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Chateau of Echoes
The chateau held as many secrets and as its new owner, Frederique Farmer. She thought she'd found the perfect place to hide-from the shards of her life, the world at large, and even from God. She was wrong.
ebook
First published August 31, 2005
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About the author
Siri L. Mitchell
5 books33 followersalso published under the name Siri Mitchell & Iris Anthony
Siri Mitchell graduated from the University of Washington with a business degree and worked in various levels of government. As a military spouse, she has lived all over the world, including Paris and Tokyo. Siri enjoys observing and learning from different cultures. She is fluent in French and loves sushi.
But she is also a member of a strange breed of people called novelists. When they’re listening to a speaker and taking notes, chances are, they’ve just had a great idea for a plot or a dialogue. If they nod in response to a really profound statement, they’re probably thinking, “Yes. Right. That’s exactly what my character needs to hear.” When they edit their manuscripts, they laugh at the funny parts. And cry at the sad parts. Sometimes they even talk to their characters.
Siri wrote 4 books and accumulated 153 rejections before signing with a publisher. In the process, she saw the bottoms of more pints of Ben & Jerry’s than she cares to admit. At various times she has vowed never to write another word again. Ever. She has gone on writing strikes and even stooped to threatening her manuscripts with the shredder.
Siri Mitchell graduated from the University of Washington with a business degree and worked in various levels of government. As a military spouse, she has lived all over the world, including Paris and Tokyo. Siri enjoys observing and learning from different cultures. She is fluent in French and loves sushi.
But she is also a member of a strange breed of people called novelists. When they’re listening to a speaker and taking notes, chances are, they’ve just had a great idea for a plot or a dialogue. If they nod in response to a really profound statement, they’re probably thinking, “Yes. Right. That’s exactly what my character needs to hear.” When they edit their manuscripts, they laugh at the funny parts. And cry at the sad parts. Sometimes they even talk to their characters.
Siri wrote 4 books and accumulated 153 rejections before signing with a publisher. In the process, she saw the bottoms of more pints of Ben & Jerry’s than she cares to admit. At various times she has vowed never to write another word again. Ever. She has gone on writing strikes and even stooped to threatening her manuscripts with the shredder.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 90 reviews
April 20, 2022
A page turner that takes place in a chateau in Brittany, France. I loved the beautiful imagery and attention to detail, and the inclusion of legends added a mystical feeling to the book. The touch of suspense was just what was needed for a medieval chateau with its centuries of secrets.
I enjoyed reading the contemporary story more than the diary of Alix, a 15th century girl, though I still liked all of it. Frédérique, the owner of the chateau, came across as a little prickly at first but I liked her from page one. Like Frédérique, I was initially a little wary of Cranwell, her writer guest, but he turned out to be so sweet.
I liked this significantly more than the last book I read by this author (A Constant Heart). I actually first read this maybe 6 or 7 years ago but completely forgot about it until it showed up in my Goodreads feed last year. It was even better than I remembered! Highly recommend.
I enjoyed reading the contemporary story more than the diary of Alix, a 15th century girl, though I still liked all of it. Frédérique, the owner of the chateau, came across as a little prickly at first but I liked her from page one. Like Frédérique, I was initially a little wary of Cranwell, her writer guest, but he turned out to be so sweet.
I liked this significantly more than the last book I read by this author (A Constant Heart). I actually first read this maybe 6 or 7 years ago but completely forgot about it until it showed up in my Goodreads feed last year. It was even better than I remembered! Highly recommend.
December 18, 2015
I enjoyed so many things about this novel--the French setting, the mouth-watering descriptions of food, the flower garden descriptions, and the past-present storyline that highlighted two romances.
There were a few elements that I skimmed because they lost my attention: numerous descriptions of clothing (I generally enjoy clothing descriptions, but this described colors and styles of outfits for nearly each character, multiple times), the intricate and lengthy descriptions of furniture, and the more didactic way some of the historical details were presented.
But if you're looking for a novel to take you away and paint vivid pictures in your mind of an intrinsically interesting place (French chateau set in the area where King Arthur may have lived), this is the book for you. While I'm not similar in personality to the main character, Freddie, I did feel we saw the world from her eyes, and that's the mark of a successful deep point of view, if you ask me. Also, the romantic elements in this book were presented so tastefully, yet so compellingly, I knew I had to read to the end to see how both past and present romances played out.
I would definitely recommend this to Christian readers looking for a different type of romance novel in an unforgettable international setting, also to those interested in well-researched historical fiction.
There were a few elements that I skimmed because they lost my attention: numerous descriptions of clothing (I generally enjoy clothing descriptions, but this described colors and styles of outfits for nearly each character, multiple times), the intricate and lengthy descriptions of furniture, and the more didactic way some of the historical details were presented.
But if you're looking for a novel to take you away and paint vivid pictures in your mind of an intrinsically interesting place (French chateau set in the area where King Arthur may have lived), this is the book for you. While I'm not similar in personality to the main character, Freddie, I did feel we saw the world from her eyes, and that's the mark of a successful deep point of view, if you ask me. Also, the romantic elements in this book were presented so tastefully, yet so compellingly, I knew I had to read to the end to see how both past and present romances played out.
I would definitely recommend this to Christian readers looking for a different type of romance novel in an unforgettable international setting, also to those interested in well-researched historical fiction.
September 17, 2017
Rating 3.5
I have to admit I was really conflicted by this book. Overall, it did not capture me like the previous Siri Mitchell book that I read. The dual time line was interesting, but I felt like both stories were lacking something. The heavy inclusions of the descriptions of the castle and the clothing during the historical time period seemed to make the story drag and feel very repetitious. The story line in both time periods moved slowly and felt like it needed more action. The tidbits of mystery also could have been tied together better. Frederique seemed stuck in one place and couldn't get passed it while in the interim she was whiny and sulky. Cranwell appeared the consummate playboy even after his becoming a Christian. The ending with both Frederique and Cranwell's change of attitudes and hearts as well as second chances felt rather rushed. Just have to say this one wasn't a hit for me.
FAVORITE QUOTES: (It did have some gems that appeared here and there.)
"For me, knowing God changes everything. There's a new presence in my life, a new awareness. And the things I did before automatically, without thinking, aren't necessarily the right ways to go about life anymore."
"My eyes swept the bookcases that surrounded me, many of them lined with books I considered to be old friends. Some books I read on an annual basis and found as much pleasure in them as the first time I discovered them."
"...prayer is a language of the spirit."
"I had decided that an atheist's proclamation is neither. It's a cowardly rejection of all that adds color and life and meaning to the world."
"Sharing a passion is not the same as sharing a life. Anyone could have an affair. Not everyone could use that passion to build a life in common; it was an emotion that existed within a glass dome. Marriage removed the dome, letting that emotion become tempered by life. Anything can exist in a controlled environment. But in the wilderness of life? Only those with the most fortitude."
I have to admit I was really conflicted by this book. Overall, it did not capture me like the previous Siri Mitchell book that I read. The dual time line was interesting, but I felt like both stories were lacking something. The heavy inclusions of the descriptions of the castle and the clothing during the historical time period seemed to make the story drag and feel very repetitious. The story line in both time periods moved slowly and felt like it needed more action. The tidbits of mystery also could have been tied together better. Frederique seemed stuck in one place and couldn't get passed it while in the interim she was whiny and sulky. Cranwell appeared the consummate playboy even after his becoming a Christian. The ending with both Frederique and Cranwell's change of attitudes and hearts as well as second chances felt rather rushed. Just have to say this one wasn't a hit for me.
FAVORITE QUOTES: (It did have some gems that appeared here and there.)
"For me, knowing God changes everything. There's a new presence in my life, a new awareness. And the things I did before automatically, without thinking, aren't necessarily the right ways to go about life anymore."
"My eyes swept the bookcases that surrounded me, many of them lined with books I considered to be old friends. Some books I read on an annual basis and found as much pleasure in them as the first time I discovered them."
"...prayer is a language of the spirit."
"I had decided that an atheist's proclamation is neither. It's a cowardly rejection of all that adds color and life and meaning to the world."
"Sharing a passion is not the same as sharing a life. Anyone could have an affair. Not everyone could use that passion to build a life in common; it was an emotion that existed within a glass dome. Marriage removed the dome, letting that emotion become tempered by life. Anything can exist in a controlled environment. But in the wilderness of life? Only those with the most fortitude."
February 8, 2025
I've so been missing Siri Mitchell's beautiful relationship building historical fiction; hence, I went digging back into the summaries of some of her early books and found this one. It's not historical fiction, exactly, but it features a heroine living in a French chateau, a love interest that writes historical fiction, and a long-lost journal ostensibly written by a woman from the Middle Ages.
Fit the bill quite nicely. And yes, I still love Mitchell's gift for building relationships.
Fit the bill quite nicely. And yes, I still love Mitchell's gift for building relationships.
December 21, 2025
Really enjoyed this story once I got into it. The tale is very much a romantic one, though, and would be best suited for age 18+ because of that. I found both modern leads easy to root for, though Freddie could be so thick headed at times that I wanted to scold her a bit. The older historical story wasn’t as much detail but was engaging also. I might reread this one soon because there’s just so much rich detail in it.
February 15, 2015
3.5 stars.
This was an entertaining read and once I picked it up, it read quite quickly!
I liked the writing style - simple yet pleasant. And when we get to read some of the diary entries of Alix, a young woman from the 15th century, the writing changed to what I presume to be the way they spoke and I found it refreshing. I don't like it when historical fiction uses modern language, but it wasn't a problem here. The style changes according to the time period you are reading about.
The diary entries themselves were nice, but I found myself skimming over some of the stories that were told in them. I would rather have read more about Alix's life, not the stories she was told.
There were a few things that confused me, I'll put it under a spoiler. Maybe someone who has read the book has an answer?
All in all it was definitely a book worth reading and, oooh, all the tasty sounding food... a must read for any chef who loves delicacies! :) I started craving a gourmet meal every few chapters!
This was an entertaining read and once I picked it up, it read quite quickly!
I liked the writing style - simple yet pleasant. And when we get to read some of the diary entries of Alix, a young woman from the 15th century, the writing changed to what I presume to be the way they spoke and I found it refreshing. I don't like it when historical fiction uses modern language, but it wasn't a problem here. The style changes according to the time period you are reading about.
The diary entries themselves were nice, but I found myself skimming over some of the stories that were told in them. I would rather have read more about Alix's life, not the stories she was told.
There were a few things that confused me, I'll put it under a spoiler. Maybe someone who has read the book has an answer?
All in all it was definitely a book worth reading and, oooh, all the tasty sounding food... a must read for any chef who loves delicacies! :) I started craving a gourmet meal every few chapters!
February 26, 2014
I like the story in this book and the fact that the present and the past mirror each other as you go along, and I always enjoy reading it. However, every time I re-read this book I find myself skipping whole pages at a time to get through the extremely detailed descriptions that Mitchell gives of the furniture, the food, and clothing in the book. At times some of these descriptions are important to the story and I can accept those, but do I really need to know what every single piece of furniture in the chateau looks like and where it came from and if it was an antique? If she had just toned down the descriptions so that they were not quite so detailed, this book would be absolutely perfect.
Read
May 2, 2011This book is set in France, which is awesome! (I went through a phase where I only wanted to read books set in France...) The story was - ok. The ending was totally abrupt. I was a little disappointed overall because of the lack of any message (considering I found it in our church library) and that ending really threw me! I enjoyed the authour's writing style, so I wouldn't automatically dismiss reading her work - just not a fan of this book.
November 17, 2011
This was alright - the story flowed well, although a few random parts seemed disjointed (the ride back to the chateau in Cranwell's car; Severine's... well, her entire character/plot.) The main character got on my nerves, too - she was depressing and cynical, for very little reason. If you can get over the faint distaste for Frankie, not a bad read.
February 24, 2010
Cute, Clean, easy, and entertaining. Sometimes we just need this kind of book. I did seem to be hungry almost the whole time I was reading it though.
April 28, 2021
I had read one other book by Siri L. Mitchell and knew she was a military spouse from her website and email. Really loved how she brought history and a story involving her Christian faith in with a love story. She did an amazing amount of research about Legends of King Arthur and others along with French cooking. There is a novel within a novel as we read the diary entries from a young french girl named Alix from the times of King Arthur.
October 31, 2012
Having fallen in love with Siri Mitchell's historical fiction, I decided to try her 2005 release, which is set in contemporary France. Getting a different and earlier view of a favorite author can be interesting, so I dove in not knowing what to expect, and ready to assess this one on its own merit.
Frederique Farmer is the owner of an ancient chateau who has discovered a set of fifteenth century journals on her property. The historical significance has made her home of some distinction, but Frederique is very interested in the privacy of her quiet life. She does occasionally book guests to come and experience her home, and, as she is a graduate of Le Cordon Blue, lavishes them with exquisite dishes.
When she receives a request from an American author to stay at her chateau while researching and writing a book, Frederique unwillingly agrees. Cranwell has a reputation that proceeds him, and Frederique is skeptical that his recent conversion to Christianity can change years of party boy behavior. To her surprise, he makes a down to earth and interesting companion, and she agrees to let him stay longer than the month originally planned upon.
A bit of mystery is introduced about 80 pages into the story. Although I enjoyed this side of the novel, it did seem as though Freddie was a bit dense and not curious at all to unravel the strange happenings right from the beginning. There's truly only one person who could have been responsible for the strange happenings, so you can see the big reveal coming right from the start. This definitely could have been done better. At least it was only a side story and not the main attraction.
I thought the spiritual side of the novel was extremely well done. Freddie lives her secluded life trying to hide from God, while Cranwell has come to her home to try to grow in Christ. There are a number of really good conversations and character revelations while exploring this topic. The romance is approached in a shy and hesitant way, as Cranwell doesn't want to get involved with someone who isn't sure about her faith, and Freddie is reluctant to trust someone with his past. At the same time, there's undeniable chemistry that must be reckoned with as they share an entire winter in each other's company.
The story would have been better had it not included lengthy passages from the fifteenth century journal. Honestly, I started skimming those after a while. Mitchell is an excellent historical writer, clearly, but I personally didn't feel it added anything to the story. The relative information could have been worked into a handful of conversations, rather than taking up chapters and chapters. Other things that bothered me were detailed descriptions of every outfit worn and every dish cooked, as that seemed excessive and indulgent.
In the end, I can say I enjoyed it. I'd definitely recommend other Mitchell titles first, but for those less inclined to enjoy historicals, check this one out and be swept away to the French countryside. You'll find some new friends!
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.livejournal.com
Frederique Farmer is the owner of an ancient chateau who has discovered a set of fifteenth century journals on her property. The historical significance has made her home of some distinction, but Frederique is very interested in the privacy of her quiet life. She does occasionally book guests to come and experience her home, and, as she is a graduate of Le Cordon Blue, lavishes them with exquisite dishes.
When she receives a request from an American author to stay at her chateau while researching and writing a book, Frederique unwillingly agrees. Cranwell has a reputation that proceeds him, and Frederique is skeptical that his recent conversion to Christianity can change years of party boy behavior. To her surprise, he makes a down to earth and interesting companion, and she agrees to let him stay longer than the month originally planned upon.
A bit of mystery is introduced about 80 pages into the story. Although I enjoyed this side of the novel, it did seem as though Freddie was a bit dense and not curious at all to unravel the strange happenings right from the beginning. There's truly only one person who could have been responsible for the strange happenings, so you can see the big reveal coming right from the start. This definitely could have been done better. At least it was only a side story and not the main attraction.
I thought the spiritual side of the novel was extremely well done. Freddie lives her secluded life trying to hide from God, while Cranwell has come to her home to try to grow in Christ. There are a number of really good conversations and character revelations while exploring this topic. The romance is approached in a shy and hesitant way, as Cranwell doesn't want to get involved with someone who isn't sure about her faith, and Freddie is reluctant to trust someone with his past. At the same time, there's undeniable chemistry that must be reckoned with as they share an entire winter in each other's company.
The story would have been better had it not included lengthy passages from the fifteenth century journal. Honestly, I started skimming those after a while. Mitchell is an excellent historical writer, clearly, but I personally didn't feel it added anything to the story. The relative information could have been worked into a handful of conversations, rather than taking up chapters and chapters. Other things that bothered me were detailed descriptions of every outfit worn and every dish cooked, as that seemed excessive and indulgent.
In the end, I can say I enjoyed it. I'd definitely recommend other Mitchell titles first, but for those less inclined to enjoy historicals, check this one out and be swept away to the French countryside. You'll find some new friends!
This review originated at http://reviewsbyerin.livejournal.com
June 22, 2013
I read this book several years ago, not long after I read Siri Mitchell's "Cubicle Next Door" and LOVED that book. After I finished, I gave it back to my friend and didn't read any more by Ms. Mitchell after that.
Years passed, and a friend asked me if I'd read it when I mentioned that I liked "Cubicle." I said I had and didn't like it. She asked why. Well, back when I read it, I found it pretty smutty for my tastes. The long, drawn-out seduction of a child was, in my opinion, too much for me to handle. I know she was "married." I know that as his wife, the man didn't have to take the time to let her grow up a little etc. That didn't matter to me. The WAY it was done bothered me.
My friend seriously thought I hadn't read the same book. It made me wonder if it'd been edited or something, because she didn't think there was any smut. Soooooooo I reread it.
Why the two star rating?
Overall: Won't read it again and can't really recommend it.
What I liked: I liked the premise. It was a brilliant premise. She managed to weave two different centuries (500 years a part no less) seamlessly. Not once did I feel jerked from one time to another or confused as to what was going on.
What I didn't like: The seduction. My logical brain says it makes sense, but I still don't like it. It wasn't as bad as I remembered, but I couldn't raise my star rating for it. Why? Because even without that seduction, the detail in this book killed it for me. It seemed like I was reading a product placement advertisement for the Tourism of France board and couture fashion brands. I think had it not been told in first person, this wouldn't have been a problem. However, I read line after line of things like, "I donned my powder blue angora sweater and wrapped my Hermes scarf around my neck for a splash of color." Um... it just doesn't work for me. Had it been told in third person, it would make sense, but I don't know anyone who would describe a scene about herself like that. Dialogue would have helped that descriptive stuff a lot. One sentence made it sound like she put on a sweater with a shawl collar and then tied her arms around herself. It took sharing with friends to figure out that she meant she tied a belt. There was no mention of belts--just putting your arms in sleeves and tying it. Things like that broke the flow for me.
Note: I usually don't let my dislike for first person fiction affect my reviews. I remove that from the star equations. That said, in this book, I did let it affect the review because of the descriptiveness. It was really difficult to get past. I think that without the combination of those two things, I could have given this book a three star rating.
Years passed, and a friend asked me if I'd read it when I mentioned that I liked "Cubicle." I said I had and didn't like it. She asked why. Well, back when I read it, I found it pretty smutty for my tastes. The long, drawn-out seduction of a child was, in my opinion, too much for me to handle. I know she was "married." I know that as his wife, the man didn't have to take the time to let her grow up a little etc. That didn't matter to me. The WAY it was done bothered me.
My friend seriously thought I hadn't read the same book. It made me wonder if it'd been edited or something, because she didn't think there was any smut. Soooooooo I reread it.
Why the two star rating?
Overall: Won't read it again and can't really recommend it.
What I liked: I liked the premise. It was a brilliant premise. She managed to weave two different centuries (500 years a part no less) seamlessly. Not once did I feel jerked from one time to another or confused as to what was going on.
What I didn't like: The seduction. My logical brain says it makes sense, but I still don't like it. It wasn't as bad as I remembered, but I couldn't raise my star rating for it. Why? Because even without that seduction, the detail in this book killed it for me. It seemed like I was reading a product placement advertisement for the Tourism of France board and couture fashion brands. I think had it not been told in first person, this wouldn't have been a problem. However, I read line after line of things like, "I donned my powder blue angora sweater and wrapped my Hermes scarf around my neck for a splash of color." Um... it just doesn't work for me. Had it been told in third person, it would make sense, but I don't know anyone who would describe a scene about herself like that. Dialogue would have helped that descriptive stuff a lot. One sentence made it sound like she put on a sweater with a shawl collar and then tied her arms around herself. It took sharing with friends to figure out that she meant she tied a belt. There was no mention of belts--just putting your arms in sleeves and tying it. Things like that broke the flow for me.
Note: I usually don't let my dislike for first person fiction affect my reviews. I remove that from the star equations. That said, in this book, I did let it affect the review because of the descriptiveness. It was really difficult to get past. I think that without the combination of those two things, I could have given this book a three star rating.
January 19, 2013
I enjoyed the story in this book. The heroine is reluctant to let herself be interested in the love interest and this makes their relationship develop very slowly. When reading a love story, I find it more satisfying when the author makes you wait. Siri Mitchell does a wonderful job here with characters who have believable reasons for holding back. And even though most of the action takes place inside the same house (chateau, I should say), it didn't feel monotonous. Overall, the story was great. Why didn't I rate it higher? The author kept interupting this moving story with overly detailed descriptions of what her characters were eating and wearing. It almost felt like she wrote this book and someone told her it was a few thousand words short so she just decided to add two (or more) adjectives to each article of clothing and never let the characters eat anything that didn't sound like a description on a restaurant menu.
There is a secondary story, told through journal entires of someone who lived in the chateau a few hundred years before its current owner. I don't read a lot of historical fiction, but I still mostly enjoyed this side plot. My only complaint there was some awkward wording. Mostly that the journal usually included retelling what others had told that character. It reads so-and-so says me this and says me that instead of told me this and told me that. Made me wince every time.
There is a secondary story, told through journal entires of someone who lived in the chateau a few hundred years before its current owner. I don't read a lot of historical fiction, but I still mostly enjoyed this side plot. My only complaint there was some awkward wording. Mostly that the journal usually included retelling what others had told that character. It reads so-and-so says me this and says me that instead of told me this and told me that. Made me wince every time.
May 17, 2013
This is the first Siri Mitchell book I have read. The book's description convinced me to try the book. I am not sure it entirely lived up to my expectations but it did not totally disappoint, either. For one, the description of the story made me think it would be much more lighthearted than it was.
I am not sure how to rate this. Mitchell writes well, in a general sense, and I would read other books by this author.
Things I liked:
The characters
The house and the setting
That there was more going on than just the romance
That the story did not seem to drag on in a convoluted way like some of the romances I have read lately
That the whole Christian part of the story was not overdone
Things I did not like as well:
I did not need all the food details for each meal--I found I skipped over those details eventually
Initially, I did not like the inclusion (intrusion) of the old story--initially, I would have preferred two separate stories in two separate books
I did not feel Freddie's "guilt" rang very true
I found I scan-read at times, which usually means that there is unnecessary verbiage in the writing
I am not sure either story was as fully developed as it could have been, as my imagination thought they would be
I am not sure how to rate this. Mitchell writes well, in a general sense, and I would read other books by this author.
Things I liked:
The characters
The house and the setting
That there was more going on than just the romance
That the story did not seem to drag on in a convoluted way like some of the romances I have read lately
That the whole Christian part of the story was not overdone
Things I did not like as well:
I did not need all the food details for each meal--I found I skipped over those details eventually
Initially, I did not like the inclusion (intrusion) of the old story--initially, I would have preferred two separate stories in two separate books
I did not feel Freddie's "guilt" rang very true
I found I scan-read at times, which usually means that there is unnecessary verbiage in the writing
I am not sure either story was as fully developed as it could have been, as my imagination thought they would be
Read
March 25, 2015Frederique Farmer has owned and restored fifteenth century French chateau and turns it into a bed and breakfast. One day while on her daily jog around the property she trips on something in the meadow. She looks down and sees an old trap-door. The next day she opens the door and as she looks around the space she sees an old chest. When she opens the chest she finds old journals and sends them to the University of Rennes. The university findings show that the journals were written by a fifteenth century girl by the name of Alix Monet. The journals become international news. Two years later an American author by the name of Cranwell calls and asks if he may stay at the bed and breakfast for six months to do research for his next fiction book. Frederique says he may stay for one month. When Cranwell arrives, Frederique's life starts to turn upside down. In the end she starts to fall for Cranwell and Cranwell for her.
Chateau of Echoes is very well written and there were not any obvious flaws to the book. The only thing I wished the author had is that in parentheses, after a sentence was said in French, have the English translation so the reader would not have to guess what was said. I give this book 4.5 stars.
Chateau of Echoes is very well written and there were not any obvious flaws to the book. The only thing I wished the author had is that in parentheses, after a sentence was said in French, have the English translation so the reader would not have to guess what was said. I give this book 4.5 stars.
January 23, 2015
I both liked and disliked this book, luckily not in equal measure.
I enjoyed the modern parts of the story with Freddie living in her Breton Chateau, taking in guests as and when she chose, in order to pay for refurbishment of her beloved home.
Also Alix's journal, set in much earlier times. This was a complete contrast, showing a young, immature girl not in control of her life.
For me, the downsides were the frequent wordy descriptions of all the clothes Freddie and her guests wore. I could not decide if this was intended as part of the characterisation, showing an obsession with small details of her mini world. The same details about meals seemed to fit in with her love of Haute Cuisine and growing / preparing her own ingredients.
With the clothing details however, too often it pushed me out of the story and I had to make an effort to carry on reading and be drawn back in again.
Knowing it is listed as a Christian novel, for the most part I did not find it overpowering but occasionally it was. This is obviously personal reaction as I chose to read it, rather than a reflection of the book.
I enjoyed the modern parts of the story with Freddie living in her Breton Chateau, taking in guests as and when she chose, in order to pay for refurbishment of her beloved home.
Also Alix's journal, set in much earlier times. This was a complete contrast, showing a young, immature girl not in control of her life.
For me, the downsides were the frequent wordy descriptions of all the clothes Freddie and her guests wore. I could not decide if this was intended as part of the characterisation, showing an obsession with small details of her mini world. The same details about meals seemed to fit in with her love of Haute Cuisine and growing / preparing her own ingredients.
With the clothing details however, too often it pushed me out of the story and I had to make an effort to carry on reading and be drawn back in again.
Knowing it is listed as a Christian novel, for the most part I did not find it overpowering but occasionally it was. This is obviously personal reaction as I chose to read it, rather than a reflection of the book.
March 29, 2016
Taking place in France, Cranwell has come to Freddie's chateau to research Alix de Montot, a fifteenth century young woman who lived in the chateau. So while we learn about Freddie and Cranwell, we also get Alix's story written in diary form. Cranwell's intrusion into Freddie's well-ordered world, and also learning about Alix's arranged marriage, makes her look at her life and her belief's and how she really feels about it all. Freddie, Cranwell, and Alix are complex people whose layers take a while to peel back one by one. The beauty is in the peeling back. It's gentle and quiet, but soon you're sucked in and don't realize how subtly the characters are changing until there you are! As Freddie herself says, "There were moments of incredible happiness strung together with real life." And several moments of laughter and fun. Don't let the length of this book scare you away. It's a wonderful story and very well worth your time! :)
November 4, 2013
Really disappointed in this novel, as it sounded like such an interesting set-up! The "current day" story drug on way too long, and I swear Frederique was just plain stupid at times. Cranwell is a bad guy gone good, but there was surprisingly little preaching. The mystery wasn't all that mysterious, and I was disappointed that more info wasn't revealed in the find.
The writing itself was done well, but it felt very heavy and kind of self-indulgent. I enjoyed learning a bit about French chateaus and some history of the region; the "journals" from the 15th century were somewhat interesting, but the stories grew old, and the end (when Alix is finally ready to step into the role of wife) was a bit awkward.
The writing itself was done well, but it felt very heavy and kind of self-indulgent. I enjoyed learning a bit about French chateaus and some history of the region; the "journals" from the 15th century were somewhat interesting, but the stories grew old, and the end (when Alix is finally ready to step into the role of wife) was a bit awkward.
April 20, 2014
I've been a huge fan of Siri Mitchell's ever since I read, "She walks in Beauty", so I was pretty excited to add another of her novels to my bookshelf. "Chateau of Echoes" is about Freddie, a widowed woman who renovates a chateau she purchased and stumbles upon ancient artifacts, drawing the attention of an American author.
I liked several things about the book, like the premise and the way the author was able to weave together two different centuries. I wasn't a fan of how slow the book progressed and the constant description of food got to be a little annoying although it makes sense why it was there (Freddie is a chef).
I didn't have a problem with the romantic aspect but felt that the book ended a little too quickly.
Even after all that, I am a huge fan of Siri!
I liked several things about the book, like the premise and the way the author was able to weave together two different centuries. I wasn't a fan of how slow the book progressed and the constant description of food got to be a little annoying although it makes sense why it was there (Freddie is a chef).
I didn't have a problem with the romantic aspect but felt that the book ended a little too quickly.
Even after all that, I am a huge fan of Siri!
December 26, 2010
I really really liked reading this book. Its a sweeping story within a story, and the 'character' of the Chateau is so descriptive. I especially loved reading the substory of Alix and Awen, thru the journal of Alix. Being 13 and married is odd, and Siri Mitchell's take on an extremely poignant and at times heart wrenching look into falling in love as you literally grow into your role as wife, is done very deftly.
The book makes me want to live somewhere epic like that. This was the first book I read of the authors', and I love her writing style. Witty, intense, heart-wrenching, the author takes you into the moments with the characters. Definitely recommend.
The book makes me want to live somewhere epic like that. This was the first book I read of the authors', and I love her writing style. Witty, intense, heart-wrenching, the author takes you into the moments with the characters. Definitely recommend.
February 7, 2012
There were things I liked and those I didn't in this story. In the end, the dislikes won and I felt this story was a little self-indulgent. It is two stories in one - the main story is a modern day woman running a B&B out of a chateau in France. The second story is journal entries from Alix, a woman who lived in the chateau centuries before. I loved these journal entries! Reading about life during that period was fascinating. But the modern story just dragged on - especially because the main character went into lame details about every single outfit she wore and meal she baked.
I wish there had been more about Alix.
I wish there had been more about Alix.
May 23, 2013
Set in an ancient chateau in Brittany (northern France), this story encompases modern day Frederique's life running an Historical Inn, along with the journal of a fifteenth century child bride, Alix.
A handsome author, Cramwell, comes for an extended stay to research and write his next novel, and turns Frederique's life upside down.
Along with character interactions, I liked the stories and discussions about King Arthur, and Cramwell working through his writing process. Lots of French food, fashion descriptions, and French words add to the overall delight of this story. Several high action scenes add to the enjoyment.
A handsome author, Cramwell, comes for an extended stay to research and write his next novel, and turns Frederique's life upside down.
Along with character interactions, I liked the stories and discussions about King Arthur, and Cramwell working through his writing process. Lots of French food, fashion descriptions, and French words add to the overall delight of this story. Several high action scenes add to the enjoyment.
October 23, 2009
I finally read the book! I did enjoy it, as I enjoy most of her books (with certain caveats). I liked the setting, the storyline (for the most part), and the heroine and hero. I thought it was well-written and interesting. I liked how she interwove the old diary entries in with the modern-day story.
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Bought this book tonight to read. Was on clearance (4.97 or something like that) so even better as I don't care to actually support this author's "Christian" writing career. Am I bad or what?
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Bought this book tonight to read. Was on clearance (4.97 or something like that) so even better as I don't care to actually support this author's "Christian" writing career. Am I bad or what?
September 23, 2013
I can't say I share Ms. Michell's love of all things French, so the book started out very difficult to get into. The sub plot of Alix really didn't interest me until the end. There were a few too many details pertaining to what people were wearing; quite strange. Although I came to love Cranwell and was rooting for Freddie - the ending was disappointing. I left really needing an epilogue for closure at least. I love Siri's books... probably read almost all now. This was certainly different and in the end, was glad to have read it.
November 25, 2013
I loved this book for a lot of reasons: Set in France in modern-day, with an accompanying tale from the old, old Brittany (somewhat mythological); the heroine is a chef with some really fun references to what's cooking; a love story besought with mystery; and a wonderful old chateau that has a setting in the history books. One of my dislikes was the absolute detail the author gave in describing clothes and wardrobes, down to the color and types of material. I felt it was overkill and seemed to take away from the tale at the heart of the story.
December 27, 2018
Freddie bought a chateau in France after her husband was killed. She's fixed it up and uses it sparingly as a bed and breakfast. She has university student staying doing research on a former famous inhabitant who helps her with things. Then a writer asks to come and stay for a month. He is writing a book based on the famous woman. Thus begins a routine that becomes normal with a few strange happenings. Interspersed with the narrative are excerpts from the famous woman's dairy.
Nice, funny clean chicklit.
Nice, funny clean chicklit.
March 21, 2016
A widow Frederique, distraught over the death of her atheist husband Peter, buys a chateau in Brittany, France, and restores it as a hotel; however, she doesn't often have guests by choice. When a persistent, obnoxious American author bulldozes his way into staying for a few months to research his next novel, she is not able to thwart his appearance. Her chambermaid, Severine, is also doing similar research while at the university, but her behavior is often erratic and bizarre. Needless to say, the widow learns that many things are not as they seem.
March 28, 2008
Really enjoyed this book. A little bit of a mystery a little romance and on top of it all a Christian book without being preachy. Loved the setting in a castle in France. Someone loaned this book to my sister after our mother died and it was a delightful escape. It was like a gift to have something this peaceful to read at such a turbulent time.
June 20, 2009
I love the setting, a secluded chateau B&B in France. The history of the area comes to life through the diary of a young bride who lived in the chateau a few hundred years earlier.
The story is a beautiful blend of a contemporary story and a historical one combined. The book is full of flavors, colors, and smells. It's almost like an affordable getaway to this quiet bit of France.
The story is a beautiful blend of a contemporary story and a historical one combined. The book is full of flavors, colors, and smells. It's almost like an affordable getaway to this quiet bit of France.
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