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A French Affair
What will be will be...Belinda Marshall’s idyllic teenage life in Brittany, France, fell apart when her parents dramatically separated and her mother took her back to England.Fast forward thirty-five years when Belinda’s world is once again turned upside down.It’s the week before Christmas and Belinda's employer 'surprises’ her by asking for her help to rejuvenate their latest investment, a run-down campsite in Brittany.Memories and anxieties that had lain dormant for years suddenly begin to resurface.As secrets from a lost life threaten to overwhelm her, there is a realisation that maybe she wasn’t told the whole truth by her mother all those years ago.Can Belinda reconcile her emotions and find happiness once more in the place she so loved and called home?
296 pages, Paperback
First published August 4, 2020
1027 people are currently reading
563 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Bohnet
39 books288 followersSixteen years ago Richard and I, with our then dog, 14 year old Holly in a trailer attached to Richard's bike, cycled down through western France via the canal paths, arriving in Antibes in July. With the exception of two fleeting visits back to the UK we have lived in France ever since.
For the past five years we have lived in a small cottage in central Brittany with one large collie dog called Viking, one fat cat known as Little’un and a young tortoiseshell cat called Missy. Oh, and there are various ducks and chickens in the garden, and a large pond with about a hundred fish in!
I have contributed short stories and serials to many of the UK women's magazines including, The People's Friend, Candis, My Weekly, Best, Yours and my stories have been published in Australia, Sweden, South Africa and Ireland.
I also write magazine features and my work has been published in national magazines and newspapers like, The Sunday Times, The Sunday Telegraph, Daily Mail, Daily Telegraph, Home and Country, Devon Life. For over three years I had my own newspaper column in the South Hams Group of Newspapers, that took a wry look at family life.
I am a member of the Romantic Novelists' Association and the Society of Authors.
For the past five years we have lived in a small cottage in central Brittany with one large collie dog called Viking, one fat cat known as Little’un and a young tortoiseshell cat called Missy. Oh, and there are various ducks and chickens in the garden, and a large pond with about a hundred fish in!
I have contributed short stories and serials to many of the UK women's magazines including, The People's Friend, Candis, My Weekly, Best, Yours and my stories have been published in Australia, Sweden, South Africa and Ireland.
I also write magazine features and my work has been published in national magazines and newspapers like, The Sunday Times, The Sunday Telegraph, Daily Mail, Daily Telegraph, Home and Country, Devon Life. For over three years I had my own newspaper column in the South Hams Group of Newspapers, that took a wry look at family life.
I am a member of the Romantic Novelists' Association and the Society of Authors.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 149 reviews
August 20, 2021
Solid 3.5 stars. I’m really enjoying this author’s books and slowly making my way through them. I love the French settings, and the storyline is always perfect. I only ranked it a bit lower because of the somewhat lack of depth, but that’s fully to be expected with chick lit. Still loved it!
June 22, 2020
I really enjoyed this book from the beginning to the end. The setting is in France and the way the author describes it in detail, it gives you the feeling you truly are in France. The characters are unique in their own ways and there is a distinct difference between the French, the English and that one American person. I love how the author manages to create different cultural backgrounds fitting in with their heritage. The plot is good and it was quite nice to have several point of views and how the book switches from Belinda to Fern.
I do have one major issue with this book which made me give it three stars and not four. It feels so incredibly rushed from the first until the last page. We jump from one place to another and the reader barely gets time to catch their breath. While I appreciate it when authors don't fill their pages with things that hardly contribute to the story, I wish this author would've done that a little more. Even the conversations between characters are rushed and they lack depth. Everything that happens feels very nonchalant. Like the growing relationship between two people in the book, it feels like they hardly spent any real time together, developing as people and in their relationship. In the end they are just in love but the author provides little character building or hints to a developing relationship which bothered me.
So while I very much enjoyed the plot, I do feel as if it lacked in depth. It makes for a fun book to read unfortunately nothing great. If the book were to be edited to make it feel less of a marathon but more of a flowing story it could get four stars or more.
I do have one major issue with this book which made me give it three stars and not four. It feels so incredibly rushed from the first until the last page. We jump from one place to another and the reader barely gets time to catch their breath. While I appreciate it when authors don't fill their pages with things that hardly contribute to the story, I wish this author would've done that a little more. Even the conversations between characters are rushed and they lack depth. Everything that happens feels very nonchalant. Like the growing relationship between two people in the book, it feels like they hardly spent any real time together, developing as people and in their relationship. In the end they are just in love but the author provides little character building or hints to a developing relationship which bothered me.
So while I very much enjoyed the plot, I do feel as if it lacked in depth. It makes for a fun book to read unfortunately nothing great. If the book were to be edited to make it feel less of a marathon but more of a flowing story it could get four stars or more.
August 10, 2020
It is great to find a book which explores life and love for folks who aren't in their teens or twenties! It really should be entitled Some French Affairs as there's a mystery and some romances in this delightful read.
Belinda Marshall is unexpectedly returning to Brittany, some thirty-five years since, as a seventeen year old, her parents split up. She's had no contact with her much loved Dad since then and has no idea if he's even still alive or not. She's very reluctant to go there but her boss sends her to help develop their latest purchase, not fourth hotel as she surmised but a dilapidated campsite. She's unsure about trying to discover anything about her father or the community she grew up in, but it isn't far from where the campsite is located, so the temptation will be there.
The auberge where she initially stays is run by Fran and the two soon become good friends. This is the story of both these ladies, their friendships, families and potential but unexpected romances. It is a heartwarming story, including uncovering the mystery of just why Belinda's parents split so acrimoniously and a chance to reconnect with the past. It is a story where first impressions can prove so wrong, one where love can blossom when you least expect it and where family ties prove stronger than ever. There are even a couple of fun dogs who have their own roles in this story. It is a lovely story to escape into with fantastic characters, a beautiful setting, strong friendships and, of course, romance. It is another enchanting read from this highly talented author.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it and really enjoying doing so.
Belinda Marshall is unexpectedly returning to Brittany, some thirty-five years since, as a seventeen year old, her parents split up. She's had no contact with her much loved Dad since then and has no idea if he's even still alive or not. She's very reluctant to go there but her boss sends her to help develop their latest purchase, not fourth hotel as she surmised but a dilapidated campsite. She's unsure about trying to discover anything about her father or the community she grew up in, but it isn't far from where the campsite is located, so the temptation will be there.
The auberge where she initially stays is run by Fran and the two soon become good friends. This is the story of both these ladies, their friendships, families and potential but unexpected romances. It is a heartwarming story, including uncovering the mystery of just why Belinda's parents split so acrimoniously and a chance to reconnect with the past. It is a story where first impressions can prove so wrong, one where love can blossom when you least expect it and where family ties prove stronger than ever. There are even a couple of fun dogs who have their own roles in this story. It is a lovely story to escape into with fantastic characters, a beautiful setting, strong friendships and, of course, romance. It is another enchanting read from this highly talented author.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book and this is my honest review after choosing to read it and really enjoying doing so.
September 27, 2021
I am a fan of Jennifer Bohnet's novels for many reasons, but her writing style with its ease, elegance and beauty keep me coming back! Stories with French settings are appealing, in nature, to me and this is certainly no exception. With this delightful and easy read, I found myself progressing quickly through the pages and couldn't seem to get enough.
This story centers around Belinda, though we also have a lovely character named Fern who is important to the plot as well. Belinda has been through many trials but perhaps her move to France for several months to oversee a new "glamping" endeavor is one of the most industrious of all. Belinda and Fern meet and interact while foraging a new and important friendship. Their time in France is told in alternating chapters and each parallel story is equally interesting and appealing.
The locations, food and drinks described throughout this story offer wonderful appeal and interesting details that make it really come alive. This story is sweet, encouraging and heart warming and not to be missed!
This story centers around Belinda, though we also have a lovely character named Fern who is important to the plot as well. Belinda has been through many trials but perhaps her move to France for several months to oversee a new "glamping" endeavor is one of the most industrious of all. Belinda and Fern meet and interact while foraging a new and important friendship. Their time in France is told in alternating chapters and each parallel story is equally interesting and appealing.
The locations, food and drinks described throughout this story offer wonderful appeal and interesting details that make it really come alive. This story is sweet, encouraging and heart warming and not to be missed!
August 6, 2020
I haven't managed to read all of Jennifer's books to date but I have read a few. Those that I have read, I have thoroughly enjoyed. I read the synopsis for 'A French Affair' and it certainly sounded like I was going to be in for a cracking read. Well I must be psychic because that's exactly what happened. I thoroughly enjoyed reading 'A French Affair' but more about that in a bit.
'A French Affair' was a delight to read from start to finish. As soon as I began to read the story, I knew that I was going to (a) become addicted to the story and (b) I would find it increasingly difficult to put the book down for any length of time. I was spot on in both cases. My Kindle wasn't glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I really liked the main character of Belinda and I felt compelled (in the nicest possible way) to keep reading to see how life panned out for her. The pages turned increasingly quickly as I seemed to charge through the story. All too quickly I reached the end of the book and I had to say goodbye to Belinda.
I found 'A French Affair' to be a well written and absorbing story that drew me in from the first word on the first page. The author kept my attention throughout the story. Usually I have the attention span of a gnat and I am easily distracted but not in this case. I was gripped by the story from start to finish. I loved the way in which Jennifer wrote about the campsite and the area in which Belinda finds herself. In fact she described the area so vividly that if I closed my eyes, it would be easy to imagine that I was in France with the sun beating down on my face. 'A French Affair' is perfectly described as being escapist reading for the summer. I liked the way in which the author successfully weaved a few little sub plots into the overall story. I also liked the way in which she wrote about the beauty of friendships and the way in which she wrote about families and their dramas. I felt as though I was part of the story and that's thanks to Jennifer's very vivid and realistic writing style.
In short, I really enjoyed reading 'A French Affair' and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Jennifer's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 4* out of 5*.
'A French Affair' was a delight to read from start to finish. As soon as I began to read the story, I knew that I was going to (a) become addicted to the story and (b) I would find it increasingly difficult to put the book down for any length of time. I was spot on in both cases. My Kindle wasn't glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I really liked the main character of Belinda and I felt compelled (in the nicest possible way) to keep reading to see how life panned out for her. The pages turned increasingly quickly as I seemed to charge through the story. All too quickly I reached the end of the book and I had to say goodbye to Belinda.
I found 'A French Affair' to be a well written and absorbing story that drew me in from the first word on the first page. The author kept my attention throughout the story. Usually I have the attention span of a gnat and I am easily distracted but not in this case. I was gripped by the story from start to finish. I loved the way in which Jennifer wrote about the campsite and the area in which Belinda finds herself. In fact she described the area so vividly that if I closed my eyes, it would be easy to imagine that I was in France with the sun beating down on my face. 'A French Affair' is perfectly described as being escapist reading for the summer. I liked the way in which the author successfully weaved a few little sub plots into the overall story. I also liked the way in which she wrote about the beauty of friendships and the way in which she wrote about families and their dramas. I felt as though I was part of the story and that's thanks to Jennifer's very vivid and realistic writing style.
In short, I really enjoyed reading 'A French Affair' and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Jennifer's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 4* out of 5*.
August 21, 2022
A most enjoyable read with some lovely characters. Belinda’s teenage life in Brittany came to a very abrupt end. Currently working for a small group of hotels, her employer asks her to help with the rejuvenation of a campsite in Brittany. She not only meets some wonderful people but finds out what really happened. Loved escaping to France in these pages.
August 7, 2020
I can always rely on Jennifer Bohnet’s books to transport me to their location, and I was particularly delighted to find that this one was set in Brittany – I have very fond memories of camping in Finistère in the early 70s, and there was a great deal I recognised about the campsite and its smaller details.
Her characters are always excellent too, although I’ll admit it did take me just a little while to warm to Belinda – a troubleshooter for a small hotel chain, sent in to jointly manage the renovations that are needed to bring the site into the 21st century. Alain – son of the previous owners – really makes her less than welcome, and is initially spiky and difficult. But they do learn to rub along together, and both their characters – and their hard edges – become rather more rounded, and infinitely more likeable as a result. We slowly learn about Belinda’s background, and the reasons for her reluctance to spend time in Brittany – and that builds into a fascinating and complex story of family history that I thoroughly enjoyed, as the relationship between Belinda and Alain warms up rather nicely too.
Friendship features heavily too, when Belinda initially stays at the auberge run by Fern – recently widowed with fears about the future, and plenty of family concerns of her own. I really liked her thread of the story – her relationship with her 90 year old mother-in-law and the solution they find to some of those family issues, but particularly the unexpected and rather lovely developing romance and the possibility of future happiness.
The author really is a wonderful storyteller, and I thoroughly enjoyed the way this one unfolded – perfectly paced, a few surprises along the way, that strong focus on family and friendship, a couple of satisfying romances, and the vividly drawn setting. A perfect light read for an afternoon in the sunny garden, but with plenty of depth and twists and turns to keep me thoroughly engaged – recommended!
Her characters are always excellent too, although I’ll admit it did take me just a little while to warm to Belinda – a troubleshooter for a small hotel chain, sent in to jointly manage the renovations that are needed to bring the site into the 21st century. Alain – son of the previous owners – really makes her less than welcome, and is initially spiky and difficult. But they do learn to rub along together, and both their characters – and their hard edges – become rather more rounded, and infinitely more likeable as a result. We slowly learn about Belinda’s background, and the reasons for her reluctance to spend time in Brittany – and that builds into a fascinating and complex story of family history that I thoroughly enjoyed, as the relationship between Belinda and Alain warms up rather nicely too.
Friendship features heavily too, when Belinda initially stays at the auberge run by Fern – recently widowed with fears about the future, and plenty of family concerns of her own. I really liked her thread of the story – her relationship with her 90 year old mother-in-law and the solution they find to some of those family issues, but particularly the unexpected and rather lovely developing romance and the possibility of future happiness.
The author really is a wonderful storyteller, and I thoroughly enjoyed the way this one unfolded – perfectly paced, a few surprises along the way, that strong focus on family and friendship, a couple of satisfying romances, and the vividly drawn setting. A perfect light read for an afternoon in the sunny garden, but with plenty of depth and twists and turns to keep me thoroughly engaged – recommended!
August 11, 2020
It's been an absolute treat to read A French Affair as its setting in the Finistère district of Brittany reminded me of a camping holiday spent at La Forêt Fouesnant on a camp site very similar to the one featured in A French Affair.
Belinda Marshall is a successful troubleshooter working with a small chain of UK based hotels and is alarmed when her employers suddenly announce that she is to travel to northern France to oversee the develop of a new enterprise, that of a small camping area in Brittany. Belinda is sceptical about the project for reasons of her own and especially when she receives a cold welcome from Alain, the son of the previous camp site owners.
This is a really lovely story which looks at all the pitfalls of opening up a run down camp site especially when there is animosity and distrust but it's also about friendship and the gradual thawing of relationships. There are old secrets which are surfacing in Belinda's life and the author does a great job of bringing all the pieces of this particular puzzle together in a lovely warmhearted way.
This is my first book by this author and I am impressed by her easy style of writing and the way she brings all her characters very much alive in the imagination. I have enjoyed spending time with each of them especially Belinda who I warmed to from the start but also I also loved getting to know Fern who runs the local Auberge and whose delicious meals... and cakes made my mouth water 😊
Such a delight to read, I raced through A French Affair in an afternoon and thoroughly enjoyed being back in Brittany with the scent of pine and the rustle of leaves and of being immersed in a lovely, heartwarming story about love, life and friendship
June 7, 2022
Belinda is happy in her job helping to run three hotels but her life is turned upside down when her employers as her to got to France to help get their latest acquisition – a camp site rejuvenated and ready for opening.
Her anxiety is further heightened when she finds out that the campsite is very near where she was brought up until she was 17. When her parents surprisingly separated. Can she go back to where she was once so happy?
As Belinda gets to grips with her new job, makes friends within the village, can she learn what really happened all those years ago?
I really enjoyed this book, good characters and plot line. I loved the feeling you got that you were at the campsite and in the village experiencing it all. This is a great summer read and I would recommend it.
Her anxiety is further heightened when she finds out that the campsite is very near where she was brought up until she was 17. When her parents surprisingly separated. Can she go back to where she was once so happy?
As Belinda gets to grips with her new job, makes friends within the village, can she learn what really happened all those years ago?
I really enjoyed this book, good characters and plot line. I loved the feeling you got that you were at the campsite and in the village experiencing it all. This is a great summer read and I would recommend it.
July 20, 2020
A nice distracting escapist read. Bit more sad parts than I would have liked but it worked out in the end. I wish Bernie’s story had gotten a bit more detailed in the book he seemed like a fun character.
My copy was provided by NetGalley for review, all opinions are my own.
My copy was provided by NetGalley for review, all opinions are my own.
January 17, 2023
onestamente l'avevo comprato perchè costava 4€. Squallido proprio🤮
August 7, 2020
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Reading A French Affair makes you feel like packing your bags, and leaving for France in search of romance. It is a charming book which I enjoyed reading.
The author did a beautiful job with the characters and the plot. Belinda and Fern stand out in their own way, and I am happy that the author gave them equal importance. Surprisingly, in terms of the romance, I really Fern and Scott’s relationship more than Belinda and Alain. I liked Belinda’s story in terms of how she juggled work while fighting the secrets of her past. However, Fern was just an adorable character who falls in love with the charming Scott without such baggage. Their romance is so fluid and pretty. Moreover, I loved the author’s description of the quaint location of Brittany. The way the author describes the town and Auberge de Campagne is so beautiful and idyllic that made me want to go there so badly.
However, I would have loved if the author shared more scenes with Belinda and Enzo. The story is very interesting in the second half where Belinda tries to figure out her past. However, we get closure for the plot towards the very end, which felt rushed. Also, there are characters like Bernie and Anouk, who are mysterious and complex, but we really don’t get to know much about them. I would love if the author wrote a spin off for their characters, as I found them fascinating. Also, I felt like Alain was a weak character compared to the others in some parts.
Overall, A French Affair is a nice book that that is perfect if you are in the mood for a nice contemporary romance.
September 7, 2020
I wanted to read A French Affair purely because of the book’s setting. It was only about three years ago that I visited France for the very first time (albeit briefly), and then again a year or so ago when we had the chance to stay a little longer. Needless to say, I was smitten, which is why this book appealed to me so much.
I certainly wasn’t disappointed. In fact, it made me want to return again! Intrigue soon overtook me and I was very keen to find out what had happened in the main character’s past that had led to so much heartbreak for her and her family. All loose ends were tied up nicely, although I would have liked to learn a little more about her father. I did enjoy the relationship between Belinda and her French colleague though!
Admittedly, this isn’t my usual kind of book but I did enjoy it and found it to be a charming tale of friendships, family drama and love.
I certainly wasn’t disappointed. In fact, it made me want to return again! Intrigue soon overtook me and I was very keen to find out what had happened in the main character’s past that had led to so much heartbreak for her and her family. All loose ends were tied up nicely, although I would have liked to learn a little more about her father. I did enjoy the relationship between Belinda and her French colleague though!
Admittedly, this isn’t my usual kind of book but I did enjoy it and found it to be a charming tale of friendships, family drama and love.
December 10, 2022
Un libro che mi ha fatto tanta compagnia, l' ho letto in poco tempo per la sua scrittura semplice. I paesaggi Francesi, ben descritti, fanno da cornice alla fantasia di chi ama le storie d' amore e la famiglia...
July 29, 2020
🌄New starts for everyone! Lovely setting with friends, family and a little feud?
4-4.5🌟stars
I really liked the characters in this story set in rural Brittany. I am a big fan of novels that offer romance and new adventures to the over 50 set and this story has a majority of its main and key secondary characters who've experienced life and heartache and are ready to turn the page and begin a new chapter of living.
Divorced grandmother Belinda has career choices and a fractured past to address, plus she arrives in Brittany to find a brusque, confrontational Frenchman who challenges her constantly as she settles in her new assignment: quickly getting a dilapidated camping ground into shape for her hotelier bosses. Belinda aims for modernization to expand their pool of likely visitors; Alain favors the nostalgia of a more rustic, family-oriented refurbish.
Widowed Fern and her ninety year-old mother-in-law are trying to regroup after Laurent's sudden death eighteen months earlier in a car crash. Fern's been through two marriages but now, running a none too busy Auberge that she's put all of her assets into remodeling, she's a bit lost and lonely.
Belinda's story is deepened by her sad memories of ties to Brittany and the wrenching separation of her parents. Her return to Brittany after over three decades away churns up old hurts and disconcerting questions. Fern faces pressure from her son-in-law to upend her life for his family's benefit.
The plot has a good variety of action, emotion and introspection that keeps it moving at a good pace. Yes, there are quite a few sad moments and at times Fern seems to beat the brunt of them, but it's not unrealistic, especially the way her bosses make major decisions that affect her and THEN bring her in the loop, But I think the good food, fond friends and close family moments sprinkled with some clean, sweet romance make it in toto a happy story of reconciling with change and moving forward. I totally enjoyed the book and will be looking in future for others by its author.
Thanks to publishers Boldwood Books and NetGalley for providing an advance copy; this is my voluntary and honest review.
4-4.5🌟stars
I really liked the characters in this story set in rural Brittany. I am a big fan of novels that offer romance and new adventures to the over 50 set and this story has a majority of its main and key secondary characters who've experienced life and heartache and are ready to turn the page and begin a new chapter of living.
Divorced grandmother Belinda has career choices and a fractured past to address, plus she arrives in Brittany to find a brusque, confrontational Frenchman who challenges her constantly as she settles in her new assignment: quickly getting a dilapidated camping ground into shape for her hotelier bosses. Belinda aims for modernization to expand their pool of likely visitors; Alain favors the nostalgia of a more rustic, family-oriented refurbish.
Widowed Fern and her ninety year-old mother-in-law are trying to regroup after Laurent's sudden death eighteen months earlier in a car crash. Fern's been through two marriages but now, running a none too busy Auberge that she's put all of her assets into remodeling, she's a bit lost and lonely.
Belinda's story is deepened by her sad memories of ties to Brittany and the wrenching separation of her parents. Her return to Brittany after over three decades away churns up old hurts and disconcerting questions. Fern faces pressure from her son-in-law to upend her life for his family's benefit.
The plot has a good variety of action, emotion and introspection that keeps it moving at a good pace. Yes, there are quite a few sad moments and at times Fern seems to beat the brunt of them, but it's not unrealistic, especially the way her bosses make major decisions that affect her and THEN bring her in the loop, But I think the good food, fond friends and close family moments sprinkled with some clean, sweet romance make it in toto a happy story of reconciling with change and moving forward. I totally enjoyed the book and will be looking in future for others by its author.
Thanks to publishers Boldwood Books and NetGalley for providing an advance copy; this is my voluntary and honest review.
August 9, 2020
A French Affair by Jennifer Bohnet is a delightful romance featuring older lovers as well as the story of transitions, regrets, and moving forward. It has been 35 years since Belinda left Brittany and frankly, she is terrified. Not only is she returning to her childhood home, but also she is to work at a campground, a campground, after these past years as a troubleshooter for a small hotel chain. Things aren't bad enough, but when she arrives, the man with whom she is to partner for this endeavor is a jerk. The only consolation to be found is the auberge in which she arranges to stay and a lovely woman named, Fern, who owns and runs it. The campground is in a shambles and Alain, the man she found there, disagrees on every item on her list. It is beyond frustrating as they make a fragile truce and move forward with renovations.
There are all kinds of side stories in this novel. Some, although interesting, don't seem to come to a conclusion or contain sufficient motivation. None-the-less, this is a pleasant novel of several middle-aged women moving forward in their loves, not only with love affairs, but also with coming to terms with their pasts. The story is lovingly told, and generally not only entertaining, but satisfying. Belinda is a slightly damaged character; between her divorce and the secrets her mother kept about Brittany, but is certainly alert and ready for change when it comes. Fern is less so, but has a ninety-year-old mother-in-law who pushes, so she grows, kicking and screaming into a bright future as well. It is a gentle and loving story. I enjoyed it and recommend it to you.
I was invited to read a free ARC of A French Affair by Net galley. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #afrenchaffair
There are all kinds of side stories in this novel. Some, although interesting, don't seem to come to a conclusion or contain sufficient motivation. None-the-less, this is a pleasant novel of several middle-aged women moving forward in their loves, not only with love affairs, but also with coming to terms with their pasts. The story is lovingly told, and generally not only entertaining, but satisfying. Belinda is a slightly damaged character; between her divorce and the secrets her mother kept about Brittany, but is certainly alert and ready for change when it comes. Fern is less so, but has a ninety-year-old mother-in-law who pushes, so she grows, kicking and screaming into a bright future as well. It is a gentle and loving story. I enjoyed it and recommend it to you.
I was invited to read a free ARC of A French Affair by Net galley. All opinions and interpretations contained herein are solely my own. #netgalley #afrenchaffair
December 2, 2020
Romantic escapism for mature women
In these strange times it's escapism to just read about people doing normal things; having lunch with friends, hugging each other, catching the ferry to nip over to France, meeting new people.
In this book Belinda, a divorced woman and grandmother to twins, is asked by her employers to go to Brittany to troubleshoot the improvement of their latest business venture; a camping site. For Belinda the task is problematical , she spent her childhood in Brittany before an emotional crisis caused her mother to suddenly decided to return to England and sever all links with her father. On her deathbed her mother had made her promise to return and 'settle old ghosts' but Belinda hadn't yet had the time to do so.
Fern runs the auberge in the village, it was the family home of her late French husband. Divorced from her first husband she had been so happy to find love again but a car crash had taken that happiness away. She had invested her savings into turning the house into a business but the house was not here although she was entitled to live in it. When Belinda comes to stay she realises how isolated grief has made her.
The book is an easy read with enough twists to retain interest, that and the appreciation of a different lifestyle which involves food, walks in the country and nights when you can see the stars in a virtually silent world make this book an enjoyable read.
In these strange times it's escapism to just read about people doing normal things; having lunch with friends, hugging each other, catching the ferry to nip over to France, meeting new people.
In this book Belinda, a divorced woman and grandmother to twins, is asked by her employers to go to Brittany to troubleshoot the improvement of their latest business venture; a camping site. For Belinda the task is problematical , she spent her childhood in Brittany before an emotional crisis caused her mother to suddenly decided to return to England and sever all links with her father. On her deathbed her mother had made her promise to return and 'settle old ghosts' but Belinda hadn't yet had the time to do so.
Fern runs the auberge in the village, it was the family home of her late French husband. Divorced from her first husband she had been so happy to find love again but a car crash had taken that happiness away. She had invested her savings into turning the house into a business but the house was not here although she was entitled to live in it. When Belinda comes to stay she realises how isolated grief has made her.
The book is an easy read with enough twists to retain interest, that and the appreciation of a different lifestyle which involves food, walks in the country and nights when you can see the stars in a virtually silent world make this book an enjoyable read.
June 28, 2020
What a lovely gentle story, featuring a Breton campsite, an auberge owner and all manner of family history to come to terms with.
There are two main characters, Fern and Belinda. Belinda grew up in Brittany but hasn't been back since being dragged to England by her mum at a teen. The last thing she wants is for her bosses to send her to Brittany to help renovate a campsite they have purchased, given she normally works in their hotels and really doesn't fancy the trip down memory lane.
And when she gets to the campsite the person she is managing it with is not too happy she has been sent, and just wants rid of her initially.
While they get the manager accommodation up to scratch Belinda is staying in an auberge with Fern, our second leading lady. There is an easy friendship springing up between them, and Fern is having to make some tricky decisions too.
I found this to be a really calming book to read, I enjoyed the various plot lines, the secrets that are revealed and a slow burn romance. I really enjoyed Bernie's character, he lives on the campsite and is just such a gentle person, and some of his gestures really just made me smile.
It's another enjoyable book from Jennifer Bohnet, an author that I always tend to love reading.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
There are two main characters, Fern and Belinda. Belinda grew up in Brittany but hasn't been back since being dragged to England by her mum at a teen. The last thing she wants is for her bosses to send her to Brittany to help renovate a campsite they have purchased, given she normally works in their hotels and really doesn't fancy the trip down memory lane.
And when she gets to the campsite the person she is managing it with is not too happy she has been sent, and just wants rid of her initially.
While they get the manager accommodation up to scratch Belinda is staying in an auberge with Fern, our second leading lady. There is an easy friendship springing up between them, and Fern is having to make some tricky decisions too.
I found this to be a really calming book to read, I enjoyed the various plot lines, the secrets that are revealed and a slow burn romance. I really enjoyed Bernie's character, he lives on the campsite and is just such a gentle person, and some of his gestures really just made me smile.
It's another enjoyable book from Jennifer Bohnet, an author that I always tend to love reading.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
August 19, 2022
recensione a cura del blog "Libri Magnetici" by Ila
Belinda Marshall è una brillante manager di mezza età, ha un lavoro entusiasmante come direttrice di una catena di Hotel, un grazioso appartamento del Devonshire dove vive con il suo cagnolino Fido, un ex marito di cui non sente la mancanza ed è nonna di due gemelli scatenati.
Apparentemente una vita tranquilla, programmata e senza scossoni, finché per decisione dei suoi datori di lavoro deve lasciare l’Inghilterra alla volta della Francia, in Bretagna per la precisione, con lo scopo di sovraintendere i lavori di ristrutturazione di un camping alquanto sgangherato.
“Passando a tratti per paesi deserti e piccoli borghi, ebbe parecchi inaspettati dejà vu. Emozioni che le fermamente scacciò via, ma la sensazione di disagio cresceva man mano che si avvicinava alla destinazione. Ricordi a lungo sepolti iniziarono a riaffiorare nonostante i suoi tentativi di tenerli a bada. Non voleva proprio essere lì in Bretagna. Ricordare. Non poteva – non voleva – permettere a se stessa di pensare al passato.”
Belinda e la Bretagna hanno un passato in comune, lei infatti è nata in questa zona ma la separazione drammatica dei suoi genitori spinse lei e la madre a lasciare la Francia per non fare più ritorno. Belinda è quindi tutt’altro che felice del nuovo incarico, anche perché arrivata in loco si trova a dover collaborare con il vecchio proprietario del camping: Alain, uomo tutt’altro che accomodante.
“Una piccola barca a remi, attraccata vicino all’argine, si stava muovendo lentamente sull’acqua. Belinda rimase seduta per un bel po’ di tempo, ipnotizzata a guardare tre anatre che prendevano il volo. Un airone atterrò con grazia controcorrente sull’acqua che scorreva lentamente e un animale che si era mosso troppo velocemente nell’acqua per essere riconoscibile, ma che sembrava proprio essere una lontra, nuotò davanti a lei. Aveva dimenticato quanto fosse bella la Bretagna, persino in un pomeriggio nuvoloso d’inverno.”
Questo libro parla delle seconde opportunità, di quei momenti della vita in cui volenti o nolenti ci troviamo a fare i conti con sentimenti o persone che abbiamo sempre cercato di evitare, per paura di sapere e ulteriormente soffrire come nel caso di Belinda oppure di riaprire il cuore e rimanere nuovamente feriti, come nel caso di Fern, l’amica che Belinda trova in questo viaggio.
La capacità dell’autrice di portarci nelle meravigliose atmosfere della Bretagna, scrivendo una storia che parla al cuore. Personaggi che, nella loro normale umanità, nelle loro vicende in cui facilmente ci si identifica, soprattutto in un momento della vita dove le somme sembrano essere già state tirate, riescono a farci capire che non è mai troppo tardi per cambiare, per rivedere situazioni del passato, o per costruire un nuovo futuro.
quattro petali e mezzo
Belinda Marshall è una brillante manager di mezza età, ha un lavoro entusiasmante come direttrice di una catena di Hotel, un grazioso appartamento del Devonshire dove vive con il suo cagnolino Fido, un ex marito di cui non sente la mancanza ed è nonna di due gemelli scatenati.
Apparentemente una vita tranquilla, programmata e senza scossoni, finché per decisione dei suoi datori di lavoro deve lasciare l’Inghilterra alla volta della Francia, in Bretagna per la precisione, con lo scopo di sovraintendere i lavori di ristrutturazione di un camping alquanto sgangherato.
“Passando a tratti per paesi deserti e piccoli borghi, ebbe parecchi inaspettati dejà vu. Emozioni che le fermamente scacciò via, ma la sensazione di disagio cresceva man mano che si avvicinava alla destinazione. Ricordi a lungo sepolti iniziarono a riaffiorare nonostante i suoi tentativi di tenerli a bada. Non voleva proprio essere lì in Bretagna. Ricordare. Non poteva – non voleva – permettere a se stessa di pensare al passato.”
Belinda e la Bretagna hanno un passato in comune, lei infatti è nata in questa zona ma la separazione drammatica dei suoi genitori spinse lei e la madre a lasciare la Francia per non fare più ritorno. Belinda è quindi tutt’altro che felice del nuovo incarico, anche perché arrivata in loco si trova a dover collaborare con il vecchio proprietario del camping: Alain, uomo tutt’altro che accomodante.
“Una piccola barca a remi, attraccata vicino all’argine, si stava muovendo lentamente sull’acqua. Belinda rimase seduta per un bel po’ di tempo, ipnotizzata a guardare tre anatre che prendevano il volo. Un airone atterrò con grazia controcorrente sull’acqua che scorreva lentamente e un animale che si era mosso troppo velocemente nell’acqua per essere riconoscibile, ma che sembrava proprio essere una lontra, nuotò davanti a lei. Aveva dimenticato quanto fosse bella la Bretagna, persino in un pomeriggio nuvoloso d’inverno.”
Questo libro parla delle seconde opportunità, di quei momenti della vita in cui volenti o nolenti ci troviamo a fare i conti con sentimenti o persone che abbiamo sempre cercato di evitare, per paura di sapere e ulteriormente soffrire come nel caso di Belinda oppure di riaprire il cuore e rimanere nuovamente feriti, come nel caso di Fern, l’amica che Belinda trova in questo viaggio.
La capacità dell’autrice di portarci nelle meravigliose atmosfere della Bretagna, scrivendo una storia che parla al cuore. Personaggi che, nella loro normale umanità, nelle loro vicende in cui facilmente ci si identifica, soprattutto in un momento della vita dove le somme sembrano essere già state tirate, riescono a farci capire che non è mai troppo tardi per cambiare, per rivedere situazioni del passato, o per costruire un nuovo futuro.
quattro petali e mezzo
July 19, 2022
Find anmeldelsen her: https://www.instagram.com/p/CfgNIeqLQ...
Tusind tak til @ciceroforlag og @jenniewriter for anmeldereksemplaret!
“En Fransk Affære” af Jennifer Bohnet er en fortælling om at rejse ud i et forsøg på at finde sig selv. Det er en helt klassisk feelgood roman i skønne omgivelser.
Belinda Marshall får muligheden for at rejse til sin barndomsby, Bretagne, i Frankrig for at få en campingplads op at køre. Det vil dog vise sig, at barndomsbyen gemmer på mange hemmeligheder og vil minde Belinda om det liv hun forlod. Men er Belinda klar til at forene sig med fortiden?
Belinda er en meget bestemt dame, og hun ved hvad hun vil. Hun er bestemt ikke en der giver op og hun har et stort gå-på-mod. Belinda er en stærk karakter og gennem hendes handlinger i fortællingen bliver det tydeligt.
Den samme styrke som Belinda har Fern, som du også vil møde i “En Fransk Affære”. Hun har også en masse i bagagen, men er også villig til at kæmpe for sine drømme.
At fortællingen foregår i Frankrig er helt perfekt. Jennifer Bohnet er rigtig god til at beskrive landskab og smuk natur, og i særdeleshed den franske.
Handlingen er stille og rolig. Der er ikke det helt store drama, og derfor kan du roligt slappe af med denne roman. Det er en fortælling du kan flygte ind i og nyde. Skrivestilen inviterer også til dette og alle beskrivelser er super smukke. Og så er der også en smuk og helt perfekt afslutning, præcis som den skal være.
Et smukt landskab og skønne karakterer pryder siderne i “En Fransk Affære”. Denne roman er lige så fin og hyggelig som forsiden udstråler.
Antal stjerner af 6: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tusind tak til @ciceroforlag og @jenniewriter for anmeldereksemplaret!
“En Fransk Affære” af Jennifer Bohnet er en fortælling om at rejse ud i et forsøg på at finde sig selv. Det er en helt klassisk feelgood roman i skønne omgivelser.
Belinda Marshall får muligheden for at rejse til sin barndomsby, Bretagne, i Frankrig for at få en campingplads op at køre. Det vil dog vise sig, at barndomsbyen gemmer på mange hemmeligheder og vil minde Belinda om det liv hun forlod. Men er Belinda klar til at forene sig med fortiden?
Belinda er en meget bestemt dame, og hun ved hvad hun vil. Hun er bestemt ikke en der giver op og hun har et stort gå-på-mod. Belinda er en stærk karakter og gennem hendes handlinger i fortællingen bliver det tydeligt.
Den samme styrke som Belinda har Fern, som du også vil møde i “En Fransk Affære”. Hun har også en masse i bagagen, men er også villig til at kæmpe for sine drømme.
At fortællingen foregår i Frankrig er helt perfekt. Jennifer Bohnet er rigtig god til at beskrive landskab og smuk natur, og i særdeleshed den franske.
Handlingen er stille og rolig. Der er ikke det helt store drama, og derfor kan du roligt slappe af med denne roman. Det er en fortælling du kan flygte ind i og nyde. Skrivestilen inviterer også til dette og alle beskrivelser er super smukke. Og så er der også en smuk og helt perfekt afslutning, præcis som den skal være.
Et smukt landskab og skønne karakterer pryder siderne i “En Fransk Affære”. Denne roman er lige så fin og hyggelig som forsiden udstråler.
Antal stjerner af 6: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 7, 2026
In Francia per amore
La protagonista, Belinda, ritorna dopo molti anni nel Nord della Francia per un incarico che sa di beffa del destino. Il romanzo, scritto dalla prolifica autrice Jennifer Bohnet, va oltre il genere romance e si eleva a studio approfondito su come un paesaggio selvaggio e amato possa fungere da bisturi sull’anima.
L’ambientazione: dove il mare si scontra con la memoria
L’azione non si svolge tra i palazzi caratteristici della Ville Lumière, ma nella Bretagna atlantica.
Il personaggio principale si ritrova a dover restaurare un vecchio campeggio decadente. Questo luogo, a prima vista malridotto, diviene l’epicentro del suo terremoto interiore.
L’Autrice gioca con la potenza tipica del paesaggio bretone: i cieli carichi di pioggia, il profumo di iodio e le scogliere a picco che simboleggiano i baratri emotivi di Belinda. La Bretagna, così, si trasforma in una camera di risonanza che amplifica ogni ricordo doloroso della protagonista.
Il viaggio e la verità celata
Il viaggio intrapreso da Belinda, pertanto, non è né propriamente lavorativo né turistico, quanto terapeutico, e avviene sotto il peso di una rivelazione agghiacciante.
Cercando di ricomporre i pezzi del campeggio e della sua esistenza, la protagonista è tormentata dai suoi fantasmi interiori.
Belinda sarà in grado di ricostruire il sito e smascherare l’inganno che ha condizionato tre decenni della sua vita, prima che la bellezza indomita e la malinconia della Bretagna la inghiottano per sempre? La posta in gioco è alta: la sua pace e la possibilità di ritrovare l’amore.
https://gaetanoriccioscrittore.weebly...
La protagonista, Belinda, ritorna dopo molti anni nel Nord della Francia per un incarico che sa di beffa del destino. Il romanzo, scritto dalla prolifica autrice Jennifer Bohnet, va oltre il genere romance e si eleva a studio approfondito su come un paesaggio selvaggio e amato possa fungere da bisturi sull’anima.
L’ambientazione: dove il mare si scontra con la memoria
L’azione non si svolge tra i palazzi caratteristici della Ville Lumière, ma nella Bretagna atlantica.
Il personaggio principale si ritrova a dover restaurare un vecchio campeggio decadente. Questo luogo, a prima vista malridotto, diviene l’epicentro del suo terremoto interiore.
L’Autrice gioca con la potenza tipica del paesaggio bretone: i cieli carichi di pioggia, il profumo di iodio e le scogliere a picco che simboleggiano i baratri emotivi di Belinda. La Bretagna, così, si trasforma in una camera di risonanza che amplifica ogni ricordo doloroso della protagonista.
Il viaggio e la verità celata
Il viaggio intrapreso da Belinda, pertanto, non è né propriamente lavorativo né turistico, quanto terapeutico, e avviene sotto il peso di una rivelazione agghiacciante.
Cercando di ricomporre i pezzi del campeggio e della sua esistenza, la protagonista è tormentata dai suoi fantasmi interiori.
Belinda sarà in grado di ricostruire il sito e smascherare l’inganno che ha condizionato tre decenni della sua vita, prima che la bellezza indomita e la malinconia della Bretagna la inghiottano per sempre? La posta in gioco è alta: la sua pace e la possibilità di ritrovare l’amore.
https://gaetanoriccioscrittore.weebly...
October 24, 2025
Zaradi serije kriminalnih romanov Jean Luc Bannalec sem se dobesedno zaljubila v Bretanjo. Ob naslovu Bretonska zgodba seveda nisem oklevala in jo iz knjižnice prinesla domov. In spet sanjala o potovanju v Bretanju. Morda se sanje kdaj pa kdaj le uresničijo, do tedaj pa so na voljo tudi knjige.
Belindo, takoj za tem, ko opravi maturo, mama nepričakovano odpelje iz Bretanje v Anglijo. Vzrok za takšno odločitev je nejasen, toda mamino sovraštvo do Belindinega očeta traja do njene smrti. Šele tik pred tem Belindi naroči, naj se vrne v Bretanjo in poišče skrivnostni razlog in se pomiri s preteklostjo. Toda Belinda tega ne zmoe. 35 let že ni bila tam in se nima namena vrniti. Toda njena delodajalca ji data novo nalogo. Poskrbeti mora za nov kamp, ki sta ga kupila... v Bretanji seveda.
Tam pa spremljamo tudi zgodbo angležinje Fran.
Razveselila sem se, ko sem kakšno mesto spoznala iz moje prve omenjene serije, toda tu sem dobila Bretanje zelo malo. Nekaj mest, jezero, nekaj malega jedi. Namesto tega sem spremljala sicer zelo nežno in prijetno zgodbo, takšno z zelo belo obarvanimi karakterji. Nedvomno bo marsikaterega bralca odvrnilo kar precej stavkov, napisanih v francoščini in neprevedenih, a meni je bilo to simpatično, ker jo na srečo znam. Toda če priznavamo vse anglizme v knjigah, potem je bilo tole zgolj prisrčno. Žal je tudi kar nekaj napakic preveč, v glavnem pa gre za zamenjave črk, ni tako zelo moteče. Če povzamem, čisto simpatična knjiga, takšna sproščujoča in pozitivna.
Belindo, takoj za tem, ko opravi maturo, mama nepričakovano odpelje iz Bretanje v Anglijo. Vzrok za takšno odločitev je nejasen, toda mamino sovraštvo do Belindinega očeta traja do njene smrti. Šele tik pred tem Belindi naroči, naj se vrne v Bretanjo in poišče skrivnostni razlog in se pomiri s preteklostjo. Toda Belinda tega ne zmoe. 35 let že ni bila tam in se nima namena vrniti. Toda njena delodajalca ji data novo nalogo. Poskrbeti mora za nov kamp, ki sta ga kupila... v Bretanji seveda.
Tam pa spremljamo tudi zgodbo angležinje Fran.
Razveselila sem se, ko sem kakšno mesto spoznala iz moje prve omenjene serije, toda tu sem dobila Bretanje zelo malo. Nekaj mest, jezero, nekaj malega jedi. Namesto tega sem spremljala sicer zelo nežno in prijetno zgodbo, takšno z zelo belo obarvanimi karakterji. Nedvomno bo marsikaterega bralca odvrnilo kar precej stavkov, napisanih v francoščini in neprevedenih, a meni je bilo to simpatično, ker jo na srečo znam. Toda če priznavamo vse anglizme v knjigah, potem je bilo tole zgolj prisrčno. Žal je tudi kar nekaj napakic preveč, v glavnem pa gre za zamenjave črk, ni tako zelo moteče. Če povzamem, čisto simpatična knjiga, takšna sproščujoča in pozitivna.
March 9, 2023
3.5 stars. What I appreciated most about this charming story was the believability of the characters and storyline. Instead of some young, beautiful girl being swept up in a mad affair in a super romantic setting, we instead have adults in middle age, who have lived and lost and experienced several things in their lives. The emotions and dilemmas ring true, and the romance feels more grounded than fanciful. Belinda's dread of uncovering her past and her emotions following each new discovery ring true and we feel empathy for her as she navigates her past memories and present situation. As you expect from a romance, there is a happy resolution, yet the characters will still have to live with a few scars from their past, like real people do. Instead of the obvious Paris or Cote d'Azur setting, we have beautiful Brittany and a forest campground as the main setting. This is not my normal reading genre, and I felt the pacing was slow for my taste with all the dialogue and detailed description of what everyone did during their day. However, the detail also made the story feel realistic and created a solid sense of place and time, so I give credit to the author for what I feel is a solid and enjoyable read in the contemporary romance genre.
(Note about the audiobook: I found the French accent used for some characters to be forced and distracting at times, although I know it was used to identify the French from the British characters.)
(Note about the audiobook: I found the French accent used for some characters to be forced and distracting at times, although I know it was used to identify the French from the British characters.)
August 12, 2020
If you adore novels set in stunning locations then you cannot fail to love a Jennifer Bohnet novel. The reader is always transported to a whole new world and in A French Affair we are whisked away to Brittany in France where Belinda has been sent to turn a dilapidated camping site into a glamorous and thriving business. Trouble is, she has to share the responsibility with the rude and mysterious Alain.
The campsite and surrounding area where Belinda spends time is described with a vivid richness that made me want to go there immediately. The serenity of the campsite and the joy of watching it all come together was wonderful. In the local area I absorbed every taste and sight there was.
Jennifer Bohnet doesn't just tell stories. She creates characters, situations and friendships that are so real they jump of the pages and into your hearts. Belinda is a little bit of a closed book at the beginning of the novel but as the story progresses snippets of Belinda's past are revealed, allowing the reader to really develop an understanding of her behaviour and thoughts at times.
Overall this is a light read but has a good balance of drama and emotional threads too. Clear your schedule if you're picking this one up because you won't want to leave Brittany, its inhabitants or Belinda once you start.
The campsite and surrounding area where Belinda spends time is described with a vivid richness that made me want to go there immediately. The serenity of the campsite and the joy of watching it all come together was wonderful. In the local area I absorbed every taste and sight there was.
Jennifer Bohnet doesn't just tell stories. She creates characters, situations and friendships that are so real they jump of the pages and into your hearts. Belinda is a little bit of a closed book at the beginning of the novel but as the story progresses snippets of Belinda's past are revealed, allowing the reader to really develop an understanding of her behaviour and thoughts at times.
Overall this is a light read but has a good balance of drama and emotional threads too. Clear your schedule if you're picking this one up because you won't want to leave Brittany, its inhabitants or Belinda once you start.
August 5, 2020
What a lovely read! A complete tale with a beginning, a middle and a satisfactory ending.
Belinda hasn't returned to France since her parents split up when she was a teenager - her mother returned to England with her and she never saw her father again. Now divorced and close to her daughter and family, Belinda has never considered returning to Brittany until her employers send her to oversee the run down campsite they have just added to their business, tasked with bringing it up-to-date and taking guests as soon as possible. Can Belinda survive this journey full of past memories?
Jennifer Bohnet certainly pens an interesting tale full of believable characters and situations. I loved how the story develops with Belinda making new friendships and the introductions of other threads, keeping my attention throughout. There are just enough details of french food to make my mouth water as I read, and I always melt a little when characters have a canine friend in tow! A well-written, well-planned novel with engaging characters and scenic locations, this is an ideal holiday read especially this year when many of us go no further than our own back gardens! Recommended to lovers of the genre and earning a full four stars.
Belinda hasn't returned to France since her parents split up when she was a teenager - her mother returned to England with her and she never saw her father again. Now divorced and close to her daughter and family, Belinda has never considered returning to Brittany until her employers send her to oversee the run down campsite they have just added to their business, tasked with bringing it up-to-date and taking guests as soon as possible. Can Belinda survive this journey full of past memories?
Jennifer Bohnet certainly pens an interesting tale full of believable characters and situations. I loved how the story develops with Belinda making new friendships and the introductions of other threads, keeping my attention throughout. There are just enough details of french food to make my mouth water as I read, and I always melt a little when characters have a canine friend in tow! A well-written, well-planned novel with engaging characters and scenic locations, this is an ideal holiday read especially this year when many of us go no further than our own back gardens! Recommended to lovers of the genre and earning a full four stars.
August 7, 2020
This is a very atmospheric novel, and couldn’t be set anywhere other than France. The author catches the sights, sounds and all the nuances of expat life beautifully.
It’s also rather sad at times, particularly where Belinda and Fern tackle some serious issues. We experience the action of the novel from the point of view of these two characters. However, the book is fast-paced so we don’t get too long to dwell, and in contrast to these more difficult elements, there are joyful moments, and lots of life and imagination, and yes, happiness.
It is, however, essentially an optimistic novel overall, dealing as it does with facing up to truths, processing them and moving on, although that’s not as easy as it might sound. But it doesn’t shy from the damage and difficulties having such lurking truths – or rather untruths – can inflict.
The cover is lovely and oh so enticing, but since there are a lot of books out there called A French Affair, or some sort of close variation on the theme, I do worry slightly that this particular book will get lost in the melee. It really isn’t the most imaginative title! I think it deserves to made far more distinctive as it’s a unique story and should be allowed to stand out as well as it deserves to.
It’s also rather sad at times, particularly where Belinda and Fern tackle some serious issues. We experience the action of the novel from the point of view of these two characters. However, the book is fast-paced so we don’t get too long to dwell, and in contrast to these more difficult elements, there are joyful moments, and lots of life and imagination, and yes, happiness.
It is, however, essentially an optimistic novel overall, dealing as it does with facing up to truths, processing them and moving on, although that’s not as easy as it might sound. But it doesn’t shy from the damage and difficulties having such lurking truths – or rather untruths – can inflict.
The cover is lovely and oh so enticing, but since there are a lot of books out there called A French Affair, or some sort of close variation on the theme, I do worry slightly that this particular book will get lost in the melee. It really isn’t the most imaginative title! I think it deserves to made far more distinctive as it’s a unique story and should be allowed to stand out as well as it deserves to.
August 17, 2020
I received a digital ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I am quickly becoming a huge Jennifer Bohnet fan. She writes wonderful stories which, so far, are all set in idyllic parts of France. I truly believe that a good book can take you away and I have certainly just had a wonderful visit to Brittany.
There are two key characters in this book; Belinda and Fern. Both are carrying the scars of their past and are happy in their current, single, status. Belinda is divorced with a career that more than fulfils her whilst Fern is widowed after marrying her French boyfriend.
Both Belinda and Fern are strong and capable and certainly not looking for new love interests. As is common, I have found, in Jennifer’s books, there is no hint of romance until the reader is past the half-way point of the stories.
I loved reading about Brittany and the peculiar French property laws which govern the inheritance of family homes.
I avoid spoilers so, I shall leave it there.
This gentle book is a perfect summer read and is guaranteed to leave the reader very satisfied. I hope that if you do read this story, you also enjoy visiting the beautiful areas of Brittany which host this gorgeous tale.
I am quickly becoming a huge Jennifer Bohnet fan. She writes wonderful stories which, so far, are all set in idyllic parts of France. I truly believe that a good book can take you away and I have certainly just had a wonderful visit to Brittany.
There are two key characters in this book; Belinda and Fern. Both are carrying the scars of their past and are happy in their current, single, status. Belinda is divorced with a career that more than fulfils her whilst Fern is widowed after marrying her French boyfriend.
Both Belinda and Fern are strong and capable and certainly not looking for new love interests. As is common, I have found, in Jennifer’s books, there is no hint of romance until the reader is past the half-way point of the stories.
I loved reading about Brittany and the peculiar French property laws which govern the inheritance of family homes.
I avoid spoilers so, I shall leave it there.
This gentle book is a perfect summer read and is guaranteed to leave the reader very satisfied. I hope that if you do read this story, you also enjoy visiting the beautiful areas of Brittany which host this gorgeous tale.
February 15, 2021
I find the novels of Jennifer Bohnet promise french charm, and she does deliver on the food (lots of croissants and coffee) and on the dialects. She writes as a British expat in France and there is an authenticity about her depiction of french characters and the french landscape. Having said that, I find that in both 'A French Affair' and 'Villa of Sun and Secrets', her depiction of the tangled web of relationships does not quite ring true. The central relationship in 'A French Affair' begins with the classic 'hate at first sight.' You know how that will end. Alain is overly secretive for no other reason than to advance the plot, it seems, and Belinda (are there Belinda's these days?) is more conflicted about her past and the secrets of her parent's separation than any grandmother would ever be. I found myself wanting to smack these silly people. Ms. Bohnet is writing to a formula, and if you are content with that, read this book. Would it be possible to avoid in future books about the English in France, the hideous colloquialism, "so and so WAS SAT?" These kinds of Britishisms make it difficult to for the reader to suspend disbelief and imagine herself in FRANCE.
May 16, 2021
If I ever thought about going to France, this is the book which would make up my mind for me.
Belinda is an executive in a British hotel group She has been instructed to go to Brittany to help get a newly purchased camp ground in shape. When she arrives she finds Alain, a Frenchman who does not welcome her with open arms.
Fern runs an auberge in the nearby village and she and Belinda become good friends. Then Scott, an American, comes to Brittany to find out about his family history.
This is a lovely story. Belinda has a sad history in Brittany. Among other things, she feels strongly that she must find out exactly what happened to her family when she was a child. There are surprises in store for her.
The character development in this story is exceptional. Each person has a past. And the reader learns who they are and how they came to be who they have become.
Ms Bohnet is a new to me author. I definitely must find other books she has written.
I enjoyed the story. I enjoyed meeting the characters (even the dogs). Most of all, I enjoyed learning that Brittany is a wonderful place to live.
Belinda is an executive in a British hotel group She has been instructed to go to Brittany to help get a newly purchased camp ground in shape. When she arrives she finds Alain, a Frenchman who does not welcome her with open arms.
Fern runs an auberge in the nearby village and she and Belinda become good friends. Then Scott, an American, comes to Brittany to find out about his family history.
This is a lovely story. Belinda has a sad history in Brittany. Among other things, she feels strongly that she must find out exactly what happened to her family when she was a child. There are surprises in store for her.
The character development in this story is exceptional. Each person has a past. And the reader learns who they are and how they came to be who they have become.
Ms Bohnet is a new to me author. I definitely must find other books she has written.
I enjoyed the story. I enjoyed meeting the characters (even the dogs). Most of all, I enjoyed learning that Brittany is a wonderful place to live.
October 13, 2020
Fabulous read .....But
I really loved this book, great story and well written. It really was a feel good book, that had good and bad, but nothing was over the top dramatics which many are these days. No over the top of the sexual tensions either that is in so many books these days, just a darn good, interesting and page turning read. I shall be looking for more. My but however, was I found it strange that, a) Enzo didn’t seek a divorce to marry Jean, especially with her being pregnant, and b) that Helena must have been gone at least 20 years, as Belinda was 17 when she showed up and declared that Enzo was still her husband. That all was a little unbelievable. But the biggest but was that in a book of such reasonable, kind and loving people, at the end Belinda told Helena she could not forgive her. If she had said she didn’t know if she could forgive her, as it would obviously take time, and I felt that describing her look as compassionate as she said but I do feel sorry for you didn’t fit. Just my thoughts
I really loved this book, great story and well written. It really was a feel good book, that had good and bad, but nothing was over the top dramatics which many are these days. No over the top of the sexual tensions either that is in so many books these days, just a darn good, interesting and page turning read. I shall be looking for more. My but however, was I found it strange that, a) Enzo didn’t seek a divorce to marry Jean, especially with her being pregnant, and b) that Helena must have been gone at least 20 years, as Belinda was 17 when she showed up and declared that Enzo was still her husband. That all was a little unbelievable. But the biggest but was that in a book of such reasonable, kind and loving people, at the end Belinda told Helena she could not forgive her. If she had said she didn’t know if she could forgive her, as it would obviously take time, and I felt that describing her look as compassionate as she said but I do feel sorry for you didn’t fit. Just my thoughts
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