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When Time Comes
Athena can't avert her eyes. Alex Dane is back in Greece. Her mind wanders in time, six years ago, to the island of Rhodes. Three lustful days with him and a precious gift he left her with. All she needs is a leap of faith, but will he fly? Dare they dream again "When Time Comes"?
- GenresRomance
114 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 23, 2015
1 person is currently reading
589 people want to read
About the author
Cat Nicolaou
11 books44 followersCat Nicolaou lives with her family and many pets on a small island in Greece. She grew up surrounded by crystal clear blue waters and beautiful beaches. Living in such a peaceful area, she enjoys the idyllic setting around her. It is therefore not surprising that she likes to write romantic stories. Strolling by the seaside is where she gets all her inspiration. As an ever-romantic herself, she likes writing and reading stories with a happy ending, though she does torment her characters before they find a happy resolution.
Not being one of those authors who have been writing since childhood, it came as a real surprise to the people around her when she finally decided to do it. But "When Time Comes", life has a way to show you what needs to be done and she finally realised that she had to put her stories on paper and let people know her.
The greatest joy of writing for her is seeing where the characters will take her every time she starts a story.
Besides spending time with books, she likes drinking coffee like a maniac and listening to music. She also enjoys riding her motorcycle because it makes her feel free.
Her debut novella "When Time Comes" was published in February 2015. A story set on the island of Rhodes where a famous rock star and an artist find love that can last forever. “When Time Comes” has been translated in Spanish with the title “Cuando Llegue La Hora” and in Italian with the title "Quando sara il momento".
Her second book "Life, Love and Death" was published in February 2016. A collection of eighteen short stories of Romance, Crime, Horror and Comedy.
Cat Nicolaou is also the co-writer of “Romantics Anonymous”, a short story published in the “Hearts and Other Dead Things” anthology by Cake & Quill Writers Group.
A special thanks to my editor, Catherine Lenderi http://catsedits.weebly.com/
Not being one of those authors who have been writing since childhood, it came as a real surprise to the people around her when she finally decided to do it. But "When Time Comes", life has a way to show you what needs to be done and she finally realised that she had to put her stories on paper and let people know her.
The greatest joy of writing for her is seeing where the characters will take her every time she starts a story.
Besides spending time with books, she likes drinking coffee like a maniac and listening to music. She also enjoys riding her motorcycle because it makes her feel free.
Her debut novella "When Time Comes" was published in February 2015. A story set on the island of Rhodes where a famous rock star and an artist find love that can last forever. “When Time Comes” has been translated in Spanish with the title “Cuando Llegue La Hora” and in Italian with the title "Quando sara il momento".
Her second book "Life, Love and Death" was published in February 2016. A collection of eighteen short stories of Romance, Crime, Horror and Comedy.
Cat Nicolaou is also the co-writer of “Romantics Anonymous”, a short story published in the “Hearts and Other Dead Things” anthology by Cake & Quill Writers Group.
A special thanks to my editor, Catherine Lenderi http://catsedits.weebly.com/
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
September 7, 2016
They met six years prior in Greece. Athena was living her greatest fantasy come true, here she was, a little down on her luck and taking a carefree weekend to see her favorite rockstar, Alex Dane, in concert. But there he was, on the same ship as her, alone, captivating and so human.
Their weekend affair was a slice of heaven, yet over too soon. When Athena left for home, she knew no man would ever touch her heart like Alex Dane. He had given her the gift of passion and romance, little did she know he had also given her the most precious gift of all.
Now Alex is in performing his last concert and it will be in Greece, near Athena’s home and she knows she must see him one more time, if only to finally break the spell he has cast over her heart, but hopefully to show him what became of the gift he had unknowingly given her.
Some romances are erotic, some are filled with action and hardened characters. Cat Nicolaou’s When Time Comes is sweet, spicy and devastatingly romantic. A chance meeting that blooms into more is nipped in the bud, but the roots still grow, just waiting to be nurtured again. A short read long on emotion and a few surprises, Athena and Alex have a second chance at love and getting it right, will they take it? Is it too late?
Sometimes you just need a quick read with all the romance condensed into fewer, very meaningful pages, avoiding much angst and fewer mistakes. Cat Nicolaou has created a beautiful tale that will whisk you away to Greece on the power of love.
I received this copy from Cat Nicolaou in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: March 28, 2015
Publisher: Cat Nicolaou
Genre: Romance
Print Length: 114 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Their weekend affair was a slice of heaven, yet over too soon. When Athena left for home, she knew no man would ever touch her heart like Alex Dane. He had given her the gift of passion and romance, little did she know he had also given her the most precious gift of all.
Now Alex is in performing his last concert and it will be in Greece, near Athena’s home and she knows she must see him one more time, if only to finally break the spell he has cast over her heart, but hopefully to show him what became of the gift he had unknowingly given her.
Some romances are erotic, some are filled with action and hardened characters. Cat Nicolaou’s When Time Comes is sweet, spicy and devastatingly romantic. A chance meeting that blooms into more is nipped in the bud, but the roots still grow, just waiting to be nurtured again. A short read long on emotion and a few surprises, Athena and Alex have a second chance at love and getting it right, will they take it? Is it too late?
Sometimes you just need a quick read with all the romance condensed into fewer, very meaningful pages, avoiding much angst and fewer mistakes. Cat Nicolaou has created a beautiful tale that will whisk you away to Greece on the power of love.
I received this copy from Cat Nicolaou in exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: March 28, 2015
Publisher: Cat Nicolaou
Genre: Romance
Print Length: 114 pages
Available from: Amazon
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
October 20, 2016
We meet our main character, Athena, as she is having a flashback to her younger days when she first met her idol Alex Danes. Alex Danes is a pop star who is having a concert on the island of Rhodes, and of course Athena finds a way to attend. She soon happily meets Alex making her way to the show by the ferry, and that's where the beautiful romance begins.
Athena and Alex are really sweet, but it was a little too much for me at times. The 'insta-love' type of romance isn't always for me, but somehow it wasn't a complete downfall for me while reading either. It's all very fast-paced and romantic.
I appreciated Cat Nicolaou's writing. I like how she managed to switch POVs within each chapter and it all blended well together to tell this story. Her characters were interesting enough to keep me reading, and their story wraps up nicely. There was a bit of a twist which brought some drama to keep it interesting. . . All ends well though. If you're in the mood for a light, sweet romance then I recommend you try this book out!
Athena and Alex are really sweet, but it was a little too much for me at times. The 'insta-love' type of romance isn't always for me, but somehow it wasn't a complete downfall for me while reading either. It's all very fast-paced and romantic.
I appreciated Cat Nicolaou's writing. I like how she managed to switch POVs within each chapter and it all blended well together to tell this story. Her characters were interesting enough to keep me reading, and their story wraps up nicely. There was a bit of a twist which brought some drama to keep it interesting. . . All ends well though. If you're in the mood for a light, sweet romance then I recommend you try this book out!
May 30, 2015
To paraphrase Rosalind Russell: Books are a banquet and most people are starving to death.
I say that because I have many friends who absolutely refuse to read anything outside a specific genre. For example: They'll happily go to other planets with some authors but will steadfastly refuse to walk the dark streets of a detective novel; they'll read about vampires long into the night but won't pick up a Steampunk book unless forced to at gunpoint.
Because they won't step outside their reading comfort zones, they miss a huge number of very talented authors who have very interesting things to say about life, love and the human condition in general.
Cat Nicolaou is one of those authors, in my opinion, and in her romance novella 'When Time Comes' she has written an intriguing story about an art teacher whose life has not gone as she'd hoped it would and a singer she has worshiped from afar for a decade. They meet on a ferryboat where he is traveling incognito while on his way to a concert on the Greek island of Rhodes and... well, I'm not going to spoil this delightful little book by telling you any more about it. That would be unfair to you as a reader and to Nicolaou as a writer.
I will say that, in my opinion, what makes 'When Time Comes' more than a simple story about a fling with someone famous are the subtexts that Nicolaou has woven into her narrative. The art teacher thinks she is nothing more than an ordinary person: She has no idea that she could be anything more than that to anyone else, least of all a singer with a global reputation. The singer, used to being exploited by fans and the press, seems unprepared to actually feel anything more than lust for this woman. During their brief time together it appears - on the surface - as though they communicate well but, in reality, their own insecurities and their assumptions about each other keep them from saying anything meaningful.
Most of us have been in that situation at some point in our lives and because we have I think readers will find that both the teacher and the singer seem "real" in their inability to express their true feelings to one another and equally "real" when it comes to the reasoning behind the decisions they make.
Nicolaou has a light touch even though she is dealing with some difficult subjects: She does not beat her readers over the head with complex psychological justifications for the actions of her characters, for example, nor does she push any agendas down their throats. She purely and simply tells a story of two people at different points in their lives who meet for a brief time. To be sure, there are some steamy scenes in the book but not many, certainly not enough to classify 'When Time Comes' as erotica, and I think they add a layer of richness to the narrative.
I have no trouble recommending this novella to romance fans and to anyone else who is unafraid to step outside their genre comfort zone for just a bit.
I say that because I have many friends who absolutely refuse to read anything outside a specific genre. For example: They'll happily go to other planets with some authors but will steadfastly refuse to walk the dark streets of a detective novel; they'll read about vampires long into the night but won't pick up a Steampunk book unless forced to at gunpoint.
Because they won't step outside their reading comfort zones, they miss a huge number of very talented authors who have very interesting things to say about life, love and the human condition in general.
Cat Nicolaou is one of those authors, in my opinion, and in her romance novella 'When Time Comes' she has written an intriguing story about an art teacher whose life has not gone as she'd hoped it would and a singer she has worshiped from afar for a decade. They meet on a ferryboat where he is traveling incognito while on his way to a concert on the Greek island of Rhodes and... well, I'm not going to spoil this delightful little book by telling you any more about it. That would be unfair to you as a reader and to Nicolaou as a writer.
I will say that, in my opinion, what makes 'When Time Comes' more than a simple story about a fling with someone famous are the subtexts that Nicolaou has woven into her narrative. The art teacher thinks she is nothing more than an ordinary person: She has no idea that she could be anything more than that to anyone else, least of all a singer with a global reputation. The singer, used to being exploited by fans and the press, seems unprepared to actually feel anything more than lust for this woman. During their brief time together it appears - on the surface - as though they communicate well but, in reality, their own insecurities and their assumptions about each other keep them from saying anything meaningful.
Most of us have been in that situation at some point in our lives and because we have I think readers will find that both the teacher and the singer seem "real" in their inability to express their true feelings to one another and equally "real" when it comes to the reasoning behind the decisions they make.
Nicolaou has a light touch even though she is dealing with some difficult subjects: She does not beat her readers over the head with complex psychological justifications for the actions of her characters, for example, nor does she push any agendas down their throats. She purely and simply tells a story of two people at different points in their lives who meet for a brief time. To be sure, there are some steamy scenes in the book but not many, certainly not enough to classify 'When Time Comes' as erotica, and I think they add a layer of richness to the narrative.
I have no trouble recommending this novella to romance fans and to anyone else who is unafraid to step outside their genre comfort zone for just a bit.
February 25, 2015
'This is the story of' is a beginning to a review that will not do the book justice. But this is the story of Athena, unhappy and unemployed, whose life changes because she finds a job in teaching art, something she adores.
Though it may not appear to have much to do with the story, it is a boost to her confidence and the reason she decides to treat herself to a concert starring Alex Dane. Good looking rock star, one time fling, and quite possibly, something much more.
Young Athena met Alex many years ago and a relationship started that never got the chance to properly develop. Now, faced with meeting him again, Athena dares to dream that now the time is right.
The romance is sweet, the steamy scenes are very.... steamy... and the characters are oh-so-bad at communicating. As much as this is a romance, it's also a tale of how and why such perfect relationships can go wrong.
I would have liked to see more of both characters in different situations, so I could get to know them better. This wouldn't help the story along in any way, but since I grew quite fond of them, I wasn't quite ready to leave them yet.
Though it may not appear to have much to do with the story, it is a boost to her confidence and the reason she decides to treat herself to a concert starring Alex Dane. Good looking rock star, one time fling, and quite possibly, something much more.
Young Athena met Alex many years ago and a relationship started that never got the chance to properly develop. Now, faced with meeting him again, Athena dares to dream that now the time is right.
The romance is sweet, the steamy scenes are very.... steamy... and the characters are oh-so-bad at communicating. As much as this is a romance, it's also a tale of how and why such perfect relationships can go wrong.
I would have liked to see more of both characters in different situations, so I could get to know them better. This wouldn't help the story along in any way, but since I grew quite fond of them, I wasn't quite ready to leave them yet.
June 2, 2015
This was a dreamy, and very sweet book about a girl who gets to meet her favorite rock star! Haven't we all dreamed about that? This book is set in Greece, and I just loved imagining the well described coastal scenes and boat rides. What a nice little escape!! The main characters are in their 30s and that was a nice change. I enjoyed their interactions and romantic weekend together. It's amazing what can happen when you are at the right place at the right time. A chance meeting turned mini-love story.
It seemed like there were parts of the story that could have been developed more, and I wanted more detail and more story, but other than that I really enjoyed this book. :)
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
It seemed like there were parts of the story that could have been developed more, and I wanted more detail and more story, but other than that I really enjoyed this book. :)
*ARC generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review*
February 17, 2016
We all wish that we could have a conversation, a kiss, a one night stand or even marry our celebrity crush. Unfortunately, only a handful of people have had a chance to actually exchange vows with their famous crushes like Ashton Kutcher or Kelly Preston. In other words, we all wonder what it would feel like to be like one of those people who actually experienced a real good physical company with a famous person that they always admired. From my point of view, the experience is probably the equivalent of winning the lottery. I’m pretty sure that Athena from Cat Nicolaou’s “When Time Comes” felt the same way after she spent three days with her celebrity crush.
The story beings when Athena hears that Alex Dane, a musician is coming to Greece for a concert. It is here that Athena has a flashback to when she first met Alex six years ago on a ship. At that point in her life, she really wasn’t living an ideal life; she was unemployed, was forced to move back into her parents’ apartment and she really didn’t see her future as a bright one. But her hard life suddenly became a distant memory when she met the man of her dreams. The three days with him was a real life refreshment for Athena but three days is only three days and Alex ends up leaving Greece. Once the story returns to present time, Athena must do what she can to meet Alex again, hope he remembers her and hope that he is willing to try to get reacquainted and to take her love for him seriously.
When I first started reading this novella, I really sensed that this was going to be like “A Star Is Born” with Barbara Streisand and Kris Kristofferson. Thankfully I was wrong. Now there are a few similarities but since there are only a few, you can’t really compare the two. I really admired Cat Nicolaou’s writing too. She’s not just good at creating characters; she’s also wonderful at describing the locations of the story. I’ve never been to Greece but just reading this story makes me want to visit there. Also, I can really identify with Athena. Not just because she wants to marry her celebrity crush but because of the first meeting she has with Alex. Last year, my father developed an early stage of leukemia and I was of course going through a lot of stress. Then just a little bit after my father made a full recovery, a friend of mine who I hadn’t seen in years was back in town. She and I spent the whole Labor Day weekend together and it was a holiday weekend I’ll never forget because it was a real life refreshment for me. Just like how Alex did with Athena during their first meeting. This story is definitely recommended by me as a real literary refreshment.
The story beings when Athena hears that Alex Dane, a musician is coming to Greece for a concert. It is here that Athena has a flashback to when she first met Alex six years ago on a ship. At that point in her life, she really wasn’t living an ideal life; she was unemployed, was forced to move back into her parents’ apartment and she really didn’t see her future as a bright one. But her hard life suddenly became a distant memory when she met the man of her dreams. The three days with him was a real life refreshment for Athena but three days is only three days and Alex ends up leaving Greece. Once the story returns to present time, Athena must do what she can to meet Alex again, hope he remembers her and hope that he is willing to try to get reacquainted and to take her love for him seriously.
When I first started reading this novella, I really sensed that this was going to be like “A Star Is Born” with Barbara Streisand and Kris Kristofferson. Thankfully I was wrong. Now there are a few similarities but since there are only a few, you can’t really compare the two. I really admired Cat Nicolaou’s writing too. She’s not just good at creating characters; she’s also wonderful at describing the locations of the story. I’ve never been to Greece but just reading this story makes me want to visit there. Also, I can really identify with Athena. Not just because she wants to marry her celebrity crush but because of the first meeting she has with Alex. Last year, my father developed an early stage of leukemia and I was of course going through a lot of stress. Then just a little bit after my father made a full recovery, a friend of mine who I hadn’t seen in years was back in town. She and I spent the whole Labor Day weekend together and it was a holiday weekend I’ll never forget because it was a real life refreshment for me. Just like how Alex did with Athena during their first meeting. This story is definitely recommended by me as a real literary refreshment.
March 11, 2015
this is a beautifully written debut novella that pours love at first sight from every word. No matter how long it takes us to find The One this story asks us to never stop looking and always be aware that the next stranger we see could be that person. It shows us that no matter what a persons situation or circumstance if we truly believe in something or someone kismet will find a way to bring you together. In real life that fairy tale really can be just around the next corner and the story of the two characters in this tale gives us everything and more that we could ever want from happily ever after, even when it could so easily have fallen apart. Both of the central characters are well formed and cohesive and each brings the necessary flair to the story to give it credence with just a little extra surprise at the end to bring a smile to the face of the reader
I received an e-copy of the novella from the author in exchange for an honest review
I received an e-copy of the novella from the author in exchange for an honest review
July 13, 2015
this is a beautifully written debut novella that pours love at first sight from every word. No matter how long it takes us to find The One this story asks us to never stop looking and always be aware that the next stranger we see could be that person. It shows us that no matter what a persons situation or circumstance if we truly believe in something or someone kismet will find a way to bring you together. In real life that fairy tale really can be just around the next corner and the story of the two characters in this tale gives us everything and more that we could ever want from happily ever after, even when it could so easily have fallen apart. Both of the central characters are well formed and cohesive and each brings the necessary flair to the story to give it credence with just a little extra surprise at the end to bring a smile to the face of the reader
I received an e-copy of the novella from the author in exchange for an honest review
I received an e-copy of the novella from the author in exchange for an honest review
March 18, 2015
What a fun read! I loved following the protagonist Athena's thoughts and travels. An artist, she sets out on a whim, to follow a dream of seeing a man (famous no less!. The story takes us through the gorgeous Greek Islands. The novella has unexpected plot twists that kept me engaged. I highly recommend this book!
October 18, 2016
First, I would like to thank the author for the complimentary copy of When Times Comes with bonus short story, Sealed By A Kiss!
Author Cat Nicolauo will fuel your love for love with these syrupy sweet stories about a second-chance romance (time has passed and now they have a second chance) and a second-love (because the first time around, it didn’t work out).
Let’s discuss When Time Comes, my favorite of the two short stories.
When Times Comes by Cat Nicolauo is a fun second-chance romance novella with a happily-ever-after about a Rock Star (Alex Dane) and his “number one fan” (Athena). They meet on a ferry ride during his summer tour and spend an intense three days together.
Fast forward to six years later when Alex Dane is back touring and Athena attends his concert. She wonders if he will he remember her and if they can have their second chance at romance.
I really liked this sweet romance and was happy to see Athena and Alex get their happily-ever-after. This novella is sure to delight romantics-at-heart with its insta-romance.
Next, the author included her short story, Sealed by a Kiss as a bonus read.
Divorcee Jenny has been eyeing Nick at the local coffee shoppe for some time before she gets the courage to approach him. She is startled by how forward he is, but enjoys speaking to him over coffee. What she doesn’t know, is that this man is already peripherally involved in her life and he surprises her in a big way.
I liked this “second love” story but found it a tad incredible at times. However, it was syrupy sweet and the kind of story that makes you say, “awww” at the end. I liked the clever way that the author wrapped up the story.
Overall, these romances are the perfect afternoon read for fans of happily-ever-afters and insta-love romances. Both When Time Comes and Sealed With A Kiss will entertain hopeless romantics who believe in the magic of love.❤ Recommended!
I'm hosting a giveaway of this novella on my blog until 10/31/16! Check out my blog post for a chance to win!
Full Review: https://awellreadwomanblog.wordpress....
Author Cat Nicolauo will fuel your love for love with these syrupy sweet stories about a second-chance romance (time has passed and now they have a second chance) and a second-love (because the first time around, it didn’t work out).
Let’s discuss When Time Comes, my favorite of the two short stories.
When Times Comes by Cat Nicolauo is a fun second-chance romance novella with a happily-ever-after about a Rock Star (Alex Dane) and his “number one fan” (Athena). They meet on a ferry ride during his summer tour and spend an intense three days together.
Fast forward to six years later when Alex Dane is back touring and Athena attends his concert. She wonders if he will he remember her and if they can have their second chance at romance.
I really liked this sweet romance and was happy to see Athena and Alex get their happily-ever-after. This novella is sure to delight romantics-at-heart with its insta-romance.
Next, the author included her short story, Sealed by a Kiss as a bonus read.
Divorcee Jenny has been eyeing Nick at the local coffee shoppe for some time before she gets the courage to approach him. She is startled by how forward he is, but enjoys speaking to him over coffee. What she doesn’t know, is that this man is already peripherally involved in her life and he surprises her in a big way.
I liked this “second love” story but found it a tad incredible at times. However, it was syrupy sweet and the kind of story that makes you say, “awww” at the end. I liked the clever way that the author wrapped up the story.
Overall, these romances are the perfect afternoon read for fans of happily-ever-afters and insta-love romances. Both When Time Comes and Sealed With A Kiss will entertain hopeless romantics who believe in the magic of love.❤ Recommended!
I'm hosting a giveaway of this novella on my blog until 10/31/16! Check out my blog post for a chance to win!
Full Review: https://awellreadwomanblog.wordpress....
March 30, 2015
This is the first time I have been asked by an author to review a book. When Time Comes is the first book from author Cat Nicolaou. I read this novella with the knowledge that this was her first publication and she was likely not a native "American English" speaker. As a matter of fact, I rarely read internationally set or authored books because I typically find that I struggle with the language barriers and terminology. But, because I was asked, I went into this book with an open mind and truly interested to see what I would find.
For a first novella, this was a pretty good read. The premise of the book is a woman who meets someone she has idolized for many years and ends up having a brief relationship with him. While this story could have easily been a "been there, done that" story, it wasn't. Because it was set in Greece, it put a fresh perspective on this story that I wasn't familiar with. I enjoyed the glimpses I was given of Greece and what life may be like living there. The writer didn't include a lot of "pop culture" types references which makes this story more timeless rather than "set in the moment". I also liked that the characters in this story weren't young - the heroine was 34 and the hero was 44. As someone in that age range, it was nice to see a love story that wasn't just about young "twenty-somethings".
When it came to writing style, it felt as though the author was almost "trying too hard". There are times when I read a book that it feels like the author has attempted to mix up the sentence openers and sentence style to ensure it isn't repetitive, and this was one of those times. The writing style sometimes "tripped me up" but all in all, it didn't hinder my progress and my ability to relate to the story line. The author could have fleshed out the story a bit more in several sections and brought it to a more "complete" end prior to ending the scene rather than leaving the reader with a feeling of "abrupt ending". I also felt that there were a bit too many "cliches" used. In some cases, the abruptness of the writing or the use of cliches could be a result of an author who doesn't speak American English as a native and the "translation" into a book for American English readers is difficult.
Despite my feedback regarding the writing style, for a novella length book I felt the story was well thought out, and the story line brought to a realistic conclusion with the right level of emotional investment in the characters. This novella could really be made fantastic if it were expanded into a full-length novel and some of the details that were otherwise glossed over were included.
Disclosure: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
For a first novella, this was a pretty good read. The premise of the book is a woman who meets someone she has idolized for many years and ends up having a brief relationship with him. While this story could have easily been a "been there, done that" story, it wasn't. Because it was set in Greece, it put a fresh perspective on this story that I wasn't familiar with. I enjoyed the glimpses I was given of Greece and what life may be like living there. The writer didn't include a lot of "pop culture" types references which makes this story more timeless rather than "set in the moment". I also liked that the characters in this story weren't young - the heroine was 34 and the hero was 44. As someone in that age range, it was nice to see a love story that wasn't just about young "twenty-somethings".
When it came to writing style, it felt as though the author was almost "trying too hard". There are times when I read a book that it feels like the author has attempted to mix up the sentence openers and sentence style to ensure it isn't repetitive, and this was one of those times. The writing style sometimes "tripped me up" but all in all, it didn't hinder my progress and my ability to relate to the story line. The author could have fleshed out the story a bit more in several sections and brought it to a more "complete" end prior to ending the scene rather than leaving the reader with a feeling of "abrupt ending". I also felt that there were a bit too many "cliches" used. In some cases, the abruptness of the writing or the use of cliches could be a result of an author who doesn't speak American English as a native and the "translation" into a book for American English readers is difficult.
Despite my feedback regarding the writing style, for a novella length book I felt the story was well thought out, and the story line brought to a realistic conclusion with the right level of emotional investment in the characters. This novella could really be made fantastic if it were expanded into a full-length novel and some of the details that were otherwise glossed over were included.
Disclosure: I received a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
February 8, 2017
The author sent me this book, When Time Comes, asking me if I'd give it a read and review it. And me, being the guy I am, did.
Okay, standard disclaimer for this type of book, I just can't get into the romance genre. And this book is most definitely aligned deep within the wish-fulfillment world of perfect love of the romance genre.
Separating myself from my inability to really 'get' romance novels is difficult, but I'll attempt to do so for the purposes of this review.
Because, you see, this is a well written book. The characters are developed, the scene is set, and the picture is painted quite clearly. There is even a little bit of drama revolving around the will they or won't they ever get to their happily ever after, so it's probably not entirely wish-fulfillment fiction...but pretty darn close.
Sorry...I promise I'll leave my comments regarding the genre itself out of it from here on out.
A young woman finds out her favorite musician is coming to Greece (the country she resides in, in case that's not apparent here), and is overly excited about getting to see him in concert for the first time ever. On the fifteen hour ferry ride to the island of Rhodes to see the concert, who does she happen to run across but the musician himself!
An attraction develops between the two of them quickly, and a whirlwind of a weekend ensues, but at the end, neither seem capable of revealing their true feelings and ...
Sheesh, I'm really bad at this.
Bottom line: If you like reading romance novels, this is a spectacular example of the genre, one of the few I've ever been able to actually make my way through. It's solidly composed and should be something any fan of the genre would absolutely fall in love with.
I'm giving it a three out of five stars, which is by far the highest rating I've ever given a romance novel. And that rating has nothing to do with the skill of Ms. Nicolaou, but purely due to the fact that I just can't fully get into the genre itself.
As an added bonus, an additional short story is included after the main novel to give you yet another example of Nicolaou's spectacular way with words.
Seriously, if you like this type of book, you'll love this book. I'm certain of it.
Okay, standard disclaimer for this type of book, I just can't get into the romance genre. And this book is most definitely aligned deep within the wish-fulfillment world of perfect love of the romance genre.
Separating myself from my inability to really 'get' romance novels is difficult, but I'll attempt to do so for the purposes of this review.
Because, you see, this is a well written book. The characters are developed, the scene is set, and the picture is painted quite clearly. There is even a little bit of drama revolving around the will they or won't they ever get to their happily ever after, so it's probably not entirely wish-fulfillment fiction...but pretty darn close.
Sorry...I promise I'll leave my comments regarding the genre itself out of it from here on out.
A young woman finds out her favorite musician is coming to Greece (the country she resides in, in case that's not apparent here), and is overly excited about getting to see him in concert for the first time ever. On the fifteen hour ferry ride to the island of Rhodes to see the concert, who does she happen to run across but the musician himself!
An attraction develops between the two of them quickly, and a whirlwind of a weekend ensues, but at the end, neither seem capable of revealing their true feelings and ...
Sheesh, I'm really bad at this.
Bottom line: If you like reading romance novels, this is a spectacular example of the genre, one of the few I've ever been able to actually make my way through. It's solidly composed and should be something any fan of the genre would absolutely fall in love with.
I'm giving it a three out of five stars, which is by far the highest rating I've ever given a romance novel. And that rating has nothing to do with the skill of Ms. Nicolaou, but purely due to the fact that I just can't fully get into the genre itself.
As an added bonus, an additional short story is included after the main novel to give you yet another example of Nicolaou's spectacular way with words.
Seriously, if you like this type of book, you'll love this book. I'm certain of it.
April 10, 2016
Read review at: http://thereadingarmchair.blogspot.gr...
We all have celebrity crushes. They might be actors, singer, athletes, or even authors. Athena, our protagonist, was lucky enough to experience a weekend romance with her favourite singer, Alex Dane. Naturally, after this weekend they had to part ways, never to see each other again. But fate had other plans for Athena. She would never forget Alex, not after the gift he gave her. Six years later, there was still hope for our young protagonist, as Alex would visit Greece again for a concert and he also planned to retire from constant touring.
When Time Comes was a very cute novella. The plot had something of every fangirl's dream, the ending even more so. There is no surprise whatsoever as to what would happen at the end, but this fact didn't take away any of the enjoyment. On the contrary, it felt cozy and sweet.
My problem with this book laid with the characters. There was very little to none character development, as well as backstory. At the end of the novella, I couldn't really that I knew neither Athena nor Alex. I could relate with Athena at the very beginning when she was desperately searching for a job. I know how it feels and it certainly felt very familiar to me. Another thing that I didn't really like was the fact that Alex offered his apartment to Athena for the weekend, even though he had just met her. It just felt too unreal. It was something that needed to exist to help the plot go forward and nothing more.
But I really loved that the story of When Time Comes took place in Greece and more specifically in Rhodes. I had been there some years ago and it was such a beautiful island and the town of Rhodes was so romantic, that it totally fit the mood of the story. Imagining Athena and Alex there was just perfect!
We all have celebrity crushes. They might be actors, singer, athletes, or even authors. Athena, our protagonist, was lucky enough to experience a weekend romance with her favourite singer, Alex Dane. Naturally, after this weekend they had to part ways, never to see each other again. But fate had other plans for Athena. She would never forget Alex, not after the gift he gave her. Six years later, there was still hope for our young protagonist, as Alex would visit Greece again for a concert and he also planned to retire from constant touring.
When Time Comes was a very cute novella. The plot had something of every fangirl's dream, the ending even more so. There is no surprise whatsoever as to what would happen at the end, but this fact didn't take away any of the enjoyment. On the contrary, it felt cozy and sweet.
My problem with this book laid with the characters. There was very little to none character development, as well as backstory. At the end of the novella, I couldn't really that I knew neither Athena nor Alex. I could relate with Athena at the very beginning when she was desperately searching for a job. I know how it feels and it certainly felt very familiar to me. Another thing that I didn't really like was the fact that Alex offered his apartment to Athena for the weekend, even though he had just met her. It just felt too unreal. It was something that needed to exist to help the plot go forward and nothing more.
But I really loved that the story of When Time Comes took place in Greece and more specifically in Rhodes. I had been there some years ago and it was such a beautiful island and the town of Rhodes was so romantic, that it totally fit the mood of the story. Imagining Athena and Alex there was just perfect!
June 19, 2015
I have always been more into action/horror/thriller books but over the years I guess I have softened. My best friend is very much into romantics and through our mutual love of books and discussing them, I guess we have opened each other’s’ minds to different styles. Since the many years ago she convinced me to read “The Paris Wife” I have slowly come around to romantics. For once, I now have a book in her choice of genre to recommend!
This charming, if a little steamy, story portrays that when two soul mates met, no matter how little time they’ve spent together, or how long they have been kept apart, their love will never waiver. I like the way the story flitters back and forth between both their POV, seeing how they both have deep feelings for each other and are more alike than they realise. I ended up reading this book in one evening, I was so sucked in.
At the end of When Times Comes, there is a bonus short story and although it possess a different name, the title When Time Comes also fits with well this romantic, where love seems to sprout from the most strangest (and coincidental) of places!
This charming, if a little steamy, story portrays that when two soul mates met, no matter how little time they’ve spent together, or how long they have been kept apart, their love will never waiver. I like the way the story flitters back and forth between both their POV, seeing how they both have deep feelings for each other and are more alike than they realise. I ended up reading this book in one evening, I was so sucked in.
At the end of When Times Comes, there is a bonus short story and although it possess a different name, the title When Time Comes also fits with well this romantic, where love seems to sprout from the most strangest (and coincidental) of places!
March 30, 2015
This was a great story. Of love, loss, and hope. I felt like the author did a good job bringing me into the story. It was a fast read that kept me intrigued.
She meets her celebrity crush, Alex Dane, on a ship… I mean who would love to meet their celebrity crush? Well she did and to top it off he was into spending time with her. Bada Bing! Spending an intimate weekend together didn’t seem to be enough for Athena but it will do, especially when she finds the perfect parting gift Alex has left her with.
Now she has lived and never moved on from the great love of her life. No one will ever compare to Alex Dane. Six years of pining and six years of wondering of what could have been. Could he have felt the connection she felt they shared? She is thrown a bone when he comes back to do a concert. She feels now is the time to try and go for it.
Now six heartbreaking years later they will meet again. Will this time it be right? “When Time Comes” can they make it work?
Visit me @ lindylubookreview.com
She meets her celebrity crush, Alex Dane, on a ship… I mean who would love to meet their celebrity crush? Well she did and to top it off he was into spending time with her. Bada Bing! Spending an intimate weekend together didn’t seem to be enough for Athena but it will do, especially when she finds the perfect parting gift Alex has left her with.
Now she has lived and never moved on from the great love of her life. No one will ever compare to Alex Dane. Six years of pining and six years of wondering of what could have been. Could he have felt the connection she felt they shared? She is thrown a bone when he comes back to do a concert. She feels now is the time to try and go for it.
Now six heartbreaking years later they will meet again. Will this time it be right? “When Time Comes” can they make it work?
Visit me @ lindylubookreview.com
June 10, 2016
(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique)
You meet your crush, a rock star, have three fun days with him (in and out of the bedroom) and part ways .... in love. Hmm. I don't believe in love at first sight. Nor do I think you can love someone after only three days, but hey, that's just me. For the hopeless romantics out there, you'll like this tale.
For me, the best part was the ending. I'm a sucker for a sweet, happy ending. (BTW: The ending was the sole reason why this book went from a score of 2.5 to a 3.)
Oh, I know I shouldn't have to say this but I still am. I mean, I'm basically about to recite a lesson from Sex101.
Word of advice readers: Always glove up unless you truly know the person and know if they are disease free. It all worked out for Athena but others might not like receiving a "positive sign" from their doctor or, heaven forbid, an STD (which she didn't have) Thank goodness!!
(See more reviews/ratings at www.superkambrook.com)
You meet your crush, a rock star, have three fun days with him (in and out of the bedroom) and part ways .... in love. Hmm. I don't believe in love at first sight. Nor do I think you can love someone after only three days, but hey, that's just me. For the hopeless romantics out there, you'll like this tale.
For me, the best part was the ending. I'm a sucker for a sweet, happy ending. (BTW: The ending was the sole reason why this book went from a score of 2.5 to a 3.)
Oh, I know I shouldn't have to say this but I still am. I mean, I'm basically about to recite a lesson from Sex101.
Word of advice readers: Always glove up unless you truly know the person and know if they are disease free. It all worked out for Athena but others might not like receiving a "positive sign" from their doctor or, heaven forbid, an STD (which she didn't have) Thank goodness!!
(See more reviews/ratings at www.superkambrook.com)
February 27, 2015
After spotting a code on twitter, but not being one for romance, I thought I'd give it a go and see what all the fuss was about.
Well, I was quite surprised by this shy, innocent, little Romance story. It's pretty steamy in parts—I'm not sure where the line is drawn for erotica, but it was more “Romantic” than I was expecting.
As a women's fantasy novel, it presses all the right buttons. The heroine feeling she is trapped with her parents in a mundane loveless life and a Rock star hero who is past his prime and accepting his life has been a flit from concert to concert and missing out on a settled family life.
For a début novel it's incredibly well-written and edited compared to the standards of many books on Smashwords.
There is a second short-story at the end which might be a taster of what this author has up her sleeve for the next book. I hope so. I'm looking forward to it already.
Well, I was quite surprised by this shy, innocent, little Romance story. It's pretty steamy in parts—I'm not sure where the line is drawn for erotica, but it was more “Romantic” than I was expecting.
As a women's fantasy novel, it presses all the right buttons. The heroine feeling she is trapped with her parents in a mundane loveless life and a Rock star hero who is past his prime and accepting his life has been a flit from concert to concert and missing out on a settled family life.
For a début novel it's incredibly well-written and edited compared to the standards of many books on Smashwords.
There is a second short-story at the end which might be a taster of what this author has up her sleeve for the next book. I hope so. I'm looking forward to it already.
October 12, 2016
This review is featured on my blog: Writerly Bookish Stuff
30 something Athena has followed the career of 45 year old, Alex Dane, pop superstar since her teens, and she gets the chance to see him live on the Greek Island of Rhodes. Taking the fifteen hour trip to the island she stumbles across the singer on deck, and a romance blossoms. Okay, so the narrative is a little cliche and at times unbelievable, but it's the dream of most women, right? To entice their idol into a steamy fling.
The six years later part was less interesting for me. The whole Mina storyline gave the narrative less credibility in my opinion, but it did make the conclusion a little bit sweeter. Spoilers- they all live happily ever after.
A romance to be read in an hour with a happy conclusion.
30 something Athena has followed the career of 45 year old, Alex Dane, pop superstar since her teens, and she gets the chance to see him live on the Greek Island of Rhodes. Taking the fifteen hour trip to the island she stumbles across the singer on deck, and a romance blossoms. Okay, so the narrative is a little cliche and at times unbelievable, but it's the dream of most women, right? To entice their idol into a steamy fling.
The six years later part was less interesting for me. The whole Mina storyline gave the narrative less credibility in my opinion, but it did make the conclusion a little bit sweeter. Spoilers- they all live happily ever after.
A romance to be read in an hour with a happy conclusion.
April 18, 2015
When Time Comes is a classic romance story. Girl is lonely and unhappy. Girl's luck changes to good, good and even better. Girl meets man of her dreams in unusual circumstances and dreams become realities. But there are some hitches along the way. The course of true love never runs smoothly, they say. But this is a happy ever after story. And so the girl finds a way. The great They also say life is stranger than fiction, so anything is possible. I won't give too much away.
I think the story is mostly for female readers who enjoy reading about the dream romance. I've never been into that dream so the story wasn't my ideal read. That said, the story is well constructed, well written and well edited.
I think the story is mostly for female readers who enjoy reading about the dream romance. I've never been into that dream so the story wasn't my ideal read. That said, the story is well constructed, well written and well edited.
January 16, 2017
We meet Athena who came across the chance to meet her celebrity crush. She spends the weekend making magic in and of the bedroom
This was definitely insta love to a tee and as Im usually not so ill mannered when it comes to insta love but I felt that this was a little to hard to take. And I completely understand that Nicolaou only had 114 pages to convey her story but it felt alittle to fake for me. I also felt a lack of connection to the characters.
But on a positive a twist in the story gives some appeal to the story and I think Nicolaou is definitely an all around writer, we've seen a collection of dark romances now we've been given a love story.
Im looking forward to reading more from Nicolaou...
This was definitely insta love to a tee and as Im usually not so ill mannered when it comes to insta love but I felt that this was a little to hard to take. And I completely understand that Nicolaou only had 114 pages to convey her story but it felt alittle to fake for me. I also felt a lack of connection to the characters.
But on a positive a twist in the story gives some appeal to the story and I think Nicolaou is definitely an all around writer, we've seen a collection of dark romances now we've been given a love story.
Im looking forward to reading more from Nicolaou...
October 24, 2016
When Time Comes is a surprising love story that I was a little unsure about but by the end of the second chapter I was very much in love with the story and characters. Athena is a down on her luck woman who gets a chance to see her music idol and ends up finding "the one". Alex is a rock star who finds love without looking. The chemistry is undeniable between these two but it's a long six years before they see each other again. This is beautifully and descriptively written and will take you on an emotional rollercoaster so be ready for the ride. Cannot wait to read more by the lovely Ms. Nicolaou.
December 19, 2016
I received this book from Cat Nicolaou in exchange for an honest review.
You know that book that you're interested in but are afraid of reading because you have this perception that it's probably just an okay book? Well, this was that book. I ended up loving it! I'm a sucker for romance. Who doesn't daydream about falling in love with someone like Alex? Cat wrote a spectacular romance novel that makes you swoon the entire time you're reading. The character were full of life and love and the plot was beautiful. This book will take you on an emotional steady ride but everything falls into place like it should be. Great job Cat!
You know that book that you're interested in but are afraid of reading because you have this perception that it's probably just an okay book? Well, this was that book. I ended up loving it! I'm a sucker for romance. Who doesn't daydream about falling in love with someone like Alex? Cat wrote a spectacular romance novel that makes you swoon the entire time you're reading. The character were full of life and love and the plot was beautiful. This book will take you on an emotional steady ride but everything falls into place like it should be. Great job Cat!
June 30, 2015
This is Cat's first novella and honestly after reading this she is going to have some very powerful books. This book made me feel as if i was the Characters and going through what they were.
It just had me wanting to read more to see if Athena got her HEA. This is a sweet romance with some ver steamy scenes. It shows you that even the most perfect looking relationship is not always as perfect as you may think. Alex and Athena have communication issues that they both need to overcome. Alex and Athena were a dynamic couple.
I can not wait to read more from Cat in the future.
It just had me wanting to read more to see if Athena got her HEA. This is a sweet romance with some ver steamy scenes. It shows you that even the most perfect looking relationship is not always as perfect as you may think. Alex and Athena have communication issues that they both need to overcome. Alex and Athena were a dynamic couple.
I can not wait to read more from Cat in the future.
March 9, 2015
This book took me by surprise. What I did not expect was to actually care about the characters, especially Athena. I had to keep reading to find out if she got her happily-ever-after. And I was certainly not expecting to find myself getting teary-eyed at one point. This is a new author with the power to move her readers. Does Athena get her happily-ever after? You'll have to read it to find out.
August 15, 2016
I picked this one up on a free day, and shouldn't have, because I'm really not into the romance genre. I probably shouldn't even be writing this review now. It's not the author's fault that she writes a genre I don't understand. If you like romance, chances are this is the right book for you. It's short and sweet and
SPOILER ALERT
the girl gets the guy and they live happily ever after.
But we saw that coming, didn't we? The thing is, I don't see a reason why they should. So Athena meets her celebrity crush and they have a few days of fun. There's nothing in their behavior that indicates there's anything but sexual attraction between them. Because they don't talk to each other. She wants to stay but doesn't want to push him, and apparently he feels the same but they never tell each other. What sort of relationship is that? To me it's not romantic, it's hopeless. Sorry. How can they be happy if they can't even have a decent conversation? Trust each other enough to put their thoughts and feelings on the table?
By the way, kudos to the author. Her writing is good enough to actually make me think all this and still read on.
SPOILER ALERT
the girl gets the guy and they live happily ever after.
But we saw that coming, didn't we? The thing is, I don't see a reason why they should. So Athena meets her celebrity crush and they have a few days of fun. There's nothing in their behavior that indicates there's anything but sexual attraction between them. Because they don't talk to each other. She wants to stay but doesn't want to push him, and apparently he feels the same but they never tell each other. What sort of relationship is that? To me it's not romantic, it's hopeless. Sorry. How can they be happy if they can't even have a decent conversation? Trust each other enough to put their thoughts and feelings on the table?
By the way, kudos to the author. Her writing is good enough to actually make me think all this and still read on.
October 9, 2016
I received a copy of this book from the author in exchange of an honest review
I absolutely loved the beginning half of this book. When Athena meets Alex on the cruise ship and they started a whirlwind romance it was sweet, fun, and I loved the build up between them while they are on the ship. When Athena draws Alex and then gives him the portrait when she goes to leave it was one of those moments where you are yelling at the characters to “stop, go back, don’t leave it like that! Speak your feelings!”
The second part happening six years later is where I started to enjoy it less, and it’s basically because of Athena and how she never tried to contact Alex because she was scared. To me all of her reasons just didn’t fly with me. By the end of the book I was just so annoyed with how Athena handled things it brought this book from a solid 4 star to a 3 star. That’s just my opinion though, others might not feel as strongly about it. I did like their happy ending though.
I absolutely loved the beginning half of this book. When Athena meets Alex on the cruise ship and they started a whirlwind romance it was sweet, fun, and I loved the build up between them while they are on the ship. When Athena draws Alex and then gives him the portrait when she goes to leave it was one of those moments where you are yelling at the characters to “stop, go back, don’t leave it like that! Speak your feelings!”
The second part happening six years later is where I started to enjoy it less, and it’s basically because of Athena and how she never tried to contact Alex because she was scared. To me all of her reasons just didn’t fly with me. By the end of the book I was just so annoyed with how Athena handled things it brought this book from a solid 4 star to a 3 star. That’s just my opinion though, others might not feel as strongly about it. I did like their happy ending though.
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