Book Review - Freya's French Farmhouse by Daisy James

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Title: Freya's French Farmhouse

Author: Daisy James

Format reviewed: Ebook

Source: Author supplied copy

Publisher: Self Published

Publication Date: 28th February 2023

Rating: 4 Stars

Welcome to Freya's French Farmhouse, the second book in a brand new series from the author of the Hummingbird Hotel series and the Cornish Confetti Agency series.

Escape to the French Riviera!

After losing her aromatherapy studio in the Blossomwood Bay fire, Freya Farnham finds herself at a loose end, especially when her trusty Renault decides that it’s time to head to the scrapyard in the sky. Now she has no excuse not to agree to her parents’ request to head to the pretty village of Saint-Julien to find out why her late Uncle Toby’s gorgeous French farmhouse isn’t selling, even when the real estate agent, Xavier Deschamps, advertises himself as "the best in the whole of Provence".

As soon as she arrives, Freya realises what the problem is, and so, with the help of handsome local car mechanic Jacques Jordan, she invests her last euro in a kaleidoscope of cleaning products and sets about transforming the drab and dusty dwelling into a chic and shiny château. Little did she know that in the process she would discover more about her family’s history than she bargained for.

Can she come to terms with her past? Or will the demons that have been snapping at her heels since childhood prevent her from seizing the chance to achieve a much-longed-for sense of belonging in the friendly community where she’s treated as one of their own?

Why not join Freya as she explores the lavender-infused Provençal countryside, and enjoy a trip filled with fun, fragrance, and delicious foodie treats with a dash of heart-warming romance thrown in for good measure!

Perfect for fans of Sandy Barker, Sue Roberts and Mandy Baggot.

I devoured this gorgeous story in just a few hours.  I love Daisy James' writing especially when there is a stunning setting to be had, and this little French village near Provence is gorgeous. 

I loved the descriptions of the farmhouse, and could picture it really clearly, and could smell the scents, as Freya mixes up aromatherapy oils and perfumes. 

This is the second book in the Blossomwood Bay series, and it can easily be read as a standalone as each book follows a different Blossomwood Bay beach hut business owner as they try to get back on their feet after a fire destroys all the beach huts.

I enjoyed getting to know Freya's backstory, as well as that of the french farmhouse.  I also enjoyed seeing how she started to get to know everyone in St Julien, and the new friends she was making.  There may even be a man that possibly attracts her interest despite being determined to stay clear of men. 

Where what she should have been staying clear of was Esme's baking skills, which shall we say are adventurous, and reminded me just slightly of Mrs Cropley from The Vicar of Dibley. 

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this story, it was full of French summery warmth, new friendships and some interesting sub plots. Another great addition to this series. Bring on the next book. 

Thank you to the author for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.