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The Hotel on the Riviera
By the sapphire blue waters of the French Riviera, a decades-long secret is about to be revealed…
Wayward Greek heiress, Ariana Theodosis, inherits the Hotel du Soleil as part of a mysterious legacy. Captivated by its faded glamour, she hopes it offers her the chance to start again.
Hotelier Gabriel du Lac’s family have owned the hotel for decades – and he has no intention of giving it up for a beautiful stranger.
Madame du Lac has watched the rich and famous pass through the doors of the hotel for almost half a century, and she has kept its secrets too.
As the past finally catches up with them all, will this summer reveal a forgotten secret, and change their lives forever…?
Wayward Greek heiress, Ariana Theodosis, inherits the Hotel du Soleil as part of a mysterious legacy. Captivated by its faded glamour, she hopes it offers her the chance to start again.
Hotelier Gabriel du Lac’s family have owned the hotel for decades – and he has no intention of giving it up for a beautiful stranger.
Madame du Lac has watched the rich and famous pass through the doors of the hotel for almost half a century, and she has kept its secrets too.
As the past finally catches up with them all, will this summer reveal a forgotten secret, and change their lives forever…?
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 21, 2022
340 people are currently reading
774 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews
July 16, 2022
This is either your genre or it’s not, sadly it’s not mine, so my review reflects that fact. I read Carol Kirkwood’s first book as an ARC and when I was offered this one, I just accepted without going back and reading my review for the first one forgetting that I had felt the same way about the first one.
It’s pure, perfect romance, wonderful setting, beautiful, privileged, slim, perfect people. You know who’s going to fall for whom and there’s no great surprises. Of course, there are some ‘bad guys’ but they are the ‘less perfect ones’. I finished the book because I said I would, but it’s just not my ‘cup of tea’.
However, if your ‘cup of tea; is simple, beautiful escapism and a peak into how the other half live - fairy tale style…….you will adore it and gobble it up! I’m just more of a realist and like the main characters to be flawed and ‘less than perfect’ which frankly we all are!
If you’re a Mills & Boon fan, then don’t hesitate.
My thanks go to Carol Kirkwood, Harper Collins & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy, however, (hardly needs saying) this review is my 100% honest opinion.
It’s pure, perfect romance, wonderful setting, beautiful, privileged, slim, perfect people. You know who’s going to fall for whom and there’s no great surprises. Of course, there are some ‘bad guys’ but they are the ‘less perfect ones’. I finished the book because I said I would, but it’s just not my ‘cup of tea’.
However, if your ‘cup of tea; is simple, beautiful escapism and a peak into how the other half live - fairy tale style…….you will adore it and gobble it up! I’m just more of a realist and like the main characters to be flawed and ‘less than perfect’ which frankly we all are!
If you’re a Mills & Boon fan, then don’t hesitate.
My thanks go to Carol Kirkwood, Harper Collins & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy, however, (hardly needs saying) this review is my 100% honest opinion.
February 2, 2023
reads like a wattpad story with not enough smut
August 8, 2022
Escape to the glorious French Riviera with the delightful read from Kirkwood. Seeing the success of her debut novel, (which I inadvertently missed and it is now sitting on my mental ‘To Be Read’ pile,) I was excited to get a taste of stardom and wealth that you only see on the silver screen.
Feeling immersed in the culture of Cannes, I loved how Kirkwood brings this unattainable scene alive, albeit there are a few too many name-drops and extravagant labels mentioned for my liking. I am sure the writer could have reduced this slightly, as at times it felt like I was reading a list of celebrities in terms of actors, directors and designers. There is a broad cast of characters in this story and I enjoyed how they are gradually pulled together, with the hotel being at the centre of this secretive tale.
From wealthy actors in a rocky relationship to a struggling dancer in the backstreets of Cannes, Kirkwood captures the colourful spectrum of people living in a place synonymous to wealth and riches. However, as the characters demonstrate, regardless of background, there is not a true feeling of contentment and I found it interesting to observe how the different people all strive for a better life.
At first I did not think I would like Ariana and Gabriel’s characters. Yet, as they work together around the hotel, I enjoyed watching their dynamism and determination. They inevitably clash and feud but I think it reflects their fiery personalities and their upbringing. Furthermore, Ariana seems to evolve the most in the story as she moves from being a spoilt brat from LA, trying to be recognised as an actress, to a developing hotelier that acknowledges she does not need to be the centre of attention to attain success. This definitely made her a more likeable character as the story progresses.
The theme of secrets runs throughout this novel and I liked how so many characters have hidden truths and their reasons for not being completely honest. The most secretive of all is Gabriel’s mother and I thought it quite spooky that she shuts herself off from the world, living alone at the top of the hotel. Reminiscent of Miss Haversham, Kirkwood keeps readers guessing for most of the novel about the reasons behind Madame du Lac’s isolation and I think this made me just read the book even faster – I was desperate to know the truth about her seclusion and the history of the hotel.
I did enjoy this summery read and the final chapters felt explosive and fast-paced. However, I do think further flashbacks would have made this narrative even more immersive. There are frequent passing references to the hotel in its prime and I think it would have been fantastic to read scenes that reflected this hey-day period, before the hotel fell into neglect. Although there are some flashbacks from Madame du Lac, I think Kirkwood could have developed her character further by including more clues about her marriage with her husband and how the hotel sadly deteriorated.
So, if you are in the mood for the glitz and glamour of Cannes but can’t quite afford it, Kirkwood provides you with your golden ticket. Regardless of background, we all have our secrets, it’s just a matter of time before they are revealed.
With thanks to Harper Collins and Random Things for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Feeling immersed in the culture of Cannes, I loved how Kirkwood brings this unattainable scene alive, albeit there are a few too many name-drops and extravagant labels mentioned for my liking. I am sure the writer could have reduced this slightly, as at times it felt like I was reading a list of celebrities in terms of actors, directors and designers. There is a broad cast of characters in this story and I enjoyed how they are gradually pulled together, with the hotel being at the centre of this secretive tale.
From wealthy actors in a rocky relationship to a struggling dancer in the backstreets of Cannes, Kirkwood captures the colourful spectrum of people living in a place synonymous to wealth and riches. However, as the characters demonstrate, regardless of background, there is not a true feeling of contentment and I found it interesting to observe how the different people all strive for a better life.
At first I did not think I would like Ariana and Gabriel’s characters. Yet, as they work together around the hotel, I enjoyed watching their dynamism and determination. They inevitably clash and feud but I think it reflects their fiery personalities and their upbringing. Furthermore, Ariana seems to evolve the most in the story as she moves from being a spoilt brat from LA, trying to be recognised as an actress, to a developing hotelier that acknowledges she does not need to be the centre of attention to attain success. This definitely made her a more likeable character as the story progresses.
The theme of secrets runs throughout this novel and I liked how so many characters have hidden truths and their reasons for not being completely honest. The most secretive of all is Gabriel’s mother and I thought it quite spooky that she shuts herself off from the world, living alone at the top of the hotel. Reminiscent of Miss Haversham, Kirkwood keeps readers guessing for most of the novel about the reasons behind Madame du Lac’s isolation and I think this made me just read the book even faster – I was desperate to know the truth about her seclusion and the history of the hotel.
I did enjoy this summery read and the final chapters felt explosive and fast-paced. However, I do think further flashbacks would have made this narrative even more immersive. There are frequent passing references to the hotel in its prime and I think it would have been fantastic to read scenes that reflected this hey-day period, before the hotel fell into neglect. Although there are some flashbacks from Madame du Lac, I think Kirkwood could have developed her character further by including more clues about her marriage with her husband and how the hotel sadly deteriorated.
So, if you are in the mood for the glitz and glamour of Cannes but can’t quite afford it, Kirkwood provides you with your golden ticket. Regardless of background, we all have our secrets, it’s just a matter of time before they are revealed.
With thanks to Harper Collins and Random Things for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 26, 2022
This was such a disappointing book. I loved her first one and was excited to read her latest novel but, it just wasn’t as good. Firstly their were far too many characters for me and it just confused me. Also, I didn’t find the story that interesting. It rambled on and didn’t really take offf. That type of story has been done many times before and I just got bored. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
June 11, 2023
A sun kissed trip to the Mediterranean, I adored the descriptions of Cannes in particular, and the story slotted together perfectly.
September 22, 2022
No substance
I wanted my next read to be light and fluffy, so in that regard I should have given this book 5 stars, but with shallow characters and an even shallower plot, 2 stars is more than generous.
I wanted my next read to be light and fluffy, so in that regard I should have given this book 5 stars, but with shallow characters and an even shallower plot, 2 stars is more than generous.
February 5, 2023
This is the 2nd of Carol's books that I've read. Think I enjoyed this one more than the 1st as it seemed to flow better. Although this is a stand-alone book, there were some crossovers with the characters from the "Under the Greek Moon" This is set on the French Riviera but also takes you to Hollywood & the Greek island of Ithos. The story line was enjoyable with many twists & turns and you couldn't entirely assume what the outcome would be. Glad it ended how it did though.
May 22, 2022
As soon as I saw this book on Netgalley I knew I had to have it! I really enjoyed Carol Kirkwood's first book and I hoped this one would be as good. In fact it was even better! I was pleasantly suprised that the Theodosis family popped up again and that other family faces and places were in this latest novel.
Carol is amazing at setting the scene, and you are transported to the French Riviera. The book is dripping with glamour and rich and famous stars are scattered throughout the book. The passion between Ariana and Gabriel is sizzling.
I raced through this book in a weekend and I didnt want it to end. Thoroughly recommended.
Carol is amazing at setting the scene, and you are transported to the French Riviera. The book is dripping with glamour and rich and famous stars are scattered throughout the book. The passion between Ariana and Gabriel is sizzling.
I raced through this book in a weekend and I didnt want it to end. Thoroughly recommended.
June 12, 2023
I was so surprised by how much I enjoyed this book! Totally attached to Ariana - she was relatable and well fleshed out as a character. The setting was perfect and addictive. So glad I found this.
June 30, 2022
A good summer beach read. If you're looking for a light read without too much depth then this is an ideal book. I enjoyed her debut Under A Greek Moon, although found the constant designer name dropping a little unnecessary. Sadly The Hotel on the Riviera follows this pattern, and, of course, everyone is good looking - except the villain! The plot felt a little thin and sometimes predictable - I knew straight away who Jonny's father must be - but everything tied in well at the end..
Many thanks to Harper Collins, Carol Kirkwood, Netgalley for an ARC of The Hotel on the Riviera in exchange for an honest review.
Many thanks to Harper Collins, Carol Kirkwood, Netgalley for an ARC of The Hotel on the Riviera in exchange for an honest review.
April 2, 2023
I need to stop listening to the recommendations of the friend who recommended me this because I keep not liking the books she's recommended in recent years, they're always mediocre (she did introduce me to some good murder mystery series when we were younger though). Also I haven't much luck with books written by popular British TV stars, apart from the Richard Osman The Thursday Murder Club series which are amazing. I was not too keen on Anton du Beke's One Enchanted Evening though, but I preferred it to this. This was just boring, had too many characters, none of which I could connect too. The only thing I liked was the outfit descriptions and the fact it was set in 2009, rather than the boring present day.
August 15, 2022
Set in the South of France, Carol Kirkwood's second story follows her début, Under a Greek Moon, and it is a compelling read full of glamour. Ariana Theodosis inherits the Hotel du Soleil on the French Riviera after the death of her beloved grandmother, but she is not alone in believing she is the owner. Gabriel du Lac, the current hotelier is still in residence there.
The novel has a prominent theme running throughout of secrets and there is also a lot of glitz and stardom. The characterisation is really strong although at first, I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy the main characters. However, they grew on me and I enjoyed their dynamism. The tale also contains some terrific scene setting from the author and I really felt as though I was present in the locale. Well worth a look, I have been inspired to read Under a Greek Moon if time allows.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from HarperCollins via NetGalley and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
The novel has a prominent theme running throughout of secrets and there is also a lot of glitz and stardom. The characterisation is really strong although at first, I wasn't sure if I was going to enjoy the main characters. However, they grew on me and I enjoyed their dynamism. The tale also contains some terrific scene setting from the author and I really felt as though I was present in the locale. Well worth a look, I have been inspired to read Under a Greek Moon if time allows.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from HarperCollins via NetGalley and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
July 22, 2022
When party animal Ariana’s grandmother passes away she is on a mission to find out why she has left her a hotel in the Cannes as it definitely hasn’t really been acknowledged as being in her family.
Whereas Gabriel and his family has been running it for over two decades and wants to take it over however he is trying to figure out why it wasn’t left to his own family.
The novel’s characters contains the elegant and the rich. No no, it is not that superficial. They are smart as well just remember.
It does come across as a bit snobby. The novel is written in a way where it goes back and forth between here and then of multiple people from both the present and the past.
Unlike most novels with multiple narratives, this one is more difficult to follow. In one paragraph you are reading about the present of Ariana. The next you are reading about Gabriel’s deceased family. There are no breaks in the writing at all to let you know instead you have to use your mind and memory to recap this every few paragraphs which is VERY annoying.
We are smart readers yes however when you have to do something like that constantly throughout then it makes for poor reading as novels should be clear and guided instead of going what some would call ‘wish-washy’.
Although it did have an interesting plot and Ariana and Gabriel’s relationship storyline has that entire love-hate thing going on which is good if you do not want too much of a captivating story of proper lust or plot lines. It did have an element of mystery with what did she exactly do ‘That Night’. Although for the over average intelligence you can tell where that story line was going. It didn’t impress me too much sadly but I do not detest it either.
Thank you to the publishers for sending me this in exchange for my honest review.
Whereas Gabriel and his family has been running it for over two decades and wants to take it over however he is trying to figure out why it wasn’t left to his own family.
The novel’s characters contains the elegant and the rich. No no, it is not that superficial. They are smart as well just remember.
It does come across as a bit snobby. The novel is written in a way where it goes back and forth between here and then of multiple people from both the present and the past.
Unlike most novels with multiple narratives, this one is more difficult to follow. In one paragraph you are reading about the present of Ariana. The next you are reading about Gabriel’s deceased family. There are no breaks in the writing at all to let you know instead you have to use your mind and memory to recap this every few paragraphs which is VERY annoying.
We are smart readers yes however when you have to do something like that constantly throughout then it makes for poor reading as novels should be clear and guided instead of going what some would call ‘wish-washy’.
Although it did have an interesting plot and Ariana and Gabriel’s relationship storyline has that entire love-hate thing going on which is good if you do not want too much of a captivating story of proper lust or plot lines. It did have an element of mystery with what did she exactly do ‘That Night’. Although for the over average intelligence you can tell where that story line was going. It didn’t impress me too much sadly but I do not detest it either.
Thank you to the publishers for sending me this in exchange for my honest review.
November 24, 2022
A cute wee break from my usual crime reads.
A little Mills and Boon type book for me where 2 people have competition for wanting the hotel they inherit or think they own. Sparks fly of course so good things are on the cards. Just what is the secret that the hotel is hiding? What happened back in the day to warrant why mumsie locks herself away in her room and darkly ever comes out? Mmm read this book to find out more.
I won this book through a nomiation from a friend on FB and am so delighted that Carol herself signed my copy. I will be keeping this book :0) thank you also to Harper Collins
A little Mills and Boon type book for me where 2 people have competition for wanting the hotel they inherit or think they own. Sparks fly of course so good things are on the cards. Just what is the secret that the hotel is hiding? What happened back in the day to warrant why mumsie locks herself away in her room and darkly ever comes out? Mmm read this book to find out more.
I won this book through a nomiation from a friend on FB and am so delighted that Carol herself signed my copy. I will be keeping this book :0) thank you also to Harper Collins
August 28, 2024
the standard of beauty for women in the-hotel-on-the-riviera-literary-universe is basically skinny yet hourglass figure, fake boob hair nail bad, and demure yet provocative (literally a direct quote from the book: "The dress was demure yet provocative all at the same time." Ch 14), and for men just be a hot playboy turned lovesick sucker
However, I will add that I came for the descriptions and overall vibe of the French Riviera, and Ms. Kirkwood delivered with the late 2000's Cannes Film Festival setting and celebrities/rich people doing whatever they want storyline
However, I will add that I came for the descriptions and overall vibe of the French Riviera, and Ms. Kirkwood delivered with the late 2000's Cannes Film Festival setting and celebrities/rich people doing whatever they want storyline
September 27, 2024
really this deserves 2* for the baaaad writing but i'm ngl i got into it by the end (and read it quickly!) so that bumps it up to 3
i enjoyed the south of france references, esp today reading it in èze, st jean cap ferrat etc ! i did not enjoy how about 50% of the word count was the author describing how attractive all the characters are. i never want to see the word hourglass again
i enjoyed the south of france references, esp today reading it in èze, st jean cap ferrat etc ! i did not enjoy how about 50% of the word count was the author describing how attractive all the characters are. i never want to see the word hourglass again
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 2, 2026
I loved this romantic fiction read. It took me to read the first 20 percent to become engaged but it was so worthwhile. Carol captured the bear of Cannes and the film festival. The characters developed throughout the read. My next book is a definite Carol read. As you guess, very highly recommend!
April 27, 2025
I read this book as I was taking a trip to the French Riviera and it seemed fitting. The book was okay. It’s not my usual nor my favourite genre, had it been I’d have probably enjoyed it a lot more. At first I hated most of the characters but by the end you really connect with them. Not a bad read.
December 4, 2022
Carol's books never fail to captivate. Although this book is set on the French Riviera, I was pleased that it touches down briefly in my beloved Greece. Once again, a fascinating yet heart-breaking story of how the other half live - and how they can suffer the same heartbreak as everyone else. An entertaining read.
May 7, 2023
I read it hoping for some art deco feels in the architecture and something with a bit more substance than what I read. The writing felt clunky and there were too many cliches and name dropping and actresses with perfect figures and perfect dresses. Just didn’t like it.
June 1, 2024
Really good book - great storyline and characters!
August 3, 2023
Finished this book in 3 days could not put it down all of carol kirkwood books have been fantastic
July 22, 2022
I've never really followed movie stars and other such people so it surprised me that I enjoyed this book so much. It might be a touch unrealistic, although nowadays I wouldn't be surprised at anything that happens, but there is a warmth and depth to it that drew me in. It also helped that is normal "little people" were included with Estee, a dancer in a cheap nightclub getting in the act, as well as the rich like Ariana and Gabriel and famous like Robbie and Liz. Overall a great book to lose yourself in the sunny south of France and that I devoured in a day.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
August 27, 2022
An easy escape to an entirely different world.
Carol Kirkwood writes in a way you’re instantly taken to the French Riviera and you never want to leave.
A book you can easily finish in a day but will stay with you for a long time.
Carol Kirkwood writes in a way you’re instantly taken to the French Riviera and you never want to leave.
A book you can easily finish in a day but will stay with you for a long time.
May 22, 2024
Great read, very enjoyable
July 28, 2022
Another wonderful read from Carol Kirkwood, thanks to NetGalley for allowing me to read this.
The Hotel on the Riviera continues the story of the Theodosis family from Under a Greek Moon, although you don’t have to have read this first book to enjoy this book.
Wild child heiress Ariana Theodosis inherits the Hotel du Soleil on the French Riviera and an exquisite diamond ring from her grandmother, however no one in the family knew that she owned either of these items and what their back story was.
Ariana is a bit jaded by her LA lifestyle and is trying to escape a scandal, so heads off to explore her inheritance.
On arrival, the current occupiers are shocked to learn of the new owner, all except Madam du Lac, who has lived in the hotel for many years and once owned it with her late husband.
As the story unfolds both families learn secrets from the past and new friendships are made for the future.
This book transports you to the glamour and beauty of the Côte d’Azur, where we meet new and old characters who are all at turning points in their lives.
A wonderful summer read and I’m now hoping there are more stories to come from the Theodosis family.
The Hotel on the Riviera continues the story of the Theodosis family from Under a Greek Moon, although you don’t have to have read this first book to enjoy this book.
Wild child heiress Ariana Theodosis inherits the Hotel du Soleil on the French Riviera and an exquisite diamond ring from her grandmother, however no one in the family knew that she owned either of these items and what their back story was.
Ariana is a bit jaded by her LA lifestyle and is trying to escape a scandal, so heads off to explore her inheritance.
On arrival, the current occupiers are shocked to learn of the new owner, all except Madam du Lac, who has lived in the hotel for many years and once owned it with her late husband.
As the story unfolds both families learn secrets from the past and new friendships are made for the future.
This book transports you to the glamour and beauty of the Côte d’Azur, where we meet new and old characters who are all at turning points in their lives.
A wonderful summer read and I’m now hoping there are more stories to come from the Theodosis family.
September 25, 2022
DNF. 11% and I gave up.
No plot spoilers
I gave up at 11%. There is way too much name dropping.
I'm all for good scene setting, but having designer names dropped into every paragraph became irritating.
Then there is the almost constant change in time and place as the backstory is set.
I gave up, it just didn't hold my attention enough to continue.
The characterisation is okay, nothing in depth so not possible to form a connection.
The plotline is obvious even at 11%, so I imagine it to be predictable.
The writing style is a little stilted, almost as if it was written in the 50's.
I wanted to like the book, I adore the author, but I need a book to entertain me and this just didn't.
I would recommend potential readers read the sample before purchasing.
No plot spoilers
I gave up at 11%. There is way too much name dropping.
I'm all for good scene setting, but having designer names dropped into every paragraph became irritating.
Then there is the almost constant change in time and place as the backstory is set.
I gave up, it just didn't hold my attention enough to continue.
The characterisation is okay, nothing in depth so not possible to form a connection.
The plotline is obvious even at 11%, so I imagine it to be predictable.
The writing style is a little stilted, almost as if it was written in the 50's.
I wanted to like the book, I adore the author, but I need a book to entertain me and this just didn't.
I would recommend potential readers read the sample before purchasing.
March 1, 2025
Dire, I had to force myself to read it as it was our book club book but I kept putting it down as I disliked it so much. It was very cliched and at one point a character talks of standing by her man when she has only been on three dates with him and throughout that time she was still sleeping with her previous boyfriend. The main character talks of leaving her shallow life behind and then proceeds to be just as shallow. I like a good romance - this wasn’t. I like a good mystery - this wasn’t. The author comes across on tv as a lovely positive person but I will avoid future books written by her.
August 7, 2022
A light summery read.
Pure escapism with apparently perfect characters in a setting filled with richness.
The story is predictable yet comforting in its prose.
It is filled with romance and drama with some secrets.
A lot of name-dropping, I skim read it to get to juicy parts.
An entertaining light romance for those who like a change of pace and genre
Pure escapism with apparently perfect characters in a setting filled with richness.
The story is predictable yet comforting in its prose.
It is filled with romance and drama with some secrets.
A lot of name-dropping, I skim read it to get to juicy parts.
An entertaining light romance for those who like a change of pace and genre
September 24, 2023
Shallow Chick-Lit
The plot would have been quite good but spoiled by the poorly written text. The constant name-dropping was irritating and unnecessary and the major event would not have been achievable given the time limits. It was shallow and frustrating and only the desire to know how the plot played out kept me reading beyond chapter 3.
The plot would have been quite good but spoiled by the poorly written text. The constant name-dropping was irritating and unnecessary and the major event would not have been achievable given the time limits. It was shallow and frustrating and only the desire to know how the plot played out kept me reading beyond chapter 3.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 181 reviews