The Island of Dreams

by Helen McGinn

The BRAND NEW read from Saturday Kitchen's Helen McGinn 'I was hooked from the start and raced through to the end, rooting for Martha the whole way. Wonderful' Sara Lawrence, Daily Mail

Martha is the youngest of three sisters and, in her mid-thirties, has the dubious honour of being the only one to call off a wedding at the last moment.

Now, feeling as if she’ll be single forever, and trying to keep her low opinion of her sister Iris’s fiancé to herself for risk of looking bitter, Martha needs a change of scene.

When she is given the opportunity of a holiday to Paxos it seems too good to turn down, though the idea of travelling alone is daunting. And when the trip to the Greek island gets complicated, Martha wonders if this has all been a mistake.

But soon the island and its residents start to work their magic on Martha, and when she meets single father Harry and his adorable son Milo, a new way of living is revealed in contrast with the drab routine of her life back home. How can Martha leave behind the warmth of the people, the freedom and the fun, not to mention Harry and Milo when it’s time for her to go home…

Let Helen McGinn magic you away to a world of sunshine and serenity, romance and relaxation. Perfect for fans of Erica James, Carol Kirkwood and Karen Swan.

Praise for Helen

'This is McGinn’s third novel and it’s her best yet. Packed full of emotional wisdom, heartbreak and hope and is particularly brilliant on the importance of friendship and taking things one day at a time. Wonderful — I loved it.' Daily Mail

'This is a lovely uplifting book that transported me away, firstly to the beautiful city of Rome and then to gorgeous Cornwall. It’s a moving and emotional story of families in all their messy wonderfulness, of people losing one another, and then coming together again - sometimes in unexpected ways. A hugely enjoyable family tale, it was exactly what I wanted to read at this time.' Louise Douglas

‘This Changes Everything is the perfect tonic. An uplifting, forget-about-everything-else read that I couldn’t put down. Romantic, emotional and page-turning, Helen McGinn’s debut novel can’t fail to cheer you up!' Zoe Folbigg

'I loved reading this book. I needed escapism and it gave me Rome, Cornwall and a family who immediately felt like old friends. I took it to the bath, to bed and had finished it within 24 hours. It was the perfect antidote to tough times.' Victoria Moore The Daily Telegraph

Readers love Helen

‘The author has one of those writing style that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. She has a way of grabbing the reader's attention and draw them into what proves to be one hell of a read.’

‘This book was a breath of fresh air. I basically couldn't put it down. I love Italy so a sprinkle of Florence in the middle was just perfect.’

‘A beautifully written book packed with gorgeous characters who just come to life with their vivid description.’

‘A great read with twists & turns. Characters you can believe in, made me want to go to Florence! Look forward to the next book.

Genres: Romance, Contemporary, Greece, Adult, Contemporary Romance

250 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 13, 2024

About the author

Helen McGinn is the author of The Knackered Mother’s Wine Club blog and book and spent almost a decade sourcing wines around the world as a supermarket buyer. She spent most of the next half-decade pregnant. She writes a weekly wine column for the Daily Mail and appears regularly on Saturday Kitchen and This Morning as a TV wine expert. Awards for her wine blog include Fortnum & Mason’s Online Drink Writer of the Year and Red Magazine’s Best Blogger. This Changes Everything is her debut novel.

Reviews

[BookishRaquel · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW

The Island of Dreams is a beautiful, heartwarming story. Martha called off her engagement because she didn't feel she loved her fiance enough. Her sister Iris is getting married, and Martha travels to her parents' home to help with preparations. Assisting with her sister's wedding is triggering for Martha. When Iris learns that her fiance kissed Martha, she cancels her wedding. Iris had already booked a honeymoon trip to Greece. Iris felt Martha could use a change in scenery, so she gifted the trip to her. While in Greece, Martha gets to know some locals, makes new friends, and stumbles upon a new love connection.

I enjoyed this story. The author included vivid, beautiful descriptions of Greece, and the characters were well-developed. The pacing was off a little, and I wanted an epilogue to learn more about Harry, Martha, and Milo's future. Overall, this was a good read. The Island of Dreams allowed me to escape reality and enjoy a cozy story with a happy ending.

Thank you, Helen McGinn, Boldwood Books, and NetGalley, for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for my honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.

[Madi Andrews · Rating 2 out of 5]

Everyone else seems to love this book but… the mc was lowkey irritating and the book lacked depth. Also, the writing and speech is so simple, doesn’t draw me in and I’m glad I’ve finished it tbh.

[Andrea · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not the longest of books but an enjoyable read all the same. I did feel it ended rather abruptly and would have loved to see what became of Martha, Harry & Milo

[Asha Shinde · Rating 1 out of 5]

This was probably one of the worst books I’ve read this year and that’s saying something.

Thought commentary as I read the book:

- Martha you should've fucking said something are you stupid??? You already know your family doesn't like Toby
- this plot is so stupid I'm sorry it's every single cliche imaginable
- All potential dramatic points are resolved stupidly quickly
- Martha is a pretty unlikable character ngl girlie has no personality
- Wow the male love interest has a "dark" past regarding his ex-partner and has been keeping a secret about her disappearance for almost 10 years but decides to tell Martha who he only met a few days ago!!!
- You don't fucking say you love someone who you only met a few days ago!!
- He's like 15 years older than you are you fucking stupid
- Of course Milo went missing
- Do you really think this is a good time Harry to tell her oh btw Spryos knows??? When you should be looking for your missing son???
- I'm sorry did this kid really run away because the woman he just met is leaving
- Once again this book is the biggest fucking rom con cliché ever
- You can't tell me you're planning to up and leave just like that?? God you're such an unlikeable character Martha
- You also literally cannot judge Asya for cutting and running when you're doing the same fucking thing???
- The fucking time jump???
- Harry would be a good internet stalker
- Anyways the ending sucks 0/10 would rate this 0 stars if I could so not worth the read

[Heather McGhie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This story was SO good but the ending felt so abrupt and left me wanting more. So disappointed.

[Emily john · Rating 3 out of 5]

didn't feel any emotion towards this book or characters really, i didn't think the romance was really there between the couple very bland and moved quickly, a lot of storylines also were just not mentioned again at the end, they were sort of left unfinished. and their reunion at the end was so quick and dull? like he travelled to another country to find her again and suddenly he's just living with the family like he's known them years? there's no hint towards their future after that, just a quick kiss and make up

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

Martha is the youngest of three sisters, in her mid-thirties, and the one that is known for calling off her wedding at the last minute. She is standing up for her sister Iris, when her fiancé tries to kiss her and propositions her. Martha isn't sure if she should tell Iris, but before she can, he tells Iris that Martha made a pass at him. Martha tells her the truth and after a struggle, she calls off the wedding. Iris offers her honeymoon trip to Martha as a sort of apology, and Martha is soon on her way to Greece. With a rocky beginning, she finally finds her way to the house that she was going to stay at. She meets several locals and begins to unwind. Meeting a handsome single father, Harry, through his adorable son Milo, she falls in love with the slower way of life, and a warmth that she doesn't have at home. How can she go home after falling in love with a place and it's people?

This was a wonderful trip to a small Greek island. Martha meets Milo when they are both abandoned when the ferry to the island is canceled and she hires a boat, then shares the ride with him. She meets his grandmother and they become friends. Martha loves Milo and he helps her get to know the area. He steals the story for me, he is absolutely adorable. When Martha and Harry initially meet, they are cautious, but eventually Milo loosens them up. Their relationship builds slowly, but there are secrets that Harry is keeping. As Martha begins to think that maybe she can have a relationship with this man, something else happens and another secret is exposed that might end their relationship before it begins. I enjoyed this story of love, family, secrets, personal growth and the people of Greece and their slower lives. Helen McGinn is an author I just discovered last year, but love her stories and will be reading more from her backlist. I did a read/listen and I liked both formats of this story. Emma Powell does a lovely job of narrating this story and added to my enjoyment.

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

Martha is in a family pickle, not of her own doing but she been offered the chance to spend a fortnight out of her six week holiday to escape to the sun, for free and alone. A chance for some soul searching and relaxation away from everything – the hustle and bustle of London, her family, her past… personally, I’d snap that up if I was her!!

A chance meeting sets Martha on the path that I accompanied her upon, getting herself a warm welcome from the locals. The time I spent with Martha was a bit of a rollercoaster but it was a warm and fuzzy one. I loved the routine she got herself into with her morning swims and meandering round the local town.

This book is not without its conflict mixed with a smidgeon of intrigue around a past disappearance which gave The Island Of Dreams a slight dark cloud over its feel good factor. That said, it tempered that fuzzy feeling I had which is a good thing. I need some intrigue or conflict as a contrast and McGinn gave me enough!

The Island Of Dreams is a wonderful escape to the idyllic island of Paxos. Reading this on a chilly February evening made me yearn for some sun on my skin, craving for some Vitamin D and ice cold drinks. McGinn has created a sublime trip to a world of peace and quiet, where the locals welcome Martha like an old friend. This was all I hoped it would be as a read and more. Pure escapism – loved it!

[Donna · Rating 3 out of 5]

Martha & Harry ❤️

💍When Martha’s older sister breaks off her engagement, she asks her to use the house she’s booked for her honeymoon on a Greek island for a two week solo getaway.

🚤Martha’s had her life on hold for the last few years after calling off her own engagement when she knew it just wasn’t right for her.

🏖️On the Paxos island, Martha settles into a restful holiday, but she is soon a part of the island community, taking 10 year old Milo under her wing, getting to know his grandmother Connie and spending time with his father, American journalist and author Harry.

👙This isn’t the first of Helen McGinn’s books I have read, and her others felt deeply personal, written from her heart. This story, while it has sad elements, feels much more lighthearted, with the Greek island holiday setting. I struggled with the instalove elements of Martha and Harry’s relationship. At times it felt like Martha was spending much more time getting to know Connie and Milo than the love interest himself. This would make a good beach read - lots of sun, sea and Greek food 🇬🇷

Read an eARC copy courtesy of Netgalley and the publisher
My rating 3/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Publication date 13 February 2024

[Connie N. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to NetGalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

This is a new-to-me author, and I liked this book very much. She immediately drew me into the story, and I connected to Martha right away because she was both genuine and vulnerable. She's had some difficulties, and she's on a Greek island to relax and be by herself. Of course, that doesn't happen. Despite her intentions, she finds herself involved with the locals, eventually realizing that she cares for the good-looking guy in the neighboring house. Harry is the mysterious stranger, but he and his engaging son get beyond her defenses. All of the characters were approachable, but the exotic setting made them seem more dreamlike, as though we were on a magical vacation with them. Secondary characters of Connie (Harry's MIL) and Milo (Harry's son) and various townsfolk, not to mention an interesting back story, added a lot of depth to what might otherwise have been a typical light-hearted romance. I will definitely look for more from this author because she was very easy to read.

[Katya · Rating 1 out of 5]

I didn't like the book, so I didn't finish it.
Up to 34% and I was done. I gave it a chance, but just didn't work.
It couldn't hold my attention. I think the plot was a bit off, some kind of sporadic and rushed.
Honestly, I didn't feel a connection with the main character and maybe that did for me.
Don't have a strong opinion about this book!
Just it wasn't for me!

[Pam Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a gorgeous setting for this escapist novel. The Greek sun seems so appealing and the sea shimmers away. Martha needs this escape. Despite her close family ties, she has tried to avoid being in her childhood home with its memories of her ex- fiance and her sister's wedding. You sense that Martha is ready for a change but not sure which direction to go in. She has tried to protect her heart and avoid amy entanglements.

The family who befriends Martha in Greece take her at face value and see such positives that she does not really see in herself. Her natural kindness draws people to her and she feels a sense of belonging in the community she meets. With a range of characters who add such colour to the story and strong central characters, this is an enjoyable read and perfect for holiday reading.

In short: escapist read
thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book

[Sarah Kingsnorth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helen McGinn - The Island Of Dreams.

This is the first book that I’ve read by Helen McGinn, and her books are a very pleasant discovery.

#TheIslandOfDreams is split between the Devon coast and the Greek island of Paxos.
Both settings have their charm, and are brought to life with vivid clarity by some lovely writing.

There is a lovely mix of characters in this story. Martha is likeable and deserves to find happier times.
Martha’s family are a heart warming bunch.
In Pacos, Martha meets some brilliant characters. Harry and Milo are both adorable.

#TheIslandEscape is a gorgeous story. It’s well written, charming and full of love and sunshine.
A perfect read when you need a hit of feel good in your life.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[Julie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am a massive fan of all things Greek, so this book had me from the start. I loved how the characters jumped off the page and ended up loving Martha’s English family just as much as the Greek setting. Milo is adorable, as is his dad!

I love stories which transport me to another place and this book did it so well I have now added Paxos to my bucket list. I’m sure it will see an influx of bookie fans next year.

[Corinne Rodrigues · Rating 4 out of 5]

Feeling disillusioned with her love life and harboring reservations about her sister's impending marriage, Martha is in need of a change. When the opportunity for a solo getaway to a Greek island arises, she hesitantly seizes it, despite her apprehensions about traveling alone. However, her initial excitement gives way to uncertainty as complications arise during her journey.

Yet, Paxos works its magic on Martha in unexpected ways. As she becomes acquainted with the island's charming residents and embraces its laid-back lifestyle, Martha discovers a newfound sense of freedom and joy that starkly contrasts with the monotony of her life back home.

Central to Martha's experience is her encounter with single father Harry and his delightful son Milo. Through her interactions with them, Martha glimpses a different path for herself—one filled with warmth, companionship, and possibility.

As Martha grapples with the inevitable prospect of returning home, readers are drawn into a tale of self-discovery, romance, and the transformative power of new experiences. Will Martha be able to leave behind the allure of Paxos, along with the captivating individuals she has met, or will she choose to embrace the island's gifts and chart a new course for her future?

"The Island of Dreams" is a poignant and evocative narrative that transports readers to a place where dreams are realized and destinies reshaped. With its vivid depiction of Paxos' idyllic landscapes and its endearing cast of characters, this novel captivates the reader from beginning to end.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Helen McGinn’s The Island of Dreams is a gorgeous romantic escape perfect for chasing the winter blues away.

With her sister Iris’s fiancé’s barbed comments ringing in her ear and the only one of her family to call off a wedding at the last minute, Martha is desperate for a change of scene. When the opportunity of a holiday in Paxos comes along, Martha jumps at the chance – even if it means having to face the daunting prospect of travelling alone! When the trip to the Greek island gets far too complicated, Martha wonders whether this holiday will turn out to be the biggest mistake of her life. However, the island quickly begins to work its magic on her.

When Martha meets single father Harry and his adorable son, Milo, a new way of living is revealed which is a stark contrast to her mundane existence back home. However, her time in Paxos is coming to an end leaving Martha to wonder whether she can leave the island’s warmth and magic – not to mention Harry and Milo – behind and head back home and continue living an unfulfilling life.

Helen McGinn’s The Island of Dreams is a compelling, emotional and absorbing tale of second chances, unexpected blessings and the magic of falling in love that is a complete and utter joy from beginning to end. With a wonderful heroine readers will relate to and plenty of drama and pathos to keep readers engrossed till the last page, The Island of Dreams is another must-read from Helen McGinn.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Patty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good story, 3.5 rounded up

When Martha’s sister Iris called off her wedding and offered the prepaid honeymoon in Greece to Martha, she hesitantly agrees. After all, it’s summer and her new job as department head at her school won’t start for a couple of months.

Greece means new adventures and letting go of the tension that teaching, the city and her own cancelled wedding held. Martha swims at sunrise, eats new foods and makes friends in the village. Along the trip she takes a small boy under her wing and escorts him to the island, winning the respect of his family and friends. When she meets his father Harry, she feels an attraction but when she learns more about Milos’ mother she is confused.

I liked the story, the setting is beautiful but I found Martha to be somewhat immature. I can’t give specifics because it would include spoilers. Overall a decent read and definitely for lovers of Greece.

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book but my opinions are my own.

[Coco · Rating 4 out of 5]

4* An excellent book to blow away the winter blues

In the middle of winter I couldn't resist this gorgeous book cover, the contents inside were pretty good as well. Expecting the rain outside my window to become snow, I whisked my mind away to sunny Paxos. A good plot and believable characters, a Greek island with sandy beaches and friendly welcoming people. And the descriptions of all that glorious food - I now can’t stop thinking about taramasalata.

I loved the story and didn’t want to put the book down. So why only a 4* rating? Because the ending was so abrupt, a solution found within the last few pages. For once I'd have liked an epilogue.

eARC generously supplied by Boldwood Books and NetGalley, this review is my personal, unbiased opinion.

[Trina Dixon · Rating 4 out of 5]

A perfect read for the winter months when you just want to feel the warmth of the sun on your face. Escape to the beautiful island of Paxos, along with Martha.
She's not had the easiest time, called off her own wedding and the feeling guilty about breakdown of her sisters relationship. Instead of going on her honeymoon, her sister Iris sends Martha instead, knowing that Martha's needs the break more than she does. Once there the relaxed vibe, the people and scenery soon have Martha feeling chilled. And the arrival of Harry may encourage her to feel love again.
This novel is pure escapism, vivid descriptions of Paxos, the food and surroundings enticing the reader to drop everything and book that holiday. A lighthearted read perfect for the beach

[Nana · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a story full of surprises, decisions that were made, and doing what was right for themselves. Oh, it did take courage, and there was doubt, but once decisions were made, they found out what was going to happen because of the decisions.
The story kept me reading, the writing made the emotions, the places, and the people come alive, so I felt it. This is a book that will take you on an adventure, that makes you feel like you are there. If you are like me and your vacations are through reading, then this is a must-read book.
I received an ARC from Boldwood Books through NetGalley.

[Jane Featherstone · Rating 3 out of 5]

I felt this book couldn’t make up its mind what it wanted to be and ultimately ended up with a rushed ending, without investing in the central characters enough to make a reader care about them. There was definitely scope to develop the character of Martha and help her explore her decisions, rather than become someone who simply jumps rashly without considering the wider implications. Ultimately, it felt like a good chunk of the story was missing, which had a lot of potential, before the rush to get the conclusion, which also felt it deserved more.

[Shari · Rating 4 out of 5]

The perfect escape from the winter months, a virtual vacation to Paxos, a small Greek Island. Loved all of the descriptions of the island and the yummy food. Loved the main character, Martha a single teacher on a trip by herself when she meets single dad, Harry and his son Milo. Loved the time that they spent together.

This book kept me turning the pages with the romance of Harry and Martha. A little mystery thrown in makes for the perfect read.

[Barbara Tobey · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book got off to a slow start for me but then was over before I wanted it to be. A delightful romance story. An adorable child adds to the tale. Take a trip to a Greek island. Very enjoyable place to be. Many wonderful characters and a couple of ones that it is fun to dislike. Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.

[Annette Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Perfect

Absolutely lovely, perfect for those of us who love a happy ever after and more so if you are a lover, as I am, of the Greek Islands. Set on the beautiful island of Paxos, Helen describes the island so well you can easily picture yourself sat in the sunshine eating olives and drinking wine.

[Elva Cartwright · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Island of Dreams: The Brand New uplifting, heartwarming escapist read from Saturday Kitchen’s Helen McGinnis for 2024.

What a beautiful, heartfelt story to read on a summer evening. I loved all the characters the storyline and especially Milo. Finding his Dad’s letter working out the address of Martha’s School then what happens next is just perfect. 💕

[Gayle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Martha is scared to love after braking up with her fiancee when she realized she was doing what was expected rather than what she really wanted. When her sister offers her a holiday in the condition she goes alone and learns to be on her own. But fate has a way of intervening!

A lovely gentle chick lit book

[Kelly · Rating 2 out of 5]

Lacked character development or any depth, took about 40% of the book to get to the main story (on the island) and wrapped up the end extremely quickly.

Not a well written book but it was supposed to be a simple beach read I’m giving 2 rather than 1 star because it was exactly that - simple…and I did read it! 😂

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book!

This was an unexpected pleasure to read! Such a sweet love story with some mystery lurking in the background...I liked all the characters, they were what made this book so good! Anyone who loves to travel while reading, must read this story set mainly in Greece!....really a good read!

[Lucy Harrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

A lovely uplifting novel to elevate your mood and while immersing in the story gives you a beautifully described vision of a Greek island - it’s good and wines too!! Well done on another wonderful story plus mini escape holiday Helen!

[Miss NA · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another feel good

Another feel good novel from the wonderful Helen. A real easy read, in a great setting. I always love the food and wine descriptions and being a huge Saturday kitchen fan, wouldn’t expect anything less.