Single for the Summer

by Mandy Baggot

***The go-to book for the summer, from everyone's favourite getaway Queen, Mandy Baggot!***

Tess Parks has made up her mind: love isn’t for her.

When it comes to dating she has one rule: after six weeks with a guy, she ends it. So when her heartbroken best friend invites her for a girly getaway in Corfu, Tess is sure she can stick to their pact to stay single for the summer.

But then she meets the gorgeous restaurateur Andras...

To keep his overbearing mother off his back, Tess agrees to pretend to date him. But as the two spend time together, Tess begins to realise that this fake relationship is starting to feel like the best one she’s ever had…

A feel-good escapist beach read set against a beautiful Greek island backdrop. From the award-winning author of Truly, Madly Greekly and Those Summer Nights.

Genres: Romance, Chick Lit, Contemporary, Summer, Fiction, Summer Reads, Greece

357 pages, Unknown Binding

First published July 27, 2018

About the author

Mandy Baggot is an international bestselling and award-winning romance writer represented by Tanera Simons of Greenstone Literary.

Mandy is best-known for her laugh-out-loud romantic comedies featuring strong heroines, gorgeous heroes and always that happy-ever-after!

The winner of the Innovation in Romantic Fiction award at the UK's Festival of Romance, her novel, One Wish in Manhattan, was also shortlisted for the Romantic Novelists' Association Romantic Comedy Novel of the Year award in 2016. Mandy's books have so far been translated into Bulgarian, Czech, German, Hungarian and Italian.

Mandy loves the Greek island of Corfu, wine, cheese, Netflix, country music and handbags. Also a singer, she has taken part in ITV1's Who Dares Sings and The X-Factor. Most recently, Mandy took part in BBC1's Ready Steady Cook with Greek celebrity chef, Akis Petretzikis.

Mandy is a member of the Society of Authors and splits her time between Salisbury, Wiltshire, UK and Corfu, Greece.

Visit Mandy's website at www.mandybaggot.com

Reviews

[PrettyFlamingo · Rating 2 out of 5]

I read this over the Bank Holiday weekend. I have to say I didn’t like the main character Tess to start off with. She was childish, a sugar addict (who on earth has a Dr Pepper with three sugars in it? Why wasn’t she the size of a house?) and obsessed with social media. As I read on I also thought she read like a sex maniac. I’m not keen on books where characters “need sex” as if they need their next meal. “... she hadn’t had sex in a few weeks, which was basically forever” Really?

The cover is fabulous, as are the descriptions of Corfu, the resorts, the food and the atmosphere. I had a fantastic time there myself and was delighted to read about Nissaki Beach and Paleokastritsa, as if I was there all over again. Mandy is very good at creating atmosphere. I laughed at the name of the bank manager that Tess couldn’t pronounce as I have a Greek friend with the exact same surname!

The unfolding romance was rather sweet but, as very often with chick lit, and especially where it features a holiday romance, very, very fast. And I didn’t really believe the end scene would take place as it did. I couldn’t really believe in someone behaving that way in their workplace. Or that Tess was “very important” at work. The job she had wasn’t all that important at all! I think it is a fun summer read, and I enjoyed a lot of it, but I think I’m just a bit too old for it – as I don’t say “cray cray” and had to Google to find out who Jared Padalecki was, and yawned at yet another older person (probably only early 50s) talking about the “interweb” and the “Book of Faces” ............

I liked the immediate references though, which set the story in its time. A lot of reviewers don’t like this, but I find it amusing. We have a “frenzied Ed Balls on Strictly”, Harry Kane, Richard Jones from Britain’s Got Talent (who I had to Google along with Jared) and thought this added a fun aspect.

In summary, I probably wouldn’t read another by this author, though I did like being transported back to Corfu for a Bank Holiday weekend and reliving my memories which she managed to bring back so vividly.

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, wow, wow. This is really what you call an amazing must-have summer read. The cover drew me in straight away and I fell in love with the story instantly. The setting is beautiful and the descriptions of Kalami in Greece made me want to book a flight to there now! It really is a feel-good, lighthearted and enjoyable read.

The story follows two best friends: Tess and Sonya. The two go away to Corfu after both experiences some troubles with their love lives and together they have an amazing time. This story is full of love, humour and drama. Between the two women there are tears and lots of laughter.

However, Tess is asked for a favour by local restaurant owner Andras and together the pair grow closer. Would a romance between them ever work? Andras' mother Isadora is one of his many family members trying to sway Andras' away from Tess so the pair come together in order to sort out the issues going on.

I just loved this book so much. It really will make you laugh out loud in places. It's the perfect book to relax with by the pool or just sitting on your sofa at home wishing you were in Corfu!

Thank you to Netgalley and to the publisher for a chance to read this novel, which I have reviewed honestly.

[Hannah · Rating 4 out of 5]

Compared to other Mandy Baggot novels I have read this one took me a while to get into. It was worth persisting with though as by the end it became a favourite for me. Tess never dates men for more than six weeks while Andras hasn't had a serious relationship for some time. Is that about to change for both of them? It's a laugh out moment when they first meet and Tess never seems to stop talking about the lack of Wifi. Andras and Tess first get into a fake pretending relationship to keep his overbearing mother off his back and Tess to get Wifi. Andras is a lovely guy and melts you heart on more than one occasion, I love how they fall for each other after pretending. I also love the character of Sonya and the struggles she shares throughout the story.

[Rachel Gilbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Single For the Summer, I have fallen in love with a man called Andras, and the island of Corfu. I was hooked on Tess and Sonya's week in Corfu, and just how much they managed to pack into a week.

Before we even get to Greece, there is a proposal that sets in motion Tess's willingness to even go on holiday, and her new aversion to scallops! Sonya persuades Tess, who is a serial dater and never stays single for longer than a few days at a time, to stay single for the whole holiday..they are allowed to look but that's it.

Well things don't exactly go according to plan when Andras needs a fake girlfriend for the week to put off his mother's matchmaking and he ropes Tess in play the part. In return Tess negotiates for things she and her friend require to make their holiday perfect!

I absolute loved Andras guiding the girls around the island of Corfu, and from that I got a great feeling of the beauty of the island. However what really sets this story apart is Andras' brothers wedding that is happening at the end of the week.

As a fake girlfriend Tess and Sonya are invited to many Corfiot family meals and learn all about Greek wedding customs and traditions. I found it really interesting to see just how different English and Greek weddings are. We also discover just how important family is to the Greeks, and there is also plenty of delicious sounding Greek Food present too.

The chemistry between Tess and Andras is clearly present even if both have had enough heartbreak in the past they wouldn't want to acknowledge it. From some of the conversations they have its clear to see just how similar they are while being quite different.

If feels in way like a bit of a story of contrasts, set in a stunning location. The other character that is worth a mention is the great four legged friend in this story Hector. Hector is one of the best masters of escape I've read about, and he isn't necessarily the animal you think he is!

Overall Mandy Baggot has clearly done it again, brought together sun, summer, Greek men and food, and a lovely story altogether is a fantastically summery book. I loved being able to read this on a cold summers day in England, as it made me feel warm inside, although I did wish I had read it on my Greek Cruise instead!

Thank you to Netgalley and Ebury Press for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

[Kate’s Book Spot · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a big fan of Mandy's writing so as soon as I saw that her latest release was next on my 'to read' list I knew I was in for a treat!

I didn't warm to Tess straight away, I had to learn a little bit about her past to allow me to understand her behaviour. As events unfolded I laughed, I cringed and I even felt a little bit sad but the most important thing is that I definitely warmed to Tess. She was quick-witted and kind, just a little bit lost to begin with. In my opinion this was totally understandable considering what had happened to her but I'm afraid you'll have to read the book to find out what I'm talking about here.

The whole fake girlfriend thing was brilliant and so much fun to read! In classic Mandy Baggot style, the characters went through a series of crazy scenes that thoroughly entertained me and kept me flipping the pages.

Tess's friend Sonya was such a charming character and her story continued to keep me guessing in a 'is he, isn't he' way. She was a fabulous supporting character who I would love to see more of, hint hint Mandy 😉.

Single for the Summer was a Greek wonderland of sun, great food and getting away from it all. The perfect summer read.

[Nessa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an amazing book, so entertaining and addictively good right from the very first page. I loved everything about this delightful story, which was so well written and the characters just came alive right before my very own eyes, well that's how it felt whilst reading this book. I really did feel like I was there, in Corfu for real and I really didn't want to leave.

I also loved reading the Greek references and all about the Greek traditions throughout the story.

Oh and I absolutely loved Hector and how he had his own part to play within the story, so unique and full of mischief. Who or what is Hector you ask, well you'll just have to read the book to find out for yourself.

It was a pleasure getting to know Tess and Andras, and seeing how their relationship developed throughout the story and the difficulties they encountered from time to time.

If you haven't read a Mandy Baggot book yet, then all I can say is don't delay any further, as I can highly recommend her books as truly fun and delightful reads.

[Mrs. Bookworm · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a Laugh out Loud book.

I was grinning all the time. The banter between Tess & Andras is just too funny.

OMG and Andras...is one hell of a Greek Adonis.

At first I want to strangle Tess and Isadora...really...they grated my nerves for a couple of chapters.

I loved the ending too...not too much heartbreak in this book.

and oh Hector!

[Tracey Risebrow · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tess Parks dates a lot! having a man on her arm (and her social media pages) is her way of dealing with past disappointment. She has one rule though, that none of them will be around longer than 6 weeks. When to her horror her latest boyfriend pops the question she does the only thing she can - run!

Her friend Sonya has a week in Corfu planned with her boyfriend when he decides he wants a break. This is the perfect opportunity to get away from it all and have a girls week to remember. Sonya makes Tess promise to stay single for the summer (well at least the holiday) but is that something Tess can do, particularly when she meets sexy Andras.

Andras has his own problems, the main one being his interfering Greek mother determined to see him marry a Greek girl of her choosing. Equally determined this won't happen he makes up a girlfriend - enter Tess

Andras is very sexy - how do I know this without seeing him because the author had him embedded in my minds eye from the moment he started doing pull ups on the door frame shirtless!! It is probably a good job there is no picture - not sure my hormones could take it. Initially I thought he was a bit of a wimp not standing up to his mother but he is just being a good son who doesn't want to upset her.

Tess has some very weird ideas- coke with 3 sugars! My teeth hurt just thinking about it. She also refuses to walk anywhere barefoot which seems a bit neurotic but we do get to find out the reason why eventually. She doesn't know what she wants, everything was clear before she came to Corfu but as the days pass she starts to reevaluate her life.

There is a great cast of supporting characters providing lots of humour along the way. The Greek wedding of Andras brother takes up a lot of his time and some of the escapades had me laughing out loud. The conversations between the characters in the wedding party are great.

Sonya of course plays a large part in this book and helps Tess to see the beauty of Corfu while dealing with her own uncertain relationship.

Hector definitely deserves a mention - how did he keep escaping!

This is a perfect feel good summer read from Mandy Baggot and a definite one for the suitcase. I have never been to Corfu but it is clear the author loves the place and I now feel I should go there. The imagery is so vivid I can picture Corfu clearly and can almost smell the sea.

I have read all of the authors books and can honestly say her last couple have been excellent, this is no exception. If you are looking for a romantic read that will have you laughing as well look no further.

[Linda Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tess Parks only ever dates men for six weeks having been jilted at the altar, so she can’t see any problem in staying single when she heads on holiday to Corfu with Sonya.

Single for the Summer is the perfect summer beach read with wonderful evocative settings. Moreover, Mandy Baggot conveys the allure of Corfu so brilliantly that I want to be on a Greek beach right now. She weaves elements relating to the senses so effortlessly that I could taste sweet baklava, smell the lavender in the pots next to the taverna and feel the sand beneath my feet. I even told my husband I would have to book a holiday there.

The plot hinges around a throw away remark from Andras, and his brother Spiro’s wedding. I learnt a great deal about Greek traditions and the closeness of Greek families with strong matriarchs at the helm so that as well as enjoying a super romantic read, I felt as if I had a cultural experience too.

Alongside a panoply of vivid and credible characters that provide humour and Greek authenticity are stand out performances from Tess and Andras. Whilst this is a light hearted read with all the elements one would expect from a chick-lit style book, there is also real depth to their personalities as both deal with emotional hurt from the past. It was impossible not to believe in them completely.

What I so enjoy about Mandy Baggot’s writing is her vivacious style. She can drop in a product or cultural reference like Strictly Come Dancing and make her reader know instantly exactly what she means. She has a wicked sense of humour and a deft hand at writing sex scenes too so that reading Single for the Summer is a lovely, life affirming book that lifts the spirits and puts the reader in the right mood for summer – and maybe a little romance of their own. I loved it.

[Fiona Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have read a few of the author's books before, but my favourite are ones like this. This was a lovely summer read with plenty of humour throughout. The storyline is a good one, it is written well, and all of the characters are endearing in their own ways.

Tess has rules - she dates a guy for six weeks and then dumps him, the latest being right at the point where he asks her to marry him. Something in her past has made her this way, and we don't find out the exact details of what that is until later in the story. That is not the only thing her past has left her with, however, as we also find out exactly why she doesn't like to walk on the sand in her bare feet anymore.

Andras is a man living in fear of his mother to a certain extent. As a Greek man, and with a large extended family living almost on top of him, there are certain expectations. His mother thinks that an arranged marriage is best for him, to a lovely Greek woman she approves of. But he has other ideas entirely, and he ends up asking Tess to pretend to be his girlfriend. This leads to so many hilarious moments, especially the family traditions his family ask her to be a part of in the lead up to a family wedding.

This is a brilliant summer read and one which will appeal to anyone looking to escape from everyday life and dream of a holiday somewhere hot. Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing a copy.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a perfect holiday read. Beautiful descriptions of Corfu allow you to easily imagine yourself on it's sunsoaked beaches, exploring the winding streets and sampling the delicious food on offer. Ideal if you aren't escaping anywhere this summer, pull up your lounger and a glass of sangria and imagine the water lapping on the shore.

Tess is a serial dater, never allowing a relationship to develop longer than 6 weeks. She agrees to go on holiday with her friend when her boyfriend declares that he needs a break. Sonya gets her to vow to stay single whilst they are there.

She meets Andras, who is a gorgeous Greek local and finds herself agreeing to being a pretend girlfriend whilst a family wedding is going on to avoid his mother pairing him off with a relative.

He agrees to be a tour guide for the two friends and they go on some idyllics days in the sun- seeing beautiful parts of the Greek Island.

Tess gets caught up in the prenuptial celebrations and the Greek traditions sound really interesting. The mother is a typically drawn Greek matriarch and is determined to dislike Tess- as she's not Greek and not the girl she has picked out for her son.

It's made me even more keen to visit Corfu and explore the villages and sit down to enjoy the delicious sounding food and drink.

[Steph Lawrence · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another absolute gem by Mandy Baggott.
A story of friendship, relationships & family.
And all set in Corfu...what could be better. I thought I was there it is described so perfectly.
And Andras *whistles, swoon* is just gorgeous.
I can't recommend this author enough, always a fab, and fun, read.

[Samantha Tonge · Rating 5 out of 5]

A LUSH summery read, guaranteed to satisfy all the senses. Fall in love with ripped romeo, Andras, as Baggot takes you on an unforgettable journey that will make you want to book your Greek getaway before you can say Baklava! Her exquisite descriptions of food won't be the only thing you salivate over. Scrumptious sun-kissed romance at its best!

[Kris Mayer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book, set in Corfu. Both Tess and Andras have commitment issues for different reasons. They start a 'fake' relationship to stop Andras's Mother pushing a cousin on him as a potential bride.

Over time they fall for each other and come clean about their lives and relationship.

A great summer read- I read it in one sitting.

[Jill Steeples · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be transported to the magical island of Corfu with Tess where the sun is always shining and romance is in the air when she meets the gorgeous Andras. Is it the real thing though or just a pretend romance? An entertaining and funny beach-read! Loved it!

[Jenny Hale · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this book! Mandy creates characters that are full of life, down-to-earth, and absolutely delightful. I found myself snorting with laughter at times and frantically turning pages to see what happened next. A perfect beach read, this one had me hooked!

[Jane Greensitt · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you like romance, Corfu, realistic characters and well written dialogue then this is the one to read. Set in the sunshine, two friends head for Corfu, each with a past and both find closure and a brighter future. Great for a feel good holiday read.

[Agi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Setting of Greece makes me feel like a bee around the honey pot - I love this country, its culture, people and tradition, so it is not a wonder that I am reading as many books set there as possible, and I am really lucky here as many authors lost their hearts for Greece as well. "Single for the Summer" by Mandy Baggot happens on Corfu, and one look at this gorgeous cover and the synopsis had me sold - and my first impression only came true as the story was heart - warming, and it brought together sun, beaches, delicious food, sexy as hell hero and Greek traditions - just what I wanted!

This is a story about Tess Parks and her rule of dating for 6 weeks only. Yes. And God forbid any of the boyfriends to pop THE question! Because when it happens, Tess goes into some kind of a meltdown. Tess's best friend Sonya, who was about to go to Greece with her boyfriend, unexpectedly finds herself "on a break", so the two girls pack their suitcases and travel to Corfu. What is better than sun, sand and blue water and NO DATING?
Well, I'd say, sun, sand, blue water and DATING. But unexpectedly. And actually fake - dating. And crazy tortoise Hector who can't stay long in one place. Sounds like a perfect holiday, no?

I have immediately warmed to all of the characters, well, maybe not so to Andras's mother. I need to have a little whinge, please do let me get it off my chest, but she annoyed the hell out of me. I understand tradition, I know Greek mothers have always right and I know they keep everything with an iron fist but I just couldn't stand her and her rudeness. Because for me there was nothing charming or funny in the way she has treated Tess, Sonya and her own son, for me it was pure rudeness, period, and this interfering irritated me incredibly.
Tess was great, I really liked her. She was sharp - minded, quick in making decisions and she's never regretted things that she did or said. She had rules and she followed them but then it was also great to see how she started to come out of all her comfort zones, started to relax and this relaxed version of her I liked much, much more.
Andras was your typical sexy Greek god, but there was much more to him than the first (sexy) impression. I was really admiring his patience though there came a moment that I so wanted him to tell his mother to eventually back off - I know, impossible. Greek families, traditions etc.
And the whole cast of the supporting characters is as colourful as a rainbow. They added so much personality to this story, so much humour and warm feelings, and Andras family, with of course the exception of his mother and his cousin was brilliant, with all the preparations for wedding and rolling babies on the beds - loved this idea, btw.

As a fake girlfriend, Tess and Sonya are being invited to many family meetings and meals, and this is why the fun ends, because Andras's mother is always there! The chemistry between Tess and Andras was brilliantly captured. You know how it sometimes is, that this just feels so forced and pushed on the characters but here, in this book, it was just great. It felt honest and genuine,

This is this kind of a story that envelops you and takes you with on a journey. I laughed with the characters, I cringed, I sighed and shook my head with disbelief and I felt like a part of this book. There were many (MANY!) hilarious situations which made the reading so entertaining and light - hearted, there were truly crazy scenes that made me laughed, and there were also some sad scenes, and it was very well balanced.

Of course the descriptions of Corfu are beautiful! Vivid and colourful, they just made me wonder if I should change my plans from Rhodes to Corfu next year? But really, I could feel the sun shining, picture the sea and all the smells, and of course the gorgeous food made my mouth water.

It was a lovely story about re-evaluating your life, a great escapism and I enjoyed every page of it. This book has it all - laughter, tears, some drama, exciting romance and gorgeous setting, with endearing, believable characters. Already looking forward to Mandy Baggot's Christmas offering and in the meantime recommending "Single for the Summer" as a great summer read.

Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.

[Best Crime Books & More · Rating 5 out of 5]

sighs> I have to say I have a bit of a girl fan thing going on with Mandy Baggott. Her books are like the best chocolate on a miserable day, no matter what...it never fails to cheer you up. I have read a few MB books now and they just seem to cheer me up immensley, I always know I am going to get an fantastic book that will have me smiling and laughing from one page to the next. Thankfully her magic has not faded one little bit. This latest book is the absolute PERFECT anecdote to our miserably pathetic 'summer' evenings we are meant to be having.

Tess Parks is front and centre in this latest book and is strictly a 6 week maximum serial dater. I fell head over heels in love with this loud, funny yet sensitive woman who is an absolutely hillarious serial dater. When her latest BF pops the question over dinner she goes into meltdown. Her friend Sonya is also having a hard time and is 'on a break' from her boyrfiend Joey. When Sonya suggests some R&R in Corfu the two girls head off with the plan of drinking in the sun and forgetting all their troubles.

For the girls, what they didn't plan on was running into a gorgeous Greek restaurant owner Andras and his overbearing Mother. Andras needs a fake girlfriend to get his Mother off his back and before they know it, they are dragged into a crazy week which had me tittering along with every additional part of the story. Mandy Baggott has created the perfect read, full of characters that you can't help but love (even Andras overbaring Mother), tortoises that won't stay in their home and all sorts of weird and wonderful other things.

This book was a sheer joy to read and I just loved how beautiful Corfu sounded, it actually made me want to hop on a plane for a weeks R&R myself. I read the book in one day over two sittings and loved it from start to finish. Having been having an absolutely rubbish day, Mandy Baggot single handedly sent me to bed feeling a lot more happy than I was when I woke up. A pleasure to read and I will make sure that her newest releases always make their way to the top of my to read list now!

[Dee Haych · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is so refreshing to pick up a Mandy Baggot book and have a lighthearted, laugh out loud read. This is another fab book by Mandy that I have thoroughly enjoyed. It has it all....laughter, tears and 'OMG really' moments! How Mandy comes up with all these amazing characters is beyond me. Tess is seemingly commitment phobic with her 6 weeks then move on rule......in fact it's due to an unwanted propsal that has Tess boarding a plane to escape from her suitor.  I loved Tess's best friend, Sonya,  with all her ailments....had me belly laughing at times. Andras is our hunk in this book but he also has issues of his own....his fiercely family-value led mother wants him to marry a family friend, but Andras has other ideas and cue a chance meeting at a bar and our 2 main characters are very bizarrely thrown together. This book has Tess and Andras trying to avoid what is happening, but slowly and surely an attraction between them is sparked. As with all of Mandy's amazing storylines....nothing can be that straightforward! Tess is under strict instructions from Sonya to 'stay single for the summer' and poor Andras is so worried about his mother's influence that he is literally running from her insistence to marry a lovely Greek girl.
Mandy's knowledge of all things Greek is highly evident and she very obviously researches every single thing that goes into her books...from Greek culture to the taste of the Greek food. Her descriptions can take you away from a rainy afternoon here to the sunkissed beaches of Corfu.
Mandy's books always have a fantastic sense of humour and are full to bursting with amazing content. Her storylines always have you hooked from start to finish and you develop an affiliation for the characters that makes you want the very best for them.
I cannot recommend this book enough....in fact in would say it's my favourite Mandy Baggot book so far and I cannot wait to see what Mandy has in store for us next.

[Tara · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars.

Thank goodness I was in the comfort of my own home while reading Mandy Baggot’s new book, Single For The Summer.
Had I been on a bus or a train, I would definitely have been that annoying woman people moan about on social media by constantly guffawing.
There was no keeping it in though; it’s a laugh out loud kind of funny, full of little quips (there’s even a reference to Donald Trump), weaved into a feel-good romance, perfect for the beach.
While I have been reading and enjoying some new authors lately, it’s so lovely to go back to a familiar favourite.
Even though Mandy’s books always feature different characters and stories, I already know I love her writing style and that I’m in for a treat – and Single For The Summer is certainly that.
Tess’s six-week rule, which results in some truly cringe-worthy situations, comes from having her own heart broken.
Witnessing her slowly heal makes for some really touching moments, especially when they are set against such a beautiful backdrop.
As it says on her website “Mandy loves the Greek island of Corfu” and that shines through in this book where we are taken on a lovely tour (thank you Andras).
Having holidayed there myself, I was able to picture the warm, sandy beaches, glistening azure sea and green, rugged mountains perfectly but even if I had never visited, Mandy’s descriptions would have been enough.
If you’re looking for a book to take away with you, I’d recommend this one – as long as you make sure you sit far from other people while you’re reading (just in case your guffaws are as loud as mine).

With thanks to Ebury Digital (via NetGalley) for the ARC in return for an honest review.

[Vicki Bowles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher, Ebury, for the ARC. This review is my honest opinion and I was not paid for it. No money or baklava exchanged hands.

Mandy has done it again. She's written another sun-soaked Greek tale of mythical proportions which had me howling for my Retsina. The sights, sounds and smells of the Greek Island of Corfu are brought to life in this hilarious tale of one woman and her fear of commitment.

It's normally the guys who are the commitment-phobes in most books; it's refreshing to meet Tess, who loves romance, sex, hot guys... just as long as it doesn't progress into a relationship. Cos Tess doesn't do relationships - she simply can't.

When Andras blurts out to his mother that Tess is his girlfriend, for some mad reason Tess goes along with it. It's just a bit of fun, after all - and Andras is hot! Not that she's looking, of course - she promised Sonya she would stay away from men. She is there for Sonya, after all.

The physical attraction between Tess and Andras is obvious to them, but they know it cannot go any further. To watch - sorry, read - as they do everything they can to avoid falling for each other is hilarious. I found myself laughing out loud in several parts of the book.

The characters of Andras's bossy mother and sister are brilliant; endlessly conniving to pair Andras off with his pretty cousin, and treating Tess, a non-Greek girl, with disdain and distrust. If only they knew...

Mandy writes with a down-to-earth humour that just makes you feel good reading her books. You'll also want to book a Greek holiday after reading this.

[Claire · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed Single for the Summer.

Once again Mandy Baggot transports you to the sunny island of Corfu, this time to follow the exploits of Tess and her heartbroken friend Sonya as they escape to Corfu for a week.

Used to only dating men for six weeks before moving on, Tess is challenged to stay single for the summer. Surely this is a challenge Tess can pass but she hasn't factored in meeting Andras, the owner of their favourite beach restaurant.

This is a gorgeous beach read. It's set on a beautiful island (one of my favourite places) and is so well written. I loved all the characters especially Isadora and of course the gorgeous Andras. Mandy's descriptions of the island and especially the food are fantastic and I can't wait to go back to Corfu.

This book is definitely worth 5 stars and I can highly recommend it. Read it whilst lying on a lounger soaking up some sun with a glass of wine in hand - perfect!

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Single for the Summer is the perfect summer holiday read.

I really loved it, two best friends go on holidays together and let their hairs down.

Tess meets yummy local Andras and helps him by pretending to be his girlfriend to help him get his mother of his back. But spending all that time together brings them closer than ever and we see a holiday romance blooming.

The characters and village in the book are absolutely perfect. Now I want to go on holiday! Really sad this book has came to an end, I really hope there is a sequal.

[Kylie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Pretty standard holiday romance, with no suprises. Writing is good, and setting is divine. Great to read when you need something light, fluffy and predictable.

[Sheerie · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 out of 5

[Julia Van · Rating 2 out of 5]

vibes 10000
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[Book Addict Shaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

Single for the Summer was the perfect read to help with the serious case of the holiday blues I have developed since returning home from Cyprus (my favourite place in the whole world). Mandy Baggot is the best author I have read for capturing the true essence of all things Greek, and her books that are set there remind me so much of everything I have ever enjoyed about Cyprus. I read this book and finished it feeling like I had been on another holiday. Mandy writes with such vividness that the scenes she writes and the settings they take place come alive in my mind, and it was such a gloriously enjoyable book because of that.

Tess is accompanying her friend Sonya to Corfu for a week of no men, just two friends enjoying themselves with plenty of sun and Greek food. That might be a problem for Tess however who has turned into a serial dater after the breakdown of her relationship. Straightaway I was gripped to this book with the brilliant scene setting opening which sees the girls arrive in beautiful Corfu. I found myself picturing my own holiday a few weeks previously, stepping off that plane into the heat, driving along to my apartment (my own version of paradise) and then spending a fortnight eating the most delicious Greek food washed down with plenty of beer and cocktails. I found myself becoming jealous of two fictional characters embarking on a holiday in the most beautiful sounding place. I so want to visit Greece one day.

One thing that Mandy writes incredibly well is comedy. Some of it is obvious, and some of it is understated. There’s so many scenes throughout this book that had me smiling, laughing and also chuckling to myself a few times too. But also, she creates such true to life characters that you can really invest your time in and believe in. Tess is probably one of my favourite characters that I have read about in fiction for a long time. I first loved her for her carefree attitude towards dating, yes she was doing it for all the wrong reasons but at the same time there wasn’t any shame there and she was an independent woman not afraid to stand up for herself (unless she was abandoning dates and then switching apps to then avoid said date…) and she was also somebody that I could easily see myself being friends with in real life. Similarly her friend Sonya was another great character who added a lot to the story and had her own journey to go on throughout the book. But I grew to love Tess even more because of how much I wanted her to get her happy ever after. When we start to learn more about her, I became endeared to her more and more and she was just such a lovely character to read about.

It isn’t long before Tess meets Andras is the funniest way possible. Andras is a local restauranteur with an overbearing mother that is trying to force him into marrying his cousin who unfortunately for his mother, he sees only as just that, his cousin. A hilarious series of events sees a reluctant Tess become Andras’s fake girlfriend to get his mother off his back (it only makes it worse) and soon he is showing the girls around the gorgeous island of Corfu and Tess can’t always take in the sights because of the glorious sight that is often standing in front of her. Let’s just say that Mandy has created her own version of a Greek god in Andras. He is just beautiful and there’s one scene that takes place on a beach that had me insanely jealous of Tess. I want my own version of Andras. Anyway, I digress… What I loved most about this love story in particular was how naturally it developed. We take it for granted in this genre that the love interests will just fall into each others arms and live happily ever after, that isn’t the case here because we actually get to see two characters develop, learn more about each other and slowly and naturally fall in love. I may even have (almost) shed a tear at some of the scenes in the book too such was my love for these characters that Mandy has created.

Characters aside and Mandy’s books set in Corfu are almost like mini love letters to the island she loves so much and there’s no better setting to be written than one that an author has lived and breathed themselves because they put that passion and love into their scene setting and it results in such a wonderful read. From the locations that her books take place, to the way she describes the food and drink just has me salivating and wanting to jump on the next plane to Cyprus and never return. Whether you’ve been on holiday this year or not, if you pick up one of Mandy’s Corfu set books, you will finish it feeling like you have. Single for the Summer is one of the best books I have read in 2017, I couldn’t get enough of it and was very sad when I reached the end. I wasn’t ready to leave Corfu behind, nor was I ready to leave these characters behind and I should imagine they will be living on in my head for some time longer yet.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

Single for the Summer is a stand-alone, contemporary romance book, a real happily ever after chick-lit summer read. Stayed up past midnight to finish this book - loved it.

So, what kept me reading?
I am already a fan of Ms Baggot’s writing style; I love how easy to read her stories are, the way she weaves her plots, her inclusion of popular culture references, the humour and banter that is ever present and how she creates her characters, making them feel so real. Single for the Summer did not disappoint.

In this book I have to say that I loved Sonya; what a great character! I found her intelligent, funny, kind and caring; she was a wonderful presence, a great supporting character and contrast to our leading lady, Tess. Our leading man, Andras, is one Greek god of a specimen; hunky, funny, considerate and a loyal family man – be still my beating heart. Can’t talk about characters without mentioning Hector, the escapologist, I loved that tortoise! What a unique addition to the story. So c’mon Mandy, how did Hector keep escaping his pen?

I loved the many amazing, beautiful and engaging descriptions throughout this book of all things Greek; the countryside, the food, the people and the customs. I felt transported to Corfu. Your love of the island permeates every page, Mandy.

I experienced many emotions while reading this story; I cried, I laughed, I rolled my eyes and I even growled a couple of times. Lol! In other words this contemporary romance is a real page turner – it kept me gripped.

So, were there any downsides?
Now, I must be honest and confess that I found it very difficult to like a couple of characters in this story; our main character, Tess Parks and Isadora, Andras’ mother.

To begin with, I couldn’t stand Tess. It took until I was about a third of the way into the book and we learned a little bit about her past to allow me to understand her behaviour somewhat.

I was also very shocked and frustrated with Isadora’s behaviour throughout this book; her actions towards Tess and Sonya were polar-opposite to the Greek/Corfiot hospitality that I’ve heard about. I’m not letting Marietta off the hook lightly either…

Having said that, I know that this reaction is probably exactly what Ms Baggot was looking for; obstacles to overcome, characters to evolve, hidden reasons to be revealed…

In a nutshell...
I stayed up past midnight to finish this book, couldn’t stop reading - loved it. Single for the Summer is a stand-alone, contemporary romance book with Ms Baggot’s signature happily ever after ending; it’s a story of friendship, relationships and family, a wonderful journey full of laughter, tears and, of course, lots of love. If you enjoyed the ‘My Big Fat Greek Wedding’ films, this book will be right up your street.

You can read my full review on Tabytha's Universe.

[Shona Booky Ramblings of a Neurotic Mom · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are looking for a book to read on the beach, or one to get you in the mood for a holiday then this is the book for you. Also if you're looking for some inspiration for holiday destinations then this may also be the book for you, thanks to this book I am now longing for a holiday on the beautiful Greek beaches, not to mention tasting all the beautiful Greek food mentioned during Tess' story. And that's all before we get to the main story of Tess and Andras.

I've read enough books and watched enough movies to know that the Greek mother is stereotypically overbearing, especially when it comes to her sons. The idea that Isadora would want to wed her eldest son off to a cousin doesn't surprise me, but it does surprise me that an English women who has met someone only once would agree to go along with his ridiculous plan. Even if he did offer to be a tour guide for her and her friend. That being said I loved the chemistry between Tess and Andras, I'm just a little disappointed that we didn't get more from them, everything was so last minute that it almost made their 'something' a little rushed.

As is usual from a Baggot book this story welcomes you in from the first pages and keeps you entertained throughout.