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REVIEW
What a charming and upbeat story! The French Chateau Dream by Julie Caplin is aptly named. The serene cover and title first caught my attention. For this is my first reading of the author’s books and I can see why she has such a large fan base.
The French Chateau Dream is one of those stories that quietly sneaks up on you and steals your heart. There is a priceless twist at the end, too. Something unexpected. This story hums along at a good pace but quickens towards its conclusion with some heart-racing events. Themes of finding the right person and leaving an unhealthy relationship behind, along and with the desire for second chances are evident. A work-vacation romance that has the potential to become more is certainly a big part of this story’s fabric, too. There is a strong message of letting go of the things that weigh us down. And it is not selfish to be kind to yourself and to desire happiness. We all need an equal partner who quickens our steps, lights a fire in our hearts and puts a gleam in our eyes.
These are things that a defeated Hattie must learn. She has been in a long-term demanding relationship: caring for a depressed and dependant man who seems to have no thought of her feelings. When she decides to break off the relationship and head to France to be her cousin’s wedding planner, her life takes some positive turns. She finds more than she expects in this lovely chateau. Including a kind and handsome Frenchman named Luc who treats her like royalty and shows her what a dazzling, fun-loving life could be like. With someone who considers her needs. He enjoys making her happy. As their relationship blossoms and she begins to feel good about herself, her past life tries to crash in on her. The previous boyfriend makes numerous attempts to re-enter her world. Manipulation is his forte. What will she do? Will she fall into his neediness again or continue to embrace her new love and joy?
On the surface, this novel appears quite light-hearted with some predictable outcomes. But don’t be fooled. For it manages to turn on its head and drive into some unexpected directions. I love the historical surprises it offers as they elevate the story to another level. It sails across the finish line with a few extra plot gems on its coat tails. For that reason, my original rating moved up a notch, too!
The French Chateau Dream is a real gem and a pleasure to read. The setting could not be more perfect for dreaming. I felt transported to France and the gorgeous chateau but also the trip Luc and Hattie take in to Paris. The French food focus is delightful and the descriptions of the settings that surround it give us a warm cosy feel. With Hattie being a wedding planner, the story delves into many aspects of what that job entails. Certainly not easy! But she seems in her element. Then her friend, who wants to start a catering service, is drawn into the wedding events. This lady provides some mouth-watering dishes that are so well described you can almost taste them!
Of course, no story set in France is complete without wine. And its importance to Luc is another beautiful thread. But he has a few battles with his family to work out first before his dreams can be realised. His desire to rekindle the chateau’s past opens another vein of intrigue. A discovery sends everyone spinning. This adds a bit of mystery to a very romantic plot and setting. With these extras along with a delightful cast, this novel becomes a spectacular and refreshing tale filled with secrets, sabotage and romance. I look forward to reading more books by Ms. Caplin. The French Chateau Dream is a novel I am glad I read and certainly recommend. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to One More Chapter and Netgalley for my review copy.
