You could take me to France in any book and id be all in. But this one goes in deep. A very quiet but also so powerful story takes you alongside our main character on a journey about her husband yes. But also a very important one for her right now too. For when Claires own life and career hits turmoil she doesnt think it could spiral anymore. She's lost her husband. So when a photograph strikes her to the gut she doesnt expect secrets to bring more shocks. She certainly cant predict what's to come. For a journeu Claire is now on to find out the truth and in many different ways.
Will it hurt. Maybe? Does she need to do this? Her fearful heart might say no. But she does it anyway. Her courage and determination is something else. When most likely we'd all want to turn away from.what could more heart ache.
In France the atmosphere brings me right back to the place I love. Debra captures it all. Sights,feelings, and the way the country lingers in its own special way.
Claire finds out many things when she arrives. She also gives back. She's an endearing character who you feel protective of from the start. I dont know how id face the same.
The other characters we meet in this book add so much to the charm and hold of it. Claire's great friend, little Luca and of course Gilbert who quiete but strong presence feels like kindness written through his pages.
This book is emotional. It feels wise and gentle but authentic and true.
What brings our characters together is one thing. What keeps them together is something beautiful to read.
I loved reading this book. How we might not start or go along with a basic happy ending here we come. These people face loss,confusion,fear in their moments. But life can also bring gifts, smiles, joining of hearts.
Things can take work. But things can also just feel like you never have to work at it at all. Truth. Home.love.

I love Debra Borchert’s historical fiction books, so I was so excited to see that she was dipping her toes in another genre. I had every confidence that I’d be entertained, learn something, and be impatient to finish and share my latest ‘must-read’ with others! Borchert delivered in spades.

Claire Didier has every reason to be overwhelmed by negativity, but she models for us the process of shifting her focus from dwelling on problems to seeking solutions. She takes her eyes off herself and her feelings of betrayal, and puts them on others, and in doing so, reminds readers that by doing this, we can have a powerful impact on our well-being.

I’ll be honest, I don’t think I could have pivoted and done what Claire did. I know I couldn’t get over the betrayal; I’d be high-centered on the speedbump and unable to move. It’s embarrassing to see what I can miss when I take this attitude. Claire’s steps to protect the innocent became steps in the pursuit of peace and contributed to harmony and love all around. As a result of her refocusing, Claire was able to love again. I appreciated the lesson on the importance of transmuting negativity.

Borchert’s books highlight her love of cooking. Expect to be tantalized with the gastronomic goodness of the festive season. In this book, the Canadian nun, Sister Georgette, takes the baton (wooden spoon) from Borchert and shares her love of the kitchen and of helping hurting souls. She was a wonderful addition to the story. I loved her purpose/role and know we’d have fun in the kitchen. I can’t wait to try her Fruit & Nut Holiday Cookies.

I also appreciated a later-in-life romance where the focus was on something other than sex.

This would make a great book club choice as there is so much to discuss!

If you are in the mood for a tender, charming holiday read that focuses on the reason of the season, don’t miss this one.

LOVE that cover!

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.