Christmas on the Riviera

Book excerpt: Christmas is a time for family and friends, but will the allure of the French Riviera be able to work its magic? As a toddler Elodie Jacques was abandoned by her mother and left in the care of her French grandmother, Gabriella in Dartmouth, Devon. Now 24 years old, Elodie struggles to reconcile the deep anger for the mother she has never since seen. When Gabriella unexpectedly announces she wants the two of them to spend Christmas and her 70th birthday in her home town of Juan-les-Pins in the South of France Elodie is thrilled. Gabriella meanwhile has her own ulterior motives for wanting to return after 40 years, a daunting homecoming potentially filled with memories, secrets and recriminations. With Juan-les-Pins pulsing with lights, decorations and the festive spirit, Christmas promises to be filled with fun. But when Elodie learns there is the possibility that her long absent mother may join them she hides her feelings behind a show of indifference and animosity. Will there be the reconciliation that Gabriella longs for - or will the spirit of Christmas fail to work its wonder? 'What isn't to love? You are taken on an incredible journey to the vibrant French Riviera, with all the colours, lights and traditions of Christmas beautifully combined with the joy of friendship and the possibility of new romance... ' Bestselling author Judy Leigh