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The Summer Escape
Amongst the beautiful olive groves and sea-front tavernas, summer has arrived on the sun-drenched island of Crete.
After losing the love of her life, Ria’s life has been on hold. So when her boss becomes completely unbearable she makes the snap decision to run away to the Greek island of Crete, armed only with her passport.
When Ria finds herself working for eccentric novelist Caroline, she meets handsome vineyard owner Tom. He’s charming, mysterious and Ria starts to wonder if it’s not just the beautiful Greek island that she’s falling for.
But as Ria gets to know Tom better, she uncovers a tangled web of secrets. What is he hiding? Ria has some secrets of her own. Can she open up to Tom and learn to live again?
This summer, escape to the sun with this charming and emotional story about starting over and grabbing happiness with both hands.
Note: Previously published as 'An Invincible Summer.' This is a new extended version
After losing the love of her life, Ria’s life has been on hold. So when her boss becomes completely unbearable she makes the snap decision to run away to the Greek island of Crete, armed only with her passport.
When Ria finds herself working for eccentric novelist Caroline, she meets handsome vineyard owner Tom. He’s charming, mysterious and Ria starts to wonder if it’s not just the beautiful Greek island that she’s falling for.
But as Ria gets to know Tom better, she uncovers a tangled web of secrets. What is he hiding? Ria has some secrets of her own. Can she open up to Tom and learn to live again?
This summer, escape to the sun with this charming and emotional story about starting over and grabbing happiness with both hands.
Note: Previously published as 'An Invincible Summer.' This is a new extended version
240 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 26, 2016
615 people are currently reading
545 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
May 25, 2016
3.5
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this book a lot. The atmosphere on Crete is captured in a really great way. I have never been there but there was everything in front of me. I also liked the vineyard setting, that gave the story a special touch. The setting was definitely a highlight for me. The suspense bit of the story was also an interesting touch.
It took a while until I got warm with the characters but I liked how the story developed around Ria, how she was able to enjoy life again.
The love story was a bit dragged in the beginning and too rushed in the end. The couple was really sweet together but it didn't get to me emotionally.
I really enjoyed the author's writing style and I am looking forward to more of her books.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this book a lot. The atmosphere on Crete is captured in a really great way. I have never been there but there was everything in front of me. I also liked the vineyard setting, that gave the story a special touch. The setting was definitely a highlight for me. The suspense bit of the story was also an interesting touch.
It took a while until I got warm with the characters but I liked how the story developed around Ria, how she was able to enjoy life again.
The love story was a bit dragged in the beginning and too rushed in the end. The couple was really sweet together but it didn't get to me emotionally.
I really enjoyed the author's writing style and I am looking forward to more of her books.
June 3, 2016
In the past two years Ria has suffered two life changing losses which she is struggling to move on from, a situation not helped by her job as an obituary writer for a newspaper. Steeped in death, she has forgotten how to live until the day when, instead of going to work, she breaks her commute at Heathrow Airport and on the spur of the moment jets off to Crete. Crete is the obvious choice for Ria; she is half Greek and has grown up listening to her grandmother’s stories of the Cretan way of life.
This is a really good, entertaining read which is ideal for summer holiday reading. Easy to read, it is full of sun, food, wine with a huge dash of romance and a mystery to boot as Ria delves into the history of a local vineyard to try and discover just who was responsible for a catastrophic fire there 10 years ago. I loved the way the romance between Ria and Tom, the vineyard owner was woven into the story. It was nicely built up, simmering away in the background and they made such a lovely couple I just could not wait for their happy ever after.
I have to say that I wasn’t too sure about the book at first. In the initial chapter I didn’t really like Ria’s tone of voice; it felt just a little too sarcastic. However, as the story develops she seems to drop that layer of sarcasm and I found her much more likeable. I did feel a little niggly about the ease in which she seemed to land on her feet when she got to Crete. Somewhere to live and finding a job just seemed to fall into her lap and throughout the read some of the misunderstandings and spanners in the work did seem to be overcome a tad too easily. However, there is some really lovely writing here about loss, grief and the need to carry on living and I found it quite uplifting at times.
Don’t let my niggles put you off, this is an extremely entertaining romantic read with some fantastic characters. I particularly loved Caroline, the retired travel writer who employs Ria as her assistant. I would say that if you packed this book to read on your sun lounger this year you would definitely not be disappointed. I received a review copy from the publisher via Netgalley.
This is a really good, entertaining read which is ideal for summer holiday reading. Easy to read, it is full of sun, food, wine with a huge dash of romance and a mystery to boot as Ria delves into the history of a local vineyard to try and discover just who was responsible for a catastrophic fire there 10 years ago. I loved the way the romance between Ria and Tom, the vineyard owner was woven into the story. It was nicely built up, simmering away in the background and they made such a lovely couple I just could not wait for their happy ever after.
I have to say that I wasn’t too sure about the book at first. In the initial chapter I didn’t really like Ria’s tone of voice; it felt just a little too sarcastic. However, as the story develops she seems to drop that layer of sarcasm and I found her much more likeable. I did feel a little niggly about the ease in which she seemed to land on her feet when she got to Crete. Somewhere to live and finding a job just seemed to fall into her lap and throughout the read some of the misunderstandings and spanners in the work did seem to be overcome a tad too easily. However, there is some really lovely writing here about loss, grief and the need to carry on living and I found it quite uplifting at times.
Don’t let my niggles put you off, this is an extremely entertaining romantic read with some fantastic characters. I particularly loved Caroline, the retired travel writer who employs Ria as her assistant. I would say that if you packed this book to read on your sun lounger this year you would definitely not be disappointed. I received a review copy from the publisher via Netgalley.
May 21, 2016
This is an extremely moving story of recovery from grief, a second chance at life, striving to find the truth and daring to leave everything to enable you to make a fresh start.
After the deaths of two people who Ria loved she’s struggling to cope with the grief - and her job as an obituary writer just isn’t helping! Nor is the pressure being put on her by her boss for Ria to agree to be interviewed for an article in the paper about her losses. When it gets to be just too much she accidentally finds herself at the airport and decides to escape to Crete, where her father’s family came from. On the way she reads a newspaper article about the re-development of the Elysium vineyard after much of it was burnt down a decade ago, a story that intrigues her almost as much as the photograph of the owner attracts her!
Having flown out without any luggage, Euros, accommodation or anything arranged, Ria is enchanted by the island, the scents and sounds she’s heard so much about from her grandmother. She is lucky enough to find a job working for Caroline Murray who is endeavouring to write her memoirs but that isn’t all. She also gets to meet lots of brilliant characters, investigate the mystery of how the fire started, be involved in uncovering a cover up, revealing family secrets and, eventually, to find the courage to let her heart find true love again.
It is about having the courage (or nasty boss who you want to escape from) to follow your dreams, to make peace with past sadness and to move on to allow love back into your life even after terrible loss. I thoroughly enjoyed, one that I suspect will stay with me and certainly one I’ll be re-reading in future! I have absolutely no hesitation in highly recommending this uplifting, heart warming tale - I loved it!
Thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too, for letting me read this in exchange for my honest review.
After the deaths of two people who Ria loved she’s struggling to cope with the grief - and her job as an obituary writer just isn’t helping! Nor is the pressure being put on her by her boss for Ria to agree to be interviewed for an article in the paper about her losses. When it gets to be just too much she accidentally finds herself at the airport and decides to escape to Crete, where her father’s family came from. On the way she reads a newspaper article about the re-development of the Elysium vineyard after much of it was burnt down a decade ago, a story that intrigues her almost as much as the photograph of the owner attracts her!
Having flown out without any luggage, Euros, accommodation or anything arranged, Ria is enchanted by the island, the scents and sounds she’s heard so much about from her grandmother. She is lucky enough to find a job working for Caroline Murray who is endeavouring to write her memoirs but that isn’t all. She also gets to meet lots of brilliant characters, investigate the mystery of how the fire started, be involved in uncovering a cover up, revealing family secrets and, eventually, to find the courage to let her heart find true love again.
It is about having the courage (or nasty boss who you want to escape from) to follow your dreams, to make peace with past sadness and to move on to allow love back into your life even after terrible loss. I thoroughly enjoyed, one that I suspect will stay with me and certainly one I’ll be re-reading in future! I have absolutely no hesitation in highly recommending this uplifting, heart warming tale - I loved it!
Thanks to the author, publishers and NetGalley, too, for letting me read this in exchange for my honest review.
June 1, 2016
Excellent feel-good book set in my favourite location. This book certainly makes you long for the sights and sounds of Greece and Crete in particular - the descriptions of food and drink are very moreish. Add to that some fantastic characters-Caroline especially I loved as she's just brilliant - and a dash of romance and you have a fantastic summer read.
Just a couple of picky points. I didn't really like the way that Yaya's accent was transcribed into English as from a personal point of view I would much rather it were written normally and then add 'she said in her heavy Greek accent' leaving it to the reader's imagination.
It also didn't seem very realistic that Ria would find herself at Heathrow airport by accident conveniently with her passport but these are minor points and I am certainly looking forward to the next book by this author.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Just a couple of picky points. I didn't really like the way that Yaya's accent was transcribed into English as from a personal point of view I would much rather it were written normally and then add 'she said in her heavy Greek accent' leaving it to the reader's imagination.
It also didn't seem very realistic that Ria would find herself at Heathrow airport by accident conveniently with her passport but these are minor points and I am certainly looking forward to the next book by this author.
My thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for allowing me a copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 13, 2022
Ria is still grieving after the loss of her husband, and writing obituaries is not letting her deal with her grief. She is getting fed up with her boss, so one morning on her way to work, she finds herself on the road to the airport. Armed only with her bad, which happens to have her passport in it, she hops a plane to Crete, and a town her Yaya grew up in. She decides to stay awhile and figure out what she wants to do with her life and ends up finding a job, making friends and being instrumental is solving a mystery. There was a rather large contingent of English speakers, so Ria was able to get a job quickly. She works for a reclusive and eccentric novelist, and is offered an opportunity to write a profile on her for the English paper. She meets Tom, a vintner who is trying to revive his family's winery that had had a tragedy ten years earlier with a fire and the death of his father.
Tom and Ria were a great couple. They both had tragedy in their past and although they took time to get to know each other, they eventually gave in to their feelings. The book has so many great secondary characters that bring the village to life. Tom and his brother are estranged and as the mystery of who set the fire is revealed, you can see why. There are some not so nice characters as well, but only a couple and they will get their comeuppance. This is an easy read, enjoyable story about summer on a Greek Island. There is some romance, family issues, grief, community, friendship, new beginnings and a mystery. I enjoyed the addition of the mystery to this story. With Ria being a journalist, it added another great plotline to the story. This was a great story for me to read out by the pool.
Tom and Ria were a great couple. They both had tragedy in their past and although they took time to get to know each other, they eventually gave in to their feelings. The book has so many great secondary characters that bring the village to life. Tom and his brother are estranged and as the mystery of who set the fire is revealed, you can see why. There are some not so nice characters as well, but only a couple and they will get their comeuppance. This is an easy read, enjoyable story about summer on a Greek Island. There is some romance, family issues, grief, community, friendship, new beginnings and a mystery. I enjoyed the addition of the mystery to this story. With Ria being a journalist, it added another great plotline to the story. This was a great story for me to read out by the pool.
September 2, 2015
Where do I begin - a heartwarming summer read. I was puled into the story from the heartbreaking beginning to the happily ever after ending.
Ria was doing her best to make it through each day after the accident...one obituary at a time. How on earth she could right those day in and day is beyond me.
The description of her boss is priceless yet so true - The Devil Wears Birkenstock's - LOVE IT!
After dealing with that woman day in and day out, Ria had enough.
Then she ends up at the airport. How did she get there? What was she doing? Where was she going?
Passport in hand she was leaving for a fresh start. She was headed to Crete.
As soon as she landed she could totally understand what her grandmother, Yaya, had always loved. It was truly magical and breathtaking.
She had been walking around - a sight to see for sure - a suit and flips. But how was she suppose to know to pack for paradise when she never knew the plan!
The she sees that ad of a lifetime - a job as an assistant - perfect for her in so many ways. She can stay just a little bit longer in her new found heaven and she had a means to survive.
The writing of this story is breathtaking, you are taken away to another part of the world and you truly feel as if you are right there with Ria.
She is going through an emotional journey that has you in tears of sadness one moment to tears of joy the next. You will not want to stop reading until you have reached the end. And at that point you will hope there is another book to follow!
Ria was doing her best to make it through each day after the accident...one obituary at a time. How on earth she could right those day in and day is beyond me.
The description of her boss is priceless yet so true - The Devil Wears Birkenstock's - LOVE IT!
After dealing with that woman day in and day out, Ria had enough.
Then she ends up at the airport. How did she get there? What was she doing? Where was she going?
Passport in hand she was leaving for a fresh start. She was headed to Crete.
As soon as she landed she could totally understand what her grandmother, Yaya, had always loved. It was truly magical and breathtaking.
She had been walking around - a sight to see for sure - a suit and flips. But how was she suppose to know to pack for paradise when she never knew the plan!
The she sees that ad of a lifetime - a job as an assistant - perfect for her in so many ways. She can stay just a little bit longer in her new found heaven and she had a means to survive.
The writing of this story is breathtaking, you are taken away to another part of the world and you truly feel as if you are right there with Ria.
She is going through an emotional journey that has you in tears of sadness one moment to tears of joy the next. You will not want to stop reading until you have reached the end. And at that point you will hope there is another book to follow!
February 13, 2018
The summer escape by lily graham.
After losing the love of her life, Ria’s life has been on hold. So when her boss becomes completely unbearable she makes the snap decision to run away to the Greek island of Crete, armed only with her passport. When Ria finds herself working for eccentric novelist Caroline, she meets handsome vineyard owner Tom. He’s charming, mysterious and Ria starts to wonder if it’s not just the beautiful Greek island that she’s falling for. But as Ria gets to know Tom better, she uncovers a tangled web of secrets. What is he hiding? Ria has some secrets of her own. Can she open up to Tom and learn to live again?
A very enjoyable read. Loved the story. Ria was my favourite. 5*.
After losing the love of her life, Ria’s life has been on hold. So when her boss becomes completely unbearable she makes the snap decision to run away to the Greek island of Crete, armed only with her passport. When Ria finds herself working for eccentric novelist Caroline, she meets handsome vineyard owner Tom. He’s charming, mysterious and Ria starts to wonder if it’s not just the beautiful Greek island that she’s falling for. But as Ria gets to know Tom better, she uncovers a tangled web of secrets. What is he hiding? Ria has some secrets of her own. Can she open up to Tom and learn to live again?
A very enjoyable read. Loved the story. Ria was my favourite. 5*.
May 23, 2016
Booktrail the locations here Come to Crete with the Summer Escape
A real summer escape – from the very moment you arrive in Crete, there is a sense of Crete and the excitement that you will want to step on a plane yourself and quick.
A really nice romantic read but there is a good little mystery in there too. How and why did the fire happen and will Tom manage to get the place on its feet again. The very idea that someone would grab their passport and run off to distant climes is very admirable – some would say reckless but I think a lot of people would try and do this if they had the guts. I’m pleased that she did this as it was a really nice way to escape to the island.
I really liked meeting Carline too as I think this is the kind of person I’d like to work for as well. She’s met some fascinating people in her time and the stories she tells!
A real summer escape – from the very moment you arrive in Crete, there is a sense of Crete and the excitement that you will want to step on a plane yourself and quick.
A really nice romantic read but there is a good little mystery in there too. How and why did the fire happen and will Tom manage to get the place on its feet again. The very idea that someone would grab their passport and run off to distant climes is very admirable – some would say reckless but I think a lot of people would try and do this if they had the guts. I’m pleased that she did this as it was a really nice way to escape to the island.
I really liked meeting Carline too as I think this is the kind of person I’d like to work for as well. She’s met some fascinating people in her time and the stories she tells!
May 1, 2016
Ahh I loved this book! A perfect combination of pure Greek delight, tragedy and mystery. The writing effortlessly transports you to the Greek island of Crete with all its flavours and fragrance and makes you feel like you've really just been there. There's a "life after loss" element that is uplifting about this book as well as a good mystery to unravel and solve, all of which keep you gripped throughout.
Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for this advanced copy to review.
Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for this advanced copy to review.
February 13, 2018
The summer escape by lily graham.
After losing the love of her life, Ria’s life has been on hold. So when her boss becomes completely unbearable she makes the snap decision to run away to the Greek island of Crete, armed only with her passport. When Ria finds herself working for eccentric novelist Caroline, she meets handsome vineyard owner Tom. He’s charming, mysterious and Ria starts to wonder if it’s not just the beautiful Greek island that she’s falling for. But as Ria gets to know Tom better, she uncovers a tangled web of secrets. What is he hiding? Ria has some secrets of her own. Can she open up to Tom and learn to live again?
A very enjoyable read. Loved the story. Ria was my favourite. 5*.
After losing the love of her life, Ria’s life has been on hold. So when her boss becomes completely unbearable she makes the snap decision to run away to the Greek island of Crete, armed only with her passport. When Ria finds herself working for eccentric novelist Caroline, she meets handsome vineyard owner Tom. He’s charming, mysterious and Ria starts to wonder if it’s not just the beautiful Greek island that she’s falling for. But as Ria gets to know Tom better, she uncovers a tangled web of secrets. What is he hiding? Ria has some secrets of her own. Can she open up to Tom and learn to live again?
A very enjoyable read. Loved the story. Ria was my favourite. 5*.
September 4, 2024
As usual, my rating is a reflection only of my personal preference. Drawn to historical fiction, this romantic, predictable work of fiction isn't my usual go-to. However, it was a nice fit for my Greek vacation. The author could've been a traveling companion, as she described the food and scenery that I was also experiencing. It was a nice break from my usual reads and an accurate fit for my circumstances.
June 7, 2018
Not as good as I expected it to be. Nothing really gripped me about this story.
May 2, 2016
What a charming book, with its excellent storyline, characters and above all sunny location of Crete. There is a mystery at the heart of the story, but yet I wouldn't define it as a mystery book, just as a romantic comedy, with a side helping of intrigue, and a very brave main character.
It takes guts, or for you to be at the end of your tether, to one day instead of going into work, finding yourself at Heathrow airport with just your passport and handbag (and its a fluke that Ria even had the passport), and ending up slightly drunk but on a plane to Crete for you don't know how long. With my current frame of mind, I probably shouldn't have read the first section of the book, as the idea of jumping on a plane for some sun (and quitting the more troublesome of my jobs) is highly appealing!
Ria had been an obituary writer for the past few years, despite suffering a couple of bereavements herself, so when her boss is particularly nasty yet again, and wants to turn Ria into a story, she quite rightly snaps and thankfully we end up with a fantastic story because of it.
Ria finds a job working for Caroline Murray who is trying to put together her memoir, and desperately needs and assistant. Caroline's story is fascinating as her some of her tales about what she has been up to with various celebrities in the past. She is a tonic of a person for Ria to be around and I always knew scenes involving her would be interesting.
As I have said there is a mystery in the book, and that is to do with Tom's vineyard. Someone burnt it down 10 years ago and everyone thinks it was Tom, but Ria is not convinced. Tom is a handsome man, who seems to like spending time with Ria, and they do grow close.
There are is lot of mention of Greek food, but apart from that I didn't get the strongest sense of being on a Greek Island. There was only one trip to a beach and most of the time Ria spent her days in the library, vineyard or working for Caroline. That being said the initial descriptions of Chania, when Ria lands in Crete were wonderful and do conjure the sights and smells of the old town.
The Summer Escape, is a story of hope and healing, of being able to turn your life around, the courage to make a massive change in your life before it grinds you down and above all of a slow to form romance. The writing is engaging and I found The Summer Escape to be a wonderfully quick and easy read, and one that I loved every second of.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
It takes guts, or for you to be at the end of your tether, to one day instead of going into work, finding yourself at Heathrow airport with just your passport and handbag (and its a fluke that Ria even had the passport), and ending up slightly drunk but on a plane to Crete for you don't know how long. With my current frame of mind, I probably shouldn't have read the first section of the book, as the idea of jumping on a plane for some sun (and quitting the more troublesome of my jobs) is highly appealing!
Ria had been an obituary writer for the past few years, despite suffering a couple of bereavements herself, so when her boss is particularly nasty yet again, and wants to turn Ria into a story, she quite rightly snaps and thankfully we end up with a fantastic story because of it.
Ria finds a job working for Caroline Murray who is trying to put together her memoir, and desperately needs and assistant. Caroline's story is fascinating as her some of her tales about what she has been up to with various celebrities in the past. She is a tonic of a person for Ria to be around and I always knew scenes involving her would be interesting.
As I have said there is a mystery in the book, and that is to do with Tom's vineyard. Someone burnt it down 10 years ago and everyone thinks it was Tom, but Ria is not convinced. Tom is a handsome man, who seems to like spending time with Ria, and they do grow close.
There are is lot of mention of Greek food, but apart from that I didn't get the strongest sense of being on a Greek Island. There was only one trip to a beach and most of the time Ria spent her days in the library, vineyard or working for Caroline. That being said the initial descriptions of Chania, when Ria lands in Crete were wonderful and do conjure the sights and smells of the old town.
The Summer Escape, is a story of hope and healing, of being able to turn your life around, the courage to make a massive change in your life before it grinds you down and above all of a slow to form romance. The writing is engaging and I found The Summer Escape to be a wonderfully quick and easy read, and one that I loved every second of.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
May 25, 2016
I totally fell in love with the Greek village and loved Lily's description
"The honey coloured town is like something out of the Cotswolds, with it's picture postcard quaintness, little shops and cobble lane paths."
It sounds so idyllic and I wanted to be there sitting outside one of the cafes trying some Greek coffee.
Ria has suffered personal tragedy and after losing her Greek Grandma, one day she decides that she is going to catch a flight rather than go into work as the obituary writer for the local paper. She just turns up and finds a room in a lovely house. Then answers an advert to help a travel writer with her memoir.
I loved her relationship with Caroline and her delight in discovering the stories behind the photos in the old trunk. Caroline was such a wonderful character with an amazing life to share.They were both really enjoying spending the time sharing stories- the work element was just an added bonus.
I just loved the whole idea of taking time out and spending a year in Greece and getting to know all the locals and taking life at a much slower pace, enjoying the sunshine, the coffee , wine and friendships.
The romance with Tom, who owns the local vineyard is just lovely aswell. They are attracted to each other- but both have issues to overcome. She's also keen to solve the mystery around the vineyard and that adds a great extra element to the book.
I totally lost myself in this book and was sad to come to the end. I was delighted to read that Lily plans to set her next book in Cornwall.
With many thanks to Bookoutre and Net Galley for the chance to read this one.
"The honey coloured town is like something out of the Cotswolds, with it's picture postcard quaintness, little shops and cobble lane paths."
It sounds so idyllic and I wanted to be there sitting outside one of the cafes trying some Greek coffee.
Ria has suffered personal tragedy and after losing her Greek Grandma, one day she decides that she is going to catch a flight rather than go into work as the obituary writer for the local paper. She just turns up and finds a room in a lovely house. Then answers an advert to help a travel writer with her memoir.
I loved her relationship with Caroline and her delight in discovering the stories behind the photos in the old trunk. Caroline was such a wonderful character with an amazing life to share.They were both really enjoying spending the time sharing stories- the work element was just an added bonus.
I just loved the whole idea of taking time out and spending a year in Greece and getting to know all the locals and taking life at a much slower pace, enjoying the sunshine, the coffee , wine and friendships.
The romance with Tom, who owns the local vineyard is just lovely aswell. They are attracted to each other- but both have issues to overcome. She's also keen to solve the mystery around the vineyard and that adds a great extra element to the book.
I totally lost myself in this book and was sad to come to the end. I was delighted to read that Lily plans to set her next book in Cornwall.
With many thanks to Bookoutre and Net Galley for the chance to read this one.
May 18, 2016
This book instantly appealed to me because it is one of the many stories which come out at this time of year which are easy to read. However, this story had so much more to offer than the usual summer time reads I have encountered over the years.
I loved the way Ria found herself on the island of Crete. To be able to walk away from everything you know, without even a backward glance takes guts. Ria takes herself on a journey which is an open ended surprise from start to finish.
The people Ria meets on Crete are all so well described I could almost picture them in my head as I was reading. She finds true friends for life, and that shines through in the words the author puts on the pages.
As with similar types of books, there is a romantic interest for Ria in the book. But that isn't the main part of the story, for me at least. There is a mystery side to the book, and that is what drew me in and kept me there throughout.
I absolutely loved the ending. Iit couldn't have been more perfect, especially given the way Ria changed her life so drastically in the beginning. A brilliant read which I would highly recommend to anyone who wants a good story to read during those long, hopefully sunny, summer days coming soon.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I loved the way Ria found herself on the island of Crete. To be able to walk away from everything you know, without even a backward glance takes guts. Ria takes herself on a journey which is an open ended surprise from start to finish.
The people Ria meets on Crete are all so well described I could almost picture them in my head as I was reading. She finds true friends for life, and that shines through in the words the author puts on the pages.
As with similar types of books, there is a romantic interest for Ria in the book. But that isn't the main part of the story, for me at least. There is a mystery side to the book, and that is what drew me in and kept me there throughout.
I absolutely loved the ending. Iit couldn't have been more perfect, especially given the way Ria changed her life so drastically in the beginning. A brilliant read which I would highly recommend to anyone who wants a good story to read during those long, hopefully sunny, summer days coming soon.
Many thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for providing a copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 2, 2015
looking forward to more from this author
September 13, 2019
I read this book whilst on holiday in Greece and I don’t think I could have chosen a more suitable time or perfect book to read! This is not your standard summer romance book. There’s romance, mystery, murder and heartbreak thrown in for good measure.
Ariadne (Ria) has suffered more loss than others and spending her time writing obituaries for her local newspaper is a cruel form of torture in itself. When Ria finally reaches her breaking point in enduring her depressing job and vile boss, she chooses to fly to Crete on a whim. Little did she know that this would change her life forever…
I loved the relationships that Ria develops with characters, notably Caroline and Tom. Working for Caroline and helping her to organise her memories, reflects into Ria’s life as she begins to untangle the web of Tom’s mystery as well as sorting her own life for the better.
This is a perfect holiday read. It’s uplifting and shows how you can change your life around. The mystery side of the story was fun and ensured that the story was a real pageturner. It kept you guessing throughout and was an enjoyable aspect of the story.
A thoroughly enjoyable read and one that makes you want to keep turning those pages. I felt like I’d lost a friend when I had to reluctantly put the book down upon reaching the end.
Ariadne (Ria) has suffered more loss than others and spending her time writing obituaries for her local newspaper is a cruel form of torture in itself. When Ria finally reaches her breaking point in enduring her depressing job and vile boss, she chooses to fly to Crete on a whim. Little did she know that this would change her life forever…
I loved the relationships that Ria develops with characters, notably Caroline and Tom. Working for Caroline and helping her to organise her memories, reflects into Ria’s life as she begins to untangle the web of Tom’s mystery as well as sorting her own life for the better.
This is a perfect holiday read. It’s uplifting and shows how you can change your life around. The mystery side of the story was fun and ensured that the story was a real pageturner. It kept you guessing throughout and was an enjoyable aspect of the story.
A thoroughly enjoyable read and one that makes you want to keep turning those pages. I felt like I’d lost a friend when I had to reluctantly put the book down upon reaching the end.
June 1, 2022
This is the perfect summer read for escape from this harsh world into the beautiful atmospheric island of Crete. The protagnist is instantly likable as a young woman working in London in a dead end job mourning the loss of her future husband on their wedding day to a drunk driver. She has found herself unable to bear her life of grief or her miserable boss one more day and on impulse flies off to Crete the island of her childhood where her Grandmother had lived. The adventures begin with a mystery to solve of a local winery fire and murder, along with her fabulous new job of working for a world famous travel writer as well as writing for a local paper. Along the way she enjoys fully the culture, food and people of Crete. This is a delight from beginning to conclusion. I like that that while the author includes a love interest she gives our protagnist backbone and the sense to not fall in bed or act like a fool. This author knows how to capture her charcters and give them respectful independence. This woman is taking control of her life and no one is getting in her way. She stands up for herself and creates a beautiful new life and only then does she consider romance. Well done to the author.
July 2, 2024
This was a lovely romantic escape/beach read with a little bit of mystery and suspense thrown in. Who can resist books with vineyards and sunshine? The descriptions were beautiful and made me want to run away to Crete myself! I loved the charming village, the bakeries,and the comfy cottage that Ria found to live in and write at. The book probably would have been a 4 for me except for some of the language thrown in near the very end of the book. I was shocked when a couple of F bombs were used, because they did not fit with the heartwarming charm of the rest of the book. Quite disappointing for me. Books automatically lose a star for me when that word is thrown in. Ugh. Quite unnecessary. All in all, an enjoyable, light read.
I listened to the audio and it was well done, except some of the accents were a little intense and overdone in places.
I listened to the audio and it was well done, except some of the accents were a little intense and overdone in places.
September 10, 2020
At the moment all I can say is wow read it in one day I just didn't want to put it down. The authors writing style is so rich and descriptive it brought the people and scenery of the Chania lifestyle and surroundings alive.
Heartwarming and in parts also heartbreaking. A story that will stay in my heart.
I have also enjoyed The Postcard (novella by this author) and look forward to reading more from Lily Rose Graham in the future if these two books are anything to go by you have a long writing career ahead of you.
Heartwarming and in parts also heartbreaking. A story that will stay in my heart.
I have also enjoyed The Postcard (novella by this author) and look forward to reading more from Lily Rose Graham in the future if these two books are anything to go by you have a long writing career ahead of you.
July 12, 2020
Sweet story
Don’t we all dream of unexpectedly taking a plane to another part of the world , falling in love with the place, the time, the people and a handsome fellow? Throw in a new best friend (who is a world traveler, and knows everybody that is anybody), a mysterious vineyard fire where a body is found, a couple of unlikely detective/journalist, and you have The Summer Escape! A truly feel-good adventure you will be happy too took!
Don’t we all dream of unexpectedly taking a plane to another part of the world , falling in love with the place, the time, the people and a handsome fellow? Throw in a new best friend (who is a world traveler, and knows everybody that is anybody), a mysterious vineyard fire where a body is found, a couple of unlikely detective/journalist, and you have The Summer Escape! A truly feel-good adventure you will be happy too took!
June 11, 2025
The perfect mix!
Just the right measure of everything! I am picky - I seldom give 5 stars, but I didn't want this book to end. A constant tumbling of fire cracker wit and clever humor mixed with real life challenges and hurts, wonderful characters, marvelous settings - sprinkled with a dusting of whimsy, enough to keep the story dreamy, as a good summer read should be! I want more please!
Just the right measure of everything! I am picky - I seldom give 5 stars, but I didn't want this book to end. A constant tumbling of fire cracker wit and clever humor mixed with real life challenges and hurts, wonderful characters, marvelous settings - sprinkled with a dusting of whimsy, enough to keep the story dreamy, as a good summer read should be! I want more please!
November 10, 2025
Wow, what can I say.. I was hooked the minute I started reading and I had a hard time putting it down. I roared when I saw the second line in chapter three, and when ... no I don't want to spoil it for someone who might happen to read this... let's just say it was an amazing love story, mystery and all in all a great book. I LOVED it!
PS, the only reason I did put it down was I started reading it at 10:00 at night, big mistake!
PS, the only reason I did put it down was I started reading it at 10:00 at night, big mistake!
July 20, 2017
I really enjoyed this book.it was a little predictable(I guessed who done it pretty much from the start)bt I still loved th story.the different characters that you got to know.they seemed so real.particularly wld of loved to meet Caroline and Nigel.have been to Chania once bt now have an urge to go back again!would highly recommend this book.
September 6, 2017
I enjoyed this book, found certain coincidences to be a bit beyond belief but it is fiction after all. There was quite a lot of drama going on and I did't really believe the whole Ria and Tom romance too much as if he really loved her and after she explained what had happened to her ex, how could he think she was just a selfish journalist. The ending was also a bit rushed as well I felt.
September 4, 2022
This is the cutest book I’ve ever read oh my goodness one of my new summer favs ahh
The story takes place in Crete, Greece so obviously I had to read the book as I lay on the beaches of Crete. The scenery was beautifully described (although the Elafonissi beach was different in person then the book described) but such a good book!!
The story takes place in Crete, Greece so obviously I had to read the book as I lay on the beaches of Crete. The scenery was beautifully described (although the Elafonissi beach was different in person then the book described) but such a good book!!
May 11, 2017
Good read
I wasn't sure I was going to like this book as I read the first couple of chapters. As it turns out I had a hard time putting it down. Loved the descriptions of the area. Really made me want to visit Crete. The characters were fun, not too deep. Great summer beach read.
I wasn't sure I was going to like this book as I read the first couple of chapters. As it turns out I had a hard time putting it down. Loved the descriptions of the area. Really made me want to visit Crete. The characters were fun, not too deep. Great summer beach read.
August 1, 2018
A very fun romantic read about Crete
There is a little mystery, a little romance, the wonderful setting, and fun characters. While this is a light book, it has some meat and good details. I will read this author again.
There is a little mystery, a little romance, the wonderful setting, and fun characters. While this is a light book, it has some meat and good details. I will read this author again.
November 8, 2018
A delightful read.
One morning on her way to a job she loathes, Ria takes a wrong turn, and it changes her life. Set on the island of Crete, among the olive groves and vineyards, a 10 year old mystery is solved.
Another excellent read by Lily Graham.
One morning on her way to a job she loathes, Ria takes a wrong turn, and it changes her life. Set on the island of Crete, among the olive groves and vineyards, a 10 year old mystery is solved.
Another excellent read by Lily Graham.
July 30, 2019
What a fun summer read. The island of Crete was a lovely setting. I also enjoyed the nontraditional romantic plot and the elements of solving a mystery. The characters were entertaining as well. This book goes into the "to read again" pile for me.
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