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False Start Fairy Tale
Adèle Villeneuve is attempting the impossible. At twenty-four she’s opened an events company in her small French village, which at last count has a population of 1501. Even her parents tried to stop her. But Adèle has a plan. Or, at least she did.
Then the Reniers returned to town.
Aside from the dilapidated chateau that’s sat in ruin for the past forty years, Saint-Germain is known for one other thing: a bitter feud between the Reniers and the Villeneuves that has gone on for so long no one remembers how it started. It’s practically folklore, a hatred so deep it ended with the Reniers leaving France back in the eighties, never to be seen or heard from again.
Until now.
With the feud reignited, Adèle’s quiet life is upended. Even more so when she finds out that the Reniers are not only refurbishing the chateau but also opening a competing events company. When Finn Renier, the alluring son of her father’s enemy, offers her a truce that could save her business, she makes a decision that goes against her family, a choice that changes everything.
As she finds herself falling for the one person she’s not supposed to, secrets and lies become entangled, a dangerous truth threatening to be revealed.
Because Finn isn’t all that he seems.
And the Reniers didn’t just return to Saint-Germain for a fresh start.
Then the Reniers returned to town.
Aside from the dilapidated chateau that’s sat in ruin for the past forty years, Saint-Germain is known for one other thing: a bitter feud between the Reniers and the Villeneuves that has gone on for so long no one remembers how it started. It’s practically folklore, a hatred so deep it ended with the Reniers leaving France back in the eighties, never to be seen or heard from again.
Until now.
With the feud reignited, Adèle’s quiet life is upended. Even more so when she finds out that the Reniers are not only refurbishing the chateau but also opening a competing events company. When Finn Renier, the alluring son of her father’s enemy, offers her a truce that could save her business, she makes a decision that goes against her family, a choice that changes everything.
As she finds herself falling for the one person she’s not supposed to, secrets and lies become entangled, a dangerous truth threatening to be revealed.
Because Finn isn’t all that he seems.
And the Reniers didn’t just return to Saint-Germain for a fresh start.
320 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 9, 2020
About the author
Kelly St-Laurent
3 books22 followersFrom the moment when she believed that the worlds inside the television were real, Kelly St-Laurent has run away with her imagination.
Born in one of the most beautiful corners of the planet, she spent her childhood inspired by the mountains and oceans of New Zealand, constantly wondering about the places beyond the horizon. At age nineteen she decided to find out and hopped a plane to Canada. And, so began her love affair with the Great White North, that has come to be her second home.
Prior to writing her first novel in 2016, Kelly worked as a production coordinator in visual effects where she got to help bring fairies, dragons and monsters to life.
Kelly currently lives in Montreal with her husband, daughter, and their Shetland Sheepdog Bucky. When she isn’t writing, she’s often found re-watching her favorite films with a wine in hand.
She still believes the world inside her television is real.
Born in one of the most beautiful corners of the planet, she spent her childhood inspired by the mountains and oceans of New Zealand, constantly wondering about the places beyond the horizon. At age nineteen she decided to find out and hopped a plane to Canada. And, so began her love affair with the Great White North, that has come to be her second home.
Prior to writing her first novel in 2016, Kelly worked as a production coordinator in visual effects where she got to help bring fairies, dragons and monsters to life.
Kelly currently lives in Montreal with her husband, daughter, and their Shetland Sheepdog Bucky. When she isn’t writing, she’s often found re-watching her favorite films with a wine in hand.
She still believes the world inside her television is real.
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Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
April 26, 2020
This is my first book of Kelly's and I DO have The Sea of Lost Things as well so I'm excited to read that one too. That first chapter made me sad but in a good way because Kelly really showed the emotions from Mae and Tom. Finn and Adele, love this couple. What I was not expecting was the past some of these people had, and I'm leaving it at that because I don't want to spoil the story. Lets just say it was unpredictable and the pace was good.
I really love this cover too.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I really love this cover too.
I received this book at my request and have voluntarily left this unbiased review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
May 31, 2020
False Start Fairy Tale is like a modern-day Romeo and Juliet without all the tragedy and death. When Adele Villeneuve, owner of the only events company in her small French hometown, learns that her family’s arch enemies, the Reniers, are returning to open and events-company, she is determined that they won’t run her out of business. As Adele and Finn work together instead of against each other, there seems like there could be hope for both businesses and families.
However, the more she gets to know Finn, the more she questions the old feud and everything she knows about her family and the Renier’s. Can Adele and Finn heal the wounds of the past and have a future together, or will the rivalry ruin their chances?
Oh my word, the enemies-to-lovers romance! The chemistry between Adele and Finn is fantastic! They know that their love is forbidden, and yet they are drawn together. Finn hesitates, not wanting to put Adele’s life at risk because of his dark past. Adele also tries to fight her feelings because of the family feud. However, their feelings for each other prove stronger than their misgivings.
Though the romance between Adele and Finn is the highlight of the book, the mystery of the Villeneuve-Renier feud is also worth mentioning. Like Romeo and Juliet, no one really remembers how it began, and yet it still continues. It is interesting to see how different sides have different stories of what occurred in the past.
I also appreciated the strong messages presented. Facing one’s past, choosing love, trying to live up to parental expectations, exposing and moving on from the truth of the past, and learning one’s self-worth are all woven into the story in a powerful and meaningful way.
This is a great contemporary romance with a sexy love story, a decades-old feud, a quaint and close French setting, and strong themes of love, family, and community. Though it is my first Kelly St-Laurent books, it sure won’t be my last!
https://onebookmore.com/2020/05/31/ar...
June 9, 2020
Hands down one of the sweetest, most romantic story I have read this year! My heart is overflowing with love!
Adele and Finn’s story is one full of angst, laughter, family and most importantly forgiveness! The heat between these two was felt from the second they met! Each interaction only heightened the desire and when they finally caved to the heat it was felt through the pages!
I loved more than anything how the author weaved the past into the present! Finn and Adele’s fates weren’t their own but no matter how they felt deep inside the pains of the past could not be forgotten! What seems like an impossible love just might get it’s chance but they will have to face more than their family names to get what they desire most; a future!
I loved how Adele and Finn balanced one another out! She was the light to his darkness! The balm over his pain but he was her strength and his love was everything she’d ever dreamed of! I could gush over and over again about this amazing book but it has to be experienced! You have to feel their love and experience this crazy beautiful tiny town and all the amazing people in it!
Adele and Finn’s story is one full of angst, laughter, family and most importantly forgiveness! The heat between these two was felt from the second they met! Each interaction only heightened the desire and when they finally caved to the heat it was felt through the pages!
I loved more than anything how the author weaved the past into the present! Finn and Adele’s fates weren’t their own but no matter how they felt deep inside the pains of the past could not be forgotten! What seems like an impossible love just might get it’s chance but they will have to face more than their family names to get what they desire most; a future!
I loved how Adele and Finn balanced one another out! She was the light to his darkness! The balm over his pain but he was her strength and his love was everything she’d ever dreamed of! I could gush over and over again about this amazing book but it has to be experienced! You have to feel their love and experience this crazy beautiful tiny town and all the amazing people in it!
May 2, 2020
This book exceeded all expectations I could have. I was so invested in all the characters since they were really well developed.
It didn't feel like the book dragged on for too long as I kept hooked to the development.
Can't recommend this enough, so well written!!!
An e-copy of this book was kindly provided to me by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
It didn't feel like the book dragged on for too long as I kept hooked to the development.
Can't recommend this enough, so well written!!!
An e-copy of this book was kindly provided to me by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
June 12, 2020
Thank you NetGalley for providing a copy!
Synopsis:
Adèle Villeneuve is attempting the impossible. At twenty-four she’s opened an events company in her small French village, which at last count has a population of 1501. Even her parents tried to stop her. But Adèle has a plan. Or, at least she did.
Then the Reniers returned to town.
Aside from the dilapidated chateau that’s sat in ruin for the past forty years, Saint-Germain is known for one other thing: a bitter feud between the Reniers and the Villeneuves that has gone on for so long no one remembers how it started. It’s practically folklore, a hatred so deep it ended with the Reniers leaving France back in the eighties, never to be seen or heard from again.
Until now.
With the feud reignited, Adèle’s quiet life is upended. Even more so when she finds out that the Reniers are not only refurbishing the chateau but also opening a competing events company. When Finn Renier, the alluring son of her father’s enemy, offers her a truce that could save her business, she makes a decision that goes against her family, a choice that changes everything.
As she finds herself falling for the one person she’s not supposed to, secrets and lies become entangled, a dangerous truth threatening to be revealed.
Because Finn isn’t all that he seems.
And the Reniers didn’t just return to Saint-Germain for a fresh start.
This was my first book of this author so I didn't know what to expect. But, it was an amazing story that got you hooked from the very start.
The characters are well developed and likeable, and the main characters have an amazing chemistry. All the supporting characters are very interesting as well.
I enjoyed reading it!
False Start Fairy Tale is a must read for your 2020 romance list because it's a beautiful romantic story that will leave you breathless.
My rating: 5/5
Synopsis:
Adèle Villeneuve is attempting the impossible. At twenty-four she’s opened an events company in her small French village, which at last count has a population of 1501. Even her parents tried to stop her. But Adèle has a plan. Or, at least she did.
Then the Reniers returned to town.
Aside from the dilapidated chateau that’s sat in ruin for the past forty years, Saint-Germain is known for one other thing: a bitter feud between the Reniers and the Villeneuves that has gone on for so long no one remembers how it started. It’s practically folklore, a hatred so deep it ended with the Reniers leaving France back in the eighties, never to be seen or heard from again.
Until now.
With the feud reignited, Adèle’s quiet life is upended. Even more so when she finds out that the Reniers are not only refurbishing the chateau but also opening a competing events company. When Finn Renier, the alluring son of her father’s enemy, offers her a truce that could save her business, she makes a decision that goes against her family, a choice that changes everything.
As she finds herself falling for the one person she’s not supposed to, secrets and lies become entangled, a dangerous truth threatening to be revealed.
Because Finn isn’t all that he seems.
And the Reniers didn’t just return to Saint-Germain for a fresh start.
This was my first book of this author so I didn't know what to expect. But, it was an amazing story that got you hooked from the very start.
The characters are well developed and likeable, and the main characters have an amazing chemistry. All the supporting characters are very interesting as well.
I enjoyed reading it!
False Start Fairy Tale is a must read for your 2020 romance list because it's a beautiful romantic story that will leave you breathless.
My rating: 5/5
May 27, 2020
I enjoyed Adele and Finn’s story. This is my first book from this author and she kept me interested enough that I’ll definitely be reading more from her!
April 26, 2020
This book is amazing. From the first few chapters I was hooked to the characters and the story. The book starts with a mystery, and throughout the story, along with the characters, you get clues and start putting together what happened, why these families have this 80-year-long feud.
The characters are well developed and likeable, and the main characters have an amazing chemistry. All the supporting characters are very interesting as well. You know enough about their backstory to understand why they are doing or thinking.
I loved the writing, the story didn't drag at any point. I admit that I read the book in one sitting because I was so into it. I loved the characters and the relation between the families, the mystery of what happened is interesting. Each chapter you learn a little detail leaves you wanting more, so you have to read the next chapter. The story ended with a loving epilogue, so we are not left wandering what happened to the characters.
This book packs it all: romance, mystery, drama, some action/crime, some unexpected twists. It got me to sigh, to cry and to laugh out loud. The only problem is that it ends. I could spent a lot of time reading more about all the characters. I will definitely be reading more books from this author!
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
The characters are well developed and likeable, and the main characters have an amazing chemistry. All the supporting characters are very interesting as well. You know enough about their backstory to understand why they are doing or thinking.
I loved the writing, the story didn't drag at any point. I admit that I read the book in one sitting because I was so into it. I loved the characters and the relation between the families, the mystery of what happened is interesting. Each chapter you learn a little detail leaves you wanting more, so you have to read the next chapter. The story ended with a loving epilogue, so we are not left wandering what happened to the characters.
This book packs it all: romance, mystery, drama, some action/crime, some unexpected twists. It got me to sigh, to cry and to laugh out loud. The only problem is that it ends. I could spent a lot of time reading more about all the characters. I will definitely be reading more books from this author!
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 6, 2020
I knew from the moment I saw the cover with Chateau de Cheverny that I had to read this book, so I was very excited to receive an advanced copy from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
As stated I absolutely love the cover. I went to France in March and was able to visit Cheverney so I love that the image was used for the fictional chateau in the story. I had not read a book by Kelly St-Laurent so I didn't have any expectations good or bad for this book. I devoured this book reading it in essentially one sitting on a Sunday afternoon.
I found the romance between Adele and Finn very sweet, fun, and believable. I loved the seamless transitions between the character's POVs and their banter back and forth especially early on in the book. The book had moments where it reminded me of Laura Florand's La Vie en Rose series. When I read the scene at the B&B I figured they had to be characters from another book and they do appear to be in The Sea of Lost Things which I now want to read. I hope there will be other books that tie into this one.
The only thing I really did not love was Finn's backstory. I like my characters flawed but it seemed more like a major red flag that I don't think most people would so easily forgive. However it was well written and did not seem like an afterthought and clearly I enjoyed the book as a whole.
As stated I absolutely love the cover. I went to France in March and was able to visit Cheverney so I love that the image was used for the fictional chateau in the story. I had not read a book by Kelly St-Laurent so I didn't have any expectations good or bad for this book. I devoured this book reading it in essentially one sitting on a Sunday afternoon.
I found the romance between Adele and Finn very sweet, fun, and believable. I loved the seamless transitions between the character's POVs and their banter back and forth especially early on in the book. The book had moments where it reminded me of Laura Florand's La Vie en Rose series. When I read the scene at the B&B I figured they had to be characters from another book and they do appear to be in The Sea of Lost Things which I now want to read. I hope there will be other books that tie into this one.
The only thing I really did not love was Finn's backstory. I like my characters flawed but it seemed more like a major red flag that I don't think most people would so easily forgive. However it was well written and did not seem like an afterthought and clearly I enjoyed the book as a whole.
June 7, 2020
This is definitely a book to treasure. I found myself reading late into the night, wanting to read on but not to finish. I so enjoyed this book and found the romance and all the history of the two families fascinating.
After the first chapter, which will have you hooked, the book alternates between Adele Villeneuve, the owner of an events company in her hometown of Saint-Germain and Finn Renier, the son of her father’s hated enemy. From their very first encounter, Adele and Finn are destined to repeat the events that torn apart any romance between these two families.
I loved the past story, which was slowly revealed, as well as the story behind Finn and his family’s sudden return to their family home. Both characters tell the story and I loved how the relationship developed despite the many setbacks that they faced. Finn, whilst trying to bring Adele out of her shell, is ridden with guilt. I thought that his character was complemented by Adele, who whilst serious, is so caring of everyone that she meets. In many ways, each plays a pivotal role in bringing this story forward and making it the great romance story that it is.
This is the first time that I have read a book by this author, but I will definitely be adding her to my list of authors to follow.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
After the first chapter, which will have you hooked, the book alternates between Adele Villeneuve, the owner of an events company in her hometown of Saint-Germain and Finn Renier, the son of her father’s hated enemy. From their very first encounter, Adele and Finn are destined to repeat the events that torn apart any romance between these two families.
I loved the past story, which was slowly revealed, as well as the story behind Finn and his family’s sudden return to their family home. Both characters tell the story and I loved how the relationship developed despite the many setbacks that they faced. Finn, whilst trying to bring Adele out of her shell, is ridden with guilt. I thought that his character was complemented by Adele, who whilst serious, is so caring of everyone that she meets. In many ways, each plays a pivotal role in bringing this story forward and making it the great romance story that it is.
This is the first time that I have read a book by this author, but I will definitely be adding her to my list of authors to follow.
I received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
March 23, 2020
Wow what a delightful read!
I love reading novels that unfold like a cinema in my mind and FSFT achieves this. Everything from the vivid details of the French setting to the build-up of chemistry between Adele and Finn and the depiction of the ongoing rivalry between the Villeneuves and Reiner family is so compellingly written that I couldn’t put this book down.
The thing I loved the most about this novel is the characters. Reading through the story Adele and Finn felt real. I was invested right from the beginning of their courtship and as the stakes got higher throughout the story the moments of suspense and tension had me on the edge of my seat.
This novel has so many elements - a wonderful, HOT romance, a long-standing family rivalry that reaches a breaking point, ghosts from a character’s past that catches up with them and a small, quaint French setting that serves as a perfect backdrop for this story of family loyalty and forbidden love. I especially loved how the theme of “if we burn, we burn together” is weaved through Adele and Finn’s love story.
False Start Fairy Tale is a must-read for your 2020 social distancing book list.
I love reading novels that unfold like a cinema in my mind and FSFT achieves this. Everything from the vivid details of the French setting to the build-up of chemistry between Adele and Finn and the depiction of the ongoing rivalry between the Villeneuves and Reiner family is so compellingly written that I couldn’t put this book down.
The thing I loved the most about this novel is the characters. Reading through the story Adele and Finn felt real. I was invested right from the beginning of their courtship and as the stakes got higher throughout the story the moments of suspense and tension had me on the edge of my seat.
This novel has so many elements - a wonderful, HOT romance, a long-standing family rivalry that reaches a breaking point, ghosts from a character’s past that catches up with them and a small, quaint French setting that serves as a perfect backdrop for this story of family loyalty and forbidden love. I especially loved how the theme of “if we burn, we burn together” is weaved through Adele and Finn’s love story.
False Start Fairy Tale is a must-read for your 2020 social distancing book list.
March 24, 2020
As Finn approaches the table, I feel my breath become unsteady. For all the confusion on my end, there's one thing that's become startlingly clear. Being Finn's enemy was so much simpler than being his friend.
Adèle Villeneuve is a determined woman, and one who is not easily swayed - especially when it comes to what matters to her most. But with the recent arrival of the Renier family (whom her family have been at war with for generations), her whole life has been thrown into a tangle. Will she be able to uphold the decades-strong feud, or will Finn Renier charm his way into her heart?
False Start Fairy Tale was a wonderful tale of love, family and the lengths we go for the ones we care about. A beautiful romance set in the charming town of Saint-Germain with twists and turns that will leave you breathless.
Adèle Villeneuve is a determined woman, and one who is not easily swayed - especially when it comes to what matters to her most. But with the recent arrival of the Renier family (whom her family have been at war with for generations), her whole life has been thrown into a tangle. Will she be able to uphold the decades-strong feud, or will Finn Renier charm his way into her heart?
False Start Fairy Tale was a wonderful tale of love, family and the lengths we go for the ones we care about. A beautiful romance set in the charming town of Saint-Germain with twists and turns that will leave you breathless.
February 16, 2021
After so enjoying The Sea of Lost Things, I was really excited to read St-Laurent’s second novel. False Start Fairytale immediately fed my desire to travel, as St-Laurent paints a clear picture of Adele’s adorable French village and the chateau. As a huge Escape to the Chateau fan, I was delighted to learn that the author was inspired by that show and the DIY spirit. Adele is a character who likes to do it herself, and it was wonderful to see things through the eyes of such a talented event manager. And then there is Finn — swoon. At first I didn’t want to be taken away from Adele’s point-of-view, but then I would slip into Finn’s and not want to leave his. The format was really effective at endearing me to each character, and helping me understand how and why they fell in love - a spicy, hot love! What I liked most were the twists and turns of the narrative; it keeps you gasping until the end! And there’s even a link back to her previous novel that was so satisfying. Highly recommend!
April 27, 2020
I was drawn to this book by the pretty cover and happy that I tried it because the book is great. I’m a sucker for almost anything that takes place in France, but this was a great star crossed lovers romance. Adele & Finn are part of families who have have a family feud for almost 70 years. Of course we know they are going to fall in love, but there is a lot of great mystery and backstory to their family histories. Great modern day romance. I look forward to reading more books from this author!
Thank you Xpresso Book Tours for copy via NetGalley in exchange for honest review.
Thank you Xpresso Book Tours for copy via NetGalley in exchange for honest review.
August 17, 2020
This book was so much fun! I feel like this could be turned in such a cute movie and it would be iconic tbh.
The story is about Adele Villanauve and Finn Renier, who's families have been enemies for decades, even though none really knows exactly why, who fall in love and antics ensue. This has Romeo and Juliet written all over it, the difference being that the original doesn't hold a candle to this novel. As you can see, I really enjoyed it! :))))
If you like fast-paced stories with lovable characters and a great romance, try this one out!
The story is about Adele Villanauve and Finn Renier, who's families have been enemies for decades, even though none really knows exactly why, who fall in love and antics ensue. This has Romeo and Juliet written all over it, the difference being that the original doesn't hold a candle to this novel. As you can see, I really enjoyed it! :))))
If you like fast-paced stories with lovable characters and a great romance, try this one out!
September 9, 2020
Light, fun read with a dramatic twist. Amazing plot, wonderfully realistic characters and real emotion fill the pages of this book!
Adèle is running an events company in her small town when Finn and his family move back and look into opening an events company of their own. From the beginning you will love every character in this book and find yourself waiting impatiently for what happens next.
Thank you NetGalley and Kelly St-Laurent for this edition and hearing my honest review. Looking forward to reading more with you
#partner
Adèle is running an events company in her small town when Finn and his family move back and look into opening an events company of their own. From the beginning you will love every character in this book and find yourself waiting impatiently for what happens next.
Thank you NetGalley and Kelly St-Laurent for this edition and hearing my honest review. Looking forward to reading more with you
#partner
December 20, 2020
I enjoyed this book; it was completely a romance which I guess I didn't realize when I got it; I thought it would be more of a women's fiction novel. It was still nice.
The story was told from Adele and Finn's alternating viewpoints. There was some language and a moderate blush factor as it is a romance. The story overall was nice and the writing was fine.
If you are looking for a nice romance set in the countryside of France, with a few small twists and turns but nothing crazy, you would enjoy this book a lot.
I received an ARC of this book as a reviewer for NetGalley.
The story was told from Adele and Finn's alternating viewpoints. There was some language and a moderate blush factor as it is a romance. The story overall was nice and the writing was fine.
If you are looking for a nice romance set in the countryside of France, with a few small twists and turns but nothing crazy, you would enjoy this book a lot.
I received an ARC of this book as a reviewer for NetGalley.
June 8, 2020
5 STARS
Second book I'm reading from Kelly and I have to say I'm impressed, she slowly becomes one of my favorite authors!I love her writing and her stories are captivating!The story was fast paced and hot!What I enjoyed the most was the characters and their connection!I loved them and I could feel their emotions!
Second book I'm reading from Kelly and I have to say I'm impressed, she slowly becomes one of my favorite authors!I love her writing and her stories are captivating!The story was fast paced and hot!What I enjoyed the most was the characters and their connection!I loved them and I could feel their emotions!
April 25, 2020
A well-written family feud story set in a charming town. Finn's character had more depth than expected.
Kindly received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Kindly received an ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
July 13, 2020
Fantastic Read!
Kelly does it again! Another wonderful and well written book that I couldn’t put down. A clearly incredibly talented author, I look forward to her next novel!
Kelly does it again! Another wonderful and well written book that I couldn’t put down. A clearly incredibly talented author, I look forward to her next novel!
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews