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Girl Gone Greek
Rachel, a free-spirited and single forty-something English teacher, has discovered there’s more to life than marriage, children and living up to family expectations. Girl Gone Greek is a novel about an Englishwoman’s experiences in rural Greece early in the millennium. Set against the breathtaking background of the Greek countryside and Athens, Rachel meets a colourful cast of eccentric characters, plants her feet deeply into the local soil and ultimately finds her true love – Greece.
186 pages, Paperback
Published May 29, 2015
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837 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
January 18, 2016
Meet Rachel, a brave and daring soul who sees life as an adventure, a place to try new things and dance to the beat of a different drummer. See Rachel take an English teacher’s position in Greece, a country that seems to be an amazing collage of history, color and colorful characters. Amaze at how Rachel learns to fall in love with Greece, check kisses, hugs, leers, spit and all! Cheer for Rachel when she realizes she doesn’t need to be like everyone else, she is fine just the way she is, but don’t take away her English Cuppa, please!
Sit back, relax, start with your feet and work on up, Rebecca Hall is the tour guide for Girl Gone Greek and you are about to enjoy a delightful read as we follow Rachel find where she fits in this crazy world we live in!
Rebecca Hall adds a taste of the cuisine, some quirky characters, some culture shock and a few tales of the rich history of Greece, sets the blender to whip and gives us a light and airy read that will leave you with a satisfied smile and a hankering to travel. Rachel has spent her life not quite fitting the mold some people (read that,” her older sister”) thin she should fit into. Rachel is a square peg, she will never fit into the round hole and it takes one huge leap of faith to discover that one person’s perception of heaven on earth isn’t necessarily hers! A quick read that flows from scene to scene flawlessly as we experience Greece through Rachel’s eyes and soon her heart. Ms. Hall has created a tale with a flare that makes her readers feel as if they, too, went on this adventure!
Publication Date: June 12, 2015
Publisher: Rebecca Hall
ISBN-13: 9781512251883
Genre: Women's Fiction
Print Length: 188 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes& Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Sit back, relax, start with your feet and work on up, Rebecca Hall is the tour guide for Girl Gone Greek and you are about to enjoy a delightful read as we follow Rachel find where she fits in this crazy world we live in!
Rebecca Hall adds a taste of the cuisine, some quirky characters, some culture shock and a few tales of the rich history of Greece, sets the blender to whip and gives us a light and airy read that will leave you with a satisfied smile and a hankering to travel. Rachel has spent her life not quite fitting the mold some people (read that,” her older sister”) thin she should fit into. Rachel is a square peg, she will never fit into the round hole and it takes one huge leap of faith to discover that one person’s perception of heaven on earth isn’t necessarily hers! A quick read that flows from scene to scene flawlessly as we experience Greece through Rachel’s eyes and soon her heart. Ms. Hall has created a tale with a flare that makes her readers feel as if they, too, went on this adventure!
Publication Date: June 12, 2015
Publisher: Rebecca Hall
ISBN-13: 9781512251883
Genre: Women's Fiction
Print Length: 188 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes& Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
July 15, 2015
This is a really lovely light summer read from new author Rebecca A Hall. At a time when Greece is facing grave difficulties, this novel reminds us just what it is about the country that makes it so beautiful no matter what. This is a story filled with good humour, honesty and tradition as we embark on a journey from the UK to Greece following the happy-go-lucky Rachel. Rebecca is able to seamlessly add history to the mix and what emerges is a colourful personal account of one woman's eye-opening time in a culture full of pride, love and just a dash of ouzo.
September 6, 2015
If you have been drawn to this book because of the inclusion of the word ‘Greek’ in the title, you will not be disappointed. The author clearly knows Greece and its inhabitants very well, effortlessly bringing its geography and history to life through the observations of the individual and distinctive characters she has created.
The entertaining storyline thrusts you into the heart of village life, but frequently dips into the history and buzz of Athens which stunningly illustrates the differences between the two. As a regular visitor to Greece, I loved reading about some familiar locations and even had to stifle a giggle when reminded about the flirtatious TV weather girl!
There is much about this book that will enable you to picture the scenery, smell the flora and taste the delicious food of this country but, at its heart, this is a simple story of self-discovery with believable characters who will stay in your mind long after the final paragraph.
The entertaining storyline thrusts you into the heart of village life, but frequently dips into the history and buzz of Athens which stunningly illustrates the differences between the two. As a regular visitor to Greece, I loved reading about some familiar locations and even had to stifle a giggle when reminded about the flirtatious TV weather girl!
There is much about this book that will enable you to picture the scenery, smell the flora and taste the delicious food of this country but, at its heart, this is a simple story of self-discovery with believable characters who will stay in your mind long after the final paragraph.
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August 11, 2015DNF - 18%. So meaningless and colorless. Like chewing gum after it has lost all of its flavor - you're automatically performing the action of reading, but nothing comes out of it - no feeling whatsoever, not a bit of interest involved. A waste of my time.
August 13, 2017
Enjoyable read which also served as a reminder of the most important events in the greek calendar. It certainly took me back to when I lived in Greece - the sense of strangeness, foreignness that soon became almost second nature. For anyone not familiar with Greek culture or customs then you will learn a lot from this story.For anyone else it is a good beach read.
October 7, 2015
The good:
- The descriptions of Greek life, characters, culture and history. I found that really interesting, and it seems like the author knows Greece very well (confirmed by seeing she's actually co-authored travel books on Greece).
- Fast and easy to read, there was no trudging along and it mostly flowed well.
The bad:
- Nothing happens. Like almost literally nothing happens. Woman goes to Greece, teaches kids and pours coffee in a potted plant - the end (and what's with that anyway?! If you're going to be so much of a wuss you won't tell someone you don't want their coffee, you can at least pour it down the sink or something instead of ruining their plant..). I'm not against fiction that isn't plot driven per se, but in this case I really feel as if it needed something more.
- The writing is a bit wooden in places, though it gets better and is mostly decent.
- The main character is dull. There's some conflict with a sister, but it's never really explained. And other than that she seems to mainly be preoccupied with the fact that she's a rebel and unconventional. Some of the supporting characters have potential but they're not fleshed out.
Overall it was an OK read, and I would recommend it for anyone who's especially interested in or enamoured with Greece.
- The descriptions of Greek life, characters, culture and history. I found that really interesting, and it seems like the author knows Greece very well (confirmed by seeing she's actually co-authored travel books on Greece).
- Fast and easy to read, there was no trudging along and it mostly flowed well.
The bad:
- Nothing happens. Like almost literally nothing happens. Woman goes to Greece, teaches kids and pours coffee in a potted plant - the end (and what's with that anyway?! If you're going to be so much of a wuss you won't tell someone you don't want their coffee, you can at least pour it down the sink or something instead of ruining their plant..). I'm not against fiction that isn't plot driven per se, but in this case I really feel as if it needed something more.
- The writing is a bit wooden in places, though it gets better and is mostly decent.
- The main character is dull. There's some conflict with a sister, but it's never really explained. And other than that she seems to mainly be preoccupied with the fact that she's a rebel and unconventional. Some of the supporting characters have potential but they're not fleshed out.
Overall it was an OK read, and I would recommend it for anyone who's especially interested in or enamoured with Greece.
November 17, 2015
I loved this book! Rachel felt so real to me and I empathized as I read about all the quirky Greeks she encountered. Among all the locals mentioned, the young students seemed the most likable. Rachel's girlfriend ranges from incredibly rude to just loopy and although I howled to read her antics I didn't manage to warm up to her at all. The owner of the Greek school was one tough cookie but Rachel handled her wonderfully, I thought. By the end of the book, I found myself admiring Rachel, not only for managing to live alone in a tiny, basic flat while co-existing with a series of awkward foreigners and showing incredible stoicism, but also for the way she bloomed through the experience, finding strength in herself enough to stand up to her horrid, judgmental sister back home. Well done Rachel! I highly recommend this delightful book for its insights into the Greek way of life from a foreigner's perspective, especially as it contains very interesting facts on modern Greek history. I look forward to the next book in the series.
August 3, 2017
Currently there are a lot of books about living in Greece, mostly written by ex-pats, and most of whom would hate to be termed thus. We know Greece very well having travelled extensively over 50+ years; all over the mainland and remote islands and it was wonderful to find a book which echoed our own experience of character, politics, landscape and small town life. So I would say this is one of the best of this genre, the detail given to Greek customs and nuances is excellent and characters in this work of fiction are very realistic. Knowing Greece it didn't take long to identify the the Greek "village" but what will remain with me is this author's very authentic take on Greek village and family life and so different to their relationship with city life in Athens which so many Greeks hanker after.
September 2, 2018
Short read enjoyable. But slightly annoyed with the constant correction of grammar by Rachel on every person she meets. Also did she ever bother learning Greek in that year because when you go stay in a country at least try to get something more than a few words. And if you don’t learn it don’t go around and tell everyone you meet how they should say things in English especially when they’re friends.
December 2, 2020
Dull.
There is just no insight into Greece here. Being amazed by a gyros? Wondering if it is a cultural faux-pas to sit next to someone on the bus? Mocking the Greeks' "pidgin" English? A list of Wikipedia-type facts on the Meteora? It's all so slight. I love Greece and try to read as much as I can about the country, but this book is just clichéd surface level. A real disappointment.
There is just no insight into Greece here. Being amazed by a gyros? Wondering if it is a cultural faux-pas to sit next to someone on the bus? Mocking the Greeks' "pidgin" English? A list of Wikipedia-type facts on the Meteora? It's all so slight. I love Greece and try to read as much as I can about the country, but this book is just clichéd surface level. A real disappointment.
July 5, 2016
If you are interested in a fun book that describes Greece and Greek culture with enjoyable characters and a feeling of being there read "My Family and Other Animals". Girl Gone Greek is not that interesting. The characters are shallow and the descriptions of the food and places are mediocre.
July 16, 2017
I can’t believe it’s taken me this long to get round to reading this lovely book. It’s been waiting patiently on my Kindle for ages.
But better late than never, as they say. And so at last I’ve been able to enjoy Rebecca's excellent novel about Rachel’s experiences as a TEFL teacher in Greece. Anyone who’s ever lived or worked abroad, or thought about doing so, will revel in this story, with its ups and downs of foreign life, the faux pas and the frustrations but the endless fascination of discovering another culture. I’ve never been to Greece and so I eagerly soaked up every detail we get of all the places our heroine describes to us, and, of course, the people she meets.
There’s not only the geographical journey, there’s a spiritual journey too. Rachel feels that she has a point to prove to unsympathetic family when she undertakes a year of TEFL: that she’s independent and perfectly capable, thank you. But you do get the distinct feeling she’s not quite happy in her own skin at the start of the book, but by the end, when she’s the girl gone Greek, then she most certainly is. Greece is her spiritual home, the place where she can be who she’s meant to be. Through friendships and minor but significant triumphs at work, Rachel puts down her roots and blossoms.
It’s a delightful, uplifting book, full of sharp observations, humour and determination.
But better late than never, as they say. And so at last I’ve been able to enjoy Rebecca's excellent novel about Rachel’s experiences as a TEFL teacher in Greece. Anyone who’s ever lived or worked abroad, or thought about doing so, will revel in this story, with its ups and downs of foreign life, the faux pas and the frustrations but the endless fascination of discovering another culture. I’ve never been to Greece and so I eagerly soaked up every detail we get of all the places our heroine describes to us, and, of course, the people she meets.
There’s not only the geographical journey, there’s a spiritual journey too. Rachel feels that she has a point to prove to unsympathetic family when she undertakes a year of TEFL: that she’s independent and perfectly capable, thank you. But you do get the distinct feeling she’s not quite happy in her own skin at the start of the book, but by the end, when she’s the girl gone Greek, then she most certainly is. Greece is her spiritual home, the place where she can be who she’s meant to be. Through friendships and minor but significant triumphs at work, Rachel puts down her roots and blossoms.
It’s a delightful, uplifting book, full of sharp observations, humour and determination.
October 15, 2017
Reading this book is a treat! It's a fast-paced, believable, and often amusing account of the protagonist Rachel choosing to teach English in a rather remote village in Greece, despite her sister's pronounced derision. During the process of teaching (and some weekends away in Athens), she learned much more from her various students and new friends than she expected about modern Greek history, and ultimately her own life. I strongly identify with the story personally. Highly recommended!
June 14, 2015
If you like to read books with relateable characters and beautifully described locations, that will take you to a faraway land where people and places are so very different from home, where your protagonist is thrown head-first into a brand-new life - then you will love Girl Gone Greek. Rebecca Hall's debut novel is full of colourful characters, from the disapproving older sister, to the warm and loving father, to the offhand, difficult boss and the nutty, passionate best friend. We are transported to what feels like the real Greece, away from tourists and partying, to everyday life in a remote little village. A fish out of water, newly qualified English teacher Rachel relies on her wits, energy and positive attitude to create the life of her dreams, charming people along the way and falling in love with her chaotic, accepting, demanding, beautiful new home. I really enjoyed this easy to read tale - and I'm sure you will too!
February 1, 2018
A well written book, slightly lacking a strong style of writing, but written clearly and forcefully. It is a good picture of a headstrong girl wanting to do her own thing despite the opinion of her family, and we follow the author as she goes off to Greece to work and manages to make a life for herself in a new society. We soon identify with her, and her struggles to establish herself, and through her eyes we see a certain amount of Greece. We also see that she's certainly not a shrinking violet, and her determination to succeed comes through very clearly.
At the beginning of the book we see some dramatic action and family tension,but that then cedes from the picture and we simply follow her as she lives her new life.
At the beginning of the book we see some dramatic action and family tension,but that then cedes from the picture and we simply follow her as she lives her new life.
February 5, 2017
I loved this book. I felt that this could have been written for me Rebecca completely understands what it is like to be In love with Greece and how it gets under your skin.
I will keep this book on my shelf and I'll pick it up again when I am feeling homesick for this beautiful country
I will keep this book on my shelf and I'll pick it up again when I am feeling homesick for this beautiful country
August 12, 2017
I was expecting more from this book...
August 9, 2018
Brought back some very happy memories
Firstly I met the author a couple of months ago in Cyprus and remembered her book and storyline. I went out and bought it and could not put it down. Yes I bought it and I am glad I did as I can safely say my review has not been influenced by the author. Now back to not putting it down. It was a book I could totally relate to and only wished that there were more chapters. Would I recommend the book? I would and have already to English, Cypriot and Greek friends who I am sure will be just as engrossed and amused as I was. Should we expect a follow up to this book? I personally would love one.
Firstly I met the author a couple of months ago in Cyprus and remembered her book and storyline. I went out and bought it and could not put it down. Yes I bought it and I am glad I did as I can safely say my review has not been influenced by the author. Now back to not putting it down. It was a book I could totally relate to and only wished that there were more chapters. Would I recommend the book? I would and have already to English, Cypriot and Greek friends who I am sure will be just as engrossed and amused as I was. Should we expect a follow up to this book? I personally would love one.
November 26, 2018
A very absorbing read, chronicling the journey of a perceptive woman, who is slowly integrating into a culture quite different from her own. The characters are well-developed, the writing flowing and witty, the protagonist relatable, sincere, and utterly humane. Particularly recommended for nomads, expats, globetrotters and explorers of all type, who are brave enough to free themselves from the confines of assigned country, family, culture etc and find their tribe in a whole new cultural landscape.
November 25, 2017
Such a great read for anyone interested in life in Greece, especially as an English teacher. Rebecca writes in a witty, descriptive and informative manner.
As we follow Rachel on her journey to Greece and becoming integrated into society it's obvious that it's not as easy as it might seem.
As an English teacher I really enjoyed the scenes in the classroom and could sympathize with Rachael on several occasions.
Definitely recommended. Looking forward to more from Rebecca.
As we follow Rachel on her journey to Greece and becoming integrated into society it's obvious that it's not as easy as it might seem.
As an English teacher I really enjoyed the scenes in the classroom and could sympathize with Rachael on several occasions.
Definitely recommended. Looking forward to more from Rebecca.
June 9, 2021
It was a delightfully humorous story of search for belonging in society and family; to realize that family and personal lifestyle are personal options and choices. The cultural nuances, as perceived by a non-Greek, are spot on.
I would have given a 5-star rating but that one 'lost' star is due to typos; awkward transliterations and, the couple of comments about 'soviet style / communist style' descriptions.
I would have given a 5-star rating but that one 'lost' star is due to typos; awkward transliterations and, the couple of comments about 'soviet style / communist style' descriptions.
January 13, 2018
A perfect read over Summer. I loved how this book described landmarks of Greece, I was certainly taken into the world of the story. This book tells of a years work as a teacher of English. An enjoyable read.
August 15, 2018
What I call a really nice read for someone who has a Greek interest. A brilliant insight into the Greek ways much of which I could associate. And I learned a few Greek words especially one that rhymes with banker!!
July 23, 2020
Such a beautiful story that really resonated with me. Was brought up in a Greek family and this book captures so well the Greek culture and it's people. Feeling nostalgic and can't wait to be back in Greece after reading this! Thank you Rebecca for sharing your wonderful story.
December 21, 2023
This took me forever to finish.
The story of her teaching life I found lacking. However, the descriptions of Greece had me captivated.
Although it's been probably 15 years since I've been there. Her descriptions took me right back!
The story of her teaching life I found lacking. However, the descriptions of Greece had me captivated.
Although it's been probably 15 years since I've been there. Her descriptions took me right back!
April 17, 2019
Fun to read if you like the idea of living in Greece...light reading!
August 18, 2019
A lovely enjoyable read.
June 11, 2020
I really liked this book. A beautiful story about someone who loves travelling and goes to a new place to discover a new culture and way of life.
March 4, 2025
Gave me all the feels of being in Greece. A bit judgey and sanctimonious at times, but the author shows growth over her time in Greece.
January 24, 2024
i absolutely loved it. light reading, perfect for vacations. i found watching Greece through author’s eyes quite touching as well.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews