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One French Summer
The uplifting escapist read from the author of Top 10 bestseller, A Year at the French Farmhouse. It was just supposed to be a holiday, but could it become the second chance she didn't know she needed...?
Life isn’t quite going as planned for Katy. With her only daughter living in Australia and a husband who has asked for a break, she is suddenly at a loss.
Her best friends, Sam, Vicky and Ivy have always been there for her through thick and thin and they’re not about to leave her all alone now. Whisking her away to glorious France for a last minute retreat is the perfect escape, and just what Katy needs to get her life back under control.
As Katy unwinds in the beautiful French countryside, surrounded by her friends, the pain of her past slowly begins to melt away under the warm summer sun. Will this reset give Katy a new lease on life and help her win back her husband? Or could there be a new love on the horizon where she least expects it?
Escape to the French countryside this summer with top 10 bestseller Gillian Harvey, for the perfect uplifting second chances romance.
Praise for One French Summer
'As delightful as it is moving – a true gem of a novel... enchanting, wise and wonderfully uplifting.' Isabelle Broom
'Uplifting, feel-good and hilarious... for anyone who has ever had their heart broken. This is escapism at its best. Every page felt like I was on holiday with my best friends. Gillian has done it again!' Tim Ewins
'A funny, moving and wonderful story about love and second chances... A hymn to friendship... I was cheering Katy on from the very first page.' Nicola Gill
Life isn’t quite going as planned for Katy. With her only daughter living in Australia and a husband who has asked for a break, she is suddenly at a loss.
Her best friends, Sam, Vicky and Ivy have always been there for her through thick and thin and they’re not about to leave her all alone now. Whisking her away to glorious France for a last minute retreat is the perfect escape, and just what Katy needs to get her life back under control.
As Katy unwinds in the beautiful French countryside, surrounded by her friends, the pain of her past slowly begins to melt away under the warm summer sun. Will this reset give Katy a new lease on life and help her win back her husband? Or could there be a new love on the horizon where she least expects it?
Escape to the French countryside this summer with top 10 bestseller Gillian Harvey, for the perfect uplifting second chances romance.
Praise for One French Summer
'As delightful as it is moving – a true gem of a novel... enchanting, wise and wonderfully uplifting.' Isabelle Broom
'Uplifting, feel-good and hilarious... for anyone who has ever had their heart broken. This is escapism at its best. Every page felt like I was on holiday with my best friends. Gillian has done it again!' Tim Ewins
'A funny, moving and wonderful story about love and second chances... A hymn to friendship... I was cheering Katy on from the very first page.' Nicola Gill
282 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 14, 2023
790 people are currently reading
502 people want to read
About the author
Gillian Harvey
12 books310 followersI'm a British author and freelance writer, currently living in Norfolk, England with my husband and 5 children. I write contemporary, uplifting and emotive fiction, often set in France where I lived for 14 years.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
June 5, 2023
Setting: yes. Protagonist: no. I fell in love with the French setting and thought that Harvey portrays it so beautifully that I could imagine myself at the artists’ retreat. On the other hand, I thought Katy was an insipid fool who could not see how much she was being played.
Katy is taken to France by her teacher friends during the August holidays. Having been on a trial separation from her husband of twenty years, Katy is reeling from the news that this trial separation is a permanent separation – and Will appears to have moved on. I sympathised with Katy because I could understand her fears about moving on from something she has spent two decades on but, on the other hand, thought that she was missing some really key signs that this was not a forever-marriage. Even Katy’s friends have spotted these from the outside of Katy’s bubble and, during what is supposed to be a relaxing night out, soon becomes fraught with confrontation. I applauded Katy’s friends for speaking their minds but wished that Katy could see the truth for herself.
Therefore, this novel is mostly about Katy accepting that life is not over and she can use this as an opportunity to be herself once more. Conversations with her daughter, currently in Australia, don’t do much for Katy’s self-esteem and I recognised how lonely this character was feeling. Yet, I do feel she constantly held herself back, not fully embracing this French break for what it could be. Eventually this does change, and I was relieved to see a different side to Katy’s character. Yet, one event makes things fall backwards and I was frustrated again by Katy’s behaviour.
I liked how Harvey reveals some of the truths in the latter half of the novel. Indeed, the final quarter of the book felt the most enjoyable as Katy has fully evolved into a more likeable character and there were some unexpected plot developments too. Unfortunately, I thought the rest of the book to be too predictable and echoes of similar stories I have read in the past.
If you are after a bit of escapism, this book will surely take you successfully to the French countryside. The retreat sounds incredibly relaxing, even if I don’t have any artistic bones in my body! I also enjoyed seeing how friendship underpins the narrative and I don’t think Katy realised herself how much she needed her friends and how lucky she was to have such a strong support network. They are a good bunch who recognised when Katy was struggling, hence the surprise trip to France.
Overall, this was a pleasant read but I found it quite underwhelming. Katy’s indecisiveness and inability to see the flaws of her marriage really grated on me, and I don’t think the story held enough surprises to keep me fully interested.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Katy is taken to France by her teacher friends during the August holidays. Having been on a trial separation from her husband of twenty years, Katy is reeling from the news that this trial separation is a permanent separation – and Will appears to have moved on. I sympathised with Katy because I could understand her fears about moving on from something she has spent two decades on but, on the other hand, thought that she was missing some really key signs that this was not a forever-marriage. Even Katy’s friends have spotted these from the outside of Katy’s bubble and, during what is supposed to be a relaxing night out, soon becomes fraught with confrontation. I applauded Katy’s friends for speaking their minds but wished that Katy could see the truth for herself.
Therefore, this novel is mostly about Katy accepting that life is not over and she can use this as an opportunity to be herself once more. Conversations with her daughter, currently in Australia, don’t do much for Katy’s self-esteem and I recognised how lonely this character was feeling. Yet, I do feel she constantly held herself back, not fully embracing this French break for what it could be. Eventually this does change, and I was relieved to see a different side to Katy’s character. Yet, one event makes things fall backwards and I was frustrated again by Katy’s behaviour.
I liked how Harvey reveals some of the truths in the latter half of the novel. Indeed, the final quarter of the book felt the most enjoyable as Katy has fully evolved into a more likeable character and there were some unexpected plot developments too. Unfortunately, I thought the rest of the book to be too predictable and echoes of similar stories I have read in the past.
If you are after a bit of escapism, this book will surely take you successfully to the French countryside. The retreat sounds incredibly relaxing, even if I don’t have any artistic bones in my body! I also enjoyed seeing how friendship underpins the narrative and I don’t think Katy realised herself how much she needed her friends and how lucky she was to have such a strong support network. They are a good bunch who recognised when Katy was struggling, hence the surprise trip to France.
Overall, this was a pleasant read but I found it quite underwhelming. Katy’s indecisiveness and inability to see the flaws of her marriage really grated on me, and I don’t think the story held enough surprises to keep me fully interested.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
February 25, 2023
A decent, escapist, minimalist, beach read.
Lovely French setting. Pleasant artsy interactions. Characters learn and grow.
Lovely French setting. Pleasant artsy interactions. Characters learn and grow.
December 28, 2022
This was my second Gillian Harvey read, and I wasn't disappointed.
Katy is at that time of her life when her child has flown the nest (rather far, actually, to Australia, and decided to stay there a while longer), and her husband wants a break which appears to be more permanent than she originally thought.
She's devastated. After trying her hardest to change things up, enrolling in a BootCamp with her friends, and generally making herself more like she thinks her husband wants, her whole future is up in the air.
Then her friends take her away on a trip to France. Katy begins to rediscover herself and finds she rather likes what she remembers.
Could romance be on the cards?
There is something in this story that could speak to every woman of a certain age. We are battling with perimenopause and that feeling of being there for the use of the rest of the family, not ourselves.
I just loved how even though there were down moments, Katy was able to find herself in a way that she could enjoy a future that would embrace her as a person, not just a plus one.
Lovely read!
Many Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC.
Katy is at that time of her life when her child has flown the nest (rather far, actually, to Australia, and decided to stay there a while longer), and her husband wants a break which appears to be more permanent than she originally thought.
She's devastated. After trying her hardest to change things up, enrolling in a BootCamp with her friends, and generally making herself more like she thinks her husband wants, her whole future is up in the air.
Then her friends take her away on a trip to France. Katy begins to rediscover herself and finds she rather likes what she remembers.
Could romance be on the cards?
There is something in this story that could speak to every woman of a certain age. We are battling with perimenopause and that feeling of being there for the use of the rest of the family, not ourselves.
I just loved how even though there were down moments, Katy was able to find herself in a way that she could enjoy a future that would embrace her as a person, not just a plus one.
Lovely read!
Many Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC.
February 16, 2023
ONE FRENCH SUMMER - GILLIAN HARVEY
When Katy’s marriage falls apart and her daughter is on the other side of the world, it’s down to her best friends to help her pick up the pieces.
We could all do with friends like Katy’s. Not only do they rally around their friend when she is at her lowest ebb, but they are incredibly loyal and go as far as taking Katy to France for an art retreat.
Once in France, Katy, supported by her friends, begins to heal her broken heart and rediscover the woman she once was.
There may also be a certain French man who catches Katy’s eye.
This is another gorgeous read from Gillian Harvey.
The setting of the book is spectacular. Gillian Harvey paints a glorious portrait of France, in vivid colours that spring to life from the page.
Will is most definitely a slimy creep, but other than him, I liked and cared about the rest of this warm hearted crew.
One French Summer is a delightful read. It’s sunny and funny. Warm and wise.
An unpardonable five stars.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
With thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood and Rachel’s Random Resources for a digital arc of this title.
When Katy’s marriage falls apart and her daughter is on the other side of the world, it’s down to her best friends to help her pick up the pieces.
We could all do with friends like Katy’s. Not only do they rally around their friend when she is at her lowest ebb, but they are incredibly loyal and go as far as taking Katy to France for an art retreat.
Once in France, Katy, supported by her friends, begins to heal her broken heart and rediscover the woman she once was.
There may also be a certain French man who catches Katy’s eye.
This is another gorgeous read from Gillian Harvey.
The setting of the book is spectacular. Gillian Harvey paints a glorious portrait of France, in vivid colours that spring to life from the page.
Will is most definitely a slimy creep, but other than him, I liked and cared about the rest of this warm hearted crew.
One French Summer is a delightful read. It’s sunny and funny. Warm and wise.
An unpardonable five stars.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
With thanks to Netgalley, Boldwood and Rachel’s Random Resources for a digital arc of this title.
February 6, 2023
This book is about 4 best friends who are inseparable. They do everything together. Katy and her husband were having problems Katy knew nothing about. When her husband will suggested that they separate it took her by surprise. About 6 months later will calls Katy and asks her to meet him at a pizza restaurant and tells her that he thinks they should get a divorce. Katy finds out that will has been seeing another woman and has been living with her. Katy is devastated.
Katy’s best friends decide it’s the perfect time to go on a trip as a retreat to help katy get over her ex husband. i think everyone should read this book. Katy definitely deserved better than the man she married. He didn’t care about what she wanted, he only cared about himself. Even though I hated wills character I loved the book.
Katy’s best friends decide it’s the perfect time to go on a trip as a retreat to help katy get over her ex husband. i think everyone should read this book. Katy definitely deserved better than the man she married. He didn’t care about what she wanted, he only cared about himself. Even though I hated wills character I loved the book.
February 11, 2023
As the book opened, I immediately felt incredibly sorry for Katy, as I discovered that she was undergoing a trial separation from her husband. Her daughter had accepted a job in Australia leaving Katy as an empty nester. Getting ready to meet her husband, I had a strong feeling that she was being delusional. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with hoping for the best, but I instinctively knew that she was about to be seriously let down. Sadly, my instincts were right, and Katy is left heartbroken and on the verge of a deep depression.
Of course, Katy has an enviable group of loyal friends, and they soon rally around and whisk her off to France on an art retreat. There’s a great comedy element as Katy realises that she has only packed a small bag for a two-week holiday, but would she have been brave enough to wear a daring bikini if she hadn’t been left with no other option?
At its core, this is a book that closely examines the heart’s ability to recover from the most debilitating of situations. The strength that can be found in close friendships, and the empowerment of discovering one’s true self.
The four friends throw themselves into the art retreat with varying levels of success. Katy rediscovers her inner muse and begins to produce impressive pieces, but the real masterpiece is watching her emerge from her shell once she’s reminded that she’s still an attractive woman with a lot to offer. That reminder comes in the shape of handsome Frenchman, Valentin.
Gillian Harvey has created a love letter to France. Her descriptions of the local village and the abandoned cottage had me almost able to smell the pastries in the local boulangerie. Of course, the path to happiness is more complicated than visiting an art retreat, meeting a handsome Frenchman, and then never looking back. This story ensures that Katy makes the right decision so she can look forward with no regrets.
I enjoyed this gorgeous escape and can highly recommend it.
Of course, Katy has an enviable group of loyal friends, and they soon rally around and whisk her off to France on an art retreat. There’s a great comedy element as Katy realises that she has only packed a small bag for a two-week holiday, but would she have been brave enough to wear a daring bikini if she hadn’t been left with no other option?
At its core, this is a book that closely examines the heart’s ability to recover from the most debilitating of situations. The strength that can be found in close friendships, and the empowerment of discovering one’s true self.
The four friends throw themselves into the art retreat with varying levels of success. Katy rediscovers her inner muse and begins to produce impressive pieces, but the real masterpiece is watching her emerge from her shell once she’s reminded that she’s still an attractive woman with a lot to offer. That reminder comes in the shape of handsome Frenchman, Valentin.
Gillian Harvey has created a love letter to France. Her descriptions of the local village and the abandoned cottage had me almost able to smell the pastries in the local boulangerie. Of course, the path to happiness is more complicated than visiting an art retreat, meeting a handsome Frenchman, and then never looking back. This story ensures that Katy makes the right decision so she can look forward with no regrets.
I enjoyed this gorgeous escape and can highly recommend it.
June 3, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Both of this authors books that I’ve read made me wish I was the main character and took off to France for a long adventure. The friendship of these women and the characters in the book are wonderful. Can’t wait to read another.
August 21, 2025
A nice, easy summer read. Nothing ground breaking but took me away from real life and into beautiful rural France. Lovely!
June 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
April 1, 2023
For the last 20 years, Katy's life has been steady and predictable. Happily married to Will and working as a teacher whilst raising her daughter Adrienne, she's content . She believes everyone else is too until she's dealt the unexpected: Will wants to seperate.
6 months later, sure that he is calling to reconcile, Katy's world is shaken when Will says he's met someone else. Her dear friends, seeing that she is drowning, organise a surprise group vacation to an art retreat in the French countryside. Forced to look at her life objectively for the first time, will Katy have the strength to choose a new life for herself? One that truly makes her happy? Or will she fall back into old habits that didn't serve her?
This was a beautiful story of self discovery on the part of Katy, and author Gillian Harvey did a brilliant job of conveying the wide variety of emotions that she experiences. The setting was described vividly and I felt that each and every character she included had purpose and a reason to be there.
6 months later, sure that he is calling to reconcile, Katy's world is shaken when Will says he's met someone else. Her dear friends, seeing that she is drowning, organise a surprise group vacation to an art retreat in the French countryside. Forced to look at her life objectively for the first time, will Katy have the strength to choose a new life for herself? One that truly makes her happy? Or will she fall back into old habits that didn't serve her?
This was a beautiful story of self discovery on the part of Katy, and author Gillian Harvey did a brilliant job of conveying the wide variety of emotions that she experiences. The setting was described vividly and I felt that each and every character she included had purpose and a reason to be there.
June 14, 2023
When Katy’s marriage goes wrong and her daughter is on the other side of the world, her friends whisk her off to France to an Art Retreat to cheer her up. Gorgeous setting, this book shows the strength of real friendship and was a treat to read.
February 16, 2023
When Katy's husband Will asked for a trial separation after over twenty years of marriage, she tried hard to see it as the positive he claimed it could be, but the past six months have been hard. Then their daughter Adrienne calls from Australia to say that she is extending her time there to take a job, rather than return to go to university, and Katy hits rock bottom.
To save her from despair, her four best friends whisk her away to France for a surprise two week painting holiday. After a few days in the sun with the support of her friends, surrounded by the wonderful French countryside, Katy feels long dormant parts of herself coming alive again. Indulging the passion for art that she has pushed aside for years, she wonders if it might be time for some changes - and she cannot deny that she is attracted to the very handsome Valentin, who just happens to be visiting his sister at the artists' retreat.
Caught between the desire to win back her husband, and the prospect of a new future, what will Katy decide?
Just as in Gillian Harvey's previous novel, A Year at the French Farmhouse, in One French Summer she beautifully captures the dilemma of a mid forties woman caught at a crossroads in her life, when her long-marriage takes an unexpected turn. Desperately clinging on to the idea that the separation from her husband is temporary, Katy is persuaded by her friends to come for a holiday in the sun that unexpectedly helps her to get a different perspective on where her life goes from here. At the start of the holiday, Katy is not very receptive to their suggestions that Will might not have always been the ideal husband, which leads to to awkward moments, but spending time away from her problems proves to be a revelation... and of course, the presence of a very handsome French man who is interested in her happiness helps a lot.
As Harvey does so well, this story leads you up and down the garden path before you see what really lies ahead for Katy, and I was not sure for almost all of the book where she would land at the end. I found myself longing for Katy to find the courage to take the path towards the glimmer of a future in which she takes back control of her life, especially as her friends were so right about selfish Will (grrr!). Suffice to say, she makes the right decision for herself in the end.
I love Harvey's gentle romantic stories about older women. They are full of the trials and tribulations of long relationships, the pull of shared history that is not easily cast aside, and the times when change makes you reassess where life has brought you. She writes so beautifully about the French countryside, and the little details of French life too, which make you feel you are sitting alongside her characters as they enjoy everything the country has to offer. She also does a cracking job of examining female friendship here, and the heart-wrenching conflicted feelings that come when empty nest time eventually draws around.
I swallowed this lovely tale whole, running the emotional gamut all the way to the uplifting ending. This is perfect escapist, snuggle up on the sofa reading, and it does not disappoint. I cannot wait for Gillian Harvey's next heart-warming story.
To save her from despair, her four best friends whisk her away to France for a surprise two week painting holiday. After a few days in the sun with the support of her friends, surrounded by the wonderful French countryside, Katy feels long dormant parts of herself coming alive again. Indulging the passion for art that she has pushed aside for years, she wonders if it might be time for some changes - and she cannot deny that she is attracted to the very handsome Valentin, who just happens to be visiting his sister at the artists' retreat.
Caught between the desire to win back her husband, and the prospect of a new future, what will Katy decide?
Just as in Gillian Harvey's previous novel, A Year at the French Farmhouse, in One French Summer she beautifully captures the dilemma of a mid forties woman caught at a crossroads in her life, when her long-marriage takes an unexpected turn. Desperately clinging on to the idea that the separation from her husband is temporary, Katy is persuaded by her friends to come for a holiday in the sun that unexpectedly helps her to get a different perspective on where her life goes from here. At the start of the holiday, Katy is not very receptive to their suggestions that Will might not have always been the ideal husband, which leads to to awkward moments, but spending time away from her problems proves to be a revelation... and of course, the presence of a very handsome French man who is interested in her happiness helps a lot.
As Harvey does so well, this story leads you up and down the garden path before you see what really lies ahead for Katy, and I was not sure for almost all of the book where she would land at the end. I found myself longing for Katy to find the courage to take the path towards the glimmer of a future in which she takes back control of her life, especially as her friends were so right about selfish Will (grrr!). Suffice to say, she makes the right decision for herself in the end.
I love Harvey's gentle romantic stories about older women. They are full of the trials and tribulations of long relationships, the pull of shared history that is not easily cast aside, and the times when change makes you reassess where life has brought you. She writes so beautifully about the French countryside, and the little details of French life too, which make you feel you are sitting alongside her characters as they enjoy everything the country has to offer. She also does a cracking job of examining female friendship here, and the heart-wrenching conflicted feelings that come when empty nest time eventually draws around.
I swallowed this lovely tale whole, running the emotional gamut all the way to the uplifting ending. This is perfect escapist, snuggle up on the sofa reading, and it does not disappoint. I cannot wait for Gillian Harvey's next heart-warming story.
January 17, 2023
As the title suggests, this is a gorgeous story set in France. School teacher Katy badly needs an invention - refusing to see her marriage to the slimball that is her husband is over, her friends kidnap and whisk her off to the French countryside.
Arriving in the country she fell in love with as a child, together with her friends as they spend two weeks painting as the guests of Cecelia (you can't help but love her), she suddenly sees a whole new world of possiblity. France, and being a guest at the Maison d'Art, she meet Valentin, who changes everything. With early morning strolls to the patissertie, she finds herself slowly falling in love with Cecelia's brother. You just want her to move on, see that what her friends have done for her is a blessing in digust. Seeing her coming out of her shell, becoming this new person who suddenly wants to change her world. And why shouldn't she?
But just when she thinks she knows what she wants, including accepting that her daughter is right to be staying in Australia, she gets her mojo. With the help of old and new friends including Bob who, technically, gates crashes their little retreat, she begins to slowly start to see a new life. You can't help but want her to take that chance, until Will comes running back. I don't want to give too much away about him, but seriously, I wanted to see what really was, a lovecheat! .
I'm so glad I was accepted to be on my first blog tour with this lovely book about Katy. This is my first book by Gillian Harvey. I love how she managed to paint a picture of the various locations that were used, as well as seamlessly incorporting English and French writing.
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood and Rachel's Random Resources for allowing me a ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Arriving in the country she fell in love with as a child, together with her friends as they spend two weeks painting as the guests of Cecelia (you can't help but love her), she suddenly sees a whole new world of possiblity. France, and being a guest at the Maison d'Art, she meet Valentin, who changes everything. With early morning strolls to the patissertie, she finds herself slowly falling in love with Cecelia's brother. You just want her to move on, see that what her friends have done for her is a blessing in digust. Seeing her coming out of her shell, becoming this new person who suddenly wants to change her world. And why shouldn't she?
But just when she thinks she knows what she wants, including accepting that her daughter is right to be staying in Australia, she gets her mojo. With the help of old and new friends including Bob who, technically, gates crashes their little retreat, she begins to slowly start to see a new life. You can't help but want her to take that chance, until Will comes running back. I don't want to give too much away about him, but seriously, I wanted to see what really was, a lovecheat! .
I'm so glad I was accepted to be on my first blog tour with this lovely book about Katy. This is my first book by Gillian Harvey. I love how she managed to paint a picture of the various locations that were used, as well as seamlessly incorporting English and French writing.
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood and Rachel's Random Resources for allowing me a ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 17, 2023
Yay, I’m back in “la belle France” with another of Gillian Harvey’s books, and the setting is as stunning as ever, the characters believable and relevant for women of a certain age, and the whole story as highly entertaining and full of hope as always.
Katy’s life is pretty normal – at 49, she’s married with a grown-up daughter, and is going through the motions. Get up, work, cook, clean, got to bed. Thank heavens for her friends and their exercise group to break the routine, but when even that becomes part of the routine, you have to wonder what Katy is getting out of life. Is she happy? Has she ever asked herself that question?
When change is thrust upon by her husband leaving her for a younger woman, and her daughter taking up a job in Australia, Katy’s world crumbles. What does she have left without her family? She enjoys her job, but she’s not passionate about it. Cue an intervention by her friends who whisk her away to France.
Can they help her see that she is worthy of a happy life? Well, their holiday is not without friction – Katy is struggling to accept her new status quo, and her friends are treading on eggshells to not upset her further.
But two weeks in a beautiful French village, rediscovering her love of painting, enjoying great food… and meeting Valentin, the host’s brother seems to be having an effect.
Until her world is tipped upside down again. Will Katy go back to her former, dull but steady existence, or is she ready to take a chance on a new life? The answer will surprise you at first, but maybe the choice she makes is only the first step in finding herself and her own happy ever after.
Fabulous setting, great friendships, real conversations, and tough decisions make for a wonderfully immersive read.
Katy’s life is pretty normal – at 49, she’s married with a grown-up daughter, and is going through the motions. Get up, work, cook, clean, got to bed. Thank heavens for her friends and their exercise group to break the routine, but when even that becomes part of the routine, you have to wonder what Katy is getting out of life. Is she happy? Has she ever asked herself that question?
When change is thrust upon by her husband leaving her for a younger woman, and her daughter taking up a job in Australia, Katy’s world crumbles. What does she have left without her family? She enjoys her job, but she’s not passionate about it. Cue an intervention by her friends who whisk her away to France.
Can they help her see that she is worthy of a happy life? Well, their holiday is not without friction – Katy is struggling to accept her new status quo, and her friends are treading on eggshells to not upset her further.
But two weeks in a beautiful French village, rediscovering her love of painting, enjoying great food… and meeting Valentin, the host’s brother seems to be having an effect.
Until her world is tipped upside down again. Will Katy go back to her former, dull but steady existence, or is she ready to take a chance on a new life? The answer will surprise you at first, but maybe the choice she makes is only the first step in finding herself and her own happy ever after.
Fabulous setting, great friendships, real conversations, and tough decisions make for a wonderfully immersive read.
August 2, 2023
. Lyndsey King
5.0 out of 5 stars
Sunshine, Surprises
Reviewed in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 on 30 July 2023
What a wonderful holiday read. Gillian Harvey has certainly not disappointed her fans.. Life for Nicky has not had too many highs. Unknown to her, one phone call is all it takes to turn her life around. Ten years previously, her husband Steve, was in a fatal car accident. Left with two children to raise on her own, is daunting and hard work. She puts her life on hold whilst the girls were growing up. Jenny her best friend has supported her all the way through. Jenny , a TV executive rings Nicky for a huge favour. She needs someone to take over her designer for a TV programme about renovating properties Nicky agrees and shelll shocked when she was told she had to be in Provence, the following day.
What follows is a delicious book, made with some hilarious moments as well as a few sad bits. The characters were all true to life and you could not help nut adore them all. Nicky comes across at times, reserved. Her two girls and granddaughter are her life. Always putting their needs before her own. The sun shines on her as she goes to help renovate a B&B. The owner Robert, has a tale of his own to tell. Robert has become quite insular. Applying to be on this TV show would either make or break him. Such a quiet but gentle.
The ambience of Provence spills from the pages as we travel to France and watch the story unfold. Gillian Harvey has nailed it again. A definite five star read. Follow the TV show unfold. Thank you Gillian and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this.
Thank you for your review.
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5.0 out of 5 stars
Sunshine, Surprises
Reviewed in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 on 30 July 2023
What a wonderful holiday read. Gillian Harvey has certainly not disappointed her fans.. Life for Nicky has not had too many highs. Unknown to her, one phone call is all it takes to turn her life around. Ten years previously, her husband Steve, was in a fatal car accident. Left with two children to raise on her own, is daunting and hard work. She puts her life on hold whilst the girls were growing up. Jenny her best friend has supported her all the way through. Jenny , a TV executive rings Nicky for a huge favour. She needs someone to take over her designer for a TV programme about renovating properties Nicky agrees and shelll shocked when she was told she had to be in Provence, the following day.
What follows is a delicious book, made with some hilarious moments as well as a few sad bits. The characters were all true to life and you could not help nut adore them all. Nicky comes across at times, reserved. Her two girls and granddaughter are her life. Always putting their needs before her own. The sun shines on her as she goes to help renovate a B&B. The owner Robert, has a tale of his own to tell. Robert has become quite insular. Applying to be on this TV show would either make or break him. Such a quiet but gentle.
The ambience of Provence spills from the pages as we travel to France and watch the story unfold. Gillian Harvey has nailed it again. A definite five star read. Follow the TV show unfold. Thank you Gillian and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this.
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January 19, 2023
In “One French Summer”, Gillian Harvey takes us to Bordeaux, France where four best friends spend two weeks at a relaxing artist retreat where the sun is warm, the scenery is breathtaking and the food is divine. For Katy, this trip allowed her to revisit her love for painting which had been on the back burner for many years while she raised her daughter and played the dutiful wife to her annoying husband. Her friends whisked her away in an attempt to show her that life goes on despite the ache she had in her heart at the impending end of her marriage. Katy had become someone she really didn’t like and she was grateful for the love and support she received from her friends. The retreat would give her a chance to start over if she really wanted to, or at least offer her a peaceful and reflective respite away from everyday life. Katy quickly acclimated to her new environment and immersed herself in the daily outings where they would set up their easel’s and begin to create. Painting soothed her soul and gave her the chance to clear her mind and revel in the fascination of looking at a blank canvas and realizing that after all this time, anything is possible. The beauty of Bordeaux spoke to me as I joined Katy and her friends as they toured the beautiful countryside, enjoyed the delicious food and relaxed by the pool where they could pretend that this could be their life. We all need friends like Katy had and in the end, they helped her see that she deserved a second chance at the life she really wanted, and with someone who would love her unconditionally!
February 17, 2023
Last year I read A Year at the French Farmhouse by Gillian Harvey and I knew that I wanted to read more from her. And now, having read her new release, One French Summer, I was not disappointed.
Katy is in denial. She has been separated from her husband Will for months. Whilst her friends know, her 19 year old daughter Adrienne, who is currently living in Australia, doesn't. When Will announces that he needs to talk to her, she knows that he is going to say the temporary separation is over and he's coming back to her. Unfortunately, he does say the separation is no longer temporary - he wants a divorce. And Katy is devastated.
This is where her long time friends Ivy, Sam and Vicky step in and stage an intervention. They arrive at her house and basically order her to pack some essentials as they are going to France. With nowhere near enough clothes, she finds out that they are going to an art retreat near Bordeaux. Katy used to love art but it was one of the many things that went by the wayside when she was busy being Will's wife and Adrienne's mother. Now her friends are trying to show her that art isn't the only part of her that's she has lost along the way.
To read more head to
http://www.theintrepidreader.com/2023...
Katy is in denial. She has been separated from her husband Will for months. Whilst her friends know, her 19 year old daughter Adrienne, who is currently living in Australia, doesn't. When Will announces that he needs to talk to her, she knows that he is going to say the temporary separation is over and he's coming back to her. Unfortunately, he does say the separation is no longer temporary - he wants a divorce. And Katy is devastated.
This is where her long time friends Ivy, Sam and Vicky step in and stage an intervention. They arrive at her house and basically order her to pack some essentials as they are going to France. With nowhere near enough clothes, she finds out that they are going to an art retreat near Bordeaux. Katy used to love art but it was one of the many things that went by the wayside when she was busy being Will's wife and Adrienne's mother. Now her friends are trying to show her that art isn't the only part of her that's she has lost along the way.
To read more head to
http://www.theintrepidreader.com/2023...
April 14, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley, the publishing house and the author for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of this book in return for a review based upon my honest opinion.
This is the first book I have read by this author but it definitely won't be the last. This was truly enjoyable read. Katy is optimistic when her husband, whom she is currently on a trial separation from, want to see her. Katy's life crumbles when she realizes that he doesn't want to get back together he wants to ge a divorce. Katy falls into depression and doesn't know what to do with herself when her best friends show up and take her on a surprise vacation to help her find herself and get back into the swing of things. They all go to France on a painting retreat and Katy rediscovers her love of painting and art. Katy and her friends have some rough times and bond closer than ever. But for Katy, this vacation trip helps her find the person she was before marriage and children, the person that she didn''t know she had even left behind. Such an enjoyablre read, with a great cast of characters and a lovely background.
This is the first book I have read by this author but it definitely won't be the last. This was truly enjoyable read. Katy is optimistic when her husband, whom she is currently on a trial separation from, want to see her. Katy's life crumbles when she realizes that he doesn't want to get back together he wants to ge a divorce. Katy falls into depression and doesn't know what to do with herself when her best friends show up and take her on a surprise vacation to help her find herself and get back into the swing of things. They all go to France on a painting retreat and Katy rediscovers her love of painting and art. Katy and her friends have some rough times and bond closer than ever. But for Katy, this vacation trip helps her find the person she was before marriage and children, the person that she didn''t know she had even left behind. Such an enjoyablre read, with a great cast of characters and a lovely background.
January 13, 2023
*****Publishing February 14, 2023*****
Gillian Harvey’s books are always so much fun to read as they will transport you to France!
Katy has been separated from her husband for 6 months. During that time, she exercised and improved her appearance in hopes her husband would change his mind. Instead, he asked her to meet at the pizza place where they had their first date, in order to ask her for a divorce. When she is in despair, her best friends show up to surprise her with a girls' trip to Bordeaux, France. Her friends had booked a B&B called Maison D’Art, where they will paint for two weeks at different picturesque locations. Will bringing out her inner creativity help her to finally accept her new reality? Will this give her the push to move on with life? This book will have you turning the pages to find out!
A fun and entertaining book that will even have you laughing out loud at times. A perfect book to take on vacation!
Thanks to Boldwood Books, I was provided an ARC of One French Summer by Gillian Harvey via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. #NetGalley
Gillian Harvey’s books are always so much fun to read as they will transport you to France!
Katy has been separated from her husband for 6 months. During that time, she exercised and improved her appearance in hopes her husband would change his mind. Instead, he asked her to meet at the pizza place where they had their first date, in order to ask her for a divorce. When she is in despair, her best friends show up to surprise her with a girls' trip to Bordeaux, France. Her friends had booked a B&B called Maison D’Art, where they will paint for two weeks at different picturesque locations. Will bringing out her inner creativity help her to finally accept her new reality? Will this give her the push to move on with life? This book will have you turning the pages to find out!
A fun and entertaining book that will even have you laughing out loud at times. A perfect book to take on vacation!
Thanks to Boldwood Books, I was provided an ARC of One French Summer by Gillian Harvey via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. #NetGalley
February 5, 2023
Katy is on a trial separation from her husband Will which came out of the blue. This has now turned into a request for a divorce and she is floored. Cue her friends to whisk her off to France for a summer break away from her life in England.
This is a glorious journey of self discovery for Katy. Leaving a long relationship is horrendously difficult and those feelings struck a chord for me, it felt real. I loved how Katy comes to accept herself and to know that she has worth and beauty outside of being in a relationship.
‘Feeling rudderless… I feel that way too. Sometimes I think we all do.’
This was just the read for me at my time of life, a lot of themes are covered, menopause, divorce, the fact that when you reach your forties you suddenly stop being seen. Yet, as women I think we come into our own at this age, I feel way stronger than I used to and more confident too. It’s lovely to read a book where the protagonists reflect me, not some fit young thing!
It is a light read and is easy and flowing and I long to return to France for some summer Sun myself!
This is a glorious journey of self discovery for Katy. Leaving a long relationship is horrendously difficult and those feelings struck a chord for me, it felt real. I loved how Katy comes to accept herself and to know that she has worth and beauty outside of being in a relationship.
‘Feeling rudderless… I feel that way too. Sometimes I think we all do.’
This was just the read for me at my time of life, a lot of themes are covered, menopause, divorce, the fact that when you reach your forties you suddenly stop being seen. Yet, as women I think we come into our own at this age, I feel way stronger than I used to and more confident too. It’s lovely to read a book where the protagonists reflect me, not some fit young thing!
It is a light read and is easy and flowing and I long to return to France for some summer Sun myself!
February 20, 2023
Katy and her husband were on a trial separation. She always expected it to be just temporary, so she spend the last few months bettering herself and waiting for him. So when he calls to meet up, she is sure that they are getting back together, but the opposite happens. At about the same time she gets a call from her daughter who was travelling that she got a job and is staying on the other side of the world, in Australia.
In a very short time life as she knew it disappears. She is not taking it well, but her friends, who have been there through it all have a plan. They take her to France on a holiday.
It's an opportunity to spend time together, for Katy to find herself, separate from her husband and to have a fresh tart.
But it ends up being so much more for her.
I loved reading the book! It's a story of self-discovery, of love of true friendship mixed with humour.
My favourite part of the book was the friend group. They were very supportive, there for Kary no matter what and their banter was always funny. :)
Highly recommend it!
thanks to Boldwood Books for the ARC, all opinions are my own
In a very short time life as she knew it disappears. She is not taking it well, but her friends, who have been there through it all have a plan. They take her to France on a holiday.
It's an opportunity to spend time together, for Katy to find herself, separate from her husband and to have a fresh tart.
But it ends up being so much more for her.
I loved reading the book! It's a story of self-discovery, of love of true friendship mixed with humour.
My favourite part of the book was the friend group. They were very supportive, there for Kary no matter what and their banter was always funny. :)
Highly recommend it!
thanks to Boldwood Books for the ARC, all opinions are my own
January 16, 2023
I was so excited to read another book by Gillian Harvey, such a wonderful heartwarming journey.
The main character Katy is so unsure of where her life is headed, she’s devastated when her husband wanted a ‘break’!
Katy’s daughter has moved to Australia so when her three best friends take her on a surprise trip to France, it’s time to regroup!.
I particularly loved the bond that Katy has with her friends, there’s a wonderful opportunity to open her heart and eyes to the future.
This book is absolutely brilliant in showing that we are worthy of a future where dreams become reality. A great storyline of self-discovery!
Katy slowly realises that her husband is very controlling and selfish, she finds strength and happiness as the future unfolds! A real gem!
Thanks so much to Boldwood Books, NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The main character Katy is so unsure of where her life is headed, she’s devastated when her husband wanted a ‘break’!
Katy’s daughter has moved to Australia so when her three best friends take her on a surprise trip to France, it’s time to regroup!.
I particularly loved the bond that Katy has with her friends, there’s a wonderful opportunity to open her heart and eyes to the future.
This book is absolutely brilliant in showing that we are worthy of a future where dreams become reality. A great storyline of self-discovery!
Katy slowly realises that her husband is very controlling and selfish, she finds strength and happiness as the future unfolds! A real gem!
Thanks so much to Boldwood Books, NetGalley and the author for the opportunity to read this book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
February 12, 2023
Katy is still adjusting to life without Will; after he instigates a temporary separation, Her daughter wants to settle on the other side of the world. Katy feels bereft and has difficulty recognising the woman she once was. Good friends take her on an unexpected holiday that helps her find what she wants from life. This is an engaging read full of believable friendships, introspection and second chances. The French setting is vibrant, and the pace of life is vital to Katy's rebirth. I like Katy and understand how she has lost herself in a long-term relationship and motherhood. The story charts her self-discovery. Still, it is not without conflict and three-quarters into the story; I was despairing of her character. Thankfully serendipity and growing self-confidence let her find the new life she deserves. I like the characters, the relationship dynamics and the setting of this story.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
August 24, 2025
My first Gillian Harvey book.
I see there are many more to chose from.
Katy, oh my, I nearly left her for dead. But realised her situation just had to get better as I got further into the story.
She had such wonderful friends.
I loved the France holiday. I can’t believe Katy left and practically fled, back to the dirty rotten rat bag Will. At the airport, if in doubt - turn around now!
She made far too many excuses for Will.
I loved Linda 😂 wow, Katy his sister 😂 fabulous author moment.
Will is a scumbag .
Katy’s friends are so patient. But thankfully Katy came to her senses.
Anyone reads this book and identifies with Katy because their partner behaves like Will, take a leafy out of Katy’s book and head to France!
Vicky and her coming out was a bit unnecessary.
Why did she have to be …, it was too much if a box ticker fit the publisher. Not appreciated by the reader. Glad I didn’t bug the book.
I see there are many more to chose from.
Katy, oh my, I nearly left her for dead. But realised her situation just had to get better as I got further into the story.
She had such wonderful friends.
I loved the France holiday. I can’t believe Katy left and practically fled, back to the dirty rotten rat bag Will. At the airport, if in doubt - turn around now!
She made far too many excuses for Will.
I loved Linda 😂 wow, Katy his sister 😂 fabulous author moment.
Will is a scumbag .
Katy’s friends are so patient. But thankfully Katy came to her senses.
Anyone reads this book and identifies with Katy because their partner behaves like Will, take a leafy out of Katy’s book and head to France!
Vicky and her coming out was a bit unnecessary.
Why did she have to be …, it was too much if a box ticker fit the publisher. Not appreciated by the reader. Glad I didn’t bug the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2023
You get to escape to France along with Katy after her friends decide that a time away is what is needed, after a shock which has left her reeling. Friendship emerges as a major theme in the story, both old friends and new. By chance, it seems that Katy and her friends have happened upon a rather special community and one which gives Katy some space to think about the future.
The beautiful French countryside is a lovely setting to the story. There are plenty of funny episodes as Katy's art retreat holiday develops. Some of the characters raise a smile but they are all likeable (with maybe one exception). Katy, when faced with an empty nest, takes a good look at her future and by the end of the story, we have faith that she is going to make some good decisions.
In short: an engaging and light-hearted read
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book
The beautiful French countryside is a lovely setting to the story. There are plenty of funny episodes as Katy's art retreat holiday develops. Some of the characters raise a smile but they are all likeable (with maybe one exception). Katy, when faced with an empty nest, takes a good look at her future and by the end of the story, we have faith that she is going to make some good decisions.
In short: an engaging and light-hearted read
Thanks to the author for a copy of the book
February 16, 2023
Empty nest ….empty home.
Her husband and daughter have left to roam.
So watch her friends intervene
Taking her off to a new scene!
Going to France to a retreat
With activities and food, delightful and neat.
Will it help her find herself once more
Or will everyone's advice she sadly ignore?
With potential new starts in everything
Dare she take the chances on what they could bring?
Could the bad things that happened in her past
Prove to be beneficial at last?
With family drama and strong friendships, too,
This is a story of friends helping you find what to do.
They're there to support, help and guide now
To help her through everything somehow.
An inspirational read that helps to show
That events can be beneficial in the end you know.
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review.
Her husband and daughter have left to roam.
So watch her friends intervene
Taking her off to a new scene!
Going to France to a retreat
With activities and food, delightful and neat.
Will it help her find herself once more
Or will everyone's advice she sadly ignore?
With potential new starts in everything
Dare she take the chances on what they could bring?
Could the bad things that happened in her past
Prove to be beneficial at last?
With family drama and strong friendships, too,
This is a story of friends helping you find what to do.
They're there to support, help and guide now
To help her through everything somehow.
An inspirational read that helps to show
That events can be beneficial in the end you know.
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review.
December 28, 2022
I love this authors books and how she transports you to beautiful locations and with her descriptive writing makes you feel like you are there. This was the perfect escapism and uplifting read and read it in one go.
This was a very relatable read due to being of a similar age to the characters who are battling with lives crossroads and the onset of the menopause and also gives hope that not going through it on own and that we are still capable of achieving what we set out to do if we put our minds to it and generate a fresh start.
Loved the friendships and understanding the characters had with each other and how the camaraderie of having others around can lift women up and empower them.
Reading this made me want to escape to sunnier climes and follow in the main characters footsteps.
This was a very relatable read due to being of a similar age to the characters who are battling with lives crossroads and the onset of the menopause and also gives hope that not going through it on own and that we are still capable of achieving what we set out to do if we put our minds to it and generate a fresh start.
Loved the friendships and understanding the characters had with each other and how the camaraderie of having others around can lift women up and empower them.
Reading this made me want to escape to sunnier climes and follow in the main characters footsteps.
January 26, 2023
Gillian Harvey is right up there on my ‘must read’ list. Her books are an escape, whether it’s from reality, the country, or drama, you can guarantee you will be transported someplace else into the pages of a completely wonderful book.
Gillian has mastered the art of writing with just enough romance, humour, realism and authenticity to make her books a real treat. As if that isn’t enough, there’s the settings too! I was transported to France immediately with Katy and her friends, and I felt that warm holiday feeling. Good food, good company, good weather… and perhaps the odd romance or two… combined with some hidden secrets, make this the perfect read.
Gillian uses her own knowledge of moving to France to make this a very real book too!
Gillian has mastered the art of writing with just enough romance, humour, realism and authenticity to make her books a real treat. As if that isn’t enough, there’s the settings too! I was transported to France immediately with Katy and her friends, and I felt that warm holiday feeling. Good food, good company, good weather… and perhaps the odd romance or two… combined with some hidden secrets, make this the perfect read.
Gillian uses her own knowledge of moving to France to make this a very real book too!
February 9, 2023
This is my first book by Gillian Harvey and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I loved the descriptions of the French countryside and the food. I also enjoyed the authors use of both English and French writing.
This is a journey of self discovery for Katy who is on a trial separation from her husband Will. Katy’s friends whisk her away for a retreat after her husband’s request for a divorce. I loved that Katy was older and learned that she was capable of achieving a new start in life. Her friends help Katy in rediscovering herself and a chance at a different life.
A lovely easy read and I would highly recommend it.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the eARC I received in exchange for my honest opinion.
4/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This is a journey of self discovery for Katy who is on a trial separation from her husband Will. Katy’s friends whisk her away for a retreat after her husband’s request for a divorce. I loved that Katy was older and learned that she was capable of achieving a new start in life. Her friends help Katy in rediscovering herself and a chance at a different life.
A lovely easy read and I would highly recommend it.
Thank you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the eARC I received in exchange for my honest opinion.
4/⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
February 15, 2023
The best escapism novel that I have read!! Katy is feeling lost with her daughter in Australia and her husband Will has left her. Katy is hoping Will comes to his senses and returns to her. Her best friends Vicky, Sam and Ivy organise a retreat to France hoping that it will help cheer her up. I fully became immersed in this page turner with the brilliantly written settings of France, my imagination was running wild. Getting to know Katy and her friends was a absolute joy but unfortunately I can't say the same for her husband. I loved the writing of the characters and their friendships. A delightful book that made me laugh and smile and scream! A book to enjoy if you need a little getaway or if you are trying to find yourself again.
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