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Then. Now. Always.
Hannah can't believe it when she's offered a trip to sunny Spain with her best friend and dreamy boss . . . what's the catch?
Twenty-eight year old Hannah is ready for an adventure. She and her colleagues are in Spain for a month to film a documentary, and it's a dream come true. Not least because Hannah will get to spend long summer days with Theo, her boss (and crush). If only Tom (Hannah's best friend and cameramen) and Claudette (the presenter) would stop getting in the way...
Then things become even more complicated when Nancy, Hannah's half-sister arrives. What on earth is she doing here?
For once in her life, can't Hannah just have one perfect summer, free of any drama?
Twenty-eight year old Hannah is ready for an adventure. She and her colleagues are in Spain for a month to film a documentary, and it's a dream come true. Not least because Hannah will get to spend long summer days with Theo, her boss (and crush). If only Tom (Hannah's best friend and cameramen) and Claudette (the presenter) would stop getting in the way...
Then things become even more complicated when Nancy, Hannah's half-sister arrives. What on earth is she doing here?
For once in her life, can't Hannah just have one perfect summer, free of any drama?
400 pages, Paperback
First published April 20, 2017
38 people are currently reading
881 people want to read
About the author
Isabelle Broom
19 books449 followersIsabelle Broom also writes as Izzy Broom. She is the award-winning author of 13 novels and is published in 14 overseas territories. Having left heat magazine in 2018, where she’d spent over five years as book reviews editor, she began writing full-time alongside continued freelance work. She lives in Suffolk, surrounded by books, family, unruly dogs, and a rooster from the farm next door, which has inexplicably fallen in love with her. Her most recent novel, The French Guesthouse, is arriving on 6 November 2025.
You can follow Izzy on Twitter/X and Instagram/Threads @Isabelle_Broom or find her on Facebook under Isabelle Broom Author.
You can follow Izzy on Twitter/X and Instagram/Threads @Isabelle_Broom or find her on Facebook under Isabelle Broom Author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
April 14, 2017
There are no words to how much I simply loved this book. It is absolutely beautiful romantic and lovely. Such a wonderful read. I would highly recommend to all.
September 8, 2017
This is the best Broom's novel yet!
Review to come.
Review to come.
May 13, 2019
Hannah I wondered how she'd be like me and not like me. Seen as she shares her name with me. She was like me for; liking to sing in the car (great part with Theo), is a dreamer and has a care bear obsession (mine is with teddy bears and certainly didn't stop after childhood). She's unlike me for; liking to sunbathe I'd be red as a lobster and couldn't sit still long enough, is a morning person, I'm not and she cares too much what other people think of her and how they see her (especially regarding her stuffed toys and other belongings in her bedroom, it's her bedroom have what you like in there). She should live her life for herself not others.
Her job takes her to Andalusion on the Spanish coast. I like her job and the setting of the book. Tom is her best friend, Claudette work colleague and Theo the boss she imagined to be having a relationship with in her head. At this moment she's reminding me of a Bridget Jones sort of character. She finds out some differences about the dream version of a person and reality. Her relationships are tested with the arrival of half sister Nancy.
Love is in every place and at every time; it is then, it is now, it is always.
Overall I enjoyed this book it made me want to keep reading and find out what happened to them all.
Her job takes her to Andalusion on the Spanish coast. I like her job and the setting of the book. Tom is her best friend, Claudette work colleague and Theo the boss she imagined to be having a relationship with in her head. At this moment she's reminding me of a Bridget Jones sort of character. She finds out some differences about the dream version of a person and reality. Her relationships are tested with the arrival of half sister Nancy.
Love is in every place and at every time; it is then, it is now, it is always.
Overall I enjoyed this book it made me want to keep reading and find out what happened to them all.
April 20, 2017
Visit the locations in the novel: Then. Now. Always.
Isabelle Broom you really should get a job in a travel agency - actually I’m not sure you could sell anymore holidays if you did? First Greece, then Prague and now Mojacar in Almeria, Spain!
Every book is like a postcard - drawing the best and the quirky from every location sprinkled with the Broom charm of fun characters, meaningful stories, laugh out loud scenes and touching moments.
Hannah has to spend time producing a travelogue and so chooses Mojacar as she remembers the place from her childhood. She goes with her work colleagues but also her boss who she’s secretly pining for. when the blurb asked For just once in her life, can't Hannah have one perfect summer, free of any drama? I thought, haha no, imagining Isabelle Broom rubbling her hands with glee as she wrote it.
There’s plenty of Spanish flavour, Spanish fun and lots of sunshine. It’s a strange sensation returning to a place you’d be known as a child or from years ago and I think Isabelle picks out the feelings of confusion and nostalgia well. The town hasn’t c[hanged too much in many ways, its’ beauty still evident but Hannah changes as a person whilst there. And it’s both a humourous and very moving story! She’s a bit of a wet blanket at the start of the book so well done Mojacar for waving its magic!
‘Mojacar showed me who I was, and who I wanted to be‘
Well Hannah and Isabelle, this book made me want to go to Mojacar and see what magic I might discover there too!
June 22, 2017
Oh my, mea culpa, it took me over two months to sit down and write this review. I think I know why it took me so long - "Then. Now. Always" by Isabelle Broom is getting raving reviews, and really guys, I started reading this book with so many expectations but quickly found myself almost in desperation wondering if I am reading the same book as other people, singing prizes. Don't get me wrong - I adore Isabelle Broom, and her debut novel was absolutely brilliant, but I just couldn't get this newest release, and it made me so sad, as I had so much hope and wanted to love this story so much. But - Isabelle Broom is the ultimate person to turn to when you need to get into holiday mode - she sets her books in the most gorgeous settings and she brings them easily and effortlessly to life. "Then. Now. Always" is set in Spain, in a beautiful, gorgeous town, full of sunshine, adventures and secret places.
So guys, between you and me, there was one thing that almost made the book totally kaput for me. And it was the main character - it is really hard to love a book when the main hero is driving you crazy. Hannah was at the beginning, and through almost the whole story, a pathetic, feeling sorry for herself person who didn't know what she really want. She was unhappy with everything and everybody surrounding her. I admit, it was a risky move from the author to make her character fall in love with her boss but I am sure it was a very conscious move. We know about this crush immediately, so I tried to be patient with Hannah but there came a moment when I couldn't stand wondering what Theo would say or if he's thinking about her at the same moment she's thinking about him, anymore. I liked how this played out however, it was not too cheesy, too fairy - tailish.
Then I couldn't grasp how come people stick with Hannah for so long, with her being so needy and whinge-y and stubborn. She didn't want to hear what other people have to say, and the way she was around Tom... well, she just him took for granted, the same as so many other things in her life. The bickering with her half - sister Nancy was annoying and her saying one thing and then doing the other as well. Hannah wanted to spend one summer without any dramas but let's be honest, wasn't she the one who has created all the problems? I just couldn't get past the fact that the characters were supposed to be adults but behaved like children.
What saved the book for me was the ending. It was not obvious and it was not predictable and I really liked how it turned out. It was different to all the endings. I actually think that if it weren't the weak characters, the book would be perfect. But OK, let's stop with moaning and focus on the good things. It was a great story offering a huge piece of escapism. The events in this book were likeable and there were tricky situations aplenty to make this plot as twisty as the Spanish roads. The author so flawlessly handles the complex story that it was a real pleasure to read. I also appreciate the fact that Isabelle Broom tried to make out of a supposedly lightweight novel a much more emotional and complicated story. Right at the beginning we have this being in love with your own boss situation, which I could feel in my bones is going to end in tears, then she adds a bit of half - sibling rivalry, and while Hannah's sister Nancy was very one - dimensional and predictable, and Hannah's reactions were, in my opinion, much too exaggerated, and the two girls behaved like spoiled, immature teenagers, showing their shallow sides behaving in a really awkward way, this element added some depth and was well captured.
Altogether, this book gives you what you can expect: gorgeous setting of Mojocar, twists and turns, adventures and unconventional romance. It is quick - paced and there is enough of drama to keep you on your tenterhooks. There is this added bonus of Mojocar's history and traditions, myths and legends that I enjoyed very much. A story about building bridges and forgiving and I am really sorry it didn't work for me - I really, truly wanted it to work! However, I am already looking towards Isabelle's next book, I'm sure it's going to be (another) cracker!
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
So guys, between you and me, there was one thing that almost made the book totally kaput for me. And it was the main character - it is really hard to love a book when the main hero is driving you crazy. Hannah was at the beginning, and through almost the whole story, a pathetic, feeling sorry for herself person who didn't know what she really want. She was unhappy with everything and everybody surrounding her. I admit, it was a risky move from the author to make her character fall in love with her boss but I am sure it was a very conscious move. We know about this crush immediately, so I tried to be patient with Hannah but there came a moment when I couldn't stand wondering what Theo would say or if he's thinking about her at the same moment she's thinking about him, anymore. I liked how this played out however, it was not too cheesy, too fairy - tailish.
Then I couldn't grasp how come people stick with Hannah for so long, with her being so needy and whinge-y and stubborn. She didn't want to hear what other people have to say, and the way she was around Tom... well, she just him took for granted, the same as so many other things in her life. The bickering with her half - sister Nancy was annoying and her saying one thing and then doing the other as well. Hannah wanted to spend one summer without any dramas but let's be honest, wasn't she the one who has created all the problems? I just couldn't get past the fact that the characters were supposed to be adults but behaved like children.
What saved the book for me was the ending. It was not obvious and it was not predictable and I really liked how it turned out. It was different to all the endings. I actually think that if it weren't the weak characters, the book would be perfect. But OK, let's stop with moaning and focus on the good things. It was a great story offering a huge piece of escapism. The events in this book were likeable and there were tricky situations aplenty to make this plot as twisty as the Spanish roads. The author so flawlessly handles the complex story that it was a real pleasure to read. I also appreciate the fact that Isabelle Broom tried to make out of a supposedly lightweight novel a much more emotional and complicated story. Right at the beginning we have this being in love with your own boss situation, which I could feel in my bones is going to end in tears, then she adds a bit of half - sibling rivalry, and while Hannah's sister Nancy was very one - dimensional and predictable, and Hannah's reactions were, in my opinion, much too exaggerated, and the two girls behaved like spoiled, immature teenagers, showing their shallow sides behaving in a really awkward way, this element added some depth and was well captured.
Altogether, this book gives you what you can expect: gorgeous setting of Mojocar, twists and turns, adventures and unconventional romance. It is quick - paced and there is enough of drama to keep you on your tenterhooks. There is this added bonus of Mojocar's history and traditions, myths and legends that I enjoyed very much. A story about building bridges and forgiving and I am really sorry it didn't work for me - I really, truly wanted it to work! However, I am already looking towards Isabelle's next book, I'm sure it's going to be (another) cracker!
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
February 7, 2017
Be prepared to be whisked away to a perfect wee place in Spain. Reading this book will leave you heading straight for the travel agents to book a holiday.
Hannah is heading on a work trip for a month to Spain, with her boss that she has a big crush on, her best friend Tom and Claudette her colleague.
But with her drama packed life the drama follows her to Spain with the arrival of her half sister Nancy which puts a strain on Hannah's relationships with her colleagues and her best friends Tom and Rachel.
The way the author has described the destination is fantastic and leaves you dreaming of a holiday there, you visualise every part of Hannah's trip and the surroundings are perfect - even when it rains.
This is definitely a book to watch out for this summer.
Hannah is heading on a work trip for a month to Spain, with her boss that she has a big crush on, her best friend Tom and Claudette her colleague.
But with her drama packed life the drama follows her to Spain with the arrival of her half sister Nancy which puts a strain on Hannah's relationships with her colleagues and her best friends Tom and Rachel.
The way the author has described the destination is fantastic and leaves you dreaming of a holiday there, you visualise every part of Hannah's trip and the surroundings are perfect - even when it rains.
This is definitely a book to watch out for this summer.
February 10, 2017
I've struggled with this review because I really loved Isabelle Broom's previous book and I appreciate the effort involved in writing a book. However, I really did have a difficult time connecting with this novel.
Stars are earned for a fantastic location which sounds idyllic, the Spanish paradise of Mojacar; as done previously with Prague, the author transports you to the sights and history of the area, and the ancient mystical Indalo stories were captivating. What was lacking for me was a gripping plot line amongst the characters which I just unfortunately found shallow and stereotyped. The main character was immature, spent the whole book focussed on impressing a man which i really didn't connect with, it all seemed very teenage drama and her uttering "I hate you all" and sulking when she didn't get her own way only furthered my disappointment. I can understand due to her childhood the inner child that never grew up and the animosity she felt towards her half sister but despite the heart to heart at the end of the book I still didn't feel a huge amount of sympathy for her or that her demeanour was justified, I just couldn't get past the needy swooning and tantrums. I just prefer an inspirational independent character in novels, and certainly a greater sense of sisterhood amongst the female characters than this book which really did seem to pit most of them against one another. Unfortunately not my type of book.
Stars are earned for a fantastic location which sounds idyllic, the Spanish paradise of Mojacar; as done previously with Prague, the author transports you to the sights and history of the area, and the ancient mystical Indalo stories were captivating. What was lacking for me was a gripping plot line amongst the characters which I just unfortunately found shallow and stereotyped. The main character was immature, spent the whole book focussed on impressing a man which i really didn't connect with, it all seemed very teenage drama and her uttering "I hate you all" and sulking when she didn't get her own way only furthered my disappointment. I can understand due to her childhood the inner child that never grew up and the animosity she felt towards her half sister but despite the heart to heart at the end of the book I still didn't feel a huge amount of sympathy for her or that her demeanour was justified, I just couldn't get past the needy swooning and tantrums. I just prefer an inspirational independent character in novels, and certainly a greater sense of sisterhood amongst the female characters than this book which really did seem to pit most of them against one another. Unfortunately not my type of book.
July 20, 2018
This was one that was a slow burner for me but i love this authors writing style. the setting is just stunning as in her other books - makes you want to visit each location - which was funny as my cousin was on holiday in Mojacar whilst i was reading the book. Enjoyed the characters and their relationships and basically cannot wait till the next book.
July 8, 2025
Nice to read on a vacation as the characters are themselves on it, but the descriptions of Spain didn't have enough pull for me to like it. Neither the characters nor the storyline interested me.
April 20, 2017
‘Hannah can’t believe it when she’s offered a trip to sunny Spain with her best friend and dreamy boss . . . what’s the catch?’
Then. Now. Always. is the new release from Isabelle Broom.
Published by Michael Joseph Books (Penguin), prepare for pure escapism to the Almeria region of Spain for a little sunshine and sangria.
If there’s one thing Isabelle Broom does brilliantly in her novels, it is the evocation of place.
In her previous novels the reader has journeyed to Greece and to Prague but inThen. Now. Always., we are swept off to the province of Almeria located on the South East coast of Spain overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
Hannah Hodges works in a media production team. Completely infatuated with her Greek boss Theo, Hannah spends her days dreaming of the future they could have. Having never spent any ‘real’ time in his company, Hannah is beside herself when asked to join Theo and the team on location in Mojacar, a village in Almeria.
It is Hannah who first introduced the idea of doing a feature on Mojacar, as it is a place that she holds very dear to her heart. Having spent many a holiday there with her best friend, Rachel during their teenage years and in her early twenties, Hannah has very special memories of this glorious region of Spain.
Hannah’s home life has not been the best, with her father leaving herself and her mum when she was quite young. Now, with a stepsister Nancy that Hannah appears to despise and a love-life that permanently resides in her head, Hannah is ready for adventure.
On arrival in Mojacar, memories come flooding back. Hannah quickly remembers the fun she used to have and decides that this trip is the perfect time to make a few changes in her life, one of these being her relationship with Theo. Up to this point Hannah always remained in the background. She was always up for a laugh and a few jars down the pub but now she wants Theo to see a more mature Hannah, a person he could easily fall for.
Hannah finds out quite a lot about herself on this trip and really goes on a pilgrimage of self discovery. I have to be honest and say that this was a journey that was more than necessary. Up to this point Hannah’s relationships with people was quite childish and immature as she herself alluded to at one point that her grumbling represented that of ‘a sulky teenager’
Hannah at times sweet, at times naive and many times quite childish discovers that she needs to re-evaluate her life and decide what it is she truly wants to be.
One very interesting individual that Hannah meets, who helps her on this journey, is Elaine. Elaine is an artist who has lived in the village for years. Originally from England, Elaine settled in Mojacar after an unsettled upbringing and made a home for herself amidst the scent of lemons and the sound of the cicadas.
‘I’ll never forget how it felt to look up at the Old Town for the very first time….Mojacar is unique in that the view looking up from the playa towards the village is actually better than the one up here looking back down to sea..’
Hannah and Elaine develop a very strong connection over the few weeks and Hannah soon realises that Elaine’s secrets run deep. I think this is the point where Hannah finally grows up
‘Mojacar showed me who I was, and who I wanted to be'
Scattered throughout Then. Now. Always. is references to the beauty of Mojacar, and it is within these descriptions that I got totally lost for awhile.
‘On the south-east coast of Spain, in the final foothills of Sierra Cabrera, there is a place both hidden and proud. A village that seems to shimmer as you look upon it, the cluster of the white buildings a honeycomb shot through with moonbeams of colour. There is a neat harmony of simplicity here, an exquisite union of nature and creation, and as you take the steep pathway leading into the heart of this architectural utopia, you will feel your spirit begin to sing.'
Then. Now. Always. is not just a story of a young woman finding her way. It is much much more than that. Isabelle Broom writes beautifully and very passionately about a place that is obviously so very special to her. I have never been to Mojacar but as a result of this book I have been trawling the Internet looking for holiday deals so that I can too can absorb and witness the beauty of a place that sounds like my idea of paradise. Mojacar is described so exquisitely by Isabelle Broom….go discover a slice of sunshine yourself by picking up a copy of this enchanting book.
Then. Now. Always. is the new release from Isabelle Broom.
Published by Michael Joseph Books (Penguin), prepare for pure escapism to the Almeria region of Spain for a little sunshine and sangria.
If there’s one thing Isabelle Broom does brilliantly in her novels, it is the evocation of place.
In her previous novels the reader has journeyed to Greece and to Prague but inThen. Now. Always., we are swept off to the province of Almeria located on the South East coast of Spain overlooking the Mediterranean Sea.
Hannah Hodges works in a media production team. Completely infatuated with her Greek boss Theo, Hannah spends her days dreaming of the future they could have. Having never spent any ‘real’ time in his company, Hannah is beside herself when asked to join Theo and the team on location in Mojacar, a village in Almeria.
It is Hannah who first introduced the idea of doing a feature on Mojacar, as it is a place that she holds very dear to her heart. Having spent many a holiday there with her best friend, Rachel during their teenage years and in her early twenties, Hannah has very special memories of this glorious region of Spain.
Hannah’s home life has not been the best, with her father leaving herself and her mum when she was quite young. Now, with a stepsister Nancy that Hannah appears to despise and a love-life that permanently resides in her head, Hannah is ready for adventure.
On arrival in Mojacar, memories come flooding back. Hannah quickly remembers the fun she used to have and decides that this trip is the perfect time to make a few changes in her life, one of these being her relationship with Theo. Up to this point Hannah always remained in the background. She was always up for a laugh and a few jars down the pub but now she wants Theo to see a more mature Hannah, a person he could easily fall for.
Hannah finds out quite a lot about herself on this trip and really goes on a pilgrimage of self discovery. I have to be honest and say that this was a journey that was more than necessary. Up to this point Hannah’s relationships with people was quite childish and immature as she herself alluded to at one point that her grumbling represented that of ‘a sulky teenager’
Hannah at times sweet, at times naive and many times quite childish discovers that she needs to re-evaluate her life and decide what it is she truly wants to be.
One very interesting individual that Hannah meets, who helps her on this journey, is Elaine. Elaine is an artist who has lived in the village for years. Originally from England, Elaine settled in Mojacar after an unsettled upbringing and made a home for herself amidst the scent of lemons and the sound of the cicadas.
‘I’ll never forget how it felt to look up at the Old Town for the very first time….Mojacar is unique in that the view looking up from the playa towards the village is actually better than the one up here looking back down to sea..’
Hannah and Elaine develop a very strong connection over the few weeks and Hannah soon realises that Elaine’s secrets run deep. I think this is the point where Hannah finally grows up
‘Mojacar showed me who I was, and who I wanted to be'
Scattered throughout Then. Now. Always. is references to the beauty of Mojacar, and it is within these descriptions that I got totally lost for awhile.
‘On the south-east coast of Spain, in the final foothills of Sierra Cabrera, there is a place both hidden and proud. A village that seems to shimmer as you look upon it, the cluster of the white buildings a honeycomb shot through with moonbeams of colour. There is a neat harmony of simplicity here, an exquisite union of nature and creation, and as you take the steep pathway leading into the heart of this architectural utopia, you will feel your spirit begin to sing.'
Then. Now. Always. is not just a story of a young woman finding her way. It is much much more than that. Isabelle Broom writes beautifully and very passionately about a place that is obviously so very special to her. I have never been to Mojacar but as a result of this book I have been trawling the Internet looking for holiday deals so that I can too can absorb and witness the beauty of a place that sounds like my idea of paradise. Mojacar is described so exquisitely by Isabelle Broom….go discover a slice of sunshine yourself by picking up a copy of this enchanting book.
April 19, 2017
Set in the beautiful town of Mojacar in Spain, this is an enchanting story, focusing on Hannah, and her half sister Nancy and her crush Theo, which by the time the book had finished left me with goosebumps, as the ending was rather unexpected.
Having read Then. Now. Always I feel as though I was transported to Mojacar and could probably find my way around the town reasonably well. It is one of those hidden gems of Spain, that isn't overrun with tourists and has a mystical history, which is what Hannah and her colleagues are most interested in.
Hannah went on holiday to Mojacar for three summers when she was a teenager and has never forgotten the place, so when the company she is working for wants to do a documentary about a place with an interesting history, she puts the town forward and is delighted when she is allowed to accompany the others on the month long production trip.
Theo is Hannah's boss, and she has had a long term crush on him for years, and is hoping this Spanish trip will be the opportunity to make an impression on him. Tom, the cameraman is also on the trip, and he is Hannah's best friend, although people seem to think there could more to their relationship than meets the eye. Claudette is the French presenter of this documentary, who will be sharing an apartment with Hannah and they really are quite different, so Claudette adds quite a bit of background colour to the book.
However Hannah isn't too pleased when her half sister Nancy shows up in Mojacar, without any notice or explanation, especially since she has a complicated relationship with her. All of the dynamics of the group change once Nancy arrives and I found it really interesting to see how things unfolded, especially trying to work out the reason she is in Spain.
Then. Now. Always is a story of relationships and friendship, with a stunning setting, beautiful descriptions and it was a book that kept me engaged from start to finish. I wanted to keep checking in with the characters to see how they were getting on, and to catch more sun! I have a feeling this book could do wonders for tourism in Almeria and it definitely has made me want to catch a fligh!
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Michael Joseph for this copy of the book which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Having read Then. Now. Always I feel as though I was transported to Mojacar and could probably find my way around the town reasonably well. It is one of those hidden gems of Spain, that isn't overrun with tourists and has a mystical history, which is what Hannah and her colleagues are most interested in.
Hannah went on holiday to Mojacar for three summers when she was a teenager and has never forgotten the place, so when the company she is working for wants to do a documentary about a place with an interesting history, she puts the town forward and is delighted when she is allowed to accompany the others on the month long production trip.
Theo is Hannah's boss, and she has had a long term crush on him for years, and is hoping this Spanish trip will be the opportunity to make an impression on him. Tom, the cameraman is also on the trip, and he is Hannah's best friend, although people seem to think there could more to their relationship than meets the eye. Claudette is the French presenter of this documentary, who will be sharing an apartment with Hannah and they really are quite different, so Claudette adds quite a bit of background colour to the book.
However Hannah isn't too pleased when her half sister Nancy shows up in Mojacar, without any notice or explanation, especially since she has a complicated relationship with her. All of the dynamics of the group change once Nancy arrives and I found it really interesting to see how things unfolded, especially trying to work out the reason she is in Spain.
Then. Now. Always is a story of relationships and friendship, with a stunning setting, beautiful descriptions and it was a book that kept me engaged from start to finish. I wanted to keep checking in with the characters to see how they were getting on, and to catch more sun! I have a feeling this book could do wonders for tourism in Almeria and it definitely has made me want to catch a fligh!
Thank you so much to Netgalley and Michael Joseph for this copy of the book which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
August 21, 2018
Enjoyable
Took a while for me to get into this but eventually I startrf to really enjoy it. I wished it hadn't ended the way it did because I want to know more now
Took a while for me to get into this but eventually I startrf to really enjoy it. I wished it hadn't ended the way it did because I want to know more now
November 9, 2017
Isabelle Broom is a new writer on the block, but she’s no slouch and by the end of 2017 she’ll have released four books in the span of one year and seven months! *Head explodes* Isabelle Broom is my kind of author, and I hope she can keep up her two books per year pace because she’s a cracking writer. I really enjoyed My Map of You and I was so looking forward to Then. Now. Always. And I wasn’t disappointed at all and I am dying (DYING!) to go to Mojacar for a visit, a place I had never heard of before reading this book, so bravo Isabelle for setting a book somewhere no one has ever heard of it! I am totally keeping it in my head for a jaunt on Pointless one day. It’s bound to win the jackpot!
There aren’t many authors who write books in different destinations abroad (I am still weeping over the fact Belinda Jones has disappeared into the ether) but Isabelle Broom has taken over the mantle perfectly, with books set in Greece, Spain, Prague and (the upcoming) Lake Como. The best thing is Isabelle writes so provocatively; so beautifully, her descriptions are out of this world amazing, and she really makes you feel like you’re there with her characters, that you’re experiencing the heat and the sights and the smells.
Then. Now. Always. is one of those books you devour. I was hooked from page one, when Hannah confesses to having a major crush on her boss, Theo, in such an honest way you can’t help but love her. The trip to Mojacar is her chance to prove her worth to Theo, and she’s determined to make her time in Spain count. Until her sister (sorry, step-sister) Nancy gatecrashes and things don’t seem to be going as swimmingly as Hannah would like… Especially when her best friend, Tom, seems quite enamoured with Nancy (which, dude, is gross. There’s a bro code, bloody well stick to it. Barney Stinson would be rolling in his grave, if that bus had killed him. Which it didn’t. Bros do not date/like/anything other bros sisters or step-sisters).
Hannah is super easy to like, until Nancy comes on to the scene and they basically revert to two teenagers dying to be the one to get someone’s affection. Hannah acts like Nancy is this big monster, come to ruin her life and Hannah doesn’t actually stop (at all) to let Nancy confess why she’s come to Mojacar (which, considering their relationship, should have set alarm bells off all over the place, and Hannah should maybe have took her head out of her bum to wonder why other than to suspect sabotage) and she continually brushes her off and it’s almost like there’s two sides of Hannah. There’s the lovely, sweet girl, doing the interviews with ex-pat Elaine, and then there’s the Hannah who turns into a sulky teenager with everyone whenever Nancy is in the vicinity and I just kind of wanted to punch her in the face and tell her to grow up. We get it! Your dad left your mum and moved on with Nancy’s mum, perhaps overlapping (sounds like they need Jezza to come sort things out) but the pure hatred for Nancy seemed a bit OTT even with all the so-called evidence that may have been exaggerated??
On the whole, I did like Hannah. I felt like the trip to Mojacar did change her life, just not how she expected it to and while it did take her a while to finally stop reverting to a sullen teenager around Nancy, I liked how their relationship panned out (and I knew Nancy’s secret well before anybody else). It was the setting, though, that I loved so much. Mojacar sounded absolutely fantastic and I loved Elaine’s story as to why she moved there and the Indalo Man superstition was brilliant. I’ve never heard of it, though according to Wikipedia it features on houses all over Europe, but it was fascinating to learn all about it.
Overall, I really enjoyed Now. Then. Always. I had a couple of issues with Hannah, as I mentioned but it was on balance a brilliant read. The cast was amazing, the setting was out of this world incredible, and I really think Isabelle’s books should come with free holidays for all, because it’s incredibly cruel to tease us with such fantastic destinations without giving us something in return! Isabelle is one of the best new writers to appear within the last couple of years and long may she transport me to places I’ve never visited, because you do really feel like you’re there with her characters, her writing is just so evocative. I can’t wait for her next book, The Place We Met. I’m already planning my trip to Italy in my head…
There aren’t many authors who write books in different destinations abroad (I am still weeping over the fact Belinda Jones has disappeared into the ether) but Isabelle Broom has taken over the mantle perfectly, with books set in Greece, Spain, Prague and (the upcoming) Lake Como. The best thing is Isabelle writes so provocatively; so beautifully, her descriptions are out of this world amazing, and she really makes you feel like you’re there with her characters, that you’re experiencing the heat and the sights and the smells.
Then. Now. Always. is one of those books you devour. I was hooked from page one, when Hannah confesses to having a major crush on her boss, Theo, in such an honest way you can’t help but love her. The trip to Mojacar is her chance to prove her worth to Theo, and she’s determined to make her time in Spain count. Until her sister (sorry, step-sister) Nancy gatecrashes and things don’t seem to be going as swimmingly as Hannah would like… Especially when her best friend, Tom, seems quite enamoured with Nancy (which, dude, is gross. There’s a bro code, bloody well stick to it. Barney Stinson would be rolling in his grave, if that bus had killed him. Which it didn’t. Bros do not date/like/anything other bros sisters or step-sisters).
Hannah is super easy to like, until Nancy comes on to the scene and they basically revert to two teenagers dying to be the one to get someone’s affection. Hannah acts like Nancy is this big monster, come to ruin her life and Hannah doesn’t actually stop (at all) to let Nancy confess why she’s come to Mojacar (which, considering their relationship, should have set alarm bells off all over the place, and Hannah should maybe have took her head out of her bum to wonder why other than to suspect sabotage) and she continually brushes her off and it’s almost like there’s two sides of Hannah. There’s the lovely, sweet girl, doing the interviews with ex-pat Elaine, and then there’s the Hannah who turns into a sulky teenager with everyone whenever Nancy is in the vicinity and I just kind of wanted to punch her in the face and tell her to grow up. We get it! Your dad left your mum and moved on with Nancy’s mum, perhaps overlapping (sounds like they need Jezza to come sort things out) but the pure hatred for Nancy seemed a bit OTT even with all the so-called evidence that may have been exaggerated??
On the whole, I did like Hannah. I felt like the trip to Mojacar did change her life, just not how she expected it to and while it did take her a while to finally stop reverting to a sullen teenager around Nancy, I liked how their relationship panned out (and I knew Nancy’s secret well before anybody else). It was the setting, though, that I loved so much. Mojacar sounded absolutely fantastic and I loved Elaine’s story as to why she moved there and the Indalo Man superstition was brilliant. I’ve never heard of it, though according to Wikipedia it features on houses all over Europe, but it was fascinating to learn all about it.
Overall, I really enjoyed Now. Then. Always. I had a couple of issues with Hannah, as I mentioned but it was on balance a brilliant read. The cast was amazing, the setting was out of this world incredible, and I really think Isabelle’s books should come with free holidays for all, because it’s incredibly cruel to tease us with such fantastic destinations without giving us something in return! Isabelle is one of the best new writers to appear within the last couple of years and long may she transport me to places I’ve never visited, because you do really feel like you’re there with her characters, her writing is just so evocative. I can’t wait for her next book, The Place We Met. I’m already planning my trip to Italy in my head…
February 25, 2017
A lovely read that takes you to the heat of a Spanish village in summer - and the weather is not all that's sizzling! I loved the descriptions of Spain and the characters were deftly brought to life. The ending wasn't contrived or trite so all in all a great romantic read to take on holiday with you or just curl up in front of the fire and dream of heady days to come.
April 12, 2020
This was utter perfection. I was whisked away to an idyllic and secret part of Spain. By the time I had finished this book I was ready to pack my bags and go off on an adventure. It was an awful pity that I had work the next day…
I could visualise every part of this journey, the descriptions left me dreaming of a holiday. To be honest it just wasn’t Spain that was sizzling. The romance was pretty hot as well. A fit Greek man? Yes please. I could see why Hannah had fallen for him.
I loved the bickering between Hannah and Nancy. They may be sisters, but their relationship is not easy, I loved the tension in the beginning. And it was the fact that they were forced together that made them learn to trust one another. Nancy certainly added plenty of drama to the story. Especially as I wasn’t entirely sure why Nancy was there. Or more precisely, why she decided to visit Hannah.
This felt completely different to A Year and a Day despite shouting about a beautiful destination and showing off the magic a different place can have. I can say without a doubt that Isabelle Broome is one of my favourite authors and I cannot wait to read her next book.
This is a gorgeous summer read. Perfect for that lazy day of sitting by the pool. Or just the day of wishing that you were sitting by the pool. It is about romance and escapism and finding out that the love you want may not be the love you need.
If you are after something sizzling then look no further. Let the wanderlust begin!
Reviews can also be found on my blog Escapades of a Bookworm
I could visualise every part of this journey, the descriptions left me dreaming of a holiday. To be honest it just wasn’t Spain that was sizzling. The romance was pretty hot as well. A fit Greek man? Yes please. I could see why Hannah had fallen for him.
I loved the bickering between Hannah and Nancy. They may be sisters, but their relationship is not easy, I loved the tension in the beginning. And it was the fact that they were forced together that made them learn to trust one another. Nancy certainly added plenty of drama to the story. Especially as I wasn’t entirely sure why Nancy was there. Or more precisely, why she decided to visit Hannah.
This felt completely different to A Year and a Day despite shouting about a beautiful destination and showing off the magic a different place can have. I can say without a doubt that Isabelle Broome is one of my favourite authors and I cannot wait to read her next book.
This is a gorgeous summer read. Perfect for that lazy day of sitting by the pool. Or just the day of wishing that you were sitting by the pool. It is about romance and escapism and finding out that the love you want may not be the love you need.
If you are after something sizzling then look no further. Let the wanderlust begin!
Reviews can also be found on my blog Escapades of a Bookworm
February 23, 2018
I wanted to give this book 5 stars - I really did. But i heard the small, very tiny voice in my head that was so surprised by the ending of this book in a bittersweet way that I had to pull out a star. Do not get me wrong, this book was brilliant - I loved the humour, I loved the characters. Hannah was easy to laugh with and relate to. I wound up liking each and every character in the book, especially Elaine. So the people who have read the book know why the ending was bittersweet - I was ecstatic for Elaine and maybe not so much for the other part
This book can almost serve as a travelogue for Mojacar. Such stirring descriptions - my imagination was right along with Hannah inhaling the scents and visualizing the scenery and gave me a good dose of travel-lust.
There was emotional growth, there was friendship, there was sibling drama and there was romance. I can feel the author deliberately dropping hints throughout the book, making you want to turn every page and get to the end of the story and when you did there was a worthy emotional payoff but not the kind I expected, it was different and yet so lovely. Things in life aren't always epic and movie-like and sometimes that's okay
A very enjoyable read and I look forward to reading more from this author
This book can almost serve as a travelogue for Mojacar. Such stirring descriptions - my imagination was right along with Hannah inhaling the scents and visualizing the scenery and gave me a good dose of travel-lust.
There was emotional growth, there was friendship, there was sibling drama and there was romance. I can feel the author deliberately dropping hints throughout the book, making you want to turn every page and get to the end of the story and when you did there was a worthy emotional payoff but not the kind I expected, it was different and yet so lovely. Things in life aren't always epic and movie-like and sometimes that's okay
A very enjoyable read and I look forward to reading more from this author
September 28, 2017
I am really happy to have read this book from Isabelle Broom - the second book I read from her and for the second time I am very happy with my read! More that happy even! It's one of the best book that I have read this year so far! It's quite a large book but this book is a page-turner. It's so well written! I read A LOT of chicklit books and this one is very intelligent and high-quality chick-lit type of book. The story line is very different from any other chicklit book I read this year so far and it's very nice for a change! Also this book makes us travel in a very lovely seaside little village in Spain and I loved it! It was so well described that I could picture myself there too! This book was full of events, full of surprises and this until the last page! I absolutely LOVED it! Isabelle Broom is becoming quickly one of my favorite author!
March 1, 2017
This book was a slow burner. Once you get past the first couple of chapters you won't want to set it down. A feel good story. I liked it
March 27, 2017
This is the first of Isabelle Broom's books which I have read having somehow not got around to previous books such as My Map of You and A Year and a Day which I have heard others raving about. Be warned that if you haven't already booked your summer holiday before your read this book, you will want to go to Spain after you've read it!
One thing I had heard about Isabelle Broom's novels were that she creates an amazing sense of place and that was absolutely true. In fact, last week I read about one blogger who had just returned from a trip to Prague having booked it after reading A Year and a Day.
The storyline follows Hannah, a tv researcher who has the opportunity to go to Mojacar in Southern Spain with her boss Theo who she has a huge crush on, her best friend Tom and Claudette, the presenter who Hannah doesn't have much time for. She hopes that among the beautiful surroundings and in the heat, some passion may grow between her and Theo as she uses her knowledge of Mojacar to show him around and impress him. While there, she meets artist Elaine and becomes friends with her as she finds out more about the artist's colony which used to be in the town. To her annoyance, her half-sister Nancy turns up unexpectedly. She has never really got along with Nancy, feeling resentful of her relationship with their father, who left Hannah's mother when Hannah was only two.
The setting of this book, Mojacar is a town in Southern Spain which is in the Almeria region, close to the Mediterranean Sea and is stunningly beautiful. The author's descriptions of the town reminded me very much of Mijas, further along the coast not far from Malaga, where I have spent several holidays. Isabelle Broom paints a vivid picture making easy to visualise the white of the houses shimmering in the heat with splashes of pink from the bougainvillea trailing over balconies and the deep blue of the sky and the sea. I could imagine the heat of the sun, the coolness of the sea and almost smell the lemons in the air. The author certainly created a perfect sense of the location of her novel.
I enjoyed following Hannah as she lusted after her gorgeous boss and tried to engineer ways for them to be together. She reminded me a little of the hapless Bridget Jones with her lovelife though was much more together than Bridget in her professional life. The relationship between Hannah and Nancy was really interesting too. Hannah felt abandoned by her father and that he favoured Nancy. I could completely understand her hurt at being let down at some crucial points in her life such as when her dad didn't come to a school show or didn't take her to a friend's party in a country manor. She was clearly hurting and saw Nancy as the source of this rejection. The way the relationship between the sisters developed over the course of the book was a really strong part of the story for me.
Then. Now. Always., a quote from the book about love in case you were wondering, is a very enjoyable read, perfect to get you in the mood for a holiday or to enjoy on a lazy sunny afternoon. It's escapist and romantic and shows that the love you think you want, isn't always the love you really need.
One thing I had heard about Isabelle Broom's novels were that she creates an amazing sense of place and that was absolutely true. In fact, last week I read about one blogger who had just returned from a trip to Prague having booked it after reading A Year and a Day.
The storyline follows Hannah, a tv researcher who has the opportunity to go to Mojacar in Southern Spain with her boss Theo who she has a huge crush on, her best friend Tom and Claudette, the presenter who Hannah doesn't have much time for. She hopes that among the beautiful surroundings and in the heat, some passion may grow between her and Theo as she uses her knowledge of Mojacar to show him around and impress him. While there, she meets artist Elaine and becomes friends with her as she finds out more about the artist's colony which used to be in the town. To her annoyance, her half-sister Nancy turns up unexpectedly. She has never really got along with Nancy, feeling resentful of her relationship with their father, who left Hannah's mother when Hannah was only two.
The setting of this book, Mojacar is a town in Southern Spain which is in the Almeria region, close to the Mediterranean Sea and is stunningly beautiful. The author's descriptions of the town reminded me very much of Mijas, further along the coast not far from Malaga, where I have spent several holidays. Isabelle Broom paints a vivid picture making easy to visualise the white of the houses shimmering in the heat with splashes of pink from the bougainvillea trailing over balconies and the deep blue of the sky and the sea. I could imagine the heat of the sun, the coolness of the sea and almost smell the lemons in the air. The author certainly created a perfect sense of the location of her novel.
I enjoyed following Hannah as she lusted after her gorgeous boss and tried to engineer ways for them to be together. She reminded me a little of the hapless Bridget Jones with her lovelife though was much more together than Bridget in her professional life. The relationship between Hannah and Nancy was really interesting too. Hannah felt abandoned by her father and that he favoured Nancy. I could completely understand her hurt at being let down at some crucial points in her life such as when her dad didn't come to a school show or didn't take her to a friend's party in a country manor. She was clearly hurting and saw Nancy as the source of this rejection. The way the relationship between the sisters developed over the course of the book was a really strong part of the story for me.
Then. Now. Always., a quote from the book about love in case you were wondering, is a very enjoyable read, perfect to get you in the mood for a holiday or to enjoy on a lazy sunny afternoon. It's escapist and romantic and shows that the love you think you want, isn't always the love you really need.
April 20, 2017
Then. Now. Always by Isabelle Broom is a contemporary romance that I really loved and devoured.
Then. Now. Always is a study of love, life and human relationships. We all need love to function. It comes in different forms, all of which are valuable.
The novel encapsulates hope, using the motif of rainbows. "I come here every morning to watch the rainbows." Rainbows offer the promise of something brighter to come after the rain. "The darkness that had enveloped her is pierced now with brightness: the future contains hope."
Another theme is that of appearances. People may show one face to the world but the person behind the smile may be very different.
Everyone needs friends. Friends who will support you no matter what. The novel has a very beautiful friendship in it which the reader observes.
Family is important. Family relationships can be difficult. Past hurts may influence relationships. Fractured families may project hurt and insecurities but ultimately everyone is looking for love. "Family is everything."
Fantasy and reality collide within the novel. "Fantasies are safe... Reality is very different." With the novel being written in the first person, the reader is privy to the fantasies of Hannah. The reader also witnesses when reality kicks in.
Isabelle Broom has some wonderful vivid descriptions within the novel. The reader experiences a real treat as they travel to the warmth of a Spanish village. The scenery comes alive for the reader who travels without ever leaving the sofa. Isabelle Broom's novels are always set in exotic locations, tantalising the reader's senses and contrasting with the darker British weather.
Isabelle Broom has presented a fabulous study of what is important in life - family, friendship and love in its various guises. Then. Now. Always is a delectable read and highly recommended.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
Then. Now. Always is a study of love, life and human relationships. We all need love to function. It comes in different forms, all of which are valuable.
The novel encapsulates hope, using the motif of rainbows. "I come here every morning to watch the rainbows." Rainbows offer the promise of something brighter to come after the rain. "The darkness that had enveloped her is pierced now with brightness: the future contains hope."
Another theme is that of appearances. People may show one face to the world but the person behind the smile may be very different.
Everyone needs friends. Friends who will support you no matter what. The novel has a very beautiful friendship in it which the reader observes.
Family is important. Family relationships can be difficult. Past hurts may influence relationships. Fractured families may project hurt and insecurities but ultimately everyone is looking for love. "Family is everything."
Fantasy and reality collide within the novel. "Fantasies are safe... Reality is very different." With the novel being written in the first person, the reader is privy to the fantasies of Hannah. The reader also witnesses when reality kicks in.
Isabelle Broom has some wonderful vivid descriptions within the novel. The reader experiences a real treat as they travel to the warmth of a Spanish village. The scenery comes alive for the reader who travels without ever leaving the sofa. Isabelle Broom's novels are always set in exotic locations, tantalising the reader's senses and contrasting with the darker British weather.
Isabelle Broom has presented a fabulous study of what is important in life - family, friendship and love in its various guises. Then. Now. Always is a delectable read and highly recommended.
I received this book for free. A favourable review was not required and all views expressed are my own.
July 28, 2017
I've read Isabelle Broom before, so I knew pretty much what to expect. And like the previous book, the setting of the story (Mojacar) is very well described. I can almost feel the schorching sun, the heat and can smell the bloom of the bougenvillaes. At first, I thought that it's Majorca not Mojacar, I've never heard this small town before, and then when I googled it, like Hannah, I was stunned..because of its prettinest. Hands down to Isabell broom on describing the beauty of Mojacar.
About the story, it's not merely romance between the heroine, our lovely Hannah with her everlasting crush a.k.a his Boss (Theo), but it delve deeper on another form of love. Love between bestfriends, love between sisters, love between family. Although I can guess pretty much what happened to Nancy (Hannah's sister) I still be able to enjoy their sisterly dynamic. From jealousy and hatred, to sisterly friendship. An adding point is the story about Elaine, it added another colour to the already colourful story of Mojacar Isabell Broom's already woven.
About the story, it's not merely romance between the heroine, our lovely Hannah with her everlasting crush a.k.a his Boss (Theo), but it delve deeper on another form of love. Love between bestfriends, love between sisters, love between family. Although I can guess pretty much what happened to Nancy (Hannah's sister) I still be able to enjoy their sisterly dynamic. From jealousy and hatred, to sisterly friendship. An adding point is the story about Elaine, it added another colour to the already colourful story of Mojacar Isabell Broom's already woven.
June 13, 2017
I was seduced by the cover and setting of this book rather than the storyline. I really enjoyed the descriptions of the spanish town of Mojacar and could definitely picture the scenes well. I liked the plot but found some of the characters stereotypical and immature. Having said that I'm sure the book was pitched at a younger reader than me so feel that a four star rating is fair. Perfect if you're looking for a beach/pool read!
August 18, 2018
Hannah can't believe it when she's offered a trip to sunny Spain with her best friend and dreamy boss . . . what's the catch?
An excellent Summer read with just the right doses of romance, sun, sea and drama. Isabella Broom has the creative power to transport you to far off shores and this book is no exception. If you’re looking for your next holiday this book will sell it for you and the beautiful setting of Mojacar in Almeria (Spain) will have you craving sunshine. This book will have you hooked and just when you think it’s leading you down one path there will be a twist and you’ll go a completely different way. Predictable? No!
An excellent Summer read with just the right doses of romance, sun, sea and drama. Isabella Broom has the creative power to transport you to far off shores and this book is no exception. If you’re looking for your next holiday this book will sell it for you and the beautiful setting of Mojacar in Almeria (Spain) will have you craving sunshine. This book will have you hooked and just when you think it’s leading you down one path there will be a twist and you’ll go a completely different way. Predictable? No!
May 25, 2017
I absolutely loved this book! I haven't really read much of this genre before so didn't know what to expect so I was very pleasantly surprised! It made me laugh out loud at times with relatable moments, Hannah's thoughts about Theo are just spot on👌😂, and I was engrossed throughout - I could barely put it down these last few days!
And it's SO beautifully written. I could see Mojacar perfectly and now that I've discovered it's a real place I really want to go - partly just because this book is so sunny that it made me crave a warm holiday.
This was the first book of Isabelle Broom's I've read (and it's a proof copy so extra special introduction to her books) but I will definitely be reading more. If they're anything like this, then I think I'll love them!
And it's SO beautifully written. I could see Mojacar perfectly and now that I've discovered it's a real place I really want to go - partly just because this book is so sunny that it made me crave a warm holiday.
This was the first book of Isabelle Broom's I've read (and it's a proof copy so extra special introduction to her books) but I will definitely be reading more. If they're anything like this, then I think I'll love them!
April 3, 2017
Lovely tale of a magical town in Spain.
- updated -
What a beautiful book, that realty evokes life in a small sleepy village in Spain. Makes you want to pack your bags and move there. Isabelle Broom has a way with words! She is able to create both sadness and happiness in every situation - crafting a rainbow as she goes (which is a good allegory for the book!).
This book has a lot more to offer than meets the eye - it's worth a read and is a good mood changer away from all those thrillers!
Enjoyable, inspiring and evocative of sunny days - 4* from me.
- updated -
What a beautiful book, that realty evokes life in a small sleepy village in Spain. Makes you want to pack your bags and move there. Isabelle Broom has a way with words! She is able to create both sadness and happiness in every situation - crafting a rainbow as she goes (which is a good allegory for the book!).
This book has a lot more to offer than meets the eye - it's worth a read and is a good mood changer away from all those thrillers!
Enjoyable, inspiring and evocative of sunny days - 4* from me.
June 9, 2017
Perfect summers day read.
August 9, 2023
Now that I've read this book, I've added Mojácar to my list of places to visit!
This book beautifully portrays the landscape of Mojácar, though there were moments where the description felt a bit excessive to me. The genuine friendship between Tom and Hannah was a heartwarming delight and the complicated relationship between Nancy and Hannah adds depth to the narrative.
It is definitely worth a read for anyone looking for a heartwarming, easy read with an engaging story.
This book beautifully portrays the landscape of Mojácar, though there were moments where the description felt a bit excessive to me. The genuine friendship between Tom and Hannah was a heartwarming delight and the complicated relationship between Nancy and Hannah adds depth to the narrative.
It is definitely worth a read for anyone looking for a heartwarming, easy read with an engaging story.
May 21, 2017
The thing about I love about Isabelle Broom's book are the detailed locations! Everything is so vividly described and sounds so beautiful they instantly make me google and then want to visit the place.
September 15, 2018
Firstly, I would like to thank Netgally and the Publishers for approving me an ARC Ebook of Then. Now. Always. by Isabelle Broom, in return for my honest thoughts on the book. My apologies for it being posted late; there's just not enough reading hours in the day!
When I look at the front cover for this book, it makes me what to jump right in there! From the sun setting sky to the typical Spanish street; with mountains behind.
I like the post franking mark on the cover, that's cute! The blue of the title works great against the sun setting sky behind as does the author's name in white. A white trim borders the whole scene which gives it a postcard feel to it!
Hannah; a researcher for Vivid Productions in London and has done so for 5 years. In that time she has done all the research for her work colleagues ready for when they go off and visit exotic and exciting locations, leaving her behind.
Hannah works with her best friend Tom; who is a cameraman, they have been friends since university and have been inseparable ever since. They often get mistaken for a couple when they are out together because they are so close. But Hannah has a crush on her boss Theo; a Greek god of looks. She hasn't told Tom but does confide in the other best friend; Rachel.
Hannah has been researching her butt off ready to pitch her idea of the hidden culture of Majorca (Almeria) showing how in the 70's Artistic people world-wide came there to join the colony to her Theo. The pitch goes down a storm, with the whole team and they give the go ahead to film there. But after the pitch she feel's deflated because she never get's to see the job through to the end. Until Theo pull's her aside and asks her to join the rest of the team to help research on location. Hannah jumps at the chance to do her first ever location and will be accompanying Theo; who will be editing, Tom the cameraman and Claudette; who will be presenting. She does have intentions as this is the place she went to with Rachel and her family when they were in their teens; and having lots of fun in the process! The pair got matching tattoos to remind them of their fun. The tattoo is of Indalo man; the legend behind it means good luck and to word of evil. This is where her idea for the document came from! But what happened when her and Rachel went there years ago? Will she do anything about her crush for Theo? Will Tom notice his best friend's crunch on Theo? or is there more to Toms feelings for his friend? Why is this trip so important to her?
Before she they leave London, Hannah, Tom, Rachel and her boyfriend Paul have a catch up! Hannah has a dislike for her friend's choice of boyfriend, so when Rachel announces Paul will be moving in with her; Hannah isn't that pleased. This doesn't go unnoticed by Tom; who thinks she should be pleased for her oldest friend. But can she? Why doesn't she like him?
On arrival Hannah gets a rush of memories, on exploring by herself she bump's in to an English lady; Elaine who came to Majorca in the 70's. Hannah asks if she would mind her interviewing her for the documentary, Elaine is reluctant but agrees as long as her face isn't shown. But why? Is there more to Elaine's story? Will she open up to Hannah?
Hannah also manages to have a few moment's with Theo, however when they start to open up to each other, there's always something that gets in the way. Then Hannah gets an unexpected visitor from her horror of a step sister Nancy. Hannah is not happy at all to see Nancy and makes her feeling's quit clear. But what is Nancy doing there? Why does Hannah dislike her step-sister? Will Nancy get in the way?
Then. Now. Always. is the first book I've ever read of Isabelle's and I am incredibly glad I did! This book managed to whisk me away to sunny Spain, somewhere I've never actually been to; but gosh I certainly feel like I have when I finished this delightful book. Isabelle managed to wrap me up in Hannah's story, and I very much felt compelled to read on after every chapter! This book has ticked all the boxes for me from the glorious setting, characters to the storyline which equates to a really great read. I will now be looking out for more of her book's to escape too! If you can't guess, I highly recommend you have a read this delightful book!
When I look at the front cover for this book, it makes me what to jump right in there! From the sun setting sky to the typical Spanish street; with mountains behind.
I like the post franking mark on the cover, that's cute! The blue of the title works great against the sun setting sky behind as does the author's name in white. A white trim borders the whole scene which gives it a postcard feel to it!
Hannah; a researcher for Vivid Productions in London and has done so for 5 years. In that time she has done all the research for her work colleagues ready for when they go off and visit exotic and exciting locations, leaving her behind.
Hannah works with her best friend Tom; who is a cameraman, they have been friends since university and have been inseparable ever since. They often get mistaken for a couple when they are out together because they are so close. But Hannah has a crush on her boss Theo; a Greek god of looks. She hasn't told Tom but does confide in the other best friend; Rachel.
Hannah has been researching her butt off ready to pitch her idea of the hidden culture of Majorca (Almeria) showing how in the 70's Artistic people world-wide came there to join the colony to her Theo. The pitch goes down a storm, with the whole team and they give the go ahead to film there. But after the pitch she feel's deflated because she never get's to see the job through to the end. Until Theo pull's her aside and asks her to join the rest of the team to help research on location. Hannah jumps at the chance to do her first ever location and will be accompanying Theo; who will be editing, Tom the cameraman and Claudette; who will be presenting. She does have intentions as this is the place she went to with Rachel and her family when they were in their teens; and having lots of fun in the process! The pair got matching tattoos to remind them of their fun. The tattoo is of Indalo man; the legend behind it means good luck and to word of evil. This is where her idea for the document came from! But what happened when her and Rachel went there years ago? Will she do anything about her crush for Theo? Will Tom notice his best friend's crunch on Theo? or is there more to Toms feelings for his friend? Why is this trip so important to her?
Before she they leave London, Hannah, Tom, Rachel and her boyfriend Paul have a catch up! Hannah has a dislike for her friend's choice of boyfriend, so when Rachel announces Paul will be moving in with her; Hannah isn't that pleased. This doesn't go unnoticed by Tom; who thinks she should be pleased for her oldest friend. But can she? Why doesn't she like him?
On arrival Hannah gets a rush of memories, on exploring by herself she bump's in to an English lady; Elaine who came to Majorca in the 70's. Hannah asks if she would mind her interviewing her for the documentary, Elaine is reluctant but agrees as long as her face isn't shown. But why? Is there more to Elaine's story? Will she open up to Hannah?
Hannah also manages to have a few moment's with Theo, however when they start to open up to each other, there's always something that gets in the way. Then Hannah gets an unexpected visitor from her horror of a step sister Nancy. Hannah is not happy at all to see Nancy and makes her feeling's quit clear. But what is Nancy doing there? Why does Hannah dislike her step-sister? Will Nancy get in the way?
Then. Now. Always. is the first book I've ever read of Isabelle's and I am incredibly glad I did! This book managed to whisk me away to sunny Spain, somewhere I've never actually been to; but gosh I certainly feel like I have when I finished this delightful book. Isabelle managed to wrap me up in Hannah's story, and I very much felt compelled to read on after every chapter! This book has ticked all the boxes for me from the glorious setting, characters to the storyline which equates to a really great read. I will now be looking out for more of her book's to escape too! If you can't guess, I highly recommend you have a read this delightful book!
April 14, 2017
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the advanced reading copy. All opinions are my own.
Isabelle Broom's books should come with a warning on the front cover: ADVISORY: READING THIS BOOK WILL MAKE YOU WANT TO BOOK A HOLIDAY RIGHT AWAY!
Ahh this book is so lovely. As ever, Isabelle immerses the reader in beautiful, warm and sunny surroundings, and reading this is the next best thing to being in the Spanish village of Mojacar. It's descriptive without bogging the story down with too much detail, but enough to evoke the sights, sounds and smells of the setting perfectly.
The characters are written equally well. I felt I was Hannah, and could see why she was so in love with Theo.
The awkward relationship between Hannah and her half-sister Nancy is very poignant. Despite blaming Nancy for her father's indifference, Hannah still feels the responsibility of an older sister and feels she has to look out for Nancy - even though she annoys the hell out of her.
Then there's another fly in the ointment; the beautiful Claudette, whose flirty French accent and high maintenance winds Hannah up further. But then best friend Tom is always on hand to calm things down, but then he starts acting a bit weird too.
Of course the main reason for them all being in Mojacar is to film a documentary which could make Hannah's career. She meets the wonderful Elaine, an artist who has adopted the Spanish village as her home. But there's more to her story than the artist's community which existed years ago.
Of course the inevitable happens in the end, but the journey there is not always straightforward, and it is a great fun read that had me pouring wistfully over travel websites.
Isabelle Broom has filled me with wunderlust yet again...
Isabelle Broom's books should come with a warning on the front cover: ADVISORY: READING THIS BOOK WILL MAKE YOU WANT TO BOOK A HOLIDAY RIGHT AWAY!
Ahh this book is so lovely. As ever, Isabelle immerses the reader in beautiful, warm and sunny surroundings, and reading this is the next best thing to being in the Spanish village of Mojacar. It's descriptive without bogging the story down with too much detail, but enough to evoke the sights, sounds and smells of the setting perfectly.
The characters are written equally well. I felt I was Hannah, and could see why she was so in love with Theo.
The awkward relationship between Hannah and her half-sister Nancy is very poignant. Despite blaming Nancy for her father's indifference, Hannah still feels the responsibility of an older sister and feels she has to look out for Nancy - even though she annoys the hell out of her.
Then there's another fly in the ointment; the beautiful Claudette, whose flirty French accent and high maintenance winds Hannah up further. But then best friend Tom is always on hand to calm things down, but then he starts acting a bit weird too.
Of course the main reason for them all being in Mojacar is to film a documentary which could make Hannah's career. She meets the wonderful Elaine, an artist who has adopted the Spanish village as her home. But there's more to her story than the artist's community which existed years ago.
Of course the inevitable happens in the end, but the journey there is not always straightforward, and it is a great fun read that had me pouring wistfully over travel websites.
Isabelle Broom has filled me with wunderlust yet again...
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