Kärlek på grekiska

by Lucy Diamond, Katharina Cohen (Narrator)

På den soldränkta ön Kefalonia söker de nyanlända gästerna på det fantastiska hotellet en välbehövlig paus från vardagen. Men det visar sig att några av dem har alldeles för mycket bagage att släpa runt på.

Den vanärade tv-stjärnan Miranda Vallance känner sig som världens sämsta person. Hennes syster vill inte prata med henne och hon är på väg att förlora sitt jobb. Hon vill desperat ställa allting till rätta, men hur?

Åttiotvååriga Evelyn Chambers har kommit till Kefalonia för att uppfylla ett löfte till sitt livs kärlek. Om hon kan förmå sig själv att genomföra det, vill säga.

Och när kändiskocken Frank Neale checkar in, surrar det av rykten på hotellet. Men är det han eller hans fru Leonora som har störst anledning att fly till Grekland?

Kärlek på grekiska är en roman som hyllar en andra chans, sann kärlek och den livsbejakande glädjen i osannolik vänskap.

Genres: Romance, Audiobook, Contemporary, Chick Lit

Audiobook

Published June 5, 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.

[Tiina A · 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.

[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.

[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.

[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.

[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...

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is set on the beautiful greek island of Kefalonia, which I have been lucky enough to visit.
We meet each character who all have a different story to tell.
Duska is the receptionist at the Ionian hotel, who is a new mum. Is she doing the right thing leaving her new baby with her husband?
Miranda, the disgraced actress who is in hiding.
Frank and Nelly, whose marriage tetters on a knife edge.
And the lovely Evelyn, who was my favourite character. What a story she has to tell!
I love the way Lucy alternates each character by chapter, giving you a little bit of intrigue before moving on to the next character. You just want to read on to find out what happens next.
I love Lucy's books and look forward to reading each one every year. She has that special ability to make you warm to each character even if they start out as not very nice.
The setting is perfect, and we are given a little tour when Miranda takes a drive out with Evelyn.
A must-read for all Lucy's fans.
Thanks to Netgalley and Quercus Books for the ARC in return for an honest review.

[Reading Escapologist · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley for my ARC.

What a lovely feel-good read. If, like me, you need a break from heavy, hard hitting books then this is the perfect antidote.

On the Greek Island you have a gorgeous hotel. Here you will find disgraced actress Miranda who has come to ride out the media storm after her disgraceful behaviour. What has she actually done? Will the guests ever stop taking photos of her and let her relax?

Another guest is on a mission to honour a promise she made to her late wife.

There’s also Nelly, the wife of another famous person. But she’s trying to work out if her husband is as bad as the claims that have been made against him. She’s going to try and enjoy the island. After all, her first love was here many years ago.

You also have a very gentle hotel manager and a whole host of employees that have their own reasons for being here.

This is a great book. I couldn’t put it down. The details of their lives played out bit by bit, reeling you in. I enjoyed the different aspects of each of them. Even the very sad moment didn’t detract from a beautiful story.

[Rachael · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really did love this and the writing style of the book was so easy to read, that I instantly became drawn into the story and was transported to the beautiful island of Kefalonia. The multiple perspectives and dual timelines, was a good way of telling the story and learning about the characters and kept me turning the pages.
I loved the characters in the book and found them all so diverse, each going through different things and experiences and these important topics were written and handled so beautifully. I really connected with each of them (I loved Evelyn 🥹) and liked reading how their characters progressed and the way in which they all connected and came together was really good.
The ending of the book was very deep and emotional, but this was written so well. I liked how things turned out for each of them and found it fitting for the story.
The setting of the book was just beautiful, I could imagine myself on the beach, or by the pool enjoying one of the many beautiful cocktails that were mentioned and the hotel sounded like a dream.

[Annie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in a hotel on Kefalonia, this book is told from the point of view of some of the guests and staff. Mostly in the present day, there are also flashbacks to previous times which adds to the stories of some of the individuals. I found the book a little chaotic at first, there are a lot of people and some of them are quick to anger, but as the plot starts to come together, I became more engaged with the book and started to like the characters more. A lot happens in the book and some of the coincidences stretch credibility a little too much, but as the stories of the main characters develop, the plot hooks you in. Kefalonia and Ithaca lovely, but beyond a couple of descriptions and naming of a couple of the touristy places, they are little more than the backdrop.
So, this book turned out much better than I initially expected,quite emotional but also thoughtprovoking. For an escapist read, you could do a lot worse .Thanks to Net Galley for the ARC

[Sally Tyrer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have always really enjoyed Lucy’s books and was very excited to read The island getaway, the thought of being transported to wonderfully warm and sunny Kefalonia was so tantalising as I was sat here listening to storm Darragh raging around!
Such a beautiful setting and fantastic sounding Ionian escape hotel gave all the perfect holiday/beach vibes!
Initially I struggled to get into the book and acquainted with the myriad of characters, but as I progressed through the book and became familiar with the eclectic mix of personalities and their back stories I found myself enjoying the read, I particularly loved Nelly,Evelyn and Miranda and loved the way they became linked during there stay at the hotel and all the other characters who added such a depth to the storyline and the overall sense of friendship, making up and second chances!
A lovely book to pack for your next sunny holiday destination
Thank you NetGalley fir this early read

[Claire · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s been such a long time since I read a Lucie Diamond novel and once I knew this was set on Kefalonia, I was especially keen to read it. New arrivals at the Ionian Escape Hotel are looking to get away from it all, but not seems that some people are bringing excess baggage with them. Miranda is a successful actress but following a confrontation with a co-star, she’s headed to Kefalonia to keep a low profile for a couple of weeks. Nelly has fond memories of the island and her first love but has returned with her husband, a celebrity chef, but as the rumour mill churns, it seems Nelly has even more reason to escape. And finally Evelyn has returned to the island to fulfil a promise, she just hopes she can go through with it. This is a heartwarming novel with some great characters. It’s well written with a plot that you can totally immerse yourself in and almost hear the lapping of the Ionian Sea. Thank you to NetGalley, Quercus Books and the author for the chance to review.