A twenty-six year old newlywed on the path to a prestigious legal career in London buys a decrepit, revolutionary-era ruin in the tiny Burgundian village of Magny-les-Villers. Was that split-second, life-altering decision profoundly wise or utterly insane? Find out in My Grape Escape – a story for anyone who’s imagined taking a U-Turn in life to seize their joy.
Great insight into another world with its interesting people and customs. Emotional roller coaster!
This is a great delight and a well written story. Having lived in France, this reader was deeply involved with the author and the characters making up her new world. Totally nostalgic, very funny, informative if you’re going to make a start in France, and for a bonus, this reader has a special attachment to Beaune, Burgundy, and the Clos de Vougeot. Loved the humor, the exasperation and the author’s amazing determination. Looking forward to more.
This book was an easy read and got me in the mood for my upcoming trip to France. Interesting to learn of the problems of renovating a French countryside home and then be able to see the photos of other renovated homes for rent by the author. Made we want to pack my bags!
Well written, fun story, descriptive and entertaining. A glimpse of the French countryside and attempts at restoration of an ancient home. Witty characters of all ages and personalities. A delightful book!
Really enjoyed this book. Had a lot of humor. Was disappointed to have it end
Mined similar territory as Under The Tuscan Sun but UTTS did it better. Meh.
The best-laid plans and educational attainments fall by the wayside when a newlywed couple buy a little stone farmhouse (built in 1789) near the groom’s home town in Burgundy. The Canadian bride receives a large check from her grandfather, who wants her to invest it in real estate. Her husband finds a nearby house for sale, and the couple loses their mutual hearts to beautiful old doors and views over vineyards. The French notion of real estate transactions, coupled with a little double-dealing by a notary, nixes the first purchase. Hearts broken, the couple regroups to view an old house in a nearby village. “It’s hideous,” was the comment of the bride, who does not want to fall for the house; she has plans for a legal career. Still, ancient hinges and latches intrigue her. As does an ancient cool cheese cupboard.
With five days to go before leaving France for better job prospects in Vancouver, the couple takes little time to investigate the condition of the house, although they recognize it as decrepit and humble. The price is twice the grandfather’s gift. The husband wants the house, and has the belief that the purchase will work out. Convinced that every journey starts with a first step, the bride agrees, to begin the hard work of making the relic of French Revolution days into a home – with rental potential.
Then, the reality of rehabilitation, when every improvement begun reveals a near-disaster to be resolved. A local handyman signs on, brings in help, and the project proceeds. Such projects can cement a relationship, or crush it.
This book is the first in the author’s four-book “Grape” series, so it’s not a spoiler to reveal that goals and deadlines are somehow met. The characters are interesting, and even captivating, for all their human frailties. A good read, well-written and pleasant.
I loved the French brought into the story. How true to buy an old house and have to deal with all the pitfalls.
It took me a while to get into it, but overall I’d say it is worth reading. It definitely is not your run of the mill book.
Definitely recommend this book. It’s been a while since I read it, but I have enjoyed every one of Laura’s books!
A real life story on refurbishing an old home in France.
Left me wanting more.
Difficult to get into the storyline!
An enjoyable story set in Europe of the craziness of old home rehab, small village culture, and living in another country. Enjoyable read. Life can be crazier than fiction.
Enjoyable read.
It seems authentically French. The characters are well portrayed- complex, diverse and quite interesting. I’ve spent quite a bit of time over several years in a small French village in a restored ruin and can’t tell you how lucky I feel, so of course I identify with this book. Whatever trials and tribulations we all have, it’s quite special to spend at least some time in a French village. Good read!
I enjoy reading non-fiction and about people’s lives and different experiences. The author is very real about the ups and downs of their remodeling project while in the middle of trying to figure out if she will proceed forward with the career path she has always thought she would follow. It was an enjoyable, relaxing read that allows you to live the experiences with the author.
enjoyed it
Really loved this book so much that I ordered the second one.
I loved this book