Book 1
Synopsis: Diane seems to have the perfect life. She is a wife, a mother, and the owner of Happy People Read and Drink Coffee, a cozy literary cafe in Paris. But when she suddenly loses her beloved husband and daughter in a tragic car accident, the world as she knows it instantly vanishes. Trapped and haunted by her memories, Diane retreats from friends and family, unable and unwilling to move forward.
But one year later, Diane shocks her loved ones and makes the surprising decision to move to a small town on the Irish coast, finally determined to heal and rebuild her life alone—until she meets Edward, the attractive yet taciturn Irish photographer who lives next door. At first abrasive and unwelcoming, Edward initially resents Diane’s intrusion into his life of solitude . . . until he can no longer keep her at arm’s length, and they fall into a surprising and tumultuous romance. But will it last when Diane leaves Ireland, and Edward, for the home she once ran away from in Paris? At once heartbreaking and uplifting, Diane’s story is deeply felt, reminding us that love remembered is love enduring.
Review: At first glance, this novel is not my type. The French cover does not attract me necessarily, the reviews on goodreads are not very good… But when my friend Céline offers me something, I know that I have to get past these things and get into the story and I confess that I’m really happy about it.
Agnès Martin-Lugand presents a very touching story here, a story of reconstruction, a story that is not really simple. Diane is a young woman who has lost everything, her daughter, her husband and since this loss, she can no longer live and she remained outside society for more than a year, with only the visits of her friend, Felix. But as he continues to try to open her to the world, Diane decides one day to leave for Ireland, the country her husband has always wanted to visit.
Yes, it’s a story of reconstruction and I confess that I cried several times when I discovered the story, seeing her suffering and despair. And yet, leaving France will help her to move forward, to discover other people and to open up. I know that many people were disappointed by the end, but I think it could not be otherwise. It could not be anything else. But there is a second volume, and I am now very impatient to read it!
Sophia Rose
That title sure caught my attention. Glad you gave it a chance and ended up liking it.
Melliane
thanks it was a good one
Lorna
It seems to be really sad so I don’t know. But then the ending isn’t good? Not for me I don’t think. I will wait and see what you think is the sequel. Great honest review!
Melliane
the end was fenitely good it’s just not an happy ending like many would have wanted it
kindlemom1
I love books that can bring out emotions in me! So glad this was such a touching read for you, love when that happens!
Melliane
yes it was really touching
herding cats
Oh wow! Nice when one surprises you like that in a good way 🙂
Melliane
right?
ShootingStarsMag
That’s great you enjoyed this one. I’m curious about this ending now…haha
-Lauren
Melliane
lol
Kimberly @ Caffeinated Reviewer
I can confirm that the title is true. LOL
Melliane
lol
Joy // Joyousreads
That is quite a mouthful of a title. 🙂 I’m glad you enjoyed it despite it not being your type of read. Sometimes, we just need to go for it.
Sounds like a lovely novel, angst and all.
Melliane
right? it’s always interesting to try different things
Braine
I’ve been reading a lot of similar novels like this because of the emotional connection. I’m happy you ended up loving this one despite your reservations
Melliane
oh you’re back!!!!
Jenea’s Book Obsession
Oh wow, this sounds like it would be an emotional read at first, but a lovely story in the end. Great review.
Melliane
yes it is
Mary Kirkland
That sounds like a very emotional read.
LilyElement Book Reviews
I love it when a book I don’t think I’ll enjoy too much winds up making me love it 🙂
Heidi
How very different the covers are. Sounds like this one touched you emotionally.; I hope the second is just as good.
Melliane
right?
Melanie Simmons
I think it is always more fun when you go into a book a bit hesitant, but then you love it. It is always great when book friends find those books for you. Glad this one worked out for you.
Melliane
yes it’s the best!
Carole Rae
I’m glad you ended up giving it a chance and you liked it so much!
Mogsy @ BiblioSanctum
At first glance this probably wouldn’t be my type of novel either, but since you thought that at first and it surprised you, I guess I should not be so quick to judge! The synopsis does sound quite fun and interesting.
Melliane
me neither. sometimes we had to try. it’s just that it’s not about a romance and many thought so
Greg
This does sound good actually, and I kinda like the cover. Glad this was a good one for you!
Melliane
thanks
Carole @ Carole's Random Life in Books
I am so glad you liked this one even though it didn’t initially appeal to you. I love it when a book is able to really touch you. Great review!
Kathy
Well, I am not a bookish person! Less often I read novels. But the title and cover of this book attracted me. And really it is containing a very realistic story. It touched my heart. The end was good.
Sarah R
Rien a voir avec la couverture française ! La couverture française est déprimante alors que celle-ci est “joyeuse” !
Melliane
C’est drôle de voir les différences parfois