Sunset in st tropez by Danielle Steel

Book Summary

Sunset in St. Tropez (2003) is a contemporary fiction novel by bestselling author Danielle Steel that follows the intertwined lives of three longtime couples whose friendship is tested and transformed during a summer holiday on the French Riviera.

The story begins in New York City, where Diana and Eric Morrison and their close friends — Pascale and John Donnally and Anne and Robert Smith — are celebrating New Year’s Eve and make plans to spend the summer together in St. Tropez. But soon after, tragedy strikes when Anne unexpectedly dies, leaving the group heartbroken. Despite their grief, the friends persuade Robert to join them on the much-anticipated trip.

Once in St. Tropez, the villa they rented turns out to be far from the dream home they expected, and tensions arise — especially when Robert brings along a much younger movie actress as his guest, causing jealousy and conflict among the women. As the summer unfolds beneath the radiant sunsets of the French Riviera, the friends reveal secrets, face old wounds, and discover new surprises. Through shared laughter, heartbreak, forgiveness, and unexpected romance, each couple experiences personal growth and transformation.

At its heart, the novel is about enduring friendships, grief and healing, rediscovery of love, and the hope that can emerge from life’s hardest moments.

About the Author: 

Danielle Steel (born August 14, 1947) is an American author famous for her romantic and family-oriented novels, many of which explore relationships, love, personal struggles, and emotional resilience.

• Steel is one of the world’s most widely read authors, with hundreds of millions of copies of her books sold globally and more than 90 international bestsellers.

• Her work spans literary fiction, romance, contemporary life stories, and memoir, and she often writes about the complexities of human relationships, tragedy, and redemption.

• Beyond novels like Sunset in St. Tropez, her notable works include His Bright Light (a memoir about her son), A Gift of Hope, Pure Joy, and numerous acclaimed novels that have made the New York Times bestseller list.

• Steel’s books are known for being emotionally engaging, accessible, and reflective of real-life experiences and challenges, making her one of the most beloved contemporary storytellers.