Brews, Books & BFFs

The Champagne Letters by Kate Macintosh

Champagne Letters by Kate Macintosh is a wonderfully written dual-timeline story that beautifully connects two inspiring women: Barbe-Nicole Clicquot, a 19th-century champagne pioneer, and Natalie Taylor, a modern journalist searching for herself after heartbreak. Their stories are woven together so seamlessly, and honestly, I couldn’t put it down. 🥂✨

Barbe-Nicole’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. In the face of war, personal loss, and societal expectations, she forges her way into the male-dominated champagne industry with determination and grit. Her story is both empowering and fascinating. On the other hand, Natalie’s modern-day narrative is equally moving. After her marriage falls apart, she travels to France to start over and stumbles upon Barbe-Nicole’s letters. These letters not only uncover a rich history but also help Natalie rediscover her own strength and purpose. Both women remind us that even in the face of adversity, it’s possible to create something beautiful and meaningful. 💪🍾

Kate Macintosh does an incredible job bringing 19th-century France to life, painting vivid scenes of Barbe-Nicole’s world. Natalie’s journey adds a relatable, modern perspective that makes this story feel fresh and timeless all at once. Together, Barbe-Nicole and Natalie show that perseverance, self-discovery, and hope are universal—no matter the era.

If you love stories about strong heroines, historical intrigue, and personal growth, Champagne Letters is a must-read. It’s the perfect blend of inspiration and heart. I adored every page!

Have you read Champagne Letters? Let me know your thoughts!

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐️
Spice Level: 🌶️

Blurb:

Perfect for fans of bubbly wine and Kristin Harmel, this historical fiction novel follows Mme. Clicquot as she builds her legacy, and the modern divorcee who looks to her letters for inspiration.

Reims, France, 1805: Barbe-Nicole Clicquot has just lost her beloved husband but is determined to pursue their dream of creating the premier champagne house in France, now named for her new identity as a Veuve Clicquot. With the Russians poised to invade, competitors fighting for her customers, and the Napoleonic court politics complicating matters she must set herself apart quickly and permanently if she, and her business, are to survive.

In present day Chicago, broken from her divorce, Natalie Taylor runs away to Paris. In a book stall by the Seine, Natalie finds a collection of the Widow Clicquot’s published letters and uses them as inspiration to step out of her comfort zone and create a new, empowered life for herself. But when her Parisian escape takes a shocking and unexpected turn, she’s forced to make a choice. Should she accept her losses and return home, or fight for the future she’s only dreamed about? What would the widow do?

XOXO,
Jessica

The Champagne Letters by Kate Macintosh
Published on December 10, 2024
Genres: Historical Fiction
Pages: 352
Rating: 5 Stars

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Purchase on Bookshop.org