NEW RELEASE
Tout Sweet - Karen Wheeler (2009)
While visiting a friend in rural France, fashion and beauty journalist Karen Wheeler stumbles upon a small cottage that is for sale and in need of quite a bit of TLC. The thought of giving up her lush life in London and starting over in France is too much to pass up, so Karen buys the house on a whim after seeing it only once. She waits a year to move in, during which she has a falling-out with her only friend in France. Having no experience with house renovation, Karen stumbles through the DIY process while staying with a couple of new-found friends who own a bookshop in town (luckily, people in rural France seem very friendly and helpful). When she feels she has overstayed her welcome, she moves into a small motel until she can make at least one room in her new home inhabitable. Karen made such a big change in her life partly due to the end of her relationship with her long-time boyfriend, Eric. Now, the chances of her finding another man are slim - some of her suitors range from being married to being completely deranged. Besides the renovations (which can sometimes be quite hilarious as things inevitably go wrong) and the occasional dinner at a friend's house, Karen enjoys seeing what her village has to offer. Vividly written - so much so that you can picture yourself in Karen's shoes, standing in the market square surrounded by the loud chatter of the locals and the fragrant aroma of freshly baked bread. It is written as if it is being told to you by an old friend, and it's bursting at the seams with humour, adventure and an authentic voice in reality chick lit. A wonderful and inspiring read for anyone who craves a little change in their life but can't bring themselves to make it. After reading Karen's story you may just be brave enough to go ahead. (AS)
