Lomasaari lohtua kaipaaville

by Lucy Diamond, Eeva Parviainen (Translator)

Rakastetun kirjailijan sykähdyttävä kertomus ystävyydestä, rakkaudesta ja pakomatkoista unelmien Kreikkaan.

Luksushotelliin Kefalonian saarelle saapuu lomailijoita, jotka kaipaavat lepoa ja irtiottoa. Joillakin heistä on kovin paljon painolastia mukanaan.

Epäsuosioon joutunut tv-tähti Miranda tahtoo unohtaa ikävän mediakohun, ja 82-vuotias Evelyn palaa muistojen saarelle jättämään haikeat jäähyväiset. Huippukokki Frank kirjautuu hotelliin skandaalin ja juorujen saattelemana, mutta mitä hänen vaimonsa Leonora onkaan paossa?

Kutkuttavan kiehtova romaani hellii lukijaa kuvaamalla uusia alkuja, tosirakkautta ja sitä, kuinka epätodennäköinen ystävystyminen voi palauttaa elämään värit.

Genres: Romance, Audiobook, Contemporary, Chick Lit

396 pages, Hardcover

Published April 10, 2025

About the author

Librarian note:
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name

First of all, a confession. My name isn’t really Lucy Diamond at all, it’s Sue Mongredien. I’ve used a pen name because ‘Diamond’ is a lot easier to spell and pronounce than ‘Mongredien’ and also because I’ve written lots of children’s books too and wanted to keep the genres separate. (There is actually another Lucy Diamond on Amazon who writes religious children’s books. That isn’t me, though.)

I was born in 1970 and grew up in Nottingham. I read English at Leeds University then moved to London and worked for various publishers before I packed it all in to go travelling around the world for a year and a half. When I came back to the UK, I worked in publishing again, then moved to the BBC. I now live in Bath with my husband and three young children and divide my time between writing and looking after them. You can have a look at my children’s books here.

Favourite things: beaches, holidays, chocolate, wine, reading, Green Wing, bubble baths, sunshine, hearing my children laugh, babysitters

Favourite books: The Magus (John Fowles), The Edible Woman (Margaret Atwood), The Secret History (Donna Tartt), The Colour of Memory (Geoff Dyer)

Reviews

[Ceecee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Who fancies an island getaway right now as autumn sets in? That’ll be me, me and me!

Duska, a new mum and receptionist welcomes guests to The Ionian Escape, a hotel on the beautiful Greek island of Kefalonia. There’s disgraced soap star Miranda Valance who is hoping this island getaway will enable her to salvage her career. Then there’s delightful 82 year-old Evelyn Chambers who has an important task to undertake on an island that holds precious memories for her. Finally, there’s a couple in the 60s– Frank and Leonora (Nelly) Neale and the distance between them is clear for all to see. How much longer can Nelly put up with her renowned celebrity chef husband’s behaviour? He certainly makes an impression on arrival at Duska’s desk. That’s just for starters as several characters tell their stories in the warm September. So sit back, relax and transport yourself to this island escape.

This book is just what I need and I don’t think I realise just how much until I settle into it! I so appreciate the holiday vibe that Lucy Diamond creates as she transports her readers to this beautiful island. She uses the various location so well on a tour around some of its glorious spots via Miranda and Nelly and it’s a really satisfying experience and read.

The characters and their back stories are really interesting, there’s definitely meat on the bones of all their experiences and they are handled sympathetically and well. Like Miranda, I fall in love with Evelyn who works her magic on Miranda who grows and grows as a character as the book progresses. The stories make you sad or angry on their behalf but you are left with hope and a smile. I like the way the author keeps tantalisingly switching the characters perspective as it leaves you ploughing on, wanting answers and more.

Overall, I’m left feeling as if I’ve departed chilly autumnal England for a most enjoyable piece of escapism in a magical place.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publishers and Lucy Diamond for the much appreciated arc in return for an honest review.

[Jaana · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ihan jees, muttei Lucy Diamondin parhaimmistoa. Oli kovasti hahmoja ja jäivät minusta vähän valjuiksi. Teemojakin mahtui kirjaan aika monta, joten eipä nekään kovin syvälle uponneet. 2,5

[Cecilia Ollikainen · Rating 4 out of 5]

lucy diamond toimii aina! en ollut ihan niin kiinnostunut jokaisen hahmon tarinoista alusta asti, mutta yleisesti tämä loi lohdullisen kokonaisuuden jossa monen eri ihmisen tiet ja tarinat ristenivät ja yhdistyivät.

[Lukuwaja · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jälleen aivan ihana kirja missä on kevyellä otteella käsitelty vaikeitakin asioita.

[Grace Power · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful location that made me immediately want to pack my bags and check in for a holiday.

[Kirjoihin kadonnut || Johanna · Rating 3 out of 5]

3,5 ⭐️

Tämä oli aivan täydellistä kesäluettavaa. Pidän myös Diamondin tyylistä kirjoittaa kevyen vetävästi, mutta samalla käsitellen vakaviakin aiheita syvällisemmin. Kauneus hänen kirjoissaan löytyy ihmisyydestä, ihmisten kohtaamisesta, yhteydestä ja ystävyydestä. Ja toivo, toivo ja unelma paremmasta on aina läsnä. Kyllä tämäkin onnistui liikuttamaan moneen otteeseen.

Nyt mulla on vaan akuutti kuume päästä Kreikkaan.

[Sini · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was lovely! Although I cried couple of times.. The book followed a life of multiple people in Greece all around the world. There is nothing super exciting or world changing about it - it is just a good book that made me feel like I am in sunny Kefalonia.

[Sue Thorpe · Rating 5 out of 5]

Review to follow
4.8⭐️

[Julie Brookes · Rating 3 out of 5]

I couldn’t get away with this book, there were so many characters in one go and it was difficult to remember who was who, I skipped a lot and just read the final chapter, sorry it was a bit disappointing

[Agi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another book that I am not sure what to think about to be honest. I mean, it was a lovely and multilayered story, thought over and a step away from Lucy Diamond's previous books - it felt a bit serious in tone, more mature than usual.
On the other hand, there were many, many characters thrown together in - yes - very beautiful setting. But so many that I truly had problems to check whose turn it is and who is telling the story now.
I think my problem is that it was so brilliant happy end for all of the characters that it felt just too unrealistic. Also, all the "bad" characters and "good" characters, either stereotyped or - of course! - learning their lesson. It's just, there was nothing new in this story and some of the coincidences were too much over the top, just to keep the plot going.
But - after initial confusion and some problems into getting into it, it turned out to be a lovely story. The characters were growing on me with every page and even though their stories really felt too superficial and easy, I found myself engrossed in their lives. There are some emotional moments as well, actually I'd say more than usual and it is thought - provoking. Altogether - an enjoyable read.

[Lakinloveslit · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was the perfect long weekend read! Pure escapism.

The Ioanian Escape is an upmarket hotel on the Greek island of Kefalonia. Duska loves her job as a receptionist and is welcoming our characters - Miranda Vallance, disgraced British soap star; Evelyn Chambers, 82 years old with an important task to do; Frank and Nelly Neale, a couple on the verge of splitting. Alongside these characters we also meet other staff at the hotel and explore the beautiful surroundings of the hotel and island.

This book was actually such a good, easy read, with gorgeous scenery and such a feel good vibe. I absolutely loved it! The characters all felt real, and their backstories were well developed and I felt like I was rooting for each and every one of them. Even though there are multiple POVs, it never felt confusing or like space was just trying to be filled. I especially loved Evelyn and Miranda’s relationship - there’s something so special about an older/younger woman bond 🥰 I would highly recommend this one if you want an easy read that’ll take you away from reality for a while.

[Erika Sääksvuori · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tykkäsin tosi paljon! Aivan ihana tarina ihanassa ympäristössä. Samaistuttavia ihmiskohtaloita. Ihan vähän miinusta poukkoilevasta kerronnasta päähenkilöstä toiseen, mutta sinänsä kiva, kun suurin osa kerronnasta tapahtui samanaikaisesti, joten se selkeytti tarinaa, kun ajassa ei koko ajan hypitty edestakaisin. Vain yhden kertojan tarina oli eri ajassa tapahtuva, mikä hieman häiritsi, kun ei heti saanut kiinni siitä, miten hänen tarinansa liittyy muiden tarinaan.

[Chloe - maggie_books92 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Firstly, thank you so much to @netgalley, @quercusbooks & @lucydiamondwrites for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for honest feedback!

It felt like the perfect time of year to read this sunny, beachy read when it's cold outside & it's getting dark so early! I was fully transported to the beautiful Kefalonia - the only thing missing was a cocktail in my hand! 🏖🍹🤭

If I'm honest, I found the first 25% a wee bit slow going & difficult to get into as there are a number of Point of Views and quite a lot of details, but after that, I struggled to put it down!! 🤭 I'm not normally a fan of multiple POV's but I loved how all of the characters' stories intertwined - it reminded me a wee bit of Love Actually! They all come together perfectly!

It took me a wee while to warm to a couple of the characters (Miranda in particular!! 👀), but they all have pretty tricky journeys to contend with. I absolutely loved Evelyn, a pretty cool 82-year-old who tries to thaw Miranda's frosty shell & help her find her way back to herself again whilst going on an important journey of her own. It's a lovely, heartwarming friendship.

There are a couple of emotional / deep chapters, so grab tissues! 😢 Overall though, it's an easy, cosy read that will help you to forget about the Wintery weather outside & transport you to the warmth & beauty of Kefalonia ☀️

The only reason I've given The Island Getaway 4 stars instead of 5 is because it took me a wee while to be fully invested in the story. Other than that, I would definitely recommend it! 🩷

[Oonagh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Will immediately be looking for Lucy diamond's "I remember Paris". Such an easy and enjoyable summer read.
The endings were all extremely satisfying and happy, although they were also the downfall of this book; I like to have no idea how it will end.
Having said this, sometimes it is good to not feel stressed reading a book, I will admit.

[Alicia Hempseed · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this so so much! I felt like I’d been swept away to Greece and it was such an easy read without being boring. There are lots of different perspectives but I didn’t find it confusing at all.

[Elaine M · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice, easy to read book which would be great as a holiday read! I loved the mix of characters and their own, different stories. Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC.

[Eija Miettunen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Mukava kesälukeminen, paljon hyviä loppuja.

[Karen Frisby · Rating 4 out of 5]

Perfect to read whilst in Corfu☀️

[Liz · Rating 3 out of 5]

A reasonable story though I thought Nelly’s backstory dragged a bit. I loved Evelyn and Miranda’s bits though.

[Toni Wynne · Rating 2 out of 5]

It was a hard slog!

[Carol Sandford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this holiday read once i got to grips with the various characters. Lovely descriptions of the island/s

[Charlotte F · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a lovely read!

[Lucy C · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just the tonic I needed.

What a wonderful escapism!

[Julie Beckett · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an easy page turner, not too demanding, would make a great holiday read - in fact it could inspire the reader to make positive changes afterwards just like a lot of the characters. Of course, in the book, it all goes swimmingly. Real life could be more of a challenge, but still worth putting your mind to it.

[Malin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jag brukar gilla Diamonds böcker och när den utspelar sig i mitt favoritland, Grekland, och på en ö jag besökt flera gånger… Vad kan gå fel?! Precis, inte mycket. 🙂

Förutom trevlig miljö är persongalleriet intressant och handlingen likaså. 

Rekommenderas!

[Felicity Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a solid five stars plus from me! An unexpected full joy that swept me away in the sunshine to the gorgeous and beautiful Greek island of Kefalonia.
The story centres around actress Miranda who has had to escape the tv soap she is involved with, alongside her family and friends after a social media storm and newspaper scandal breaks out in England. The Ionian Escape complex that caters to all the needs of its 5 star guests, attracts all sorts of different people with their own very different sets of agendas and ideas for their holidays. Paths cross and stories are shared that changes the course of their lives unintentionally and unknowingly they all get what they are looking for. Is this fate or destiny?
The characters were an unexpected pleasure to understand and connect with. The story is beautifully crafted and told, entwining the lives of strangers. Fantastic dynamics, scenery and vistas, (can’t wait to go sailing again, and feel the Mediterranean sun).
The story is interesting sensitive and wise, whilst the writing is intelligent and meaningful. For me the perfect book to begin 2025 what an absolute winner! I was engrossed in this book from the first words through to end, there were a few tears and a few smiles, all in all this is a thoroughly wonderful and enjoyable read, hugely and totally recommended this and if you have never read any Lucy Diamond books this one is a great start and truly one of her best yet.
Thank you to NetGalley and Quercus books for the early read so much appreciated.

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I've been enchanted by the idea of visiting Kefalonia ever since I first saw it on a travel programme on TV and although I've made it to other Greek Islands this one has still escaped me, so I was utterly delighted to be transported to to this enchanting island through the pages of this book.

And this is a story that is all about the staff and guests at the Ionian Escape hotel, whose lives interlink far more than you may initially imagine.

Each chapter focuses on a different character, with Miranda and Evelyn being two of the main ones in addition to Nelly (and I loved how we were introduced to her), and Claudia who is one of the hotel managers.

But we also get chapters from the barman, receptionist, Dmiri the big boss and more, and it all puts together a picture of an idyllic place that I was sad to learn was a fictional hotel. Sounds like it would have been somewhere I would have liked to stay myself.

There is excellent character development and the book grabbed me from the opening chapters and wouldn't let me go. I whizzed through it in two evenings pretty much, and it was an excellent reminder to me as to how much I love this author and why I'm puzzled as to why I haven't' read a few of her most recent novels.

I was enchanted by everything and thoroughly enjoyed this lovely sunny book, despite it snowing outside (at time of reading). Definitely a book I would expect to see poolside on my next holidays as its so good!

Thank you to Quercus and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

[Elia Ambrose · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lucy Diamond’s The Island Getaway felt like exactly what I needed—a little carry-on escape after a run of much heavier reads. Her books always have that “holiday” quality for me, and this one delivers it perfectly. Who wouldn’t want to be whisked away to the Greek islands?

The story follows several characters whose lives intertwine on the island of Kefalonia. The setting is beautifully evoked—you can almost smell the ocean air, sunscreen, and warm salt breeze—which makes it easy to sink into the story like stretching out on a sun lounger.

Each character brings their own drama and backstory, and I found myself happily dipping in and out of their lives like stops on a relaxed itinerary. Miranda was a particular standout for me; her growth over the course of the novel felt especially satisfying and gave the story a bit of emotional depth beneath all the sunshine.

At times the plot leans into familiar, well-trodden paths, but honestly that’s part of the appeal—it’s comfort reading at its finest, like returning to a favourite holiday spot where you already know the view.

Overall, I loved the strong theme of women coming together to support one another—it’s always something I enjoy seeing, and here it felt warm, uplifting, and genuine. It left me feeling relaxed, a little sun-soaked, and thoroughly reset.

I’d definitely recommend this if you’re looking for a light, character-driven escape with a vivid sense of place—perfect for when you want a break without actually booking the flight.

A perfect little getaway between heavier reads.

[Daisy Bee · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just adore Lucy Diamond books. Her storytelling is magical and uplifting and gives me such a happy feeling.

The Island Getaway takes us to beautiful Kefalonia, and introduces us to a diverse cast of characters, each floundering in one way or another.

Nelly was once fearless and independent but as she finds out the truth about her husband Frank, she realises she's allowed him to subsume her life. And being back in a place where she was once blissfully happy, albeit briefly, she begins to search for a lost love.

Evelyn has come to the island to scatter the remaining ashes of her true love, Rose. An unlikely friendship develops between her and Miranda, a disgraced soap star also staying at the hotel.

Claudia, office manager fled to Kefalonia to escape an abusive marriage. But she finally feels ready to open her heart again, if she can find the courage to tell her boss how she feels.

Wonderfully warm and uplifting, The Island Getaway reminds us that life is short, and we must hold on to the moments of joy that come our way. It also encourages us to go for what we want and to run towards adventure.

[LindyLouMac · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lucy Diamond is an author whom I have been aware of for many years as a writer of great escapism novels. A genre I do read, but not so often, I have to admit this is the first of her books I have read and it is her twentieth.

Set in the fictitious hotel ‘The Ionian Escape’ on the real Greek islands of Kefalonia and Ithaca. The protagonists are the mixed group of latest arrivals at the hotel, who are all looking for reasons to escape from the outside world for awhile and enjoy some peace and quiet. Of course it is not that simple and the characters and their stories are ones that will find the reader either annoyed or routing for them. As the stories evolve the protagonists all learn the importance of friendship and second chances.

This novel certainly put me in a holiday mood and transported me, (if only), to the Greek islands. Great escapism, perfect for reading on a grey winters day or for that beach read on your next holiday.

With thanks to NetGalley, Quercus and the author for the opportunity to read and review.

https://lindyloumacbookreviews.blogsp...