What do you think?
Rate this book
Min sommer på Korfu
For atten år siden tilbragte Ava en vidunderlig sommer på Korfu fyldt med varme, romantik og ungdommelig kærlighed. Men omstændighederne ville det anderledes, og hun måtte vende tilbage til Brighton, hvor hun blev gift og fik barn.
Nu er hun atter single, og hun og hendes syttenårige datter rejser tilbage til Korfu for at besøge Avas søster, som lever det sorgfri liv, Ava aldrig fik.
Ava må se fortiden i øjnene, da for længst glemte følelser bliver vækket til live. Men under overfladen lurer gamle familiestridigheder og hemmeligheder, og det tegner til at blive en ferie, der vil ændre hendes liv for altid.
Nu er hun atter single, og hun og hendes syttenårige datter rejser tilbage til Korfu for at besøge Avas søster, som lever det sorgfri liv, Ava aldrig fik.
Ava må se fortiden i øjnene, da for længst glemte følelser bliver vækket til live. Men under overfladen lurer gamle familiestridigheder og hemmeligheder, og det tegner til at blive en ferie, der vil ændre hendes liv for altid.
429 pages, Paperback
Published May 15, 2023
58 people are currently reading
522 people want to read
About the author
Isabelle Broom
19 books448 followersIsabelle Broom also writes as Izzy Broom. She is the award-winning author of 13 novels and is published in 14 overseas territories. Having left heat magazine in 2018, where she’d spent over five years as book reviews editor, she began writing full-time alongside continued freelance work. She lives in Suffolk, surrounded by books, family, unruly dogs, and a rooster from the farm next door, which has inexplicably fallen in love with her. Her upcoming novel, The House Of Hidden Letters, is arriving on 12 November in ebook and audio and 26 March in paperback (UK). The book will arrive in the US on March 17.
You can follow Izzy on Instagram/Threads @Isabelle_Broom or find her on Facebook under Isabelle Broom Author.
You can follow Izzy on Instagram/Threads @Isabelle_Broom or find her on Facebook under Isabelle Broom Author.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
June 6, 2022
Discover the locations in The Summer Trip
A novel to transport you to Corfu
I do love an Isabelle Broom book as it’s the locations that really shine from the novels. The stories are always a mix of heartache and heartbreak and this is no different
This time we’re off to Corfu. It’s a funny kind of trip as the mum of the family has tricked the sisters to get together and when Ava returns to the island to see her sister, the sister and her boyfriend are shocked to see her. There’s some strange dynamics here as Nico, the sister’s partner is the guy who Ava fell in love with all those years ago. There’s sister rivalry and old tensions buried deep here and Isabelle squeezes them out like a lemon in the Corfu sun.
I felt for Ava and all she’d been through. That wasn’t even the main thread of the novel however as there is something secret that had been hidden for a while, that comes out and shocks everyone. Sibling trauma, a family in crisis and no one noticing the real black sheep in their midst. No spoliers here but I thought the mystery here was very nicely done and it certainly brought the shadows across that Corfu sky.
It must have been so hard for Ava to return to Greece and see her old boyfriend Nico. The characters were great and I could feel the tension and longing when they weren’t on the page. Isabelle uses the setting to explore a sense of freedom and escape we all have but then shows us how baggage has a habit of following us around unless we literally unpack it. The Summer Trip was a trip that made me cry, worry, laugh and want to hug someone. I wanted to shove someone else of a Corfu cliff but let’s not go there!
Delightfully sunny and deliciously thought- provoking, this is a trip to remember!
July 28, 2022
Eighteen years before, Ava Fox fell in love with a local boy in Corfu. However circumstances forced her return to Brighton where marriage and family life followed. Now single again, Ava and her 17 year old daughter Rosie find themselves unexpectedly returning to Corfu and Ava has to confront her past and emotions all over again. To say it wasn’t the holiday she was expecting is an understatement!
The Summer Trip is one of those stories that combine a gorgeous location with much family drama and angst. There are a myriad of characters – some I took to my heart, others I found frustrating and there was one that I disliked with a passion. Whatever their flaws and complexities, they are all so well drawn and all have their own part to play. In the main, the story focuses around Ava and the relationships with her family and in particular her daughter Rosie. Nearly 18, Rosie is striving for independence, wants to make her own decisions, and is no longer always the smiley compliant daughter that Ava is used to, causing conflict between the two. I did like Ava, she had made Rosie her life however facing the prospect of an empty nest makes her contemplate her own life and hopes for the future. The story is told by a dual timeline of the present day in Ava’s first person voice with some chapters going back nineteen years earlier from her third person perspective where the full story of Ava’a young romance is gradually revealed. This aspect of the story was so tenderly written and kept me guessing as to the reason why Ava’s romance fell apart.
I was completely swept away by the descriptions of the location around Kalami and found myself wanting to spend the evening at the family taverna, eating and drinking or just generally soaking up the atmosphere. I’ve been to Corfu and could easily get a sense of place. With an emotive storyline involving unresolved heartache and long held secrets and desires, there were plenty of surprises revealed along the way, together with a few home truths.
The Summer Trip is a lovely uplifting read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Perfect for a summer read, or at any time really.
The Summer Trip is one of those stories that combine a gorgeous location with much family drama and angst. There are a myriad of characters – some I took to my heart, others I found frustrating and there was one that I disliked with a passion. Whatever their flaws and complexities, they are all so well drawn and all have their own part to play. In the main, the story focuses around Ava and the relationships with her family and in particular her daughter Rosie. Nearly 18, Rosie is striving for independence, wants to make her own decisions, and is no longer always the smiley compliant daughter that Ava is used to, causing conflict between the two. I did like Ava, she had made Rosie her life however facing the prospect of an empty nest makes her contemplate her own life and hopes for the future. The story is told by a dual timeline of the present day in Ava’s first person voice with some chapters going back nineteen years earlier from her third person perspective where the full story of Ava’a young romance is gradually revealed. This aspect of the story was so tenderly written and kept me guessing as to the reason why Ava’s romance fell apart.
I was completely swept away by the descriptions of the location around Kalami and found myself wanting to spend the evening at the family taverna, eating and drinking or just generally soaking up the atmosphere. I’ve been to Corfu and could easily get a sense of place. With an emotive storyline involving unresolved heartache and long held secrets and desires, there were plenty of surprises revealed along the way, together with a few home truths.
The Summer Trip is a lovely uplifting read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Perfect for a summer read, or at any time really.
September 22, 2022
I've had a heavy few weeks at work so not read as much as I'd have liked but gosh when I got chance this book was the perfect escapism. I really enjoyed Ava and Niko's story - a well written and heartfelt tale. I was completely transported to, and memorised by, Corfu. There are a few of Isabelle's books that I haven't read as yet and I'll definitely be adding them to my wishlist.
June 22, 2022
Obvs ; )
July 26, 2022
Not my usual kind of read, I’m normally a die hard crime thriller reader. But I throughly enjoyed my first outing with Isabelle Broome. The Summer Trip is the perfect summer read, nothing to complex, but a heartwarming tale of first love and the complexities of family relationships. I loved the descriptions of Corfu, the scenery, the food, and the Greek people.
June 27, 2022
My heart aches for more, I wish I could have an infinite supply of Isabelle Broom books to keep me happy!
October 26, 2024
Isabelle Broom - Min sommer på Korfu // The Summer Trip (leseeksemplar fra Lisa)
Its been nineteen years since Ava had the most amazing summer at Corfu. Shortly after she came back to Brighton with a broken heart she got pregnant and never returned to the island. Not until she’s convinced by her mother to spend the summer at her estranged little sister’s house while her sister Matti and her husband Niko stays at her house in England. However when Ava and her daughter arrives they’re met with a confounded Matti and Niko who had no plan to travel to England and no idea they were coming. This is the start of a long summer with forbidden feelings, strained relationships and a dangerous stranger.
Wow, I really enjoyed this! I’m a sucker for Greek settings and while reading the book I found myself lost in the vivid descriptions of the island. I now know that Corfu is the greenest island in Greece and has the most olivetrees (4000). I might or might not also have looked at charter trips there… Broom has such rich depictions that I easily get lost in the story.
The novel explores relationships in an excellent way. Ava and her two younger sisters are all estranged, living in different countries with no contact. This summer all of them are gathered at Corfu where hearts were broken years ago. They each have their struggles and now they’re forced to confront them and each other. Why is the youngest sister Lia drinking her days away after a year in Thailand? Why are Mattie and Niko struggling with conceiving? Ava has always had a close relationship with Rosie but this summer she feels more distant than ever. Infatuated with her aunt’s “friend” Sam, she starts acting up. Ava tries hard to keep control, but it’s not easy when her own feelings towards her brother in law is chaotic and her daughter is slipping away into the grasp of a dangerous man she doens’t know.
The family problems felt natural. A mother who expects to much of her three daughters who then fights for her attention. Every relationship in this book is strained, but really realistic. Ava wants to believe the best about Rosie, but at the same time she can’t accept that she’s growing up. The book delves deep into self-exploration and acceptance.
Despite the deep topics, the novel always keeps a light tone and there’s a lot of subtle humor. The end was fantastic. I raced through the last eighty or so pages becuase the pace was amped up and the tension was sky high. It almost went from a feelgood family drama to a action book. Incredibly exciting!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Its been nineteen years since Ava had the most amazing summer at Corfu. Shortly after she came back to Brighton with a broken heart she got pregnant and never returned to the island. Not until she’s convinced by her mother to spend the summer at her estranged little sister’s house while her sister Matti and her husband Niko stays at her house in England. However when Ava and her daughter arrives they’re met with a confounded Matti and Niko who had no plan to travel to England and no idea they were coming. This is the start of a long summer with forbidden feelings, strained relationships and a dangerous stranger.
Wow, I really enjoyed this! I’m a sucker for Greek settings and while reading the book I found myself lost in the vivid descriptions of the island. I now know that Corfu is the greenest island in Greece and has the most olivetrees (4000). I might or might not also have looked at charter trips there… Broom has such rich depictions that I easily get lost in the story.
The novel explores relationships in an excellent way. Ava and her two younger sisters are all estranged, living in different countries with no contact. This summer all of them are gathered at Corfu where hearts were broken years ago. They each have their struggles and now they’re forced to confront them and each other. Why is the youngest sister Lia drinking her days away after a year in Thailand? Why are Mattie and Niko struggling with conceiving? Ava has always had a close relationship with Rosie but this summer she feels more distant than ever. Infatuated with her aunt’s “friend” Sam, she starts acting up. Ava tries hard to keep control, but it’s not easy when her own feelings towards her brother in law is chaotic and her daughter is slipping away into the grasp of a dangerous man she doens’t know.
The family problems felt natural. A mother who expects to much of her three daughters who then fights for her attention. Every relationship in this book is strained, but really realistic. Ava wants to believe the best about Rosie, but at the same time she can’t accept that she’s growing up. The book delves deep into self-exploration and acceptance.
Despite the deep topics, the novel always keeps a light tone and there’s a lot of subtle humor. The end was fantastic. I raced through the last eighty or so pages becuase the pace was amped up and the tension was sky high. It almost went from a feelgood family drama to a action book. Incredibly exciting!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
January 8, 2023
Loved this book.
August 31, 2022
Eighteeen years ago Ava spent a summer in Corfu. It was a holiday that changed her life and she has never forgotten the events of those few months, or the person that she left behind.
Ava is now a single mum, living in Brighton with her seventeen-year-old daughter Rosie. As young Rosie prepares to leave home for university, Ava feels so far away from that happy, carefree girl she once was.
Ava’s sister Mattie is living Ava’s dream though. Married to a Greek man, living in Corfu, helping to run the family taverna. When their parents arrange a much overdue visit for Ava and Rosie, back to Corfu, Ava knows that she has to finally face up to her past, and try to mend her broken heart.
Ava’s entire family descend upon Mattie’s home, her younger hippy, free thinking sister Ophelia arrives from Thailand, along with a man called Ben who appears to be her partner, but nobody is quite sure what she sees in him. Except for young Rosie, who is flattered by the attention and is enjoying the freedom of Corfu.
It doesn’t take long for old sparks to be renewed and Isabelle Broom has written a story that crackles with the heat of unresolved partings. The sultry setting is joyful, with bluest of sea, the wealth of flowers, the tavernas, the olive groves and the feel-good factor that a holiday in the sun always brings.
A story of women who’ve felt let down by life and who all have long buried secrets that affect them. Beautifully written, and gloriously escapist, this is the perfect story of romance, self-discovery and the power of family
Ava is now a single mum, living in Brighton with her seventeen-year-old daughter Rosie. As young Rosie prepares to leave home for university, Ava feels so far away from that happy, carefree girl she once was.
Ava’s sister Mattie is living Ava’s dream though. Married to a Greek man, living in Corfu, helping to run the family taverna. When their parents arrange a much overdue visit for Ava and Rosie, back to Corfu, Ava knows that she has to finally face up to her past, and try to mend her broken heart.
Ava’s entire family descend upon Mattie’s home, her younger hippy, free thinking sister Ophelia arrives from Thailand, along with a man called Ben who appears to be her partner, but nobody is quite sure what she sees in him. Except for young Rosie, who is flattered by the attention and is enjoying the freedom of Corfu.
It doesn’t take long for old sparks to be renewed and Isabelle Broom has written a story that crackles with the heat of unresolved partings. The sultry setting is joyful, with bluest of sea, the wealth of flowers, the tavernas, the olive groves and the feel-good factor that a holiday in the sun always brings.
A story of women who’ve felt let down by life and who all have long buried secrets that affect them. Beautifully written, and gloriously escapist, this is the perfect story of romance, self-discovery and the power of family
June 30, 2022
Ah, estranged families – don’t they just make the most fascinating group of people to read about? Ava and her two sisters really don’t see much of each other, for various reasons, and are scattered across the globe, but when they find themselves all together in Corfu, well sparks are bound to fly.
This was such a gorgeous read. I really took to the main character Ava and enjoyed reading about her close relationship with her daughter Rosie. As is often the case with teenage daughters, this close relationship was threatened by a man Ava considered most unsuitable for her daughter. I was so intrigued to find out just why Ava had never been back to Corfu when she had clearly left her heart there. And as you will find out, there is one very good reason why this holiday is so awkward for her. With some chapters set 19 years earlier, we get to find out about Ava’s great love and why it all fell apart. I was so hoping that Ava would find happiness with her lost love but it really seemed quite impossible under the circumstances.
Isabelle Broom writes so well about relationships of all sorts and she unpicked the complicated issues between the family members brilliantly. There were definitely a lot of uncomfortable situations faced during this trip, some of which almost made me squirm! However, there was a lot of straight talking and more importantly listening which helped this family come to understand each other better.
The Summer Trip is exactly the kind of book I enjoy. Family, secrets and romance in a gorgeous location all combined so well to make this a five star read for me. Escapist reading at its best and one not to be missed this summer.
This was such a gorgeous read. I really took to the main character Ava and enjoyed reading about her close relationship with her daughter Rosie. As is often the case with teenage daughters, this close relationship was threatened by a man Ava considered most unsuitable for her daughter. I was so intrigued to find out just why Ava had never been back to Corfu when she had clearly left her heart there. And as you will find out, there is one very good reason why this holiday is so awkward for her. With some chapters set 19 years earlier, we get to find out about Ava’s great love and why it all fell apart. I was so hoping that Ava would find happiness with her lost love but it really seemed quite impossible under the circumstances.
Isabelle Broom writes so well about relationships of all sorts and she unpicked the complicated issues between the family members brilliantly. There were definitely a lot of uncomfortable situations faced during this trip, some of which almost made me squirm! However, there was a lot of straight talking and more importantly listening which helped this family come to understand each other better.
The Summer Trip is exactly the kind of book I enjoy. Family, secrets and romance in a gorgeous location all combined so well to make this a five star read for me. Escapist reading at its best and one not to be missed this summer.
September 10, 2022
In my eyes you can't go wrong with an Isabelle Broom book! I always save them for my holiday as they sweep you away to another country.
Ava has found herself back in Greece 18 years after she left after a world-wind romance which she has never forgotten. Of course she will meet him whilst there ! This is pure escapism and perfect for a holiday read
Ava has found herself back in Greece 18 years after she left after a world-wind romance which she has never forgotten. Of course she will meet him whilst there ! This is pure escapism and perfect for a holiday read
June 28, 2022
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
3.5 hours it took me to read this book. Three point five hours to read a 416 page novel. For exceedingly fast readers (aka the book version of Mr Kipling), that is nothing, however in general, that is considered to be uber fast. In all honesty, I just couldn't put the book down, I didn't want to stop reading, and I was so invested in the newly fangled Corfu version of Eastenders, I just HAD to let my eyes roam the pages.
Oh, and yes, I bloomin' loved 'The Summer Trip' - sorry, I maybe should have started the review off with that instead!
Ava and Corfu go hand in hand like cheese and a tomato, salt and pepper, cheese and onion.....you catch my drift. In other words, they're made for each other. Unfortunately for Ava though, her sister has the life she wanted, and she has the life that, er, she chose to have. Now I'm not being mean here but surely if you wanted that free spirited life in Corfu, then you would have done everything in your power to get it. Right? Wrong - even I know that (despite my previous facetious comment). It wasn't that easy and life isn't as straight forward as we sometimes wish it was. Ava had to stay in Blighty because of her daughter. She thought she was doing right by her, putting her on a good path for her daughters own future. That being said, as good as Ava's intentions were, they seemed to come back and bite her on the behind. Parenting eh.
'The Summer Trip' was a light-hearted read at times, yet it also covered multiple deep topics along the way, mainly disruptive family dynamics, black sheep of the family, forgotten love, death, and even theft. Looking at the cover of the book you probably wouldn't think that what lie underneath would cause controversy for its characters now, would you? I certainly didn't expect it at all, but I received it well....very well in fact.
I really enjoyed the varied storyline, multiple personalities, as well as the beautiful descriptions of the scenery. Because of the latter, I was able to envision Corfu in my minds eye, hear the waves, smell the sea. I probably wouldn't have been able to do that if the author wasn't so good at describing each and everything around her characters.
'The Summer Trip' reminded me of getting a picture developed. It started off with an idea, a glimmer of what could potentially come. Then, in time, the story began to develop, focusing on the minor details, the major details, as well as the little nuggets of things in the background which may have been forgotten. By the end of the story, the 'picture' made sense, loose ends were tied up, and you were left with a memory that would last a lifetime, exactly like 'The Summer Trip'. I would read it again in a heartbeat!
Make this your own summer trip of the year, you won't regret it.
3.5 hours it took me to read this book. Three point five hours to read a 416 page novel. For exceedingly fast readers (aka the book version of Mr Kipling), that is nothing, however in general, that is considered to be uber fast. In all honesty, I just couldn't put the book down, I didn't want to stop reading, and I was so invested in the newly fangled Corfu version of Eastenders, I just HAD to let my eyes roam the pages.
Oh, and yes, I bloomin' loved 'The Summer Trip' - sorry, I maybe should have started the review off with that instead!
Ava and Corfu go hand in hand like cheese and a tomato, salt and pepper, cheese and onion.....you catch my drift. In other words, they're made for each other. Unfortunately for Ava though, her sister has the life she wanted, and she has the life that, er, she chose to have. Now I'm not being mean here but surely if you wanted that free spirited life in Corfu, then you would have done everything in your power to get it. Right? Wrong - even I know that (despite my previous facetious comment). It wasn't that easy and life isn't as straight forward as we sometimes wish it was. Ava had to stay in Blighty because of her daughter. She thought she was doing right by her, putting her on a good path for her daughters own future. That being said, as good as Ava's intentions were, they seemed to come back and bite her on the behind. Parenting eh.
'The Summer Trip' was a light-hearted read at times, yet it also covered multiple deep topics along the way, mainly disruptive family dynamics, black sheep of the family, forgotten love, death, and even theft. Looking at the cover of the book you probably wouldn't think that what lie underneath would cause controversy for its characters now, would you? I certainly didn't expect it at all, but I received it well....very well in fact.
I really enjoyed the varied storyline, multiple personalities, as well as the beautiful descriptions of the scenery. Because of the latter, I was able to envision Corfu in my minds eye, hear the waves, smell the sea. I probably wouldn't have been able to do that if the author wasn't so good at describing each and everything around her characters.
'The Summer Trip' reminded me of getting a picture developed. It started off with an idea, a glimmer of what could potentially come. Then, in time, the story began to develop, focusing on the minor details, the major details, as well as the little nuggets of things in the background which may have been forgotten. By the end of the story, the 'picture' made sense, loose ends were tied up, and you were left with a memory that would last a lifetime, exactly like 'The Summer Trip'. I would read it again in a heartbeat!
Make this your own summer trip of the year, you won't regret it.
October 17, 2022
Loved this book - read in the Greek sunshine beside the pool!
July 11, 2022
Parents stop interfering with your life once you’re an adult, right? WRONG. As if! Ava’s mum sneakily sets in motion events to sort out her daughters’ relationships with each other – with unexpected consequences that turns lives upside down …
37 year old Ava is living in Brighton with her 17 year old daughter Rosie and when the opportunity arises, and with a big push from Rosie, they set off to Corfu. When they get to Mattie’s villa, it’s not what Ava thought it was going to be and the atmosphere is tense. She unintentionally overhears a conversation that puts her in an awkward position. Then their sister Lia turns up with her friend Sam. And with Sam fuelling flames, the dynamics and focus change. When their mum and dad turn up, the hurt and pain gear up another notch until it’s all ready to explode.
Ava’s experiences in Corfu 19 years ago give us greater understanding of the conflict today. I was reeled in emotionally and knew what I wanted to happen!
This story has the best anti-hero I’ve read in a long time. From the beginning, I had really strong feelings of dislike and knew what he was up to. Only Ava has her suspicions though so it takes a while to build up to the climax (a good thing!).
One character surprised me. From the way we see her express her disdain, I didn’t think for one moment that she could be supportive. Hidden depths 🙂
Isabelle Broome writes the best settings. I felt so inspired, I designed a crochet blanket with a Greek theme.
I was savouring every word, soaking it all up, until we race to the resolution. OMG, it really was nerve wracking. I couldn’t read the words fast enough (and was even tempted to scan ahead, something I very rarely do).
The Summer Trip was such an emotional read. I loved how complicated it all was. Relationships need untangling at times don’t they and family ones can be the hardest of all. Truths need to be heard, so lives move forward.
Another outstanding read from Isabelle Broome.
https://www.jerasjamboree.co.uk/revie...
37 year old Ava is living in Brighton with her 17 year old daughter Rosie and when the opportunity arises, and with a big push from Rosie, they set off to Corfu. When they get to Mattie’s villa, it’s not what Ava thought it was going to be and the atmosphere is tense. She unintentionally overhears a conversation that puts her in an awkward position. Then their sister Lia turns up with her friend Sam. And with Sam fuelling flames, the dynamics and focus change. When their mum and dad turn up, the hurt and pain gear up another notch until it’s all ready to explode.
Ava’s experiences in Corfu 19 years ago give us greater understanding of the conflict today. I was reeled in emotionally and knew what I wanted to happen!
This story has the best anti-hero I’ve read in a long time. From the beginning, I had really strong feelings of dislike and knew what he was up to. Only Ava has her suspicions though so it takes a while to build up to the climax (a good thing!).
One character surprised me. From the way we see her express her disdain, I didn’t think for one moment that she could be supportive. Hidden depths 🙂
Isabelle Broome writes the best settings. I felt so inspired, I designed a crochet blanket with a Greek theme.
I was savouring every word, soaking it all up, until we race to the resolution. OMG, it really was nerve wracking. I couldn’t read the words fast enough (and was even tempted to scan ahead, something I very rarely do).
The Summer Trip was such an emotional read. I loved how complicated it all was. Relationships need untangling at times don’t they and family ones can be the hardest of all. Truths need to be heard, so lives move forward.
Another outstanding read from Isabelle Broome.
https://www.jerasjamboree.co.uk/revie...
June 23, 2022
Eighteeen years ago Ava spent a summer in Corfu. It was a holiday that changed her life and she has never forgotten the events of those few months, or the person that she left behind.
Ava is now a single mum, living in Brighton with her seventeen-year-old daughter Rosie. As young Rosie prepares to leave home for university, Ava feels so far away from that happy, carefree girl she once was.
Ava’s sister Mattie is living Ava’s dream though. Married to a Greek man, living in Corfu, helping to run the family taverna. When their parents arrange a much overdue visit for Ava and Rosie, back to Corfu, Ava knows that she has to finally face up to her past, and try to mend her broken heart.
Ava’s entire family descend upon Mattie’s home, her younger hippy, free thinking sister Ophelia arrives from Thailand, along with a man called Ben who appears to be her partner, but nobody is quite sure what she sees in him. Except for young Rosie, who is flattered by the attention and is enjoying the freedom of Corfu.
It doesn’t take long for old sparks to be renewed and Isabelle Broom has written a story that crackles with the heat of unresolved partings. The sultry setting is joyful, with bluest of sea, the wealth of flowers, the tavernas, the olive groves and the feel-good factor that a holiday in the sun always brings.
A story of women who’ve felt let down by life and who all have long buried secrets that affect them. Beautifully written, and gloriously escapist, this is the perfect story of romance, self-discovery and the power of family
Ava is now a single mum, living in Brighton with her seventeen-year-old daughter Rosie. As young Rosie prepares to leave home for university, Ava feels so far away from that happy, carefree girl she once was.
Ava’s sister Mattie is living Ava’s dream though. Married to a Greek man, living in Corfu, helping to run the family taverna. When their parents arrange a much overdue visit for Ava and Rosie, back to Corfu, Ava knows that she has to finally face up to her past, and try to mend her broken heart.
Ava’s entire family descend upon Mattie’s home, her younger hippy, free thinking sister Ophelia arrives from Thailand, along with a man called Ben who appears to be her partner, but nobody is quite sure what she sees in him. Except for young Rosie, who is flattered by the attention and is enjoying the freedom of Corfu.
It doesn’t take long for old sparks to be renewed and Isabelle Broom has written a story that crackles with the heat of unresolved partings. The sultry setting is joyful, with bluest of sea, the wealth of flowers, the tavernas, the olive groves and the feel-good factor that a holiday in the sun always brings.
A story of women who’ve felt let down by life and who all have long buried secrets that affect them. Beautifully written, and gloriously escapist, this is the perfect story of romance, self-discovery and the power of family
June 19, 2022
This is a gorgeous summer read, set on the island of Corfu. You really feel as if you are on the island with Ava, whose teenage daughter is on the cusp of fledging the nest. Much as you understand all her reservations about the future, you soon realise that ava has built up a shield around her feelings and shut out her siblings and to some extent, her parents. Family relationships prove to be complicated!
I enjoyed how the different generations were shown against their own web of relationships. Grandparents, mother/ daughter, siblings, aunt/niece - you get the full tapestry of family dynamics. Secrets which have been long buries surface, Strangers appear in the midst of the family and upset the dynamics. This is a book you can get your teeth into. What a lovely holiday read it is!
In short: sun, sea, siblings
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
I enjoyed how the different generations were shown against their own web of relationships. Grandparents, mother/ daughter, siblings, aunt/niece - you get the full tapestry of family dynamics. Secrets which have been long buries surface, Strangers appear in the midst of the family and upset the dynamics. This is a book you can get your teeth into. What a lovely holiday read it is!
In short: sun, sea, siblings
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
June 26, 2022
Thanks to netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Single mum Ava lives in Brighton, her daughter Rosie is due to leave home to start university in September. Ava’s mom hatches a plan telling Ava that her sister who lives in Corfu wants to house swap for the summer. Little does Ava know that she has been set up until she arrives at her sister Mattie’s house in Corfu. It starts to bring back memories for Ava, ones she has tried to forget. Then her other sister Ophelia arrives to visit from Thailand. Can they all got on and enjoy their summer together or will memories come to the surface and break them apart.
A good book about families, secrets and love.
Single mum Ava lives in Brighton, her daughter Rosie is due to leave home to start university in September. Ava’s mom hatches a plan telling Ava that her sister who lives in Corfu wants to house swap for the summer. Little does Ava know that she has been set up until she arrives at her sister Mattie’s house in Corfu. It starts to bring back memories for Ava, ones she has tried to forget. Then her other sister Ophelia arrives to visit from Thailand. Can they all got on and enjoy their summer together or will memories come to the surface and break them apart.
A good book about families, secrets and love.
June 24, 2022
Brilliant - love all of Isabelle’s books! X
July 7, 2022
I’m clearly missing my Mediterranean holidays as this is the second book I’ve read in recent weeks set on the beautiful Greek island of Corfu. You can almost feel the sunscreen on your skin and the sand between your toes as Broom paints a picture of an idyllic island village bathed in sunshine.
Ava is at a crossroads in her life. Divorced and with her teenage daughter about to leave home and go to university she has to come to terms with the idea that things are changing. When her mother organises a house swap between her and her younger sister Mattie it seems like a perfect chance to spend some quality time with daughter Rosie.
The only problem is that it means going back to Corfu, the place where she had her heart broken when she was just eighteen. Naturally all is not as it seems and the estranged sisters find themselves having to deal with the elephant in the room. Can they sort out their issues and those of their younger sister Ophelia before someone’s life is put at risk?
Isabelle Broom is one of my favourite choices for interesting summer holiday books. She always manages to bring the right amount of family drama, romance and intrigue that keep you reading right to the very last page. That said I did manage to work out all of the plot twists in advance on this book but it didn’t spoil the experience at all. Just left me feeling very smug and hankering for a lovely Greek salad!
Supplied by Net Galley and Hodder & Stoughton in exchange for an honest review.
UK Publication Date: Jun 23 2022. 377 pages.
Ava is at a crossroads in her life. Divorced and with her teenage daughter about to leave home and go to university she has to come to terms with the idea that things are changing. When her mother organises a house swap between her and her younger sister Mattie it seems like a perfect chance to spend some quality time with daughter Rosie.
The only problem is that it means going back to Corfu, the place where she had her heart broken when she was just eighteen. Naturally all is not as it seems and the estranged sisters find themselves having to deal with the elephant in the room. Can they sort out their issues and those of their younger sister Ophelia before someone’s life is put at risk?
Isabelle Broom is one of my favourite choices for interesting summer holiday books. She always manages to bring the right amount of family drama, romance and intrigue that keep you reading right to the very last page. That said I did manage to work out all of the plot twists in advance on this book but it didn’t spoil the experience at all. Just left me feeling very smug and hankering for a lovely Greek salad!
Supplied by Net Galley and Hodder & Stoughton in exchange for an honest review.
UK Publication Date: Jun 23 2022. 377 pages.
September 17, 2022
"The Summer Trip" is another great family drama and romance from Isabelle Broom. This time we are taken to Corfu, where the Fox family had enjoyed a memorable summer holiday some 19 years previously, and where one of the 3 daughters now lives. The story of this earlier trip gradually unfolds in snippets of memories from narrator and oldest daughter Ava. Having been rather estranged due to geography and circumstances, the family gradually establish a new rapport as they get to know each other again.
The location, as with other books by Isabelle Broom, also has a starring role. The family is staying in Kalami where the snow white villa of "My Family and Other Animals" fame is now a fancy restaurant.
A great holiday read. Thanks to Net Galley and the publishers for the opportunity to review this book.
The location, as with other books by Isabelle Broom, also has a starring role. The family is staying in Kalami where the snow white villa of "My Family and Other Animals" fame is now a fancy restaurant.
A great holiday read. Thanks to Net Galley and the publishers for the opportunity to review this book.
August 15, 2022
The Summer Trip is another captivating 5🌟read from Isabelle Broom. I love how she can transport me to beautiful countries, this time Corfu, and take me on an adventure with her characters. The three sisters in this story are wonderful - all so different but each brought together with love and hope. Ava has been holding onto a secret for so long - can she open up to her sisters and daughter so as to move forward with her life? This is such a romantic and emotional story and one to savour.
July 31, 2023
Love the setting of corfu and the two timelines that blend perfectly. For me it was made easier by the different type setting which gave me an extra bonus. Loved our leading ladies and the way the family isn’t stereotypical but grows and changes. The sister element is always a bonus for me. We do handle some triggers but they are dealt with well..
July 15, 2023
Perfect beach read
August 22, 2023
Dit boek speelt zich af op Corfu. Instant vakantiegevoel dus. Herkenbaar verhaal als je ouder bent van tieners. Door de switch tussen heden en verleden kom je langzaamaan het volledige verhaal te weten. Met momenten hilarische stukken afwisselend met de harde realiteit. Heel erg korte hoofdstukken die zorgen dat het vlot leest. Perfecte zomer roman. Een dikke 4⭐️
April 13, 2023
This book is an absolutely perfect summer read - the beautiful descriptions of Corfu really did make me feel like I was there!
July 9, 2022
Brilliant
I literally couldn’t put this book down. Isabelle Broome is a great author. I will be reading more of her books.
I literally couldn’t put this book down. Isabelle Broome is a great author. I will be reading more of her books.
July 17, 2022
Another great read from Isabelle Broom. The story immerses you so well that I felt like I was actually in Corfu and living amongst the characters. Travel without leaving home!
June 30, 2022
Gorgeous summer read.
17 years ago, as an 18 year old teen, Ava visits Corfu with her parents and sister Mattie and meets and falls in love with handsome Greek boy Nico. When tragedy strikes, Nico has to help his family run the restaurant and the couple break up leaving Ava broken hearted.
Roll on to present day Ava is a single mum living in Brighton and Mattie is now married to Ava’s teenage sweetheart. Ava returns to Corfu with her daughter for the summer and has to cope with living under the same roof as Nico and Mattie, who is not aware of her sister’s holiday romance with her husband all those years ago.
A beautiful story to read whilst on your holidays.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my review.
17 years ago, as an 18 year old teen, Ava visits Corfu with her parents and sister Mattie and meets and falls in love with handsome Greek boy Nico. When tragedy strikes, Nico has to help his family run the restaurant and the couple break up leaving Ava broken hearted.
Roll on to present day Ava is a single mum living in Brighton and Mattie is now married to Ava’s teenage sweetheart. Ava returns to Corfu with her daughter for the summer and has to cope with living under the same roof as Nico and Mattie, who is not aware of her sister’s holiday romance with her husband all those years ago.
A beautiful story to read whilst on your holidays.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for my review.
October 23, 2022
Ava returns to Corfu for the first time in 18 years with her 17 year old daughter Rosie. The Greek boy Ava had her summer fling with is now married to her sister. Ava is estranged from both of her sisters and has a rocky relationship with her parents. They all come together at the villa and secrets and home truths are revealed. A dramatic last couple of chapters bringing everything together in a happy ending
August 25, 2022
Another gem from Isabelle Broom. We are carried away on a Corfu cloud with three sisters who have a lot of family history to deal with as their mother decides they've all been apart for too long. The magic of Greece is threaded through this novel with a beauty that equals the pull of the islands. Isabelle Broom is a master storyteller and she holds these three girls in her grasp until their stories are stripped back to where they face up to reality. A love story, a story of regrets, missed opportunities, mistakes and redemption. And couldn't you just slap Sam!
Loved this!
Loved this!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews