Overview
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
First of all let me start with saying I LOVE THIS COVER!!
Diane has suffered a terrible loss. She is struggling to even get out bed! Through a determined will to live and survive, she moves to the coast of Ireland to heal. She realizes that life is worth living and she is worth giving life a chance.
Now, if you need a good book for one sitting, this is it. This is an uplifting tale about survival.
I immediately connected with Diane and her plight. I wanted her to overcome, succeed and learn to love again. She is a tough woman, she has some very depressed moments but, overall she pulls herself through.
Edward is her next door neighbor. I absolutely HATED Edward! I am completely shocked Diane develops a relationship with him. He is unapproachable, crass and downright scary at times. I feel like there is more to the story….you know…left for the sequel. I also understand he is a different character seen in a romance novel. He is NOT a knight I shining armor. So, kudos to the author for stepping out on a limb with this character. I am not saying he worked but, it was very different for a change.
I will definitely want to read the next installment just to see changes(if there are any) in Edward.
Good, quick read!
This is a wonderful review. I too, loooove the cover, but having lost a son myself, I don’t think I can read of the loss of a fictional character. I need to read happy books.
I totally understand!! I have trouble with some books myself. So so sorry for your loss
Thanks, Reeca. It’s been 11 years, but it is something a parent never gets over.
No……never!!!
Having lost a grandson three years ago I’ve gravitated to lighter fiction since then. I’m adding this title to my list though because of your review and, well, Ireland 🙂
Thanks so much!! So sorry for your loss!