I took this with me on a much needed holiday a few weeks ago. I had been looking forward to devoting the time to losing myself in an entertaining read as my life is such that at present with the caring responsibilities I have to carry out, I don't get much 'me' time where I can read uninterrupted. This book did not disappoint, from the moment I started reading I didn't want to put it down. It was funny, very entertaining and made me laugh out loud (much to my husband's annoyance as he wanted to know what had happened every time I started laughing). I was sad to finish it so would just ask the author to please write MORE!! Frivolity over I had to turn to my next holiday read - back to reality with the factual book 'Contented Dementia' which was a lot easier for me to tackle once I had blown the cobwebs away by preceding it with 'Croissants and Jam' Reviewed By~JoAnneReview Copy Provided By~AuthorThis book was a fun read that kept my interest throughout with lots of outright belly laughter (by me) along with some tears. A lot of the book was set in England, France and Italy while alluding to New York as well and by some of the descriptions you felt like you were there with them in Europe, especially in the French countryside. The scenic descriptions were vivid and you could even taste some of the food and wine of which croissants and jam played a big part hence the title. There was a happily ever after but not what I expected and it took a very long time to get there. Chris and "Bels" were always in each others way, on different wavelengths much of the time, but you could tell how well they would fit together as a couple. Almost from the beginning you knew who they were even though they never fully introduced themselves but there were lots of clues that gave their connection away. I would have loved the book to continue on a little longer to see the "love story" play out, but it was not to be. I have not read books by this author before but will definitely look for others to add to my to be read pile. It was reminiscent to me of the "Rather" books by C.A. Belmond which I also enjoyed.Favorite Quote: "Actually, I would like the Chianti Velaruse please. It is a delicate wine with a hint of vanilla and raspberry and a touch of black pepper. It goes well with pasta, I think," I say, recalling Luciano's exuberant description from the vineyard this morning. "Here, here," echo's Christian. Simon turns to me, his eyes blazing.
What do You think about Croissants And Jam (2012)?
An amusing story with beautiful scenery. A great bit of escapism.
—sanata
LOVED this...wish I could give it more than 5 stars! It was fab!
—Matt
First book I have read of Lynda Renham's, fab!
—_nancyxo
