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The Island Retreat: An emotional new novel from the international #1 bestseller
Not yet published
Expected 26 Feb 26Six guests. One week to uncover their secrets.Rose Talisman is pinning it all on a fresh start.
Five years after her career as a therapist ended in one catastrophic instant, she is opening a retreat in Corfu. The understated, luxurious Villa Artemis is surrounded by wild pines and sea views.
Just six guests. One week. Time for Rose to help them face their secrets – and move forwards.
But Rose has staked everything on the retreat. It has to work – or she loses it all. And people’s secrets have a way of revealing themselves in ways no one expected.
Nobody’s past is staying hidden for long…
Will that include Rose’s, too?
'A triumph […] vivid and wise and uplifting' Marian Keyes
'This latest from [Cathy] is a cracker' Mail on Sunday
'[A] wise and calming novel […] And the Corfu setting is so beautifully evoked' Daily Mail
Five years after her career as a therapist ended in one catastrophic instant, she is opening a retreat in Corfu. The understated, luxurious Villa Artemis is surrounded by wild pines and sea views.
Just six guests. One week. Time for Rose to help them face their secrets – and move forwards.
But Rose has staked everything on the retreat. It has to work – or she loses it all. And people’s secrets have a way of revealing themselves in ways no one expected.
Nobody’s past is staying hidden for long…
Will that include Rose’s, too?
'A triumph […] vivid and wise and uplifting' Marian Keyes
'This latest from [Cathy] is a cracker' Mail on Sunday
'[A] wise and calming novel […] And the Corfu setting is so beautifully evoked' Daily Mail
415 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication February 26, 2026
8 people are currently reading
93 people want to read
About the author
Cathy Kelly
119 books1,099 followersBorn in Belfast but raised in Dublin, Cathy initially worked for thirteen years as a newspaper journalist with a national Irish Sunday newspaper, where she worked in news, features, along with spending time as an agony aunt and the paper’s film critic. However, her overwhelming love was always fiction and she published her first international bestseller, Woman To Woman, in 1997. She did not become a full-time writer until she had written another two books (She’s The One and Never Too Late) and finally decided to leave the world of journalism in 2001, moving to HarperCollins Publishers at the same time.
Someone Like You and What She Wants followed in successive years. Her sixth novel, Just Between Us, was her first Sunday Times number one bestseller, while her eighth novel, Always and Forever, topped the UK bestseller lists in October 2005, displacing Dan Brown and J. K. Rowling. In 2007, Past Secrets in was also a number one paperback bestseller.
Lessons in Heartbreak was shortlisted for the Eason Irish Popular Fiction Book of the Year at the Irish Book Awards in April 2009. In September 2009, Once in a Lifetime topped the UK bestseller lists for three weeks. In March 2011, Homecoming achieved the same feat. Her latest novel is It Started With Paris, published by Orion in 2014.
In Autumn 2011, Cathy headlined a search for a new writer on ITV’s The Alan Titchmarsh Show.
Cathy’s trademark is warm story-telling and she consistently tops the bestseller lists around the world with books which deal with themes ranging from relationships and marriage to depression and loss, but always with an uplifting message and strong female characters at the heart.
Cathy also has a passionate interest in children’s rights and is an ambassador for UNICEF Ireland. Her role for UNICEF is a Global Parent, which means raising funds and awareness for children orphaned by or living with HIV/AIDs.
She lives with her husband, John, their twin sons, Dylan and Murray, and their three dogs in Enniskerry, Co Wicklow.
To contact Cathy email info@cathykelly.com
Someone Like You and What She Wants followed in successive years. Her sixth novel, Just Between Us, was her first Sunday Times number one bestseller, while her eighth novel, Always and Forever, topped the UK bestseller lists in October 2005, displacing Dan Brown and J. K. Rowling. In 2007, Past Secrets in was also a number one paperback bestseller.
Lessons in Heartbreak was shortlisted for the Eason Irish Popular Fiction Book of the Year at the Irish Book Awards in April 2009. In September 2009, Once in a Lifetime topped the UK bestseller lists for three weeks. In March 2011, Homecoming achieved the same feat. Her latest novel is It Started With Paris, published by Orion in 2014.
In Autumn 2011, Cathy headlined a search for a new writer on ITV’s The Alan Titchmarsh Show.
Cathy’s trademark is warm story-telling and she consistently tops the bestseller lists around the world with books which deal with themes ranging from relationships and marriage to depression and loss, but always with an uplifting message and strong female characters at the heart.
Cathy also has a passionate interest in children’s rights and is an ambassador for UNICEF Ireland. Her role for UNICEF is a Global Parent, which means raising funds and awareness for children orphaned by or living with HIV/AIDs.
She lives with her husband, John, their twin sons, Dylan and Murray, and their three dogs in Enniskerry, Co Wicklow.
To contact Cathy email info@cathykelly.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Rose Talisman is starting a new venture. Instead of entertaining the masses on the TV with quick fix therapies, she has opened a retreat for a lucky few who will stay for a week to heal themselves.
Grazia and Bernard are a married couple but Bernard only sees Grazia's problems with her step-children; Keera, a successful singer, is there following her meltdown and time in rehab; India is there to find out why she keeps falling for the wrong men; Dan is simply trying to get the girl who dumped him to take him back; and Dianne is filled with such rage her children are threatening to cut her out of their lives.
But they are not the only ones with secrets. Rose has her own demons and someone seems to have found out. Can she help the "retreaters" without losing everything she's fought so hard to build?
Cathy Kelly gives us a very readable story about learning to understand your own limitations and learning how to stand up for yourself. All the characters are well drawn and (mostly) sympathetic. Its definitely a page turner and I would happily recommend it. While it does delve into some disturbing aspects of human behaviour, it is very entertaining with a satisfying ending.
Thankyou to Netgalley and Harper Collins for the digital review copy.
Grazia and Bernard are a married couple but Bernard only sees Grazia's problems with her step-children; Keera, a successful singer, is there following her meltdown and time in rehab; India is there to find out why she keeps falling for the wrong men; Dan is simply trying to get the girl who dumped him to take him back; and Dianne is filled with such rage her children are threatening to cut her out of their lives.
But they are not the only ones with secrets. Rose has her own demons and someone seems to have found out. Can she help the "retreaters" without losing everything she's fought so hard to build?
Cathy Kelly gives us a very readable story about learning to understand your own limitations and learning how to stand up for yourself. All the characters are well drawn and (mostly) sympathetic. Its definitely a page turner and I would happily recommend it. While it does delve into some disturbing aspects of human behaviour, it is very entertaining with a satisfying ending.
Thankyou to Netgalley and Harper Collins for the digital review copy.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
⭐️4 Stars⭐️
The Island Retreat: An emotional new novel from the international #1 bestseller by Cathy Kellyis set on the alluring Greek Island of Corfu. Rose Talisman was a successful TV therapist guru and then disaster struck but now she’s opening a luxurious retreat in Corfu along with her sister and her sister’s husband. Villa Artemis is in the village of Xanthe with beautiful sea views and Rose hopes to heal people who require therapy and to renew her own career.
The first retreat held involves six guests with a week to reveal secrets, relationship issues and varied stories, meanwhile Rose is being contacted by someone who knows secrets about her past.
The story is character driven and I enjoyed getting to know each of the characters and their individual problems and I ate up all the drama. I also loved hearing about the details of setting up and the running of the retreat and found it the perfect holiday read! I really need a trip to Greece now after reading this!
Publication Date 24 February 2026
Publisher Harper Collins
Thank you so much Harper Collins Australia for an early copy of the book
The Island Retreat: An emotional new novel from the international #1 bestseller by Cathy Kellyis set on the alluring Greek Island of Corfu. Rose Talisman was a successful TV therapist guru and then disaster struck but now she’s opening a luxurious retreat in Corfu along with her sister and her sister’s husband. Villa Artemis is in the village of Xanthe with beautiful sea views and Rose hopes to heal people who require therapy and to renew her own career.
The first retreat held involves six guests with a week to reveal secrets, relationship issues and varied stories, meanwhile Rose is being contacted by someone who knows secrets about her past.
The story is character driven and I enjoyed getting to know each of the characters and their individual problems and I ate up all the drama. I also loved hearing about the details of setting up and the running of the retreat and found it the perfect holiday read! I really need a trip to Greece now after reading this!
Publication Date 24 February 2026
Publisher Harper Collins
Thank you so much Harper Collins Australia for an early copy of the book
December 31, 2025
ARC read- thanks to the publishing team and NetGalley for an advanced copy
This was a much easier, lighter read than I was anticipating. Like an episode of death in paradise but without the murder.
I loved the setting and all of the different characters. It was fun to see them all interacting.
The therapy side had some positives and some questionable moments, but it was all very self aware about not being a manual for ideal practice.
A good read to end 2025.
This was a much easier, lighter read than I was anticipating. Like an episode of death in paradise but without the murder.
I loved the setting and all of the different characters. It was fun to see them all interacting.
The therapy side had some positives and some questionable moments, but it was all very self aware about not being a manual for ideal practice.
A good read to end 2025.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Set on the island of Corfu, the once famous TV therapist Rose Talisman, has opened up a luxury retreat.
6 guests arrive, some more enthusiastic than others. Can Rose help them all in just one week?
I found this a very enjoyable and easy read. Each person's story was engaging and kept me interested. I especially liked the interactions between the guests.
It was a very straightforward read. No twists or turns but really great characters that I could visualise. I enjoyed reading this in the depths of winter but I can see this as a popular holiday read.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read an advance copy.
6 guests arrive, some more enthusiastic than others. Can Rose help them all in just one week?
I found this a very enjoyable and easy read. Each person's story was engaging and kept me interested. I especially liked the interactions between the guests.
It was a very straightforward read. No twists or turns but really great characters that I could visualise. I enjoyed reading this in the depths of winter but I can see this as a popular holiday read.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the opportunity to read an advance copy.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
3.5 ⭐️
Thank you to @harperfiction for sending me an early copy 🧡.
Rose Talisman was the nations favourite TV therapist until it all came to a sudden end after one disastrous show. Rose retreated to Corfu for a fresh start and is now opening up her own retreat with her sister and bother in-law. Six guests will stay at the luxurious Villa Artemis for one week and Rose will help each person face their anxieties and their worries and move forwards. Its not long before secrets start to show themselves … Even Rose’s.
•••••
This was an enjoyable, easy read set on the beautiful island of Corfu. I immediately wanted to be whisked away 🏝️.
A character driven novel full of fascinating personalities, some more likeable than others, all carrying their own vulnerabilities and worries. This story tackles some very serious topics, which the author approached with care and sensitivity.
I love a story that introduces us to each person and gradually reveals what they are about. This novel had chapters that would step back into the past as each character shares their story, which really added to the premise, especially as more revelations came out.
You couldn’t get a much more contrasting group of people, all started off as strangers, a bit wary, but by the end they all (or nearly all) opened up and supported each other, while navigating their own journey to heal. This was such an uplifting part to the story.
Rose’s character was very interesting. The story always hinting that she had her own secrets and flaws, which kept me reading to find out what.
Overall, an enjoyable read focusing on character journeys and emotional healing, all set in the environment of a beautiful island.
This novel brought to mind The White Lotus and Nine Perfect Strangers. Not so much for the overall plot, but more in regard to the retreat like setting and richly drawn characters.
If a character driven novel is your bag, I recommend this book.
Thank you to @harperfiction for sending me an early copy 🧡.
Rose Talisman was the nations favourite TV therapist until it all came to a sudden end after one disastrous show. Rose retreated to Corfu for a fresh start and is now opening up her own retreat with her sister and bother in-law. Six guests will stay at the luxurious Villa Artemis for one week and Rose will help each person face their anxieties and their worries and move forwards. Its not long before secrets start to show themselves … Even Rose’s.
•••••
This was an enjoyable, easy read set on the beautiful island of Corfu. I immediately wanted to be whisked away 🏝️.
A character driven novel full of fascinating personalities, some more likeable than others, all carrying their own vulnerabilities and worries. This story tackles some very serious topics, which the author approached with care and sensitivity.
I love a story that introduces us to each person and gradually reveals what they are about. This novel had chapters that would step back into the past as each character shares their story, which really added to the premise, especially as more revelations came out.
You couldn’t get a much more contrasting group of people, all started off as strangers, a bit wary, but by the end they all (or nearly all) opened up and supported each other, while navigating their own journey to heal. This was such an uplifting part to the story.
Rose’s character was very interesting. The story always hinting that she had her own secrets and flaws, which kept me reading to find out what.
Overall, an enjoyable read focusing on character journeys and emotional healing, all set in the environment of a beautiful island.
This novel brought to mind The White Lotus and Nine Perfect Strangers. Not so much for the overall plot, but more in regard to the retreat like setting and richly drawn characters.
If a character driven novel is your bag, I recommend this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Island Retreat is a beautifully crafted, sun‑soaked novel about second chances, buried truths, and the complicated stories we tell ourselves. Set against the shimmering backdrop of Corfu, the book blends emotional depth with escapist charm, creating a reading experience that feels both soothing and quietly gripping.
Rose Talisman is a wonderfully layered protagonist—still bruised from the spectacular collapse of her TV career, yet determined to rebuild something meaningful. Villa Artemis, with its wild pines, sea views, and understated luxury, feels like the perfect place for reinvention. But as Rose welcomes her six guests, each carrying their own private heartbreaks and hopes, it becomes clear that this retreat will be far more challenging than she imagined.
The dynamic between the guests is one of the novel’s greatest strengths. Their stories unfold gradually, with just the right balance of humour, vulnerability, and tension. As they write their life stories, the lines between confession and revelation blur, and the secrets they’ve tried to outrun begin to surface in unexpected ways.
Rose’s own past—carefully tucked away—casts a quiet shadow over the week. Watching her guide others toward healing while struggling to confront her own truth adds a compelling emotional thread. The author handles this with sensitivity, allowing Rose’s growth to feel earned and deeply human.
Atmospheric, wise, and uplifting, The Island Retreat is a story about the courage it takes to start over, the power of shared vulnerability, and the unexpected connections that can change everything. A perfect choice for readers who love character‑driven fiction with heart, sunshine, and a touch of mystery.
My thanks to Cathy Kelly, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Rose Talisman is a wonderfully layered protagonist—still bruised from the spectacular collapse of her TV career, yet determined to rebuild something meaningful. Villa Artemis, with its wild pines, sea views, and understated luxury, feels like the perfect place for reinvention. But as Rose welcomes her six guests, each carrying their own private heartbreaks and hopes, it becomes clear that this retreat will be far more challenging than she imagined.
The dynamic between the guests is one of the novel’s greatest strengths. Their stories unfold gradually, with just the right balance of humour, vulnerability, and tension. As they write their life stories, the lines between confession and revelation blur, and the secrets they’ve tried to outrun begin to surface in unexpected ways.
Rose’s own past—carefully tucked away—casts a quiet shadow over the week. Watching her guide others toward healing while struggling to confront her own truth adds a compelling emotional thread. The author handles this with sensitivity, allowing Rose’s growth to feel earned and deeply human.
Atmospheric, wise, and uplifting, The Island Retreat is a story about the courage it takes to start over, the power of shared vulnerability, and the unexpected connections that can change everything. A perfect choice for readers who love character‑driven fiction with heart, sunshine, and a touch of mystery.
My thanks to Cathy Kelly, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
February 2, 2026
The Island Retreat by Cathy Kelly is a warm, immersive escape that blends emotional healing with sun-drenched Greek scenery and it swept me away to Corfu from the very first page.
Set on the breathtaking island, the story centres around Rose Talisman, a once-famous TV therapist whose public fall from grace has left her bruised but quietly determined to rebuild her life.
She opens Villa Artemis with her sister and her husband, which is a luxury wellness retreat nestled among wild pines and sea views.
The retreat welcomes six very different guests, each carrying their own private heartbreaks, fears and unspoken hopes.
From reluctant participants to eager seekers of change, their journeys unfold slowly and sensitively, making each story feel authentic and deeply human.
What Cathy Kelly does so beautifully here is balance atmosphere with emotional depth.
You can almost feel the heat of the sun, the scent of the sea air, and the calm of the villa — but beneath the surface, this is a story about pain, resilience, and the courage it takes to face yourself.
Rose is a wonderfully layered protagonist: vulnerable, flawed, but quietly strong, supported by her sister Adriana and brother-in-law Christos, who help create a retreat that feels genuinely peaceful and restorative.
The group dynamics are especially well written, and I found myself empathising with every guest in different ways.
This isn’t just a sunshine-and-escapism novel — it gently reminds us that healing isn’t always comfortable, and that real change means digging deep.
Thoughtful, comforting, and emotionally engaging, The Island Retreat is perfect if you love character-driven stories set in beautiful places, with heart, hope, and just the right amount of drama.
A gorgeous, uplifting read that leaves you feeling calmer for having been there.
With thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Set on the breathtaking island, the story centres around Rose Talisman, a once-famous TV therapist whose public fall from grace has left her bruised but quietly determined to rebuild her life.
She opens Villa Artemis with her sister and her husband, which is a luxury wellness retreat nestled among wild pines and sea views.
The retreat welcomes six very different guests, each carrying their own private heartbreaks, fears and unspoken hopes.
From reluctant participants to eager seekers of change, their journeys unfold slowly and sensitively, making each story feel authentic and deeply human.
What Cathy Kelly does so beautifully here is balance atmosphere with emotional depth.
You can almost feel the heat of the sun, the scent of the sea air, and the calm of the villa — but beneath the surface, this is a story about pain, resilience, and the courage it takes to face yourself.
Rose is a wonderfully layered protagonist: vulnerable, flawed, but quietly strong, supported by her sister Adriana and brother-in-law Christos, who help create a retreat that feels genuinely peaceful and restorative.
The group dynamics are especially well written, and I found myself empathising with every guest in different ways.
This isn’t just a sunshine-and-escapism novel — it gently reminds us that healing isn’t always comfortable, and that real change means digging deep.
Thoughtful, comforting, and emotionally engaging, The Island Retreat is perfect if you love character-driven stories set in beautiful places, with heart, hope, and just the right amount of drama.
A gorgeous, uplifting read that leaves you feeling calmer for having been there.
With thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Cathy Kelly is one of my must-read authors. When I see one of her books anywhere, I know it is going to be good!
The Island Retreat was no different.
Set on one of the Greek isles, this story centres on a retreat run by a once-TV-famous therapist-guru type, Rose Talisman. This is her chance to get back into what she loves, without all the hype that surrounds the showbiz side.
Her first six guests are a motley crew comprising a famous female singer fresh out of rehab, a young man with relationship issues, an older couple with hidden secrets, a middle-aged woman with a rage she cannot contain and a younger woman who hoped this was a wellness retreat rather than something psychoanalysing her.
You have such beautiful surroundings described; it is hard not to want to visit the retreat yourself, but the guests have more than a pretty view to deal with. There are so many deeply rooted behaviours that are identified, isolated and unpicked among the six strangers, and Rose herself has to face up to her own deep, dark secret.
The story touched on so many issues, and you could feel allies being formed, and how these very different folk rallied around to support one another. Or almost all of them. There's always one, isn't there? But I'll not tell you more. You need to read it yourself!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins for an ARC.
The Island Retreat was no different.
Set on one of the Greek isles, this story centres on a retreat run by a once-TV-famous therapist-guru type, Rose Talisman. This is her chance to get back into what she loves, without all the hype that surrounds the showbiz side.
Her first six guests are a motley crew comprising a famous female singer fresh out of rehab, a young man with relationship issues, an older couple with hidden secrets, a middle-aged woman with a rage she cannot contain and a younger woman who hoped this was a wellness retreat rather than something psychoanalysing her.
You have such beautiful surroundings described; it is hard not to want to visit the retreat yourself, but the guests have more than a pretty view to deal with. There are so many deeply rooted behaviours that are identified, isolated and unpicked among the six strangers, and Rose herself has to face up to her own deep, dark secret.
The story touched on so many issues, and you could feel allies being formed, and how these very different folk rallied around to support one another. Or almost all of them. There's always one, isn't there? But I'll not tell you more. You need to read it yourself!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Harper Collins for an ARC.
February 15, 2026
Six guests with their own secret struggles and one week to work it out. This is Rose’s fresh start after ‘that’ incident - she’s offering a week long therapy retreat in Corfu. Her guests will divulge their deepest secrets and try to navigate a path forwards. From addictions, to abusive husbands and toxic exes - will their week in the sun end with plans for the future or will it crash down around them. And is it Rose who has the biggest secrets of all?
This was a fast paced intriguing read! I really enjoyed how all the characters backstories and ‘issues’ were explored. We got comprehensive sub-plots featuring all the attendees and really got to know them. This was an interesting setting - with the group therapies and gradual unfolded secrets - and kept my attention. I liked how the characters interacted and supported each other and the bonds they created.
I loved the setting of this! Sunshine is just what I needed in this rainy and dreary February. I really liked the picturesque Corfu setting and it added so much to the overall themes and setting of the book.
Overall a fast paced interesting read!
ARC copy provided by HarperCollins & NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
This was a fast paced intriguing read! I really enjoyed how all the characters backstories and ‘issues’ were explored. We got comprehensive sub-plots featuring all the attendees and really got to know them. This was an interesting setting - with the group therapies and gradual unfolded secrets - and kept my attention. I liked how the characters interacted and supported each other and the bonds they created.
I loved the setting of this! Sunshine is just what I needed in this rainy and dreary February. I really liked the picturesque Corfu setting and it added so much to the overall themes and setting of the book.
Overall a fast paced interesting read!
ARC copy provided by HarperCollins & NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
January 17, 2026
This lovely book was the perfect antidote for dark and cold January.
Synopsis :
Rose Talisman, an ex TV therapist and her sister have created the most perfect escape; a beautiful retreat on the Greek island of Corfu.
For her first retreat, there are 6 guests booked in for a week of therapy and soul searching.
What will these 6 very different people discover about themselves in that week and maybe they aren’t the only ones in Villa Artemis that are running away from their problems. Rose is banking on this new venture being a success as her troubled and secret past may just be starting to catch up with her….
A very enjoyable and engaging read with lots of interesting and quirky characters, some I really liked and others, not so much (I love feeling outraged by an obnoxious character!).
This wasn’t just a story about souvlaki, sea and sunshine but also covered some difficult themes and these were dealt with great sensitivity.
The author’s vivid descriptions of Villa Artemis, the Greek food and the scenery made me want to pack a bag and book a flight as I could picture it all so well.
Thank you so much to Harper Collins for sending me this lovely early copy and I will be thinking about this story when I head off to the Greek islands for some much needed sunshine this coming summer!
UK Publication Date : February 2026
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
The Island Retreat is an enjoyable read that kept my attention throughout, with secrets and twists revealed throughout.
I enjoyed the storyline of the book, with the idea of the retreat offering help to people who needed it. This brought a variety of characters together, who would not have interacted if it wasn't for the retreat. I loved finding out about each of the characters and their back stories and was not expecting some of what was revealed. I loved how they supported each other, especially at the end and this was really heartfelt and I was cheering them along! I was happy with how the story ended for each of them and you could see the change and progression in them all.
I really liked Rose's character, with the sense of secrecy throughout. It was good how she stood up for herself and really admirable what she did for her sister.
The setting of the story on the beautiful Greek Island was perfect. The descriptions had you almost imagining you could be there looking out over the white and blue houses. The retreat sounded so beautiful and made me want to stay.
This was a brilliant story that will make the perfect holiday read.
I enjoyed the storyline of the book, with the idea of the retreat offering help to people who needed it. This brought a variety of characters together, who would not have interacted if it wasn't for the retreat. I loved finding out about each of the characters and their back stories and was not expecting some of what was revealed. I loved how they supported each other, especially at the end and this was really heartfelt and I was cheering them along! I was happy with how the story ended for each of them and you could see the change and progression in them all.
I really liked Rose's character, with the sense of secrecy throughout. It was good how she stood up for herself and really admirable what she did for her sister.
The setting of the story on the beautiful Greek Island was perfect. The descriptions had you almost imagining you could be there looking out over the white and blue houses. The retreat sounded so beautiful and made me want to stay.
This was a brilliant story that will make the perfect holiday read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is an interesting book and one I thought I would like more than I do. It is about people, dealing with life and finding a way through so you can come out the other side a happier person. But I just found it a bit long and drawn out and have to say I did skip through some of it as it just went on and on.
But having said that the story itself is good and the characters are well written and you can just picture them in your mind. The setting is perfect for a retreat and worked well in this book. All in all a good book but I think had it been edited a bit more I may have enjoyed it more as well.
The Island Retreat: An emotional new novel from the international #1 bestseller
Cathy Kelly
HarperCollins
But having said that the story itself is good and the characters are well written and you can just picture them in your mind. The setting is perfect for a retreat and worked well in this book. All in all a good book but I think had it been edited a bit more I may have enjoyed it more as well.
The Island Retreat: An emotional new novel from the international #1 bestseller
Cathy Kelly
HarperCollins
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What a fun but sad read. I loved every second of it.
Than you to the publisher for gifting me the ARC via NetGalley.
Rose Talisman is starting a new venture, after a disastrous tv show, she’s putting together a retreat for those who are in need of a little help with their lives and so we have 6 people coming to the retreat to try and heal from past and present hurts.
We get to know each character one by one and we find out what’s been hurting them and why they’re doing what they’re doing.
It’s hard, it’s freeing and it’s exactly what they need.
Each character has their own growth throughout the book except one certain one ugh and it’s been so great seeing these strong powerful characters grow into themselves and finally see what’s been hurting them and finding a way to move on.
It’s been great watching them on their journey, I was sat from the first to last page, I didn’t want to stop reading.
This author gave us a beautiful, relatable story. The writing, the characters, the plot, it was all brilliant! I would love to see these characters back on the island a year later to see where they’re at.
Than you to the publisher for gifting me the ARC via NetGalley.
Rose Talisman is starting a new venture, after a disastrous tv show, she’s putting together a retreat for those who are in need of a little help with their lives and so we have 6 people coming to the retreat to try and heal from past and present hurts.
We get to know each character one by one and we find out what’s been hurting them and why they’re doing what they’re doing.
It’s hard, it’s freeing and it’s exactly what they need.
Each character has their own growth throughout the book except one certain one ugh and it’s been so great seeing these strong powerful characters grow into themselves and finally see what’s been hurting them and finding a way to move on.
It’s been great watching them on their journey, I was sat from the first to last page, I didn’t want to stop reading.
This author gave us a beautiful, relatable story. The writing, the characters, the plot, it was all brilliant! I would love to see these characters back on the island a year later to see where they’re at.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Rose hosted a highly successful therapy TV show,in the USA, but walked away after a shocking incident . Now she's on the island of Corfu and she has set up a therapy retreat with her sister and her husband. The first retreat includes an interesting mix of individuals with a diverse range of issues. Over the course of the week, the beautiful island resort will see major changes for almost all the participants, with a few surprises along the way.. Rose has a few secrets of her own and the week takes a sinister turn when an anonymous source threatens to reveal them on social media.
I love the characters in Cathy Kelly and these are no exception. The retreat gives the perfect opportunity to put together a cast of wonderfully flawed characters, with an interesting range of issues and back stories. The setting was well described and i could almost feel the sun shining on me as I read.. I loved this novel and it would be a perfect holiday read, although I equally enjoyed it on a snowy January day! Thoroughly recommended.
I love the characters in Cathy Kelly and these are no exception. The retreat gives the perfect opportunity to put together a cast of wonderfully flawed characters, with an interesting range of issues and back stories. The setting was well described and i could almost feel the sun shining on me as I read.. I loved this novel and it would be a perfect holiday read, although I equally enjoyed it on a snowy January day! Thoroughly recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I'm sorry to say I didn't enjoy this.
Six people sign up for a therapy retreat.
Each have their own problems, and we hear throughout the book the unravelling.
I really liked the characters Jeera and India.
I found Dan to be very weak. He definitely needed to have his eyes opened.
Then there is Bernard and his wife Grazia. He only came along for his wife. He was the least likeable. I found him to be obnoxious, rude, and arrogant. I must admit that when his secret is revealed, I did laugh. Poor Grazia.
Then there is Dianne. It's hard to like her at the beginning as she is just so angry all the time. Understandable when we find out what she has been bottling up for years.
The retreat sounds idyllic. Set on the island of Corfu and run by Rose, her sister and brother-in-law. But even Rose as the therapist has her own demons.
I have read the Sisterhood, which I enjoyed immensely. I won't give up on this author as I'm sure this was probably a one-off for me.
Thanks to Netgalley and HarperCollins UK for the invitation to read this in return for an honest review.
Six people sign up for a therapy retreat.
Each have their own problems, and we hear throughout the book the unravelling.
I really liked the characters Jeera and India.
I found Dan to be very weak. He definitely needed to have his eyes opened.
Then there is Bernard and his wife Grazia. He only came along for his wife. He was the least likeable. I found him to be obnoxious, rude, and arrogant. I must admit that when his secret is revealed, I did laugh. Poor Grazia.
Then there is Dianne. It's hard to like her at the beginning as she is just so angry all the time. Understandable when we find out what she has been bottling up for years.
The retreat sounds idyllic. Set on the island of Corfu and run by Rose, her sister and brother-in-law. But even Rose as the therapist has her own demons.
I have read the Sisterhood, which I enjoyed immensely. I won't give up on this author as I'm sure this was probably a one-off for me.
Thanks to Netgalley and HarperCollins UK for the invitation to read this in return for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you @netgalley and @cathykellybooks for sending me an invite to read this eArc.
Rose Talisman is looking for a fresh start. Five years after her show as a tv therapist ends, she is looking for a fresh start and she is hanging her hopes on an healing retreat on the island of Corfu with her sister and partner.
Enter the six guests. Each comes with a lot of baggage. Keera is running from addiction, India is trying to work out the direction of her life, Dan is working out his relationship with his ex, Grazia and Bernard have issues in their marriage and Dianne is being made to attend to deal with her unexplained rage. Can Rose help them move forward?
The premise is a pretty simple one, and is a pretty pleasant read. It has some funny parts, but also deals with some heavy subjects and there is some mystery included when it comes to the guests secrets.
I would recommend this if you wanted a nice, meaningful read in parts.
Rose Talisman is looking for a fresh start. Five years after her show as a tv therapist ends, she is looking for a fresh start and she is hanging her hopes on an healing retreat on the island of Corfu with her sister and partner.
Enter the six guests. Each comes with a lot of baggage. Keera is running from addiction, India is trying to work out the direction of her life, Dan is working out his relationship with his ex, Grazia and Bernard have issues in their marriage and Dianne is being made to attend to deal with her unexplained rage. Can Rose help them move forward?
The premise is a pretty simple one, and is a pretty pleasant read. It has some funny parts, but also deals with some heavy subjects and there is some mystery included when it comes to the guests secrets.
I would recommend this if you wanted a nice, meaningful read in parts.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was such a lovely read.
With the never ending rain in January, it was so lovely to be taken away to sunnier climes by reading this book with the gorgeous backdrop of Corfu.
It was such an interesting concept that all these characters were brought together through the retreat, and were from different walks of life with different reasons why they were there.
Throughout the course of the book we see them delve into their own pasts, and build strong bonds with one another, supporting each other in making changes.
And of course, there is a mystery around the woman that brought them together, Rose - a once famous TV therapist who has been away from the public eye after an incident on her show several years earlier. There is a mystery around her and someone who is claiming to know her deepest darkest secrets.
I thought this was a great read and really enjoyed it.
Thank you to NetGalley, Harper Collins and Cathy Kelly for this ARC in return for an unbiased review
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book. 4 Stars. I love Cathy Kelly’s books and this did not disappoint. Six guests book into a retreat in Corfu run by therapist Rose Talisman. Five years before Rose’s TV career came to a spectacular and abrupt end and she disappeared from public life. She has set up Villa Artemis as a retreat with her sister and brother-in-law and these are their first guests. There is one week for Rose to find out their secrets and help them to move forwards. I really liked the storytelling of each character so we knew why there were at the retreat and I liked how they interacted with each other – some receptive to talking and opening up and wanting to change, others trying to bury their secrets and not wanting to address their issues. It seems as if someone is targeting Rose by sending anonymous messages threatening to destroy her career.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Loved reading this latest from Cathy Kelly set on the Greek island of Corfu with a premise that was right up my street! Sorting out some facts from fiction especially in the instagram world.
Rose is having a new start within a five star sumptuous retreat she has created with her sister, for a select number of guests for some group therapy. Her previous career as a tv therapist ended suddenly five years ago, can she make a new start to continue to help others with therapy and what is she hiding?!
The six guests are all fascinating with very varied backgrounds, with each stuck in their lives and unable to make moves to go forward.
The setting sounded gorgeous and easy to visualise and be transported there with the sounds and smells of Greece and the Mediterranean.
Well written and thought out.
A very enjoyable book and interesting absorbing read!! Hugely and highly recommended.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins for the early read! Loved it!
Rose is having a new start within a five star sumptuous retreat she has created with her sister, for a select number of guests for some group therapy. Her previous career as a tv therapist ended suddenly five years ago, can she make a new start to continue to help others with therapy and what is she hiding?!
The six guests are all fascinating with very varied backgrounds, with each stuck in their lives and unable to make moves to go forward.
The setting sounded gorgeous and easy to visualise and be transported there with the sounds and smells of Greece and the Mediterranean.
Well written and thought out.
A very enjoyable book and interesting absorbing read!! Hugely and highly recommended.
Thank you to NetGalley and Harper Collins for the early read! Loved it!
January 27, 2026
Cathy Kelly is so good at creating characters we care about. And there are so many in this novel with different stories yet they connect on a deep level after opening up to lead character Rose Talisman on a retreat in Greece. A former talk show host (like Jeremy Kyle!) a tragic incident disgraces her media career. Lost and questioning life she sets up a retreat with her adopted sister Adriana. I found the premise very like Liane Moriarty's Nine perfect strangers but less dramatic and with more heart. Themes of abuse, misogyny and love are cleverly woven into the story.
And you will get drawn into their drama as it happens in everyday life. Kelly keeps the intrigue going with a mystery blackmailer. I liked this a lot.
Especially India and Dan's story. Cheers to the author and NetGalley for the e ARC. Denise x
And you will get drawn into their drama as it happens in everyday life. Kelly keeps the intrigue going with a mystery blackmailer. I liked this a lot.
Especially India and Dan's story. Cheers to the author and NetGalley for the e ARC. Denise x
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Five years ago Rose's TV show imploded around her. She had also lost the love of her life. She has spent the last five years in Corfu building a therapy retreat with her sister and brother in law. They are just about to have the first group and she is nervous as there is so much riding on this.
The group consists of India, a thirty something women who makes bad choices. Keera, a singer who is burnt out and dominated by her mother. Dan, whose (ex) girlfriend is a complete mess but he feels he is the only one who can be there for her. Dianne, an Aussie who has serious anger issues. Grazia and Sir Bernard complete the group.
Rose knows that she has challenges on her hands and has to navigate each of the personal crisis's as well as dealing with her own.
I read most of this in one sitting staying up way past my bedtime to finish it. Really enjoyed it.
The group consists of India, a thirty something women who makes bad choices. Keera, a singer who is burnt out and dominated by her mother. Dan, whose (ex) girlfriend is a complete mess but he feels he is the only one who can be there for her. Dianne, an Aussie who has serious anger issues. Grazia and Sir Bernard complete the group.
Rose knows that she has challenges on her hands and has to navigate each of the personal crisis's as well as dealing with her own.
I read most of this in one sitting staying up way past my bedtime to finish it. Really enjoyed it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was asked by NetGalley to review this book.
I am late to the table for Cathy Kelly but so glad I have now been introduced to this author.
The story begins with six people being invited to a retreat in Corfu Greece, run by a television therapist called Rose.
Rose has been out of TV for about 5 years so this is a big thing for Rose and her future - she needs to help the six by facing secrets and move forward positively, but Rose secrets could be exposed as she helps the six. The reader can feel for these six and Rose as the face their problems, move on with their lives. There is hope, the ability to move forward and second chances in life too
Beautifully written and a really lovely read. Due for publication 26 February - this will be a great sunbed read this summer.
I am late to the table for Cathy Kelly but so glad I have now been introduced to this author.
The story begins with six people being invited to a retreat in Corfu Greece, run by a television therapist called Rose.
Rose has been out of TV for about 5 years so this is a big thing for Rose and her future - she needs to help the six by facing secrets and move forward positively, but Rose secrets could be exposed as she helps the six. The reader can feel for these six and Rose as the face their problems, move on with their lives. There is hope, the ability to move forward and second chances in life too
Beautifully written and a really lovely read. Due for publication 26 February - this will be a great sunbed read this summer.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book touches on very sensitive and difficult themes. It manages them in the main in a mature and empowering manner. I enjoyed the general story and in the main the characters are excellent, with a lot going on for each character, the story at times felt jumpy and difficult to keep up with who is being spoken about at the time. There is a good underlying story whilst all of the other stories are ongoing. Parts of the story I wish were a little different at the end, there’s a strong sense of sisterhood, empowering women, and the view of being able to do things on our own - this is at risk of being lost or undermined with the way the ending happens. But with that said, it is a happy ending, which feels necessary in this story! I would definitely recommend this book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I loved this book, I knew it would be good if Cathy Kelly wrote it!
Rose Talisman is an ex-celeb therapist who, years later, has built a retreat on the island of Corfu with her sister and brother in law, to start hosting therapy retreats.
In the first retreat, 6 guests bring their secrets to the group therapy sessions and I found their stories of love, betrayal, abuse and self discovery to be very believable.
I was totally engrossed in the journey of each character and found this book to be an easy to read page turner. It made me think about a thing or two too. I would highly recommend this book, its release date it 26 Feb, not long now 😍
Thank you to @netgalley and @harpercollinsuk fo the ARC copy in return for my honest review.
Rose Talisman is an ex-celeb therapist who, years later, has built a retreat on the island of Corfu with her sister and brother in law, to start hosting therapy retreats.
In the first retreat, 6 guests bring their secrets to the group therapy sessions and I found their stories of love, betrayal, abuse and self discovery to be very believable.
I was totally engrossed in the journey of each character and found this book to be an easy to read page turner. It made me think about a thing or two too. I would highly recommend this book, its release date it 26 Feb, not long now 😍
Thank you to @netgalley and @harpercollinsuk fo the ARC copy in return for my honest review.
February 14, 2026
A lovely read, it definitely made me look forward to summer while reading this in February!
It will also be a great holiday read.
Rose Talisman is about to host her first retreat in Corfu and her first retreat since her TV therapy show came to an abrupt end in LA five years earlier.
She’s nervous and excited, can she pull this off and restart her career? There is so much at stake.
Six people are signed up to the retreat, half are there because they are fully committed to needing and making changes, the rest because their families have encouraged them to attend. It’s all going to be life changing.
A wonderful read, set in the most fabulous Greek backdrop. Highly recommended.
Thanks to NetGalley for the early copy.
It will also be a great holiday read.
Rose Talisman is about to host her first retreat in Corfu and her first retreat since her TV therapy show came to an abrupt end in LA five years earlier.
She’s nervous and excited, can she pull this off and restart her career? There is so much at stake.
Six people are signed up to the retreat, half are there because they are fully committed to needing and making changes, the rest because their families have encouraged them to attend. It’s all going to be life changing.
A wonderful read, set in the most fabulous Greek backdrop. Highly recommended.
Thanks to NetGalley for the early copy.
Read
December 20, 2025If Cathy Kelly's stellar writing career ever falters she could always become a therapist.
Showing empathy and wisdom, Kelly introduced me (and many others I'm sure) to the concept of limerence, as former TV therapist Rose gets to work on the first clients at her island retreat.
We sit back and wait for the clients to arrive and for their stories to unfurl, while luxuriating in the Corfu sunshine and the high end decor of Rose's villa.
I love the way that Kelly doesn't allow Rose 100% success, keeping it real. And Rose herself has an intriguing back story.
Filled with charm and commonsense, I loved it.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the advance digital copy.
Showing empathy and wisdom, Kelly introduced me (and many others I'm sure) to the concept of limerence, as former TV therapist Rose gets to work on the first clients at her island retreat.
We sit back and wait for the clients to arrive and for their stories to unfurl, while luxuriating in the Corfu sunshine and the high end decor of Rose's villa.
I love the way that Kelly doesn't allow Rose 100% success, keeping it real. And Rose herself has an intriguing back story.
Filled with charm and commonsense, I loved it.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publishers for the advance digital copy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Six people are invited to a retreat on the island of Corfu run by Rose Talisman - a TV therapist who has been out of the limelight for 5 years.
In a week she has to help them face their secrets and find a way to move forward. Her future is staked on the success of the retreat.
However as she helps the participants, there are threats that her own secrets could be exposed.
The backgrounds of each of the participants are gradually unravelled with each looking to rewrite their futures. The dynamics between them are beautifully drawn and you empathise with their dilemmas.
A story of second chances, hope, connections and the courage to move on.
Heartwarming.
In a week she has to help them face their secrets and find a way to move forward. Her future is staked on the success of the retreat.
However as she helps the participants, there are threats that her own secrets could be exposed.
The backgrounds of each of the participants are gradually unravelled with each looking to rewrite their futures. The dynamics between them are beautifully drawn and you empathise with their dilemmas.
A story of second chances, hope, connections and the courage to move on.
Heartwarming.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Island Retreat by Cathy Kelly was an enjoyable, easy read with likeable enough characters and a gorgeous hot island setting that felt like a welcome escape from cold, dreary weather. I appreciated the warmth and comfort-book feel, and it’s the kind of novel that’s easy to sink into for a few relaxed reading sessions. However, I did struggle a bit with the pacing, which felt very speedy considering the emotional depth and complexity of the stories being told. Some plotlines could have benefited from more space to breathe. Overall, a pleasant and escapist read, but one that didn’t quite reach its full potential for me.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Given the title of the book the contents could not be bettered.
The concept was good, the setting excellent, the main characters well thought out, the back stories of all of the characters were superb.
Cathy Kelly has a vivid imagination, and is certainly well read or excellently guided in the therapy required in the circumstances encountered,
This book could almost have been written as a training manual for therapists.
What more can I say I loved it.
My thanks to the author for the hours of enjoyment that the book has brought me, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The concept was good, the setting excellent, the main characters well thought out, the back stories of all of the characters were superb.
Cathy Kelly has a vivid imagination, and is certainly well read or excellently guided in the therapy required in the circumstances encountered,
This book could almost have been written as a training manual for therapists.
What more can I say I loved it.
My thanks to the author for the hours of enjoyment that the book has brought me, I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I’ve been a Cathy Kelly fan since reading her first book almost 30 years ago (!!).
When I initially read the premise of The Island Retreat I worried it would be like a few other well know books about retreats (none of which I enjoyed). Fortunately that wasn’t the case.
I loved how the characters developed, especially India and Grazia, and the friendships that developed as the retreat progressed.
If you’re looking for a book to escape the world for a few hours, this would be a great choice.
Thank you to Netgalley and HarperCollins Australia for the digital review copy.
4.5 stars.
When I initially read the premise of The Island Retreat I worried it would be like a few other well know books about retreats (none of which I enjoyed). Fortunately that wasn’t the case.
I loved how the characters developed, especially India and Grazia, and the friendships that developed as the retreat progressed.
If you’re looking for a book to escape the world for a few hours, this would be a great choice.
Thank you to Netgalley and HarperCollins Australia for the digital review copy.
4.5 stars.
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