One Summer In Paris

Absolutely wonderful book about life getting stuck in a rut, having a life-altering change, and finding yourself again, all set over a summer in Paris. It's funny because I've never been interested in visiting Paris, but I've read a few books set in Paris and it always sounds like such a magical place that I may have to change that view! Grace lives in the States, is married to David and they have a daughter, Sophie, just about to go to college and fly the nest. Then David drops a bombshell on their dinner out for their 25th anniversary that he's having an affair with a 20-something friend of theirs. Grace has arranged an anniversary surprise for her and David to spend the summer in Paris and had everything booked, so she decided to take the trip on her own, something she would normally never contemplate. Audrey lives in London and shares her home with her Mother, who is a functioning alcoholic that Audrey always seems to be looking after, instead of the other way around. But her Mother has just married and so Audrey takes the opportunity to escape too and live a little, taking a job in a bookstore in Paris that includes accommodation, even though she can't speak French and had someone else fill in the application for her! Once in Paris Grace and Audrey meet when Grace is nearly robbed in the street and Audrey comes to her rescue, and from then on the completely different personalities and ages (Grace is 47 & Audrey is 18) start a fabulous friendship that helps both of them grow and blossom over their summer in Paris. There are some lovely side characters in Mimi, Grace's 90 year old unconventional grandmother, and Etienne, Audrey's co-worker who turns into a love interest, along with Grace's old love Philippe, who was the only character I wasn't that keen on, and it just all blends into a wonderful, laid back, journey through the summer that I never wanted to end. The ending with Mimi visiting Paris (and a few revelations) was so lovely, I definitely had a tear in my eye! I love Sarah Morgan's books anyway, but I think this is her best to date. Loved it!

There's something very special about having a Sarah Morgan book on my list; I just know I'm going to love it and as I work towards it I'm filled with that certainty - and I've never been disappointed! Grace is a planner; she has lists for everything, is very efficient and never forgets an occasion or a gift which needs to be organised. Very happily married to her soulmate, David, she arranges a very special gift for them both for their Silver Wedding Anniversary. What she couldn't have planned was that during their romantic restaurant meal, David announces than he wants a divorce. Stunned and hurt beyond measure, Grace retreats into herself until, encouraged by their daughter, she decide to enjoy the month long trip to Paris on her own. Audrey is a young English girl, ages with Grace's daughter Sophie, but her life is a world away from the safe cocoon Grace has created for her family. With no one to cosset and care for her, Audrey has carefully planned her summer escape to Paris as she is desperate to spread her wings and move away from the heavy responsibilities the finds herself with at home. Separately, these two women aren't making the most of their break from the usual routine, but after they get acquainted the world - or at least the city of Paris - is their oyster. The growing friendship between Grace and Audrey is something to savour; they each contribute a lot, but what they receive is monumental in changing both their lives and their outlook on life. This is a truly beautifully written story, and one which will make every reader yearn to spend a summer in the most romantic city in the world. In addition to Grace and Audrey, we also follow their families' along with the new - and old - friends who pop into their lives. An absolutely wonderful read, and one I have been completely immersed in, letting the descriptions wash over me in chilly Scotland! This isn't the touristy side of Paris, but a more realistic portrayal of a fabulous city and it's residents. I have loved everything about it and, as always, Sarah Morgan's writing flows easily and keeps the reader's interest from first to last. Such a sparkling read deserves no less than a full five, chubby stars and the highest recommendation I can give it. A superb light, happy read - with plenty of ups and downs - one which will put you in a super summery mood.

1st time reading a book from this author and I'll definitely be back!!! thoroughly enjoyable read