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Come Away With Me #2
Wish You Were Here
The brand-new gorgeous getaway read from Million Copy #1 bestseller Alex Brown.
Your perfect escape awaits! Three friends. Two secrets. And a holiday to remember forever.
Deedee Merriman loves her job running a travel agency but with turnover down and a big birthday fast approaching she’s thinking about the next chapter of her life and the changes she wants to make.
Determined to stay vibrant and keep a youthful outlook on life she invites her friends, Gina and Rosie to celebrate with her in New York, one of her favourite places and where she feels closest to her late husband, Joe.
On arrival, there’s a surprise, secret gift in store for Deedee of a small, ramshackle beach house in the beautiful Hamptons where Joe spent his childhood. But the house isn’t the only secret and discovering the truth will change everything….
Wish You Were Here is an emotional, romantic story about female friendship and finding love after loss in the city that never sleeps and the sand dunes with stunning sunsets of the Hamptons.
Your perfect escape awaits! Three friends. Two secrets. And a holiday to remember forever.
Deedee Merriman loves her job running a travel agency but with turnover down and a big birthday fast approaching she’s thinking about the next chapter of her life and the changes she wants to make.
Determined to stay vibrant and keep a youthful outlook on life she invites her friends, Gina and Rosie to celebrate with her in New York, one of her favourite places and where she feels closest to her late husband, Joe.
On arrival, there’s a surprise, secret gift in store for Deedee of a small, ramshackle beach house in the beautiful Hamptons where Joe spent his childhood. But the house isn’t the only secret and discovering the truth will change everything….
Wish You Were Here is an emotional, romantic story about female friendship and finding love after loss in the city that never sleeps and the sand dunes with stunning sunsets of the Hamptons.
216 pages, Paperback
Published April 10, 2025
63 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
April 24, 2025
Wish You Were Here resonated with me on so many levels, I didn't expect it because our heroine is a lot older than me (sorry Deedee, I'm just jealous of your sparkling life) but we still have a lot in common.
We both are travel agents and a travel agency's owners, we share the same fears for our jobs, besides, we have our big birthdays coming. I'm glad for every year that I spend being healthy and alive, but still, with the big four zero approaching I started thinking about the past and the future.
Deedee used to live her life to the fullest, but since the death of her husband she became more cautious, thoughtful and less carefree. Still, she plans to celebrate her seventy birthday in New York with her old and new friends, trying to not miss her Joe too much and to ruin the experience to everyone.
"We don't move on, we move forward!"
I absolutely adored Deedee as well as her diverse group of friends.
She felt understandably lost, but she didn't give up and, putting one foot in front of the other, she still keep going toward the future. I'm glad that her friends were there to help with her grief, reminding her how strong and lively she is.
I loved that this story was well written, relatable, and with unforgettable characters.
It's the first time I've read an Alex Brown work, but it won't be the last.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for kindly giving me an advanced copy of this book to read.
April 9, 2025
DeeDee has been stuck in a sort of a rut for the last four years. She deeply misses her husband Joe and her travel business is on its last legs.
I loved the New York City setting and all the references to 80s television shows, movies, and music.
Rosie and Gia offer her friend support and I was cheering for Yiannis to make his move.
I also hoped DeeDee would be open to making some major changes of her own.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the early read.
I loved the New York City setting and all the references to 80s television shows, movies, and music.
Rosie and Gia offer her friend support and I was cheering for Yiannis to make his move.
I also hoped DeeDee would be open to making some major changes of her own.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the early read.
April 8, 2025
I enjoyed the unfolding plot and the friendships that Deedee has. I have to say that the second half was a lot more fast paced and interesting than the first, however it did serve to show just how in love she was with Joe and how her life with him was exactly what she wanted.
The book showed the true value of friendship, a life long friendship which Deedee shows is just as important as blood family. Her friends mean the world to her, and I loved how they supported her in getting over the celebrations of her 70th birthday and the news she receives about Joe.
A nice feel good read.
The book showed the true value of friendship, a life long friendship which Deedee shows is just as important as blood family. Her friends mean the world to her, and I loved how they supported her in getting over the celebrations of her 70th birthday and the news she receives about Joe.
A nice feel good read.
April 10, 2025
4.5 stars
This is another beautiful, emotional story from Alex Brown. Full of love, hope and friendship, as always she has written warm and supportive characters.
Deedee has struggled since losing Joe and this trip to New York is just what she needs, and with Gina and Rosie providing the love and support you can see Deedee slowly opening up to her friends and being honest with herself. I loved the idea of their WhatsApp group ‘Come Away With Me’
The beach house in the Hamptons sounded idyllic and I loved how Deedee was able to come to terms with her loss with the help of her friends, both old and new.
This is another beautiful, emotional story from Alex Brown. Full of love, hope and friendship, as always she has written warm and supportive characters.
Deedee has struggled since losing Joe and this trip to New York is just what she needs, and with Gina and Rosie providing the love and support you can see Deedee slowly opening up to her friends and being honest with herself. I loved the idea of their WhatsApp group ‘Come Away With Me’
The beach house in the Hamptons sounded idyllic and I loved how Deedee was able to come to terms with her loss with the help of her friends, both old and new.
July 25, 2025
Wow - that was emotional, thought provoking and uplifting! Getting older and losing loved ones is hard no matter what age but the love of friends and family helping through difficult times is what everyone needs. Tears were shed, laughter was had, if you need a book that has it all - this is it!
March 22, 2025
Deedee is a soon to be 70 years old woman and the book basically revolves around the week of her big birthday celebration in New York. She finds herself a bit at loss as her business (a travel agency in London) is not doing great and she's facing this big milestone of a birthday without her beloved husband by her side. It's been 4 years since his passing but as everyone who ever faced grief knows, missing someone really never goes away and loneliness can hit at any time.
Deedee decides to celebrate her birthday with her best friends Rosie and Gina in NY, a city that meant so much for her and her late husband, little did she know, this trip would open a new chapter in her life.
I found some elements of this book a tad confusing, at the beginning the friendship between Deedee, Rosie and Gina, blossomed during a summer holiday, makes you think you're reading about Sophie and her friends from Mamma Mia! 50 years later, but that is not the case... they met only a year earlier and there's something that I found hard to believe at times, I'm all about friendship and the power of connection especially between women, but maybe because we get to know so little about them and their bond, this kind of a sudden connection and the length they go to for someone they met not so long ago, somehow didn't sit well with me.
Many parts of the book felt like a missed opportunity to be explored more, there's a lot going on, but even if the book is rather slow paced, not much is explored in depth, except for Deedee’s love for her husband and the sexual drive that still persists at her age (admirable).
It is very clear the author tried her best to put herself in a 70yo woman but the final result is not believable, at least from my point of view. Deedee is nothing like any 70years old women in my life or that I ever knew, doesn't matter how lively they are, and I feel like the reader can clearly tell the whole thing is written by someone that is not 70 (this woman doesn't know the meaning of 'situationship' - as she shouldn't - but then she can recognize Taylor Swift or Sabrina Carpenter's songs playing at the radio).
The parts the reader empathizes more with the MC are definitely when her husband is involved, he was one of my favourite character although we only get a glimpse of him, the grief was very real and very believable, but I struggled with a lot of the rest. The element of surprise, the 2 secrets, were really predictable and unfortunately didn't surprise me much.
Overall a lighthearted read about second chances and finding a purpose in life and a new beginning even at 70, something we should all remember. I loved the setting in NY and the Hamptons, the vibe of the Big Apple was very much there and it made me wanna go back again.
I received an ARC from Boldwood Books through NetGalley.
Deedee decides to celebrate her birthday with her best friends Rosie and Gina in NY, a city that meant so much for her and her late husband, little did she know, this trip would open a new chapter in her life.
I found some elements of this book a tad confusing, at the beginning the friendship between Deedee, Rosie and Gina, blossomed during a summer holiday, makes you think you're reading about Sophie and her friends from Mamma Mia! 50 years later, but that is not the case... they met only a year earlier and there's something that I found hard to believe at times, I'm all about friendship and the power of connection especially between women, but maybe because we get to know so little about them and their bond, this kind of a sudden connection and the length they go to for someone they met not so long ago, somehow didn't sit well with me.
Many parts of the book felt like a missed opportunity to be explored more, there's a lot going on, but even if the book is rather slow paced, not much is explored in depth, except for Deedee’s love for her husband and the sexual drive that still persists at her age (admirable).
It is very clear the author tried her best to put herself in a 70yo woman but the final result is not believable, at least from my point of view. Deedee is nothing like any 70years old women in my life or that I ever knew, doesn't matter how lively they are, and I feel like the reader can clearly tell the whole thing is written by someone that is not 70 (this woman doesn't know the meaning of 'situationship' - as she shouldn't - but then she can recognize Taylor Swift or Sabrina Carpenter's songs playing at the radio).
The parts the reader empathizes more with the MC are definitely when her husband is involved, he was one of my favourite character although we only get a glimpse of him, the grief was very real and very believable, but I struggled with a lot of the rest. The element of surprise, the 2 secrets, were really predictable and unfortunately didn't surprise me much.
Overall a lighthearted read about second chances and finding a purpose in life and a new beginning even at 70, something we should all remember. I loved the setting in NY and the Hamptons, the vibe of the Big Apple was very much there and it made me wanna go back again.
I received an ARC from Boldwood Books through NetGalley.
March 26, 2025
I received an eARC of this book from NetGalley and the publisher, for which I thank them.
“Wish You Were Here” is by Alex Brown. This book follows DeeDee, who is turning 70. DeeDee’s husband died a number of years ago and as she approaches 70, DeeDee is not only missing him but also feeling lonely. She decides to celebrate turning 70 with her two friends (Rosie and Gina) in NYC, where they will also meet up with her NYC-based friends. This book covers grief, grieving, personal discovery, new directions, and how friends can become the family you’ve always wanted. I don’t think the cover of this book does the insides justice - as the women on the front look to be in their late 30s, maybe early 40s, not in their 50s and 70. And I think that was another issue I had with the book - while DeeDee is young at heart, how realistic is it for 70 year olds - hanging out with younger people and by younger I mean mainly in their late 40s/early 50s - to know modern slang and modern pop songs. I also wish that the beginning of the friendship of the three women had been either longer (more than just one year) or that it had been developed with more background. The relationship DeeDee had with her NY-based friends seemed more solid and realistic - because it had time to grow. I think the idea of this book was interesting - how does a person who is mourning a partner of many years and feeling stagnant “move forward” with life … sometimes it takes looking inside and making conscious changes, sometimes it takes a family of friends and sometimes it takes making huge changes because they feel right. I found this book a bit predictable, but it was fun along the way (oh, how I wish I had an Anthony in my life - he reminded me why NYC can be such a fun place to visit and live). However, this book was a quick read and I can understand why Ms. Brown’s books have a popular reach.
“Wish You Were Here” is by Alex Brown. This book follows DeeDee, who is turning 70. DeeDee’s husband died a number of years ago and as she approaches 70, DeeDee is not only missing him but also feeling lonely. She decides to celebrate turning 70 with her two friends (Rosie and Gina) in NYC, where they will also meet up with her NYC-based friends. This book covers grief, grieving, personal discovery, new directions, and how friends can become the family you’ve always wanted. I don’t think the cover of this book does the insides justice - as the women on the front look to be in their late 30s, maybe early 40s, not in their 50s and 70. And I think that was another issue I had with the book - while DeeDee is young at heart, how realistic is it for 70 year olds - hanging out with younger people and by younger I mean mainly in their late 40s/early 50s - to know modern slang and modern pop songs. I also wish that the beginning of the friendship of the three women had been either longer (more than just one year) or that it had been developed with more background. The relationship DeeDee had with her NY-based friends seemed more solid and realistic - because it had time to grow. I think the idea of this book was interesting - how does a person who is mourning a partner of many years and feeling stagnant “move forward” with life … sometimes it takes looking inside and making conscious changes, sometimes it takes a family of friends and sometimes it takes making huge changes because they feel right. I found this book a bit predictable, but it was fun along the way (oh, how I wish I had an Anthony in my life - he reminded me why NYC can be such a fun place to visit and live). However, this book was a quick read and I can understand why Ms. Brown’s books have a popular reach.
April 29, 2025
‘Wish You Were Here’ centres on protagonist, Deedee, who is fast approaching her 70th birthday. Surrounded by fun loving friends Rosie and Gina, she makes arrangements to visit New York, but there is one person missing – her late husband Joe who died four years earlier. As readers we are let in to Deedee’s thoughts, and know how much she remains effected by Joe’s loss. There’s one thing she wasn’t expecting though, a video from Joe who recorded it as a codicil to his Will. No spoilers here, but suffice to say, it changes the direction of the novel in providing a turning point for Deedee.
The characters were very likeable and portrayed as embracing the opportunities that came their way. It was nice to read the story of someone later in their life without age being a dominating (or restricting) feature too. I personally found the conversational exchanges to be a bit saccharine for my reading tastes, I was curious to know more about the background of Deedee in particular to better understand her. There was some reference to where she met Joe and their friend Yannis, but otherwise this was largely left blank. I understand that there is an earlier book from author Alex Brown, which I haven’t read, so perhaps that better covers the character development.
There were nice references to film locations in New York, and from the solicitor’s office to the Hamptons, a strong picture was built of each place with good descriptions.
Overall a pleasant read. Solid 3/5
The characters were very likeable and portrayed as embracing the opportunities that came their way. It was nice to read the story of someone later in their life without age being a dominating (or restricting) feature too. I personally found the conversational exchanges to be a bit saccharine for my reading tastes, I was curious to know more about the background of Deedee in particular to better understand her. There was some reference to where she met Joe and their friend Yannis, but otherwise this was largely left blank. I understand that there is an earlier book from author Alex Brown, which I haven’t read, so perhaps that better covers the character development.
There were nice references to film locations in New York, and from the solicitor’s office to the Hamptons, a strong picture was built of each place with good descriptions.
Overall a pleasant read. Solid 3/5
December 23, 2025
A year after the Greek island getaway featured in Bring Me Sunshine (book 1 in this series), we join Deedee, Rosie and Gina as they journey to New York, to celebrate Deedee's upcoming 70th birthday.
However with the advent of a milestone birthday, Deedee is filled with melancholy longing for her late husband, Joe, and the friends and locations in New York bring him closer than ever. And while her friends keep trying to set her up on a date with her oldest friend (and old flame), everyone's plans are turned on their heads when Joe's lawyer turns up out of the blue with a codicil to Joe's will, leaving Deedee in possession of a beach house in the Hamptons.
This was a nice read, but a bit maudlin for my taste. I was hoping for another fun jaunt with three middle-aged Queenagers, but instead we have introspection and longing and grief counselling - which does have its place, but is not what was expected. Deedee is not the self-confident, flamboyant woman we saw in the last book; rather she seems to be floundering, and by the end of the book becomes the complete opposite of the character she was in book 1. Rosie and Gina have become one-dimensional characters - "efficient party planner" and "invisible" respectively - and I feel Anthony was the real star who carried the story.
All up, a nice, book, but not for me.
~This is a NetGalley ARC. All opinions are my own~
However with the advent of a milestone birthday, Deedee is filled with melancholy longing for her late husband, Joe, and the friends and locations in New York bring him closer than ever. And while her friends keep trying to set her up on a date with her oldest friend (and old flame), everyone's plans are turned on their heads when Joe's lawyer turns up out of the blue with a codicil to Joe's will, leaving Deedee in possession of a beach house in the Hamptons.
This was a nice read, but a bit maudlin for my taste. I was hoping for another fun jaunt with three middle-aged Queenagers, but instead we have introspection and longing and grief counselling - which does have its place, but is not what was expected. Deedee is not the self-confident, flamboyant woman we saw in the last book; rather she seems to be floundering, and by the end of the book becomes the complete opposite of the character she was in book 1. Rosie and Gina have become one-dimensional characters - "efficient party planner" and "invisible" respectively - and I feel Anthony was the real star who carried the story.
All up, a nice, book, but not for me.
~This is a NetGalley ARC. All opinions are my own~
April 26, 2025
While I enjoyed Wish You Were Here, it really didn’t set my heart on fire. This is a gentle, reflective story about learning to live with grief and loss, about friendship and about lifting others up when they need a boost. It is set mostly in New York City and highlights some of the attractions there. The plot has enough twists to keep you interested but I thought it lacked tension and never felt compelled to read on when other aspects of my life cropped up.
I loved that Deedee, the main character in this story, was nearly seventy. It’s wonderful to see people of around my age taking centre stage in novels, and Deedee certainly does that. While she’s still missing her husband Joe four years after his death, she’s still a vibrant woman and a force to be reckoned with. Her two friends, Rosie and Gina are wonderful supporting characters and I loved that while Rosie was able to help Deedee with some of her problems, DAeedee was also able to help Rosie. The male characters in this story are also beautifully rounded and interesting.
While I wasn’t driven to keep finding out what happened next, I did finish the story and it ties itself up nicely at the end. If you’re into gentle, meandering stories with nice characters, this book should suit you well.
I loved that Deedee, the main character in this story, was nearly seventy. It’s wonderful to see people of around my age taking centre stage in novels, and Deedee certainly does that. While she’s still missing her husband Joe four years after his death, she’s still a vibrant woman and a force to be reckoned with. Her two friends, Rosie and Gina are wonderful supporting characters and I loved that while Rosie was able to help Deedee with some of her problems, DAeedee was also able to help Rosie. The male characters in this story are also beautifully rounded and interesting.
While I wasn’t driven to keep finding out what happened next, I did finish the story and it ties itself up nicely at the end. If you’re into gentle, meandering stories with nice characters, this book should suit you well.
July 13, 2025
In this fun new novel about female friendships and second chances at love, readers follow Deedee, Gina, and Rosie at a critical point in Deedee’s life: her husband has recently died, her travel agency is in a bit of a lull, and a milestone birthday is approaching. Inviting Gina and Rosie to celebrate her birthday in New York City, Deedee hopes that this trip will give her the vacation she needs and help her feel closer to her late husband. When they arrive in the city, however, Deedee is surprised by a secret gift, Joe’s childhood beach house in the Hamptons, and a few other secrets she wasn’t expecting to learn about on this trip. With a host of great characters and a bunch of secrets on this New York trip, this book brings readers along on an emotional rollercoaster where secrets and happy endings are on the itinerary. Gina, Rosie, and Deedee’s friendship is really interesting and complex, and readers definitely get the impression that they have been friends for a very long time. Readers will love the centrality of their friendship and their solidarity with Deedee as the events -- both planned and unplanned -- of this definitely unforgettable trip unfold.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the advance copy.
April 5, 2025
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this eCopy to review
Wish You Were Here by Alex Brown, centres on Deedee Merriman, a travel agent who’s at a crossroads in her life. With her business struggling and a milestone birthday looming, Deedee decides to shake things up by planning a celebratory trip to New York with her two closest friends, Gina and Rosie. The city holds a special place in Deedee’s heart, as it’s where she feels closest to her late husband, Joe.
Once in New York, Deedee is surprised with an unexpected gift—a small, rundown beach house in the Hamptons, a place tied to Joe’s childhood. As she explores the house and its history, Deedee uncovers secrets about Joe’s past that challenge her understanding of their life together. At the same time, the trip becomes a journey of self-discovery for Deedee and her friends, as they confront their own struggles and find strength in their bond.
The novel is heartfelt and emotional, with themes of friendship, love, and second chances woven throughout, offering a pleasant read with a warm, uplifting message. It’s a good choice if you’re in the mood for a light, feel-good story about friendship and new beginnings.
Wish You Were Here by Alex Brown, centres on Deedee Merriman, a travel agent who’s at a crossroads in her life. With her business struggling and a milestone birthday looming, Deedee decides to shake things up by planning a celebratory trip to New York with her two closest friends, Gina and Rosie. The city holds a special place in Deedee’s heart, as it’s where she feels closest to her late husband, Joe.
Once in New York, Deedee is surprised with an unexpected gift—a small, rundown beach house in the Hamptons, a place tied to Joe’s childhood. As she explores the house and its history, Deedee uncovers secrets about Joe’s past that challenge her understanding of their life together. At the same time, the trip becomes a journey of self-discovery for Deedee and her friends, as they confront their own struggles and find strength in their bond.
The novel is heartfelt and emotional, with themes of friendship, love, and second chances woven throughout, offering a pleasant read with a warm, uplifting message. It’s a good choice if you’re in the mood for a light, feel-good story about friendship and new beginnings.
April 11, 2025
In 'Wish You Were Here' we meet and follow DeeDee. An adventurous and outgoing woman about to celebrate her 70th birthday. With the big day fast approaching, DeeDee longs more and more for the love of her life, her late husband, Joe. When things take an unexpected turn of events, DeeDee is forced to come to terms with her loss, her mortality and maybe even her second chance.
This was a very sweet story. I enjoyed reading it quite a bit. I got caught up in my feels while reading it. My only issue with it, is that the main character did not read as a 70-year-old woman. It felt like I was reading about someone much younger. This didn't affect my opinion of her, I still adored her, it just threw me off a little bit. There's so much I just want to gush about but it would be too many spoilers. So I will just say, this book will make you smile and break your heart. I positively adored it. I'll be thinking about this one for a little while before I let it go.
Thank you to the author & Rachel's Random Resources for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This was a very sweet story. I enjoyed reading it quite a bit. I got caught up in my feels while reading it. My only issue with it, is that the main character did not read as a 70-year-old woman. It felt like I was reading about someone much younger. This didn't affect my opinion of her, I still adored her, it just threw me off a little bit. There's so much I just want to gush about but it would be too many spoilers. So I will just say, this book will make you smile and break your heart. I positively adored it. I'll be thinking about this one for a little while before I let it go.
Thank you to the author & Rachel's Random Resources for a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 10, 2025
What a truly lovely book this was.
I really enjoyed catching back up with Deedee, Gina and Rosie, as they come together to celebrate Deedee's 70th birthday in New York.
Little do they know their trip is going to distracted by surprises beyond the grave by Joe who must have been the world's best man. From memories of him, and just what he had planned for Deedee, it's clear he was a gentleman, a romantic and all around good guy.
It's good to see how the friends are all dealing with various things in their own lives, and just how much Deedee develops and changes over the course of this trip to New York. It was great to see her zest for life getting stronger the whole time.
This was such an enjoyable story, and I loved Rosie's enthusiasm for hoping to see all the places made famous by movies. And I loved the descriptions of McDreamy too!
This is a gorgeous story, and a joy to have read.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I really enjoyed catching back up with Deedee, Gina and Rosie, as they come together to celebrate Deedee's 70th birthday in New York.
Little do they know their trip is going to distracted by surprises beyond the grave by Joe who must have been the world's best man. From memories of him, and just what he had planned for Deedee, it's clear he was a gentleman, a romantic and all around good guy.
It's good to see how the friends are all dealing with various things in their own lives, and just how much Deedee develops and changes over the course of this trip to New York. It was great to see her zest for life getting stronger the whole time.
This was such an enjoyable story, and I loved Rosie's enthusiasm for hoping to see all the places made famous by movies. And I loved the descriptions of McDreamy too!
This is a gorgeous story, and a joy to have read.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
March 15, 2025
Deedee is going to be 70 years old, her travel business isn't doing well, competing with the ones that are online, and her husband passed away 4 years ago. She decides she is going to invite two of her friends, Gina and Rosie, to go on a trip to New York for a week to celebrate her birthday. The week started out with sadness because there were so many reminders of her husband Joe. Her friends that came with her, and her friends she has in New York, helped turn things around. There are so many things that she learned, many surprises she never expected, and her life sure did change. It was nice reading about her journey, and there is still a lot of life left for her after turning 70. It was quite exciting to see the changes, and when she was feeling so down, she decided to do something, and she saw that things can happen that turns everything around.
I received an ARC from Boldwood Books through NetGalley.
I received an ARC from Boldwood Books through NetGalley.
March 21, 2025
At the cusp of turning 70, Deedee Merriman feels untethered. Having lost the love of her life, she's struggled to move past his death by burying her feelings. The milestone birthday's flickering candles brings to light that she's alone. Looking back at her life, she's traveled the world, has supportive friends and a career she loves but what does that mean without her best friend?
Finding herself drifting, Deedee needs to shaken and stir up her situation. The travel business is floundering and she needs a change of scene to take stock of her life. Planning a girl's trip to NYC, this Londoner is ready to take a bite out of the Big Apple and get to the core or at least plant seeds for her future.
Alex Brown's #WIshYouWereHere pens the power of friendship and that true friends will see you through life's storms. While offering her a lifeline, there's still rocky water ahead... so tread lightly.
Finding herself drifting, Deedee needs to shaken and stir up her situation. The travel business is floundering and she needs a change of scene to take stock of her life. Planning a girl's trip to NYC, this Londoner is ready to take a bite out of the Big Apple and get to the core or at least plant seeds for her future.
Alex Brown's #WIshYouWereHere pens the power of friendship and that true friends will see you through life's storms. While offering her a lifeline, there's still rocky water ahead... so tread lightly.
April 2, 2025
A very enjoyable sequel to Bring Me Sunshine, where the three ladies in this book originally met.
This story centres around Deedee who is about to reach 70, so the friends journey to New York for the celebrations, as Deedee has friends and memories with her late husband there. She's still struggling with being on her own and also hitting the big 7-0, but her friends help her come to terms with everything.
There are some great new side characters, and an old/new love interest for Deedee, who also had a great fun family who loved Deedee. There was also a big surprise towards the end, but in a very nice way.
A very enjoyable story about second chances and living life to the full. I do agree with quite a few other comments I've read about the cover though, as it's nothing like the three ladies described in the book. It looks to portray 30-somethings, and as I find a cover very important in picking up a book initially this is very deceiving and a bit disappointing.
This story centres around Deedee who is about to reach 70, so the friends journey to New York for the celebrations, as Deedee has friends and memories with her late husband there. She's still struggling with being on her own and also hitting the big 7-0, but her friends help her come to terms with everything.
There are some great new side characters, and an old/new love interest for Deedee, who also had a great fun family who loved Deedee. There was also a big surprise towards the end, but in a very nice way.
A very enjoyable story about second chances and living life to the full. I do agree with quite a few other comments I've read about the cover though, as it's nothing like the three ladies described in the book. It looks to portray 30-somethings, and as I find a cover very important in picking up a book initially this is very deceiving and a bit disappointing.
March 17, 2025
The perfect feel good book, comforting, fun, and mostly set in fabulous New York!! Gorgeous escapism from one of my favourite author’s Alex Brown.
Deedee is feeling flat as her big birthday is coming, she is still missing her beloved husband, her travel agency is slowing down and she is starting to think her life needs a change. To be positive she sets up a wonderful break in New York with her new friends Gina and Rosie, planning cocktails, visiting film locations and having fun. Also to catch up with some old friends.
Life’s journey can be hard with love and loss, but being reawakened and realising there is still more to live for is inspiring!!
Sensitive, fabulous characters, reminiscent of Sex and the City with a bit of Hollywood. What a brilliant read!
Loved this book and can recommend highly!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood books for the early read!!
Deedee is feeling flat as her big birthday is coming, she is still missing her beloved husband, her travel agency is slowing down and she is starting to think her life needs a change. To be positive she sets up a wonderful break in New York with her new friends Gina and Rosie, planning cocktails, visiting film locations and having fun. Also to catch up with some old friends.
Life’s journey can be hard with love and loss, but being reawakened and realising there is still more to live for is inspiring!!
Sensitive, fabulous characters, reminiscent of Sex and the City with a bit of Hollywood. What a brilliant read!
Loved this book and can recommend highly!!
Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood books for the early read!!
July 13, 2025
Wish You Were Here is the second book in the ‘Come Away With Me’ series but could be read as a standalone without any issues.
The story follows Deedee who is about to celebrate her 70th birthday and decides to do so by going to New York with her two friends. Deedee is still grieving the death of her husband and she gets reminders of their time together whilst away on holiday and ideas for where life should take her next.
Alex Brown is a great writer and in this book she combines nostalgia, romance and the reminder that age is only a number and life is most definitely for living with Deedee’s story.
There’s plenty of possibility for more books to come in the series and I will definitely be reading them as and when they are released.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book.
The story follows Deedee who is about to celebrate her 70th birthday and decides to do so by going to New York with her two friends. Deedee is still grieving the death of her husband and she gets reminders of their time together whilst away on holiday and ideas for where life should take her next.
Alex Brown is a great writer and in this book she combines nostalgia, romance and the reminder that age is only a number and life is most definitely for living with Deedee’s story.
There’s plenty of possibility for more books to come in the series and I will definitely be reading them as and when they are released.
Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book.
April 14, 2025
The friendships in this book are amazing. Deedee has the friendships that women dream of. Gina and Rosie understand what Deedee needs before she even knows it herself. They give her space when she needs it, keep her company when needed, and always support her. I love that their friendship is on the new side, but it feels like it has years of understanding and knowledge.
I have never visited New York but it is on my list of places to be visited. I love how Gina and Rosie chose where to go. Visiting movie locations is a great way to see a city with so much to offer. The surprise that Joe, Deedee’s late husband, left her made me cry.
This is my first Alex Brown book and I am excited to read more.
I have never visited New York but it is on my list of places to be visited. I love how Gina and Rosie chose where to go. Visiting movie locations is a great way to see a city with so much to offer. The surprise that Joe, Deedee’s late husband, left her made me cry.
This is my first Alex Brown book and I am excited to read more.
April 17, 2025
Wish You Were Here is the first book I've read from Brown and on the strength of this alone it's definitely not going to be my last.
I love books that have an older person at the helm. They make you realise that life is for the living whatever age you are.
Brown's characters are realistic and those friendships were goals. Dee Dee reminded me so much of my Mum, who is still very much lively and has the mindset of someone younger.
Little did I know this is actually the sequel to another of Brown's books, Bring Me Sunshine. This didn't distract from my enjoyment of the book in anyway. But for further backstory on the friends is one I'll definitely be reading soon.
A thoroughly enjoyable escapism read. Full of friendship and fun.
I love books that have an older person at the helm. They make you realise that life is for the living whatever age you are.
Brown's characters are realistic and those friendships were goals. Dee Dee reminded me so much of my Mum, who is still very much lively and has the mindset of someone younger.
Little did I know this is actually the sequel to another of Brown's books, Bring Me Sunshine. This didn't distract from my enjoyment of the book in anyway. But for further backstory on the friends is one I'll definitely be reading soon.
A thoroughly enjoyable escapism read. Full of friendship and fun.
April 12, 2025
Wow didn’t realise how long it’s been since I read Brown’s debut novel (11 years since Cupcakes at Carringtons).
Brown has a lovely writing style. Deedee (the lead)- strong female about to turn 70 but just not ready. Still mourning the death of her soulmate Joe. Brown deals with it in such a gentle, caring manner.
An enjoyable read. Now looking at Brown’s back catalogue of novels- I’ve got some work to do.
Brown has a lovely writing style. Deedee (the lead)- strong female about to turn 70 but just not ready. Still mourning the death of her soulmate Joe. Brown deals with it in such a gentle, caring manner.
An enjoyable read. Now looking at Brown’s back catalogue of novels- I’ve got some work to do.
July 20, 2025
Very repetitive/perseverative. (I wrote a review at the 63% complete point, and that review holds true still) The main character seems to have about 4 thoughts only. 2 of which are her late husband (died 4 years prior), and her age. Character development outside of the main character was minimal. Barely know one of her closest friends who is on the adventure with her (Gina). The last 10% or so is well done (hence the 2 stars)
August 19, 2025
Deedee invites her friends, Gina and Rosie to celebrate her impending 'big' birthday with her in New York. She has been feeling a bit lost and misses her husband Joe greatly. Will this break give her what she needs?
On arrival in New York, Deedee struggles to remain positive, but a surprise gift changes everything.
I loved this story - the friendship between the women shone through and the New York setting worked perfectly.
Thanks to Boldwood Books for an advance copy.
On arrival in New York, Deedee struggles to remain positive, but a surprise gift changes everything.
I loved this story - the friendship between the women shone through and the New York setting worked perfectly.
Thanks to Boldwood Books for an advance copy.
March 23, 2025
Another wonderful book from Alex Brown. Deedee’s life has changed dramatically since the death of her husband Joe. So , on her up and coming 70th birthday she and her two friends go off to NYC to party with a few interesting conversations and things along the way. A lighthearted romantic book. Thanks to Alex and their publisher.
April 3, 2025
Deedee is about to celebrate her 70th birthday and she’s choosing to go to New York to celebrate with friends. Old friends meet and the party begins, she’s just missing her beloved husband. It’s a heart felt read about friendships and life after grief. A throughly enjoyable 4.5 star book, Thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for a copy.
May 8, 2025
Wish You Were Here by Alex Brown
This was an interesting read.
Turning seventy isn’t easy, physically or emotionally.
Deedee Meriman is trying to revitalize her travel agency, and looking for her next chapter as her big birthday approaches.
A widow that has avoided rejoining the world, she heads to New York with her friends, Gina and Rosie, to celebrate and hoping to find a new path.
Secrets were unwrapped as the celebration continued over several days.
This was a story of celebrating love and a full life, and finding new love with second chances.
Deedee gets more than she bargained for when she discovers a big secret left behind by her late husband.
The beginning was slow and a little hard to connect with. There was so much reminiscing that it somewhat blocked the reader, leaving them to feel like they missed the story. It wasn’t until the last 1/3 that things got really interesting and redeeming. I enjoyed it, but overall, it was just okay for me. I didn’t connect with the story like I would have liked to. 3/5⭐
I would like to Thank NetGalley for the opportunity to review an ARC of this novel.
This was an interesting read.
Turning seventy isn’t easy, physically or emotionally.
Deedee Meriman is trying to revitalize her travel agency, and looking for her next chapter as her big birthday approaches.
A widow that has avoided rejoining the world, she heads to New York with her friends, Gina and Rosie, to celebrate and hoping to find a new path.
Secrets were unwrapped as the celebration continued over several days.
This was a story of celebrating love and a full life, and finding new love with second chances.
Deedee gets more than she bargained for when she discovers a big secret left behind by her late husband.
The beginning was slow and a little hard to connect with. There was so much reminiscing that it somewhat blocked the reader, leaving them to feel like they missed the story. It wasn’t until the last 1/3 that things got really interesting and redeeming. I enjoyed it, but overall, it was just okay for me. I didn’t connect with the story like I would have liked to. 3/5⭐
I would like to Thank NetGalley for the opportunity to review an ARC of this novel.
September 21, 2025
Away with her best friends to new York 5 years after her husband passed away as her lawyer said there was an add on in the will on her 70th birthday. Romance, friendship, remembrance, and feeling of joy and exuberance to start on the next chapter of her life thanks to her husband's surprise that he engineered before passing. Lovely read
May 4, 2025
It took until half way through this very slow moving book for something interesting to happen. The pace did not really pick up, but it was more enjoyable to read. The latter chapters held some lovely surprises.
May 9, 2025
This story resonated with me as I’m coming up to a big birthday too, not quite yet the same age as the character but couldn’t help share the insecurities and what it means.
I absolutely loved this book! The plot twist at the end was so lovely and the ending was just perfect. 😊
I absolutely loved this book! The plot twist at the end was so lovely and the ending was just perfect. 😊
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