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Girls Who Travel
A hilarious, deftly written debut novel about a woman whose wanderlust is about to show her that sometimes you don’t have to travel very far to become the person you want to be…
There are many reasons women shouldn’t travel alone. But as foul-mouthed, sweet-toothed Kika Shores knows, there are many more reasons why they should. After all, most women want a lot more out of life than just having fun. Kika, for one, wants to experience the world.
But ever since she returned from her year long backpacking tour, she’s been steeped in misery, battling rush hour with all the other suits. Getting back on the road is all she wants. So when she’s offered a nanny job in London – the land of Cadbury Cream Eggs – she’s happy at the prospect of going back overseas and getting paid for it. But as she’s about to discover, the most exhilarating adventures can happen when you stay in one place…
Wise, witty, and hilarious, Girls Who Travel is an unforgettable novel about the highs and lows of getting what you want—and how it’s the things you least expect that can change your life.
There are many reasons women shouldn’t travel alone. But as foul-mouthed, sweet-toothed Kika Shores knows, there are many more reasons why they should. After all, most women want a lot more out of life than just having fun. Kika, for one, wants to experience the world.
But ever since she returned from her year long backpacking tour, she’s been steeped in misery, battling rush hour with all the other suits. Getting back on the road is all she wants. So when she’s offered a nanny job in London – the land of Cadbury Cream Eggs – she’s happy at the prospect of going back overseas and getting paid for it. But as she’s about to discover, the most exhilarating adventures can happen when you stay in one place…
Wise, witty, and hilarious, Girls Who Travel is an unforgettable novel about the highs and lows of getting what you want—and how it’s the things you least expect that can change your life.
336 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2015
91 people are currently reading
2953 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Trilivas
2 books38 followersNicole Trilivas is the author of the novel Girls Who Travel (Penguin Random House).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 164 reviews
April 14, 2017
I was in the mood for a piece of fiction focussing on the topic of travel, after returning home from my own recent overseas trip. Girls Who Travel by debut author Nicole Trilivas has been sitting on my TBR pile for some time. I thought now was the perfect time to dust it off the shelves and give it a chance. Enticed by the title, cover and description, I was ready to settle down and enjoy this novel. Unfortunately this fast, fun, light and at times humorous novel fell short of my expectations. Rather than zone in on a young woman’s adventures abroad, this was a chick lit style novel about a young woman torn between two men and her desire to settle into a meaningful relationship. The distinct lack of travelling to world destinations and the opportunity to showcase different cultures was missing. The only feature which I thought was original about this book was the main protagonist Kika’s business venture and website idea. I liked the idea of a young enterprising female collecting unique trinkets from varying world destinations and selling them on to customers who are unable to get to these locations themselves. I thought this was a real niche in the market and one that I hoped the main protagonist would get off the ground, once she realised she needed to save her money and focus on her goal. It is a shame I have to rate this novel rather low, especially as it was endorsed by an author I have appreciated for many years, Marian Keyes. Girls Who Travel was the winner of the Wattpad Marian Keyes contest and was personally chosen to win by Marian Keyes. Unfortunately, this one didn’t live up to my expectations.
November 30, 2015
When I requested this book from the publisher prior to it's release date I couldn't wait to start it. As a post-college aged female who loves to travel, it had the makings of a favorite on my list. However, I have to say that I was thoroughly disappointed. Instead of being able a girl who likes to travel and is a strong female, her life revolves around the men and her life...some of which she just happens to meet while on her travels.
If you're looking for a strong female lead within a book that inspires you to travel, you're going to be greatly disappointed. It's not terribly written, but I didn't find it to be a "gripping" read either. All in all, it's just okay. Worth your while if you're looking for an easy beach-read, but I wouldn't get my hopes up about it too much.
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If you're looking for a strong female lead within a book that inspires you to travel, you're going to be greatly disappointed. It's not terribly written, but I didn't find it to be a "gripping" read either. All in all, it's just okay. Worth your while if you're looking for an easy beach-read, but I wouldn't get my hopes up about it too much.
I was provided with a free copy of this book in order to conduct this review.
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July 12, 2017
This is exactly the kind of novel I love and the world needs more of: well-written, funny, poignant.
Twenty-three-year-old Kika spent a year traveling the world and falling in love with an Irish man who loves travel as much as she does. After a year back in New York City working at an unfulfilling job that doesn’t cover all her expenses, she’s itching to get back on the road.
I loved the foul-mouthed Kika and her adventures in moving forward in life and in love. The supporting characters of the posh of America and Britain, the Italian waiter, and the Irish scoundrel, all seemed believably fleshed out.
Highly recommend.
For more of my reviews, please visit: http://www.theresaalan.net/blog
Twenty-three-year-old Kika spent a year traveling the world and falling in love with an Irish man who loves travel as much as she does. After a year back in New York City working at an unfulfilling job that doesn’t cover all her expenses, she’s itching to get back on the road.
I loved the foul-mouthed Kika and her adventures in moving forward in life and in love. The supporting characters of the posh of America and Britain, the Italian waiter, and the Irish scoundrel, all seemed believably fleshed out.
Highly recommend.
For more of my reviews, please visit: http://www.theresaalan.net/blog
November 24, 2015
Being a midlife wife, sometimes it is hard to read about college age kids and younger adults, depending on the way the author presents them. I was looking forward to reading this and I have to say there were parts of this book in the beginning that really annoyed me. For a woman who has traveled around the world, our lovely heroine sure takes life for granted sometimes. And she has some hard lessons to learn. Fortunately for our young miss, she lands on her feet with a great job offer that allows her to travel once again. Off to London she goes where you can really watch her grow and come into her own.
What was awesome about this read is the heroines potty mouth. I know that sounds weird but she is humorous, outspoken, and lives life large. I love that! Nothing embarrasses her... Well, not much anyway, and her young charges are just as amusing. The author has a gift for humor and it shines through in many situations in this witty read.
Love interest is high, but in a reminiscent sort of way as you follow Kika's journeys through many countries on her year abroad. While this is not a sappy romance, loaded with heat, it is in fact a romance story written as warm memories while on her travels and a hopeful budding romance that is fresh and surprising. The ending is a bit frustrating because there is not enough closure for me. I want more details. More!
Overall, this book was highly entertaining on many levels for me. A funny read that left you feeling warm and fuzzy. The author writes with details that bring the whole story to a new level and leaves you with a smile on your face. Delightful!
What was awesome about this read is the heroines potty mouth. I know that sounds weird but she is humorous, outspoken, and lives life large. I love that! Nothing embarrasses her... Well, not much anyway, and her young charges are just as amusing. The author has a gift for humor and it shines through in many situations in this witty read.
Love interest is high, but in a reminiscent sort of way as you follow Kika's journeys through many countries on her year abroad. While this is not a sappy romance, loaded with heat, it is in fact a romance story written as warm memories while on her travels and a hopeful budding romance that is fresh and surprising. The ending is a bit frustrating because there is not enough closure for me. I want more details. More!
Overall, this book was highly entertaining on many levels for me. A funny read that left you feeling warm and fuzzy. The author writes with details that bring the whole story to a new level and leaves you with a smile on your face. Delightful!
May 4, 2016
When I saw this title in the library and read the blurb, I had my fingers crossed as I picked it up that it would be something that I loved reading and I was correct. As someone who went travelling across America a few years back and I had a blast, I love the idea of travelling again though I'm personally not the backpacking type of person but it has always sounded fun travelling to new places and meeting new people. In Girls who Travel we meet Kika Shores who has travelled around Europe and other places including India where she met the handsome Lochlan on her journeys, the pair of them travelled together and had a holiday romance. This ended when Kika arrived back home to New York and got a job through friends working as an office assistant - the job doesn't last long as she spent through her money travelling in the weekends on trips and her heart wasn't there. Kika recieves a phone call from family friends The Darlings who moved over to London , they want Kika to come over and become their daughters Mina and Gwen's nanny. Kika jumps at the opportunity and sees it as a possible stepping stone to saving up more money to go travelling. However while in London, Kika will discover that often travelling isn't all it is cracked up to be and that no matter how hard you try to recreate the same experience - it is never the same thing twice. Read through bullying, nannying adventures, flings and travelling and you will have Girls Who Travel. I have to admit this book was fabulous as Kika is one of those girls who says what she means and the things that come out of her mouth had me laughing throughout the book. Also I loved the relationship portrayal the author had written between Kika and The Darlings family. If you are in your 20-30's , then Girls who Travel is the perfect read for you and if you have not yet experienced an OE tour or experience, the book will definitely get your mind thinking about the opportunities out there sitting and waiting for you to snatch them up and go for it.
April 18, 2016
2.5 stars
Let's just say this wasn't the book I was hoping it would be. I've recently developed a sudden fascination for travel stories, so this book sounded absolutely perfect. However, the book turned out to be quite a generic romance read about a woman who just happens to love travelling. The story was entirely focussed around her problems with two men and it didn't become the travel story I was expecting. That's not to say it didn't have any good bits - but I didn't enjoy it as much as I hoped I would.
Let's just say this wasn't the book I was hoping it would be. I've recently developed a sudden fascination for travel stories, so this book sounded absolutely perfect. However, the book turned out to be quite a generic romance read about a woman who just happens to love travelling. The story was entirely focussed around her problems with two men and it didn't become the travel story I was expecting. That's not to say it didn't have any good bits - but I didn't enjoy it as much as I hoped I would.
June 13, 2016
Girls Who Travel was a quick, easy and light-hearted read. I wasn't expecting to like it as much as I did and to fly through it in one day. It's been a really long time since I've read a full-length adult novel, though I suppose the romance helped it along a bit. ;)
From the title and synopsis, I get why some people are annoyed over the fact that Kika (the main character) doesn't really do any actual traveling over the course of the story. She has traveled in the past and is planning to travel in the future. As I read the book, I really got a feel for how much Kika loves traveling and how passionate she is about it, which was enough for me.
The book has its fair share of romance in it. Parts of the romance were cliched, but for me, that was one of the reasons the book was fast-paced and easy for me to get through.
The main plot of the book is Kika moving to England for a nanny job, after being fired from her old one. She is in desperate need of money to travel and therefore a job, so she takes it and moves from New York to London. The year before she went backpacking around the world and met a fellow backpacker called Lochlon, with whom she fell in love with. Ever since, Kika and Lochlon have kept in touch and Kika has been having fantasies about meeting up with him and feels that he is the only one who truly understands her passion for traveling.
When Kika arrives in England, her troubles follow her. Kika meets a very arrogant, stuck-up English man called Aston Hyde Bettencourt - and then falls in love with him, of course, isn't really sure anymore how she is going to fit traveling in with everything, and arch nemesis Bae Yoon seems to be out to get her. Of course, I say this lightly - everything works itself out in the end.
This next paragraph is a bit of a spoilery part, so don’t look if you are intending to read this and haven’t. I need to spoil a bit to explain a certain idea.
I'm not sure if the author intended this, but this book had a very Pride and Prejudice-esque feel to it (it’s even referred to in the book!). Kika is Lizzy, middle class, outspoken, break-all-the-norms sort of girl, who meets billionare upper class Englishman Aston, aka Darcy, who is at first a jerk to Kika then falls in love with her. She is also introduced to English high society, where it’s all about the reputation, social events and how much money you have. She stays with two such people, the Darlings (oh the irony), where she looks after their two children and which is also coincidentally right next door to Aston’s house. Bae Yoon appears to be Ms Bingley (though there is no Mr Bingley), Kika’s enemy out for her downfall, who already knows Aston and is rather clingy, obviously after his money. Along the way, Aston helps Kika realise what she really wants and who she could be. Eventually, her prejudice goes away and she starts to like him. Kika doesn’t realise her feelings for Aston, and chases after Lochlon aka Mr Wickham, instead, who she has a shared past with and a love for traveling. This doesn’t end well and Kika has misjudged Lochlon (just like Lizzy did with Wickham). Lochlon proceeds to try and ruin Kika’s dreams and her relationship with Aston, aka Darcy, which ultimately fails. Lochlon and Aston also have a bit of a rivalry scene over Kika. Kika eventually realises her feelings for Aston way after he has for her, and almost misses out on the chance to tell him and be with him. Almost.
Consequently, they live happily ever after. Sounds a lot like P&P, does it not?
Even though the book suspiciously follows P&P’s plot line, and the synopsis and cover is a little misleading, I still really enjoyed Girls Who Travel.
It was interesting to read from the perspective of someone who really loved to travel, and used it as an escape from boring daily life. When things were going wrong, Kika would think about traveling, which does seem a little like running away, but was really Kika’s main source of happiness at the time.
My favourite thing about this book was the humour. Kika, at times, does come across as a little immature and too outspoken but she had such a fun, fly-by-the-seat-of-her-pants personality which I loved. Kika’s twenty-three, still quite young, and trying to find her place in the world. I think it was her young, vibrant personality that made me connect with her in the first place. There are many scenes between Kika and the two girls she is ‘nannying’, and those are the funniest.
My favourite characters were Kika, Aston, Mina and Gwen (the two girls Kika looks after). Kika, Mina and Gwen had such a fun, light-hearted relationship together (Kika did know them beforehand though). Kika becomes quite attached to them at the end, and all three of them seemed to have quite a sisterly bond afterwards. Mina has some problems at school too which Kika solves in her own way, which brings the two closer.
The romance between Kika and Aston was sweet and also a little cliché. I knew that she would get together with him in the end as soon as he was introduced. They were great together though, but Aston did come off a little too perfect.
The author sneaked in quite a few modern pop culture references. For some reason, I never expected them and every time one came up, I was like Ooooh.
One downside to this book was how predictable events were. I knew that everything would somehow come together in the end and problems that seemed insurmountable were relatively easily solved.
The ending also seemed to come a little too easy. I did like how I felt satisfied by the end, with everything wrapped up nicely and no stones unturned. The book leaves you on a wistful, happy note and Kika’s hopes for the future.
A bit light on the travel, bit heavy on the romance, but overall a very fun, easy, satisfying read to fly through in a day.
From the title and synopsis, I get why some people are annoyed over the fact that Kika (the main character) doesn't really do any actual traveling over the course of the story. She has traveled in the past and is planning to travel in the future. As I read the book, I really got a feel for how much Kika loves traveling and how passionate she is about it, which was enough for me.
The book has its fair share of romance in it. Parts of the romance were cliched, but for me, that was one of the reasons the book was fast-paced and easy for me to get through.
The main plot of the book is Kika moving to England for a nanny job, after being fired from her old one. She is in desperate need of money to travel and therefore a job, so she takes it and moves from New York to London. The year before she went backpacking around the world and met a fellow backpacker called Lochlon, with whom she fell in love with. Ever since, Kika and Lochlon have kept in touch and Kika has been having fantasies about meeting up with him and feels that he is the only one who truly understands her passion for traveling.
When Kika arrives in England, her troubles follow her. Kika meets a very arrogant, stuck-up English man called Aston Hyde Bettencourt - and then falls in love with him, of course, isn't really sure anymore how she is going to fit traveling in with everything, and arch nemesis Bae Yoon seems to be out to get her. Of course, I say this lightly - everything works itself out in the end.
This next paragraph is a bit of a spoilery part, so don’t look if you are intending to read this and haven’t. I need to spoil a bit to explain a certain idea.
I'm not sure if the author intended this, but this book had a very Pride and Prejudice-esque feel to it (it’s even referred to in the book!). Kika is Lizzy, middle class, outspoken, break-all-the-norms sort of girl, who meets billionare upper class Englishman Aston, aka Darcy, who is at first a jerk to Kika then falls in love with her. She is also introduced to English high society, where it’s all about the reputation, social events and how much money you have. She stays with two such people, the Darlings (oh the irony), where she looks after their two children and which is also coincidentally right next door to Aston’s house. Bae Yoon appears to be Ms Bingley (though there is no Mr Bingley), Kika’s enemy out for her downfall, who already knows Aston and is rather clingy, obviously after his money. Along the way, Aston helps Kika realise what she really wants and who she could be. Eventually, her prejudice goes away and she starts to like him. Kika doesn’t realise her feelings for Aston, and chases after Lochlon aka Mr Wickham, instead, who she has a shared past with and a love for traveling. This doesn’t end well and Kika has misjudged Lochlon (just like Lizzy did with Wickham). Lochlon proceeds to try and ruin Kika’s dreams and her relationship with Aston, aka Darcy, which ultimately fails. Lochlon and Aston also have a bit of a rivalry scene over Kika. Kika eventually realises her feelings for Aston way after he has for her, and almost misses out on the chance to tell him and be with him. Almost.
Consequently, they live happily ever after. Sounds a lot like P&P, does it not?
Even though the book suspiciously follows P&P’s plot line, and the synopsis and cover is a little misleading, I still really enjoyed Girls Who Travel.
It was interesting to read from the perspective of someone who really loved to travel, and used it as an escape from boring daily life. When things were going wrong, Kika would think about traveling, which does seem a little like running away, but was really Kika’s main source of happiness at the time.
My favourite thing about this book was the humour. Kika, at times, does come across as a little immature and too outspoken but she had such a fun, fly-by-the-seat-of-her-pants personality which I loved. Kika’s twenty-three, still quite young, and trying to find her place in the world. I think it was her young, vibrant personality that made me connect with her in the first place. There are many scenes between Kika and the two girls she is ‘nannying’, and those are the funniest.
My favourite characters were Kika, Aston, Mina and Gwen (the two girls Kika looks after). Kika, Mina and Gwen had such a fun, light-hearted relationship together (Kika did know them beforehand though). Kika becomes quite attached to them at the end, and all three of them seemed to have quite a sisterly bond afterwards. Mina has some problems at school too which Kika solves in her own way, which brings the two closer.
The romance between Kika and Aston was sweet and also a little cliché. I knew that she would get together with him in the end as soon as he was introduced. They were great together though, but Aston did come off a little too perfect.
The author sneaked in quite a few modern pop culture references. For some reason, I never expected them and every time one came up, I was like Ooooh.
One downside to this book was how predictable events were. I knew that everything would somehow come together in the end and problems that seemed insurmountable were relatively easily solved.
The ending also seemed to come a little too easy. I did like how I felt satisfied by the end, with everything wrapped up nicely and no stones unturned. The book leaves you on a wistful, happy note and Kika’s hopes for the future.
A bit light on the travel, bit heavy on the romance, but overall a very fun, easy, satisfying read to fly through in a day.
April 11, 2016
Huge fan of this. I too am a big traveler, or at least I'm trying to be one.
This book takes the reader on a journey through the main character's transformation. I hate the metamorphosis that is attached with that adjective, but it truly is about a girl turning into a woman she never expected and how those decisions impact her personal life.
This book takes the reader on a journey through the main character's transformation. I hate the metamorphosis that is attached with that adjective, but it truly is about a girl turning into a woman she never expected and how those decisions impact her personal life.
January 15, 2016
4.5 stars! This one got me some kinda way.
And to my main girl, JFB, for saying that Kika, in all her zany glory, made her think of me. Makes a girl feel pretty damn cool. Thank you. <3
I started this novel on the sly. Your girl here was stuck at the DMV for over an hour and forgot to bring her paperback. I opened Girls Who Travel on my kindle app to kill some time because heaven forbid I have to have a conversation with another human. Welp,here we are. My paperback didn't even stand a chance against Nicole Trilivas' delicious debut novel. Allow me to tell you why.*FLOURISH MOTION*
Travel has been on my mind more and more lately (likely because my life has less direction than it ever has) (accidental pun maybe?) - it seems like the most rewarding way to get lost in order to find yourself. The further you get away from the life you know, the more you realize how much there still is to learn. The protagonist, Kika is a total travel maniac. She's hooked. All of her money goes straight to booking the next plane ticket so when eventually she has to come home for an extended stretch of time...cue boring desk job and general resentment towards her stiff professional attire and the knowledge that she's too broke to go anywhere. Soon though, through various causes and effects, she ends up in London, nannying for an incredibly wealthy family that adores her. It's here she learns what it's like to balance responsibility with her gypsy ways. Much more happens in between but for the sake of actually allowing you to experience the novel yourself, imma hush.
This book got to me, in the best kinda way, in the way only words can – it seeps into your blood, makes you want to dance a little longer, chop all your hair off, smile at the cute someone across the bar. Even just READING about travelling across the world made me feel like I was a step closer to being the brave earth goddess that I keep hoping I'm turning in to.
I'm going say this even though I know it will be taken offensively: Girls Who Travel felt like the 50 Shades of romcom, adventurous chick lit. NOW CALM DOWN. Trilivas is a far better writer, just in general in every sense all across the board etc., but the story is very simple, incredibly predictable and the dialogue can feel a little pedestrian at times. That is not to say the writing is bad, IT'S NOT. It's like an ice cream bubble gum cotton candy kind of novel - you love love love all that sugar but you know there really isn't much substance. But it is ALSO the kind of novel where you just want to read it forever so maybe your life will slowly morph into the action on the pages in front of you. You know that part in Mary Poppins where they all jump into the sidewalk chalk painting? YEA. I wanted Kika's story to keep going - I didn't want to go back to my paperback, let alone real life.
But alas, like all things, it ended. But unlike all things, I'm really really grateful this novel happened to me. So much so that I'm going to spend a whole bunch of money and see the world this summer. And ya know, I'd like to think that's exactly what the author was hoping her story would do to people. So thank you, m'lady, for this perfectly packaged gem. And if you have any sort of wanderlust in you,Girls Who Travel. should probably be the next thing you read. Also, international hunks. I mean, c'mon.
And to my main girl, JFB, for saying that Kika, in all her zany glory, made her think of me. Makes a girl feel pretty damn cool. Thank you. <3
September 17, 2017
2.5 Stars
I entered a giveaway for Girls Who Travel a while ago. I did not win, but I still had it on my To Read list, so I got it from the library.
Do not let the title fool you. This book has almost nothing to do with traveling. Most of the travel in the book is in the form of flashbacks, and it lacked detail or cultural exploration. The thin excuse relayed was that the book was about the mindset of "girls who travel" not actual travel. This was extremely disappointing because I picked up this book hoping for some armchair travel.
Overall, the story lacked depth. Kika, the main character, was shallow and obnoxious most of the time. The other characters were predictable. The romance was bland. And as I mentioned, the travel aspect (or lack thereof) was disappointing.
Somewhere along the way, I started to have the sneaking suspicion that Girls Who Travel was a retelling of Pride and Prejudice. A very loose retelling, but still noticeable. When the second love interest was introduced, I knew for certain. There did not seem to be a point to making this book a retelling. The characters had none of Austen's depth, and the writing was bland. Mostly I just rolled my eyes whenever the face-smackingly noticeable rips off Pride and Prejudice occurred. They really did not fit with the rest of the story. It was more like they were forced into the story just for the sake of having them there. When the author went so far as to directly compare two characters to Elizabeth and Darcy, it was obnoxious and too obvious. Kika was probably the second worst rewrite of Elizabeth Bennet that I've read. (Eligible is hands-down still the worst.) I would not have bothered with this book if I had known it was an Austen retelling. I tried to swear off them because they almost always disappoint.
The only redeeming quality about this book was Kika's relationship with the girls she nannied for. It was sweet and endearing and certainly more complex and believable than her romances. That was the only time her character showed any depth. In fact, it was almost enough for me to bump it up to three stars. But not quite.
RATING FACTORS:
Ease of Reading: 4 Stars
Writing Style: 2 Stars
Characters and Character Development: 3 Stars
Plot Structure and Development: 2 Stars
Level of Captivation: 3 Stars
Originality: 2 Stars
I entered a giveaway for Girls Who Travel a while ago. I did not win, but I still had it on my To Read list, so I got it from the library.
Do not let the title fool you. This book has almost nothing to do with traveling. Most of the travel in the book is in the form of flashbacks, and it lacked detail or cultural exploration. The thin excuse relayed was that the book was about the mindset of "girls who travel" not actual travel. This was extremely disappointing because I picked up this book hoping for some armchair travel.
Overall, the story lacked depth. Kika, the main character, was shallow and obnoxious most of the time. The other characters were predictable. The romance was bland. And as I mentioned, the travel aspect (or lack thereof) was disappointing.
Somewhere along the way, I started to have the sneaking suspicion that Girls Who Travel was a retelling of Pride and Prejudice. A very loose retelling, but still noticeable. When the second love interest was introduced, I knew for certain. There did not seem to be a point to making this book a retelling. The characters had none of Austen's depth, and the writing was bland. Mostly I just rolled my eyes whenever the face-smackingly noticeable rips off Pride and Prejudice occurred. They really did not fit with the rest of the story. It was more like they were forced into the story just for the sake of having them there. When the author went so far as to directly compare two characters to Elizabeth and Darcy, it was obnoxious and too obvious. Kika was probably the second worst rewrite of Elizabeth Bennet that I've read. (Eligible is hands-down still the worst.) I would not have bothered with this book if I had known it was an Austen retelling. I tried to swear off them because they almost always disappoint.
The only redeeming quality about this book was Kika's relationship with the girls she nannied for. It was sweet and endearing and certainly more complex and believable than her romances. That was the only time her character showed any depth. In fact, it was almost enough for me to bump it up to three stars. But not quite.
RATING FACTORS:
Ease of Reading: 4 Stars
Writing Style: 2 Stars
Characters and Character Development: 3 Stars
Plot Structure and Development: 2 Stars
Level of Captivation: 3 Stars
Originality: 2 Stars
November 23, 2015
Review
Kika Shores is a traveler. She loves to go all over, discover new places and experiences and live day by day. That is why she is helplessly failing at her life at home in Long Island. She is doing a half-assed job at her current place of employment, not saving any money like she hoped and desperately missing Lochlan - the boy she met traveling. This is all set to change when she gets a call to nanny over in London. Will Kika be able to get it all together for long enough to save money to get on the road again?
At first, Kika worried me. I was reading and thinking oh god am I too old to connect with her (She was 23 or around there). She seemed liked she felt above it all. Especially her job. But thankfully she had way more depth and we got to see some wonderful growth of her character throughout. I did like that she was outspoken and a little sassy. The best part of Kika though was if she loved or cared for you, she did so wholly. She would do anything for you.
There were two love interests but I wouldn't really call it a triangle because of how it was set up. She hadn't seen Lochlan, from her travels, since they parted a year ago. They also weren't actually a couple when they parted but there was a deep connection and they still spoke regularly. When she moves to London she meets someone new. This will turn everything she thought she knew and felt all out of whack.
Besides the romance aspect, there were lovely side-plots involving the girls she nannied for as well the relationship she strikes up with the person who cleans the house she is staying at. This is where we get to see Kika be caring and selfless and really put her priorities in order. I am also happy to report that she had a really great relationship with her mother. She was supportive without being overbearing.
This was a really quick read and I didn't really want to put it down. I do wish there was more about her travels or traveling in general but we did get snippets in forms of memories. Plus, I can never complain for London as a setting. Overall, I thought it was a great book for that weird time in one's life when you start to try and put things in some sort of order. I felt like we got to take that journey with Kika and was happy to see where she was going.This review was originally posted on Rebel Mommy Book Blog
Kika Shores is a traveler. She loves to go all over, discover new places and experiences and live day by day. That is why she is helplessly failing at her life at home in Long Island. She is doing a half-assed job at her current place of employment, not saving any money like she hoped and desperately missing Lochlan - the boy she met traveling. This is all set to change when she gets a call to nanny over in London. Will Kika be able to get it all together for long enough to save money to get on the road again?
At first, Kika worried me. I was reading and thinking oh god am I too old to connect with her (She was 23 or around there). She seemed liked she felt above it all. Especially her job. But thankfully she had way more depth and we got to see some wonderful growth of her character throughout. I did like that she was outspoken and a little sassy. The best part of Kika though was if she loved or cared for you, she did so wholly. She would do anything for you.
There were two love interests but I wouldn't really call it a triangle because of how it was set up. She hadn't seen Lochlan, from her travels, since they parted a year ago. They also weren't actually a couple when they parted but there was a deep connection and they still spoke regularly. When she moves to London she meets someone new. This will turn everything she thought she knew and felt all out of whack.
Besides the romance aspect, there were lovely side-plots involving the girls she nannied for as well the relationship she strikes up with the person who cleans the house she is staying at. This is where we get to see Kika be caring and selfless and really put her priorities in order. I am also happy to report that she had a really great relationship with her mother. She was supportive without being overbearing.
This was a really quick read and I didn't really want to put it down. I do wish there was more about her travels or traveling in general but we did get snippets in forms of memories. Plus, I can never complain for London as a setting. Overall, I thought it was a great book for that weird time in one's life when you start to try and put things in some sort of order. I felt like we got to take that journey with Kika and was happy to see where she was going.This review was originally posted on Rebel Mommy Book Blog
May 26, 2016
Do you ever have those books where you've only read a page but you're already filled with rage about them? That was how this book started for me. Kika, the main character, begins the novel by getting fired from her job. Why does she get fired? Oh yes...she refuses to do said job. She swears in the office, disrespects her boss, and is incapable of doing the simplest tasks (we're talking scheduling a meeting - A MONKEY could do this job). Did I mention that the only reason she has this job is because a family friend got it for her? Needless to say, Kika's angst over being forced to work a desk job after a year of backpacking doesn't exactly inspire sympathy.
I was ready to hate-read this book into oblivion, but then, a little under halfway through, my mental commentary faded, and I realized I was genuinely enjoying the book. Kika gets a job in London as an au pair and commits to doing better at her new job. The way she takes care of and advocates for the two girls is incredibly endearing. She feels genuine guilt and shame over her past behavior and starts to make tangible goals for her future. She befriends the family's Polish cleaning lady, and it's lovely.
Of course, there are love interests. I wouldn't call it a love triangle because it's never framed as a competition, and the relationships progress naturally as Kika learns more about herself. I loved that falling in love is part of her journey, but it isn't the only or most important part. There are a ton of cute moments, though. Did I swoon a little? I hate myself for saying this, but yes, I absolutely did. I always want to believe I'm above it, but I'm a sucker for this stuff every single time. By the end of the book, I was severely emotionally invested.
Despite the title, this book really isn't about traveling. Case in point: the main character moves to London, but the reader gets no information about the city. There is practically zero imagery and cultural differences are largely unacknowledged. If you're looking to travel vicariously, pick a different book. On the other hand, if you're looking for some cute chick-lit and are willing to trudge through the rage-inducing beginning and typical clichés, this book will charm your pants off.
I was ready to hate-read this book into oblivion, but then, a little under halfway through, my mental commentary faded, and I realized I was genuinely enjoying the book. Kika gets a job in London as an au pair and commits to doing better at her new job. The way she takes care of and advocates for the two girls is incredibly endearing. She feels genuine guilt and shame over her past behavior and starts to make tangible goals for her future. She befriends the family's Polish cleaning lady, and it's lovely.
Of course, there are love interests. I wouldn't call it a love triangle because it's never framed as a competition, and the relationships progress naturally as Kika learns more about herself. I loved that falling in love is part of her journey, but it isn't the only or most important part. There are a ton of cute moments, though. Did I swoon a little? I hate myself for saying this, but yes, I absolutely did. I always want to believe I'm above it, but I'm a sucker for this stuff every single time. By the end of the book, I was severely emotionally invested.
Despite the title, this book really isn't about traveling. Case in point: the main character moves to London, but the reader gets no information about the city. There is practically zero imagery and cultural differences are largely unacknowledged. If you're looking to travel vicariously, pick a different book. On the other hand, if you're looking for some cute chick-lit and are willing to trudge through the rage-inducing beginning and typical clichés, this book will charm your pants off.
November 22, 2020
I will say I started off seeing this book and wanting to read it based on the cover, because it seemed perfect for me. I'm so glad I did because I was hooked right from the first page (and then went and ordered it from my bookstore the minute I finished my library copy. Now I just have to patiently wait until my copy arrives so I can flip through my own copy!
I was so jealous by all the travelling Kika was able to do at such a young age. When Kika lands in London I couldn't help but wish I was there with her, probably couldn't be a nanny/ au pair though.
I want to start calling people hobgoblins now....
I basically enjoyed all the characters; I loved Celestynka, probably one of my favourite characters. She was funny when she'd have an outburst with Kika. Elsbeth was such a posh character and never swore once, even when she was extremely angry, which was a nice counterbalance to Kika. Gwen and Mina (the children Kika is looking after) were such sweet little girls and the best part would be when they'd repeat something inappropriate Kika would say. My favourite line was from Gwen :can we have more bloody orange juice" when they were drinking blood orange.
This book probably wouldn't be enjoyed by someone offended by off colour language (Kika has the very dirty mouth) but if your not I say pick this one up and try it.
I was so jealous by all the travelling Kika was able to do at such a young age. When Kika lands in London I couldn't help but wish I was there with her, probably couldn't be a nanny/ au pair though.
I want to start calling people hobgoblins now....
I basically enjoyed all the characters; I loved Celestynka, probably one of my favourite characters. She was funny when she'd have an outburst with Kika. Elsbeth was such a posh character and never swore once, even when she was extremely angry, which was a nice counterbalance to Kika. Gwen and Mina (the children Kika is looking after) were such sweet little girls and the best part would be when they'd repeat something inappropriate Kika would say. My favourite line was from Gwen :can we have more bloody orange juice" when they were drinking blood orange.
This book probably wouldn't be enjoyed by someone offended by off colour language (Kika has the very dirty mouth) but if your not I say pick this one up and try it.
December 11, 2016
2.5 stars
July 8, 2017
I wish I could give half stars because it was actually quite good- a great beach read and well written
March 4, 2019
I was really enjoying this at the beginning but then it just got kinda boring and I skimmed like the last third.
June 5, 2018
I wanted more travel!! It was all way too predictable and very surface level...
April 17, 2017
As a "girl" who travels, I was eager to read this. Some of the dialogue was unbelievable and shmaltzy. The climactic ending was unbelievable, as anyone who had traveled as much as Kika--the protagonist-- would have found a way, especially with a rich sidekick to help her.
Still, I enjoyed.
The voice of Kika was strong and sassy and fun.
Still, I enjoyed.
The voice of Kika was strong and sassy and fun.
September 30, 2019
2.5 Stars
Gong to mill over if I’m rounding up or down...
Gong to mill over if I’m rounding up or down...
November 22, 2015
The timing of the arrival of Girls Who Travel to my house couldn’t have been more perfect. It was the first day of a short holiday for me and I wasn’t going anywhere. I devoured this book in 24 hours – it’s a fantastic read for the holidays, full of wanderlust, boys, humour and some of the most original insults and exclamations you’ll read all year. Don’t be distracted by the somewhat serious cover – this is a fun read that you’ll devour like it was a box of chocolates.
Our heroine is Kika Shores, who lives to travel. She likes nothing better than exploring new horizons whether it be for a weekend, month or year. After a year of backpacking around the world, she’s had to return home and join the rat race to fund more trips and get her idea for a store/blog off the ground. Naturally, she’s not liking this and after treating her work flippantly one time too many, she’s fired (after a hilarious scavenger hunt around NYC for her arch rival). But a lifeline comes Kika’s way via the Darling family – will she be their au pair in London? Kika jumps at the chance for the opportunity to have a great base for European trips and catch up with Lochlon, her boyfriend from her trip. Not to mention the adorable Darling girls, Gwen and Mina. But staying in the one spot has its downsides – there’s Aston Hyde Bettencourt the grumpy yet alluring next door neighbour, problems with Mina and a change in Lochlon.
Nicole Trilivas has an incredible way with words – it’s no wonder that she won the Wattpad Marian Keyes contest, as her style and humour brought Keyes’ writing to my mind. This girl is laugh out loud funny in the way she crafts Kika’s scenes, yet they are completely realistic. Another highlight for me was the unique insults and exclamations that Kika uses (and Gwen invariably repeats, usually at a louder volume and directly in front of the person who said insult was intended for). There’s an absolute variety, from things that your grandparents would say to up to the minute variants that would stop even the nastiest junior bitch in her tracks. I loved how Trilivas wasn’t afraid to put Kika in crazy, cringe worthy situations yet Kika always battled through, with a tart remark and a badge of wisdom added to her arsenal.
The storyline is light, funny and never dull. Despite Kika doing the unbelievable and saving instead of travelling, there are plenty of glamourous scenes in Italy and London’s fanciest areas, with flashbacks to Kika’s grand trip. It’s definitely enough to satisfy your travel craving (and potentially add a few more places to your bucket list). You also get the benefit of seeing Kika grow up – from petulant, reluctant 9 to 5 worker to engaged, confident and happy member of Darling family. The story isn’t without its twists and bumps though – some are easy to spot, yet others come completely out of left field (particularly one involving Mrs Darling and her children’s future). The characters range from adorable (Gwen) to downright baddie (I’ll let you figure that out) and there’s an element of some of the magic of Mary Poppins and Pride and Prejudice too. Overall, this is a great story for the holidays as you’ll want to keep reading because it’s so engaging. I am really looking forward to more from Nicole Trilivas – I think I’ll start to clear a shelf for her novels right now.
Thank you to Penguin Australia for the copy. My review is honest.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
Our heroine is Kika Shores, who lives to travel. She likes nothing better than exploring new horizons whether it be for a weekend, month or year. After a year of backpacking around the world, she’s had to return home and join the rat race to fund more trips and get her idea for a store/blog off the ground. Naturally, she’s not liking this and after treating her work flippantly one time too many, she’s fired (after a hilarious scavenger hunt around NYC for her arch rival). But a lifeline comes Kika’s way via the Darling family – will she be their au pair in London? Kika jumps at the chance for the opportunity to have a great base for European trips and catch up with Lochlon, her boyfriend from her trip. Not to mention the adorable Darling girls, Gwen and Mina. But staying in the one spot has its downsides – there’s Aston Hyde Bettencourt the grumpy yet alluring next door neighbour, problems with Mina and a change in Lochlon.
Nicole Trilivas has an incredible way with words – it’s no wonder that she won the Wattpad Marian Keyes contest, as her style and humour brought Keyes’ writing to my mind. This girl is laugh out loud funny in the way she crafts Kika’s scenes, yet they are completely realistic. Another highlight for me was the unique insults and exclamations that Kika uses (and Gwen invariably repeats, usually at a louder volume and directly in front of the person who said insult was intended for). There’s an absolute variety, from things that your grandparents would say to up to the minute variants that would stop even the nastiest junior bitch in her tracks. I loved how Trilivas wasn’t afraid to put Kika in crazy, cringe worthy situations yet Kika always battled through, with a tart remark and a badge of wisdom added to her arsenal.
The storyline is light, funny and never dull. Despite Kika doing the unbelievable and saving instead of travelling, there are plenty of glamourous scenes in Italy and London’s fanciest areas, with flashbacks to Kika’s grand trip. It’s definitely enough to satisfy your travel craving (and potentially add a few more places to your bucket list). You also get the benefit of seeing Kika grow up – from petulant, reluctant 9 to 5 worker to engaged, confident and happy member of Darling family. The story isn’t without its twists and bumps though – some are easy to spot, yet others come completely out of left field (particularly one involving Mrs Darling and her children’s future). The characters range from adorable (Gwen) to downright baddie (I’ll let you figure that out) and there’s an element of some of the magic of Mary Poppins and Pride and Prejudice too. Overall, this is a great story for the holidays as you’ll want to keep reading because it’s so engaging. I am really looking forward to more from Nicole Trilivas – I think I’ll start to clear a shelf for her novels right now.
Thank you to Penguin Australia for the copy. My review is honest.
http://samstillreading.wordpress.com
December 1, 2015
In Girls Who Travel by Nicole Trilivas, heroine Kika Shores' most important journey is one of self-discovery. This fast-paced and engaging novel has a cast of adorable characters and a surprisingly thought-provoking storyline and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a light-hearted read.
Now her yearlong globetrotting adventure is over, Kika is working a dull office job that leaves her pining for her ex-lover Lochlon O'Mahone and the freedom to travel. Not exactly the most reliable or engaged employee, it is no surprise that Kika finds herself unemployed due to her lackluster performance. But as luck would have it, she is quickly hired as an au pair for a wealthy American family living in London. Surprisingly, Kika turns over a new leaf as she begins to look more to the future than her past, but will a reunion with Lochlon force her to rethink her plans?
Kika is a sassy, smart and colorful heroine that is a bit immature at first, but slowly but surely comes into her own after moving to London. She is fun-loving but she takes her duties as an au pair seriously and the two young girls in charge begin to thrive under her tender loving care. No one is more shocked than Kika when, instead of taking short European holidays during her weekends off, she begins to save money and create a serious business plan for her on line shop.
While still looking forward to reconnecting with Lochlon, Kika is confused by her unexpected attraction to next door neighbor Aston Hyde Bettencourt. Their first meeting was quite inauspicious and their subsequent encounters are full of misunderstandings. Therefore, Kika is quite stunned when Aston rescues her from a potentially damaging meeting with someone from her past. Afterward, Kika finally clears the air with Aston and they form an unlikely friendship that has strong undercurrents of mutual attraction. However, her rendezvous with Lochlon is imminent so she keeps her relationship with Aston firmly in the friend zone. Kika's reunion with Lochlon becomes a turning point but a series of unexpected events becomes another obstacle for her to overcome.
Girls Who Travel by Nicole Trilivas is an entertaining novel that has a surprising amount of depth. Kika is a wonderful protagonist and watching her grow and mature is immensely gratifying. The storyline is quite refreshing with several unpredictable twists and turns. An all around delightful read that fans of contemporary women's fiction are sure to enjoy.
Now her yearlong globetrotting adventure is over, Kika is working a dull office job that leaves her pining for her ex-lover Lochlon O'Mahone and the freedom to travel. Not exactly the most reliable or engaged employee, it is no surprise that Kika finds herself unemployed due to her lackluster performance. But as luck would have it, she is quickly hired as an au pair for a wealthy American family living in London. Surprisingly, Kika turns over a new leaf as she begins to look more to the future than her past, but will a reunion with Lochlon force her to rethink her plans?
Kika is a sassy, smart and colorful heroine that is a bit immature at first, but slowly but surely comes into her own after moving to London. She is fun-loving but she takes her duties as an au pair seriously and the two young girls in charge begin to thrive under her tender loving care. No one is more shocked than Kika when, instead of taking short European holidays during her weekends off, she begins to save money and create a serious business plan for her on line shop.
While still looking forward to reconnecting with Lochlon, Kika is confused by her unexpected attraction to next door neighbor Aston Hyde Bettencourt. Their first meeting was quite inauspicious and their subsequent encounters are full of misunderstandings. Therefore, Kika is quite stunned when Aston rescues her from a potentially damaging meeting with someone from her past. Afterward, Kika finally clears the air with Aston and they form an unlikely friendship that has strong undercurrents of mutual attraction. However, her rendezvous with Lochlon is imminent so she keeps her relationship with Aston firmly in the friend zone. Kika's reunion with Lochlon becomes a turning point but a series of unexpected events becomes another obstacle for her to overcome.
Girls Who Travel by Nicole Trilivas is an entertaining novel that has a surprising amount of depth. Kika is a wonderful protagonist and watching her grow and mature is immensely gratifying. The storyline is quite refreshing with several unpredictable twists and turns. An all around delightful read that fans of contemporary women's fiction are sure to enjoy.
May 26, 2019
Nice easy read with a great boy next door romance!
February 15, 2016
3.5 stars
I requested Girls Who Travel from the library immediately after reading an interview that author Nicole Trilivas did with blogger Susan Blumberg-Kason. Any book with “travel” in the title is going to get my attention, and Trilivas’s novel sounded like a fun take on the topic from someone with a significant amount of globe-trotting experience.
Trilivas has put together a solid story with a relatable protagonist in Kika, who spent a year backpacking around the world and wants nothing more than to hit the road again. Kika views her day job as simply a means to an end, as she tries to save up funds for another long trip, and her laid-back attitude eventually gets her fired. Salvation comes in the form of an au pair job in London—Kika gets to spend her time at an occupation she enjoys, plus explore a new city (and get to know the intriguing boy next door).
As much as I enjoyed Girls Who Travel, there was something that held me back from really enjoying it. That something was that when I looked at Kika, I cringed. Not because she’s a bad character, but because I’m now a decade removed from my early twenties and kind of can’t bear to read or watch stories about young women of that age. I feel the same way about Girls Who Travel as I do about Girls the TV show: I’ve been there and done (some of) those things and made (some of) those mistakes and would rather not relive the experience, even through a fictional character. I have enough perspective to see the mistakes coming, but don’t yet have enough distance to not feel their sting. So the fact that I couldn’t wholeheartedly enjoy Girls Who Travel is not in any way a reflection of Trilivas’s skill, but should perhaps be a warning to other thirty-somethings interested in the book: you might not be ready to read this yet.
I requested Girls Who Travel from the library immediately after reading an interview that author Nicole Trilivas did with blogger Susan Blumberg-Kason. Any book with “travel” in the title is going to get my attention, and Trilivas’s novel sounded like a fun take on the topic from someone with a significant amount of globe-trotting experience.
Trilivas has put together a solid story with a relatable protagonist in Kika, who spent a year backpacking around the world and wants nothing more than to hit the road again. Kika views her day job as simply a means to an end, as she tries to save up funds for another long trip, and her laid-back attitude eventually gets her fired. Salvation comes in the form of an au pair job in London—Kika gets to spend her time at an occupation she enjoys, plus explore a new city (and get to know the intriguing boy next door).
As much as I enjoyed Girls Who Travel, there was something that held me back from really enjoying it. That something was that when I looked at Kika, I cringed. Not because she’s a bad character, but because I’m now a decade removed from my early twenties and kind of can’t bear to read or watch stories about young women of that age. I feel the same way about Girls Who Travel as I do about Girls the TV show: I’ve been there and done (some of) those things and made (some of) those mistakes and would rather not relive the experience, even through a fictional character. I have enough perspective to see the mistakes coming, but don’t yet have enough distance to not feel their sting. So the fact that I couldn’t wholeheartedly enjoy Girls Who Travel is not in any way a reflection of Trilivas’s skill, but should perhaps be a warning to other thirty-somethings interested in the book: you might not be ready to read this yet.
December 14, 2015
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I could be persuaded to bump this rating to 4 stars without too much persuasion. But for now, let's call it 3.5 stars.
This is a new to me author and it was the cute cover and description that indicated that she was funny that made me request it. I'm glad I did. This was well written and though I wasn't laughing out load, I was certainly smiling and entertained through the entire book.
This is a bit of a coming of age story without the overly young main character. A woman with a bad case of wander lust is forced to stay in one place in order to earn money for her next travel adventure. As she struggles with her job, or rather with her dedication to her job, she starts to adjust her priorities. In the midst of this, Kika finds herself between two very different men. Lochlon, a kindred travelling spirit and Aston, a blue blood who is firmly rooted.
I enjoyed the humour, the story and the characters very much. I read this very quickly and as I said, I was entertained throughout. The romantic aspects of this fall into the chaste category. Kika has a healthy appetite for sex but the reader doesn't get the details. It's not that I need to have steamy sex scenes in order to enjoy a book, but when I'm reading a romance, I do have an expectation that some would be present and that expectation wasn't met. Had some been here, I think I would have given 4 stars.
I could be persuaded to bump this rating to 4 stars without too much persuasion. But for now, let's call it 3.5 stars.
This is a new to me author and it was the cute cover and description that indicated that she was funny that made me request it. I'm glad I did. This was well written and though I wasn't laughing out load, I was certainly smiling and entertained through the entire book.
This is a bit of a coming of age story without the overly young main character. A woman with a bad case of wander lust is forced to stay in one place in order to earn money for her next travel adventure. As she struggles with her job, or rather with her dedication to her job, she starts to adjust her priorities. In the midst of this, Kika finds herself between two very different men. Lochlon, a kindred travelling spirit and Aston, a blue blood who is firmly rooted.
I enjoyed the humour, the story and the characters very much. I read this very quickly and as I said, I was entertained throughout. The romantic aspects of this fall into the chaste category. Kika has a healthy appetite for sex but the reader doesn't get the details. It's not that I need to have steamy sex scenes in order to enjoy a book, but when I'm reading a romance, I do have an expectation that some would be present and that expectation wasn't met. Had some been here, I think I would have given 4 stars.
June 28, 2016
Summary: Sassy, say what she thinks, sweet-toothed Kika Shores wants to experience the world. She wants to travel and start a business so she can continue to travel. Ever since she returned from her yearlong backpacking tour, she’s been steeped in misery, battling rush hour commute and a competitive personal assistant in NYC. Kika wants to travel. Period. So when she’s offered a nanny job in London – the land of Cadbury Cream Eggs – she’s delighted to go and be an au pair to two girls. But what do her adventures lead to? Read this delightful novel and find out.
Pros: Really liked this easy read that is perfect for beach time, a commute home (on the train) or on your way to a far off destination. Enjoyed the banter of the characters had between each other and the descriptions of NYC, London and Italy. The self discovery of Kika was believable and well done. And the girls, Willamina and Gwendolyn were entertaining and true to life. We should all be inspired by all the reasons to travel alone: It's hard work sometimes, want of adventures, desire to have international best friends, see hold your breath vistas, discover moving works of art (in museums or sidewalk graffiti). To fall in love with boys with accents and sore feet from all night dance parties.... etc.
Cons: Nothing to mention.
Cover: 5 Stars. Love the image of a women alone with her backpack and being totally at ease with her situation.
Pros: Really liked this easy read that is perfect for beach time, a commute home (on the train) or on your way to a far off destination. Enjoyed the banter of the characters had between each other and the descriptions of NYC, London and Italy. The self discovery of Kika was believable and well done. And the girls, Willamina and Gwendolyn were entertaining and true to life. We should all be inspired by all the reasons to travel alone: It's hard work sometimes, want of adventures, desire to have international best friends, see hold your breath vistas, discover moving works of art (in museums or sidewalk graffiti). To fall in love with boys with accents and sore feet from all night dance parties.... etc.
Cons: Nothing to mention.
Cover: 5 Stars. Love the image of a women alone with her backpack and being totally at ease with her situation.
December 12, 2015
I was given a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Kika Shores is a 23 year-old living the dream. She is traveling with just a backpack on her back. She graduated from college with a degree in “Tourism and Travel Management”, so this is the perfect way for her to spread her wings. She meets a man named, Lochlon O’Mahone in India and falls in love.
It seems she is living the dream that a lot of us girls thought about doing before we settled in to a career. At least one I thought of. The coolest part was that she was traveling alone!
She buys wares from the locals in the towns she travels through, and sells them on a he website. This was how she was paying for her trip.
When she goes back home to New York, she begins a job in New York City that does not last long. Corporate living is not her thing. I feel she is too free-spirited. Then, the best thing happens…she is offered a job to be a Nanny in London with the Darling family. She would have her own “living quarters”, and would have the weekends off.
This is the perfect job for her! She knew the two girls that she would take care of, and was already close with their Mother. She would have the weekends off, and get to take weekend trips all over Europe!
Kika Shores is about to have the adventure of her lifetime.
Only it does not happen as she expects!!
Enjoy this journey!
Kika Shores is a 23 year-old living the dream. She is traveling with just a backpack on her back. She graduated from college with a degree in “Tourism and Travel Management”, so this is the perfect way for her to spread her wings. She meets a man named, Lochlon O’Mahone in India and falls in love.
It seems she is living the dream that a lot of us girls thought about doing before we settled in to a career. At least one I thought of. The coolest part was that she was traveling alone!
She buys wares from the locals in the towns she travels through, and sells them on a he website. This was how she was paying for her trip.
When she goes back home to New York, she begins a job in New York City that does not last long. Corporate living is not her thing. I feel she is too free-spirited. Then, the best thing happens…she is offered a job to be a Nanny in London with the Darling family. She would have her own “living quarters”, and would have the weekends off.
This is the perfect job for her! She knew the two girls that she would take care of, and was already close with their Mother. She would have the weekends off, and get to take weekend trips all over Europe!
Kika Shores is about to have the adventure of her lifetime.
Only it does not happen as she expects!!
Enjoy this journey!
March 29, 2017
love love loved this book. It definitely was a feel good story that also hit me in all of the feelings!! I want to be an au pair in London. or wherever doing whatever as long as I can be in Europe!!
December 4, 2015
I wanted a book that told the tale of a girl traveling. Girls Who Travel is not really that book. This is a story of a girl, Kika, who did travel but then ran out of money and had to get a job. She did not enjoy her job and was fired then getting a job taking care of two adorable children. While working the nanny job she meets a man who may just help her put down roots.
I was torn on Kika. I liked that she was strong enough to travel to foreign countries without a lot of knowledge and on her own. The fact that she met up with others who were traveling the same way made me feel like she was safer. When she took the nanny job I was hoping that it would be long term. It seemed like she all of a sudden grew up and decided what she wanted to do and just did it. She stuck to the saving money and staying with the family to take care of the girls. Aston, the neighbor, had a lot to do with that, I think. He seemed to have a calming effect on her and gave her a life to look forward to.
Girls Who Travel is a good, easy read. It was not a book that I could not put down but it was a book that I wanted to keep reading. I recommend it for someone looking for a quick read.
I was torn on Kika. I liked that she was strong enough to travel to foreign countries without a lot of knowledge and on her own. The fact that she met up with others who were traveling the same way made me feel like she was safer. When she took the nanny job I was hoping that it would be long term. It seemed like she all of a sudden grew up and decided what she wanted to do and just did it. She stuck to the saving money and staying with the family to take care of the girls. Aston, the neighbor, had a lot to do with that, I think. He seemed to have a calming effect on her and gave her a life to look forward to.
Girls Who Travel is a good, easy read. It was not a book that I could not put down but it was a book that I wanted to keep reading. I recommend it for someone looking for a quick read.
January 30, 2019
Believability scale: 0. Woman in her 20’s with limited means just so happens to move next door to one of the richest bachelors in England. (Who is emotionally crushed and needs to “fixed” of course.) Goes on approximately one date with him, has sex and realizes they are in love and she moves to London to be taken care of.
Not only does she save the rich, handsome man, but she is a savior for the 2 kids she is nannying for by convincing their mother that she knows the kids better than the clueless mother and as such not to send them to boarding school. Ugh. Seriously? It’s clear the author doesn’t have children.
It’s essentially a Harlequin romance without the bodice ripper on the cover. The only reason I finished it was because it was a book club book.
Not only does she save the rich, handsome man, but she is a savior for the 2 kids she is nannying for by convincing their mother that she knows the kids better than the clueless mother and as such not to send them to boarding school. Ugh. Seriously? It’s clear the author doesn’t have children.
It’s essentially a Harlequin romance without the bodice ripper on the cover. The only reason I finished it was because it was a book club book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 26, 2018
Here's an enticingly fun and light book to read amid this festive season's rush.
Kika, a free-spirited girl who graduated with a degree in "Travel and Tourism Management" is spending her time travelling and experiencing the world as a light traveler with nothing but a backpack on her back!
What will happen to Kika is what will make you realize that the things you least expect in life might, just might, change your life!
I recommend this book to all of the girls with wanderlust in their veins who are nonetheless, tied up to a stifling corporate job !
Viva La Vida✌
Instagram Account: pigeonhole_bookblog
Kika, a free-spirited girl who graduated with a degree in "Travel and Tourism Management" is spending her time travelling and experiencing the world as a light traveler with nothing but a backpack on her back!
What will happen to Kika is what will make you realize that the things you least expect in life might, just might, change your life!
I recommend this book to all of the girls with wanderlust in their veins who are nonetheless, tied up to a stifling corporate job !
Viva La Vida✌
Instagram Account: pigeonhole_bookblog
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