This is an author whose books I adore. Each one has something special about it and Celebrations at the Chateau is another wonderful read.

When Fliss and her two sisters discover they have been left a chateau they are shocked in more ways than. It is not something they can deal with in a straightforward way, there are clauses and conditions. One of which is a sitting tenant, the other is that they cannot sell it! The sisters decide that it is Fliss who must remain behind to deal with trying to sort the basics out as they have proper commitments back home in the UK.

Being the youngest of the three sisters, Fliss feels that she has always been told what to do and isn't taken seriously. She is in fact a determined young woman and her determination is going to be needed over the coming months.

The author weaves a story that has some heartbreaking roots, this is not revealed until later in the story. Before that is reached she has to meet, the neighbours, try to make some basic repairs, get advice and try to get the locals on the side. Not easy.

The story is one that weaves the past into the present, secrets are part of the chateau as are the apples. The apples give the reader a chance to delight in the author's love of food, she has a fabulous way of delivering local dishes, drinks and other delights to her stories and I have to say this story was oozing with rich and tempting dishes as well as lighter snacks and meals.

The story is one about giving people a second chance, but not taking second best. A gorgeous story that involves families and their bonds. Of love, loss and the chance of fresh starts and new beginnings. I adored everything about this book and if you have read any of this authors' books before then you know you are going to be in for a treat.

This is one for those who like contemporary fiction and romance. It is one I would definitely recommend.

Fliss and her two sisters inherit a French chateau when their grandfather dies. They knew nothing about it and are shocked to find that the property comes with its own resident, the enigmatic Madame Charlotte Cadieux.

With unexpected bills to pay, Fliss is left to find a way of making the chateau pay its way. Not easy when she is faced with hostility from the local townsfolk and a mayor - also Charlotte's grandson - who initially appears frosty and unhelpful.

As is always the case in such stories, things come together and there is romance, secrets long buried, and of course loads of food and a touch of Christmas magic.

I enjoyed this story with its French setting and loved especially the character of Charlotte with her twinkle and love for life. She enabled Fliss to grow in confidence when others wanted her to fail.

There is a predictably sweet ending, as I guessed would be the case, but it was good to see how the sisters, even the uber-organised Lizzie, realised that their futures lay in working together.

This would be an ideal festive read and perfect with a glass of wine or even apple brandy - you'll understand why when you read the book!

I was sent an advance review copy of this book by Random House UK, Transworld Publishers, in return for an honest appraisal.

.I really enjoyed this book and I feel it could easily be turned into a short series. 

Jess Hope and her two sisters inherite a chateau from there grandfather but he has never mentioned it to them. They were expecting somewhere small but this is far from it.

They have a sitting tenant, Madame Charlotte Cadied, who they must pay an allowance to while she lives in the chateau. So they also can't sell it.

Flies stays in France to sort out the chateau and trys to get locals on side but fails miserably, receiving old food and questioning looks.

She has a run in with Jacques and then finds out that he's the mayor. And she now has to win him round to turn the chateau into a B+B.

Will Fliss manage to save the chateau and settle into the French village. Will she find happiness for all her family?

There are so many great characters in this novel that add layers and joy. I liked them all! 
It doesn't have to be read as a Christmas novel it could be set any time of year.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for giving me a digital copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.

This is another delightful read by Jo Thomas, set in .

Fliss and her sisters inherit a beautiful french chateau when their beloved grandfather passes away. However they have a problem in that there’s a chatelaine in residence, a huge tax bill. Electing Fliss to stay at the chateau, she has to find a way to make the chateau pay for itself. However this is not easy with unwelcome locals and a grumpy mayor who put obstacles in her way.

This is a heartwarming Christmas story about never giving up, resilience, building confidence and of course romance.

Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book, this is my unpaid honest review.

Jo Thomas has written another excellent feel-good read for the run-up to Christmas. This has some interesting characters and is set in France. I enjoyed 'Finding Love at the Christmas Market' last year and this one, Celebrations at the Chateau, is equally as good. There is a great variety of people and the chateau almost has a life of its own. The main plot and subplots are all engaging and the story has depth. The Christmassy elements are wonderful, too and, of course, the food references; bread, cheese, cream, crepes, apple cider and casseroles, a perfect prelude for the Christmas and New Year feasts to come. A super little story for the festive season, or indeed, any time full of fun and emotion.

I received a complimentary copy of this novel from Random House UK/ Corgi via NetGalley at my request and this review is my own unbiased opinion.

My thanks to NetGalley Random House for a copy of” Celebrations At The Chateau” for an honest review.

Jo Thomas always seems able to deliver the perfect feel good read for the lead up to Christmas.This has
Interesting characters and an ideal setting of France.
A light , relaxing read to get you into the spirit of the season.

As I started reading I didn’t initially get a must read vibe but so glad I continued. A tale of boosting your confidence and bringing everyone together. I love a happy ending

Another great book from Jo Thomas. A little predictable in places but then who doesn’t like a bit of Christmas Romance. Lovely characters who travel to France as they think they have inherited a chateaux. However this is not a straightforward arrangement so let battle commence. Thanks to Jo Thomas her publisher and NetGalley.

I really wanted to love this book. Three sisters inherit a French chateau they had no idea their beloved Grandpa owned? Awkward sister who spent her 20s in odd jobs and an odder relationship being left to sort the whole thing out? Sounds great.

Unfortunately, the characters were all one dimensional. The writing felt stilted; phrases were repeated several sentences apart. Perhaps this got sussed out and smoothed out in the final edits? I read an ARC that wasn't fully formatted into chapters.

It was nice to watch Fliss figure out that her history of odd jobs prepared her for reviving and running a neglected chateau. But she really didn't ever try to connect with the villagers. She only interacted with them when she needed help and that was only because Jacques smoothed the way ahead of time. She doesn't even ever learn the names of some of the people helping her! I also wished Fliss got more support and coping strategies for her dyslexia to boost her confidence and help her better navigate her adult years. I thought maybe Jason would have had a hand in that but that poor kid mostly just washes dishes.

There are not many "celebrations" at the chateau until the final chapters. So maybe a different title would better set up the expectations?

We only found the bare minimum of details about how the grandfather came to own a chateau and never told anyone either. Where did he get the money for the monthly allowance and yearly tax bill

Also, the main characters barely interact through the book and then boom, they love each other? I know, I know, it's a fluffy romancy book but still, Fliss and Jacques didn't even have a full paragraph of conversation in the whole book until his big awkward speech at the end?

In all there were not lot of romantic or holiday feels.

*I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher and I am required to disclose that in my review in compliance with federal law.

Who do you turn to when you are in search of a ‘breather’ book … you know the type .... one that whisks you away where new ventures are to be had? Jo Thomas of course! And for this trip we are off to rural France. Yup … inheriting and renovating an old French Chateau can now be ticked off my bucket list. Thanks Jo!

‘Reluctantly, I move down the steps, looking back at the stone façade, my hand running down the lichen covered balustrade. At the bottom, I turn back to the château. I’m buzzing with questions and curiosity. I want to see it all. I want to find out who lived there.’

There is just so much to love about a Jo Thomas book … all the requisites are there of course …. idyllic location, gourmet cuisine, romantic love interest … but Jo always adds those extra elements that take this genre to the next level. Firstly, there are a range of loveable (and not so lovable) characters that are sure to keep you entertained - special mention to Jason (teenage nephew) and Charlotte (intimidating 70yo chatelaine). How wonderful to have this cross section of age and storylines! Even the chateau itself is a character - I’m talking to you Boris the Boiler! This obviously brings with it a range of engaging subplots that bring real depth to the narrative. How did the sisters come to inherit the chateau? Can they save and bring back to life the chateau? Will Fliss be able to win over the locals?

‘Some memories shouldn’t be shut away. They should be enjoyed.’ She smiles. ‘Among the bad, there are still good ones that should be celebrated.’

Being in France brings all kinds of reader benefits - everything from apple harvesting and cider making, to cheese making, to life on the land. I love the inclusion of so much French vernacular that I now have some impressive conversational dialogue and credit Jo with once more avoiding that ‘little Britain’ in rural France.

‘I don’t have a plan B. This has to work. I don’t want to walk away from it. Right now, it’s my happy place. I can’t give up on it.’

I simply adored this refreshing book that had me smiling from cover to cover. Oui! It did! Whilst romantic I believe it is the romance with the chateau that is front and centre on this occasion. Make a subtle start to this festive season (a magical Christmas and Bonne Année for all) with yet another winning feel good escape by Jo Thomas.

‘It’s beautiful,’ is all I say, as, despite the cold and damp, the ivy creeping round the door, I see how this place must once have been. The original ceiling rose is still in place, with a chandelier and ornate cornices. The craftsmanship that had gone into building the place is stunning. I’m in awe.’


This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.

Wow!! Jo Thomas has hit the spot yet again!! This book is heart warming, joyous, and such a lovely read!!
Three sisters inherit a Chateau in France, that they knew nothing about!! Once they get there to see what they're in for, do they sell, or stay?
Super story, especially for Christmas, but really it's for anytime of the year!!
I learnt a little bit of French, and a little of the French way of life, with the glorious way that the author explains and tells the story!!
Absolutely wonderful!!

Three sisters inherit a faded but charismatic chateau from their grandfather. Selling appears to be the only viable option as it needs extensive renovation, and there are bills to pay. Discovering selling the chateau is problematic using the chateau as a business is the best alternative. Opposition from the locals reveals their inheritance has a troubled history.

Vibrant characters and vivid descriptions bring this story to life. The three sisters differing personalities add to the conflict and drama. Emotional, humorous and full of romance, this is a lovely escapist read.

I received a copy of this book from Random House UK -Transworld-Corgi via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

Thanks to netgalley for the chance to read this book.

Great read.

When Fliss and her two sisters lose their grandfather they discover they haven’t inherited a château in Normandy in France. They all travel to see what the château is like and if they can sell it. They find out that they have a sitting tenant (the Mayor’s grandmother), it needs a lot of work to make it inhabitable and a huge tax bill is due. Fliss decides she will stay and do they château up and open a bed and breakfast. Will she be able to persuade the people of the nearby village that she is here to help and not cause trouble and will she find out why they are opposed to the idea.

Absolutely loved this book. I'm a self-confessed francophile and love books set in France. Three sisters inherit a French chateau in Normandy but have no idea why. They want to sell, it but there's a catch, the resident chatalaine. The history of how their grandfather acquired the chateau reveals why there is animosity between the new chateau owners and the local population. This story reveals history, romance, relationships and how when things get tough, people come together to help each other. I loved this book, couldn't put it down and look forward to the next Jo Thomas. Would love it if there's a sequel. I'm grateful to Netgalley for having the chance to read and review this book.

4.5 Stars

Celebrations at the Chateau is a gorgeous French-set romantic escape from the stylish, effervescent and sparkling pen of the fabulous Jo Thomas.

Fliss and her sisters are absolutely stunned when they are informed that they’ve inherited a French chateau! To say they were astonished when they received the news after their grandfather’s death would surely be the understatement of the century, so unable to contain their excitement Fliss and her sisters head off to Normandy to take a closer look at their legacy. However, on arrival in France the girls are shocked when they discover that the chateau needs a major overhaul and that a massive tax bill is due! What are Fliss and her sisters going to do now?

Unable to sell the property and with a huge cash flow problem, they decide to make the most of the building they’ve inherited and turn it into a B&B. Fliss is sure that she is on to a great money-spinner that is going to turn all of their fortunes around – until handsome town mayor Jacques strides up to her and makes his vehement objections to her project perfectly clear! Having come this far, Fliss is not about to let Jacques throw her perfectly laid plans awry and she is willing to do whatever it takes not to allow his opposition to destroy any hope the family might have of making the chateau a profitable concern. However, the infuriating, aggravating and very attractive town mayor refuses to budge an inch!

Fliss will not let Jacques trample all over her dreams and ambitions and when fate throws the two of them together in the most startling and unexpected of ways, they soon realise that they’ve got far more in common that they initially thought!

Jo Thomas’ Celebrations at the Chateau is a fun and feel-good romp set in France that is an absolute joy to snuggle up with. A wonderfully uplifting, highly entertaining and absolutely gorgeous tale with a delightful cast of characters – including a handsome hero readers will adore – rib-tickling mischief, laugh out loud humour and satisfying emotional drama, Celebrations at the Chateau an absolute joy from beginning to end.

Set in a beautiful part of the world which is vividly evoked by Jo Thomas’ brilliant ability to make her settings come to life on the page, Celebrations at the Chateau is an immensely enjoyable romantic read perfect for brightening up any dull and dismal autumn day.

Set in a french Chateau what could be more romantic?

a heartwarming romance that is a little predictable but who doesnt love a romance set in France that has a Christmassy feel.

When Fliss and her sisters are left a French chateau from their grandfather, they go to visit it with a view to selling it. However the chateau is very run down and has someone in residence so can't be sold. As her sisters have to return to UK it is decided that Fliss will stay on to work out what to do next.
For me this was a run of the mill romance with few surprises. Pleasant enough to read with great characters but lacking depth.

I think that randomly inheriting a French chateau would be incredibly stressful, but I also think that it would be a dream for a lot of us. Celebrations at the Chateau is the perfect book to read if you have ever watched a restoration show on HGTV and dreamed of doing it yourself, or if you are like me, you spend time looking at abandoned castles that you can buy. I felt like I was exploring and restoring the chateau along with Fliss, and I think Watson did a wonderful job of writing secondary characters- there are a few that I wanted to spend a lot more time with (a good sign for me). This is a fun, entertaining, and heartfelt holiday book!

Jo Thomas has set this novel in the French countryside in a crumbling old chateau on the outskirts of a Village which seems at first to be hostile towards newcomers. There are some marvellous characters amongst the villagers and you can really picture life there. Why they are so suspicious of the new owners of the chateau slowly comes to light. I enjoyed unravelling the mystery about how the chateau cam e to be in the possession of the sisters along with Fliss.
Fliss has sensed that there is something missing in her life and is at a crossroads in her life. There is a strong theme of starting over and making a fresh start in the story. Being set over the Christmas period means that there is a lovely Christmassy feel as the story develops and at the New Year, a sense of renewal and fresh starts.
It is a warm, escapist read which involves the reader to the end and is well worth a place on your Christmas reading list.

In short: Starting over and moving on.
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book

Thank you to #NetGalley and #Transworld Digital for an advance copy of #CelebrationsAtTheChateau by#JoThomas
When their grandpa died Fliss, and her sisters Nellie and Lizzie discover they have inherited a house in France. So they set off to see it but it’s not a nice little house it’s a chateau with a sitting tenant and bills to be paid. The story the unfolds in a delightful if slightly predictable way
A lovely warm-hearted read, perfect for curling up by the fire on a cold day.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️