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A French Escape #1

Poppy’s Place in the Sun

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Sometimes you need to lose yourself to find your way home…

With only her trusty dogs Peanut, Treacle and Pickwick by her side, Poppy Kirkbride could be forgiven for having doubts about her move to a quiet village in rural France. But as the sun shines down on her ramshackle new home, Poppy knows she’s made the right decision. A lick of paint, and some TLC and her rustic farmhouse will be the perfect holiday retreat – Poppy’s dream come true.

Poppy is welcomed by her fellow villagers, except for brooding local vet Leo Dubois, who makes it clear Poppy isn’t welcome in his village – or his life! Leo might be gorgeous, but Poppy won’t be told what to do by an arrogant Frenchman – no matter how kind and gentle he is to her dogs!

Determined to stay, Poppy tries to understand the enigmatic Frenchman better. But as the two get closer, Poppy sees another side to Leo – a man with heartbreak of his own. Falling in love with Leo is easy, but can he ever return Poppy's love? And what would this mean for her dream life and place in the sun?

402 pages, ebook

Published April 13, 2018

263 people are currently reading
361 people want to read

About the author

Lorraine Wilson

16 books63 followers
I live in Wiltshire, England, with my husband but love to travel and have lived in four continents. From playing amidst Roman ruins in Africa as a child to riding a Sultan's racehorse in the Middle East as a teen, I've many experiences to draw on for the stories I've been writing ever since I can remember. When I'm not writing you'll find me listening to audiobooks while I sew or design handbags, usually with a rescue terrier or two curled up on my feet!

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
Profile Image for Berit☀️✨ .
2,095 reviews15.7k followers
July 1, 2018
4.5 Beau Ou Belle Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5

Fantastic book filled with the French countryside, French food, French friends, and fabulous dogs... loved spending the day with Poppy in the French sun... another delightful book that allowed me to virtually visit France....J'ai adoré😍

Poppy moves to a charming country village in France to start a new life with her boyfriend... at least that’s what she thinks until boyfriend breaks up with her over text... now Poppy is left to start her new life alone.... well not quite she has a trio of adorable puppies to keep her company.... loved Poppy she was such a wonderful character, I’d love to be friends with her and visit this charming farmhouse... loved the important part the animals played in the story... from Poppy’s three dogs along with many more, soccer playing donkeys, and of course Leo the handsome grumpy vet....

Poppy won over the villagers with her charm and made so many new wonderful quirky friends... Leo took a little more time to warm up to her, but once he did things got hot! Loved the romance between these two... it developed so sweetly... I loved how Leo slowly revealed himself to Poppy... things we’re not always easy between them and some tough decisions had to be made... did they find their HEA? You will need to read this book to find out!

Absolutely recommend to fans of fabulous characters, France, friendship, romance, and Amour💕

*** many thanks to Harper Impulse and Rachel at Rachel’s Random Resources for my copy of this book ***
Profile Image for DJ Sakata.
3,299 reviews1,781 followers
July 4, 2018
Favorite Quotes:

Pete will laugh when I tell him about this. He’s never been one for the jealous boyfriend act. Which is good, sort of, but maybe a little bit unflattering. He usually makes a joke out of it, asking whether the other man had a white stick or a guide dog.

She’s certainly the smallest dog I’ve ever seen, but with a personality so huge I don’t know where she can possibly be keeping it all.

Not only does close proximity to him does funny things to my body chemistry, but it seemingly reduces my IQ at the same time.

He seems anxious, not so much worried about treading on eggshells as stepping into a man-trap with iron teeth.

My Review:

I enjoyed this refreshingly sweet and amusing tale; it was just what I needed for a genre cleanse after reading heavier fare. It was a light and humorous read with some heart-squeezing moments and a few bursts of romantic sizzle. I adored the character of Poppy, an illustrator of children’s books, a daydreamer, and rescuer of abused and abandoned animals and people. I frequently smiled at the levity provided by the descriptions and hijinx of Poppy’s tiny canine companions as well as the antics of the nearby assortment of football playing “delinquent donkeys” and demonic goats. The storylines were easy to follow, engaging, entertaining, and lively, while the characters were endearing and alluring, with the exception of the cranky Madame Gilbert and Pete the Prick. Poppy had been devastated to be dumped by text but she came out the better for it with an upgrade to a tall, dark, and handsome Frenchman. I picked up a few additions to my Brit Vocabulary list with “being bolshie” (being deliberately combative or uncooperative) and “calling bagsy,” which would be what we Americans do when calling dibs.
3,117 reviews6 followers
June 29, 2018
Book Reviewed by Stacey on www.whisperingstories.com

Poppy Kirkbride is finally following her dream (with a little help from her recently deceased gran) and has purchased a home in a rural village in the South of France.

The home is in need of some renovations which she had hoped to complete with her boyfriend Pete. Unfortunately, Pete dumps her by text just moments after she signs on the dotted line taking ownership of the property.

Now children’s book illustrator Poppy is determined to make a new life for herself alone in France, apart from her three dogs Treacle, Pickwick, and Peanut too. Even going against her parent’s wishes.

She is happy in the village and everyone is kind and helpful, well nearly everyone. There is the matter of the local vet Leo who seems to of taken a disliking to her. What is his problem?

Poppy’s Place in the Sun is a fun, gorgeous, summery read that takes you and all your senses to a lovely little area in France. The sights, the sounds, the smells and even the tastes all come through so perfectly. If we weren’t having such gorgeous weather in the UK at the moment I’d be wishing I was there.

The book is filled with delightful characters that all have their own stories to tell. Poppy is one determined young woman. She has followed the advice given to her by her Gran to follow her dreams and decided that her job illustrating children’s books can be done anywhere in the world and where better than somewhere the sun shines brightly for most of the year.

As well as the human characters we have her perfect four-legged friends who definitely stole the show – well them and the donkeys!!

This is just a lovely, quick, easy read that hooks you in and holds you within the pages until the very end. It is most certainly a book to read if you need a pick-me-up as it is so uplifting and heart-warming.
Profile Image for Dash fan .
1,515 reviews714 followers
July 3, 2018
5☆ A Gorgeous Romance

Poppy's Place in the Sun is a heart warming story of New Beginnings, challenges, humour and romance.

When Poppy moves to France to start revamping her new home she can't wait to start living in her dream home and becoming part of the community.

The best part of this book for me is the gorgeous fur babies and there is plenty of them. If you love animals trust me you will fall in love with them all. Their feisty personalities and quirky loveable characters simply steal the story.

Ohh and I forgot to mention the sexy vet Leo. Poppy and Leo had a love hate relationship to start with, but within time the chemistry heats up between them and the romance blossoms.

Poppy’s Place in the Sun is a gorgeous feel good read, with adorable fur babies, a quirky community, a gorgeous location, passionate romance that sizzles along perfectly.Truly the perfect summer read.

Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

My Review is also on my Blog Website:-

https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2018/0...
Profile Image for Rachel Gilbey.
3,328 reviews572 followers
March 26, 2018
4.5 Stars

Pure escapist fun, perfect poolside reading. Transport yourself to Poppy's Place in the Sun in rural France, near to Carcassonne.

Poppy may be the main character but to me the absolute stars of the book are Peanut, Treacle and Pickwick, her trio of tiny dogs, 2 chihuahuas and yorkshire terrier that have the biggest personalities in the world. And they aren't the only canines that produce laughs and aww moments, there is also Maxi who lives next door with the gorgeous Will.

Maxi's introduction to the book is hilarious, and certainly memorable for Poppy who is utterly convinced he is a wolf at first! Then are are some donkeys who also provide some fun moments, and some other wildlife too to add into the mix.

This is a book for animal loves, French food lovers, Francophiles in general, romance lovers and for anyone that has ever watched A Place in the Sun and wished it was their life. For that is in part what inspired Poppy to make the move, despite knowing no one in the area.

I loved seeing how she slowly tries to become part of the community, and does her best to resist feeling anything for the sexy vet next door. As I have come though to expect from Lorraine Wilson's book by the time the sex scenes occur they are hot, steamy and incredibly realistic - I may just have wished I was Poppy, but not just for that reason!

Absolutely loved this book, it really hit the spot, and I just wish I had been reading it on holiday, and could have fully appreciated the heat on my body, while reading about how warm the climate in that part of France was.

Really enjoyable and entertaining story that I completely and utterly enjoyed.

Thank you to Netgalley and Harper Impulse for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Profile Image for Nicola Clough.
879 reviews41 followers
April 13, 2018
This was my first book by this author and will not be the last at all. I had seen so many posts about this book and I loved the cover and it didn't disappoint me at all. The book is worth far more than five starts as simply amazing. Characters are amazing and story plot is great full of romance and starting over again and showing dreams really do come true. A definite feel good factor book and didn't want it to end at all.
Poppy has always only really got on with her gran and when she passes and is left money with a message saying follow your dreams and find the perfect house in France. She buys one with her boyfriend but once she moves he texts to say he's not coming with her and she is so upset. Her mum tells her to come home as it's silly to be out there but she wants to stay as the sun is shining and she knows she can make it a perfect retreat. Poppy is made welcome by many villagers but sadly not by her neighbour Leo the local vet. He wants to buy the house back from her but she won't as she knows what she wants to do but she soon start to get close to Leo and learns he's had a hard life to. Can she find romance and be happy and is it a smooth ride or not. Can she also turn her house around and start a holiday business or not. Falling for Leo isn't straight forward and not easy to both open up but can they work through it.
Worth far more than five stars as such an amazing read didn't want it to end hope a follow on comes out.
Profile Image for Karen Barber.
3,246 reviews75 followers
April 5, 2020
When Poppy’s grandmother leaves her money she decides to buy a house in France and take herself off. She has big plans to paint and renovate the outbuildings into tourist accommodation. Unfortunately, moments after she signs with the notaire her boyfriend dumps her by text and she’s facing a rather different future to the one she had planned.
Upon arrival at her new home she meets her neighbour, vet Leo, who is not particularly welcoming. Naturally there’s more to this than meets the eye.
Unashamed feel-good romance. It was all very ‘Pollyanna’ in approach, but the descriptions of France were perfect and you’d have to be very hard-hearted not to feel slightly warmed up by this.
Profile Image for Jane Gakere.
333 reviews38 followers
November 17, 2023
3.75 while the internal dialogue was a tad repetitive this was a comfort read. I loved the scenery descriptions and the dogs..
Profile Image for Jacqueline.
375 reviews27 followers
April 14, 2018
I loved this book! Poppy came alive from the pages and I took to her immediately. Sometimes you meet a character in a book who either reminds you of yourself, or who you know you would be friends with if they were real or (in my dreams) who you feel you could have created – Poppy was all of these to me and I didn’t want the book to end.

Poppy finds herself alone in France where her plans to renovate her newly purchased house and outbuildings, with the help of her boyfriend, are in tatters as she discovers her French dream is not one that is shared by him. Not to be defeated, and despite the wishes of her parents, she begins to create a life for herself in the sun, tackle the decorating and continue her work as a children’s book illustrator.

She soon makes a few friends in the village, although not everyone is as welcoming or friendly as she hoped, and she senses that there are undercurrents of tension between some of the villagers. It was obvious to me that the author has experience of living in a French village as she describes the oddities of village life perfectly and I couldn’t help but smile and nod in agreement.

Through Poppy’s art I was able to visualize the rural landscape, the chateau next door and the antics of her dogs and the donkeys in the fields. Through her new friendship with a like-minded history buff, I learned about the history of the Languedoc area and through her emotions I could empathise with her hurt and rejection, but also felt the excitement and passion her new life gave her.

There are mysteries to be solved, from unexpected finds in the chateau to strange behavior from some of the villagers, but her dogs prove to be great listeners when she's not sure who else to turn to. The dogs played an important role and often made me laugh, but there is so much to smile about in this book, it can’t fail to cheer you up. Don't miss out on this perfect summer read.
234 reviews52 followers
July 4, 2018
I was a bit late to the bandwagon with this one, but better late than never eh! I really enjoyed this, it was romantic, lighthearted with some deep moments - and a lot friskier than I imagined it to be!

The cover is 100% what drew me in, I love the bright colours, the pretty flowers around the border, and of course the three cute dogs surrounding Poppy! I've never read a novel by Lorraine Wilson before but I wasn't disappointed and I will definitely be looking out for more by this author in the future. I love books set in France - if my blog is anything to go by - so was really excited to start this.

I really felt for Poppy throughout the novel, not with her horrible ex Pete, but with her diagnosis. She was struggling to do much in her new French home but was so happy for her once she met Joanna and she helped Poppy out with the housework and decorating. However, having said that, that was probably the part I was looking forward to most, the decorating of the French house and the gites. I love reading about all that and French cooking etc but there didn't seem to be much in this book, less than what I thought there would be anyway.

However, it still made for a great story and I really loved it. I liked Poppy and Leo's blossoming relationship, although I felt a lot of it was sexual, it was still nice to read them opening up to each other (emotionally!) and finally letting their barriers down. There were parts of the book where I was smiling, and other parts which absolutely broke my heart and had me crying! A lot of emotions... It was a nice, happy ending.

Thank you to the publisher for a chance to read this novel via Netgalley, which I have reviewed honestly.
Profile Image for Kayla.
913 reviews35 followers
July 3, 2018
4.5 stars

What a fun book to read! I got to experience living in France through this story and I am ready to move across the pond! Deep down I was pulling for Leo to come to his senses with Poppy so I am pleased with how the story unfolded. I loved all of the animals playing such fun roles. A delightful holiday read!
Profile Image for Jaclyn.
2,575 reviews5 followers
June 1, 2018
Nice, feel-good concept.
Profile Image for Ginger Harvey.
102 reviews2 followers
January 14, 2024
31/2 stars; sweet story about feeling defeated by situations yet finding a new beginning that brings change, hope and the promise of so much more….
130 reviews1 follower
July 17, 2025
Loved the dogs, donkeys and the village setting. I felt the book was a little choppy in places. It seemed that Poppy and Leo’s romance happened so quickly - one minute he wanted her house and she was upset about Pete and he next minute they were making out. I needed a light hearted book to read and this one did the trick.
723 reviews
October 20, 2020
A young woman, three small dogs and a mammoth move to the French countryside = a great concept (particularly because I love dogs) but a weird mix of erotic fiction and twee. I also struggled with the terrible editing. 3 stars and that's being generous because of the dogs!! ⭐⭐⭐
Profile Image for Julie.
2,654 reviews43 followers
July 2, 2018
As sparkling and refreshing as the finest champagne, fans of effervescent, upbeat and feel-good romance and women’s fiction are going to love Lorraine Wilson’s latest dazzler, Poppy’s Place in the Sun! Set in a beautiful French village with a wonderful heroine, a gorgeous French hero, three gorgeous dogs who get up to all sorts of mischief and lots of charm, heart and romance, switch your phone off, put your feet up and indulge in this terrific read!

Poppy Kirkbride has finally managed to make her dream of moving to rural France and restoring a ramshackle farmhouse to its former glory into a reality and she couldn’t be happier. With her three adorable dogs for company, Peanut, Treacle and Pickwick by her side, Poppy knows that despite what all the doubters had said this was the right decision for her. Living in her dream house in a picturesque village where her neighbours have welcomed her with open arms, Poppy thinks that she simply couldn’t be happier. But there is a fly in the ointment in the shape of brooding vet Leo Dubois who makes it perfectly clear that she is not welcome in the village. Leo might be as gentle as a lamb with her dogs, but he is an absolute beast to her!

The arrogant Frenchman does not have time for the English upstart who has moved to this quiet village and is determined on turning the entire place upside down. Leo has had enough upheaval in his life and he certainly does not want any more trouble or commotion. He is determined to keep Poppy at arm’s length and to ignore her and get on with his life as best he can – but that is easier said than done! Despite the fact that he finds Poppy infuriating and annoying, he simply cannot stop himself from thinking about her…or from wanting to kiss her! Leo’s heart is firmly under lock and key, but is Poppy the one woman who can smash through the walls he had built around himself and encourage him to take a leap of faith and a chance on love?

Is a happy ending possible for Poppy and Leo? Will they manage to conquer their demons and find the courage to grasp this final chance of happiness? Or will they always be haunted by the past?

Poppy’s Place in the Sun is a fabulous read that cannot fail to put a great big smile on your face. Funny, heartwarming, tender and simply adorable, Poppy’s Place in the Sun is a terrific tale about taking chances, new beginnings, fresh starts, redemption and healing that will touch your heart and tickle your funny bone.

Lorraine Wilson is a terrific writer who can juggle pathos and humour with ease and flair. You will simply adore Poppy and fall madly in love with the brooding and enigmatic Leo.

A gorgeous romantic comedy that I loved, Poppy’s Place in the Sun is a magical read that makes for perfect summer reading! Don’t miss it!
Profile Image for Kaisha (The Writing Garnet).
655 reviews184 followers
July 4, 2018
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com

If you're after a bit of girl power, look no further as Lorraine Wilson has upped the ante in that department, that's for sure!!

I adored this book pretty much from the beginning, as the author seemed to connect with her readers on an emotional basis when we first meet Poppy. Unfortunately for Poppy, luck wasn't on her side and everything she thought she knew was taken away from her in the blink of an eye. Any plans she had made had to be rearranged, putting her newfound life in a spin before it's even begun. It was from that moment where I knew that Poppy was going to be an incredibly special character. Thankfully Lorraine Wilson didn't allow my opinion to falter throughout the story.

Due to the rough start Poppy had in her new life, she was determined not to let anyone get in the way of her future happiness, especially a charming vet! I say charming, Poppy may say arrogant and I'll agree, because at first he was the type of person I would walk away from. Yet there was something about him which made me feel as though he was being led by a personal barrier. What that may be, however, I had no idea. 

'Poppy's Place in the Sun' is such a feel-good, smiley read which left me wanting more. Not only that, this book contains dogs and oh my goodness, they are a HOOT! I couldn't stop laughing at their antics and, whilst Poppy and Leo were very endearing characters, I couldn't help but be bowled over by the personalities of the fantastically named pooches.

Despite the vibe of the book being quite romantic, the author doesn't shove it down your throat. Funnily enough, even though I enjoy reading romance novels, I am the least romantic person ever so I did appreciate the romance element being a bit rugged. For me, it added depth to the storyline as I was excited by what may or may not happen, without things being evident from the onset.

I won't be forgetting 'Poppy's Place in the Sun' anytime soon as it is such a wonderful read. Lorraine Wilson is an incredible storyteller, creating stories which hug you from the inside out and warm your heart like a coal fire on a winter's day. A truly enchanting and feel-good novel, I absolutely it!
Profile Image for Christie72 (Devilishly Delicious Book Reviews).
1,450 reviews32 followers
June 30, 2018
~4.5 STARS~

What an enjoyable escape Poppy’s Place in the Sun was for me! I knew when I read the synopsis, I was going to love the book!

Poppy has decided to move from England to a quiet, rural village in the south of France. She has bought her new home and is quite looking forward to her boyfriend, Pete, joining her. Imagine her shock and surprise when he breaks it off with her...and not even in person. I was pretty shocked myself! I couldn’t help wanting to flog him myself on her behalf. However, she refuses to give up her dream of moving, so she forges ahead!

Many people consider Poppy a daydreamer, and she is. But, she is also determined and strong, doing what it takes to reach those dreams. She has bought a home that has no working kitchen, and the plumbing and electricity needs updating. Poppy certainly won’t let that stop her! The girl has some determination!!!!

Poppy is welcomed by the people in the village, and she seems to be thriving. Only one person isn’t so happy she has come to town, local vet, Leo. He loves her three dogs, but he appears to not be overly fond of her. The more time he spends with her, he begins to show her a whole other side to him. But, then who couldn’t resist Poppy’s sunny demeanor and charm? He has his reasons for not trusting her, and I kept hoping he would let his defenses down, giving her a chance and himself a chance for a HEA.

I really loved everything about the book...the storyline, the characters, the romance, and of course, the beautiful south of France. I want to go there now! It was the theme of the book that resonated with me the most. It’s about casting your fears aside and daring to grasp your dreams and make them a reality. This was perfectly illustrated through Leo and Poppy. When you add in how well-written the book was with inspiring quotes with each chapter and some precious pups, and you have yourself one gem of a book!!!!
Profile Image for Jane Hunt.
Author 3 books114 followers
April 16, 2018
Poppy is a likeable, independent character who makes her dreams reality when she moves to France. Things don't go to plan, and she finds herself alone in a French village she knows little about, in a property that requires renovation and with a neighbour who makes no secret of the fact he wants her gone. Not the most auspicious of starts but Poppy is determined to succeed and sharing her journey with its ups and downs is a pleasurable read.

Well researched and with a precise local knowledge you learn about village life in France and its history in entertaining conversational bites, the detail is there but cleverly interwoven into the story without inhibiting the pace or the character development.

The book's stars are the animals, the loveable dogs and quirky donkeys, they have individual personalities which bring them to life, and they provide many of the story's comic and tender moments.

Another favourite character is Joanna who Poppy helps even though she is running from something. We learn Joanna's secrets, but she is worthy of her own story and happy ever after too.

Romance is a major theme, and Leo and Poppy have a tempestuous relationship, which is often passionate with realistic, sensual love scenes that underpin the couples emotional development. The ending is believable and happy and makes a satisfying conclusion.

I received a copy of this book from Harper Impulse via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Alison.
878 reviews68 followers
June 30, 2018
Oh Lorraine you have done it again, just as I think I’m not in the mood for another flirty rom-com along you come and prove me wrong! I have always found reading books by this author has left me with a sense of feeling good about the world, whether it be the Chalet series or deep mid-winter in the snow the settings don’t seem to matter because there is always a quota of great characters and usually a few animals.

The animals did themselves proud this time in the cuteness factor, Poppy may have shown up in the community without knowing anyone but the doggies soon melted the ice. The reader is always guaranteed an idyllic setting, fabulous food, a hunk who isn’t looking for love or at least he doesn’t know it yet! This time we are in France with all it’s little idiosyncrasies that with the help of the author make us all want to move there and become members of the community.

Poppy’s Place in the Sun has absolutely excelled itself as the ideal beach book. What more could I want, hot sunshine, a book I can lose myself in and for a short while a dream that life is perfect. I really enjoyed getting to know all the characters and found Poppy quite endearing. If I’m asked for a recommendation of what book to read this summer then Poppy’s Place in the Sun has to be up there for all-round enjoyment.

My thanks to the author, publisher, netgalley and Rachel from Random Resources for my copy and inviting me onto the tour. I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Profile Image for Sharon.
2,043 reviews
July 2, 2018
Poppy Kirkbride is moving to Saint-Quentin-sur-Aude, a small village in the Languedoc region in the South of France.  She’s taking along her faithful dogs – Peanut, Treacle and Pickwick, and also her boyfriend, Pete.  Well, Pete was coming until he ceremoniously dumps her by text on the day she gets the keys!  Despite the house needing a lot of work (which Pete was supposed to be doing), Poppy knows she’s made the right decision.  All of the local villagers welcome her with open arms, apart from her neighbour and local vet Leo Dubois, who has made it perfectly clear that Poppy isn’t welcome in the village…

This book has the absolute perfect setting!  I’m not a big fan of books set abroad, but I am a sucker for picturesque villages and blue skies, no matter where in the world they are.  Thankfully, this book has both of them and more!  The village and location sounds divine and who could blame Poppy for wanting to settle down here.

I loved Poppy’s character and really felt for her at the beginning when Pete dumps her by text.  You just couldn’t imagine what she must have felt, alone in a strange country with only her dogs for company.  She is definitely a lovely character and fair play to her when she decides to stay in the village on her own!  Her little dogs, Peanut, Treacle and Pickwick certainly deserve a mention of their own as they sound absolutely adorable, although I did worry for them when Maxi, the wolf dog from next door came knocking!

As the story moves you, you get a hint of there being a tragedy centred around Poppy’s house, which is why her neighbour Leo isn’t keen on having Poppy living there.  Leo is definitely the dark, brooding type and whilst I didn’t like him initially he certainly grew on me as the book continued.  As in most books of this genre, the main character usually ends up lucky in love, so I was keeping everything crossed that Poppy found her happy-ever-after!

This was a lovely story full of love and laughter.  It also had its fair share of farmyard animals and pets for all you animal lovers out there.  It is, beyond any doubt, an absolutely ideal book for lounging around on a hot summer’s day, imagining that you are exactly where Poppy is!
Profile Image for Misfits farm.
2,090 reviews86 followers
June 9, 2018
Poppy’s place in the Sun- Lorraine Wilson-
Poppy is moving to her dream home in France. Ok, it will be a dream once it has been done up, but it’s in a beautiful place and with a little TLC she can begin the business of welcoming guests. Her boyfriend Pete is also an investor and will be sorting the gites out on site. Local vet Leo is easy on the eye but also has a grudge against Poppy for some unknown reason. His parents, whom she bought the house from however are a delight and welcome her with open arms. When things from the start don’t go to plan, Poppy has her work cut out and her doubts about herself have to be put t one side, at least for now until things change. Although this is a lighthearted read, there are some wonderful life quotes at the beginning of each chapter and a message within the pages themselves. For anyone who has felt their confidence drop for any reason, or doubted themselves - which probably covers most of us- this is a tonic and a read to lift you up. A highly enjoyable read.
For more reviews please see my blog http://nickibookblog.blogspot.co.uk/
or follow me on Twitter @nickijmurphy1
Profile Image for Pam Robertson.
1,443 reviews9 followers
June 29, 2018
You can't help liking Poppy from the start and feel for her when her plans for a new life with her boyfriend hit a major snag- him. However, she proves that she has sticking power despite moments of self- doubt and forges ahead. Of course, you can see her new romance coming a mile off but that's OK- it's all part of the fun of the story.

I thought that the email exchanges are a very clever way of filling in background details and giving an insight into both Poppy and Leo's emotions. They move the story on without fuss. In some ways, the real stars of the show are the animals- Poppy's rescue dogs, Leo's wolf-hound and not forgetting the donkeys. They give everyone the chance to show their compassionate side and also add lots of humour to the plot.

The beautiful setting of rural France near Carcassone, adds real colour and atmosphere to the story and you see it through Poppy's eyes and appreciate the local community with all its eccentric inhabitants and friendly faces. It makes you want to visit and conjures up a perfect summers day.

In short: A fun read with a great setting and super characters.

THanks to the author for a copy of the book.
Profile Image for Carol Thomas.
Author 8 books26 followers
May 26, 2018
Beautiful countryside to escape to, and a cute cast of four-legged sidekicks.

I enjoyed the Chalet Girl series and so was excited to read Lorraine Wilson’s latest novel.

With not a hint of snow in sight, the setting was idyllic. The beautiful French countryside provided the ideal backdrop for Poppy to start to build her new life; something she tackles with admirable determination, despite the adventure not starting out as she planned. Her dogs were cute, good listeners and perfect companions.

When a moody, handsome neighbour appears, who then turns out to be a vet (and to own a dog too), you know romance is going to follow. The plot builds steadily, and while the friendship between Poppy and Leo is slow at times the reasons are revealed with a backstory that adds depth to Leo’s character.

I liked the cast of supporting characters and the way most enriched Poppy’s new life.

Lorraine Wilson always writes steamy scenes well and while this book is slower paced than her previous novels, you won’t be disappointed ;-)
Profile Image for Angela  Mellor.
958 reviews3 followers
April 15, 2018
Poppy's place in the sun was a delight to read.
Poppy is a character I instantly loved, I think that this may be down to her being completely believable, as Lorraine Wilson has done a fab job of this as at times throughout the book when Poppy had done something a little embarrassing I found myself thinking crikey I've done that!!!
The book is based in a village in France that Poppy has moved to from England for a few reasons but mainly to help her health so she can continue her drawings as she is a children's book illustrator.
There was nothing I didn't like about this book and loved how we followed Poppy on the ups and downs of her new life and as she is such a great character how the locals come to love her. The story is full of love, dogs, donkeys, vineyards, neighbours and making new friends. It was a delight to read and is a perfect summery read.
I would like to thank Netgalley and HarperCollins UK HarperImpulse for this ARC I received in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Kate Mclaughlin.
267 reviews3 followers
April 10, 2018
What a delightful escape to the French countryside.
Reviewed early thanks to an ARC from NetGalley.
Sun, castles, new friends, donkeys, goats, and puppies, what's not to love.
Something about Poppy really spoke to me, someone who is always seen as the dreamer, someone who doesn't have a "proper job". Lorraine's writing and description make her jump from the page with the troublesome trio in tow.
Leo is everything you want in a hero, moody to begin with, slightly misunderstood until you peel back the layers until you find his soft heart at his core.
The email conversations are not normally a format I like to see in books but Lorraine uses them well to bring in her secondary characters, who are funny and hold their own appeal.

I would definitely recommend Poppy's Place in the Sun to my friends and on social media and hope there is more to come from Lorraine Wilson.
Profile Image for Donna Maguire.
4,895 reviews120 followers
July 1, 2018
https://donnasbookblog.wordpress.com/...

This was a gorgeous book to read in the sun and I loved the cover - it really drew me in and I knew it was definitely a book I wanted to read - the blurb is really intriguing too and it sounded like a fab story - and I am so pleased it lived up to my expectations!!

The scene setting for this book is great and you really feel as you are in the story with the characters. It is well written, flows very well and has some brilliant characters - ones I would love to meet in real like! Poppy is a lovely character and at times I really wanted to give her a big hug! I really enjoyed the story.

4.5 stars from me rounded up to 5 for Amazon and Goodreads!
Profile Image for Mariya.
264 reviews19 followers
March 16, 2019
40% DNF
tropes:
heroine travels to another country after her relative dies - check (this one I actually really like when it's done well)
heroine gets dumped by her boyfriend by text/mail - check (if I have to guess I think at the end of the book he will appear and say he changed his mind and beg to take him back)
brooding hero with a tragic past - check
insta attraction - check

What's in the book:
Poppy thinking/talking about her dogs (word "dog" pops out 303 times in the book)
Poppy complaining about her ex... a LOT.
Poppy thinking how hot Leo is.

Also Poppy's cheeks mentioned a lot. Her cheeks "burn", "flame", "flush hot", "grow hot", "heat up" etc.

Also word "f**k" - 25 times. I don't have problems with swearing. But here this word felt very out of place.

One of the most boring books I ever read.
Very repetitive and predictable.
Profile Image for Janette.
442 reviews
June 28, 2018
I have not read any of Lorraine Wilson's previous books. I really enjoyed this lighthearted easy read. I particularly loved the quotations at the start of each chapter.

This is a story of new beginnings, friendship, love and extremely cute dogs. I really like the lead character Poppy and was rooting for her throughout the book. I found the cast of surrounding characters charming - including quirky football playing donkeys!

I love any books which feature dogs as main characters and Poppy's dogs were lovely. Set in a fantastic location - it made me want a holiday in the French countryside.

Highly recommended - ideal for a summer holiday read or for any time of year.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Emily Nolte.
116 reviews4 followers
January 10, 2024
3.5!! Super cute read, don’t know that I’d re-read. Considering reading the follow up book on Joanna in the future.



Poppy is very anxious and is a huge overthinker which news flash! - so am I, so I connected immediately with her. But she does much inner monologuing that it lost me at times. There’s a few inconsistencies in the story that had me going wait what a few times, but other than that it was super solid! Leo and Poppy have such great chemistry and it was so easy to fall for his suave character. I LOVE how this author exposes her readers to the English and French lifestyle I’ve had to look up so many phrases and words. I love when books expose me to more of the author’s culture/lifestyle! Transports you as a reader and you get to learn a lil about other countries! Win win.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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