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In the Greek Midwinter
It was supposed to be a holiday of a lifetime…
But when Jen’s boyfriend David suddenly cancels their romantic Paris trip, needing to urgently travel to Athens for work, it’s best friend Bonnie who suggests they surprise him.
Having already booked the time off from her events company – Christmas Every Day – Jen decides an impromptu and romantic gesture might be just what their relationship needs.
Arriving in Greece and finding David is not there, Jen has a lot of questions. And when she gets her answers she has a choice – should she go home or should she stay a while?
With the help of Astro, the handsome yet Christmas-hating waiter from the local bar, she sets about a little Greek Christmas research. But what starts as a ‘business trip’ soon turns into something more…
But when Jen’s boyfriend David suddenly cancels their romantic Paris trip, needing to urgently travel to Athens for work, it’s best friend Bonnie who suggests they surprise him.
Having already booked the time off from her events company – Christmas Every Day – Jen decides an impromptu and romantic gesture might be just what their relationship needs.
Arriving in Greece and finding David is not there, Jen has a lot of questions. And when she gets her answers she has a choice – should she go home or should she stay a while?
With the help of Astro, the handsome yet Christmas-hating waiter from the local bar, she sets about a little Greek Christmas research. But what starts as a ‘business trip’ soon turns into something more…
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 6, 2023
621 people are currently reading
375 people want to read
About the author
Mandy Baggot
61 books749 followersMandy Baggot is an international bestselling and award-winning romance writer represented by Tanera Simons of Greenstone Literary.
Mandy is best-known for her laugh-out-loud romantic comedies featuring strong heroines, gorgeous heroes and always that happy-ever-after!
The winner of the Innovation in Romantic Fiction award at the UK's Festival of Romance, her novel, One Wish in Manhattan, was also shortlisted for the Romantic Novelists' Association Romantic Comedy Novel of the Year award in 2016. Mandy's books have so far been translated into Bulgarian, Czech, German, Hungarian and Italian.
Mandy loves the Greek island of Corfu, wine, cheese, Netflix, country music and handbags. Also a singer, she has taken part in ITV1's Who Dares Sings and The X-Factor. Most recently, Mandy took part in BBC1's Ready Steady Cook with Greek celebrity chef, Akis Petretzikis.
Mandy is a member of the Society of Authors and splits her time between Salisbury, Wiltshire, UK and Corfu, Greece.
Visit Mandy's website at www.mandybaggot.com
Mandy is best-known for her laugh-out-loud romantic comedies featuring strong heroines, gorgeous heroes and always that happy-ever-after!
The winner of the Innovation in Romantic Fiction award at the UK's Festival of Romance, her novel, One Wish in Manhattan, was also shortlisted for the Romantic Novelists' Association Romantic Comedy Novel of the Year award in 2016. Mandy's books have so far been translated into Bulgarian, Czech, German, Hungarian and Italian.
Mandy loves the Greek island of Corfu, wine, cheese, Netflix, country music and handbags. Also a singer, she has taken part in ITV1's Who Dares Sings and The X-Factor. Most recently, Mandy took part in BBC1's Ready Steady Cook with Greek celebrity chef, Akis Petretzikis.
Mandy is a member of the Society of Authors and splits her time between Salisbury, Wiltshire, UK and Corfu, Greece.
Visit Mandy's website at www.mandybaggot.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
December 19, 2023
It was the Greek location that really made this book stand-out for me. Undoubtedly, the writer clearly favours the setting and I thought it made the novel different from so many festive reads. Furthermore, when snow does appear, it felt like my brain was boggled! Trying to comprehend snow in a place where characters had been wandering around in a brisk but not chilly country before the true Christmas weather descends, just shows how unpredictable our climate today can be.
Yet, for the most part I thought this was quite a slow story and the romance between Jen and Astro was not completely convincing. I did not get the sense of their simmering feelings for one another and I don’t think this was helped by the frequent interruptions from friends and family surrounding them. Jen just comes across as quite hopeless and I was not surprised when her financial situation was revealed. I could not picture her as self-employed and whilst her backstory did inform her character actions, I think I was hoping for a more business-minded woman. Thank goodness her friend, Bonnie, pulls Jen up for most of the novel.
As for Astro, he becomes Jen’s guiding light, so to speak, helping her realise that she does have the power to change her life. On the other hand, he is Mr Grinch personified and I did enjoy understanding the extent of Astro’s feelings. Astro is the antithesis of Jen’s other boyfriend in the novel and I found this sub-plot to be too predictable. As this character kept appearing in the story later on, I thought David’s appearances to be awkward and I wish he had been written out of the novel, the lying scumbag.
Jen’s Christmas business remained a mystery to me. I could not understand how she had survived so long with a Christmas-themed concept that would provide her with financial security all year long. Even when she is in Greece, Jen (rightfully) continues to worry about whether her business will succeed and I thought the many phone calls to her employees at home just made the narrative disjointed and chaotic; a distraction from the developing romance plot.
For sure, Baggot takes readers away to Greece in Christmas and I thought the setting descriptions were really vivid and interesting. I did feel like I was wandering the streets with the characters but, as for the romance itself, I was not too convinced in the main characters of Jen and Astro.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Yet, for the most part I thought this was quite a slow story and the romance between Jen and Astro was not completely convincing. I did not get the sense of their simmering feelings for one another and I don’t think this was helped by the frequent interruptions from friends and family surrounding them. Jen just comes across as quite hopeless and I was not surprised when her financial situation was revealed. I could not picture her as self-employed and whilst her backstory did inform her character actions, I think I was hoping for a more business-minded woman. Thank goodness her friend, Bonnie, pulls Jen up for most of the novel.
As for Astro, he becomes Jen’s guiding light, so to speak, helping her realise that she does have the power to change her life. On the other hand, he is Mr Grinch personified and I did enjoy understanding the extent of Astro’s feelings. Astro is the antithesis of Jen’s other boyfriend in the novel and I found this sub-plot to be too predictable. As this character kept appearing in the story later on, I thought David’s appearances to be awkward and I wish he had been written out of the novel, the lying scumbag.
Jen’s Christmas business remained a mystery to me. I could not understand how she had survived so long with a Christmas-themed concept that would provide her with financial security all year long. Even when she is in Greece, Jen (rightfully) continues to worry about whether her business will succeed and I thought the many phone calls to her employees at home just made the narrative disjointed and chaotic; a distraction from the developing romance plot.
For sure, Baggot takes readers away to Greece in Christmas and I thought the setting descriptions were really vivid and interesting. I did feel like I was wandering the streets with the characters but, as for the romance itself, I was not too convinced in the main characters of Jen and Astro.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 8, 2023
In the Greek Midwinter is the seventh book by Mandy Baggot that I have reviewed. Many of hers in Greece have been set in the summer months, but it was a surprise to have one in winter. I've never been to Greece.
I liked the title and synopsis.
Mandy Baggot is brilliant at immersive atmospheres and details. This novel had those, but I felt very pulled out of the story because I felt like everyone except Bonnie was an underdeveloped character who it was hard to get to know. I did like Bonnie, and would have liked to have had her as a friend. I did find, though, that Jen seemed very wrapped up in her life at times, and not as appreciative of Bonnie's presence/help or the small things in life as she should have been.
I was angry at David for canceling the Paris trip, but glad Jen had Bonnie. I liked Bonnie.
I found the idea of Astro, a waiter who hates Christmas, a little cliché, and Jen's meeting him happened too quickly and too easily (meeting in a bar when she has had a bad experience). I was hoping for Jen to have done more soul searching or have tried to have made sense of what had happened with David in her mind, or take more quiet time for herself first.
However I was wondering what was going to happen since David let Jen down.
I had so many questions....What will happen to Jen and David? Will anything happen with Astro? Will Jen stay in Athens or head home? Sadly, I didn't get all of them answered because the book did not hook me enough to make me want to keep going. I did persevere with the book, but it did not work for me and was a DNF. My first ever DNF for Mandy Baggot. I feel sad about that. I wanted to love the book.
Thanks to Mandy Baggot, Boldwood Books and Rachel's Random Resources for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
2 stars.
I liked the title and synopsis.
Mandy Baggot is brilliant at immersive atmospheres and details. This novel had those, but I felt very pulled out of the story because I felt like everyone except Bonnie was an underdeveloped character who it was hard to get to know. I did like Bonnie, and would have liked to have had her as a friend. I did find, though, that Jen seemed very wrapped up in her life at times, and not as appreciative of Bonnie's presence/help or the small things in life as she should have been.
I was angry at David for canceling the Paris trip, but glad Jen had Bonnie. I liked Bonnie.
I found the idea of Astro, a waiter who hates Christmas, a little cliché, and Jen's meeting him happened too quickly and too easily (meeting in a bar when she has had a bad experience). I was hoping for Jen to have done more soul searching or have tried to have made sense of what had happened with David in her mind, or take more quiet time for herself first.
However I was wondering what was going to happen since David let Jen down.
I had so many questions....What will happen to Jen and David? Will anything happen with Astro? Will Jen stay in Athens or head home? Sadly, I didn't get all of them answered because the book did not hook me enough to make me want to keep going. I did persevere with the book, but it did not work for me and was a DNF. My first ever DNF for Mandy Baggot. I feel sad about that. I wanted to love the book.
Thanks to Mandy Baggot, Boldwood Books and Rachel's Random Resources for my eARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
2 stars.
January 12, 2024
As much as I loved the setting in Greece, the story was too slow and easy to lose focus in.
September 29, 2023
I was so excited when I got my hands on this one because Mandy Baggot is one of my go-to authors when i wanna read some light fluffy romance that's based in some exotic location which gives you the feel of actually being there with the characters.
so you see I've read way too many books about Greek summer and sunset in Oia or beaches in Corfu and Mykonos but this was my first time reading about Greece in winter. especially around christmas because when you hear winter nyc or Paris or London is what comes to mind and not Athens.
before we get into details, I wanna make it very clear that this was a sweet adorable story which is just so wholesome, exactly how a holiday read should be.
Now that being said, the characters weren't anything exceptional like mid at best and annoying at worst but still likable enough that you can pass by w/o cursing at them.
Personally i liked the Jen (FMC) more despite her "no one can help me" attitude once I understood where she came from but still think about it irl, like you wouldn't wanna be friends w/ someone who's always pessimistic, so hats-off to Bonnie. her bestfriend, who stuck with her thru everything.
Coming to the MMC, Astro, like he was nice, yes that's the only word for him, but meh.(i love his name tho). as much as i hate guys like David, they exist irl and are far more vile than his guy.
Also i wanted to talk more about bonnie, she was actually way more interesting than everyone in the book. her problems are so mundane that a lot of people will find her relatable. I would love to read more about her if they ever give her a standalone of her own.
there weren't too many miscommunications to begin with but there was too much potential for it but thanks to the damn snow storm, they got shattered which just goes on to prove that snow makes everything right. So, it was a well-balanced holiday read.
THANKS TO NETGALLEY AND THE AUTHOR FOR THE E-ARC.
so you see I've read way too many books about Greek summer and sunset in Oia or beaches in Corfu and Mykonos but this was my first time reading about Greece in winter. especially around christmas because when you hear winter nyc or Paris or London is what comes to mind and not Athens.
before we get into details, I wanna make it very clear that this was a sweet adorable story which is just so wholesome, exactly how a holiday read should be.
Now that being said, the characters weren't anything exceptional like mid at best and annoying at worst but still likable enough that you can pass by w/o cursing at them.
Personally i liked the Jen (FMC) more despite her "no one can help me" attitude once I understood where she came from but still think about it irl, like you wouldn't wanna be friends w/ someone who's always pessimistic, so hats-off to Bonnie. her bestfriend, who stuck with her thru everything.
Coming to the MMC, Astro, like he was nice, yes that's the only word for him, but meh.(i love his name tho). as much as i hate guys like David, they exist irl and are far more vile than his guy.
Also i wanted to talk more about bonnie, she was actually way more interesting than everyone in the book. her problems are so mundane that a lot of people will find her relatable. I would love to read more about her if they ever give her a standalone of her own.
there weren't too many miscommunications to begin with but there was too much potential for it but thanks to the damn snow storm, they got shattered which just goes on to prove that snow makes everything right. So, it was a well-balanced holiday read.
THANKS TO NETGALLEY AND THE AUTHOR FOR THE E-ARC.
September 25, 2023
When Jen’s boyfriend David suddenly cancels their trip to Paris as he has to work in Athens, Jen’s friend Bonnie suggests they head out to Athens to surprise him. Although when Jen arrived in Greece, she finds David is not there leaving her with many questions. When she finally gets her answers she has to decide, does she stay in Greece or return back home? This is a gorgeous Greek festive read that will warm your heart. You’re transported to the streets of Athens and totally immersed into the culture. Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and the author for the chance to review.
September 17, 2023
I really wanted to like this one. I struggled with following the story and I was not invested in the characters. I absolutely loved. WISHING ON A star and enjoyed Those Summer Nights but this one was not my favorite.
#netgalley
#netgalley
October 6, 2023
A romantic break in Paris, at Christmas? Now that’s something we’d all be getting excited about – even Jen, although it means leaving her events company, Christmas Every Day, in the slightly questionable hands of others. She’s understandably disappointed when the trip is cancelled at short notice by boyfriend David, caught up by work commitments in Athens – until best friend Bonnie suggests that they surprise him, and take their own Greek holiday. She’d planned to be away anyway – so why not? The “surprise” element proves a little different from what they’d planned – but hey, they’re in Athens, it’s nearly Christmas, they might as well call it a research trip and enjoy themselves a bit too.
And they certainly do – stumbling into the bar where Astro works carrying a giant candy cane, where Jen receives her first bit of bad news and overdoes it a bit on the brandy cocktails. And the worst news? He hates everything to do with Christmas, but for the very soundest of reasons. As their unlikely friendship develops and deepens, the whole story moves into a different gear – the reasons for Astro’s underlying sadness becomes clear, as does the real complexity of his character, while Jen follows her own path to self-discovery as he introduces her to the real Athens at this wonderful time of year.
And the story is a considerably deeper one and far more emotionally engaging – heartbreaking at times – than I ever expected. At first, the focus is very much on Jen’s disappointment and the fun to be had on holiday with your closest friend – and Bonnie really is quite a character, just the person you need in your corner when your life’s rather falling apart. But after the meeting with Astro, Jen’s real character emerges – the sadness in her own background, the reasons for her passion for the festive season, but also her fascination with the creative arts, including enjoying the crafting of Christmas decorations she does with young Achilles (a wonderful young character, who provides plenty of laughs but also becomes a bit of a catalyst for moving the story into rather deeper waters).
The romance was everything I could have possibly wished for – Jen and Astro were two damaged individuals I entirely took to my heart, and the joy they slowly find in each other intensely moving. I’ve mentioned Bonnie, but the other supporting characters were quite wonderful too – especially Astro’s bar-owner uncle Philippos (I so loved their relationship…) who throws everything a little off-kilter for a while, the magnificent Natalia managing everything at home (after her own fashion… and with the help of her strong-arm Ukrainian family when called for…), and the totally loveable Kathleen who is Jen’s chosen family. And I haven’t even mentioned Peri – now there’s a character with a difference!
After a slightly frenetic start, the humour was all just so perfectly judged – but so was every bit of the emotional content, and some of the story’s twists and turns really touched my heart as I became involved and immersed in the characters’ journeys. But then there’s the setting – and Athens in the midst of the festive season is just the most magical place. The familiar tourist sites without the usual sunshine, the back streets holidaymakers don’t usually get to see, the insights into Greek Christmas customs, the food and drink – goodness, it was so wonderfully done, armchair travel at its very best, as I felt every moment of the experience, present in every moment. The book’s finale – a fantastic set piece that really deserves to be in a Christmas movie – was magnificent, and when the book drew to a close my heart was just overflowing with love and warmth and festive feelings.
A Christmas book unlike any I’ve read before, devoured in a single glorious sitting – the author’s writing really has never been better, and can only urge you to add this book to your festive reading list. It made me laugh, it made me cry, and it entirely captured the spirit of Christmas – I absolutely loved it.
And they certainly do – stumbling into the bar where Astro works carrying a giant candy cane, where Jen receives her first bit of bad news and overdoes it a bit on the brandy cocktails. And the worst news? He hates everything to do with Christmas, but for the very soundest of reasons. As their unlikely friendship develops and deepens, the whole story moves into a different gear – the reasons for Astro’s underlying sadness becomes clear, as does the real complexity of his character, while Jen follows her own path to self-discovery as he introduces her to the real Athens at this wonderful time of year.
And the story is a considerably deeper one and far more emotionally engaging – heartbreaking at times – than I ever expected. At first, the focus is very much on Jen’s disappointment and the fun to be had on holiday with your closest friend – and Bonnie really is quite a character, just the person you need in your corner when your life’s rather falling apart. But after the meeting with Astro, Jen’s real character emerges – the sadness in her own background, the reasons for her passion for the festive season, but also her fascination with the creative arts, including enjoying the crafting of Christmas decorations she does with young Achilles (a wonderful young character, who provides plenty of laughs but also becomes a bit of a catalyst for moving the story into rather deeper waters).
The romance was everything I could have possibly wished for – Jen and Astro were two damaged individuals I entirely took to my heart, and the joy they slowly find in each other intensely moving. I’ve mentioned Bonnie, but the other supporting characters were quite wonderful too – especially Astro’s bar-owner uncle Philippos (I so loved their relationship…) who throws everything a little off-kilter for a while, the magnificent Natalia managing everything at home (after her own fashion… and with the help of her strong-arm Ukrainian family when called for…), and the totally loveable Kathleen who is Jen’s chosen family. And I haven’t even mentioned Peri – now there’s a character with a difference!
After a slightly frenetic start, the humour was all just so perfectly judged – but so was every bit of the emotional content, and some of the story’s twists and turns really touched my heart as I became involved and immersed in the characters’ journeys. But then there’s the setting – and Athens in the midst of the festive season is just the most magical place. The familiar tourist sites without the usual sunshine, the back streets holidaymakers don’t usually get to see, the insights into Greek Christmas customs, the food and drink – goodness, it was so wonderfully done, armchair travel at its very best, as I felt every moment of the experience, present in every moment. The book’s finale – a fantastic set piece that really deserves to be in a Christmas movie – was magnificent, and when the book drew to a close my heart was just overflowing with love and warmth and festive feelings.
A Christmas book unlike any I’ve read before, devoured in a single glorious sitting – the author’s writing really has never been better, and can only urge you to add this book to your festive reading list. It made me laugh, it made me cry, and it entirely captured the spirit of Christmas – I absolutely loved it.
September 19, 2023
The beginning of the book really intrigued me — Jen is jilted by her boyfriend David and she finds herself in Greece with her friend Bonnie — feeling disappointed and angry at the situation— Jen`s trip becomes a quest for self-discovery and adventure. — I think I would`ve maintained interest — if self discovery was more about self discovery without a romance —Romantic lead Astro — I love the name — but I started to lose interest in both Jen and Astro — the more they got involved with each other —I couldn`t maintain investment in their outcome — I guess this book ended up not being my cup of tea — though I really think it has potential and others will enjoy the book —If you`re looking for a Greek Romance -light read— with a flavour of Christmas.
Thank-you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC . This is my honest review .
Thank-you to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC . This is my honest review .
December 11, 2023
I really liked the concept of the book, but I did find it easy to lose focus while reading this book. I do plan to read more books by the author.
How did this book find me? It was a Hoopla recommendation.
How did this book find me? It was a Hoopla recommendation.
December 22, 2023
I have read over thirty holiday romance novels leading up to Christmas, and they’ve all been delightful, endearing, and entertaining. But maybe I was unknowingly saving the best for last! Because THIS book, In the Greek Midwinter by Mandy Baggot, is the book my heart was waiting for. Jen and Astro seem to be a mismatched pair at first (they meet when is carrying an inflatable candy cane which he is set on literally taking all the air out of!); he lives in Athens, she lives in England—many obstacles to overcome. They’d each been “tossed about on the sea of life”, but he has turned his misery into and anger at everyone and everything, including Christmas: while Jen has wrapped her heartache and pain in a big red bow, devoting her entire life to the Christmas season. In so many ways they were same, but also very different—are they better off apart, or can they be stronger together? I loved every single thing about this book! Along with Jen and Astro, they are surrounded by many wonderful characters. Greece is the most wondrous setting for this book. I was a swirl of emotions as I read this book: I was captivated, I was delighted, I laughed, I cried real tears; my heart was completely wrapped up in the lives of these characters as I felt all of their own conflicted emotions. There are so many layers, so much depth to this glorious novel. I know there are only three days until Christmas, but gift yourself a copy of this book to read by the lights of your Christmas tree, and enjoy a Greek midwinter. Kala Christougena 🎄❤️
October 23, 2023
If you believe that everything happens for a reason, then this is the book for you! The fates conspired to bring this sweet romance to an unlikely couple and you'll be delighted that you found them on the pages of this book! She's Christmas on overdrive and he's the Grinch that stole Christmas, two more opposites, you will never find and yet they found each other! What starts out with the potential for heartbreak and backstories for the main characters that will tear at your heart, ends with a wonderful adventure and the possibility of a brighter future! If you like a sweet romance with a happily ever after that has a Christmas theme, then you'll want to travel to Athens with these characters to find that happily ever after with them! This was my first book by this author and I was happily impressed so will be looking for more from her very soon! Happy bonus for audio lovers, the audio was quite good and in my opinion enhanced the story making it even better!
October 8, 2023
This is my second book by Baggot and definitely not my last. It's the perfect winter escapism read, jetting off to Athens and spreading your love of everything Christmas - even if it's not appreciated by certain people.
Jen runs her own company Christmas Every Day, which sounds my idea of perfect and has decided to surprise partner David by visiting him in Greece, except he's not there, she's been ghosted!
It's an entertaining and highly enjoyable, heartwarming story of friends, family and finding love.
⚠️ Do not read this book on an empty stomach, the food descriptions are guaranteed to get your belly rumbling ⚠️
Jen runs her own company Christmas Every Day, which sounds my idea of perfect and has decided to surprise partner David by visiting him in Greece, except he's not there, she's been ghosted!
It's an entertaining and highly enjoyable, heartwarming story of friends, family and finding love.
⚠️ Do not read this book on an empty stomach, the food descriptions are guaranteed to get your belly rumbling ⚠️
October 9, 2023
Having lived in Athens, I was immediately enthralled by this book as most novels set in Greece focus on the islands. it was also refreshing to see the book set in winter, a complete contrast to the usual balmy summers. As a reader, i enjoyed watching the relationship between Jen and Astro develop and their back stories were quite heart-breaking. The supporting characters in the nursing home and Jen's Ukrainian employee were an absolute delight. This really is a book with a difference and as such I loved it from start to finish.
September 26, 2023
A very cute and cozy Christmas romcom. Lots of Greek places to visit and learn about. The relationship moved a little fast for my tastes but it worked out. Not a bad read to settle down with.
January 1, 2024
A joyful Christmas love story
Christmas is everything to Jen- her hope, her business, the thing she clings to, but when she decides to surprise her boyfriend in Athens only to discover that he isn't there and has been lying to her all along, life suddenly gets very interesting. Her stay in Athens introduces Jen to a world full of new possibilities. At times slightly confusing, her life begins to change and joy is a big part of it. From tears to laughter this book has it all!
Christmas is everything to Jen- her hope, her business, the thing she clings to, but when she decides to surprise her boyfriend in Athens only to discover that he isn't there and has been lying to her all along, life suddenly gets very interesting. Her stay in Athens introduces Jen to a world full of new possibilities. At times slightly confusing, her life begins to change and joy is a big part of it. From tears to laughter this book has it all!
September 23, 2023
I really enjoyed the start of this novel and the idea of a romantic Christmas getaway, which would inevitably go awry. However once the trip to Paris was cancelled and one to Greece replaced it the story became a little disjointed and I became unenthusiastic about the characters.
The Christmas element of the book was nice and I liked the concept of 2 people from different countries coming together is usually something I enjoy. However I struggled to like the main characters and found that my favourite was that of the pigeon that features on and off in the story.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Christmas element of the book was nice and I liked the concept of 2 people from different countries coming together is usually something I enjoy. However I struggled to like the main characters and found that my favourite was that of the pigeon that features on and off in the story.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2023
Disappointing over all
Sorry. I normally really enjoy Mandy Baggot's books but this one didn't quite do it for me. Yes, there is humor and yes, it is romantic. There are also two very damaged people, damage we learn about repeatedly, a preposterous climax that requires us to suspend disbelief and a pigeon that "doffs" its head. (Not really, thank heavens.) And it's way too long. Perhaps it would all have more plausible if the man hadn't been named after a cartoon character.
My favorite characters in the book are Natalia and her brothers.
Sorry. I normally really enjoy Mandy Baggot's books but this one didn't quite do it for me. Yes, there is humor and yes, it is romantic. There are also two very damaged people, damage we learn about repeatedly, a preposterous climax that requires us to suspend disbelief and a pigeon that "doffs" its head. (Not really, thank heavens.) And it's way too long. Perhaps it would all have more plausible if the man hadn't been named after a cartoon character.
My favorite characters in the book are Natalia and her brothers.
December 13, 2023
Sounded really cute, and I love the idea of spending the holidays in Greece, but honestly, I was really bored for the whole book.
October 9, 2023
In the Greek Midwinter is an addictive and perfect travel Christmas romp that I could not put down.
Goodness gracious, this book is utter perfection. Mandy has quickly become another insta-buy author for me. In the Greek Midwinter is such an easy book to fall in love with. Mandy is a master at writing a story that transports her readers to various places in Greece. This time, we get to visit Athens right before Christmas. I would never consider visiting Greece in December, but I really want to now. The city and its people just come to life in this book. Mandy captures that Greek essence perfectly. Also, if you are a fan of delicious food talk, you will love all the food scenes in this book. They are so yummy. The story itself is sweet, heartfelt, and full of festive magic. There are plenty of fun, fluffy moments in this story, but also moments with tremendous depth. I felt so happy and content reading this story. That’s probably why I read it in one sitting.
I have to talk about Jen’s friends. They stood out most marvellously. I’ve never fallen so in love with a group of women as I did with these ladies. Bonnie, Natalia, and Kathleen are chef’s kiss perfection. Bonnie is the best kind of friend you can have. She is Jen’s biggest cheerleader and is always there to help Jen when she needs it. She is also quirky, adorable and a hoot. I am secretly hoping she gets her own book. Natalia was hilarious, and I just loved that kind of mafia mentality she had. It added some comic relief to the story at the right moments. Kathleen is like a surrogate mother to Jen. She is 82 and a firecracker. I love her different sayings; they are wack-a-doodle in the best possible way. This group of ladies created this found family for Jen. They support and help each other out, and their love for each other just leaps from the pages. Their friendship with each other is what really makes this story stand out for me.
I liked Jen. She is a great MC, and I only wanted good things for her. At the beginning of this book, it felt like Jen was walking under this little rain cloud. She is kind and compassionate to everyone around her, and her passion for Christmas is contagious. But when it comes to her own well-being and happiness, she becomes more unsure and unwilling to believe that she deserves her own HEA. One thing I liked about her character is that she stands up for herself when needed. When David does her wrong, she doesn’t hesitate to tell him to take a hike, which I love. Jen’s character is too independent though, a product of her upbringing. She doesn’t ask for help. I love watching her character grow and open up to those around her.
The romance in this story is sweet and heartfelt. If you love vacay love stories, you will enjoy the relationship between Jenn and Astro. It was wonderful and so much fun exploring Athens with these two. I loved how Astro showed Jenn those hidden gems that exist within Athens. He also took her to places that meant something to him. I adored the chemistry and connection that Jenn and Astro had. I loved every moment when they were together. I had to keep on reading because I wanted to see what their next interactions would look like. That bond they had just leapt from the pages and stuck with me. Their relationship had this deeper connection almost right from the very beginning. They understood and supported each other.
In The Greek Midwinter is a stunning and heartfelt love story that is hard to put down.
Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/book-rev...
Goodness gracious, this book is utter perfection. Mandy has quickly become another insta-buy author for me. In the Greek Midwinter is such an easy book to fall in love with. Mandy is a master at writing a story that transports her readers to various places in Greece. This time, we get to visit Athens right before Christmas. I would never consider visiting Greece in December, but I really want to now. The city and its people just come to life in this book. Mandy captures that Greek essence perfectly. Also, if you are a fan of delicious food talk, you will love all the food scenes in this book. They are so yummy. The story itself is sweet, heartfelt, and full of festive magic. There are plenty of fun, fluffy moments in this story, but also moments with tremendous depth. I felt so happy and content reading this story. That’s probably why I read it in one sitting.
I have to talk about Jen’s friends. They stood out most marvellously. I’ve never fallen so in love with a group of women as I did with these ladies. Bonnie, Natalia, and Kathleen are chef’s kiss perfection. Bonnie is the best kind of friend you can have. She is Jen’s biggest cheerleader and is always there to help Jen when she needs it. She is also quirky, adorable and a hoot. I am secretly hoping she gets her own book. Natalia was hilarious, and I just loved that kind of mafia mentality she had. It added some comic relief to the story at the right moments. Kathleen is like a surrogate mother to Jen. She is 82 and a firecracker. I love her different sayings; they are wack-a-doodle in the best possible way. This group of ladies created this found family for Jen. They support and help each other out, and their love for each other just leaps from the pages. Their friendship with each other is what really makes this story stand out for me.
I liked Jen. She is a great MC, and I only wanted good things for her. At the beginning of this book, it felt like Jen was walking under this little rain cloud. She is kind and compassionate to everyone around her, and her passion for Christmas is contagious. But when it comes to her own well-being and happiness, she becomes more unsure and unwilling to believe that she deserves her own HEA. One thing I liked about her character is that she stands up for herself when needed. When David does her wrong, she doesn’t hesitate to tell him to take a hike, which I love. Jen’s character is too independent though, a product of her upbringing. She doesn’t ask for help. I love watching her character grow and open up to those around her.
The romance in this story is sweet and heartfelt. If you love vacay love stories, you will enjoy the relationship between Jenn and Astro. It was wonderful and so much fun exploring Athens with these two. I loved how Astro showed Jenn those hidden gems that exist within Athens. He also took her to places that meant something to him. I adored the chemistry and connection that Jenn and Astro had. I loved every moment when they were together. I had to keep on reading because I wanted to see what their next interactions would look like. That bond they had just leapt from the pages and stuck with me. Their relationship had this deeper connection almost right from the very beginning. They understood and supported each other.
In The Greek Midwinter is a stunning and heartfelt love story that is hard to put down.
Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/book-rev...
January 3, 2025
**Synopsis:** Jen runs a company called “Christmas Every Day” which plans a variety of events with a Christmas flair. Her business is struggling right now and she’s living out of her office, but she’s determined. Given up young, Jen moved through a series of foster homes, never really having stability or anyone to lean on until she met Kathleen and Gerald, a couple who owned a holiday store and “unofficially” adopted her. Kathleen is now in a nursing home, raising hell for all the nurses about terrible food. Jen has a best friend, Bonnie, whose family is driving her crazy, and an assistant/friend named Natalia from the Ukraine who has several brothers willing to do just about anything, no questions asked. She also has a boyfriend, David, who has insisted she take off work at her busiest time so they can go to Paris together. But at the last minute, he cancels due to work, claiming he has been sent to Greece. Bonnie insists she join him and buys the tickets, figuring they can do a little Christmas research while there (and she can escape her sister who is frustrating her). Upon arrival, Jen quickly learns David’s not there. (SPOILER- he’s in Paris with his wife… yep he’s married.)
Astro is a bartender who lives with his uncle (the bar owner) and secretly loves doing street art. What’s not a secret is how much he hates Christmas. His mother died when he was young of an aneurysm on Christmas day. His uncle is insisting on decorating this year, which he is finding irritating. His coworker, Marjorie, tells him to suck it up and her son Achilles begs him to help with Christmas bracelets. At least his pet pigeon, Perry, takes his side.
The two cross paths at the bar when an inflatable candy cane is popped and before either knows what’s happening, Astro and Jen find themselves falling. But if their views on Christmas weren’t different enough, the distance definitely makes envisioning a future harder. Lots of cute romantic scenes of them getting to know one another and fun scenes of Jen helping Achilles with his projects. Meanwhile, a major event Jen has going on at home for a historical society is falling apart and Kathleen goes briefly missing.
Astro learns that his uncle is planning to sell the bar and loses it for a while. But he eventually accepts that change and moving on could be a good thing. Jen and her group put together a livestream Geek Christmas to save her event. Her and Astro decide to try to make it work. Jen also learns to lean on the people who love her (even if Natalia’s go to solution is always making her brothers wear costumes or kick ass).
**Thoughts:** This should have been great but… something in the pacing was a bit off. It took a while for me to get fully INTO the story. I also am not sure why the title went with “Midwinter” other than to be different? I acknowledge my attention wasn’t always perfect but it seemed the Greeks celebrate Christmas, not some other winter holiday. I did appreciate the setting and the side characters were BRILLIANT. Achilles, Marjorie, Kathleen, and Natalia were particularly vivid. But that may have been the problem- Jen and Astro were quite bland by comparison, especially in the first half of the book. I will say this is worth reading and it’s worth finishing if you like the characters even a bit, but I couldn’t quite get myself to rate it higher than 3.5.
Astro is a bartender who lives with his uncle (the bar owner) and secretly loves doing street art. What’s not a secret is how much he hates Christmas. His mother died when he was young of an aneurysm on Christmas day. His uncle is insisting on decorating this year, which he is finding irritating. His coworker, Marjorie, tells him to suck it up and her son Achilles begs him to help with Christmas bracelets. At least his pet pigeon, Perry, takes his side.
The two cross paths at the bar when an inflatable candy cane is popped and before either knows what’s happening, Astro and Jen find themselves falling. But if their views on Christmas weren’t different enough, the distance definitely makes envisioning a future harder. Lots of cute romantic scenes of them getting to know one another and fun scenes of Jen helping Achilles with his projects. Meanwhile, a major event Jen has going on at home for a historical society is falling apart and Kathleen goes briefly missing.
Astro learns that his uncle is planning to sell the bar and loses it for a while. But he eventually accepts that change and moving on could be a good thing. Jen and her group put together a livestream Geek Christmas to save her event. Her and Astro decide to try to make it work. Jen also learns to lean on the people who love her (even if Natalia’s go to solution is always making her brothers wear costumes or kick ass).
**Thoughts:** This should have been great but… something in the pacing was a bit off. It took a while for me to get fully INTO the story. I also am not sure why the title went with “Midwinter” other than to be different? I acknowledge my attention wasn’t always perfect but it seemed the Greeks celebrate Christmas, not some other winter holiday. I did appreciate the setting and the side characters were BRILLIANT. Achilles, Marjorie, Kathleen, and Natalia were particularly vivid. But that may have been the problem- Jen and Astro were quite bland by comparison, especially in the first half of the book. I will say this is worth reading and it’s worth finishing if you like the characters even a bit, but I couldn’t quite get myself to rate it higher than 3.5.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 5, 2023
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Mandy Baggot for a copy of In The Greek Midwinter to review in exchange for an honest review. It took me a little time to get engaged in the story of the In The Greek Midwinter. About the midpoint, I felt the story clicked into place, aligning under the Christmas stars - a cute Christmas read set amongst the exotic backdrop of Athens.
I think the balance of grumpiness between the two main characters embroiled in this romance, probably steered the plot very negatively at the start. Jen and Astro read like they wanted to be anywhere else but in Greece at Christmas (both for good reasons) but the grumpiness was not endearing across each turn of the page. Thank goodness for the bright spark of Bonnie, who is Jen’s best friend, who carries all the Christmas cheer through and lights up the dreary demeanor of the pessimistic Jen and grumpy Astro. I wanted to read more about Bonnie’s story.
I wish more of Astro’s art and emotional turmoil had been clearer in the narrative from the start of the story. His aversion to Christmas labeled him a Grinch to me from reading his point of view. He’s earmarked for the Christmas miracle plotline to help him find his love of Christmas, I’d have loved to see more of why behind this a lot sooner in the plot as it would have given his character more depth and emotional tug sooner. Jen’s problems and pains are as plain as daylight from the get-go of the story, there is no mystery with what’s coming with her and Dave (you will guess it a couple of chapters in). I did cheer for Jen’s demonstration of strong will, she’s a lady who knows how to lay down the law.
What I did love about this story was the descriptive ambiance and the cultural insights we get into Athens at Christmas. The tacky Christmas decorations come through for the tourists, but look beyond and you get beautiful and vivid imagery of the streets of Athens, Greek festive traditions, and some delicious foodie elements to tempt you. The contrast between British and Greek Christmas set some lovely tones in the story. The pacing flipped back and forwards a couple of times in the plot, not quite finding a steady beat with the inclusion of strange sidebar subplots that feature in the story that weren’t my cup of tea. Added some bumps in the road and antsy of the character journey and brought Jen and Astro closer.
If you can hold out with books that go meandering for a while before getting to the meat of the story (at least 10 chapters), you will find a reading book with the wait to reveal is cute, warm fuzzy Christmas romance story with a lot of nice alternative festive cozy scenes (the Greek style version). A 2.5 read for me, rounding up to a 3 because I did enjoy the exotic setting and insights into Greek Christmas culture.
I think the balance of grumpiness between the two main characters embroiled in this romance, probably steered the plot very negatively at the start. Jen and Astro read like they wanted to be anywhere else but in Greece at Christmas (both for good reasons) but the grumpiness was not endearing across each turn of the page. Thank goodness for the bright spark of Bonnie, who is Jen’s best friend, who carries all the Christmas cheer through and lights up the dreary demeanor of the pessimistic Jen and grumpy Astro. I wanted to read more about Bonnie’s story.
I wish more of Astro’s art and emotional turmoil had been clearer in the narrative from the start of the story. His aversion to Christmas labeled him a Grinch to me from reading his point of view. He’s earmarked for the Christmas miracle plotline to help him find his love of Christmas, I’d have loved to see more of why behind this a lot sooner in the plot as it would have given his character more depth and emotional tug sooner. Jen’s problems and pains are as plain as daylight from the get-go of the story, there is no mystery with what’s coming with her and Dave (you will guess it a couple of chapters in). I did cheer for Jen’s demonstration of strong will, she’s a lady who knows how to lay down the law.
What I did love about this story was the descriptive ambiance and the cultural insights we get into Athens at Christmas. The tacky Christmas decorations come through for the tourists, but look beyond and you get beautiful and vivid imagery of the streets of Athens, Greek festive traditions, and some delicious foodie elements to tempt you. The contrast between British and Greek Christmas set some lovely tones in the story. The pacing flipped back and forwards a couple of times in the plot, not quite finding a steady beat with the inclusion of strange sidebar subplots that feature in the story that weren’t my cup of tea. Added some bumps in the road and antsy of the character journey and brought Jen and Astro closer.
If you can hold out with books that go meandering for a while before getting to the meat of the story (at least 10 chapters), you will find a reading book with the wait to reveal is cute, warm fuzzy Christmas romance story with a lot of nice alternative festive cozy scenes (the Greek style version). A 2.5 read for me, rounding up to a 3 because I did enjoy the exotic setting and insights into Greek Christmas culture.
October 3, 2023
I think this might be the Mandy Baggot book we have all been waiting for, for I know she is the queen of the summer Greek romance, and also has previously written Christmas books set in some stunning typically festive locations - but the one thing I've wanted is a Christmas Book set in Greece!
And boy has she delivered, and even more surprisingly instead of one of her beloved islands, it is set in Athens itself. (Something that wouldn't have surprised me had I actually read the blurb at any point!).
When you say Athens to me I instantly conure up one of my port stops on a cruise, and just how ridiculously hot the city is in the height of summer. So I was very curious to see just how the Greeks celebrate Christmas and indeed what the weather would be like.
And I can safely say that Mandy Baggot has sold me on the idea of visiting Greece in the winter months, especially the run up to Christmas, as it sounds gorgeous, while also not causing humans to melt!
Some of the locations I could picture so clearly from my own day in Athens, or from researching the city for a different cruise - and I loved how I could imagine everything and it felt like I was there.
And the characters, special shout out to Jen's assistant Natalia who has a fabulous turn of phrase, and some rather insane sounding brothers. And to Kathleen and Bonnie who are also both fabulous in their own ways. These ladies are essentially Jen's family and have her back the whole time and I just loved all their dynamics.
Seeing Jen and Astro develop over the course of the book is great. I loved getting to know Astro, Peri and Achilles especially.
And they really are opposites in their views on Christmas, but in terms of upbringing there are some similarities which I think they recognised in each other. And seeing them open up and reveal parts of themselves that others rarely see was beautiful.
I just loved every single page of this story, and couldn't get enough of it. A total triumph, left me smiling and keen to fly to Greece!
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
And boy has she delivered, and even more surprisingly instead of one of her beloved islands, it is set in Athens itself. (Something that wouldn't have surprised me had I actually read the blurb at any point!).
When you say Athens to me I instantly conure up one of my port stops on a cruise, and just how ridiculously hot the city is in the height of summer. So I was very curious to see just how the Greeks celebrate Christmas and indeed what the weather would be like.
And I can safely say that Mandy Baggot has sold me on the idea of visiting Greece in the winter months, especially the run up to Christmas, as it sounds gorgeous, while also not causing humans to melt!
Some of the locations I could picture so clearly from my own day in Athens, or from researching the city for a different cruise - and I loved how I could imagine everything and it felt like I was there.
And the characters, special shout out to Jen's assistant Natalia who has a fabulous turn of phrase, and some rather insane sounding brothers. And to Kathleen and Bonnie who are also both fabulous in their own ways. These ladies are essentially Jen's family and have her back the whole time and I just loved all their dynamics.
Seeing Jen and Astro develop over the course of the book is great. I loved getting to know Astro, Peri and Achilles especially.
And they really are opposites in their views on Christmas, but in terms of upbringing there are some similarities which I think they recognised in each other. And seeing them open up and reveal parts of themselves that others rarely see was beautiful.
I just loved every single page of this story, and couldn't get enough of it. A total triumph, left me smiling and keen to fly to Greece!
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
October 8, 2023
Do I look forward to Mandy Baggot’s ‘festive’ books? You bet I do. Do I love when Mandy whisks us away to glorious locations? Always. Have I loved the combination of both? ABSOLUTELY!!
After some of my favourite festive reads over the years, In the Greek Midwinter is yet another gem that left me ready for the season ahead. It is heartwarming and romantic but at it’s core it’s about people allowing themselves to believe – whether that’s in other people or a little bit festive magic. It’s a story of two people who both had difficult starts in life, coming together and discovering they have so much more in common than they realised.
Jen is a festive fanatic, the season reminds her of the moments in life she can think of fondly. She doesn’t let people in, not easily and never completely. She can put hurt behind her – or so she thinks. When a romantic break doesn’t go as planned, a change of scene leads to some life changing discoveries.
Astro cannot stand the season and rallies against his uncles plans to decorate everything. The season intensifies a pain he cannot move on from. His hidden passion is a way for him to unleash his feelings, even if it risks getting in trouble.
When their worlds collide, can they find a way to get along with each feeling so strongly. I loved the dynamic between these two characters, seeing how their relationship developed over the course of the book.
A whole cast of supporting characters make this book so entertaining and really funny. I loved Natalia – Jen’s ‘colleague’ from the Ukraine who looks after her business whilst Jen is in Greece. She is very “gangster- esq” but in a humorous way, someone to keep onside. Achilles is a brilliant character, his enthusiasm for all things jumps off the page.
A great book to cosy up with this festive season, let the snow fall (no matter where you may be!) and enjoy the read. Another great story from Mandy Baggot, festive and in Greece; what a fab combination.
After some of my favourite festive reads over the years, In the Greek Midwinter is yet another gem that left me ready for the season ahead. It is heartwarming and romantic but at it’s core it’s about people allowing themselves to believe – whether that’s in other people or a little bit festive magic. It’s a story of two people who both had difficult starts in life, coming together and discovering they have so much more in common than they realised.
Jen is a festive fanatic, the season reminds her of the moments in life she can think of fondly. She doesn’t let people in, not easily and never completely. She can put hurt behind her – or so she thinks. When a romantic break doesn’t go as planned, a change of scene leads to some life changing discoveries.
Astro cannot stand the season and rallies against his uncles plans to decorate everything. The season intensifies a pain he cannot move on from. His hidden passion is a way for him to unleash his feelings, even if it risks getting in trouble.
When their worlds collide, can they find a way to get along with each feeling so strongly. I loved the dynamic between these two characters, seeing how their relationship developed over the course of the book.
A whole cast of supporting characters make this book so entertaining and really funny. I loved Natalia – Jen’s ‘colleague’ from the Ukraine who looks after her business whilst Jen is in Greece. She is very “gangster- esq” but in a humorous way, someone to keep onside. Achilles is a brilliant character, his enthusiasm for all things jumps off the page.
A great book to cosy up with this festive season, let the snow fall (no matter where you may be!) and enjoy the read. Another great story from Mandy Baggot, festive and in Greece; what a fab combination.
September 24, 2023
*I received a free ARC from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review*
I had a difficult time getting into this story because I found Jen to be difficult to like. I understand why she is the way she is, but it's so hard getting invested in someone when they are so negative all the time. I give Bonnie so much credit for staying by her side for so long. Especially after the whole debacle with David because Jen didn't quite blame Bonnie, but let her feel terrible for having encouraged Jen to try online dating in the first place. She is also the classic "I'll help everyone but no one can help me" kind of personality. I am glad that I stuck with the book though because I did enjoy watching Jen learn to open up a little to others (mostly Astro) and to be open to being helped when she needed it. I also really liked watching Astro start to process his grief after so many years. I loved the little moments of levity with Natalia - I think we all wish we could have someone with her connections on our side. There were a few times when I thought the story was getting ready to wind-down only for some new obstacle be thrown in Jen's way - she's very lucky for the snowstorm, it most likely prevented her from making a terrible decision and losing what she was starting to develop with Astro. For a follow up to this story I would love to know what happens with Bonnie in the future - does she reconcile with her sister? does she open up to her parents about how their actions regarding her sister make her feel? does she get her own romance? I need answers!
I had a difficult time getting into this story because I found Jen to be difficult to like. I understand why she is the way she is, but it's so hard getting invested in someone when they are so negative all the time. I give Bonnie so much credit for staying by her side for so long. Especially after the whole debacle with David because Jen didn't quite blame Bonnie, but let her feel terrible for having encouraged Jen to try online dating in the first place. She is also the classic "I'll help everyone but no one can help me" kind of personality. I am glad that I stuck with the book though because I did enjoy watching Jen learn to open up a little to others (mostly Astro) and to be open to being helped when she needed it. I also really liked watching Astro start to process his grief after so many years. I loved the little moments of levity with Natalia - I think we all wish we could have someone with her connections on our side. There were a few times when I thought the story was getting ready to wind-down only for some new obstacle be thrown in Jen's way - she's very lucky for the snowstorm, it most likely prevented her from making a terrible decision and losing what she was starting to develop with Astro. For a follow up to this story I would love to know what happens with Bonnie in the future - does she reconcile with her sister? does she open up to her parents about how their actions regarding her sister make her feel? does she get her own romance? I need answers!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 21, 2023
I was right to look forward to this brilliant festive read
If you enjoy festive romcoms it could be just what you need!
Jan is meant to go to Paris for Christmas this year
But her boyfriend has to work, so no trip he fears.
He cancels their holiday and goes to Greece instead
Jen is coerced to surprise him - much to her dread.
Discovering that he's not there after all
Leads to more than one dramatic phone call.
A story about learning to trust and to give love a chance
Which may help lead on to a heartwarming romance.
An candy cane, a bracelet, an accident and fate
All intervene for Jen and Bonnie, her best mate!
Staying in Athens, helping a lovely, young Greek lad...
Discovering the helpful Greek waiter finds Christmas sad.
Can this Christmas loving Brit help him to discover
That Christmas is great to spend with each other?
A fun, heartwarming story with family dramas, too,
And Jen endeavouring to work all the way through.
With art, new friends and surprises galore
As well as some new Greek customs to explore.
I really enjoyed reading this gorgeous book
And hope you have the opportunity to give it more than a look.
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review.
If you enjoy festive romcoms it could be just what you need!
Jan is meant to go to Paris for Christmas this year
But her boyfriend has to work, so no trip he fears.
He cancels their holiday and goes to Greece instead
Jen is coerced to surprise him - much to her dread.
Discovering that he's not there after all
Leads to more than one dramatic phone call.
A story about learning to trust and to give love a chance
Which may help lead on to a heartwarming romance.
An candy cane, a bracelet, an accident and fate
All intervene for Jen and Bonnie, her best mate!
Staying in Athens, helping a lovely, young Greek lad...
Discovering the helpful Greek waiter finds Christmas sad.
Can this Christmas loving Brit help him to discover
That Christmas is great to spend with each other?
A fun, heartwarming story with family dramas, too,
And Jen endeavouring to work all the way through.
With art, new friends and surprises galore
As well as some new Greek customs to explore.
I really enjoyed reading this gorgeous book
And hope you have the opportunity to give it more than a look.
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
As I share with you this, my honest review.
October 10, 2023
I love a Mandy Baggot book, whether warm or cold she is one of my go to authors for a book I know will leave me warm and smiling by the end, sure there maybe some tears along the way but I know there’ll plenty of laughter too. This is why I automatically buy her books, she’s a sure bet for guaranteed happiness.
I adore her characters , they always feel like old friends and not just our leading characters, the supporting cast too such as Bonnie, she was the kind of friend anyone would love to have, Bonnie is Jean’s godsend when David cancels Paris , which I would have killed him, you get so mad ! But then we have Astro, and Jen's meeting him was as much a lifesaver as Bonnie. I am not going to say much more as no spoilers here.
Will Jen stay in Athens ? What will become of Jen and David? Well read In The Greek Midwinter and you will find your answers , you won’t be disappointed, looking for some winter sun from the comfort of your own home, some romance, a little bit of drama, an entertaining and addictive read. Then look no further, you need to read In the Greek Midwinter.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I adore her characters , they always feel like old friends and not just our leading characters, the supporting cast too such as Bonnie, she was the kind of friend anyone would love to have, Bonnie is Jean’s godsend when David cancels Paris , which I would have killed him, you get so mad ! But then we have Astro, and Jen's meeting him was as much a lifesaver as Bonnie. I am not going to say much more as no spoilers here.
Will Jen stay in Athens ? What will become of Jen and David? Well read In The Greek Midwinter and you will find your answers , you won’t be disappointed, looking for some winter sun from the comfort of your own home, some romance, a little bit of drama, an entertaining and addictive read. Then look no further, you need to read In the Greek Midwinter.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 14, 2023
This is a festive story with a twist as it is set in Athens and you certainly get a feeling for different parts of the city. At its heart is the Parthenon which stands as a symbol of the history which surrounds the city. Jen turns out to be an interesting character with a complicated backstory. She has lacked a traditional family as a child but as you come to realise, there are people who care about her. She has tried to protect herself in the past by burying herself in her work. However, she is also immersing herself in all that has made her feel safe in the past.
Astro has a lot in common with Jen. He too has felt a lack of family in his past and buried what he really wants to do so as to avoid criticism. There are plenty of humorous moments as the story unfolds. Some are associated with the children in the story but others with a rather curious pigeon. Others in the story have their own issues to work through but what emerges is a sense of the Universe clicking into position and hope for the coming year.
In short: cultures clash as the stars collide
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
Astro has a lot in common with Jen. He too has felt a lack of family in his past and buried what he really wants to do so as to avoid criticism. There are plenty of humorous moments as the story unfolds. Some are associated with the children in the story but others with a rather curious pigeon. Others in the story have their own issues to work through but what emerges is a sense of the Universe clicking into position and hope for the coming year.
In short: cultures clash as the stars collide
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
November 30, 2025
In the Greek Midwinter by Mandy Baggot
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
It was supposed to be a holiday of a lifetime…
But when Jen’s boyfriend David suddenly cancels their romantic Paris trip, needing to urgently travel to Athens for work, it’s best friend Bonnie who suggests they surprise him.
Having already booked the time off from her events company – Christmas Every Day – Jen decides an impromptu and romantic gesture might be just what their relationship needs.
Arriving in Greece and finding David is not there, Jen has a lot of questions. And when she gets her answers she has a choice – should she go home or should she stay a while?
With the help of Astro, the handsome yet Christmas-hating waiter from the local bar, she sets about a little Greek Christmas research. But what starts as a ‘business trip’ soon turns into something more…
My Opinion
Mandy Baggot has written a lovely, festive novel. A delightful and entertaining book with some lovely characters. A great read for the holidays.
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
It was supposed to be a holiday of a lifetime…
But when Jen’s boyfriend David suddenly cancels their romantic Paris trip, needing to urgently travel to Athens for work, it’s best friend Bonnie who suggests they surprise him.
Having already booked the time off from her events company – Christmas Every Day – Jen decides an impromptu and romantic gesture might be just what their relationship needs.
Arriving in Greece and finding David is not there, Jen has a lot of questions. And when she gets her answers she has a choice – should she go home or should she stay a while?
With the help of Astro, the handsome yet Christmas-hating waiter from the local bar, she sets about a little Greek Christmas research. But what starts as a ‘business trip’ soon turns into something more…
My Opinion
Mandy Baggot has written a lovely, festive novel. A delightful and entertaining book with some lovely characters. A great read for the holidays.
Rating 4/5
October 3, 2023
In the Greek Midwinter makes me want to book the next flight to Greece. Jen's boyfriend, David, cancels their romantic trip to Paris last minute because of an unexpected work trip to Athens. Jen and her friend Bonnie decide to travel to Greece to surprise him.
Arriving in Greece they realize that David isn't there. Deciding to stay leads to a Greek adventure with the help of Astro. It's important to note that Jen loves Christmas and all things Christmas. Astro is a self proposed Christmas hater. They both hold on to the feelings as a way to deal with their past.
I really enjoyed the book. The relationship between Astro and Jen developing throughout the book despite their differences in opinion was sweet.
I did think that the last 10-20% of the book did slow down a little and introduced challenges that felt bigger than they ended up being. This is also a story that relied on a strong supporting cast and their relationships to the main characters. It was a great balance.
Thank you to the NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Arriving in Greece they realize that David isn't there. Deciding to stay leads to a Greek adventure with the help of Astro. It's important to note that Jen loves Christmas and all things Christmas. Astro is a self proposed Christmas hater. They both hold on to the feelings as a way to deal with their past.
I really enjoyed the book. The relationship between Astro and Jen developing throughout the book despite their differences in opinion was sweet.
I did think that the last 10-20% of the book did slow down a little and introduced challenges that felt bigger than they ended up being. This is also a story that relied on a strong supporting cast and their relationships to the main characters. It was a great balance.
Thank you to the NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 4, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for giving me this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
In the Greek Midwinter was a cozy Christmas romcom. I really liked that the location was based in Greece, and it made me want to book a flight. I found this story to be an adorable quick read that didn't get too deep. This story follows Jen, who takes a spur-of-the-moment trip to surprise her boyfriend David while he's working in Greece. However, when she arrives in Greece, she finds out that David isn't actually there. Luckily, she traveled to Greece with her best friend Bonnie, who convinces her to stay in Greece and enjoy the holiday. She ends up getting immersed in the culture of Greece but can't decide if she truly wants to stay there for the holiday or return back home.
I would have liked to see more depth within the two main characters. I just felt as though something was missing. I ended up liking Bonnie the most. Overall, if you need a cozy read that you won't have to dive into, then this one's for you!
In the Greek Midwinter was a cozy Christmas romcom. I really liked that the location was based in Greece, and it made me want to book a flight. I found this story to be an adorable quick read that didn't get too deep. This story follows Jen, who takes a spur-of-the-moment trip to surprise her boyfriend David while he's working in Greece. However, when she arrives in Greece, she finds out that David isn't actually there. Luckily, she traveled to Greece with her best friend Bonnie, who convinces her to stay in Greece and enjoy the holiday. She ends up getting immersed in the culture of Greece but can't decide if she truly wants to stay there for the holiday or return back home.
I would have liked to see more depth within the two main characters. I just felt as though something was missing. I ended up liking Bonnie the most. Overall, if you need a cozy read that you won't have to dive into, then this one's for you!
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