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Birthright
A woman's quest to save her family's chateau in France brings danger, rivalry, and romance--and reveals a secret buried since World War II . . .
1931, Chateau de Chevalier: Ophélie, La Duchesse de Bombelle, receives a love letter from her admirer Picasso along with a gift: a priceless painting. Nine years later, the Nazis invade France and steal countless works of art, including Ophélie's gift . . .
Present day: Ophélie's grandson, Hugo, has run the family finances into the ground, and the Chateau is in danger of being sold. Fabienne, heiress to the estate, has hastily returned from London and is desperate to save her home.
Meanwhile, Mac, a British man who has spent every summer in France with his late grandparents, inherits their cottage--but his property is in danger of being lost as well. When Mac returns, memories of happy times with two people he adored come flooding back--along with guilt that he didn't return in time to say goodbye to his beloved grandfather.
When Mac is reunited with Fabienne, their attempts to rescue their futures will plunge them into the darkness of the past--and the dangers of the present--in this powerful, suspenseful saga by the author of Resistance.
1931, Chateau de Chevalier: Ophélie, La Duchesse de Bombelle, receives a love letter from her admirer Picasso along with a gift: a priceless painting. Nine years later, the Nazis invade France and steal countless works of art, including Ophélie's gift . . .
Present day: Ophélie's grandson, Hugo, has run the family finances into the ground, and the Chateau is in danger of being sold. Fabienne, heiress to the estate, has hastily returned from London and is desperate to save her home.
Meanwhile, Mac, a British man who has spent every summer in France with his late grandparents, inherits their cottage--but his property is in danger of being lost as well. When Mac returns, memories of happy times with two people he adored come flooding back--along with guilt that he didn't return in time to say goodbye to his beloved grandfather.
When Mac is reunited with Fabienne, their attempts to rescue their futures will plunge them into the darkness of the past--and the dangers of the present--in this powerful, suspenseful saga by the author of Resistance.
- GenresHistorical Fiction
313 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 16, 2022
About the author
Patricia Dixon
22 books174 followersPublished by Bloodhound Books
Author of -
Over My Shoulder, They Don't Know, The Secrets of Tenley House, Liars, #MeToo, Blame. The Other Woman, Coming Home, Resistance, Birthright, Venus Was Her Name, A Good Mother, Rosie and Ruby, Anna, Tilly, Grace, Destiny, The Complete Destiny Series Box Set, The Suspense Boxset.
All titles available on Amazon -
amazon.co.uk/-/e/B00I1YV2RM
Author of -
Over My Shoulder, They Don't Know, The Secrets of Tenley House, Liars, #MeToo, Blame. The Other Woman, Coming Home, Resistance, Birthright, Venus Was Her Name, A Good Mother, Rosie and Ruby, Anna, Tilly, Grace, Destiny, The Complete Destiny Series Box Set, The Suspense Boxset.
All titles available on Amazon -
amazon.co.uk/-/e/B00I1YV2RM
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
February 23, 2022
Now this came as a surprise! I am used to the authors psychological thrillers ( which are brilliant ) so to find this was a historical ( and modern day ) family saga was completely different, set mostly in France it deals with a joint ownership of a family chateaux which is oozing money away and how a fractured family intend to deal with the problem..we learn about the family history and how and why they have all become so wary of each other and the plans various members are hatching to keep or get rid of the chateaux ( depending on their view )
The characters are plentiful and range from the lovely yet naive Fabienne to the scurrilous Veronique (although I warmed quickly to her as the book progressed)
There is a lot to take in, dates, timelines, family trees but it is worth it as the book progresses into quite the ‘edge of your seat’ drama
I loved the descriptions of the chateaux and area and also of Paris ( where the family have an apartment ) and the parts covering the Nazi takeover were fascinating and chilling
Historical yet modern the book manages to do both as it tells a family story that turns into a tense thriller with a satisfying ending
I really enjoyed reading an author’s different genre to the norm I read and her obvious love of the areas mentioned
A fascinating read
9/10
5 Stars
The characters are plentiful and range from the lovely yet naive Fabienne to the scurrilous Veronique (although I warmed quickly to her as the book progressed)
There is a lot to take in, dates, timelines, family trees but it is worth it as the book progresses into quite the ‘edge of your seat’ drama
I loved the descriptions of the chateaux and area and also of Paris ( where the family have an apartment ) and the parts covering the Nazi takeover were fascinating and chilling
Historical yet modern the book manages to do both as it tells a family story that turns into a tense thriller with a satisfying ending
I really enjoyed reading an author’s different genre to the norm I read and her obvious love of the areas mentioned
A fascinating read
9/10
5 Stars
March 16, 2022
This was another fascinating story from Dixon, a writer who I have grown to admire over so many books. Being able to write romance, thriller, crime and historical novels shows great talent and I am amazed at how versatile Dixon’s skills are! Once more, this novel did not disappoint and I really enjoyed this fresh offering, with a mix of history, mystery and a bit of the supernatural too.
Admittedly, it did take me a little while to get immersed into the story. I think this was a result of the many characters that were introduced so early on: each chapter focuses on a different personality and I struggled to identify the different people. However, once this was mastered, I grew increasingly interested in the story. Dixon writes in such depth that the story-telling is detailed and well-crafted. This is reflected in the lengthy chapters but, when you are reading it, you barely notice how much time you have spent at the book! It is definitely a time sponge.
Over the story, I was fascinated by the different histories of the characters. It was not what I was expecting and I loved how Dixon develops each character for who they are. The back-stories were emotive and unpredictable, at the same time bridging connections between the various people. Whilst the story is founded on the Second World War, it is not the dominant factor of the narrative, so for those who aren’t a massive fan of historical novels, should find this book more palatable.
This book is about a fight for inheritance, which, from the beginning, is spread across father, daughter and second wife. However, there are other factors influencing this windfall, adding to the strained relationships within the family. Furthermore, when Mac arrives in France, this adds another dimension to the story as readers hear his tale of woe and misfortune. As a result, finances are the undercurrent of this narrative, but how the characters are driven by it is demonstrated by their history.
I liked the ever-present supernatural that haunts the story. With the inheritance of a rambling French chateau, I think the concept of ghosts is essential! It was an unexpected plot twist and one that added to the magic of the story, especially when combined with the theme of treasure. On the one hand there is the obvious inheritance that comes from property, but I liked how there were further layers to this; treasures that are undiscovered unless the right person comes along.
This is a slow-burner of a story but expertly crafted. It was an imaginative take on a scenario that has been seen so many times before: where fractured families quibble over money and inheritance. However, Dixon’s portrayal has a more historical, sinister twist, with developments I could not have foreseen. Another great read from this writer.
With thanks to Bloodhound books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Admittedly, it did take me a little while to get immersed into the story. I think this was a result of the many characters that were introduced so early on: each chapter focuses on a different personality and I struggled to identify the different people. However, once this was mastered, I grew increasingly interested in the story. Dixon writes in such depth that the story-telling is detailed and well-crafted. This is reflected in the lengthy chapters but, when you are reading it, you barely notice how much time you have spent at the book! It is definitely a time sponge.
Over the story, I was fascinated by the different histories of the characters. It was not what I was expecting and I loved how Dixon develops each character for who they are. The back-stories were emotive and unpredictable, at the same time bridging connections between the various people. Whilst the story is founded on the Second World War, it is not the dominant factor of the narrative, so for those who aren’t a massive fan of historical novels, should find this book more palatable.
This book is about a fight for inheritance, which, from the beginning, is spread across father, daughter and second wife. However, there are other factors influencing this windfall, adding to the strained relationships within the family. Furthermore, when Mac arrives in France, this adds another dimension to the story as readers hear his tale of woe and misfortune. As a result, finances are the undercurrent of this narrative, but how the characters are driven by it is demonstrated by their history.
I liked the ever-present supernatural that haunts the story. With the inheritance of a rambling French chateau, I think the concept of ghosts is essential! It was an unexpected plot twist and one that added to the magic of the story, especially when combined with the theme of treasure. On the one hand there is the obvious inheritance that comes from property, but I liked how there were further layers to this; treasures that are undiscovered unless the right person comes along.
This is a slow-burner of a story but expertly crafted. It was an imaginative take on a scenario that has been seen so many times before: where fractured families quibble over money and inheritance. However, Dixon’s portrayal has a more historical, sinister twist, with developments I could not have foreseen. Another great read from this writer.
With thanks to Bloodhound books for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 27, 2022
Be prepared to be whisked away to a run down chateau in the Loire, the Chateau de Chevalier in the present day.
Of course the chateau has not always been this way. It has seen more prosperous times when the avant-garde would descend for brilliant summers of glamorous events and carefree parties on manicured lawns. In the 1930’s the Duchess Ophelie was much admired by Picasso and given a painting as a token of his unrequited love. When war came to France, all the treasures of the house were commandeered by the army, some of the furniture was saved but the paintings were never to be returned.
In the present day, Fabienne is at war with her father, Hugo who has done nothing to keep the chateau in good repair and squandered any money from the estate on gambling and bad investments. Her step-mother, Veronique has no affinity to the chateau and would prefer to spend her time in Paris or better still in a villa on the coast. It becomes clear that she has a difficult relationship with her brother Rene who appears to have some hold over Hugo connected with secrets from the past.
The plot of Birthright has many layers and some wonderful characters. Fabienne is supported by her dear friend Antoinette who has become the housekeeper at Chateau de Chevalier. Antoinette’s great grandmother, Eglantine is now in a care home but has quite a tale to tell of times gone by, in her more lucid moments. When Mac, their English friend, arrives back in the village after inheriting his grandfather’s house there is a lot of catching up to do. Fabienne has poignant memories of a past summer with Mac when she thought that they would go forward in life together as a couple but it was not to be when they drifted apart.
The story is told from the viewpoint of a variety of characters and is woven around different times in the history of the chateau. The secrets of the past need to be discovered if the future of the Chateau de Chevalier is to be secured.
Birthright is a brilliant book written in Patricia Dixon’s inimitable style. She has the art of drawing you into the story immediately, making the surroundings and characters come to life.
I have enjoyed all of her books and I would describe this one as “the Destiny series meets Resistance”. To find out if you agree, you will need to read them all!
This book will stay in my heart for a very long time. It is definitely a 5* read and is one of my favourite books this year.
Of course the chateau has not always been this way. It has seen more prosperous times when the avant-garde would descend for brilliant summers of glamorous events and carefree parties on manicured lawns. In the 1930’s the Duchess Ophelie was much admired by Picasso and given a painting as a token of his unrequited love. When war came to France, all the treasures of the house were commandeered by the army, some of the furniture was saved but the paintings were never to be returned.
In the present day, Fabienne is at war with her father, Hugo who has done nothing to keep the chateau in good repair and squandered any money from the estate on gambling and bad investments. Her step-mother, Veronique has no affinity to the chateau and would prefer to spend her time in Paris or better still in a villa on the coast. It becomes clear that she has a difficult relationship with her brother Rene who appears to have some hold over Hugo connected with secrets from the past.
The plot of Birthright has many layers and some wonderful characters. Fabienne is supported by her dear friend Antoinette who has become the housekeeper at Chateau de Chevalier. Antoinette’s great grandmother, Eglantine is now in a care home but has quite a tale to tell of times gone by, in her more lucid moments. When Mac, their English friend, arrives back in the village after inheriting his grandfather’s house there is a lot of catching up to do. Fabienne has poignant memories of a past summer with Mac when she thought that they would go forward in life together as a couple but it was not to be when they drifted apart.
The story is told from the viewpoint of a variety of characters and is woven around different times in the history of the chateau. The secrets of the past need to be discovered if the future of the Chateau de Chevalier is to be secured.
Birthright is a brilliant book written in Patricia Dixon’s inimitable style. She has the art of drawing you into the story immediately, making the surroundings and characters come to life.
I have enjoyed all of her books and I would describe this one as “the Destiny series meets Resistance”. To find out if you agree, you will need to read them all!
This book will stay in my heart for a very long time. It is definitely a 5* read and is one of my favourite books this year.
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February 24, 2022Thank you to Bloodhound Books for this early ARC.
This is the second book I've read by this author and my first thought is why have I not read any more of her books.
I thought this was a beautifully written book that was both a pleasure and a joy to read. I loved that the book was told through individual characters, most I liked and a couple l loathed. The story moved from past to present times so effortlessly and flowed really well. I really liked the two main characters Fabienne and Mac and think the author has created such well rounded and realistic characters and I was rooting for them throughout. Fabienne is trying to save her heritage, the place she knows as home whilst her father opposes her and has squandered the family finances. I loved all the individual story threads here which all began to connect as the book progressed. I was drawn in from the first page to the last and I think the author connects so well with her readers through her characters, I could picture the scenes in my mind when reading. There were moments when the authors writing really pulled at my emotions, particularly towards the end where I found some parts to be a very emotional, heart wrenching and poignant read. I was a bit tearful at one point. This book is about family secrets and ties, romance, greed, control and above all loyalty. I genuinely can't fault this book, I loved everything about it and I was so glad to see a character get their come uppance.
Overall this is an absolute gem of a read, one I would really recommend if you like a bit of historical fiction and a bit of romance. For two days I was engrossed in this book and didn't want it to end. My best read for 2022 so far. 5 stars
This is the second book I've read by this author and my first thought is why have I not read any more of her books.
I thought this was a beautifully written book that was both a pleasure and a joy to read. I loved that the book was told through individual characters, most I liked and a couple l loathed. The story moved from past to present times so effortlessly and flowed really well. I really liked the two main characters Fabienne and Mac and think the author has created such well rounded and realistic characters and I was rooting for them throughout. Fabienne is trying to save her heritage, the place she knows as home whilst her father opposes her and has squandered the family finances. I loved all the individual story threads here which all began to connect as the book progressed. I was drawn in from the first page to the last and I think the author connects so well with her readers through her characters, I could picture the scenes in my mind when reading. There were moments when the authors writing really pulled at my emotions, particularly towards the end where I found some parts to be a very emotional, heart wrenching and poignant read. I was a bit tearful at one point. This book is about family secrets and ties, romance, greed, control and above all loyalty. I genuinely can't fault this book, I loved everything about it and I was so glad to see a character get their come uppance.
Overall this is an absolute gem of a read, one I would really recommend if you like a bit of historical fiction and a bit of romance. For two days I was engrossed in this book and didn't want it to end. My best read for 2022 so far. 5 stars
February 23, 2022
Such a beautifully written book-so much so that I wanted to step into the pages. Fabien is the heir to the Bombelle chateau and antiques-generations long ago decided that it should pass down the female line. She lost her brother and mother several years ago and her father has now remarried to someone Fabien sees as money grabbing- Veronique. The house needs much work doing on it as it has for many years- her father not seeming to care about it. Her plan of selling the Paris apartment where her father and step mother live to finance the changes to the house that would make it self funding are quickly rejected. Back in 1931 Ophelia receives a gift from an admirer- a painting she admired whilst with him, little knowing he would send it to her as a token of his affection for her. In present day Mac is back at his grandfather's house to sort and sell it- it having been left to him. It holds too many memories and having been conned out of his savings needs the money.
This is a stunner of a read. I can't say quite how much I loved this and how exquisitely it is written- the descriptions took me away to within the pages and off to France and beyond. Unlike many descriptive books where the description takes away from the plot ( in my opinion) this one only adds to it. I loved Fabien and Mac and wanted to throttle Hugo and Rene`. The description of Mac with his grandfather is brilliant beyond words and took me back to a treasured childhood memories as did some other scenes. Prepare to travel into the book and maybe into your memories. Exquisite, captivating, stunning <3
This is a stunner of a read. I can't say quite how much I loved this and how exquisitely it is written- the descriptions took me away to within the pages and off to France and beyond. Unlike many descriptive books where the description takes away from the plot ( in my opinion) this one only adds to it. I loved Fabien and Mac and wanted to throttle Hugo and Rene`. The description of Mac with his grandfather is brilliant beyond words and took me back to a treasured childhood memories as did some other scenes. Prepare to travel into the book and maybe into your memories. Exquisite, captivating, stunning <3
February 23, 2022
Oh my,what a wonderfully written and beautiful novel.
It made me smile in places but also made me cry a lot!
The novel is set mainly at the Chevalier Chàteau in France but also in Paris. Where the heir to the Bombelles ancestry falls to Fabienne the last female in line.
But all is not well at the Chàteau as Fabienne's father Hugo has not only spent the families fortune but married Veronique whom is part of the notorious Saber family.
Known for their association with the Nazi's during the occupation of France, Veronique's brother Rène has taken upon himself to destroy the Bombelles by any means necessary.
Fabienne must try and save the family home and with the help of her best friend Antoinette they have to find out the truth behind what happened in Chevalier before the Nazi's arrived.
The novel takes you back to Fabienne and Antoinette's childhood and this is where we first meet Mac a lovely British boy from Manchester who stays with his grandparents cottage every summer.
The book also takes you on a historical journey through the journals that both Fabienne and Antoinette discovered within the Chàteau. Of love, loss and the family being part of the La Resistance.
Birthright will stay with me for a very long time and is no doubt that it's one of my top ten reads of this year.
It made me smile in places but also made me cry a lot!
The novel is set mainly at the Chevalier Chàteau in France but also in Paris. Where the heir to the Bombelles ancestry falls to Fabienne the last female in line.
But all is not well at the Chàteau as Fabienne's father Hugo has not only spent the families fortune but married Veronique whom is part of the notorious Saber family.
Known for their association with the Nazi's during the occupation of France, Veronique's brother Rène has taken upon himself to destroy the Bombelles by any means necessary.
Fabienne must try and save the family home and with the help of her best friend Antoinette they have to find out the truth behind what happened in Chevalier before the Nazi's arrived.
The novel takes you back to Fabienne and Antoinette's childhood and this is where we first meet Mac a lovely British boy from Manchester who stays with his grandparents cottage every summer.
The book also takes you on a historical journey through the journals that both Fabienne and Antoinette discovered within the Chàteau. Of love, loss and the family being part of the La Resistance.
Birthright will stay with me for a very long time and is no doubt that it's one of my top ten reads of this year.
March 15, 2022
This book took me way outside of my comfort zone of crime fiction, albeit there were crimes, mystery, lies and deceit, it captured my attention from the start . Set in the Chateau de Chevalier, Loire, France the story goes back in time to WW2 and the French Resistance, which is a very interesting part of the plot. Moving on to present day , the ancestors are struggling to hold on to the Chateau. It didnt take me long to read this well written book. The descriptions, especially of the characters, both the good and the despicable , are so believable. There are some happenings in the book that I rarely read through choice, but in this book it is done extremely well, it suited the story .
March 15, 2022
I’m a big fan of Patricia Dixon but I just couldn’t immerse myself fully in this novel.
The plot moves from the past to the present which was original but I kept losing myself.
The story follows Fabienne who comes back to family chateau due to cash problems, which are made worse by her father turning a blind eye to the troubles.
The characters are well written and the setting is perfect but I just couldn’t quite get fully into the book.
Smashing author though and I’ll be eagerly awaiting the next novel!
The plot moves from the past to the present which was original but I kept losing myself.
The story follows Fabienne who comes back to family chateau due to cash problems, which are made worse by her father turning a blind eye to the troubles.
The characters are well written and the setting is perfect but I just couldn’t quite get fully into the book.
Smashing author though and I’ll be eagerly awaiting the next novel!
February 27, 2022
This book is amazing. It is quite frankly the best I have read from this author. She takes you on a journey effortlessly through the years. You meet new friends who will stay with you for ever and even meet some old ones. I laughed and I cried.
She had my attention from page one.
She had my attention from page one.
April 2, 2022
In 1931, an artist makes a gift to Ophélie, the Duchesse de Bombelle. A treasure that will remain hidden for decades. In the present day, Fabienne is the heir to the Chateau de Chevalier in Loire and is very proud of her birthright. Sadly the chateau is in dire need of a massive amount of attention and she despairs of how she will be able to raise the funds to do this. Her father, Hugo, is a terrible businessman and his second wife, Veronique, is determined that he should sell the chateau and buy her a luxury home far away. She is not a nice woman and is descended from a family hated in the area – the Sabers. During the war, most of the chateau’s treasures were looted by the Germans and Maire Saber sided with the invading Nazis but eventually got his just desserts, being hanged by La Resistance after the war. His family blamed the old Duc and have harboured a hatred of the Bombelles ever since. Veronique’s father himself was a monster who beat his wife and daughter, and after his death, her brother René did unspeakable things to his sister. After the shocking death of Fabienne’s mother and little brother, Fabienne was sent away to school, her relationship with her father became distant, and they are now at loggerheads after his second marriage. She runs the chateau with only help now from Antionette, her friend from childhood. Mac has also returned to the town, visiting the farmhouse he has inherited from his beloved grandfather. But Mac is in perilous financial straits after being cleaned out by woman scammer. His head tells him he must sell up but his heart thinks differently and when he meets up with Fabienne again after one wonderful summer together, he starts to change his mind.
So will Fabienne be able to save the chateau that she loves so dearly despite the plans of those scheming against her? Will Mac and Fabienne re-discover their love or are they destined to go separate ways again? All the answers lie hidden in the past and it’s up to the three friends to find them in time but little do they all realize there will be some terrible secrets revealed in the process.
This is a family saga spread over many years and full of rich and wonderfully layered characters, some eminently likeable such as Fabienne, Antoinette, Eglantine and Mac, some loathsome like Hugo and René, and Veronique who is sure to bring out so many mixed emotions in the reader. It is an engrossing and endearing story, full of richly painted scenery and brimming with love, hate, jealousy, betrayal, revenge, greed and true heroism. 5*
So will Fabienne be able to save the chateau that she loves so dearly despite the plans of those scheming against her? Will Mac and Fabienne re-discover their love or are they destined to go separate ways again? All the answers lie hidden in the past and it’s up to the three friends to find them in time but little do they all realize there will be some terrible secrets revealed in the process.
This is a family saga spread over many years and full of rich and wonderfully layered characters, some eminently likeable such as Fabienne, Antoinette, Eglantine and Mac, some loathsome like Hugo and René, and Veronique who is sure to bring out so many mixed emotions in the reader. It is an engrossing and endearing story, full of richly painted scenery and brimming with love, hate, jealousy, betrayal, revenge, greed and true heroism. 5*
March 26, 2022
Absolutely brilliant!
I absolutely loved this book with its wonderful cast of characters. It has everything I look for in a book, and is so well written, as is the norm from Trish Dixon, and set in France too , another plus for me. There was family history , there was intrigue, romance, the odd ghost, and most importantly, storytelling at its perfect best! I sincerely hope there will be a sequel. Loved it, Trish, thank you.
I absolutely loved this book with its wonderful cast of characters. It has everything I look for in a book, and is so well written, as is the norm from Trish Dixon, and set in France too , another plus for me. There was family history , there was intrigue, romance, the odd ghost, and most importantly, storytelling at its perfect best! I sincerely hope there will be a sequel. Loved it, Trish, thank you.
March 27, 2022
Wow.......Birthright by Patricia Dixon was a beautiful book. This is the first book I have read by Patricia and it just took my breath away. I was gripped from the very beginning till the end. I am glad the sun was out today as I sat in my garden reading it on my Kindle. A end to a perfect day when I finished it.
I highly recommend this wonderful book.
Big Thank you to Hannah on Bloodhound Books ARC Group
I highly recommend this wonderful book.
Big Thank you to Hannah on Bloodhound Books ARC Group
March 26, 2022
Patricia Dixon is one of those few authors where I will read any book she writes.
She has such a beautiful way with words, drawing you into her stories and making you feel like you are a part of them, and Birthright is no exception.
Filled with flawed but relatable characters, moral dilemmas and moments that pull you through the emotional wringer, this is a tale of lost love, family ties, betrayal, and finding the strength to change the course of your path.
I loved the sweet budding relationship between Fabienne and Mac, which served almost as the lightness to Veronique's dark tale. She is a great character and it is credit to the author that I despised, pitied and cheered her on at different points throughout the story.
If you haven't yet bought your copy, I highly recommend you do. It's a definite 5 star read for me.
She has such a beautiful way with words, drawing you into her stories and making you feel like you are a part of them, and Birthright is no exception.
Filled with flawed but relatable characters, moral dilemmas and moments that pull you through the emotional wringer, this is a tale of lost love, family ties, betrayal, and finding the strength to change the course of your path.
I loved the sweet budding relationship between Fabienne and Mac, which served almost as the lightness to Veronique's dark tale. She is a great character and it is credit to the author that I despised, pitied and cheered her on at different points throughout the story.
If you haven't yet bought your copy, I highly recommend you do. It's a definite 5 star read for me.
February 25, 2022
Such a wonderful book, if I could give a 5star plus I would. Telling the history of Chateau de Chevalier it draws you into the lives of Fabienne and her best friend, trying to resolve the mess that her greedy Father and step Mother have caused. When a childhood friend Mac returns to the area it becomes even more intriguing. The author tells the history of Fabiennes great Grandmere and her involvement with Picasso, the German invasion and how it all influenced the lives of the current generation. The characters are so well written that I became immersed in their stories, I laughed, sighed and sobbed at times.
Last year Patricia Dixon's Resistance was by far my favourite book, this one will also take some beating.
Last year Patricia Dixon's Resistance was by far my favourite book, this one will also take some beating.
February 27, 2022
Chateau de chevalier Loire France.
as we join Antoinette maid to Madamoiselle Fabiennede Bombelle to retain her birthrights, thats takes us an emotional remarkable inspirational journey through time, This book is so full of research from this author full of emotional, tragic and happy, that create your tummy to flutter, I dont know how would cope in the situations that occur in the chapters but it makes you just want to jump into the book with them.
This has to be one of the authors best novels so far with so much hard work gone into that is shown chapter after chapter, with a added bonus of a couple of known characters from a previous book , an incredible story just perfect in every way. I loved it.
as we join Antoinette maid to Madamoiselle Fabiennede Bombelle to retain her birthrights, thats takes us an emotional remarkable inspirational journey through time, This book is so full of research from this author full of emotional, tragic and happy, that create your tummy to flutter, I dont know how would cope in the situations that occur in the chapters but it makes you just want to jump into the book with them.
This has to be one of the authors best novels so far with so much hard work gone into that is shown chapter after chapter, with a added bonus of a couple of known characters from a previous book , an incredible story just perfect in every way. I loved it.
March 4, 2022
What a fabulous read!
Part romance, ghost story, historical, action and mystery all rolled into one, ‘Birthright’ has well rounded characters that pull you right into the story.
Time hopping between the war years, modern times and the early 1990’s, the story follows Fabienne as she desperately searched for the hidden treasure that will fund the restoration of her family’s chateau in the Loire valley. With characters that you live to hate and one that gradually gains your sympathy, the story moves to a high action finale in Paris.
Part romance, ghost story, historical, action and mystery all rolled into one, ‘Birthright’ has well rounded characters that pull you right into the story.
Time hopping between the war years, modern times and the early 1990’s, the story follows Fabienne as she desperately searched for the hidden treasure that will fund the restoration of her family’s chateau in the Loire valley. With characters that you live to hate and one that gradually gains your sympathy, the story moves to a high action finale in Paris.
March 14, 2022
I really enjoyed a previous book by Patricia Dixon so to me this was a must read and it did not disappoint!!
The book jumps from present to past throughout but as a reader you don’t get muddled as you always know when you are…
The story centres on a chateau in France and the main character Fabienne must do all she can to save it.
You read about the chateau in the present and past and will for Fabienne to do what she can
All the characters in this book are well written and highly recommend reading 😊
The book jumps from present to past throughout but as a reader you don’t get muddled as you always know when you are…
The story centres on a chateau in France and the main character Fabienne must do all she can to save it.
You read about the chateau in the present and past and will for Fabienne to do what she can
All the characters in this book are well written and highly recommend reading 😊
March 2, 2022
A beautifully written story and such wonderful characters are all within this amazing book.
Patricia Dixon writes with such great attention to detail that the chateau and surrounding country side are so beautifully described you are there in France with Fabienne, Mac and Antoinette.
I have read many of the authors books and have to say she keeps getting better and better,
Truly worthy of the 5 stars.
Patricia Dixon writes with such great attention to detail that the chateau and surrounding country side are so beautifully described you are there in France with Fabienne, Mac and Antoinette.
I have read many of the authors books and have to say she keeps getting better and better,
Truly worthy of the 5 stars.
March 3, 2022
Patricia Dixon never ceases to amaze me with the stories she weaves. I look forward to her new releases so much because I know without a doubt that I will love her next creation.
Birthright is no acception. I was drawn into the beautiful story right from the start. It's set in France, in a beautiful rundown Chateau that needs saving. There is evil and intrigue and plenty of unexpected twists.
As usual, I'm left feeling bereft because it's finished!
Birthright is no acception. I was drawn into the beautiful story right from the start. It's set in France, in a beautiful rundown Chateau that needs saving. There is evil and intrigue and plenty of unexpected twists.
As usual, I'm left feeling bereft because it's finished!
March 3, 2022
Oh my word. Patricia Dixon made me cry and I love her for it. Any author who can make you feel any emotion so strongly deserves 5 stars. The subtle reference to her book Resistance is superb and brings you closer to the story without detracting from it and you don't have to have read that book to understand the turmoil of the Chateau Chevalier. This book is about love, hate, revenge and triumph and how fate plays a part in your life. Bring me more books like this please
March 8, 2022
I received this book as an arc from Bloodhound books.
I have not read any of this author previously, so was unsure what to expect.
I was immediately drawn into the story, a historical 1931 and also modern day family saga . The characters were both believable and engaging.
It was beautifully written giving insights into France during the war and also the problems of running a chateau in modern day .
I am definitely going to read more from this author.
I have not read any of this author previously, so was unsure what to expect.
I was immediately drawn into the story, a historical 1931 and also modern day family saga . The characters were both believable and engaging.
It was beautifully written giving insights into France during the war and also the problems of running a chateau in modern day .
I am definitely going to read more from this author.
March 16, 2022
Who always draws you in with the beautiful way she describes the people and surroundings in her books.
This book is no difference but probably one of the most emotional books I read to date. You know you will be going through every emotion possible . The book is set mainly at the Chevalier Chàteau in the Loire in France .
It takes you through a historical ww2 to this day family saga /drama.
Beautifully written and totally absorbing, a very deserving 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book is no difference but probably one of the most emotional books I read to date. You know you will be going through every emotion possible . The book is set mainly at the Chevalier Chàteau in the Loire in France .
It takes you through a historical ww2 to this day family saga /drama.
Beautifully written and totally absorbing, a very deserving 5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
March 16, 2022
This is a beautiful book set in France. It is a family saga that is set both in the past and the modern day. The author writers so cleverly that you actually feel as though you are right there. I was immediately drawn in and didn't want to put it down. I'm amazed at how multi talented the author is in writing in different genres.
This book is highly recommended by me which is a first as I'm not usually a big fan if historical fiction.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for this advance read.
This book is highly recommended by me which is a first as I'm not usually a big fan if historical fiction.
Thanks to Bloodhound Books for this advance read.
March 17, 2022
Brilliant writing and imagination by the author who never ceases to have a hold on you and your imagination. I can feel the scenery and the touch of the characters.
I love the different POV of the characters, and Patricia always manages to get it just right.
I felt so many emotions whilst reading this book. I cried, I got angry and I laughed out loud. I also loved that some characters from Resistance got a mention too even though this is a stand alone book.
I love the different POV of the characters, and Patricia always manages to get it just right.
I felt so many emotions whilst reading this book. I cried, I got angry and I laughed out loud. I also loved that some characters from Resistance got a mention too even though this is a stand alone book.
March 19, 2022
Birthright by Patricia Dixon is an amazing book and beautifully written. It will stay with me for some time. Great characters – some you love and some you dislike but they all play their part. There are many facets to this book. It is about determination, love, friendship but also abuse and revenge. The research is meticulous. It is such an engaging story. I even cried at times. Highly recommended.
March 12, 2022
The Chateau de Chevalier is under threat as the heiress Fabienne returns from her studies in London and tries to save her home. Mac her English childhood friend returns to France to settle his grandparents affairs. As they attempt to save the Chateau they uncover family secrets but put their lives in danger. A brilliant story of love and betrayal
March 7, 2022
Well written novel told through different characters across a span of years. A lot of threads to the plot which all join up in the end! Recommended.
I received a free copy of this book through ARC Bloodhound Books - thanks! I have given an honest review.
I received a free copy of this book through ARC Bloodhound Books - thanks! I have given an honest review.
March 11, 2022
Thank you bloodhound ARC. New author to me. Set in France Post pandemic but referencing events from ww2. This is a historical mystery. Enjoyable read, likeable main characters. Would recommend for a good read.
March 13, 2022
This book for me started slowly but once I got into it I couldn’t put it down.
The book tells the story of two families at war through different generations.
I found the characters very believable. It is often how families are.
Thank you to the author for my advance copy of this book.
The book tells the story of two families at war through different generations.
I found the characters very believable. It is often how families are.
Thank you to the author for my advance copy of this book.
March 17, 2022
A beautiful sweeping tale set in France in a chateau. That sentence alone covers all for me.
Though the tale is obviously deeper than that and the characters take you with them into their lives.
Seriously good story.
Though the tale is obviously deeper than that and the characters take you with them into their lives.
Seriously good story.
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