Beauchamp hall by Danielle Steel

"Beauchamp hall" by Danielle Steele  - TV show fantasy!

This book was published by Pan in 2018 and has 288 pages. 

Winnie, a dreamer, works in her home town. Now at 39 she is in relationship with Rob for 11 years, but she doesn't love him and marriage is not in consideration. One day her world comes crashing down with triple jeopardy. The only solace she finds is in a British TV show, a period drama, "Beauchamp hall". On a spur, she decides to visit England, where the show is being shot.

What will she find in England? Can a TV show heal her wounds? How long can Beauchamp hall run? Will Winnie run out of money? What role will she play?

At first glance the story appears absurd. A girl who has lost everything finding solace in a TV show, travelling to the location of shooting, no future plans. However, author breathes life in this apparently weak plot. She takes us on a unknown ride with Winnie. We get to know the people she meets, the happiness, the sorrow and romance she experiences and how her life takes twists and turns. Readers associate with Winnie. Another author might have messed it up, but not Danielle. She handles the story delicately, maintains decent pace and ensures that readers remain interested. 

The cast supports the story. Nigel, the tender but jealous lover. Margaret, the famous actress in love with a married man. Haversham siblings, all aristocracy and expensive lifestyle but no equivalent income. Her sister, nephew etc. However, Winnie is the central and most prominent character.

It's a story that you read, feel good about and forget. It won't remain in your literary memory for long. Kind of feel good family drama. 

There are no surprises or major twists in this story. It runs on expected lines. Final pairings are a little too convenient. Readers can smell the end from far away and as the story starts to taper off, readers simply know the end. 

Danielle Steele is one of the rare authors who does not write series or sequels to capitalize on past success. Each of her novel is a standalone novel. 

Why did I read this book? Author.

What I didn't like?  Lack of major twists and surprises. 

What did I like? Easy flow, steady pace. 

Recommend reading.