What do you think?
Rate this book
Sunshine Island #2
A Secret Escape to Sunshine Island
Perfect for fans of Jessica Redland and Helen Rolfe. Welcome to the sunshine island - where the beaches are golden, the lifestyle is perfect and anything is possible. Popstar Matteo Stanford is eager to escape to the sunshine island to catch up with his old friend Alex and secretly film his latest music video. But within moments of landing, the location for the shoot is leaked to the press, and his island escape and video might be over before they start. Not to be defeated, Alex's girlfriend Piper recruits her two best friends Casey and Tara, who run the Smoke and Mirrors stall at the The Cabbage Patch market. It doesn't take Casey more than a moment to realise the perfect setting for Matteo's video is Gorey castle, but securing the venue means Casey is soon planning a secret wedding, finding an actress and becoming a set designer! It's chaos and crazed fans, peppered with the sweetest moments she's ever experienced. But could a popstar really fall for island girl Casey Norman?
- GenresRomance
310 pages, Paperback
Published November 17, 2022
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
July 29, 2026
3.5⭐
Genre ~ fiction
Series ~ Sunshine Island
Others in the series ~ Finding Love on Sunshine Island #1
Publication date ~ November 17, 2022
Page Count ~ 315
Audio length ~ 7 hours 50 minutes
Narrator ~ Emma Powell
POV ~ multiple 3rd
Featuring ~ celebrity, pop star, island life, clean romance, insta-love, small town
More enjoyable when read after Finding Love on Sunshine Island as Piper and Alex are heavily involved in this installment.
Casey & Matteo
Casey offers her assistance to Matteo when he needs a new place to shoot a music video. Matteo didn't feel like a typical celebrity and seemed really down to earth. Casey was super sweet and went above and beyond to help.
I was pooped just reading about all the work they all did in just 3 days time. I really liked that so many people came together to make the video and wedding happen. I wish I had pictures to see how it turned out because it sounded like it'd look cool.
Of course we have one hiccup along the way and I was mad right along with everyone else that it happened.
Overall, a quick and light read and I'd be happy to read another book that takes place on Sunshine Island since it's so delightfully described.
I had listened to the first book in the series and I almost wish I was able to do so with this one because I feel like I might have enjoyed it slightly more.
*Thanks to Georgina Troy, Rachel at Rachel's Random Resources, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Follow me here ➡ Blog ~ Facebook
Genre ~ fiction
Series ~ Sunshine Island
Others in the series ~ Finding Love on Sunshine Island #1
Publication date ~ November 17, 2022
Page Count ~ 315
Audio length ~ 7 hours 50 minutes
Narrator ~ Emma Powell
POV ~ multiple 3rd
Featuring ~ celebrity, pop star, island life, clean romance, insta-love, small town
More enjoyable when read after Finding Love on Sunshine Island as Piper and Alex are heavily involved in this installment.
Casey & Matteo
Casey offers her assistance to Matteo when he needs a new place to shoot a music video. Matteo didn't feel like a typical celebrity and seemed really down to earth. Casey was super sweet and went above and beyond to help.
I was pooped just reading about all the work they all did in just 3 days time. I really liked that so many people came together to make the video and wedding happen. I wish I had pictures to see how it turned out because it sounded like it'd look cool.
Of course we have one hiccup along the way and I was mad right along with everyone else that it happened.
Overall, a quick and light read and I'd be happy to read another book that takes place on Sunshine Island since it's so delightfully described.
I had listened to the first book in the series and I almost wish I was able to do so with this one because I feel like I might have enjoyed it slightly more.
*Thanks to Georgina Troy, Rachel at Rachel's Random Resources, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Follow me here ➡ Blog ~ Facebook
October 11, 2024
*Love & Sunshine*
This was a lovely read, this is book 2 of 3 and the series is based in Jersey in The Channel Islands in between France and England. The descriptions of some of the landmarks sounded idyllic.
This instalment focuses on Matteo Stanford who is a pop star and best friend of Alex who was featured in book one. Matteo needs to film a video and thinks there is no better place than this wonderful sunshine island.
Everything is set in place until his location is rumbled. He now needs to find another venue and it is time sensitive. So Piper the main character from book one gets Casey and Tara her best friends on the case.
Well, there is drama, a secret wedding and lots to sort out. Casey seems to take the main role sorting things out but she is growing ever more attracted to Matteo.
Casey is the type to stay in the background but, while Matteo is a pop star. Wires get crossed and there are misunderstandings. Will there ever be a possibility for romance? Trouble is never far away and with the possibility that plans may all come crashing down, they all have their work cut out. I love how the community are on hand if needed, especially as it all has to be kept secret.
A gentle easy read that I really enjoyed and escaped into their world.
This was a lovely read, this is book 2 of 3 and the series is based in Jersey in The Channel Islands in between France and England. The descriptions of some of the landmarks sounded idyllic.
This instalment focuses on Matteo Stanford who is a pop star and best friend of Alex who was featured in book one. Matteo needs to film a video and thinks there is no better place than this wonderful sunshine island.
Everything is set in place until his location is rumbled. He now needs to find another venue and it is time sensitive. So Piper the main character from book one gets Casey and Tara her best friends on the case.
Well, there is drama, a secret wedding and lots to sort out. Casey seems to take the main role sorting things out but she is growing ever more attracted to Matteo.
Casey is the type to stay in the background but, while Matteo is a pop star. Wires get crossed and there are misunderstandings. Will there ever be a possibility for romance? Trouble is never far away and with the possibility that plans may all come crashing down, they all have their work cut out. I love how the community are on hand if needed, especially as it all has to be kept secret.
A gentle easy read that I really enjoyed and escaped into their world.
November 17, 2022
It’s never ideal to start with the second book in a series – had I read the first, I might have been a touch more comfortable knowing more about the relationships between the characters and what’s been happening in their lives. But I soon caught up – and the focus of this book isn’t Piper and Alex of the first book but their friend Casey, and the gargantuan task she takes on of organising a surprise wedding and a video shoot for Matteo, a visiting high profile pop star. The developing relationship between Casey and Matteo is also central to the story – a really convincing one with plenty of chemistry between them. He’s such a genuinely lovely guy, but with such an alien lifestyle – Casey runs a stall at The Cabbage Patch market selling candles and mirrors, and she’s convinced that a real relationship between them would never work out.
There was a lot about this book that I really enjoyed, not least its wonderful sense of place – I’ve never visited Jersey, the sunshine island, but I was so impressed by the settings the author visited in this book that I’m almost ready to book my own flight (with the Grantez headland overlooking St Ouen’s Bay and Mont Orgueil castle with its view of Gorey harbour top of my “must visit” list). And as well as the vistas, I really enjoyed the interior scenes too, all the gothic detail Casey organised as a backdrop to both the wedding and video shoot, and the ingenious conversion of the barn into a reception venue.
The story moves at excellent pace, with a nice focus on the friendships and families, and some beautifully drawn multi-generational characters – and some of the individuals behave badly which adds some moments of real drama. Carey’s workload is particularly testing, and it’s not surprising that she drops the ball occasionally – giving rise to a few more heart-stopping moments. And through it all, she’s also wrestling with the growing attraction between herself and Matteo, the obstacles to their relationship looking quite insurmountable.
It’s a lovely light read, although I will admit that I didn’t find its young characters easy to identify with – but I’m not really the book’s target audience, and someone a little closer to the possibility of young love would, I’m sure, find them particularly engaging. But the dynamics of the relationships are really well handled, there’s a lovely sense of community (all pulling together…), the twists and turns of the story are nicely unpredictable, and the emotional content absolutely spot-on – and I certainly had a little tear in my eye at its perfect ending. If you’d appreciate a little sunshine and a romantic escape at this gloomy stage of the year, I’d certainly recommend this one – a series so many romance readers would thoroughly enjoy.
There was a lot about this book that I really enjoyed, not least its wonderful sense of place – I’ve never visited Jersey, the sunshine island, but I was so impressed by the settings the author visited in this book that I’m almost ready to book my own flight (with the Grantez headland overlooking St Ouen’s Bay and Mont Orgueil castle with its view of Gorey harbour top of my “must visit” list). And as well as the vistas, I really enjoyed the interior scenes too, all the gothic detail Casey organised as a backdrop to both the wedding and video shoot, and the ingenious conversion of the barn into a reception venue.
The story moves at excellent pace, with a nice focus on the friendships and families, and some beautifully drawn multi-generational characters – and some of the individuals behave badly which adds some moments of real drama. Carey’s workload is particularly testing, and it’s not surprising that she drops the ball occasionally – giving rise to a few more heart-stopping moments. And through it all, she’s also wrestling with the growing attraction between herself and Matteo, the obstacles to their relationship looking quite insurmountable.
It’s a lovely light read, although I will admit that I didn’t find its young characters easy to identify with – but I’m not really the book’s target audience, and someone a little closer to the possibility of young love would, I’m sure, find them particularly engaging. But the dynamics of the relationships are really well handled, there’s a lovely sense of community (all pulling together…), the twists and turns of the story are nicely unpredictable, and the emotional content absolutely spot-on – and I certainly had a little tear in my eye at its perfect ending. If you’d appreciate a little sunshine and a romantic escape at this gloomy stage of the year, I’d certainly recommend this one – a series so many romance readers would thoroughly enjoy.
November 19, 2022
This is the second book in the series which could be read on its own, however, some of the character’s are the central ones from the first book.
Matteo is a pop star and friend of Alex and is in need of a location to shoot his latest video. Casey offers her help but when their location is rumbled she needs to find plan B. This she manages but finds herself being set designer for the shoot as well as wedding planner for her friend Vicky's secret wedding.
Casey and Matteo have wonderful chemistry but their lives are worlds apart which makes any relationship difficult.
A lot of the characters in this book featured in the first book so it was lovely to find out a bit more of them and see how they interlink.
This is a lovely easy read, set in a wonderful location and has plenty romance, drama and a fantastic sense of community spirit. I actually enjoyed this book more than the first one.
Matteo is a pop star and friend of Alex and is in need of a location to shoot his latest video. Casey offers her help but when their location is rumbled she needs to find plan B. This she manages but finds herself being set designer for the shoot as well as wedding planner for her friend Vicky's secret wedding.
Casey and Matteo have wonderful chemistry but their lives are worlds apart which makes any relationship difficult.
A lot of the characters in this book featured in the first book so it was lovely to find out a bit more of them and see how they interlink.
This is a lovely easy read, set in a wonderful location and has plenty romance, drama and a fantastic sense of community spirit. I actually enjoyed this book more than the first one.
November 20, 2022
I have been a fan of Georgina’s work for a little while now. I haven’t read everything that she has written but that is something that I hope to rectify in the not too distant future. Earlier this year I had the distinct pleasure of reading and reviewing the first book in the Sunshine Island series, which is called ‘Finding Love On Sunshine Island’. When I heard that Georgina was due to release the second book in the series, I knew that I had to get a copy at the earliest opportunity and hibernate until I had read the last word on the last page.n Well ladies and gents the wait is over because the second book in the series is called ‘A Secret Escape To Sunshine Island’ and it was released on 17th November 2022. It’s a superb addition to the ‘Sunshine Island’ series , which I thoroughly enjoyed reading but more about that in a bit.
As soon as I started reading, I knew that I was reading something special and that I would find it rather difficult to put the book to one side for any length of time. I was spot on in both cases. To say that reading ‘A Secret Escape To Sunshine Island’ became addictive is a wee bit of an understatement. I started reading this book and I found that I just couldn’t stop. My Kindle wasn’t exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I couldn’t bear to miss a single second of this delightful story. I loved the characters and I loved the sound of ‘Sunshine Island’. I developed my own theory as to how the story was going to pan out and I had to keep reading to see if my own theory was anywhere near the truth or if I had gone off in the other direction. I became so wrapped up in the story that I lost all track of time and just how quickly I was getting through the story. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘A Secret Escape To Sunshine Island’ and I had to say goodbye to Casey, Piper, Alex and the rest of the characters as well as say goodbye to ‘Sunshine Island’. I found ‘A Secret Escape To Sunshine Island’ to be a delight to read from start to finish. It’s pure escapist reading and it left me feeling as though I had had a hug from a mug of hot chocolate in that I was left feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
‘A Secret Escape To Sunshine Island’ is superbly written but then I have come to expect nothing less from Georgina Troy. Georgina has one of those easy going writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading one of Georgina’s books feels more like a chat between friends rather than reading an actual book. I hope that makes sense. Georgina clearly cares about her characters and this shines through in the very vivid and realistic way in which she describes them. She makes her characters seem just as real as you and I. I love the way in which Georgina describes ‘Sunshine Island’. I was reading the book on a cold and rainy day in North East England and the story instantly transported me away to sunnier climes. Georgina describes ‘Sunshine Island’ so vividly that I was all set to pack a suitcase and go for a holiday! This story had a bit of everything- drama, a lot of romance and a fair bit of laughter along the way.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘A Secret Escape To Sunshine Island’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Georgina’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
As soon as I started reading, I knew that I was reading something special and that I would find it rather difficult to put the book to one side for any length of time. I was spot on in both cases. To say that reading ‘A Secret Escape To Sunshine Island’ became addictive is a wee bit of an understatement. I started reading this book and I found that I just couldn’t stop. My Kindle wasn’t exactly glued to my hand but it might as well have been because it travelled everywhere with me. I couldn’t bear to miss a single second of this delightful story. I loved the characters and I loved the sound of ‘Sunshine Island’. I developed my own theory as to how the story was going to pan out and I had to keep reading to see if my own theory was anywhere near the truth or if I had gone off in the other direction. I became so wrapped up in the story that I lost all track of time and just how quickly I was getting through the story. All too quickly I reached the end of ‘A Secret Escape To Sunshine Island’ and I had to say goodbye to Casey, Piper, Alex and the rest of the characters as well as say goodbye to ‘Sunshine Island’. I found ‘A Secret Escape To Sunshine Island’ to be a delight to read from start to finish. It’s pure escapist reading and it left me feeling as though I had had a hug from a mug of hot chocolate in that I was left feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
‘A Secret Escape To Sunshine Island’ is superbly written but then I have come to expect nothing less from Georgina Troy. Georgina has one of those easy going writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact reading one of Georgina’s books feels more like a chat between friends rather than reading an actual book. I hope that makes sense. Georgina clearly cares about her characters and this shines through in the very vivid and realistic way in which she describes them. She makes her characters seem just as real as you and I. I love the way in which Georgina describes ‘Sunshine Island’. I was reading the book on a cold and rainy day in North East England and the story instantly transported me away to sunnier climes. Georgina describes ‘Sunshine Island’ so vividly that I was all set to pack a suitcase and go for a holiday! This story had a bit of everything- drama, a lot of romance and a fair bit of laughter along the way.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘A Secret Escape To Sunshine Island’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Georgina’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
December 5, 2022
A Secret Escape to Sunshine Island is a charming romance book and a great book to read on a Sunday afternoon.
A Secret Escape to Sunshine Island takes place after Finding Love on Sunshine Island. So, before diving into this book, you should read Finding Love on Sunshine Island. I was super excited to read this book, I adored Georgina’s previous one, and I couldn’t wait to return to Jersey Island. It was great to see Piper and Alex again. Even though they aren’t the story’s main focus, they still play an important role in it. The scenes that they were in had my heart pitter-pattering with happiness. I really do adore them.
In this book, we get to know Casey and Matteo (Piper and Alex’s best friends). Things are happening on Jersey Island; Matteo has come to the island hoping to film one of his music videos. Problems arise when someone leaks the filming location for the video to the media. That is where Casey comes in. She has the perfect location for Matteo; the only problem is Casey’s friend Vicki has a wedding taking place there at the same time. With some fast talking and the promise to help plan the wedding, Casey manages to secure the venue for Matteo. With only a few days to get things ready for Matteo’s video and Vicki’s wedding, Casey is wondering if she has bitten off more than she can chew. This book is a lovely, light, fluffy romance read. I flew through this book. As you can imagine, a lot is going on in this book; planning both a wedding and staging the venue for a music video requires a lot of different moving parts. Sometimes things got a little too chaotic and hard to follow, but all the hustle and bustle makes for an entertaining story. I also enjoyed spending time with all the residents on the island; it felt like catching up with old friends.
Casey is a great main character for a romance. She has this wonderful girl next door vibe to her, and her heart is so big. Watching her try her best to ensure the music video goes off without a hitch and that Vicki has the wedding she has always dreamed of was heart-warming. Matteo is a sweetheart and oh-so-charming. He was the perfect main romantic hero for this book. The attraction between Casey and Matteo was evident right from their first meeting. I was interested in seeing how Georgina would make their relationship work. Casey and Matteo live very different lifestyles, which creates many hurdles for these two to jump over. I had a slight problem with the romance between Casey and Matteo. I adored these two as characters, and they will make a fabulous couple. I just wished there was more dialogue and alone moments between them. They didn’t really get a chance to get to know one another. And because of that lack of dialogue, their romance didn’t feel believable to me. The moments when these two are together are sweet and swoony and will definitely get your heart racing faster.
I really hope that Georgina writes about Jax’s story next! I do love that man.
A Secret Escape to Sunshine Island is a wonderful, charming love story.
Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/book-rev...
A Secret Escape to Sunshine Island takes place after Finding Love on Sunshine Island. So, before diving into this book, you should read Finding Love on Sunshine Island. I was super excited to read this book, I adored Georgina’s previous one, and I couldn’t wait to return to Jersey Island. It was great to see Piper and Alex again. Even though they aren’t the story’s main focus, they still play an important role in it. The scenes that they were in had my heart pitter-pattering with happiness. I really do adore them.
In this book, we get to know Casey and Matteo (Piper and Alex’s best friends). Things are happening on Jersey Island; Matteo has come to the island hoping to film one of his music videos. Problems arise when someone leaks the filming location for the video to the media. That is where Casey comes in. She has the perfect location for Matteo; the only problem is Casey’s friend Vicki has a wedding taking place there at the same time. With some fast talking and the promise to help plan the wedding, Casey manages to secure the venue for Matteo. With only a few days to get things ready for Matteo’s video and Vicki’s wedding, Casey is wondering if she has bitten off more than she can chew. This book is a lovely, light, fluffy romance read. I flew through this book. As you can imagine, a lot is going on in this book; planning both a wedding and staging the venue for a music video requires a lot of different moving parts. Sometimes things got a little too chaotic and hard to follow, but all the hustle and bustle makes for an entertaining story. I also enjoyed spending time with all the residents on the island; it felt like catching up with old friends.
Casey is a great main character for a romance. She has this wonderful girl next door vibe to her, and her heart is so big. Watching her try her best to ensure the music video goes off without a hitch and that Vicki has the wedding she has always dreamed of was heart-warming. Matteo is a sweetheart and oh-so-charming. He was the perfect main romantic hero for this book. The attraction between Casey and Matteo was evident right from their first meeting. I was interested in seeing how Georgina would make their relationship work. Casey and Matteo live very different lifestyles, which creates many hurdles for these two to jump over. I had a slight problem with the romance between Casey and Matteo. I adored these two as characters, and they will make a fabulous couple. I just wished there was more dialogue and alone moments between them. They didn’t really get a chance to get to know one another. And because of that lack of dialogue, their romance didn’t feel believable to me. The moments when these two are together are sweet and swoony and will definitely get your heart racing faster.
I really hope that Georgina writes about Jax’s story next! I do love that man.
A Secret Escape to Sunshine Island is a wonderful, charming love story.
Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/book-rev...
November 13, 2022
Firstly, in case you are wondering, this book can be read as a standalone story. There’s enough information to help you understand all of the characters to fully enjoy it. This book picks up not long after the previous one ended. As the synopsis explains, Matteo Stanford is a successful pop star with a legion of fans who are all desperate to catch even a glimpse of him. So, when the proposed site for his next music video is leaked to the press, it falls on Piper and her friends to help save the day.
We met Casey and Tara in the first book, and I loved the idea of their Smoke and Mirrors craft stall. They sell handmade candles and upcycled mirrors. Tara has a crush on a fellow artisan from the Cabbage Patch, but Casey is single. Of course, sparks fly when Casey meets Matteo, but she’s not interested in being a fling.
I really enjoyed the various elements of this story. The setting of Jersey was beautifully described, and I could imagine sitting outside a beach hut, staring out to sea. It was lovely to welcome some sunshine as the nights here start to draw in. Piper’s friends, family, and extended family play a pivotal support role in ensuring that all the elements work.
I absolutely adored Casey and could understand how she felt conflicted by her growing attraction to Matteo, her determination not to get involved with a musician who is constantly on tour, and the focus for adoring fans. Of course, romance is rarely easily won, so it’s no surprise that there are a lot of will they or won’t they moments.
I can happily recommend this book to you and I’m already looking forward to my next escape to Sunshine Island.
We met Casey and Tara in the first book, and I loved the idea of their Smoke and Mirrors craft stall. They sell handmade candles and upcycled mirrors. Tara has a crush on a fellow artisan from the Cabbage Patch, but Casey is single. Of course, sparks fly when Casey meets Matteo, but she’s not interested in being a fling.
I really enjoyed the various elements of this story. The setting of Jersey was beautifully described, and I could imagine sitting outside a beach hut, staring out to sea. It was lovely to welcome some sunshine as the nights here start to draw in. Piper’s friends, family, and extended family play a pivotal support role in ensuring that all the elements work.
I absolutely adored Casey and could understand how she felt conflicted by her growing attraction to Matteo, her determination not to get involved with a musician who is constantly on tour, and the focus for adoring fans. Of course, romance is rarely easily won, so it’s no surprise that there are a lot of will they or won’t they moments.
I can happily recommend this book to you and I’m already looking forward to my next escape to Sunshine Island.
December 4, 2022
Sunshine Island, where just anything is possible…
Popstar Matteo Stanford has found the perfect place to film his latest music video. Because is there a better place than Sunshine Island? Especially as it’s the perfect opportunity for Matteo to catch up with his friend Alex Cooper. But no matter how much Matteo wishes for things to remain secret, not only his but also the filming location is leaked. And his plans seem to fall apart. That is, until Alex’ girlfriend Piper recruits her two best friends Casey and Tara to help out. And Casey appears to be invaluable… Because not only does she find the perfect new location, she also finds the perfect actress for Matteo’s music video and she can plan a secret wedding. Between all the chaos, Casey and Matteo feel an attraction too hard to ignore. But do a popstar and an island girl have a chance at love?
This is the second book of the series, but it can be perfectly read as a standalone. Yet I can for suer recommend it, not only because you already know the side characters, but just because it’s a lovely story too! So the author had the task to fulfil my high expectations. And how did she fulfil them!
I immediately liked Casey as she is quickly showing her great and kind heart. She doesn’t hesitate after contacted by Piper to help out Matteo. But not only is she wonderful in helping, she just also has the perfect solution for every new issue that arises.
Together with her cousin Tara, Casey manages to do the impossible, even if it stresses her out. But her not wanting to disappoint anyone, and her wish to give her friends what they deserve, truly graces her. And her not being starstruck by Matteo, only makes her more likeable than she already was!
Matteo.. he may be a star, yet I liked him for being Matteo the person, not Matteo the popstar. Yes, being famous opens door that would remain closed for others, but he also uses this ‘power’ to help out. Just how readily he is to step in with the wedding, which he has no business with, so to speak, shows his real character.
Matteo needs Casey in so many different situations, and I could perfectly understand why he is in awe of her. And the attraction is so palpable from the pages, it nearly made me envious! Of course, the life of a popstar isn’t an easy one, and I could comprehend the doubts Casey had, but I could also see how perfect these wonderful characters would be for each other.
Returning to Sunshine Island was a wonderful return, I could feel the warmth from each character (except one, but that was no big surprise as I knew from book one to be aware of that return on the scene…) . This place shows that when you are part of a close community, anything is possible, even organising a secret wedding in just three days. But also that in a wonderful place like this one, it’s the perfect setting for falling in love and dare to take a chance on love. I loved reading this next storyline, and I hope this author will amaze us further with other wonderful love stories in this marvellous place that stole a piece of my heart!
Popstar Matteo Stanford has found the perfect place to film his latest music video. Because is there a better place than Sunshine Island? Especially as it’s the perfect opportunity for Matteo to catch up with his friend Alex Cooper. But no matter how much Matteo wishes for things to remain secret, not only his but also the filming location is leaked. And his plans seem to fall apart. That is, until Alex’ girlfriend Piper recruits her two best friends Casey and Tara to help out. And Casey appears to be invaluable… Because not only does she find the perfect new location, she also finds the perfect actress for Matteo’s music video and she can plan a secret wedding. Between all the chaos, Casey and Matteo feel an attraction too hard to ignore. But do a popstar and an island girl have a chance at love?
This is the second book of the series, but it can be perfectly read as a standalone. Yet I can for suer recommend it, not only because you already know the side characters, but just because it’s a lovely story too! So the author had the task to fulfil my high expectations. And how did she fulfil them!
I immediately liked Casey as she is quickly showing her great and kind heart. She doesn’t hesitate after contacted by Piper to help out Matteo. But not only is she wonderful in helping, she just also has the perfect solution for every new issue that arises.
Together with her cousin Tara, Casey manages to do the impossible, even if it stresses her out. But her not wanting to disappoint anyone, and her wish to give her friends what they deserve, truly graces her. And her not being starstruck by Matteo, only makes her more likeable than she already was!
Matteo.. he may be a star, yet I liked him for being Matteo the person, not Matteo the popstar. Yes, being famous opens door that would remain closed for others, but he also uses this ‘power’ to help out. Just how readily he is to step in with the wedding, which he has no business with, so to speak, shows his real character.
Matteo needs Casey in so many different situations, and I could perfectly understand why he is in awe of her. And the attraction is so palpable from the pages, it nearly made me envious! Of course, the life of a popstar isn’t an easy one, and I could comprehend the doubts Casey had, but I could also see how perfect these wonderful characters would be for each other.
Returning to Sunshine Island was a wonderful return, I could feel the warmth from each character (except one, but that was no big surprise as I knew from book one to be aware of that return on the scene…) . This place shows that when you are part of a close community, anything is possible, even organising a secret wedding in just three days. But also that in a wonderful place like this one, it’s the perfect setting for falling in love and dare to take a chance on love. I loved reading this next storyline, and I hope this author will amaze us further with other wonderful love stories in this marvellous place that stole a piece of my heart!
November 17, 2022
Absolutely gorgeous story of a brilliant community
Working together despite the mystery.
A heartwarming story involving several romances
And people who are daring to take some chances!
Popstar Matteo Stanford is visiting the isle
Making a video and staying for a while.
Catching up with his best friend, Alex, too
Whilst escaping the limelight he hopes to do.
However, the location is quickly revealed
So now he needs another, more concealed.
Alex calls in help from his girlfriend and her friends
Not sure this trip will have a happy end.
Casey and Tara come to the rescue double quick
Suggesting a location that seems to click
However there's a mystery wedding on that date
But it isn't planned till quite late.
Can Casey help bring everything together?
Helping the bride-to-be, stressing never?
And what about the attraction between her and the star -
Will it be short lived or go far?
I really enjoyed this story as it unfolds
With drama and secrets as yet untold
The way the community work to help out
Is something definitely worth shouting about.
A tale with great characters throughout
Including some I want to learn more about
I really enjoyed this gentle but well paced read and so
Have absolutely no hesitation in highly recommending you give it a go!
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
It's a heartwarming read and this is my honest review.
Working together despite the mystery.
A heartwarming story involving several romances
And people who are daring to take some chances!
Popstar Matteo Stanford is visiting the isle
Making a video and staying for a while.
Catching up with his best friend, Alex, too
Whilst escaping the limelight he hopes to do.
However, the location is quickly revealed
So now he needs another, more concealed.
Alex calls in help from his girlfriend and her friends
Not sure this trip will have a happy end.
Casey and Tara come to the rescue double quick
Suggesting a location that seems to click
However there's a mystery wedding on that date
But it isn't planned till quite late.
Can Casey help bring everything together?
Helping the bride-to-be, stressing never?
And what about the attraction between her and the star -
Will it be short lived or go far?
I really enjoyed this story as it unfolds
With drama and secrets as yet untold
The way the community work to help out
Is something definitely worth shouting about.
A tale with great characters throughout
Including some I want to learn more about
I really enjoyed this gentle but well paced read and so
Have absolutely no hesitation in highly recommending you give it a go!
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
It's a heartwarming read and this is my honest review.
December 5, 2022
A Secret Escape to Sunshine Island by Georgina Troy
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Popstar Matteo Stanford is eager to escape to the sunshine island to catch up with his old friend Alex and secretly film his latest music video. But within moments of landing, the location for the shoot is leaked to the press, and his island escape and video might be over before they start.
Not to be defeated, Alex’s girlfriend Piper recruits her two best friends Casey and Tara, who run the Smoke and Mirrors stall at the The Cabbage Patch market. It doesn’t take Casey more than a moment to realise the perfect setting for Matteo’s video is Gorey castle, but securing the venue means Casey is soon planning a secret wedding, finding an actress and becoming a set designer!
My Opinion
This is the second book in the series but I feel that it would work well as a standalone. A lovely, easy book to read with some great characters that it was nice to get to know. A delightful read and a welcome escape somewhere warm whilst the weather outside is cold.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Popstar Matteo Stanford is eager to escape to the sunshine island to catch up with his old friend Alex and secretly film his latest music video. But within moments of landing, the location for the shoot is leaked to the press, and his island escape and video might be over before they start.
Not to be defeated, Alex’s girlfriend Piper recruits her two best friends Casey and Tara, who run the Smoke and Mirrors stall at the The Cabbage Patch market. It doesn’t take Casey more than a moment to realise the perfect setting for Matteo’s video is Gorey castle, but securing the venue means Casey is soon planning a secret wedding, finding an actress and becoming a set designer!
My Opinion
This is the second book in the series but I feel that it would work well as a standalone. A lovely, easy book to read with some great characters that it was nice to get to know. A delightful read and a welcome escape somewhere warm whilst the weather outside is cold.
Rating 4/5
November 22, 2022
This is a charming story about the power of community. There's something wholesome about watching a group of people come together to make dreams come true! Its positivity is what we need these days and there were so many wonderful characters from around the island, it was hard to keep track. (I hope we see more of Dilys!)
The romance here is a little more understated, but it's not hard to see why Matteo would fall for Casey, because she's pretty awesome. As for Casey, she's living the dream of a rockstar romance - if the dream also involves a very stressful weekend of last-minute event management. I can't help but wonder how their fledgling relationship will survive outside the sunny bubble of Jersey and would love a follow-up short story (or even an epilogue!)
Need a break? Don't think too hard about the logistics, just sit back and enjoy this light and uplifting romance.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own. For more reviews, check out !
The romance here is a little more understated, but it's not hard to see why Matteo would fall for Casey, because she's pretty awesome. As for Casey, she's living the dream of a rockstar romance - if the dream also involves a very stressful weekend of last-minute event management. I can't help but wonder how their fledgling relationship will survive outside the sunny bubble of Jersey and would love a follow-up short story (or even an epilogue!)
Need a break? Don't think too hard about the logistics, just sit back and enjoy this light and uplifting romance.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book via Rachel's Random Resources; all opinions are my own. For more reviews, check out !
March 4, 2023
It was great to be back on the Sunshine island amongst old friends and new.
I felt right at home with this book, and loved getting to know Matteo, and his initial reaction to Casey is great.
They are worlds apart so Casey is rather cautious in her rather obvious feelings towards Matteo but is willing to go to a huge effort to make sure his music video is able to be shot, and even ends up planning a surprise wedding for a friend to as a result.
It's a manic few days for everyone on the island while all you can do is sit back as a reader and really hope they manage to pull everything off in time. Add in a couple of people who don't seem to have the same goodwill and feeling of community and you get some drama too.
It's a really gentle story that is a relaxing book to ease into and read, and one that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I felt right at home with this book, and loved getting to know Matteo, and his initial reaction to Casey is great.
They are worlds apart so Casey is rather cautious in her rather obvious feelings towards Matteo but is willing to go to a huge effort to make sure his music video is able to be shot, and even ends up planning a surprise wedding for a friend to as a result.
It's a manic few days for everyone on the island while all you can do is sit back as a reader and really hope they manage to pull everything off in time. Add in a couple of people who don't seem to have the same goodwill and feeling of community and you get some drama too.
It's a really gentle story that is a relaxing book to ease into and read, and one that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
November 8, 2022
I adored reading this and have read the previous books.
I would say I can be read as a standalone but you would enjoy more as part of a series.
This time we meet matteo who is a friend of Alex who arrived in the previous book. Matteo is a pop star looking for somewhere to film his next music video.
Alex has found him the perfect spot I jersey but once the press find out he is there this plan is then no good. So he enlists the help of his girlfriend pipers friends to come up with a new venue only problem is I will be being used for a wedding that the groom knows nothing about.
Lots of laughs are to be had as they try to sort the castle venue for not only a pop video but a wedding too.
I loved casey and matteo and were rooting for them from when they first meet.
I would say I can be read as a standalone but you would enjoy more as part of a series.
This time we meet matteo who is a friend of Alex who arrived in the previous book. Matteo is a pop star looking for somewhere to film his next music video.
Alex has found him the perfect spot I jersey but once the press find out he is there this plan is then no good. So he enlists the help of his girlfriend pipers friends to come up with a new venue only problem is I will be being used for a wedding that the groom knows nothing about.
Lots of laughs are to be had as they try to sort the castle venue for not only a pop video but a wedding too.
I loved casey and matteo and were rooting for them from when they first meet.
November 15, 2022
Casey meets pop star Matteo when he comes to her community to shoot a music video, and there are instant sparks between them. Arriving on Sunshine Island after being overrun by fans, Matteo is introduced to the group of friends by his friend, Alex. Immediately Matteo and Alex volunteer to help the friends put on a wedding and they find Matteo the perfect place for his show.
This book is entertaining and it's great to read about a community pulling together to help out a friend who need a push in the right direction. The descriptions of the island and the surroundings is great to read about. This would be a perfect place for a vacation. It sounds perfect.
#ASecretEscapeToSunshineIsland #NetGalley #Fiction #Romance #GeorginaTroy #BoldwoodBooks
This book is entertaining and it's great to read about a community pulling together to help out a friend who need a push in the right direction. The descriptions of the island and the surroundings is great to read about. This would be a perfect place for a vacation. It sounds perfect.
#ASecretEscapeToSunshineIsland #NetGalley #Fiction #Romance #GeorginaTroy #BoldwoodBooks
November 16, 2022
Another wonderful read from Georgina Troy.
I fell in love with Jersey the last time around and this has just made me want to visit even more. The community spirit shared by the characters in this story was beautiful and I loved how Matteo got involved with everything too.
I love Georgina’s characters- so well developed and real - I felt every emotion and loved spending time with Casey and Tara this time whilst renewing friendships with Piper and Alex. I can’t wait to come back to Jersey and see what happens in the next instalment with Jax.
I fell in love with Jersey the last time around and this has just made me want to visit even more. The community spirit shared by the characters in this story was beautiful and I loved how Matteo got involved with everything too.
I love Georgina’s characters- so well developed and real - I felt every emotion and loved spending time with Casey and Tara this time whilst renewing friendships with Piper and Alex. I can’t wait to come back to Jersey and see what happens in the next instalment with Jax.
November 23, 2022
I really enjoyed being back on the island of Jersey. This book starts shortly after book 1 ended. We meet Piper and Alex again, but the main focus of this story is popstar Matteo (Alex's best friend) and Casey. Casey is so easy to love and the way she treats others is heartwarming, like spontaneously buying flowers for her mother. I loved her and want a friend like her! There is some drama in this story, but above all there is romance and a community coming together to help each other out. I felt really caught up in the rush to finish it all for the big day.
November 23, 2022
Matteo is a pop star, trying to film at a secret location, but when the location is revealed he must call in the help of Alex and his girlfriend Piper; and her friends to help him out.
It isn’t long before Casey and Matteo are soon showing chemistry but can Casey really find love with a pop star?
This is the second novel in a series but can be read as a standalone, but will probably have you wanting to go back and read the first novel.
This is a great narrative with heartwarming romance and true friendship which will make you feel a little emotion in all the right places.
It isn’t long before Casey and Matteo are soon showing chemistry but can Casey really find love with a pop star?
This is the second novel in a series but can be read as a standalone, but will probably have you wanting to go back and read the first novel.
This is a great narrative with heartwarming romance and true friendship which will make you feel a little emotion in all the right places.
January 3, 2023
Lovely book. Lots of sunshine and beautiful beaches. It was lovely reading a sunshine book whilst snuggled under the blanket with the Christmas tree lights on. I liked Casey and her friends and family a lot. They were warm, friendly and part of a great community. Matteo was a gorgeous hunk of a man who was friendly and fun. This was a charming book and well worth a read. Thank you netgalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
September 1, 2023
An enjoyable enough story but the dialogue between characters feels a bit stiff and unnatural and the development of Casey and Matteo’s relationship with the constant back and forth and distinct lack of communication almost mirrors the first book with Alex and Piper.
The descriptions of Jersey make me want to visit.
The descriptions of Jersey make me want to visit.
June 8, 2023
A Secret Escape to Sunshine Island
What an absolute delight it was to read this book, it was so well written with so many twists and turns, I can’t wait to read the next book thank you, bring it on 😍👏👏🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
What an absolute delight it was to read this book, it was so well written with so many twists and turns, I can’t wait to read the next book thank you, bring it on 😍👏👏🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
July 3, 2023
Loving Romance
The second book in this series is just as good as the first. It is Casey’s story with lots of characters from the first book intertwined in her life. Great setting and wonderful characters. Off to buy book 3 now. Highly recommended
The second book in this series is just as good as the first. It is Casey’s story with lots of characters from the first book intertwined in her life. Great setting and wonderful characters. Off to buy book 3 now. Highly recommended
January 19, 2024
great read
Loved the book and the storyline .
Casey helping matteo find a venue for his video and the whole community pulling together to make things happen. And of course love happening.
Loved the book and the storyline .
Casey helping matteo find a venue for his video and the whole community pulling together to make things happen. And of course love happening.
September 5, 2023
Wooden
Persevered to the end but couldn't find a rhythm . Characters had no backbone and the storyline was disjointed, not very good at all.
Persevered to the end but couldn't find a rhythm . Characters had no backbone and the storyline was disjointed, not very good at all.
March 17, 2024
Loved it, like the craft barn, the locations, the secret wedding, the secret filming, the relationships and the characters, apart from Fliss. Can't wait for the next
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 7, 2023
Matteo is in Sunshine Island scouting for place to shoot his music video and visit his best friend, Alex. Unlike other famous celebrity, he seem to really down to earth. Casey is a sweet lady who are willing to find a new location for the shoot and organise it for Matteo. Both Casey and Matteo attracted to each other but their relationship have its complication: Matteo is a celebrity and Casey, just a normal girl from a small town.
The story focus on Casey and Matteo and how their story developed. It is a really good chemistry depicted between them in the story despite their different background. Storyline move on at an excellent pace with focus on family and friendship and lovely sense of community . Overall it is a delightful read to me.
The story focus on Casey and Matteo and how their story developed. It is a really good chemistry depicted between them in the story despite their different background. Storyline move on at an excellent pace with focus on family and friendship and lovely sense of community . Overall it is a delightful read to me.
Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews