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Budapest Romance
Publishers Weekly says “The traditional healing properties and beauty of the thermal spa baths…are the true stars of this thoughtful romance.” Two strangers, both recovering from loss, discover each other against the bewitching backdrop of Budapest's thermal spa baths. New York businesswoman Kati Dunai travels to Hungary’s capital to settle her father’s estate as quickly as possible, so she can return to work. But when she steps into the bubbling warm waters of her hotel’s thermal baths, the constraints of her New England background melt away. Kati surrenders to pleasure in Budapest’s sensuous waters as she begins to discover the life her father left behind when he fled the city of his youth in the days following the 1956 Hungarian Revolution. Jan, a Dutchman staying at the same hotel, is instantly smitten. As the two grow closer while exploring Budapest, Kati learns that Jan is struggling to heal from scars, both inside and out. A terrible accident has left him recovering from injuries, but it’s another’s pain for which Jan cannot forgive himself. All too soon, Kati must return to her hectic Manhattan life. Can Kati and Jan’s fledgling love survive the challenges of a long-distance relationship?
278 pages, Paperback
First published December 1, 2014
14 people are currently reading
55 people want to read
About the author
Rozsa Gaston
18 books92 followersROZSA GASTON writes books on women who reach for what they want out of life. Her focus is on 16th century European female rulers.
GASTON studied history at Yale, and then received her master's degree in international affairs from Columbia. She lives in Bronxville, NY with her family. Be sure to follow her on Bookbub for the latest on special offers. https://www.bookbub.com/authors/rozsa...
Her motto? History matters.
GASTON studied history at Yale, and then received her master's degree in international affairs from Columbia. She lives in Bronxville, NY with her family. Be sure to follow her on Bookbub for the latest on special offers. https://www.bookbub.com/authors/rozsa...
Her motto? History matters.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
March 9, 2019
Žao mi je što sam ovoj knjizi morala da dam jednu zvezdicu, jer je imala određena stanovišta koja su bila okej, ali... Glavna junakinja Keti je došla u Budimpeštu kako bi obavila poslove koje je njen otac ostavio za sobom. Tu upoznaje Jana u koga se zaljubljuje i zatim obilaze Budimpeštu pričajući o svojim životima i stavovima. Shvataju da su stvoreni jedno za drugo i da žele da nastave vezu, iako je on poreklom iz Holandije, a ona iz Amerike. U drugom delu knjige njih dvoje su razdvojeni i naravno da se tu odvija nesporazum zbog koga oni misle da su izgubili jedno drugo, da bi se iz čista mira na kraju slučajno sreli i on je zaprosio. Volim čiklit čak i kada mu je radnja ovako tipična ako ima dobar humor i simpatično je pisan, ali ova knjiga mi je jedva držala pažnju, pisana je prilično prostim jezikom, ili je jednostavno prevod jako loš, sve je tako tipično, predvidivo, humora nema, nema nikakvog pečata, jedna u nizu knjiga koja nema ništa po čemu bih je zapamtila. Žao mi je što sam pala na lepe korice, jedna od retkih koju sam pročitala i osetila da je bilo gubljenje vremena. Dobra stvar u vezi nje jeste opis turističkih atrakcija Budimpešte i mesta koje bi trebalo posetiti, ali je umesto ove knjige ipak bolje pročitati "Top 10 lokacija koje treba posetiti u Budimpešti"...
February 23, 2015
In Budapest Romance, author Rozsa Gaston transports the reader to the timeless elegance of Budapest, Hungary, where they follow the unexpected chance meeting and romance of two people from very different worlds.
Kati Dunai is an international conference planner from New York City, who is in Budapest to settle her late father's estate.
Jan Klassen is a social worker from Beekbergen, Holland, who is in Budapest under doctor's orders to utilize the benefits from the city's sulfur thermal baths to help heal the minor neck and back pain that he sustained in a motorcycle accident.
With only a week left in Budapest, a first glance between Kati and Jan in the hotel thermal bath leads to an adventure of a lifetime as they discover the beauty and mystique of Budapest, and the enjoyable pleasure of each other's company. At the end of the week, Kati and Jan decide to continue their relationship and embark on a trans-atlantic romantic journey that will change their lives forever.
Budapest Romance is a wonderful story about two people who take the chance at finding true love even though they are from very different worlds. Through a slow and steady pace, Kati and Jan embark on a journey that will teach them to open their hearts to one another, slow down and smell the roses, discover what matters most to them, and enjoy the simple pleasures in life.
Through the richly descriptive setting of Budapest, the reader can't help but become enchanted with the timeless elegance of the city and its majestic thermal baths, mystical landmarks, and the jovial atmosphere of the Hungarian people. As the reader follows Kati and Jan's week long adventures in discovering the essence of Budapest, you can't help but become engrossed in their journey, and then cheer them on when their trans-atlantic romantic relationship strengthens and grows into true love.
Budapest Romance is a delightful and timeless romance story that will resonate with you for a very long time.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Pump Up Your Book.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
Kati Dunai is an international conference planner from New York City, who is in Budapest to settle her late father's estate.
Jan Klassen is a social worker from Beekbergen, Holland, who is in Budapest under doctor's orders to utilize the benefits from the city's sulfur thermal baths to help heal the minor neck and back pain that he sustained in a motorcycle accident.
With only a week left in Budapest, a first glance between Kati and Jan in the hotel thermal bath leads to an adventure of a lifetime as they discover the beauty and mystique of Budapest, and the enjoyable pleasure of each other's company. At the end of the week, Kati and Jan decide to continue their relationship and embark on a trans-atlantic romantic journey that will change their lives forever.
Budapest Romance is a wonderful story about two people who take the chance at finding true love even though they are from very different worlds. Through a slow and steady pace, Kati and Jan embark on a journey that will teach them to open their hearts to one another, slow down and smell the roses, discover what matters most to them, and enjoy the simple pleasures in life.
Through the richly descriptive setting of Budapest, the reader can't help but become enchanted with the timeless elegance of the city and its majestic thermal baths, mystical landmarks, and the jovial atmosphere of the Hungarian people. As the reader follows Kati and Jan's week long adventures in discovering the essence of Budapest, you can't help but become engrossed in their journey, and then cheer them on when their trans-atlantic romantic relationship strengthens and grows into true love.
Budapest Romance is a delightful and timeless romance story that will resonate with you for a very long time.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of the book from the author in exchange for my honest review and participation in a virtual book tour event hosted by Pump Up Your Book.
http://jerseygirlbookreviews.blogspot...
February 14, 2015
I went into this book with hesitation because I’m not a romance lover and I don’t usually read ‘chick lit’. The premise was fascinating to me and I decided, “why not?” I’m glad that I took the proverbial plunge and delved into this book. The main character, Kati, is mourning the loss of her father while Jan is there to recover from a motorcycle accident. Both of them have been dealt rough hands in life and are hesitant to open up to one another; especially since they are from two entirely different worlds. She is an American and Jan is Dutch; Budapest is just where they happen to meet. It’s fun to see the innocent flirtation of a chance meeting where both notice one another and look away when the other looks.
It’s something that all of us have or may feel someday, that “first look”, the curiosity, the fear of opening up to someone new and taking chances; as it is so relatable, it’s certainly easy to put yourself in Kati’s place…or even Jan’s.
It’s a wonderful story and I have to say, I’m quite delighted that I took a chance. I’m looking forward to her next book, Sense of Touch which is more in my wheelhouse as people say, as it is about Anne of Brittany and Queen of France.
I give this a four out of five; I would have liked more description about Budapest and been enveloped fully into their world. Regardless of that slight error; I enjoyed the book greatly.
It’s something that all of us have or may feel someday, that “first look”, the curiosity, the fear of opening up to someone new and taking chances; as it is so relatable, it’s certainly easy to put yourself in Kati’s place…or even Jan’s.
It’s a wonderful story and I have to say, I’m quite delighted that I took a chance. I’m looking forward to her next book, Sense of Touch which is more in my wheelhouse as people say, as it is about Anne of Brittany and Queen of France.
I give this a four out of five; I would have liked more description about Budapest and been enveloped fully into their world. Regardless of that slight error; I enjoyed the book greatly.
March 1, 2015
4.5/5.0
This story will capture reader’s hearts from the beginning - with the mysteries of the country, healing thermal baths and how many there are throughout the city.
Read full review in the 2015 February issue of InD’tale Magazine.
This story will capture reader’s hearts from the beginning - with the mysteries of the country, healing thermal baths and how many there are throughout the city.
Read full review in the 2015 February issue of InD’tale Magazine.
Read
February 24, 2015 This is a short a sweet romance set in a beautiful place. I love to travel while I read and this fit the bill.
Kati and Jan are magnetic and bewitching. Their attraction and adventures kept me turning pages. A good travel romance for the adventurer.
Kati and Jan are magnetic and bewitching. Their attraction and adventures kept me turning pages. A good travel romance for the adventurer.
January 3, 2025
A Christmas love story set in Hungary, a mildly spicy, endearing, travel romance for the holidays. It’s a nice change of pace to novel set in Budapest that’s light hearted-they’re usually more somber and gritty.
Summary:
Kati is in Hungary for a few weeks to settle her late father’s estate. She enlists the help of her rich and charming lawyer friend to translate the legal matters and finalize the paperwork. But Budapest has more surprises in store.
She first encounters Jan (pronounced Yan) at a thermal spa (Budapest is famous for them). He’s a tall, ripped Dutchman with blond curls and striking ice-blue eyes. He’s immediately infatuated with Kati, who scampers off to her pressing business matters before they can really get to know each other. They keep running into each other in the soothing, steamy waters of the spas. Both simmering with mutual attraction, their romance blooms quickly- under the snowflakes and twinkling lights- they’re enchanted by Budapest at Christmastime.
Yet Kati is cautious Both she and Jan are set to leave the city soon, and their whirlwind romance faces another complication: Kati’s suave lawyer friend, whom Jan worries could offer Kati the world.
When Kati is offered a glamorous new job with incredible travel perks, she must decide if love can overcome distance, competition, and the fleeting nature of holiday magic.
Full of passion, glamour, and the romantic allure of Budapest at Christmas, A Budapest Romance will whisk you away on a journey you won’t want to end. Perfect for fans of travel, holiday love stories, and a touch of European enchantment.
I'm rounding up to about 3.5
Summary:
Kati is in Hungary for a few weeks to settle her late father’s estate. She enlists the help of her rich and charming lawyer friend to translate the legal matters and finalize the paperwork. But Budapest has more surprises in store.
She first encounters Jan (pronounced Yan) at a thermal spa (Budapest is famous for them). He’s a tall, ripped Dutchman with blond curls and striking ice-blue eyes. He’s immediately infatuated with Kati, who scampers off to her pressing business matters before they can really get to know each other. They keep running into each other in the soothing, steamy waters of the spas. Both simmering with mutual attraction, their romance blooms quickly- under the snowflakes and twinkling lights- they’re enchanted by Budapest at Christmastime.
Yet Kati is cautious Both she and Jan are set to leave the city soon, and their whirlwind romance faces another complication: Kati’s suave lawyer friend, whom Jan worries could offer Kati the world.
When Kati is offered a glamorous new job with incredible travel perks, she must decide if love can overcome distance, competition, and the fleeting nature of holiday magic.
Full of passion, glamour, and the romantic allure of Budapest at Christmas, A Budapest Romance will whisk you away on a journey you won’t want to end. Perfect for fans of travel, holiday love stories, and a touch of European enchantment.
I'm rounding up to about 3.5
January 12, 2024
Older Jetsetter Love Triangle Romance
Based on an older businesswoman’s desire for love Budapest Romance is sort of interesting. Katie, the businesswoman, is in Budapest for some business dealings and runs at first into Kristof, whom she is attracted to initially. Kristof is a wheeling and dealing businessman. He is attracted to Katie but there’s a problem that stops him from letting down his guard completely. Simultaneously, at the same meeting or conference, Kati meets Jan, another international businessman. The lukewarm pseudo love triangle never really creates too much tension. The idea of these rich and privileged jetsetters love triangle, on its face, sounds interesting but it is very bland and predictable as a romance. Wished for more. Suppose the Budapest descriptions were more compelling than the passion or desire between the people.
Based on an older businesswoman’s desire for love Budapest Romance is sort of interesting. Katie, the businesswoman, is in Budapest for some business dealings and runs at first into Kristof, whom she is attracted to initially. Kristof is a wheeling and dealing businessman. He is attracted to Katie but there’s a problem that stops him from letting down his guard completely. Simultaneously, at the same meeting or conference, Kati meets Jan, another international businessman. The lukewarm pseudo love triangle never really creates too much tension. The idea of these rich and privileged jetsetters love triangle, on its face, sounds interesting but it is very bland and predictable as a romance. Wished for more. Suppose the Budapest descriptions were more compelling than the passion or desire between the people.
February 28, 2021
Budapest Romance
This book is a delightful romance storyline travelling between two continents. It commences in Budapest. The detail description of the architecture and the abundance of the therapeutic baths all over the city is fascinating.
I usually don’t read strictly romance novels but was pleased and surprised by the in depth descriptions of modern Budapest, it’s wonderful heritage, the baths, and the people. The two main characters fall in love amidst the beauty of The City. Following their travels, their ups and downs through their trials and their lives, is very believable and entertaining. I wish there was more information on Budapest, I found the book engaging to the end.
This book is a delightful romance storyline travelling between two continents. It commences in Budapest. The detail description of the architecture and the abundance of the therapeutic baths all over the city is fascinating.
I usually don’t read strictly romance novels but was pleased and surprised by the in depth descriptions of modern Budapest, it’s wonderful heritage, the baths, and the people. The two main characters fall in love amidst the beauty of The City. Following their travels, their ups and downs through their trials and their lives, is very believable and entertaining. I wish there was more information on Budapest, I found the book engaging to the end.
January 11, 2024
A Journey of Love & Discovery
Budapest Romance by Rozsa Gaston is a real gem.
Right from the get-go with “How could she not notice being noticed?”, you're hooked.
It's all about an American gal rediscovering her roots in Budapest and falling for a guy from a different world.
Gaston nails the vibe of Budapest with spot-on cultural and historical details.
If you're planning your first trip to Budapest or just love a good love story, this book’s for you. Plus, the ending's super satisfying – perfect for a chill night read or a cool gift idea.
Budapest Romance by Rozsa Gaston is a real gem.
Right from the get-go with “How could she not notice being noticed?”, you're hooked.
It's all about an American gal rediscovering her roots in Budapest and falling for a guy from a different world.
Gaston nails the vibe of Budapest with spot-on cultural and historical details.
If you're planning your first trip to Budapest or just love a good love story, this book’s for you. Plus, the ending's super satisfying – perfect for a chill night read or a cool gift idea.
August 4, 2025
Od ove knjige sam ocekivala bolje napisanu romansu, pomalo komediju, dobar ciklit. Ali nista od toga nisam dobila. Nekako je sve napisano povrsno, dosadno. Pomalo i pateticno. Sve je bilo zbrzano. U jednom delu doslo do zbrke, u drugom delu vec proslo godinu dana. Ok, sta se desilo u medjuvremenu? Dosadno, mlako, prosto, naporno. Jedino sto mi se dopalo jesu opisi Budimpeste, jer sam zbog njih pozelela da se vratim u taj grad. Samo zbog toga je knjiga dobila dve zvezdice. Citala sam i mnogo bolje.
October 6, 2018
DNF at 70%
I picked this because I wanted to read a fluffy fun romance set in Budapest, a place I will be traveling to in a month. The beginning, which is set in Budapest, does a solid job of selling me the merits of the place.
But then there was the plot. Kati and Jan have hardly any chemistry. Probably due to her constant overanalyzing of everything and her Puritanical views of sex. I did not expect this book to be *so* Christian. It became unbearable in the second half.
I picked this because I wanted to read a fluffy fun romance set in Budapest, a place I will be traveling to in a month. The beginning, which is set in Budapest, does a solid job of selling me the merits of the place.
But then there was the plot. Kati and Jan have hardly any chemistry. Probably due to her constant overanalyzing of everything and her Puritanical views of sex. I did not expect this book to be *so* Christian. It became unbearable in the second half.
July 14, 2017
So let's be clear, I liked this primarily because it gave me a bunch of things to do in Budapest. It was an easy read but not really compelling. Too neat a finish, but not over the top sappy. If you are looking for something along the line of a bodice ripper or Fifty Shades of Gray, this is not the book for you. But not unenjoyable and again sells Budapest really well
January 14, 2024
What could be better? Two handsome people fall in love on vacation in a beautiful location. They go through some conflict as you can imagine with a long-distance relationship. I love the descriptions of the locations and the history of Budapest. The main character is a little unbelievable but otherwise it is a really enjoyable book. I definitely recommend it.
January 18, 2024
romance + Budapest= beautiful
Having never been there, I was intrigued by the author’s depiction of so many fascinating things in Budapest. I’ve honestly never had the desire to visit, but the vivid journey in this book has made me put it on my bucket list. With that as the rich background, the romance is full of depth and great moments. A great read on multiple levels!
Having never been there, I was intrigued by the author’s depiction of so many fascinating things in Budapest. I’ve honestly never had the desire to visit, but the vivid journey in this book has made me put it on my bucket list. With that as the rich background, the romance is full of depth and great moments. A great read on multiple levels!
January 2, 2018
This book portrayed Budapest in a lovely, inviting way but I didn’t really enjoy the story and could not relate with the main character’s choices.
June 15, 2019
I wanted to read a book set in Budapest before I travel there. The city is probably the only thing I liked about this book. Just too cheesy and badly written for me.
July 21, 2023
Ovo je jedna od onih knjiga koje imaju dobru zamisao ali neverovatno lošu realizaciju. Mozak me je boleo od klišea i gluposti.
O greškama neću pričati.
O greškama neću pričati.
December 25, 2023
Ok, cool. This was different from the Anne of Brittany series, and I thank Jessica for the recommend. This was really delightful!!
October 2, 2016
Nice, sweet quirky romance! Romy Nordlinger is charming to listen to and I hope to listen to more of her books.
December 26, 2020
J'ai beaucoup aimé plus précisément les lieux et places décrites ! On voyage à travers ce livre.
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews