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A Season of Surprises at the Villa des Violettes
The Love in Provence characters are celebrating a glorious spring on the Côte d’Azur. There are sweet-smelling blossoms, buds bursting into bloom, explosions of golden mimosa, dazzling sunshine, a shimmering sea … and a worrying disappearance!
A hidden past is uncovered and shocking truths are revealed. But life goes on. Kat and Philippe welcome their first B&B guests to the Villa and continue to be busy with other demands, all the while keeping hope alive as police search for their friend.
A special request from Simone and an unexpected appearance turn a planned motorcycle trip in Corsica into so much more. Springtime at the Villa des Violettes is filled with secrets and surprises.
A hidden past is uncovered and shocking truths are revealed. But life goes on. Kat and Philippe welcome their first B&B guests to the Villa and continue to be busy with other demands, all the while keeping hope alive as police search for their friend.
A special request from Simone and an unexpected appearance turn a planned motorcycle trip in Corsica into so much more. Springtime at the Villa des Violettes is filled with secrets and surprises.
- GenresFrance
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 19, 2019
196 people are currently reading
159 people want to read
About the author
Patricia Sands
23 books1,056 followersBestselling author Patricia Sands lives two hours north of Toronto, Canada, in The Blue Mountains, when she isn't somewhere else, and calls the south of France her second home. An admitted travel fanatic, she can pack a bag in a flash and be ready to go anywhere … particularly the south of France. With a focus on travel, women’s issues and aging, her stories celebrate the feminine spirit and the power of friendship.
Her award-winning 2010 debut novel, The Bridge Club, is a book-group favorite, and The Promise of Provence, which launched her three-part Love in Provence series (followed by Promises to Keep and I Promise You This), was a finalist for a 2013 USA Best Book Award and a 2014 National Indie Excellence Award, an Amazon Hot New Release in April 2013, and a 2015 nominee for a #RBRT Golden Rose award in the category of romance. Her fifth novel, Drawing Lessons, was released by Lake Union Publishing on October 1, 2017.
Lavender, Loss & Love, ~A Season of Surprises ~and The First Noel make up the the Villa de Violettes series, based on the Love in Provence characters.
The Bridge Club ~ Tenth Anniversary edition ~ was released in September 2021 and is now in Kindle Unlimited.
On August 25, 2022, her novel THE SECRETS WE HIDE will be released.
Sands also contributes to such Francophile websites as The Good Life France and Perfectly Provence and loves to visit Book Clubs either live or on ZOOM! Info on her website.
Find out more at Patricia’s Facebook Author Page, Amazon Author Page or her website. There are links to her books, social media, and a monthly newsletter that has special giveaways, photography from France, and sneak peeks at her next book. She loves hearing from readers.
Patricia has led six 10-day tours of the French Riviera and the countryside of Provence. She will be co-hosting another 'Sold Out' women's tour of Provence in September 2021 with her good friend Deborah Bine aka The Barefoot Blogger.
Find out more at Patricia’s Facebook Author Page, Amazon Author Page, Goodreads or her blog where you will find links to her books, social media, and monthly newsletter. She loves hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to email her.
Follow her on Instagram @psands.stories
Her award-winning 2010 debut novel, The Bridge Club, is a book-group favorite, and The Promise of Provence, which launched her three-part Love in Provence series (followed by Promises to Keep and I Promise You This), was a finalist for a 2013 USA Best Book Award and a 2014 National Indie Excellence Award, an Amazon Hot New Release in April 2013, and a 2015 nominee for a #RBRT Golden Rose award in the category of romance. Her fifth novel, Drawing Lessons, was released by Lake Union Publishing on October 1, 2017.
Lavender, Loss & Love, ~A Season of Surprises ~and The First Noel make up the the Villa de Violettes series, based on the Love in Provence characters.
The Bridge Club ~ Tenth Anniversary edition ~ was released in September 2021 and is now in Kindle Unlimited.
On August 25, 2022, her novel THE SECRETS WE HIDE will be released.
Sands also contributes to such Francophile websites as The Good Life France and Perfectly Provence and loves to visit Book Clubs either live or on ZOOM! Info on her website.
Find out more at Patricia’s Facebook Author Page, Amazon Author Page or her website. There are links to her books, social media, and a monthly newsletter that has special giveaways, photography from France, and sneak peeks at her next book. She loves hearing from readers.
Patricia has led six 10-day tours of the French Riviera and the countryside of Provence. She will be co-hosting another 'Sold Out' women's tour of Provence in September 2021 with her good friend Deborah Bine aka The Barefoot Blogger.
Find out more at Patricia’s Facebook Author Page, Amazon Author Page, Goodreads or her blog where you will find links to her books, social media, and monthly newsletter. She loves hearing from readers, so don’t hesitate to email her.
Follow her on Instagram @psands.stories
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July 15, 2019
A Season of Surprises at the Villa des Violettes Book 2
Patricia Sands
Amazon Digital, Jun 2019
228 pages, Kindle
Also in paperback
Women’s Lit
Purchased on Amazon
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The cover is so pretty with the soft yellow adobe color of the many houses of southern France and the weathered blue door with the wisteria vine growing over the top. So typical of Ms. Sands’ writing and photography, and very appropriate for this book. It welcomes you into the continuing story of these characters nicely.
The characters, Philippe and Kat, are from Patricia Sands’ Love in Provence series. In the first of the Villa des Violettes books, it was a Christmas almost-disaster. In this, the second book, it has been one year since Philippe and Kat were married and moved into their about-to-become a B&B. There are still some changes going on in the garden areas of the property, but for the most part, the villa is restored and up and running. Suddenly, they get the news that a young friend of theirs has disappeared and may be caught up in human trafficking. Through friends and high up connections, they involve the police at the highest levels and are assured that everything that can be done is being done. And in the midst of all this, the first guests for the B&B arrive for a week’s stay.
The pace is brisk and the tension stays high even with the calming walks and rides through the lovely countryside the author gives us to keep us grounded. It wouldn’t be a Patricia Sands novel without the lush French countryside sites, sounds, tastes, and smells. You might say it’s her trademark. That and the way her characters interact and support each other all the time. These characters run true to form as well. Through all the worry about their missing friend, all of the people involved pull together and support each other, check on each other and help each other out. Even the gardeners post notices about the missing young woman. All her friends know her dogs’ names and the fact that her cat has kittens. When the cat has kittens, Kat’s friends claim them as soon as they are ready to go to homes. They all know her family’s names and situation. This is a very close-knit group. So typical of the author’s style. So typical of what makes reading this author’s books so enjoyable. You feel part of the group!
Now, since I missed out on reading the first book, I’m going to pick it up and save it for this fall when I start looking at seasonal books. It’ll be the perfect book to start off Christmas books in September (only 3 months until Christmas!). Until then, I highly recommend this second book to any of you who have already read book one or want to read a wonderfully warm book without reading book one. It isn’t that difficult to get into it without the first book, especially if you have read any of Patricia’s previous books.
Patricia Sands
Amazon Digital, Jun 2019
228 pages, Kindle
Also in paperback
Women’s Lit
Purchased on Amazon
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
The cover is so pretty with the soft yellow adobe color of the many houses of southern France and the weathered blue door with the wisteria vine growing over the top. So typical of Ms. Sands’ writing and photography, and very appropriate for this book. It welcomes you into the continuing story of these characters nicely.
The characters, Philippe and Kat, are from Patricia Sands’ Love in Provence series. In the first of the Villa des Violettes books, it was a Christmas almost-disaster. In this, the second book, it has been one year since Philippe and Kat were married and moved into their about-to-become a B&B. There are still some changes going on in the garden areas of the property, but for the most part, the villa is restored and up and running. Suddenly, they get the news that a young friend of theirs has disappeared and may be caught up in human trafficking. Through friends and high up connections, they involve the police at the highest levels and are assured that everything that can be done is being done. And in the midst of all this, the first guests for the B&B arrive for a week’s stay.
The pace is brisk and the tension stays high even with the calming walks and rides through the lovely countryside the author gives us to keep us grounded. It wouldn’t be a Patricia Sands novel without the lush French countryside sites, sounds, tastes, and smells. You might say it’s her trademark. That and the way her characters interact and support each other all the time. These characters run true to form as well. Through all the worry about their missing friend, all of the people involved pull together and support each other, check on each other and help each other out. Even the gardeners post notices about the missing young woman. All her friends know her dogs’ names and the fact that her cat has kittens. When the cat has kittens, Kat’s friends claim them as soon as they are ready to go to homes. They all know her family’s names and situation. This is a very close-knit group. So typical of the author’s style. So typical of what makes reading this author’s books so enjoyable. You feel part of the group!
Now, since I missed out on reading the first book, I’m going to pick it up and save it for this fall when I start looking at seasonal books. It’ll be the perfect book to start off Christmas books in September (only 3 months until Christmas!). Until then, I highly recommend this second book to any of you who have already read book one or want to read a wonderfully warm book without reading book one. It isn’t that difficult to get into it without the first book, especially if you have read any of Patricia’s previous books.
June 26, 2019
Bienvenue à la Villa des Violettes! Welcome to Villa des Violettes! This is a charming and delightful read that I loved very much! I felt like I took a return "vacances" to Côte d’Azur and reconnected with friends I couldn't wait to visit! Kat and Phillipe are the perfect host and hostess to take me through the pages of this book. I love their love story!
It was very exciting to be a part of the opening of their B & B along with their first guests. All of Kat's and Phillipe's friends are involved in this exciting business venture! The characters are all so likeable and have become my friends, too. Each character adds a layer to this story that makes it a totally enjoyable read.
I felt like I was on one of Patricia Sand's tours that she hosts in France. From the "pictures" of the characters to their emotions, from the locations to the scenery, from the French celebrations to the scenic road trip and add in all the yummy and tasty foods....it's an all around experience to France. It's easily put into my mind because of her very descriptive writing. It becomes so vivid that I have felt I've actually been to France!
Ms. Sands takes on a very difficult issue with one of the characters that involves human trafficking. She did this in a way that brings attention to a serious problem but in a very sensitive way. It added an element of mystery to the book.
Oh! I can't forget the antics of the pets! I love that Coco and Rocco, Belle and her kittens are a part of bringing the book together, too. They just add a perfect touch to the "family" at Villa des Violettes.
This is a passage that Phillipe says to Kat:
"We have a way of making beautiful memories, Minou. And we will keep doing it. There's so much more to discover together."
I have beautiful memories from reading this book and I can't wait to discover more and make more memories in the next book of this series.
I want to thank Ms. Sands for the opportunity and privilege of reading this book. It's a cinq étoiles lire....five star read for me!
It was very exciting to be a part of the opening of their B & B along with their first guests. All of Kat's and Phillipe's friends are involved in this exciting business venture! The characters are all so likeable and have become my friends, too. Each character adds a layer to this story that makes it a totally enjoyable read.
I felt like I was on one of Patricia Sand's tours that she hosts in France. From the "pictures" of the characters to their emotions, from the locations to the scenery, from the French celebrations to the scenic road trip and add in all the yummy and tasty foods....it's an all around experience to France. It's easily put into my mind because of her very descriptive writing. It becomes so vivid that I have felt I've actually been to France!
Ms. Sands takes on a very difficult issue with one of the characters that involves human trafficking. She did this in a way that brings attention to a serious problem but in a very sensitive way. It added an element of mystery to the book.
Oh! I can't forget the antics of the pets! I love that Coco and Rocco, Belle and her kittens are a part of bringing the book together, too. They just add a perfect touch to the "family" at Villa des Violettes.
This is a passage that Phillipe says to Kat:
"We have a way of making beautiful memories, Minou. And we will keep doing it. There's so much more to discover together."
I have beautiful memories from reading this book and I can't wait to discover more and make more memories in the next book of this series.
I want to thank Ms. Sands for the opportunity and privilege of reading this book. It's a cinq étoiles lire....five star read for me!
June 20, 2019
I was given the opportunity to read an early copy of this gem. I have not read the Love in Provence series or the first book in this series yet. I usually do not like to read the latest in a series if I haven’t read the earlier books, but Patricia Sands does give you enough information to still make the book very enjoyable. I also felt that I should get this read and do my review in a timely manner.
In this book, Sands makes you feel that you are with the characters in the beautiful countryside of Provence. All the characters are people that you would want to have as your friends. Their world is a world you would like to have for yourself. Most of the story was pleasant, although there was a storyline about sex slavery of young girls. This was handled in a way that made it not as disturbing as it could have been.
In conclusion, I loved being in the world of this book and look forward to going back to the beginning with these characters and seeing how they got to be where they are in this book!
In this book, Sands makes you feel that you are with the characters in the beautiful countryside of Provence. All the characters are people that you would want to have as your friends. Their world is a world you would like to have for yourself. Most of the story was pleasant, although there was a storyline about sex slavery of young girls. This was handled in a way that made it not as disturbing as it could have been.
In conclusion, I loved being in the world of this book and look forward to going back to the beginning with these characters and seeing how they got to be where they are in this book!
June 21, 2019
A SEASON OF SURPRISES AT THE VILLA DES VIOLETTES by Patricia Sands is Book 2 in her delightful Villa des Violettes series. I loved Book 1, THE FIRST NOËL AT THE VILLA DES VIOLETTES and couldn’t wait to read more about Kat, Philippe and their friends and family as they celebrate Spring on the Côte d’Azur. Kat and Philippe receive their first guests at the newly-finished B & B and find themselves very busy entertaining and planning some special trips for the two of them. However, the troubling disappearance of one of their friends brings to light a hidden past and reveals some dark secrets that threaten to cloud their joy in the beauty of the season. As always, this story is brought to life by the author’s vivid descriptions of the food, scenery and characters. You can’t read one of Patricia Sands’ books without feeling like you have traveled to the South of France. I highly recommend this wonderful story of love, friendship and appreciation for the beauty that surrounds us. I’ll be looking forward to the next book as this charming series continues.
June 27, 2019
I cannot express how much I love this series and it’s characters. I feel at home & apart of this eclectic family. I have connected to Katherine since book one. Life has settled down and Katherine is going through pictures that everyone had shared from her first holiday celebration. Now her Philippe are getting ready to host their first official guest staying at Villa Des Violettes. Life is hectic, Katherine is getting ready for her next show at the gallery, plus she is excited to experience her first carnival. Delphine has gone missing & secrets of her past surprise them all. Through all the turmoil Katherine realizes everyone has a story, especially in her new found family. This story has mystery, twist and tackles a social injustice that effects us all but most importantly it also has beauty & love. Thank you so very for creating such a special series and characters. I hope there is more to come in the future.
June 20, 2019
Meeting up with Katherine and Philippe again is like unwrapping a gift! I was so excited to have them back in my life again. Their B&B is getting ready for guests, the dogs are running around, the kittens are playing, and the grounds are starting to bloom. Simone is next door baking goodies for breakfast!
Once again, I was swept away on a mini vacation as I visited the South of France and visited with some old friends that I have missed!
This story is full of the same excitement and enchantment of France that the precious “Love in Provence” Series holds. If you enjoyed that series you do not want to miss this book. If you haven’t read it yet, then begin here and you will fall in love; this I promise you!
*The first book in this Novella Series is “The First Noël at the Villa des Violettes”. This is book 2, but can be read as a stand alone.
Once again, I was swept away on a mini vacation as I visited the South of France and visited with some old friends that I have missed!
This story is full of the same excitement and enchantment of France that the precious “Love in Provence” Series holds. If you enjoyed that series you do not want to miss this book. If you haven’t read it yet, then begin here and you will fall in love; this I promise you!
*The first book in this Novella Series is “The First Noël at the Villa des Violettes”. This is book 2, but can be read as a stand alone.
June 20, 2019
A delightfully wonderful story that is the sequel to "The First Noel at the Villa des Violettes”. The setting is in France with Kat, Phillipe, their friends and their new B&B that will be opening.
Some mystery and suspense as young Delphine is missing without a word to anyone. Where could she be and is she in harms way?
The friends will come together near and far to assist with her search!
My favorite character continues to be Simone. Her wisdom, grace and charm in her ninety's is pure love and magic.
I just love the writing of Patricia Sands! Her words, descriptions of the landscapes, delicious foods and activities entice me to continue on the journey with all these people. It is a must!
I didn’t put this book down until the very last page.
I cannot wait to continue on and see what is next for these folks. Looking forward to book three!
Some mystery and suspense as young Delphine is missing without a word to anyone. Where could she be and is she in harms way?
The friends will come together near and far to assist with her search!
My favorite character continues to be Simone. Her wisdom, grace and charm in her ninety's is pure love and magic.
I just love the writing of Patricia Sands! Her words, descriptions of the landscapes, delicious foods and activities entice me to continue on the journey with all these people. It is a must!
I didn’t put this book down until the very last page.
I cannot wait to continue on and see what is next for these folks. Looking forward to book three!
August 17, 2019
A first by me by this author will not be my last ! The description and details made me feel like I was in France and I want to go back! I read this as a stand-alone but definitely can’t wait to read the first after this one! I absolutely adored these characters as they felt like friends I’ve known forever. Kat and Philippe are amazing characters I absolutely loved everything about them and all of their animals!! This book about friendship, love and never giving up on your dreams will will leave you wanting more! I read this in half a day and couldn’t put down!! I look forward to reading more from this series and anything Patricia sands has written! Enchanting!!! Loved this must read!!
Read
June 20, 2019A Season of Surprises at the Villa des Violettes is another wonderful book by Patricia Sands. She continues to bring to life all the characters I’ve come to think of as friends. It is intriguing to follow Kat and Philippe on their adventures. Sands’ descriptions of the landscape makes me feel like I’m right there! It is hard to put down, and the pages fly by! Don’t miss out on this fabulous book!
June 20, 2019
Absolutely loved this book !!!! I read both of the books in this series but they do not have to be. Kat and Philippe, ahhh I felt like I was traveling right there with them !!!!
Highly recommend this book and the first book and the Promise to Provence series is another fantastic Series that will take you on more adventures through France!!!
5 plus stars.
Highly recommend this book and the first book and the Promise to Provence series is another fantastic Series that will take you on more adventures through France!!!
5 plus stars.
June 20, 2019
Fabulous book. The sights, sounds, and even smells jump off the page into your heart. The descriptions of the Carnival and the mimosa flowers is outstanding. One can believe they are in France as they take this journey with the characters. The side stories are wonderful and engrossing. There is mystery and romance. This is a wonderful escape from a rainy Ohio.
August 14, 2019
This was the first book I have read by this author ! Love to feel like I have gone to France! Thank you for showing me how beautiful it could be over there and love the friendships that can span the years and help each other through a lot of tough times . This is book two I will be reading book one soon !
June 21, 2019
There needs to be more stars to rate this book. Kate and Phillipe are on another journey in life. Tragedy hits hard but the outcome is good. Dont want to give any spoilers but it was worth the wait. Now to wait for the next one.
July 14, 2019
“No matter what obstacle or heartbreak is put in our paths, we alone choose to be happy. No one else makes that choice for us.”
With everything surrounding Katherine and Philippe as they come close to their 1st wedding anniversary, their long held dream of Villa des Violettes as a small guest inn is about to come true! They’ve hurdled many obstacles but the time has arrived. But will they be successful?
Between their friend Delphine’s disappearance bringing a world wide horror almost to their doorstep and completing the outbuilding and the garden, Kat continues to hone her photography towards a small showing, while Philippe works the cheese shoppe and tries to surprise her whenever he can. Between the dogs, the cats and soon the chickens it truly is their dream come true!
Patricia Sands is a marvelous writer. Thanks to her, I can settle in to armchair travels to a place I’ve always wanted to go: France. This trip we get to go to Grasse- an area I’ve always wanted to go since I fell in love with Coco Chanel as a teenager- and Corsica. I had no idea outside of Napoleon what Corsica was about. I highly recommend this book and all the others she has written: gentle, sweet books that will have you dreaming of France for a long time to come! Highly Recommended 5/5
[disclaimer: I received this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it]
With everything surrounding Katherine and Philippe as they come close to their 1st wedding anniversary, their long held dream of Villa des Violettes as a small guest inn is about to come true! They’ve hurdled many obstacles but the time has arrived. But will they be successful?
Between their friend Delphine’s disappearance bringing a world wide horror almost to their doorstep and completing the outbuilding and the garden, Kat continues to hone her photography towards a small showing, while Philippe works the cheese shoppe and tries to surprise her whenever he can. Between the dogs, the cats and soon the chickens it truly is their dream come true!
Patricia Sands is a marvelous writer. Thanks to her, I can settle in to armchair travels to a place I’ve always wanted to go: France. This trip we get to go to Grasse- an area I’ve always wanted to go since I fell in love with Coco Chanel as a teenager- and Corsica. I had no idea outside of Napoleon what Corsica was about. I highly recommend this book and all the others she has written: gentle, sweet books that will have you dreaming of France for a long time to come! Highly Recommended 5/5
[disclaimer: I received this book from the author and voluntarily reviewed it]
July 10, 2019
Author, Patricia Sands continues too capture me with her finely-stitched, subtle, yet meaningful stories, rooted in the South of France, on the Côte d'Azur.
A Season of Surprises at the Villa des Violettes (Book 2) will take you on journey to it's corner of the world~ full of tradition, it's beauty and its abundance of love for not only its culture but it's people.
Full of secrets and surprises, the narrative bursts with the signs of Spring as our dear friends, Kat and Philippes' first guests arrive to a newly renovated B&B.
With hopes and dreams floating through the air, the descriptive countryside with its sights, sounds, and smells, and the well formed, lovable characters, the author connects us in a seamless manner while introducing a very delicate subject matter, but keeps the reader moving forward as this story sweeps you into a place of delight, with its mystery and romance.
I would like to thank Author Patricia Sands, genuinely, for not only the gift of this ARC, but in taking me on another beautiful adventure through this lovely place I've come to know, and love.....
5 Stars
#ASeasonofSurprises ~at the Villa des Violettes
#PatriciaSands
#LakeUnionAuthors
Wild Sage Book Blog
Novels N Latte Book Club
A Season of Surprises at the Villa des Violettes (Book 2) will take you on journey to it's corner of the world~ full of tradition, it's beauty and its abundance of love for not only its culture but it's people.
Full of secrets and surprises, the narrative bursts with the signs of Spring as our dear friends, Kat and Philippes' first guests arrive to a newly renovated B&B.
With hopes and dreams floating through the air, the descriptive countryside with its sights, sounds, and smells, and the well formed, lovable characters, the author connects us in a seamless manner while introducing a very delicate subject matter, but keeps the reader moving forward as this story sweeps you into a place of delight, with its mystery and romance.
I would like to thank Author Patricia Sands, genuinely, for not only the gift of this ARC, but in taking me on another beautiful adventure through this lovely place I've come to know, and love.....
5 Stars
#ASeasonofSurprises ~at the Villa des Violettes
#PatriciaSands
#LakeUnionAuthors
Wild Sage Book Blog
Novels N Latte Book Club
July 11, 2019
I loved Patricia Sand's Love in Provence series and I love that she has taken two of my favorite characters from that series and enriched their stories. This book takes us back to the Villa des Violettes for another beautiful season. Everything is starting to bloom and the Villa is welcoming their first guests.
With this book, we get to know the characters even better, as well getting to know more about the people they have come to care about and love. Kat and Philippe are such warm and loving people and have surrounded themselves with a wonderful community of friends.
Patricia's books are written with such beautiful, descriptive passages that I feel like I am there, enjoying the sights and smells, and tasting the delectable dishes right along with Kat and Philippe. This series is the perfect escape read and I always feel like I am vacationing when I dive into one of the stories. It is so hard to come back home and I look forward to taking another trip back.
With this book, we get to know the characters even better, as well getting to know more about the people they have come to care about and love. Kat and Philippe are such warm and loving people and have surrounded themselves with a wonderful community of friends.
Patricia's books are written with such beautiful, descriptive passages that I feel like I am there, enjoying the sights and smells, and tasting the delectable dishes right along with Kat and Philippe. This series is the perfect escape read and I always feel like I am vacationing when I dive into one of the stories. It is so hard to come back home and I look forward to taking another trip back.
June 26, 2019
“Life’s greatest happiness is tho be convinced we are loved.” From A SEASON OF SURPRISES AT THE VILLA DES VIOLETTES
Patricia Sands tells a story that makes you feel you are there. Right in the middle of a whole other country. While I have no idea what any of the French words are or what they mean they are a bit easy to figure out from the conversations.
Kat and Phillipe have a love story that transcends the ages. They have a home that helps many people enjoy the countryside. Their friends are always close at hand. It’s a family story in many ways.
The characters are well developed and the descriptions truly make you feel you are there. I visited France without leaving my living room. How neat is that?
Thank you to this wonderful author for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. I recommend you read it and visit another world entirely.
I gave it 4 stars.
Patricia Sands tells a story that makes you feel you are there. Right in the middle of a whole other country. While I have no idea what any of the French words are or what they mean they are a bit easy to figure out from the conversations.
Kat and Phillipe have a love story that transcends the ages. They have a home that helps many people enjoy the countryside. Their friends are always close at hand. It’s a family story in many ways.
The characters are well developed and the descriptions truly make you feel you are there. I visited France without leaving my living room. How neat is that?
Thank you to this wonderful author for the ARC in exchange for my honest opinion. I recommend you read it and visit another world entirely.
I gave it 4 stars.
Read
June 28, 2019Patricia Sands writes absolutely charming books, and her idea of following characters we know and love through the seasons of their first year of marriage is a winner. The series picks up where the Love in Provence series ends, so we get to be there as Kat and Philippe mold their happily ever after. Of course life throws curves, but with these two and their marvelous entourage, nothing can go too terribly wrong. Sands' gift for description brings the Cote D'Azure to life by engaging all of your senses. Let yourself be transported and enjoy!
Note the book can be read as a stand alone, but I recommend reading the Love in Provence series first.
Note the book can be read as a stand alone, but I recommend reading the Love in Provence series first.
June 20, 2019
Oh my, this is book #2 in the Province series. Kat and Philippe continue with the B&B. This book brings out how friends are important in life. It delves into sex slavory with young girls. The dogs, kittens, Simone baking and painting add to the charm. I love the way she describes the foods native to France. The wines, champagne and cheese make you feel like you want to be there.she describes the countryside of France with the seasons and then all the flowers. I read this straight through. I enjoyed getting to spend more time with Katsky and Philippe. I highly recommend this book.
July 2, 2019
Author Patricia Sands once again does a wonderful job of sharing with us the sights and sounds of the magical South of France. Her description of day that Kat photographs golden mimosa flowers in bloom, for example, is especially vivid. As someone who lives part of the year in Provence, I can only tip my cap to Sands and her ability to share with us the people and places that make this corner of the world so special.
This is a book about family, friendship and love. It’s a fun, quick read, perfect for the Provence-lover in your life.
This is a book about family, friendship and love. It’s a fun, quick read, perfect for the Provence-lover in your life.
July 9, 2019
This book revisits a Patricia Sands series, "Love in Provence", which I haven't read. But it made no difference as this book was a lovely stand-alone read. I did, however, read "Drawing Lessons" by Ms. Sands and, once again, was transported to Southern France. Poignant sub-plots dance around the context of a couple opening up a B&B in the Cote d'Azur and, as in "Drawing Lessons", I love the attention paid to food-- such an important piece of this culture. I plan to back up and read her Provence series next, albeit a lopsided approach!
July 9, 2019
I LOVE Patricia Sands' Books - I've read them all and do NOT want them to end!! Fortunately, we are able to follow our two favorite characters, Philippe and Katherine, and their friends, who now feel like MY friends, thru out Provence!! You can taste, feel, and smell the scenes she has put out there for all of us! I also love the intrigue/mystery she weaves in with the everyday French lives!! Where, oh, Where will she take us NEXT??!!!
August 17, 2019
It was great to get reconnected with Kat & Philippe and read about the successful opening of the Villa as a B&B. Of course, the side stories lead us on more adventures in Provence and also Corsica. So happy that a character from the past made an appearance. I was wondering what he (spoiler) was up to. A fun read even though I figured out one of the plot lines resolution. 😊 Pat's descriptions continue to make us want to visit all these places!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 28, 2019
Life of the Villa
As the saga continues with the life of Kat and Phillipe, you just wish them so much success. All the characters just make the lives of Kat and Phillipe so full. This second book of the Villa des Violettes was so wonderful. I was able to read it quickly so I could find out the ending. A well written book by a wonderful writer who bring the characters, sights, sounds, beauty, and ambiance of France to the reader. Thanks so much Patricia Sands.
As the saga continues with the life of Kat and Phillipe, you just wish them so much success. All the characters just make the lives of Kat and Phillipe so full. This second book of the Villa des Violettes was so wonderful. I was able to read it quickly so I could find out the ending. A well written book by a wonderful writer who bring the characters, sights, sounds, beauty, and ambiance of France to the reader. Thanks so much Patricia Sands.
June 30, 2019
Another winner from one if my favorite authors!
It’s always nice to reconnect with old friends and spend a few delicious hours in France! Thank you for a great read, Patricia. And for spreading the word about human trafficking, which is so important to learn about these days. Delphine is such an interesting character and we’re so glad you’ve brought her into this story.
It’s always nice to reconnect with old friends and spend a few delicious hours in France! Thank you for a great read, Patricia. And for spreading the word about human trafficking, which is so important to learn about these days. Delphine is such an interesting character and we’re so glad you’ve brought her into this story.
July 12, 2019
A totally delightful and charming story of two B&B Innkeepers in France. The story will capture your heart as it takes you on their heartwarming scenic adventures throughout the countryside. Family & friends intertwine in relationships and join together to celebrate together. Love the friendship of Katherine and Simone and how they share advice and break bread together on several occasions.
July 23, 2019
A very pleasant, easy read. Lovely descriptions of different areas in France with a mildly suspenseful sideline story. I really enjoyed this story. Great for when you just want a kind, positive lift. I am definitely going to go back and read the first in the series.
August 14, 2019
Another enjoyable book from Patricia Sands.I love reading about Kat and Phillipe and their life together,and the descriptions of the French countryside are intoxicating.
August 25, 2019
Another great book by Patricia Sands. The perfect escape to France fiction, my favorite. Love the characters and scenic descriptions. Can’t wait for the next one!
September 16, 2019
Warm-hearted characters in the sunny South of France. A wonderful comfort read.
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