When thirty-year-old Elle Matheson sets out for the sun-soaked shores of the Île de Ré, all she has is a faded postcard and a longing to solve the mystery of her birth mother. Tucked away in the picturesque village of Chamillon, the Café Belle Vie and its charming owner, Charlie, quickly welcome Elle into their hearts.

Chasing a few small clues, Elle soon finds herself tangled in secrets, white lies, and unexpected moments of laughter. With her new friends rallying by her side—and Charlie offering more than just pain au chocolat—Elle discovers that sometimes the journey to family brings you home in ways you never imagined.

If you adore uplifting stories full of quirky characters, sunlit romance, and soul-searching in France, Café Belle Vie is your perfect escape. Pour yourself a coffee, settle in, and get ready to fall in love with life all over again!

Perfect for fans of Debbie Johnson, Zara Stoneley, and Debbie Macomber.

Karen Clarke writes bestselling romantic comedies, women’s fiction, and thrillers. Based in Buckinghamshire, she’s published multiple novels and over 300 stories. She loves audiobooks, dog-walking, and co-writes thrillers with Amanda Brittany.