Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Passports and Promises #3

Delayed Departure

Rate this book
When Bethany Beaumont finds a book about life in the sultan's harem, she discovers it's actually a guide to the lost art of seduction. Just what she needs as she departs on a study abroad trip to exotic Istanbul. She's struggling to get over her ex, and the book of dirty little secrets might be just the thing to help...if only she could find someone to practice on.

Half-Turkish and full of Australian swagger, teaching assistant Adam Kent seems to fit the bill. They decide to become lovers for the duration of the trip, and then part ways. Forever.

But not every lesson can be found in a book, and sometimes falling in love changes everything. When Bethany is forced to confront her past, and the promises she made to someone else, will it really be as easy as she thought to let Adam go?

388 pages, Paperback

First published September 9, 2017

14 people are currently reading
269 people want to read

About the author

Abigail Drake

42 books418 followers
Abigail Drake is the award-winning author of twenty-one novels, but she didn’t start her career in writing. She majored in Japanese and economics in college, and spent years traveling the world, collecting stories wherever she visited. She collected a husband from Istanbul on her travels, too, and he is her favorite souvenir.

Abigail is a coffee addict, a puppy wrangler, and the mother of three adult sons. She writes contemporary romance, women’s fiction, and young adult fiction, and has taught workshops for many different writing organizations. In her spare time, she blogs about her dog, Capone, and teaches writing classes for children at her local library.

In 2019, Abigail was awarded an honorable mention for her book "Love, Chocolate, and a Dog Named Al Capone" in the Writer's Digest Self-Published E-book Awards. She is the winner of the 2017 Prism Award for her book "Traveller", the International Digital Award for her young adult novel, "Tiger Lily", and the Stiletto Contest for "Love, Chocolate, and a Dog Named Al Capone." In addition, she was named a finalist in the Golden Pen, the Golden Leaf, the Dante Rossetti Book Award, and the Cygnus Award for Science Fiction and Speculative Fiction.

Abigail is represented by Lauren Bieker of FinePrint Literary Management. For more information, visit her website at www.abigaildrake.net.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
51 (68%)
4 stars
18 (24%)
3 stars
6 (8%)
2 stars
0 (0%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
Profile Image for Anastasia シ.
772 reviews262 followers
December 18, 2017
~ {Blog Tour} Delayed Departure by Abigail Drake ~

Full Review on my blog!
Oh my, Oh my. This was quite a read! This is actually the first book I’ve read of Abigal’s and I’m hooked! I NEEEED moRE! AHhHHHH! Delayed Departure is the second book in the Passports and Promises series, but it can be read as a stand alone! Abigail Drake paints such a beautiful picture of Turkey. The descriptions of these exotic places are so vivid that you feel like you’re there. This wasn’t the typical romance novel; each character has depth and real emotions that are so believable and actually create foundation for love not just lust. I can’t wait to read other books of this author!

Delayed Departure basically starts off with, Greg telling Bethany he won’t be able to go on the study trip to Turkey. Going on this study trip with Greg is something she looks forward to but he backs out at the last-minute for a job offer! I know right! They had this planned for sooo long and he just backs out like that. At first I thought that Greg was a coward and selfish. I mean he basically just hides behind Bethany to keep his secret from his parents, instead of facing them. But at the end of the novel I feel like his character really grows and he really does change. Bethany is in a ‘relationship’ with Greg which we later discover is a fake relationship. Bethany has been covering for Greg for soo long, and it really has taken a toll on her. She constantly puts others before herself. She has grown up with a dream which was shattered two years ago and yet, but she lives in hope. She is literally living a lie. You can tell she’s not happy and is tired of it, but in her mind she has to. But as the story progresses, Bethany is more confident, and she finds a new strength in her that she didn’t know she had; she finally stops being naïve and lets herself be free, ultimately she becomes the person she was meant to be.

So Bethany ends up going on the trip on her own, at the beginning of the trip, she’s unhappy with the turn of events, but she quickly makes friends and start to appreciate the purpose of her visit. I loved how open and friendly all the characters were with each other.

On the trip she meets Adam, an Australian T.A on the trip. They hate each other at first, but slowly warm up to each other. Adam is a sweetheart. He is kind, considerate and doesn’t judge. But no matter what Bethany does, he finds a way to pick on her or make her feel stupid. The thing is though that he doesn’t know her and vice versa. I immediately fell in love with Bethany and Adam. They have such amazing chemistry and I’m a sucker for the “hate you-love you” type romance. They’re bickering and banter is classic and so perfect.

“I looked up and caught Adam staring at me. Again. He seemed quite focused on keeping track of me all day. I had a feeling he wanted to make sure I didn’t get into trouble again, but maybe it was more than that. Our eyes locked for an instant, and I felt certain he’d been thinking about the kiss, too. It made one thought enter my head and simply refuse to leave. If kissing him was so spectacular, what would sleeping with him be like?”

After reading this quote, I really wish we had Adams POV. The descriptions of the ways he looks at her, just makes me want to know what he’s thinking.

This book has mystery, history, romance, culture, travel, and humor throughout. I highly recommend reading this novel, such a good read and you won’t want to put it down, it will sweep you away from the very start. I can’t wait/ hope for more in the Passports and Promises series! :3 Now I gotta go pick up book one!


Blog | Instagram | Twitter | Tumblr | Facebook | Store
Profile Image for Paula  Phillips.
5,689 reviews342 followers
December 6, 2017
Though this is Book #2 in the Passport and Promises series, it can be read as a standalone novel as it is about a different character than Book #1. In Book #2 Bethany is in a relationship with Greg which we later discover is a fake relationship. They were supposed to go to Turkey this summer together and experience life until Greg chucked a wrench in the plans and headed off on an internship in New York. Bethany went alone, and it is here that she starts a hate at first sight relationship with Adam - an Australian T.A on the trip. No matter what Bethany does, he finds a way to pick or make her feel stupid. The thing is though that he doesn't know her and vice versa. As the trip goes on, we are given a more insight look into the relationship and friendship of Greg and Bethany and the arrangement that they have going, we also read as her relationship moves into a love/hate one with Adam. What will happen though when Bethany decides to be with Adam but feels conflicted as she promised to Greg years ago to protect him until he comes of age with his trust fund? What started off as just a trip around Turkey for Bethany will begin the start of finding her path in life and breaking free from the restraints of her friends and family back home and finding a potential love interest and creating new memories.
Profile Image for Colleen.
760 reviews163 followers
October 25, 2017
3 Stars

ARC provided by Backlit PR via NetGalley.

This review contains minor spoilers.

After the disappointment of Girls Who Travel, I was still craving something light with some wanderlust in it. Delayed Departure seemed to fit the bill. It is a New Adult read about a college student, Bethany Beaumont, who goes on a study abroad trip to Turkey. While there she gets involved with someone and deals with issues from her past.

The love story part was fairly standard. It was fun at times if a bit predictable. Despite the standard love triangle and Chick Lit vibe, there was also some more serious topics tied into the story such as sexuality, homophobia, alcoholism, prostitution, and rape. While I appreciated involving deeper topics instead of just fluff, some of them tied into the story more while others seemed just thrown in there. It muddied up the plot. There was even a suspenseful subplot involving some criminal activity, that was occasionally thrown in with the rest of the story but was anticlimactic.

There were references to the first book (which I have not read). I did not initially realize they were references to people and events from the first book and couldn't tell if those were things that would tie into this book (they didn't), so they just confused me and brought up things that were not resolved. And the subplot involving "confronting her past" was far-fetched.

The main character, Bethany, was definitely a poor little rich girl: loaded but with a rather predictable and not in-depth past. But what was the most frustrating was how selfish and irresponsible she was. Not even her far-fetched life drama. I'm talking about how she repeatedly sneaked off at night in foreign cities and sought out the most dangerous neighborhoods because she liked to take pictures of them. Not surprisingly, that lead to trouble. But even after repeatedly ending up in bad situations, being begged by everyone to be more careful, and promising over and over that she would stop, she kept doing it. And that annoyed the hell out of me. It showed that she really was a clueless rich girl with no real concept of danger or consequences. On the other side you had her love interest, Adam, who while fun to read about was a little too perfect. He felt like a character designed to be a heartthrob rather than feeling like a real, complex person.

The romance was very predictable but admittedly still cute. Although there were parts that were toeing the line towards erotica. Lots of adult content. And being a bunch of attractive college students abroad, there was a lot of casual sex as well. It got too agnsty at times.

What the book did really well was the travel and cultural representation. That was hands down the best part of the book. Turkey's history and culture were tied in throughout the story. That aspect was interesting, accurate, and informative without info-dumping. The description of the sights definitely fulfilled my hankering for armchair travel, and the descriptions of the food were scrumptious. They made me hungry more than once!

I had mixed feelings about the book overall. Things wrapped up too cleanly and that took realism away. After all that angst, it was just too neat of an ending with ALL of the threads abruptly and completely tied off into one giant, pretty bow. Life is not like that. For a book that strove to talk about so many real life issues, that took the power away.

Delayed Departures is probably a good choice for someone looking for a New Adult romantic read with more substance than your average Chick Lit, but it is not outstanding. While I did enjoy it well enough, the story had a lot of conflicting aspects that made it hard to decide how to feel about it.


RATING FACTORS:
Ease of Reading: 4 Stars
Writing Style: 3 Stars
Characters and Character Development: 3 Stars
Plot Structure and Development: 3 Stars
Level of Captivation: 4 Stars
Originality: 3 Stars
Profile Image for Alexis Prue.
64 reviews6 followers
October 2, 2017
I realize I waited far too long to post my review for this series. Book 2 just came out on September 9, 2017. If it wasn’t for my oh so crazy life I could have read book 2 in one sitting.

Abigail Drake takes us on a whirlwind of adventure from book 1-parts 1 & 2 all the way to the end of book 2. In book 1-part 1 we meet Samantha Barnes, a young girl aspiring to become a Japanese translator. With quite the determination she does not have time for boyfriends. But as the excerpt says for part two- “What if you meet the right person…at absolutely the wrong time?” In part 2 we see Samantha actually in the country of Japan making her dreams come true. I won’t spoil it, but it is worth the read.

Book 2, a different story, takes us on a Turkish adventure with Ms. Bethany Beaumont, a character who you can’t help but just fall in love with. Such a realistic character. A realistic character with real emotions and real feelings.

My favorite part about Ms. Abigail Drake’s books is her beautifully written imagery. As I read her Delayed Departure novels I imagine myself in the country of Japan in the country of Turkey. I feel like I am there. I see the beautiful scenes right in front of me. they seem unreal, yet they seem more real than you can ever imagine.

I am OBSESSED with the Passports & Promises series. Give us more, Ms. Abigail Drake.
Profile Image for Angelina.
742 reviews
October 6, 2017
Delayed Departure by Abigail Drake is book 2 in her Passports and Promises series. It can be read as a standalone.

“Love is the greatest adventure of all.” - Madame LaRue

Having read Saying Goodbye: Part One and Part Two, I was looking forward to reading Bethany’s story and I wasn't disappointed. The first word that springs to mind when I think about this book is BEAUTIFUL. You can't but help fall in love with Bethany and Adam along with the gorgeous country of Turkey. The way Abigail Drake describes the scenery and culture leaves you wanting to visit Turkey to see everything with your own eyes. I love how Abigail incorporates fact with fiction and the whole story flows together so well.

Again, Abigail deals with difficult and sensitive subjects in this book and I'm so glad that she does because life isn't ‘a bed of roses’ and, unfortunately, some people just aren't as accepting about the life choices others make. Abigail shows how we shouldn't make judgements and each person has their own story to tell if you are willing to listen. I'm left wanting to know more about some of the characters we meet in this book because I feel their stories aren't over yet.

*I voluntarily reviewed an advance complimentary copy of this book
20 reviews15 followers
October 2, 2017
I have read every one of Abigail Drake's books, I was looking forward to this one very much and go it in hand on the official release date. I read it this past weekend and it did not disappoint. While the book is about the characters, the setting for Delayed Departure was so vital and mesmerizing at times I forgot about the people in the story. Drake writes so beautify detailed settings that are not too "wordy" and most defiantly not boring. I want Turkish coffee in the worst way after reading this book. Not to be forgotten is the story of Bethany and Adam, as I hate reviews that summarize the story I'll say this, they are well worth getting to know and please allow yourself ample time to read because you will read well into the night and not take a break!
Profile Image for Christine Osman.
2 reviews1 follower
October 4, 2017
As a lover of old books and bookstores, I enjoyed that the premise of the novel is based on Bethany finding an ancient book on Turkey in a mystical bookstore. The writing depicts her excitement, curiosity, and nervousness as she takes a brave leap to start a new life and become her own person. Having traveled to Turkey several years ago, I felt as a f I was on a virtual tour! The descriptions of the sites, culture, and people were spot on and my second experience of Turkey with Bethany makes me want to go back soon! Abigail Drake does a fantastic job of capturing young angst, young love, and the excitement of new experiences. Great job, Abigail! Where are we going next?
Profile Image for Ashley.
Author 5 books25 followers
January 13, 2018
Bethany Beaumont goes on a study abroad trip to Turkey and ends up with so much more. I enjoyed the different aspects of culture and travel that had been portrayed. There was a lot of information about Turkey that had been woven throughout the book. The imagery was rich, real and beautiful. I didn’t find myself bogged down in the details and lose sight of the characters. I was there.
There were a few things I didn’t like. Bethany as a character bothered me a little. She was very woe is me, selfish and had a disregard for the rules. But it all fit into line with who Bethany was as a character.
The romance and travel was spot on. They are what I enjoyed the most. If you’re looking for a travel themed, new adult/college, read, this is a good one. I’d recommend starting with book one!
Profile Image for Maria Thomas.
17 reviews
September 11, 2017
Abigail Drake does it again! After reading Part One and Part Two of the first book of Passports and Promises: Saying Goodbye, I couldn't wait until the next book, this book, to come out. With much anticipation, Abigail Drake and this book, did not disappoint!! Delayed Departure is just as good, if not better than the first book in the series, and the first book was amazing! Abigail Drake makes you feel like you are apart of the story, in the setting, walking beside the characters of the story, and watching the story unfold. She displays such a beautiful and detailed description, that you feel like you can actually picture the surroundings, the history, and the beauty that is Turkey. I definitely recommend this book! Once I opened this book up, I didn't want to put it down, and couldn't wait to see what happened next!!
Profile Image for Beth Spence.
4 reviews2 followers
September 17, 2017
This was a great read! The characters are interesting and kept me reading to see how they would develop. The setting descriptions make me want to go to Turkey and see these beautiful places for myself!
Profile Image for Jennifer Reese Rohr.
137 reviews
September 15, 2017
Loved it. Makes me want to travel to Turkey. Also would love a coffee table book of the pictures Bethany took.
Profile Image for Patricia Sutkowski.
2 reviews
September 18, 2017
Yet another fabulous book from Abigail! In additional to really interesting storylines and fascinating characters, she paints such a vivid picture of what the characters look like and what their environments are, it really feels like you are there. Delayed Departure is set in Turkey and the descriptions of the locations were so beautifully written that it really makes you want to go visit. I started reading this book and literally couldn't put it down until I finished - Can't wait for her next masterpiece!
Profile Image for Maria Thomas.
17 reviews
September 11, 2017
Abigail Drake does it again! After reading Part One and Part Two of the first book of Passports and Promises: Saying Goodbye, I couldn't wait until the next book, this book, to come out. With much anticipation, Abigail Drake and this book, did not disappoint!! Delayed Departure is just as good, if not better than the first book in the series, and the first book was amazing! Abigail Drake makes you feel like you are apart of the story, in the setting, walking beside the characters of the story, and watching the story unfold. She displays such a beautiful and detailed description, that you feel like you can actually picture the surroundings, the history, and the beauty that is Turkey. I definitely recommend this book! Once I opened this book up, I didn't want to put it down, and couldn't wait to see what happened next!!
Profile Image for Isabelle MBTL .
749 reviews59 followers
December 6, 2017
3.5 stars, closer to 4 than 3


 



 








Everything about Istanbul seemed to be an odd mix of the exotic and the familiar, the old with the new. by Bethany
 






Cover/Title: 5/5  Beautiful! Is really tied to the story. It has meaning and we can see that it was done for this particular book. Great title also, fitting!
Plot: story line 3/5, story ending 4/5, pace 4/5, enjoyment 3.5/5, originality 4/5, writing style 3.5/5  This was well-written, with good pace and cohesive. The story kept me guessing and I've ended wanting more. I've loved visiting Turkey with the book. It felt real!
Characters: hero 4.5/5, heroine 2.5/5, secondary characters  3.5/5   Adam is  almost  perfect. I like him. There are many good secondary characters, I like the friendship created in the book. Overall they were easy to like, connect and understand.
Heat: chemistry  4.5/5, steam  3/5, romance 4.5/5  The romance part of the story was beautiful. It had a few cheese moments, which made the romance sweet at times and there were other times with more spice. Their chemistry was undeniable from the first moment, and it has been portrayed in the book with them fighting all the time, trying to avoid the unavoidable.
Freshness: The concept of the book is unique. Even though the recipe of the romance is a bit predictable, the book feels different and memorable.
Addictiveness: Easy to read, not very easy to let go.


 




Plot:  Too much going on at the same time. There were so many subplots, lots of deep topics, but at the end not everything  explained in-depth.
Character: Bethany got on my nerves. She had so many to-stupid-to-live moments that I don't want to comment so I won't spoil your experience. She was stubborn and liked to use the word independence as a cape, but for me it felt childish and stupid.


 




Istanbul has always been a crossroads, a bridge between east and west, and history itself was stamped on the faces of the Turks. by Bethany





 

First, I would like to say that I haven't read the first book, and after a while I understood that some passages were references from book 1. I have understood this story perfectly, but I would say my enjoyment would have been higher if I had read book one. I'm a bit obsessed with connecting all the dots. :)

The best part here was how the author "painted" a perfect picture of Turkey and how well she took us in a journey through the culture and history of the country. The description of the food was amazing. Really well done. It has me really looking forward to this series to see what other places can I discover and visit through her stories.

There were a lot of deep topics mentioned in the book such as coming out, alcoholism, homophobia, rape, dysfunctional family, and prostitution. I would have liked to see some of them explored in-depth. There was also a murder, but if felt rushed.

Suspense 3/5  Darkness 0/5  Humor 1/5  Action 3/5 Angst 3.5/5 Twists 2/5 

Recommend this book: Yes

Read more from the author: Yes

Re-read this book: I'm not sure. Maybe if I need for a full view of the series.

 

You MAY read this because you have followed the series; you SHOULD read this if you like romance; you MUST read this for a culture experience!!!





 


 
This review was originally posted on More Books Than Livros
Profile Image for Brigitte .
1,611 reviews24 followers
November 30, 2017
Delayed Departure is a wonderful excursion in the historical and cultural aspects of Turkey. It's very well presented and has an unusually complicated love story.

Bethany is from a wealthy family, but she isn’t happy. Although she has her flaws, she puts the happiness of others before her own. She has grown up with a dream which was shattered two years ago and yet, she lives in hope. She lives a lie!

She is meant to be go on a study trip to Turkey with her ex, Greg. Something she is looking forward to. He backs out at the last minute and she goes on the trip by herself. At the start, she is miserable with the turn of events, but soon makes friends and start to appreciate the purpose of her visit. She is an excellent photographer and her aim is to capture as much of the culture as possible.

When she meets Adam, the Teaching Assistant, it's hate at first sight! Whenever they meet sparks fly even when underneath it all, there is magnetism. He misjudged her and when he discovers that she is different from what he initially thought, he becomes more amenable. Eventually, the fire that burns between them erupts, but nothing is straightforward. Bethany is trapped. She has made a promise, one that's hard to ignore. She cares. Will she be able to keep her promise and go after what her heart desires at the same time?

I thought that Greg is a coward and selfish. He hides behind Bethany to keep his secret from his parents, instead of facing them. She is naïve enough to go along with his plans until she realises that she has a lot to lose. I found her to be irritating at times. She is irresponsible and inconsiderate by venturing on her own in a foreign land without telling anyone. She causes the others in the group to worry. Yet, her intentions are good and something good does come out of it. Adam is a sweetheart. He is kind, considerate and doesn't judge.

This addresses the prejudice against homosexuals and the unhappiness it causes. It's a spellbinding and realistic story. It's heartbreaking at times, but there are fun times too. It's all about growing up and doing what's right without being selfish. The romance between Adam and Bethany grows steadily and becomes intense. The storyline is a complex love triangle, but everything falls nicely into place. Definitely worth reading.

I was kindly issued with an eARC and the views expressed are my personal opinion.
Profile Image for Cassie C.
631 reviews60 followers
December 3, 2017
See more reviews on my blog Novels and Necklaces

Actual rating: 4.5 stars

Abigail Drake has made me fall in love once again with this sequel in the Passports and Promises series! I absolutely adored the first book in this series, Saying Goodbye, Part One &Saying Goodbye, Part Two, but she outdid herself with this installment. With gorgeous writing and the sweetest romance, this is perfect for any romance lover.

One of my favorite aspects of Abigail Drake's gorgeous prose is her attention to detail, but not too much detail. You are instantly transported to Istanbul, Turkey and every scene is richly described so you feel like you are right there sipping Turkish coffee with the characters. Honestly, this book makes me have so much wanderlust it's unbelievable. When I looked up the places the characters visited on Pinterest after finishing, I was awestruck with the beauty of the country while also blown away by the fact that I already knew what every place looked like due to the descriptions in the book. But Ms. Drake not only depicts the setting in the perfect way, but also her characters. You can easily tell how much love and effort she puts into writing the characters in all of her novels, and this book especially.

I immediately fell in love with Bethany and Adam. They have undeniable chemistry and I'm always a sucker for the "hate you-love you" type romance. They're bickering and banter is classic and oh-so-perfect. I truly felt like I knew these characters way before the halfway point, and I loved watching both Bethany and Adam grow over the course of the novel. Bethany especially grows stronger and more confident. She finds a new strength in her that she didn't know she had and allows herself to be set free of the burdens plaguing her at home. Ultimately she allows herself to become the person she was always meant to be.

I highly recommend reading this novel (and this series in general) as it is truly a fantastic read that will sweep you away from the very start. Prepare to lose yourself in a gorgeously written story that reminds us all to break free and become our true selves. Check this out now!!

Happy reading :)
Profile Image for Carrie (The Butterfly Reader).
1,033 reviews95 followers
November 24, 2017
Bethany has been in love with her best friend Greg for years. She wants nothing more then a happy life with him. Though it can never happen. Instead they play pretend, just so he can keep his secret.

Everything changes when he backs out of their trip to Turkey and she goes alone. Things change as she slowly starts to learn why she can't keep living a lie.

First thing I want to say is how stupid Bethany is. She keeps going out along in a foreign country... even after she's been warned not to and even after she's been chased by a pimp. Yeah the girl isn't very bright. I don't even care her reasoning. She does get a little better towards the end. So that's something good. I do feel bad for her struggle, I think she should've come to decision a lot faster but hey, everyone is different.

Adam was cute, a little too beta male for my tastes but it was so cute to watch how much he cared for Bethany. How much he wanted her to choose the right thing. I think he should've left her and found someone else after she still planned to meet Greg at the hotel with the intent to go along with his plan. I just think that he's a more interesting character then Bethany, he seems to have more going on. I loved watching them fall in love.

Now even though there's a murder in this book, it's very fluffy. Fluffy like the white clouds in the sky. There is small little subplots that try to be darker but the overall arc is just a sweet romance at it's core. If you're looking for a quick romance, this is for you.

There is some cheesy parts in this book and I loved them. I'm a sucker for cheese in romance novels. That being said, there was some parts that made me roll my eyes and want to throw my kindle at the wall. These parts got easier to overlook as the book went on as I just wanted to know if Bethany was going to wise up and take her life for herself.

There is also a few gay characters in here if you're looking for that.

So overall, yes, I recommend this book to anyone who wants a fluff-ball book.

Copy provided by Xpresso Book Yours for an honest review
Profile Image for Terri.
1,667 reviews
February 12, 2018
This is book two in a series. I haven't read the first book, but this one works fine as a standalone.
Bethany has spent her life doing what other people expect. She is even fake girlfriend to a man she's hopelessly in love with, dreaming that he will eventually choose her over his true nature. A trip to Turkey begins to slowly change her way of thinking. As she falls in love with the beautiful and exotic sights, sounds, and foods, Bethany also becomes attached to the other students in her group. These people see her for who she really is, and they like that person. Adam is the exception, as he seems to dislike and lust after her at the same time. And what she feels for Adam is definitely not like anything she's ever felt for Greg.
I loved this story. The descriptions of the many places Bethany visited made me feel like I was with her. I could almost taste the food and hear the music. I felt the heartache that Bethany felt as she was torn between what she wanted and what she felt she needed to do. I adored Adam and found the eventual romance to be completely sigh-worthy. And, though this is told completely from Bethany's point of view, I felt Adam's understandable frustration with her unwillingness to follow rules. I was more worried about Bethany's safety than she was herself.
In so many ways, this is like a fairy tale. The clumsy and insecure heroine (or beautiful princess, if Bethany were telling the story) fights to find her way to her own dreams. Everyone she meets falls under her spell, and she even finds true love along the way. I most definitely recommend this story.
Profile Image for Angelina.
742 reviews
October 6, 2017
Delayed Departure by Abigail Drake is book 2 in her Passports and Promises series. It can be read as a standalone.

“Love is the greatest adventure of all.” - Madame LaRue

Having read Saying Goodbye: Part One and Part Two, I was looking forward to reading Bethany’s story and I wasn't disappointed. The first word that springs to mind when I think about this book is BEAUTIFUL. You can't but help fall in love with Bethany and Adam along with the gorgeous country of Turkey. The way Abigail Drake describes the scenery and culture leaves you wanting to visit Turkey to see everything with your own eyes. I love how Abigail incorporates fact with fiction and the whole story flows together so well.

Again, Abigail deals with difficult and sensitive subjects in this book and I'm so glad that she does because life isn't ‘a bed of roses’ and, unfortunately, some people just aren't as accepting about the life choices others make. Abigail shows how we shouldn't make judgements and each person has their own story to tell if you are willing to listen. I'm left wanting to know more about some of the characters we meet in this book because I feel their stories aren't over yet.

*I voluntarily reviewed an advance complimentary copy of this book
Profile Image for Kate_mrs539.
377 reviews8 followers
December 9, 2017
I LOVE this story!

Delayed Departure was so much more than a love story. This was a full on adventure! The only reason I ever put this book was because I had to do life, otherwise this would have 100% been a binge from beginning to end...and I wouldn't have minded at all!

All of the characters are amazingly colorful and draw you in immediately to their little group. I definitely felt part of this group from my side of the book.

Bethany being the main character in this book was someone that I could relate to. I loved her passion for photography and breaking down the barrier between normal tourist and a genuine interest in all things no matter where she was. Super inquisitive and I really loved that about her.

I think Adam was a great match for her. Alpha, in control, seemingly all knowing...he was really a complete package and watching him fall for Bethany was really fun. He really cared for her and everything she wanted...oh to be loved like that.

This is the first story by Abigail Drake that I have read, but I am intrigued. I loved this and will be checking out her other work.

Because I loved this so much I am giving it 5 stars.
Profile Image for Bookish.
1,474 reviews27 followers
December 22, 2017
A sweet coming of age love story. After years of pining for her first love, Bethany decides to make fresh start on her own in a study abroad program in Turkey. Stumbling across an old book about "the secrets of the harem" she decides the book might hold the key to her happiness. When first arriving Bethany's meets Adam a teacher’s assistant in her study program despite a mutual attraction, Adam seems uninterested and constantly argues with Bethany. Of course it doesn't help that Bethany is always arriving late, getting lost and even falling into fountains. As the trip progresses and Bethany learns more secrets from the book, her and Adam begin to fall for each other. But nothing is easy Bethany’s past love shows up, she witnesses a potential crime and losses her chance at her dream school program. This book is filling with ups and downs as well as some very intriguing mishaps. A fun, well written love story with just right amount of drama. Highly recommended and will be reading many more from this author.
3 reviews2 followers
June 17, 2019
This was the first book I read by Abigail Drake and I must say I was quite pleased and hooked! This is book 2 in the series, but it can be read as a stand alone book. I eventually did read book 1 and I loved every minute of both in this series! I love the characters and plot and for me some of the predictable love story is quite OK because I personally love the romance of things and knowing or hoping it will turn out as I want it to. I have to say Bethany is a favorite character of mine so far. I will read this again some day for sure. I loved her adventurous side and how she is lost in finding things to photograph or just her love of books. Viewing the world and adventure through the character's eyes is in my opinion how I would see it- I could relate to Bethany. If you haven't read any stories from Abigail Drake I definitely recommend this story!
Profile Image for Penny Watson.
Author 12 books510 followers
March 2, 2023
Oh my. This was sooooooo romantic and swoony. Adored this book!

Abigail Drake is turning into a favorite author. This story brings Turkey to life in such a rich and romantic way--the people, the food, the architecture. The setting is lush and exciting--the perfect backdrop for this story. I fell in love with the surfer-archaeologist hero...he is wicked smart, sexy, and super protective of the sometimes-flaky heroine.

Drake's writing is excellent. Good pacing, a fascinating mix of characters, gorgeous development of setting. My only complaint is that some of the external conflict seemed unnecessary (and was somewhat unresolved), and the protagonist has one big TSTL moment near the end of the book that was hard to take. But the super satisfying and romantic ending was the best sort of HEA.

Grade: A-
Profile Image for Jolene St Germain Triggs.
762 reviews9 followers
December 1, 2017
I'm still processing this and I put the book down thirty minutes ago. This was a very sweet tale of intrigue and love in all its forms. Its full of fun, young love, mystery, travel, and smart banter. A rarity in my recent reads, this book had no profanity and the love scenes were sweet somewhat tame. It reminded me of fairy tale love stories and I'd recommend it to younger readers or some of my friends who enjoy the romance but appreciate a little milder heat than what you normally find out there. I REALLY enjoyed the travel aspect, the reader made me feel like I was right there with her.
Profile Image for Natalie Casey.
454 reviews23 followers
December 28, 2017
I absolutely loved this book! this is book 2 in the series, but can be read as a standalone. I haven't read the first book, but I'm so going to read it now! This will hit you in the feels! I loved the playful banter between Bethany and Adam, and the love they have for each other.
This is the first book I've read by this author, and I can say it won't be the last. I loved the story line, and the beautiful way it was written. so beautifully descriptive, it makes you feel like you're right there in the book. I fell in love so hard with this book!
I received this Arc and I'm voluntarily leaving a review❤❤
Profile Image for Izzybear.
755 reviews
February 15, 2018
This was the first book I’ve read by this author. It was a very enjoyable read. The more the story progressed and the characters developed I found myself drawn in, liking and caring for them more. I liked the author’s attention to detail. Her descriptions of the different places that Bethany visited made it easy to imagine them and created lovely images in my mind’s eye. I’m really glad Bethany found her happiness and was able to follow her passions. I look forward to reading more from this author.
Profile Image for Jennifer.
49 reviews5 followers
March 6, 2018
This is the first book I have read by this author. I was completely enthralled. The exotic places were so well written that you feel like you are there. I enjoyed her descriptions throughout the book.
Bethany and Adam have the perfect amount of hot/cold, love/hate, and push/pull. I honestly can't say enough great things about this book.
I am excited to read more from this author! This book was so well written with such in depth descriptions as well as characters. Please don't let this book get by you. It is definitely a 5 star read!
Profile Image for Lizzi.
2,091 reviews16 followers
January 9, 2018
I enjoyed this story and all of the Turkish history and historical monuments. The author’s descriptions of the places that Adam and Bethany went made me feel like I was there with them. It made me wish that I was younger so I could do the same tour!! Loved the romance with the suspense of this story.
Profile Image for Grace grace_loves_books13.
443 reviews27 followers
December 21, 2017
I really enjoyed this book!!! Loved the exotic setting, and I loved the steamy romance. Sometimes I wanted to shake some sense into the main character, but in a good way, as a friend! Intense chemistry and the passion oozed off the pages. Impressed! Highly recommend!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.