Favorite Quotes:

I’ve lost my pride a few times over the years and it does shake your confidence, but the lessons I learnt were invaluable. Hardest of all though is when a family member turns on you – it’s a hurt that never goes away.

I swear if Jake fell out of a plane he’d land on his feet and walk away without breaking a sweat.

‘I knew this house needed something,’ Ronan says, slipping his arm around my waist and squeezing, ‘but I didn’t realise what it needed was YOU.’

I’ve been in limbo, I guess… I’ve been living my life one day at a time for so long now that it’s become second nature to me. I stopped noticing what was around me because without her here it feels like a shell.

To life, love and laughter. May we all be blessed with all three.


My Review:

Lucy Coleman’s background in interior design was readily apparent throughout this tale, as her narrative was rich with lush descriptions of every scene. I would imagine when touring and attempting to capture the opulence and extravagance of Versailles, her professional eye for detail could well have put her in danger of a massive cranial explosion as I nearly short-circuited during an all too brief tour many years ago. The storylines were slow to develop, intricately detailed, and rife with family drama, dead ends, and angsty misconceptions while a sweet romance was gradually blossoming and several underlying mysteries kept poking and taunting my curiosity. And what clever twists those threads turned out to be once unraveled. Lucy Coleman has a hidden side of sly and clever trickster lurking behind her sweet smile, which pleases me to no end ;-)

I have to say, I had a lot of fun with this book. It was the first book by Lucy Coleman that I have read and I enjoyed it.

First of all, my grandparents were Portuguese immigrants in France and most of my family still lives there, so I felt a good connection with the story because of the context. The brilliant and amazing descriptions transported me to the places were Lexie was. It almost felt like I was there, and I love when the writing does that to me and I get lost, not only in the storytelling, but also in the senses transmitted by the words.

Lexie was fantastic main character, that took me on this adventure through a part of France I haven't visit yet, and through the uncovering of mysteries, combined with meeting new people. I Then there is Ronan, and getting to see their relationship develop was fun. Because of them I felt as if I was a part of the story, even though as a spectator.

There were mysteries and connections that made the plot interesting, and I did enjoyed the historical elements, as well as the gardens. Not only is the story sparking of curious moments that made me turn page after page to learn more, the scenery gave the romantic ambiance that the story needed as well.

Overall, it was a good first book to read to enter this author's writing style. The characters were well written, the descriptions absolutely opened the storytelling to a movie kind of feeling, the family secrets are always a nice touch to keep the reader focus on the details, and France is just a country full of beautiful places to visit. It was a sweet novel and I can't wait to read more of Lucy Coleman's novels.

Ah, the Palace of Versailles .... what a backdrop to a story. As a fan of the recent TV series, how could I miss this one!  The author knows her stuff - this was a veritable tour guide within a story of of secrets, misunderstandings, family history and future endeavours (by which I mean romance, of course!) With beautiful descriptions, charming characters, and ·D detail, Lucy Coleman brings this gorgeous part of France to life, not just the palace but the people who work thee, the locals who live there and the gardeners whose past is intricately linked to the flowerbeds and topiaries. No wonder, Lexie, the MC, is so enamoured of the place. Clearly, her grandmother's story is a huge reason for bringing her to Versailles, but once there, the location begins to weave its magic on Lexie's own life.

The story is multilayered, with secrets from the past coming to the fore, and impacting new lives. A slow-burning romance develops between Lexie and her translator, Ronan as they tackle the job of making the documentary and uncovering the secrets of the past, not realising how their two families were connected already. This is the kind of story where it takes a whole village to tell the tale, from Lexie's neighbour in the row of gorgeous cottages, to the owners of the flat where her grandmother lived, over the flowershop. Not forgetting the interviewees, some more reluctant to talk than others (well, one in particular) whose connections to the Palace help to flesh out Lexie's dream project.

You can tell this was a labour of love for Lexie, her enthusiasm is unerring, as is her determination to get the documentary finished when events beyond her control throw a curve ball in its direction.

This is a heart-warming story, so easy to get engrossed in, with drama and red herrings, misunderstandings and even a touch of bitterness. Yet the tale comes together with aplomb. You'd expect nothing less than perfection from such a grand and elegant venue, and you won't be disappointed.

After yet another week of wind, a little bit of snow and freezing temperatures this was the perfect novel to cosy up with and pretend I was in a much prettier, warmer place. 

This novel has a little of everything as we follow Lexi to Versailles on her journey to creating a new TV show as a producer.  In addition to the new show, Lexi is also curious about a year that her Grandmother had spent there but never talked about.  Will her new show be a hit?  Will she find out what her Gran did in that year?  Will Versailles weave its magic on Lexi?

Writing a novel set in a place for it's beauty was always going to be tough but Lucy Coleman does a superb job of bringing Versailles to life for the reader.  I'm just completely in love with the place and it's now on my places to visit as soon as I can.  every detail of the houses, gardens and the general atmosphere was described beautifully. 

Lexi was an interesting character and I loved being part of her journey.  The plot was perfectly paced with the right balance of family drama, mystery and romance and I felt they were all given the right amount of attention. 

Lucy Coleman has become one of those authors I cannot resist and I cannot recommend this, or any of her books enough.

A dash of romance, drama and history makes this a good leisurely read for summer vacation. I Loved how the past and present connect in this love story set in beautiful French backdrop.

I was initially drawn to A Springtime to Remember as I am fascinated by the Palace of Versailles and the French Revolution. Ever since I saw the Marie Antoinette movie starring Kirsten Dunst I have been fascinated with this beautiful palace. I hope to spend several days exploring the palace and its grounds one day.

I loved Lucy Coleman’s writing style. Versailles is a large focus of the book and there are pages of vivid descriptions of the Palace and its grounds. Everywhere Lexie visits in France is described in detail and I could picture it all very clearly. I want to stay in Lexie’s French cottage — I hope it exists as it sounds just lovely! Lucy has clearly a real love of France and Versailles — and has done her research! I learned so much about the Palace and its modern history, such as the destruction caused by a hurricane in 1999 (over 10,000 trees were destroyed!).

I found it really hard to put this book down. The story is really engaging, and I enjoyed all of the twists and turns. I loved reading more about Grandma Viv and finding out what had happened in her past — as well as the past of the main characters in the story!

All of the characters are all incredibly well-written. A Springtime to Remember is told from Lexie’s point of view, and I really liked her. She is career-focused, professional and determined to make the new documentary work. All the characters felt very distinct, and while a couple of conversations read a bit forced and only there to move the story along, overall it felt very realistic. I felt that I got to know each character as the story progressed, and could sit down and have a coffee with them. They all have their own histories and demons, and they all make mistakes, too — Lexie is certainly not a perfect protagonist!

I liked the lessons around balancing life and work, and that ultimately, you must do what is right for you and makes you happy — and that you are not responsible for other people’s behaviour once you make your decision. I was glad that this book didn’t fall into typical stereotypes.

Romance novels aren’t my usual fare but I am so glad I made the exception for this. A Springtime to Remember is a great read, with memorable characters, vivid descriptions and an intriguing story.

I really enjoyed A Springtime To Remember as I followed Lexi to Versailles to film a series about the gardens. She has an interest as her grandmother spent a year here before she got married and yet never mentions it. Ronan is an interpreter whose grandfather worked at Versailles and there is a history that haunts him. Was it fate that brought these two to work together or something else.

I have read a few books by this author and I always enjoy the stories she weaves. A Springtime To Remember had a slightly different feel to it as the author delved into a little of the history of the Palace of Versailles and its gardens. I enjoyed this quite a lot and it was interesting to see how the history, politics, financing and personalities had a part to play in this world famous site. While I did find it really interesting I did feel it took a little of the pacing from the story.

The author does a brilliant job of telling the tale of the two main protagonists as they meet and get to know each other. There is that magical feeling of a mutual attraction that this author writes so well. The story takes turns that delved into each of their family pasts as well as events happening in the present. There is turmoil to both parties and I thought they were good reading.

I liked the descriptions of the opulence of the palace and the gardens and they provided a wonderful backdrop to the story. Food is mentioned, well it is Paris afterall!

This is another wonderful story by this author, she takes the reader on a journey that sees family history finally seeing the light of day, personal revelations and realising what is important in life. I deal for romance fans who like a story that has a little history and an all round great read. It is heartwarming and not everything is guaranteed. I would recommend reading A Springtime To Remember.

If you are looking for something sweet, uplifting and really easy to read when you are snuggled up against the weather on a Sunday afternoon, this is the book to pick up. Have you ever seen one of those TV adverts where someone opens a book or a holiday brochure and a beam of sunshine bursts out of the pages? This book feels just like that. You will feel the warmth on your face, hear the birds singing and know that all is right with the world whilst you are between its pages.

This isn’t the most complex of stories, but that isn’t a negative as far as this book goes. Don’t you sometimes just want something undemanding that you can let wash over you like a gentle wave as you revel in the descriptions of somewhere stunning and bask in a happy glow? Not every book has to be challenging and intellectually demanding. This is really a book to relax with, not worry that there is going to be a very unpleasant twist to deal with and be confident that it will probably turn out okay. That’s not to say it doesn’t deal with difficult issues, because it does, but it is at a step removed from the main protagonists which allows the reader to have some distance from the trauma.

The setting is a place I have visited once but do not know intimately, and I really enjoyed exploring it a little more through the excellent writing and finding out a bit more about the place and its environs. The author really brought the place to life, and how delightful it would be in the spring. She made the location charming and peopled it with fantastic and likeable characters that brought the plot to life in support of Lexie and Ronan who carry the story beautifully.

A tender and touching story that was a pleasure to read and left me with a happy, warm glow. (By the way, does anyone else think that the girl on the cover bears an uncanny resemblance to Scarlett Johansson?)

Romance, family drama and mystery, this novel has a bit of everything. Set around Paris and The Palace of Versailles, you could tell how much the author thought of the area as the setting and description were wonderfully evocative and having been there myself really transported me back and to a sun-drenched France.
A great feel good read, we read about Lexie, as she is given the opportunity to work at Versailles for the spring. Lexie's grandmother once spent time there, but something happened during this time which was never spoken of and Lexie uses this time to find out. With a possible romance between Lexie and Ronan, a handsome interpreter along with the storyline of her grandmother's mystery, this really was a read to bring a bit of sunshine to these darker months. The characters were very likeable and believable. A great piece of escapism.

A lovely story set in Versailles that will sweep you along and leave you feeling warm and fuzzy.

Lexie has headed to Versailles to follow in her Grandmother's footsteps and try to discover more about a year of her life she never discussed. The story pulled me in early on as I love gardening and was fascinated by the gorgeous descriptions of the stunning gardens.

Set against a stunning back drop I loved devouring the story of Lexie and getting to know the story of her Grandmother and what really happened in the year she spent in Versailles.

A wonderful feel good read that will leave you yearning to explore the streets of Versailles

this book got me in the mood to prepare for spring! i'm so gald i read it and i wanted you to read it, too. so do.

I really enjoyed this book. A fantastic story set in beautiful Palace of Versailles. The author descriptions were excellent and I feel I need a holiday in France! Beautifully written with a lovely cast of characters, I was drawn in from the start and couldn't put this lovely book down. A perfect family drama with some romance too.

A perfect book for an afternoon on the sofa or holiday read.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review

This has been an absolutely fantastic escape at the end of a busy day. France has never been somewhere I have wanted to visit, this book has completely changed my mind.

This is a beautiful and heartwarming story with family misunderstandings, romance and dreams all mixed into one gorgeous package.

A Springtime to Remember is my first read by Lucy Coleman but it definitely won't be the last. She has pulled me in from the very beginning and this is a book which I have found truly difficult to put down.

I have enjoyed reading this one and imagining being at this beautiful setting. Definitely worthy of a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ rating.

A very pleasant book to read, I enjoyed following Lexie on her adventure in Versailles.
Lucy creates beautiful scenery with her very descriptive writing, you almost feel like you are there in the French sunshine ☀️
The characters are so realistic that you are soon drawn into the story and are keen to find out about her Grandmothers year spent in France in the 1960s.
Such a gorgeous gentle story ❤️

I enjoyed reading this book. Lexie plans to film a TV series about the gardens of Versailles while also hoping to walk in the footsteps of her Grandmother who spent time working in the gardens in Versailles 50 years earlier but never told her family about what happened during her time there.
Lexie employs author, historian and interpreter, Ronan, to help with the TV series but quickly the pair develop feelings for one another & soon become a couple. However, when Lexie and Ronan begin to discover information about her Grandmother’s time in Versailles the story takes another turn.
A good book, perhaps a little bland & predictable at times but I enjoyed it and the wonderful descriptions of Versailles show the author’s own love for the place.

This was my second book I have read by Lucy Coleman. I loved the description of the location and scenery with a good tale. I want a copy of the pictures and have put Palace of Versailles with all of France on my bucket list. I hope all readers will feel the same. I recommend the tour though the eyes of Lexie, our main character. Grandma Viv, family secrets and love bring the full storyline a five star read. Bravo to Ms. Coleman.

I loved the setting for this story, in Versailles which was so inextricably woven into the book. You could picture the typical French house which Lexie was staying in and the descriptions of the Palace and its grounds really came alive throughout. In addition to the current plot of Lexie's purpose in being there and her family relationships, there is the delicious mystery of her grandmother's year spent there in the early 1960's which added to the narrative.

It was easy to become engaged with the story and with the characters who Lexie meets in France. The romance is a slow burner which adds to the charm. It is a great way to look forward to Springtime after all the festivities and it felt like a breath of fresh air to start the New Year off.

In short: A well written contemporary romance wth a touch of France. Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book.

I have been a fan of Lucy's work for a little while now. I love the way in which she writes such heart warming and realistic stories. I read the synopsis for 'A Springtime To Remember' and it certainly sounded like just my sort of read. I couldn't wait to start reading so without further ado, I sat down with a cup of tea in one hand and my Kindle in another and began to read. Having just finished reading it, I can say that Lucy Coleman has done it again and she has written one heck of a book.
I loved the characters in this book. I would say that I warmed to Lexie the most. She is a young television presenter, who is very hard working and ambitious too. She is one of three siblings and is close to her sister. Her brother is estranged from the rest of the family for reasons which aren't immediately clear. I think that Lexie envies her sister as she is married and has one child already with another on the way. Lexie's sister envies Lexie in the sense that she has no ties and she can go where she wants when she wants. Lexie is fascinated by Paris and the Palace Of Versailles and a work project sees her going to conduct interviews in the place that is so important to her. At the same time she wants to research her family history and explore the life of her grandmother Viv, who spent a year in Paris but refused to discuss her experiences there. Lexie is sure that there must be a reason as to why her grandmother was so reluctant to discuss Paris. I hoped that Lexie's work wouldn't prevent her from having some time to herself and who knows, perhaps she might find happiness herself.
Once again, I was drawn into this book from the first word onwards. I felt as though I was part of the story myself. Reading 'A Springtime To Remember' soon became extremely addictive. I would pick the book up only intending to read a couple of chapters and fill in the odd half hour but then I found that I was enjoying the book so much that I read for far longer than any half an hour and I had read way more than a couple of chapters. I soon flew through the story and before I knew it, I had finished the book, which I was very disappointed about. I don't mean that I was disappointed with how the story ended but I was enjoying the characters, the story and the author's writing style so much that I just wanted the book to continue on and on.
'A Springtime To Remember' is brilliantly written but then I wouldn't expect anything else from Lucy Coleman. She writes emotional and heart warming romantic fiction. She describes her characters so realistically that they seem to spring to life, jump off the page and they seem just as realistic as you or I. I found it impossible to dislike any of the characters in this book. Lucy writes so realistically and uses such vivid descriptions that had I closed my eyes, I could easily imagine that I was in France with the sun beating down on my face and with all the relevant sounds and general life going on around me. I found that I empathised with the characters and I felt myself going through every emotion that they went through.
In short, 'A Springtime To Remember' is a brilliant read, which I would definitely recommend to other readers. I will definitely be reading more of Lucy's work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.

It is clear from the detailed descriptions that the author has a clear affinity for The Palace of Versailles.

Personally I'm not as keen on the building, or it's history, but I didn't let the sections that seemed to be dedicated to the Palace itself detract me from the story being told.

And in fact everything to do with the gardens, I did find very interesting, which is lucky since Lexie is filming a series about the gardens and gardeners of Versailles.

She is also determined to find out just what happened during her grandmother's year working there in the 60s, as it was never spoken about.

Ronan is the chosen interpreter for this project but he also has a personal connection to the gardens, and its quite clear that there is a spark between him and Lexie very early on.

I enjoyed the various plot points, and the writing, and although it's not my favourite book from the author, I still thought it was really good and entertaining.

Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily,

Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of this book in return for a review based upon my honest opinion.

As our main character, Alexandra “Lexie” Winter flies off to France to do a documentary on the gardens in the castle of Versailles, we are swept along with her, I could almost smell the flowers of the gardens and feel the warm wind on my face, while listening to the birds chatter as they flit about the beautifully sculpted topiaries. The author did a lovely job describing the scenery. Lexie has put everything she has into this documentary, but it is not the only reason for her to be there. In the early 1960s, her grandmother, Viv, spent a year at Versailles in the gardens in a project that she never spoke of, Lexie is hoping to discover what her grandmother did that year and fill in that gap oh her family history. Her mother sends a box of notebooks from that time and with the help of Ronan, the interpreter for her documentary, she hopes to find the truth. But what is the truth and will getting close to it and Ronan be a dangerous idea for her heart, mind and career?

A wonderful story of love and family; with beautiful scenery and descriptions. I have not been to Versailles, but I feel almost like I have seen it. This author is definitely on my list of authors to watch for.