Rosie to let rip and tell the truth and tell him to get out of her life but she was too nice and polite to do that. Rosie soon has Tansy and James helping her out in the café and in my mind there were under-utilised and could have done with a bit of a storyline themselves. I know the focus is on the three women but still they just seemed to there as filler ins and to get a mention every now and again.
The descriptions of all the lovely food being created in the café were mouthwatering and I found myself craving something nice to eat while reading unfortunately nothing materialised for me. Rosie was never one to relax, she was always apprehensive and on edge despite as I said being a worker she feels the pressure to give everything a good go. It doesn't help matters when Michelin chef Seb Groc rocks up to the hotel next door and reopens it with a brand new restaurant. Will it all to be too much or will Rosie start to find love when she least expected it or will business issues crop up that threaten everyone's happiness?
I realise Rosie was the main character but I liked Erica and Gee Gee more, they seemed more relaxed in a way despite having their own problems. I could sense Erica had been deeply affected by her husband's death and as Cammie was finding things difficult she too couldn't move on. It was interesting to see how her aspect of the storyline would play out as we see her struggle with what she know needs to happen compared with the reality of achieving this. Gee Gee was really there for Erica and it was lovely to see their bond deepen and how they both helped each other out in little ways that may not seem much to an outsider looking in but to each other meant so much more. I was very pleased with the resolution Erica found and enjoyed her storyline very much.
As for Gee Gee she seemed to me not fully content in the job she was in. It was like a high powered city job always battling on a day to day basis like a wheel she could never get off. The only difference being she was living in the sun and trying to have a good lifestyle. The author did build up a very good picture of a woman who wanted to have it all but professional life was proving too much and other people dominating the estate agent scene particularity someone who makes a reappearance may just prove too much for her. To be honest I found it quite strange that she would find things so difficult that she hardly had any money for food. Surely you wouldn't let things get that bad. I know she lived off commission but still I found this aspect of her storyline slightly unrealistic. On the other hand I loved how when things got exceedingly tough Gee Gee didn't just down tools and give up. She strived to find solutions and better options and all at the same time helping Rosie and Erica in any way possible. Gee Gee was kind, caring, compassionate and determined and I hoped she would the find the answers she was so desperately looking for.
Rosie's Little Café on the Riviera was a nice enough read but it didn't blow me away. The theme of starting and attempting to keep going a café has been done many times and although a lovely story I felt nothing majorly new was brought to this theme. At times it was slightly predictable and I knew fairly on what the outcome would be and the fact I identified more with what I consider the two slightly more minor characters annoyed me in a way as it's Rosie storyline I should have become totally riveted by. At times I thought things were rather rushed and brushed over and required more depth and I thought the three girls could have connected more between themselves. The three separate storylines needed gelling together just that little bit more. Overall it was a pleasant story and enjoyable to read at the time but not the best I have read so far this year and maybe not quite one I will remember come the end of
2017. But there will be people who will love every aspect of this book, I'm just disappointed I couldn't fully love as much as I had hoped to.
The French town where the café is situated really came alive on the pages and even though I have never been to France I felt I got a real sense of the country, the climate, the people and the lifestyle. The story doesn't just focus on Rosie. We also have Erica who runs the vintage shop The Cupboard Under the Stairs. She is struggling to cope bringing up her beautiful girl Cammie following the death of her beloved husband. Georgina George or Gee Gee rents a desk at an estate agents and is finding it difficult to make ends meet in the cutthroat world of selling houses on the French Riveria. Each women featured in the story is battling with something internally and makes attempts throughout to put on a brave face but there are times when we need to let go and tell the truth and accept help and advice.
Rosie had had plans to be married by 30 with a lovely family but sadly this hasn't come to pass. For the last number of years she has worked on board a luxury yacht cooking in the galley and although she enjoyed this now is the time to see her long held dream come true. She bought the run down café in the hopes she could turn it into something successful both in the day and night. She wants everything kept secret from Charlie, her ex, who works on board the yacht. I could see Rosie was an independent woman who had firm aspirations and wanted to see them fulfilled. She was a hard worker and was willing to put in the hours to make everything run smoothly and successfully in the café.
Charlie makes several reappearances throughout the book and I found him to be so frustrating and like a leech that simply wouldn't let go. I wanted Rosie to let rip and tell the truth and tell him to get out of her life but she was too nice and polite to do that. Rosie soon has Tansy and James helping her out in the café and in my mind there were under-utilised and could have done with a bit of a storyline themselves. I know the focus is on the three women but still they just seemed to there as filler ins and to get a mention every now and again.
The descriptions of all the lovely food being created in the café were mouthwatering and I found myself craving something nice to eat while reading unfortunately nothing materialised for me. Rosie was never one to relax, she was always apprehensive and on edge despite as I said being a worker she feels the pressure to give everything a good go. It doesn't help matters when Michelin chef Seb Groc rocks up to the hotel next door and reopens it with a brand new restaurant. Will it all to be too much or will Rosie start to find love when she least expected it or will business issues crop up that threaten everyone's happiness?
I realise Rosie was the main character but I liked Erica and Gee Gee more, they seemed more relaxed in a way despite having their own problems. I could sense Erica had been deeply affected by her husband's death and as Cammie was finding things difficult she too couldn't move on. It was interesting to see how her aspect of the storyline would play out as we see her struggle with what she know needs to happen compared with the reality of achieving this. Gee Gee was really there for Erica and it was lovely to see their bond deepen and how they both helped each other out in little ways that may not seem much to an outsider looking in but to each other meant so much more. I was very pleased with the resolution Erica found and enjoyed her storyline very much.
As for Gee Gee she seemed to me not fully content in the job she was in. It was like a high powered city job always battling on a day to day basis like a wheel she could never get off. The only difference being she was living in the sun and trying to have a good lifestyle. The author did build up a very good picture of a woman who wanted to have it all but professional life was proving too much and other people dominating the estate agent scene particularity someone who makes a reappearance may just prove too much for her. To be honest I found it quite strange that she would find things so difficult that she hardly had any money for food. Surely you wouldn't let things get that bad. I know she lived off commission but still I found this aspect of her storyline slightly unrealistic. On the other hand I loved how when things got exceedingly tough Gee Gee didn't just down tools and give up. She strived to find solutions and better options and all at the same time helping Rosie and Erica in any way possible. Gee Gee was kind, caring, compassionate and determined and I hoped she would the find the answers she was so desperately looking for.
Rosie's Little Café on the Riviera was a nice enough read but it didn't blow me away. The theme of starting and attempting to keep going a café has been done many times and although a lovely story I felt nothing majorly new was brought to this theme. At times it was slightly predictable and I knew fairly on what the outcome would be and the fact I identified more with what I consider the two slightly more minor characters annoyed me in a way as it's Rosie storyline I should have become totally riveted by. At times I thought things were rather rushed and brushed over and required more depth and I thought the three girls could have connected more between themselves. The three separate storylines needed gelling together just that little bit more. Overall it was a pleasant story and enjoyable to read at the time but not the best I have read so far this year and maybe not quite one I will remember come the end of
2017. But there will be people who will love every aspect of this book, I'm just disappointed I couldn't fully love as much as I had hoped to.
March 12, 2017
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
If you're needing an escape but can't quite afford a summer holiday just yet, have no fear because Jennifer Bohnet is here!
I have to admit that I was on the fence with this book to begin with, purely because it is yet another book which has a café as it's setting and I assumed it was going to 'just another cafe' book. By golly, Rosie's café served me my own words alongside a coffee, as I could not have been more wrong about Jennifer Bohnet's book.
Why?
Because, even though the café is an important part of the storyline, Rosie's life veers off from the café which means that the story wasn't completely centred around chequered table cloths and afternoon tea. Also, whilst Rosie is determined to get her café up and running (and highly popular), her personality is able to shine through and I didn't just see her as Rosie, owner of the Café on the Riviera. I saw her as Rosie.
Yes, okay, the storyline featured other businesses' trying to steal Rosie's thunder, getting her all geared up for competition, BUT, it wasn't samey like others. Jennifer Bohnet has her own distinctive way of writing and regardless of who or what she writes about, Jennifer owns her storyline and characters with such passion and poise. Admirable.
I don't want to say too much about the main characters as their lives are an important part of the storyline, however, all three 'main women' as it were, were such fun to read about. It was as though I was unwrapping their personalities every time the storyline veered back to them because of their depth and complexity. Despite that, the characters complexity didn't make the storyline too intense which my brain was very thankful for!
I must admit, Jennifer Bohnet's book caught me off guard on more than one occasion as I wasn't expecting the routes the storyline took. I loved how we were able to dabble in the sights of Monaco, mingle with people who were deemed 'richer than rich', as well as being able to relax by the sea in France. I was in awe at being able to delve into another culture and having every sight, smell and taste, described to me in such an enchanting way.
Rosie's Little Café on the Riviera is a very busy book, there is a lot going on and there are a lot of characters who are linked in one way or another to everyone local. For me though, that busyness wasn't a bad thing at all, in fact, it was exciting as there was so much to see and do and learn, I felt like I had just been given a big slice of cake. Yes, I was THAT giddy. I actually do think, believe it or not, that some things with certain characters could have been delved into further, especially as it seemed as though there was a little bit of unfinished business...
Jennifer Bohnet has written a truly enchanting tale which will either leave you absolutely starving, or have you booking a holiday to the south of France before you have even finished reading. This book was the escape I needed, even if it was for a short time, and you really cannot argue with the greatness of that, can you?
Thank you HQDigital!
If you're needing an escape but can't quite afford a summer holiday just yet, have no fear because Jennifer Bohnet is here!
I have to admit that I was on the fence with this book to begin with, purely because it is yet another book which has a café as it's setting and I assumed it was going to 'just another cafe' book. By golly, Rosie's café served me my own words alongside a coffee, as I could not have been more wrong about Jennifer Bohnet's book.
Why?
Because, even though the café is an important part of the storyline, Rosie's life veers off from the café which means that the story wasn't completely centred around chequered table cloths and afternoon tea. Also, whilst Rosie is determined to get her café up and running (and highly popular), her personality is able to shine through and I didn't just see her as Rosie, owner of the Café on the Riviera. I saw her as Rosie.
Yes, okay, the storyline featured other businesses' trying to steal Rosie's thunder, getting her all geared up for competition, BUT, it wasn't samey like others. Jennifer Bohnet has her own distinctive way of writing and regardless of who or what she writes about, Jennifer owns her storyline and characters with such passion and poise. Admirable.
I don't want to say too much about the main characters as their lives are an important part of the storyline, however, all three 'main women' as it were, were such fun to read about. It was as though I was unwrapping their personalities every time the storyline veered back to them because of their depth and complexity. Despite that, the characters complexity didn't make the storyline too intense which my brain was very thankful for!
I must admit, Jennifer Bohnet's book caught me off guard on more than one occasion as I wasn't expecting the routes the storyline took. I loved how we were able to dabble in the sights of Monaco, mingle with people who were deemed 'richer than rich', as well as being able to relax by the sea in France. I was in awe at being able to delve into another culture and having every sight, smell and taste, described to me in such an enchanting way.
Rosie's Little Café on the Riviera is a very busy book, there is a lot going on and there are a lot of characters who are linked in one way or another to everyone local. For me though, that busyness wasn't a bad thing at all, in fact, it was exciting as there was so much to see and do and learn, I felt like I had just been given a big slice of cake. Yes, I was THAT giddy. I actually do think, believe it or not, that some things with certain characters could have been delved into further, especially as it seemed as though there was a little bit of unfinished business...
Jennifer Bohnet has written a truly enchanting tale which will either leave you absolutely starving, or have you booking a holiday to the south of France before you have even finished reading. This book was the escape I needed, even if it was for a short time, and you really cannot argue with the greatness of that, can you?
Thank you HQDigital!
May 1, 2023
Rosie's Little Café on the Riviera is a fantastic romantic comedy by Jennifer Bohnet. Rosie Hewitt had a dream, and finally, setting up a little French Cafe on the Riviera came true. However, Rosie did not expect Sebastian Groc, a world-known chef, to set up his restaurant next door to her little cafe. The little cafe was Rosie's dream, so she would not give up without a fight. The readers of Rosie's Little Cafe will continue to follow Rosie Hewitt and Sebastian Groc to discover what happens.
Rosie's Little Cafe was a funny and enjoyable book to read and the first book I read by Jennifer Bohnet. I engage with this book from the start and continue to comment on this book. I love Jennifer Bohnet's portrayal of her characters and their interaction with each other. Rosie's Little Cafe is well-written and researched by Jennifer Bohnet. I like Jennifer Bohnet's description of Rosie's Little Cafe settings that complement the book's plot.
The readers of Rosie's Little Cafe will learn how to set up a small cafe. Also, the readers of Rosie's Little Cafe will learn about the consequences of restaurant access of food poisoning customers.
Rosie's Little Cafe was a funny and enjoyable book to read and the first book I read by Jennifer Bohnet. I engage with this book from the start and continue to comment on this book. I love Jennifer Bohnet's portrayal of her characters and their interaction with each other. Rosie's Little Cafe is well-written and researched by Jennifer Bohnet. I like Jennifer Bohnet's description of Rosie's Little Cafe settings that complement the book's plot.
The readers of Rosie's Little Cafe will learn how to set up a small cafe. Also, the readers of Rosie's Little Cafe will learn about the consequences of restaurant access of food poisoning customers.
March 12, 2017
Rosie has had this dream of running her own cafe and she gets the chance to make that a reality when she decides she has had enough of being a slave for someone else to earn the credit and the money and sets out on her own to revamp and relaunch Cafe Fleur on the French Riviera. However a famous chef has taken over the hotel next door and is relaunching that, it seems that Rosie's dreams are dashed before they even become a reality.
Despite Rosie being the main protagonist in this novel, as the title suggests. There are in fact other women struggling with their own dreams. Erika dreamt of love ever after with Pascal and their daughter, running her own small business to appeal to an eclectic sort of shopper. However, it seems fate had other ideas and now Erika has to make some decisions about how she is going to spend her life and how it is going to affect her daughter.
GeGe is struggling to make ends meet. As an estate agent, she never knows when the next sale is going to be and with the rent on her desk going up, she needs to break out on her own. With some part-time work offered through a friend, GeGe hits upon an idea.
If these three women did not have enough to contend with, there is the added complication of old love wanting another chance and new love being rather circumspect in their actions. Add in a mother with a toy boy and a mother in law who thinks she should have more say and you have a novel that is full of character and a story which keeps you reading. My only criticism of the novel, is that I did not know how all these English people happened to be in the Riviera, more because I am nosy and want to know how they ended up there. It does not in any way detract from the plot.
The escapism of this novel is simple in its idea. The blue sky and sea of the Riviera, the walking along the shore line as the waves gently move in and out. The warmth of the sun that lasts well into the evening as it sets creating a backdrop for anyone with a view to envy. The descriptions of the food as the cafe makes it mark as tourists and locals, sit,sip coffee, eat croque monsieur and watch the world go by,
A perfect read when on holiday or a read when you want to escape from the dull greyness and want some bright sunshine and good story.
Despite Rosie being the main protagonist in this novel, as the title suggests. There are in fact other women struggling with their own dreams. Erika dreamt of love ever after with Pascal and their daughter, running her own small business to appeal to an eclectic sort of shopper. However, it seems fate had other ideas and now Erika has to make some decisions about how she is going to spend her life and how it is going to affect her daughter.
GeGe is struggling to make ends meet. As an estate agent, she never knows when the next sale is going to be and with the rent on her desk going up, she needs to break out on her own. With some part-time work offered through a friend, GeGe hits upon an idea.
If these three women did not have enough to contend with, there is the added complication of old love wanting another chance and new love being rather circumspect in their actions. Add in a mother with a toy boy and a mother in law who thinks she should have more say and you have a novel that is full of character and a story which keeps you reading. My only criticism of the novel, is that I did not know how all these English people happened to be in the Riviera, more because I am nosy and want to know how they ended up there. It does not in any way detract from the plot.
The escapism of this novel is simple in its idea. The blue sky and sea of the Riviera, the walking along the shore line as the waves gently move in and out. The warmth of the sun that lasts well into the evening as it sets creating a backdrop for anyone with a view to envy. The descriptions of the food as the cafe makes it mark as tourists and locals, sit,sip coffee, eat croque monsieur and watch the world go by,
A perfect read when on holiday or a read when you want to escape from the dull greyness and want some bright sunshine and good story.
August 23, 2017
The cover of this book made me feel so happy and wanting our Summer to come back. I loved the story and I loved all the characters. This is my first book by Jennifer Bohnet but I am sure I will be purchasing more of hers very soon. Such a feel good story which I didn't want to end.
September 5, 2017
Lured by the promise of sunshine, romance and food on the French Riviera, I very much looked forward to reading Jennifer Bohnet's perfect summertime read. Cheering, uplifting, comforting - Rosie's Little Cafe delivers on all three. Bohnet continues with the trio theme as we follow Rosie and friends, Gee Gee and Erica, over one long hot summer when career hopes are dashed then rebuilt, family relationships veer in unexpected directions and romance receives a tentative welcome into already hectic lives. Enjoy a taste of summer, whatever the weather outside, with this charming, heartening read.
January 31, 2021
2.5 ⭐️
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