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Greek Village/Greek Island #4
The Gypsy's Dream
Alternate cover for this ASIN can be found here: The Gypsy's Dream
Cross at Dad, Abby, 17, boards a flight to Greece, but gets hopelessly lost and ends up in the wrong village.
Alone, with very little money, no Greek and no way to contact her friend Jackie, who has lined up a bar job for her, Abby realises she has to stand on her own two feet for the first time…
She meets Stella, who runs the local ouzeri - a rough and ready eatery were farmers gather to drink and take refuge from their domestic lives.
Stella does not need a naive young English girl hanging around, and the ouzeri is not the glamorous bar that Abby had bargained for. But when events throw them together, the situation brings to the boil tensions that have been brewing for years, the ripples drawing in other people in the village, threatening Abby's ability to ever leave, culminating in shocking unforeseen events and the uncovering of dark secrets that change peoples' thinking about themselves and others permanently.
Cross at Dad, Abby, 17, boards a flight to Greece, but gets hopelessly lost and ends up in the wrong village.
Alone, with very little money, no Greek and no way to contact her friend Jackie, who has lined up a bar job for her, Abby realises she has to stand on her own two feet for the first time…
She meets Stella, who runs the local ouzeri - a rough and ready eatery were farmers gather to drink and take refuge from their domestic lives.
Stella does not need a naive young English girl hanging around, and the ouzeri is not the glamorous bar that Abby had bargained for. But when events throw them together, the situation brings to the boil tensions that have been brewing for years, the ripples drawing in other people in the village, threatening Abby's ability to ever leave, culminating in shocking unforeseen events and the uncovering of dark secrets that change peoples' thinking about themselves and others permanently.
370 pages, ebook
First published May 2, 2013
281 people are currently reading
1114 people want to read
About the author
Sara Alexi
37 books317 followersBest selling author Sara Alexi was born in Oxford, England. After travelling widely she now splits her time between England and a tiny rural village in the Peloponnese, in Greece, where she has renovated a stone farmhouse, whilst observing the Greek way of life and absorbing the culture.
As a qualified psychotherapist, Sara ran her own practice for years. Her artistic nature was, during that time, confined to painting and she exhibited widely. Her move to Greece was the catalyst that began her writing.
Her 'Greek Village Series' has been very well received and provides a keenly observed, compassionate insight into the Greek people and culture, and the human condition in general.
If you would like a complementary copy of the first in "The Greek Village" Series please follow the links on her web site.
www.Saraalexi.com
She would also love you to friend her on;
https://www.facebook.com/authorsaraalexi
You can also read a recent interview with Sara here: https://saraalexi.com/2016/03/19/unde...
As a qualified psychotherapist, Sara ran her own practice for years. Her artistic nature was, during that time, confined to painting and she exhibited widely. Her move to Greece was the catalyst that began her writing.
Her 'Greek Village Series' has been very well received and provides a keenly observed, compassionate insight into the Greek people and culture, and the human condition in general.
If you would like a complementary copy of the first in "The Greek Village" Series please follow the links on her web site.
www.Saraalexi.com
She would also love you to friend her on;
https://www.facebook.com/authorsaraalexi
You can also read a recent interview with Sara here: https://saraalexi.com/2016/03/19/unde...
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews
October 14, 2016
I adore these Greek Village books; there's something comforting about them that offers a very relaxing and yet compulsive read. They're about people and their interactions with others, and the two combined make me want to read on and on without pause until the story is finished. Knowing that the next book will contain the same characters and likely introduce at least one new character, or add flesh to a peripheral character from a previous book, pushes me to want to read the next.
They may not be to everyone's taste, I wouldn't have thought they'd have been mine, but they are and I highly recommend them.
They may not be to everyone's taste, I wouldn't have thought they'd have been mine, but they are and I highly recommend them.
April 29, 2013
Sara Alexi's Greek Village series just keeps getting better and better. Others have detailed the plot here, so I'll skip that and say that what I appreciate about Alexi's work--especially in The Illegal Gardner and here in The Gypsy's Dream--is how she gets inside the skin of her characters and makes them live on the page. I feel as though I know each one of them, their struggles and triumphs, their innermost thoughts. It's the rare writer who can pull that off in one book, much less in four. Read this book. You'll like it.
March 18, 2018
A fabulous novel set in Greece.
June 18, 2013
I would give this book 3.8 stars if I could. Of the Greek Village series this is the one I like second best. My favourite still being The Illegal Gardener. I like the idea of all these stories taking place in the same locale with the focus shifting from one character to another in the different 'episodes'. There is quite a bit of internal monologues going on which gives insight into the characters.
The story does not demand a lot of attention and flows along at a nice pace. Characters show development, although I do find some of the characters to be somewhat naive. I also found it a little strange that a minor would be permitted to book flights and travel abroad without parental consent ever being sought.
All in all I enjoyed the book and would recommend to other readers who enjoy something light to relax with.
The story does not demand a lot of attention and flows along at a nice pace. Characters show development, although I do find some of the characters to be somewhat naive. I also found it a little strange that a minor would be permitted to book flights and travel abroad without parental consent ever being sought.
All in all I enjoyed the book and would recommend to other readers who enjoy something light to relax with.
June 18, 2015
I didn't really like or dislike this book, I thought it was just okay. It's very slow moving and by the time I wanted to stop reading, it picked up and kept me interested enough to finish. I loved the female characters the more the story progressed and it was nice to see them stand up for one another when needed.
September 12, 2013
Over all a good story, though I did get a little frustrated when certain characters make incredibly stupid decisions, jump to conclusions, and make assumptions with absolutely no proof. I did like the story, set in a primative Greek village, the background is exotic and the characters are interesting and sympathetic. Has a good ending, worth reading.
May 8, 2014
I really wanted to love this book. It is set it a Greek village and that interested me. I just couldn't get excited about it and had to force myself to finish it.
August 4, 2017
Good book
You people should just read this book yourselves and write your own review on this novel yourself and I really enjoyed reading this book very much so. Shelley MA
You people should just read this book yourselves and write your own review on this novel yourself and I really enjoyed reading this book very much so. Shelley MA
August 1, 2013
The Gypsy's Dream by Sara Alexi is the fourth novel in her Greek Village series, and long may they continue. With every story we get closer to the characters who inhabit this small village, tucked away in the Greek countryside. Mostly the brilliant Greek sunlight shines, but sometimes storm clouds darken the skies, reflecting the true nature and depth of Alexi's characters. And they can be dark, very dark... Herein lies the success of this author's craft, her characters are real human beings, getting on with life against all the odds, albeit in a place some might consider a paradise. But as the current crisis in Greece so clearly illustrates there can be snakes in Eden, and Alexi's writing could be an allegory for this.
The author in a past life has been a psychotherapist and an artist and both skills are used as she beautifully paints in words the hidden depths of her characters. What she does so well is to illuminate the protagonists of her books from many different perspectives, making the reader understand that all is not as it first might appear. The books are like sliding panels, each displaying a different view of the same world. The technique gives the villagers real human dimensions, and for that reason we care about their fate. I understand that the next book in the series is already underway, and the extent to which I am already eager to further indulge my habit is a testimony to the skill of this terrific writer. Richard Clark
The author in a past life has been a psychotherapist and an artist and both skills are used as she beautifully paints in words the hidden depths of her characters. What she does so well is to illuminate the protagonists of her books from many different perspectives, making the reader understand that all is not as it first might appear. The books are like sliding panels, each displaying a different view of the same world. The technique gives the villagers real human dimensions, and for that reason we care about their fate. I understand that the next book in the series is already underway, and the extent to which I am already eager to further indulge my habit is a testimony to the skill of this terrific writer. Richard Clark
February 1, 2014
I received The Gypsy's Dream as a free download ebook from the author. I had never read any of Ms Alexi's other books and was unsure what to expect. However, I am passionate about anything pertaining to Greece, and have read and enjoyed many other books set in Greece. Therefore, I jumped in with nothing to lose.
I was not disappointed with this book. Unlike many of the previous books set in Greece that I have read, which tend to fall into the travel memoir genre, The Gypsy's Dream is a fast-moving piece of fiction. Ms Alexi's writing style is clear and economic, quickly painting a picture of her characters and situations. The drama in the story also developed quite quickly, and I soon found myself wanting to get back into the story to find out what the characters would do next.
My only (small) regret was that in some ways the plot moved too quickly and I felt that the story was over too soon. The characters and location were rich enough that I felt that a little more time could have been spent getting to know them in general day-to-day scenes not directly related to the plot development. However, that is a very minor criticism and I will definitely be looking for more of Ms Alexi's books to add to my library in the future.
I was not disappointed with this book. Unlike many of the previous books set in Greece that I have read, which tend to fall into the travel memoir genre, The Gypsy's Dream is a fast-moving piece of fiction. Ms Alexi's writing style is clear and economic, quickly painting a picture of her characters and situations. The drama in the story also developed quite quickly, and I soon found myself wanting to get back into the story to find out what the characters would do next.
My only (small) regret was that in some ways the plot moved too quickly and I felt that the story was over too soon. The characters and location were rich enough that I felt that a little more time could have been spent getting to know them in general day-to-day scenes not directly related to the plot development. However, that is a very minor criticism and I will definitely be looking for more of Ms Alexi's books to add to my library in the future.
January 5, 2015
The Greek Village series has fast become one of my favorite series of books to read. The author clearly paints an ever developing picture of this quaint village in Greece. Each book develops and intertwines the characters, locations and village life drama's building on a solid story line for each book. Because of the continued development of each character and their relationships with each other each book is truly a charm to read. I can't wait to pop the next book onto my Kindle and start #5.
February 20, 2019
Oh I do so love these books - and like others have said they just get better and better. This was my favourite so far - so much so that I didn't want it to end ...... luckily there are a few more to look forward to
January 11, 2017
As usual, Ms. Alexi takes us on a journey of life in the Greek Islands along with a well written story. Strong characters, vivid descriptions, and interesting story lines will keep you reading well into the night.
August 20, 2016
Loved this book! It fits so well with the other books in that things that were only hinted at in other books are fleshed out in this book. 'Mysteries' that left me hanging and wondering are solved. I cannot wait to read the next book and learn more of the everyday life of the people of this small village. I lived for 6 months in the village of Atsipoupolo on the island of Crete. I find it quite easy to recognize the village and the lives of its inhabitants in Alexi's books. The characters are finely drawn and fleshed out in each book. There is a deep awareness of Greece and the current problems in the region, ie the pressures of immigrants from the Middle East, the influx of westerners, the gypsies, etc. I so enjoyed my life in Crete and these books take me back, but they also give me a greater understanding of the people and the life. Thank you, dear Sara!
July 11, 2014
Loved It!!!!
Discovering more about Stella was heartwarming & at times pulled at my heartstrings. I loved how the character grew & matured throughout the story. Abby was a great addition to the storyline, & as in the previous stories bringing the story together with previous characters kept me engaged & wanting to know what will happen next. I believe there is another book - I HOPE there is, I am completely captivated with these characters!
Discovering more about Stella was heartwarming & at times pulled at my heartstrings. I loved how the character grew & matured throughout the story. Abby was a great addition to the storyline, & as in the previous stories bringing the story together with previous characters kept me engaged & wanting to know what will happen next. I believe there is another book - I HOPE there is, I am completely captivated with these characters!
September 9, 2016
A slow start, but well worth the investment of time. I am glad I persevered as this turned out to be a thoughtful and enjoyable book. The writing draws you into the local Greek culture beautifully. All of the other books in the series are on my wish list now. And other books from this worthy author.
June 17, 2015
I really liked this book.
This is a story of dreams, of strength, of life. Stella is a kind, hard working woman who has grown apart from her cruel, repulsive husband. Abby, a teenager from England 'accidently' arrives in the village and their lives become enmeshed.
The novel is well written with only a couple of typos. I recommend this book whole-heartedly.
This is a story of dreams, of strength, of life. Stella is a kind, hard working woman who has grown apart from her cruel, repulsive husband. Abby, a teenager from England 'accidently' arrives in the village and their lives become enmeshed.
The novel is well written with only a couple of typos. I recommend this book whole-heartedly.
August 5, 2013
Yet another great read from Sara Alexi that grabs you from start to finish. Her stories of Greek village life suck you in and in each book you learn a little more about the characters. I love the way the characters are intervowen in the four books that I've read so far. Can't wait for book 5.
July 5, 2019
Proud to be a gypsy
Stella was always ashamed of being a gypsy. She was always grateful that her husband gave her the respect from others. She worked hard to make their business successful but it kept getting further and further in into debt when it should not be. Abby ran away from home because she felt her father disapproved of her desire to go to a university. She ends up working for Stella. Together they grow and learn more about what they really want from life.
Stella was always ashamed of being a gypsy. She was always grateful that her husband gave her the respect from others. She worked hard to make their business successful but it kept getting further and further in into debt when it should not be. Abby ran away from home because she felt her father disapproved of her desire to go to a university. She ends up working for Stella. Together they grow and learn more about what they really want from life.
January 27, 2018
This is a wonderful book! It is very much of the moment, relevant to the current me too movement. Womens' friendship, following dreams, confronting bullies, finding joy in unexpected places are the main themes. The action is exciting, the characters is well developed, the setting is charming. Another joyful reading from Sara Alexi.
September 20, 2019
Had me gripped
I was in holiday in Crete and saw this book in a shop i ordered it from Amazon and could not put this book down, great book with good storyline, I can't wait to read others in the series.
I was in holiday in Crete and saw this book in a shop i ordered it from Amazon and could not put this book down, great book with good storyline, I can't wait to read others in the series.
January 8, 2017
Gypsies!
This gripping story held my attention, finishing in 3 days. Poor editing plagued throughout the book, but I recommend it.
This gripping story held my attention, finishing in 3 days. Poor editing plagued throughout the book, but I recommend it.
September 6, 2017
One of the Greek village series Always lovely stories.
July 23, 2019
I love this series. I really feel I know the village and its people and look forward to getting back there soon. Highly recommended.
January 16, 2020
This was a feel good story that actually took me a few chapters to get into. I'm glad I stuck with it and finished because it turned out to be a fun story. I liked all of the characters except one that I think the author intended for no one to like anyway. :)
March 21, 2017
A great tale of a lost soul who finds friends in the village.
March 3, 2016
I have two series of books that I wait with anticipation for the next in the series: Alexander McCall Smith’s No 1 Lady Detective series and this series – The Greek Village Series!
Sara Alexi has taken this little village in Greece and introduces us to people who live there and their complex lives. In this book – we learn about Stella and her tumultuous marriage to Stavros. Stella’s money managed to buy them the ouzeri in the village. Juliet, (who we met in the Illegal Gardener) is teaching her English and thanks to what she’s learnt so far, it helps when Abby, a young girl from England arrives in the village and is given a job working in the restaurant.
My heart broke so many times for Stella during this book, but then, thanks in part to young Abby’s spunk, Stella finds hers and manages to finally become a person in her own right. A beautiful story!!
Treebeard
Sara Alexi has taken this little village in Greece and introduces us to people who live there and their complex lives. In this book – we learn about Stella and her tumultuous marriage to Stavros. Stella’s money managed to buy them the ouzeri in the village. Juliet, (who we met in the Illegal Gardener) is teaching her English and thanks to what she’s learnt so far, it helps when Abby, a young girl from England arrives in the village and is given a job working in the restaurant.
My heart broke so many times for Stella during this book, but then, thanks in part to young Abby’s spunk, Stella finds hers and manages to finally become a person in her own right. A beautiful story!!
Treebeard
April 6, 2016
I have enjoyed each of the four books I've read in this series, so far. They are well written and immediately draw you into the life of a small Greek village. I am getting to know each of the characters and wonder who will be the focus of the next book, as I finish each one. I have a feeling that I may be sad when I reach the last from this series.
This is a story that highlights prejudice and the damage it does to a person's self esteem. Stella didn't expect, or think she deserved the good things that life had to offer and settled for a loveless marriage, out of gratitude, and a life of making do.
I am reading the complete series through a second time, as I enjoyed them so much the first time.
I have now read this again and I got even more from it the second time around.
This is a story that highlights prejudice and the damage it does to a person's self esteem. Stella didn't expect, or think she deserved the good things that life had to offer and settled for a loveless marriage, out of gratitude, and a life of making do.
I am reading the complete series through a second time, as I enjoyed them so much the first time.
I have now read this again and I got even more from it the second time around.
February 18, 2014
I received this book for free through BookBub.
After about three chapters, I really wasn't sure if I was going to finish this book. I took a break and read another book and came back to this one.
There were twists and turns I didn't expect as the story progressed and I looked forward to finishing it to see how the crises were resolved.
I believe the author did a good job of setting the scenes and describing the characters. I was able to create clear images in my mind rather easily as I read.
If I can borrow the remainder of the books in this series from the local library, I will read them.
After about three chapters, I really wasn't sure if I was going to finish this book. I took a break and read another book and came back to this one.
There were twists and turns I didn't expect as the story progressed and I looked forward to finishing it to see how the crises were resolved.
I believe the author did a good job of setting the scenes and describing the characters. I was able to create clear images in my mind rather easily as I read.
If I can borrow the remainder of the books in this series from the local library, I will read them.
August 19, 2013
I liked the characters; very real people with real reactions and worries, but not overblown. It took some time to get into the book, and I can't help but wonder if that would've been different if I'd read the others in this series first. About the time I decided I couldn't keep reading and tried to put the book aside, I got pulled back in, not by the person I originally thought would be the main character, but by the much more interesting, honest character of Stella. This was a good read, and I'll probably go back and read more of the series.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 87 reviews