What do you think?
Rate this book
The Hopeful Years #2
The Baobab Beach Retreat
An ex-husband, two potential lovers, one reckless decision. Will Connie ever be happy in love?
When Connie Stone leaves behind a cheating husband and heartache in the UK for her aunt’s beach retreat, the last thing she wants is for her life to once again be complicated by men.
Yet when her past follows her to Tanzania, her time to heal is short-lived and a selfish act shatters her hopes for a fresh start. An unexpected return to the UK reveals a long-hidden family secret that Connie has to deal with before she can decide the direction her life should take.
Getting over a broken heart was never going to be easy. Can Connie put the past to rest and find peace and love in a country far from home?
When Connie Stone leaves behind a cheating husband and heartache in the UK for her aunt’s beach retreat, the last thing she wants is for her life to once again be complicated by men.
Yet when her past follows her to Tanzania, her time to heal is short-lived and a selfish act shatters her hopes for a fresh start. An unexpected return to the UK reveals a long-hidden family secret that Connie has to deal with before she can decide the direction her life should take.
Getting over a broken heart was never going to be easy. Can Connie put the past to rest and find peace and love in a country far from home?
Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2020
617 people are currently reading
296 people want to read
About the author
Kate Frost
30 books200 followersKate Frost has wanted to be an author ever since she wrote her first novel during the long months she spent off school following open heart surgery when she was seven. The novel was called London's Burning and was a time travel story set during the Great Fire of London.
Over the years Kate has worked in a cinema, a bookshop, a factory and as a part time lecturer at Bath Spa University teaching lifewriting to Creative Writing undergraduates. She's also worked as ground staff at Edgebaston Tennis Tournament, as a Virgin Vie consultant and as a Supporting Artist in the films Vanity Fair, King Arthur and The Duchess.
Kate has a MA in Creative Writing from Bath Spa University and has had articles and short stories published in The London Magazine, New Welsh Review and QWF. She now works as a freelance writer/author and lives in the UK with her husband, her son and their dog.
Over the years Kate has worked in a cinema, a bookshop, a factory and as a part time lecturer at Bath Spa University teaching lifewriting to Creative Writing undergraduates. She's also worked as ground staff at Edgebaston Tennis Tournament, as a Virgin Vie consultant and as a Supporting Artist in the films Vanity Fair, King Arthur and The Duchess.
Kate has a MA in Creative Writing from Bath Spa University and has had articles and short stories published in The London Magazine, New Welsh Review and QWF. She now works as a freelance writer/author and lives in the UK with her husband, her son and their dog.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
June 10, 2019
Atmospheric, tender, and hopeful!
The Baobab Beach Retreat is a warm, sweet, emotive tale set in the beautiful country of Tanzania that takes us into the life of the heartbroken, embittered Connie as she flees to her Aunt’s resort to rejuvenate after a painful divorce, recuperate from years of infertility, embark on a new career, and perhaps even fall in love once again.
The writing is heartfelt and evocative. The characters are complex, supportive, and genuine. And the plot is an engaging, uplifting tale full of family, friendship, tender moments, dramatic events, self-discovery, and a little adventure.
Overall, The Baobab Beach Retreat is a charming, engaging, escapist read by Frost that reminds us that life is for living to the fullest, and there’s no better place for taking chances and finding happiness than where the animals roam freely, the water is warm, the sand is hot, and the sun is shining brightly.
Thank you to Kate Frost and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The Baobab Beach Retreat is a warm, sweet, emotive tale set in the beautiful country of Tanzania that takes us into the life of the heartbroken, embittered Connie as she flees to her Aunt’s resort to rejuvenate after a painful divorce, recuperate from years of infertility, embark on a new career, and perhaps even fall in love once again.
The writing is heartfelt and evocative. The characters are complex, supportive, and genuine. And the plot is an engaging, uplifting tale full of family, friendship, tender moments, dramatic events, self-discovery, and a little adventure.
Overall, The Baobab Beach Retreat is a charming, engaging, escapist read by Frost that reminds us that life is for living to the fullest, and there’s no better place for taking chances and finding happiness than where the animals roam freely, the water is warm, the sand is hot, and the sun is shining brightly.
Thank you to Kate Frost and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 11, 2019
4.5 Stars. This is a beautiful, emotional story about dealing with loss, second chances, family, and romance, all in a beautiful setting. Connie Stone is trying to rebuild her life following her husband's betrayal, the loss of her unborn child and an attempted suicide. She heads to Tanzania to spend time with her Aunt Bella at her exclusive resort. While there she begins to heal until her ex shows up and Connie makes some unexpected decisions that could cost her the new peace she was beginning to find. Other secrets and revelations along the way force Connie, Bella, her family and Theo to make decisions and figure out what family means and what they are willing to do to protect it.
This is the perfect summer read. I loved the descriptions of the various settings. I want to head to South Africa to see it myself. The story was well plotted with a couple of huge twists that had me racing through this story. The characters were real and very well developed. I could envision them and felt like these were people I would like to know. I felt for Connie and all she had gone through and was still going through. She has so much baggage that she had to deal with and she was so lucky to have people to help her through some of it. I loved watching her grow and move on as she learned new things about herself. I do not want to give this story away, but suffice it to say, this story has a Happily Ever After, but there is so much to deal with to get to that ending. Between the exotic locations, the wonderful characters, the sexy men and the love of family, there is something for everyone in this book.
This is the perfect summer read. I loved the descriptions of the various settings. I want to head to South Africa to see it myself. The story was well plotted with a couple of huge twists that had me racing through this story. The characters were real and very well developed. I could envision them and felt like these were people I would like to know. I felt for Connie and all she had gone through and was still going through. She has so much baggage that she had to deal with and she was so lucky to have people to help her through some of it. I loved watching her grow and move on as she learned new things about herself. I do not want to give this story away, but suffice it to say, this story has a Happily Ever After, but there is so much to deal with to get to that ending. Between the exotic locations, the wonderful characters, the sexy men and the love of family, there is something for everyone in this book.
September 20, 2018
Romance novel set in TANZANIA and on ZANZIBAR
I had put this novel to one side to take on an upcoming trip to Tanzania – practising what we preach and all that – and it turned out to be a quite delightful and well put together book. As I read through the novel there were such strong parallels with my own trip. The tides sweep the Indian Ocean away every 12 hours, the pumpkin soup is indeed ubiquitous and the prevalence of honeymooning couples is notable! It is the place to come for a really varied trip from a variety of safari experiences to exotic beaches with fine sand… and the odd VERY old baobab tree!
So, what’s the story about? Connie has just broken up with her husband Felix after he has misbehaved and he really couldn’t have been more crass about his actions. They were also trying to have a baby which would in theory have been the crowning glory of their relationship. It was not to be.
Connie heads out to stay with her Aunt Bella who runs not only a beach resort at fictional Mchanga but also a lodging in Stone Town on Zanzibar and is in the process of rebuilding The Baobab Beach Retreat on the coast, again on Zanzibar. There is also a side trip to the Selous Game Reserve which is smaller and less crowded than some of the more famous ones dotted around the country.
Not only is Connie recovering from a disastrous relationship but Bella too has had a tricky time with her husband Geoff. Geoff is the brains behind some of their joint ventures and the two manage to have a decent working relationship. Geoff’s illegitimate son Jamil (keep up!) is also part of the working group, and he has always taken a shine to Connie.
Theo is the new manager at Mchanga, a rather handsome man who naturally catches Connie’s eye. Jamil (Geoff’s son) is clearly smitten too, although he is quite a lothario. With loss and a fair few ill-judged decisions under her belt, can Connie find lasting happiness?
I enjoyed this book for all kinds of reasons and it is just as good as other romance novels I have read that grace the booksellers’ tables. For me, however, the cover is really unprepossessing – it is sand-coloured and therefore reflects the kind of setting but the genre just doesn’t come across. The yellow ochre colour is on the dull side and just didn’t entice me to pick up the book, yet the content is definitely worth reading – especially if you are heading to Tanzania!
The novel it will make you question your day to day life and buy into the idea that running a beach resort, in a beautiful, exotic location might just be possible….
I had put this novel to one side to take on an upcoming trip to Tanzania – practising what we preach and all that – and it turned out to be a quite delightful and well put together book. As I read through the novel there were such strong parallels with my own trip. The tides sweep the Indian Ocean away every 12 hours, the pumpkin soup is indeed ubiquitous and the prevalence of honeymooning couples is notable! It is the place to come for a really varied trip from a variety of safari experiences to exotic beaches with fine sand… and the odd VERY old baobab tree!
So, what’s the story about? Connie has just broken up with her husband Felix after he has misbehaved and he really couldn’t have been more crass about his actions. They were also trying to have a baby which would in theory have been the crowning glory of their relationship. It was not to be.
Connie heads out to stay with her Aunt Bella who runs not only a beach resort at fictional Mchanga but also a lodging in Stone Town on Zanzibar and is in the process of rebuilding The Baobab Beach Retreat on the coast, again on Zanzibar. There is also a side trip to the Selous Game Reserve which is smaller and less crowded than some of the more famous ones dotted around the country.
Not only is Connie recovering from a disastrous relationship but Bella too has had a tricky time with her husband Geoff. Geoff is the brains behind some of their joint ventures and the two manage to have a decent working relationship. Geoff’s illegitimate son Jamil (keep up!) is also part of the working group, and he has always taken a shine to Connie.
Theo is the new manager at Mchanga, a rather handsome man who naturally catches Connie’s eye. Jamil (Geoff’s son) is clearly smitten too, although he is quite a lothario. With loss and a fair few ill-judged decisions under her belt, can Connie find lasting happiness?
I enjoyed this book for all kinds of reasons and it is just as good as other romance novels I have read that grace the booksellers’ tables. For me, however, the cover is really unprepossessing – it is sand-coloured and therefore reflects the kind of setting but the genre just doesn’t come across. The yellow ochre colour is on the dull side and just didn’t entice me to pick up the book, yet the content is definitely worth reading – especially if you are heading to Tanzania!
The novel it will make you question your day to day life and buy into the idea that running a beach resort, in a beautiful, exotic location might just be possible….
April 21, 2019
This easily had all my favourite things in one handy book:
- Exotic Location of Tanzania
- Gorgeous scenery
- Sexy men (more than one of them)
- A character following her heart
- Hotels / Holidays - well I do love travel
- And best of all it was all an experience so far removed from my own normal holidays that I am now wondering when I can fit in a trip to Africa as I do love animals.
I'd never really given Tanzania and Zanzibar much thought at all, other than knowing they are in Africa, so when a book came onto my radar featuring gorgeous sounding holiday location, I just knew I had to read it. And best of all the author is planning a series of books set in other foreign destinations I can't wait!
I devoured this story on a hot bank holiday weekend in my garden, where I was enjoying the start of the year's sun, and was able to easily imagine myself by Connie's side as she rediscovers the place that has been in her heart for 16 years since her last trip to see her aunt Bella.
The writing was really evocative and conjured up some fabulous images in minds eye, at all of the different locations that were featured.
Add in an ex-husband, severe sadness in Connie's recent past, and the chance to heal in the sun, in what turns out to be a working holiday, and you have the ingredients for what was a fabulous escapist read.
The story moves along at quite a quick pace, and you aren't too bogged down in the minutiae of the characters days, just all the key elements, which add up to some great storytelling, and a brilliant way to pass the time, lost in the lives of these characters.
There are even a few surprises along the way, a couple of curve balls thrown, that just add to the drama and attractiveness of the story to me.
I really loved every moment of this rather exotic book, and can't wait to see where the series takes us next.
Thank you to Kate Frost for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
- Exotic Location of Tanzania
- Gorgeous scenery
- Sexy men (more than one of them)
- A character following her heart
- Hotels / Holidays - well I do love travel
- And best of all it was all an experience so far removed from my own normal holidays that I am now wondering when I can fit in a trip to Africa as I do love animals.
I'd never really given Tanzania and Zanzibar much thought at all, other than knowing they are in Africa, so when a book came onto my radar featuring gorgeous sounding holiday location, I just knew I had to read it. And best of all the author is planning a series of books set in other foreign destinations I can't wait!
I devoured this story on a hot bank holiday weekend in my garden, where I was enjoying the start of the year's sun, and was able to easily imagine myself by Connie's side as she rediscovers the place that has been in her heart for 16 years since her last trip to see her aunt Bella.
The writing was really evocative and conjured up some fabulous images in minds eye, at all of the different locations that were featured.
Add in an ex-husband, severe sadness in Connie's recent past, and the chance to heal in the sun, in what turns out to be a working holiday, and you have the ingredients for what was a fabulous escapist read.
The story moves along at quite a quick pace, and you aren't too bogged down in the minutiae of the characters days, just all the key elements, which add up to some great storytelling, and a brilliant way to pass the time, lost in the lives of these characters.
There are even a few surprises along the way, a couple of curve balls thrown, that just add to the drama and attractiveness of the story to me.
I really loved every moment of this rather exotic book, and can't wait to see where the series takes us next.
Thank you to Kate Frost for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
July 22, 2021
I throughly enjoyed this book, at times it was deep and some of that I identified with from my own personal experiences.
I’m glad the ending wasn’t typical, it made the story more realistic.
I think also, it helped me learn a lot and has given me some help to heal.
I’m glad the ending wasn’t typical, it made the story more realistic.
I think also, it helped me learn a lot and has given me some help to heal.
Want to read
April 6, 2020🎁 FREE on Amazon today (4/6/2020)! 🎁
October 4, 2024
Engaging, Entertaining, Adventurous
Contemporary Fiction/Romance/Family Drama
The Baobab Retreat by Kate Frost - Author 🏖🏢
Connie has fled to the safety of her Aunt Bella’s hotel in Tanzania following the worst twelve months of her life. She needed to escape the proximity to her soon-to-be ex-husband and the ever present reminders of what her life could have been. She tells Bella that she has not just come for a holiday, she wants to work whilst she is there to earn her keep. Her Aunt is insistent that she enjoy her time there first, and so she takes advantage of all there is to see and do across Bella’s business empire. After relocating with Bella to her larger holiday resort by the beach, she starts her new role of Guest Advisor. However, she is greatly unsettled by one unexpected guest, an encounter which she handles badly and damages a professional relationship that could have developed into more. Bella sends Connie to look at a new hotel and resort premises, but on her return, Bella informs that she has received a telephone call from her brother, Connie’s father, and he wants her to return to the UK, where she discovers a long held secret in the midst of the worse circumstances, that threatens to rock the foundations of her world and change her relationships with her immediate family forever.👙🥽
This is now my sixth book by Kate Frost. I enjoy the insight that her books and writing give with regards to different locations, and this book seemed very different to her others that I have read so far, being set in Africa. Her writing is vividly descriptive and you can actually picture the white sand and clear blue sea or the African plains on Safari. In fact, I had a picture in my head for everywhere that the main character was. The narrative particularly hit differently for me when Connie was requested to return home by her father and how they impacted on the main character. For me, it felt like the twist in this book made more of an impact because of the different environments, her parents home being so rooted to her younger self, and not a place where she was most at ease compared to her Aunt’s home where she is happy and relaxed, showing both sides of Connie. Her time in the UK also allows the author to widen her cast of characters and for the reader to get to know the people with whom she has grown up with, and therefore more about her. I was particularly struck by the Author’s interpretation of how an ordinary everyday scene can quickly become chaotic when a child is present, when Connie goes to visit her friend Charlotte whilst back in the UK. The creation of Charlotte’s son, Arthur and the difficulties that were demonstrated in attempting to have a conversation whilst having a toddler around were deftly illustrated. I have attempted many times to have conversations with friends who are mums to small children, and the narrative voice in my head connected to that scene perfectly. I like that Kate Frost gives the same importance to her side characters which Charlotte is, as she does to her characters who are central to the storyline. Kate’s dialogue for each of the individuals within her novels flawlessly put across their different temperaments and this book is no exception from the grumpy, introvertedness of Connie’s father differing from the warmness and caring nature of Bella to the cheeky, flirtatious and laddish ways of Jamil. 🇹🇿 🇬🇧
When Connie receives the confusing and devastating bombshell that initially blows her world apart, I did have an idea as to the explanation, but nevertheless thought this a really good twist to follow a few other developments that had already played out and the reader is currently (well I was) wondering how those events will be affected by her having to return home.♥️💔
As always, Kate Frost presents us with a lively and diverse range of likeable characters with the exception of maybe one or two, created purely to cause conflict, create suspense or change the feel of the narrative. The ending was a totally heart-warming surprise, and was I thought, a lovely way to conclude Connie’s story. I will be continuing with Kate’s books, particularly as it is now winter in the UK and I need to be mentally transferred to sunnier climes. 📖
Contemporary Fiction/Romance/Family Drama
The Baobab Retreat by Kate Frost - Author 🏖🏢
Connie has fled to the safety of her Aunt Bella’s hotel in Tanzania following the worst twelve months of her life. She needed to escape the proximity to her soon-to-be ex-husband and the ever present reminders of what her life could have been. She tells Bella that she has not just come for a holiday, she wants to work whilst she is there to earn her keep. Her Aunt is insistent that she enjoy her time there first, and so she takes advantage of all there is to see and do across Bella’s business empire. After relocating with Bella to her larger holiday resort by the beach, she starts her new role of Guest Advisor. However, she is greatly unsettled by one unexpected guest, an encounter which she handles badly and damages a professional relationship that could have developed into more. Bella sends Connie to look at a new hotel and resort premises, but on her return, Bella informs that she has received a telephone call from her brother, Connie’s father, and he wants her to return to the UK, where she discovers a long held secret in the midst of the worse circumstances, that threatens to rock the foundations of her world and change her relationships with her immediate family forever.👙🥽
This is now my sixth book by Kate Frost. I enjoy the insight that her books and writing give with regards to different locations, and this book seemed very different to her others that I have read so far, being set in Africa. Her writing is vividly descriptive and you can actually picture the white sand and clear blue sea or the African plains on Safari. In fact, I had a picture in my head for everywhere that the main character was. The narrative particularly hit differently for me when Connie was requested to return home by her father and how they impacted on the main character. For me, it felt like the twist in this book made more of an impact because of the different environments, her parents home being so rooted to her younger self, and not a place where she was most at ease compared to her Aunt’s home where she is happy and relaxed, showing both sides of Connie. Her time in the UK also allows the author to widen her cast of characters and for the reader to get to know the people with whom she has grown up with, and therefore more about her. I was particularly struck by the Author’s interpretation of how an ordinary everyday scene can quickly become chaotic when a child is present, when Connie goes to visit her friend Charlotte whilst back in the UK. The creation of Charlotte’s son, Arthur and the difficulties that were demonstrated in attempting to have a conversation whilst having a toddler around were deftly illustrated. I have attempted many times to have conversations with friends who are mums to small children, and the narrative voice in my head connected to that scene perfectly. I like that Kate Frost gives the same importance to her side characters which Charlotte is, as she does to her characters who are central to the storyline. Kate’s dialogue for each of the individuals within her novels flawlessly put across their different temperaments and this book is no exception from the grumpy, introvertedness of Connie’s father differing from the warmness and caring nature of Bella to the cheeky, flirtatious and laddish ways of Jamil. 🇹🇿 🇬🇧
When Connie receives the confusing and devastating bombshell that initially blows her world apart, I did have an idea as to the explanation, but nevertheless thought this a really good twist to follow a few other developments that had already played out and the reader is currently (well I was) wondering how those events will be affected by her having to return home.♥️💔
As always, Kate Frost presents us with a lively and diverse range of likeable characters with the exception of maybe one or two, created purely to cause conflict, create suspense or change the feel of the narrative. The ending was a totally heart-warming surprise, and was I thought, a lovely way to conclude Connie’s story. I will be continuing with Kate’s books, particularly as it is now winter in the UK and I need to be mentally transferred to sunnier climes. 📖
June 14, 2019
4.5 stars
I'm a big fan of reading novels set in exotic, off the beat locations and The Baobab Beach Retreat hits the spot for me as I devoured this thought-provoking escapist romance.
For Connie Stone, going back to Tanzania is an opportunity to put some much-needed distance between herself and her cheating husband. On arrival, she embraces the familiarity of the place and the people she hasn't seen in many years. Whilst some things about her Aunt Bella's place are just as she remembers, others are different. Soon it becomes clear she too could be part of the plans Bella has for her business as a shocking secret from the past is exposed.
As the heroine of the story, Connie is a likeable woman who most readers will relate too. She's vulnerable but determined to put her life back on track. She embraces the chance to make herself useful at Mchanga, Bella's exclusive resort but also makes a few errors of judgement decisions as she settles into her new role. As an open-minded reader, I understand how Connie landed herself in the situations but importantly, there's no long-lasting harm or hurt feelings-only life lessons learned.
Ms Frost captures the essence of what makes Africa so special. The descriptions bring alive the ambience of Zanzibar and mainland Tanzania; the locations, food and architecture. For those of us who have been lucky enough to have travelled within the African continent, it's a chance to reminisce about the charm of the place even if it's not specifically Tanzania. The narrative is beautifully crafted by this new to me author. I was instantly sold on the location yet the plot is equally satisfying with far more depth than I anticipated-a positive reaction from me.
Ms Frost made it easy to imagine where the protagonists and notable characters are as much as the issues and conflicts they experience. I enjoyed the unexpected contrast and appreciated Connie's story has far more substance than a fluffy holiday romance. It's a gem of a read!
Overall, this novel has it all; heartache, intrigue and romance against a stunning tropical backdrop-perfect.
***Review copy received courtesy of the publisher Lemon Tree Press***
I'm a big fan of reading novels set in exotic, off the beat locations and The Baobab Beach Retreat hits the spot for me as I devoured this thought-provoking escapist romance.
For Connie Stone, going back to Tanzania is an opportunity to put some much-needed distance between herself and her cheating husband. On arrival, she embraces the familiarity of the place and the people she hasn't seen in many years. Whilst some things about her Aunt Bella's place are just as she remembers, others are different. Soon it becomes clear she too could be part of the plans Bella has for her business as a shocking secret from the past is exposed.
As the heroine of the story, Connie is a likeable woman who most readers will relate too. She's vulnerable but determined to put her life back on track. She embraces the chance to make herself useful at Mchanga, Bella's exclusive resort but also makes a few errors of judgement decisions as she settles into her new role. As an open-minded reader, I understand how Connie landed herself in the situations but importantly, there's no long-lasting harm or hurt feelings-only life lessons learned.
Ms Frost captures the essence of what makes Africa so special. The descriptions bring alive the ambience of Zanzibar and mainland Tanzania; the locations, food and architecture. For those of us who have been lucky enough to have travelled within the African continent, it's a chance to reminisce about the charm of the place even if it's not specifically Tanzania. The narrative is beautifully crafted by this new to me author. I was instantly sold on the location yet the plot is equally satisfying with far more depth than I anticipated-a positive reaction from me.
Ms Frost made it easy to imagine where the protagonists and notable characters are as much as the issues and conflicts they experience. I enjoyed the unexpected contrast and appreciated Connie's story has far more substance than a fluffy holiday romance. It's a gem of a read!
Overall, this novel has it all; heartache, intrigue and romance against a stunning tropical backdrop-perfect.
***Review copy received courtesy of the publisher Lemon Tree Press***
November 14, 2017
This is a truly beautiful story, expertly crafted and written. It follows on from Beneath the Apple Blossom and continues the journey of Connie who is trying to rebuild her life following her husband's betrayal. Kate Frost is a master at painting the scene and even if you've never visited Tanzania and Zanzibar (which I haven't) you feel like you're there and that you know the place intimately.
I love how the author weaves in new characters yet also deals with Connie's past. There's plenty of action and twists too, especially when Connie discovers a dark, family secret. The romance is there in abundance and there's plenty of 'will they, won't they' moments to keep the reader guessing.
This book is brilliantly written and is an absolute must read, especially if you want that feel-good factor.
If you've never read Kate's work before then make sure you go back and get Beneath the Apple Blossom first and I guarantee, once you've read that and come onto this one, you'll be a firm fan. Can't wait for her next book. Another triumph, Kate.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
I love how the author weaves in new characters yet also deals with Connie's past. There's plenty of action and twists too, especially when Connie discovers a dark, family secret. The romance is there in abundance and there's plenty of 'will they, won't they' moments to keep the reader guessing.
This book is brilliantly written and is an absolute must read, especially if you want that feel-good factor.
If you've never read Kate's work before then make sure you go back and get Beneath the Apple Blossom first and I guarantee, once you've read that and come onto this one, you'll be a firm fan. Can't wait for her next book. Another triumph, Kate.
*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review*
November 20, 2017
I adored the first book in this series and am happy to report that the second lived up to its reputation! I was given a copy of this book and am voluntarily reviewing it. This book completely focuses on Connie after she finds out her husband is a cheater. She starts divorce proceedings and runs away to Tanzania to visit her Aunt Bella. While she is there, she is given a new job planning excursions for guests. Beyond all that, Connie has two different love interests and some complicated family relations to sort out.
I loved the kind of adventure that Connie was having as a woman in her late thirties. It proved that it’s never too late to start over and be someone new. I enjoyed watching Connie grow and develop. The locations took me out of my world and to exotic and beautiful places. I loved the descriptions. It was a great contrast to have Connie’s life in ruins and yet to be in such luxurious places. This book has everything good in women’s fiction. It deals with serious issues, family drama, adventure, and romance. The pace of the book was great and it kept my interest the whole time. I’ve really enjoyed this series and can’t wait to read the next one!
I loved the kind of adventure that Connie was having as a woman in her late thirties. It proved that it’s never too late to start over and be someone new. I enjoyed watching Connie grow and develop. The locations took me out of my world and to exotic and beautiful places. I loved the descriptions. It was a great contrast to have Connie’s life in ruins and yet to be in such luxurious places. This book has everything good in women’s fiction. It deals with serious issues, family drama, adventure, and romance. The pace of the book was great and it kept my interest the whole time. I’ve really enjoyed this series and can’t wait to read the next one!
April 3, 2025
Africa
After Connie finds out her husband is cheating, she has her 2 miscarriage in 9 months. While she is doing treatments to become pregnant her husband is out Tom cattin. She breaks and slashes her wrist, to get away from the pain . Her Aunt Bella invites her to come to Mchanga. A campment they provide luxury accommodations out in the wild. So she does. It’s beautiful, it far away from UK,peaceful quite. Who wouldn’t love it.
So she relaxes a few days then she wants to be put to work. Theo is the manager, good looking, strong,easy to talk to. So they began a good friendship. Then her ex shows up trying to win her back. Connie try’s to avoid him. But the end up alway together. Connie just wants to hurt her ex for all the pain he caused her. So she sleeps with Theo. She really does like him …but she is just not thinking straight.
Bella comes back sees he’s there she loses it. Tells him to get out. How dare he come to Connie’s peaceful place. Now several people aer listening when it come out that he is Connie Ex and then he tells Bella that Connie is sleeping with the manager.
After Connie finds out her husband is cheating, she has her 2 miscarriage in 9 months. While she is doing treatments to become pregnant her husband is out Tom cattin. She breaks and slashes her wrist, to get away from the pain . Her Aunt Bella invites her to come to Mchanga. A campment they provide luxury accommodations out in the wild. So she does. It’s beautiful, it far away from UK,peaceful quite. Who wouldn’t love it.
So she relaxes a few days then she wants to be put to work. Theo is the manager, good looking, strong,easy to talk to. So they began a good friendship. Then her ex shows up trying to win her back. Connie try’s to avoid him. But the end up alway together. Connie just wants to hurt her ex for all the pain he caused her. So she sleeps with Theo. She really does like him …but she is just not thinking straight.
Bella comes back sees he’s there she loses it. Tells him to get out. How dare he come to Connie’s peaceful place. Now several people aer listening when it come out that he is Connie Ex and then he tells Bella that Connie is sleeping with the manager.
January 26, 2023
I chose to read this book as part of an Around the World in 80 books challenge, and picked this one due to its setting in Tanzania. What a treat this book was!
Book trigger warnings: infertility, miscarriage, infidelity, death
While the novel is not as light a read as one might expect from the travel romance genre, it is an excellent story with wonderful and vivid descriptions of various places in Tanzania, including on Zanzibar. It’s definitely made me want to book a flight out!
Kate Frost touches on some very raw topics, including struggles with infertility and miscarriage, as well as spousal infidelity. The main character, Connie, has to tackle her grief and feelings of betrayal throughout the book, and these aspects of the plot bring a lot to the story.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I’d love to see a sequel about what happens next for Connie, Theo and Bella! Or maybe even a spin off story about Jamil finding his one true love…
4.5 stars, rounded up.
Book trigger warnings: infertility, miscarriage, infidelity, death
While the novel is not as light a read as one might expect from the travel romance genre, it is an excellent story with wonderful and vivid descriptions of various places in Tanzania, including on Zanzibar. It’s definitely made me want to book a flight out!
Kate Frost touches on some very raw topics, including struggles with infertility and miscarriage, as well as spousal infidelity. The main character, Connie, has to tackle her grief and feelings of betrayal throughout the book, and these aspects of the plot bring a lot to the story.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book and I’d love to see a sequel about what happens next for Connie, Theo and Bella! Or maybe even a spin off story about Jamil finding his one true love…
4.5 stars, rounded up.
June 19, 2019
Thank you to the author and Rachel's Random Resources for providing me with a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
Now, this is a book I really needed to be reading heading into winter! After discovering a cheating husband Connie heads to Tanzania for a well-deserved retreat. Not only did it feel like I got to escape to Tanzania alongside Connie but this was an incredibly evocative and well-written book which really allowed me to get lost in the story. It was great to see Connie evolve as a character as she deals with her divorce and a few other surprises which are thrown her way. It was also great getting to see hotel life and traveling and all that it entails. A really awesome four star read!
Rating: 4/5
Would I read again: Yes
Would I Recommend: Yes
Would I read another book from this author: Yes
Now, this is a book I really needed to be reading heading into winter! After discovering a cheating husband Connie heads to Tanzania for a well-deserved retreat. Not only did it feel like I got to escape to Tanzania alongside Connie but this was an incredibly evocative and well-written book which really allowed me to get lost in the story. It was great to see Connie evolve as a character as she deals with her divorce and a few other surprises which are thrown her way. It was also great getting to see hotel life and traveling and all that it entails. A really awesome four star read!
Rating: 4/5
Would I read again: Yes
Would I Recommend: Yes
Would I read another book from this author: Yes
September 19, 2018
Getting it right in an exotic place.
Connie has come face to face with many of the demons life threw at her and beat them down. While learning to be comfortable with herself she runs once again into tall, dark and handsome Jamil. Some she knew him when she was 21 and he was 12 when she was the recipient of his first crush he has developed charm and become a true ladies man and still intent on fulfilling those 12 year old fantasies. But in the end more mature Them wins out and as a reader you are pulling for him. He has no lack of good and manly looks himself. All this with a background of family skeletons in the closet coming into the daylight.
In the end we are all happy.
Connie has come face to face with many of the demons life threw at her and beat them down. While learning to be comfortable with herself she runs once again into tall, dark and handsome Jamil. Some she knew him when she was 21 and he was 12 when she was the recipient of his first crush he has developed charm and become a true ladies man and still intent on fulfilling those 12 year old fantasies. But in the end more mature Them wins out and as a reader you are pulling for him. He has no lack of good and manly looks himself. All this with a background of family skeletons in the closet coming into the daylight.
In the end we are all happy.
December 21, 2017
I love Kate Frost's voice, she is a wonderful storyteller.
Having read the first book in The Hopeful Years series, I had to read this one to discover how Connie's life moved on after tragedy and hurt.
Connie has made the ultimate move - to Tanzania. And the author paints such a vivid picture of it that you are almost there. Unfortunately Connie hasn't managed to leave her past behind and has some revelations to face.
I enjoyed Connie's growth throughout the story and the way romance develops naturally. Though I didn't get the ending I'd have liked, a big thumbs up to the author giving the ending the story needed.
A lovely read!
Having read the first book in The Hopeful Years series, I had to read this one to discover how Connie's life moved on after tragedy and hurt.
Connie has made the ultimate move - to Tanzania. And the author paints such a vivid picture of it that you are almost there. Unfortunately Connie hasn't managed to leave her past behind and has some revelations to face.
I enjoyed Connie's growth throughout the story and the way romance develops naturally. Though I didn't get the ending I'd have liked, a big thumbs up to the author giving the ending the story needed.
A lovely read!
May 29, 2021
Wonderful read that takes you away to a wonderful warm beautiful island in Tanzania. Story made me feel I was there with Connie as she arrived a broken woman to become a happy contented woman, who finally meets the love of her life Theo who is just the kindest man ever who just wanted to be happy and make Connie happy. Felt the anger when Felix turned up in Tanzania, sadness when she had to go back home due to her mums illness, to also find out her life had been lie but loved how her and Bellas bond became ever closer and the ending with her and Theo running the beach retreat was a fantastic ending ~ left me feeling happy and warm 😀
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2021
Fantastic read
OMG another wonder read by Kate Frost! Thoroughly enjoyed following Connie from when she arrived broken in Tanzania to the happy contented woman she became. Felt like I was with her every step of the way, was annoyed when Felix turned up both in Tanzania and at her mum's funeral, then felt her pain when she learnt her life had been a lie in part but such a happy outcome with Bella. As for Connie & Theo, I was over the moon they became a couple and now running the beach retreat. Took we away to a wonderful place
OMG another wonder read by Kate Frost! Thoroughly enjoyed following Connie from when she arrived broken in Tanzania to the happy contented woman she became. Felt like I was with her every step of the way, was annoyed when Felix turned up both in Tanzania and at her mum's funeral, then felt her pain when she learnt her life had been a lie in part but such a happy outcome with Bella. As for Connie & Theo, I was over the moon they became a couple and now running the beach retreat. Took we away to a wonderful place
September 22, 2022
Exciting and Romantic
This was truly an adventure. Many ups and downs for Connie but the story went into details about her survival. It helps us to see how we can get through some horrific issues and eventually come out to enjoy love and happiness. Connie sensed that she was different from the rest of her family and eventually learned why. Her connection to Bella had always been special and in the end the truth came out. The location of this story was incredible. I wished I was there as well just enjoying the peace of the ocean and the love of those around me
This was truly an adventure. Many ups and downs for Connie but the story went into details about her survival. It helps us to see how we can get through some horrific issues and eventually come out to enjoy love and happiness. Connie sensed that she was different from the rest of her family and eventually learned why. Her connection to Bella had always been special and in the end the truth came out. The location of this story was incredible. I wished I was there as well just enjoying the peace of the ocean and the love of those around me
April 21, 2019
Solid 3 star
Really well written but don't read this expecting a light read to distract you from a bad mood, especially if you are struggling with grief. Story and characters are great but not what I expected (an escape from the stuff in my head) amd with extensive depth of character in some pretty heavy content. Expected something lighter and more escapist. So the issue is expectations, not a fault of the author.
Really well written but don't read this expecting a light read to distract you from a bad mood, especially if you are struggling with grief. Story and characters are great but not what I expected (an escape from the stuff in my head) amd with extensive depth of character in some pretty heavy content. Expected something lighter and more escapist. So the issue is expectations, not a fault of the author.
July 14, 2020
I absolutely loved this book! I had a hard time putting it down, definitely a page turner. It has everything you could want in a novel, romance, betrayal, secrets, love. Not to mention a great depiction of the resorts to get you intrigued and wanting to go on multiple vacations! Great storyline, highly recommend!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 7, 2022
As a frequent visitor to Tanzania, mainly Morogoro, Bagamoya, Arusha & Zanzibar this book took me straight back there & I found myself wondering about the exact locations . It was an enjoyable storyline that explored the traumas of broken relationships & betrayal as well as the heartbreak of multiple miscarriages. A bereavement brings to a head a family secret held since birth & with the truth revealed comes a sense of place & of peace.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 23, 2020
I really enjoyed this book. I wanted to see where Connie's life took her, having read Beneath the Apple Blossom. It is set in Tanzania and I went to Malawi in 2011, having visited a Boabab plantation as part of the trip, the book also brought alive memories of a wonderful visit. A really lovely book.
March 2, 2023
Beach romance
What a wonderful read. I felt as if I was at the beach resort with them. The characters come to life in this romance and what a twist when her mother passes away and her final words are such a mystery. Aunt Bella runs a successful beach resort in Tanzania and Connie doesn't want to leave
What a wonderful read. I felt as if I was at the beach resort with them. The characters come to life in this romance and what a twist when her mother passes away and her final words are such a mystery. Aunt Bella runs a successful beach resort in Tanzania and Connie doesn't want to leave
October 20, 2024
Perfect
I loved this book and didn't want it to ever end. The setting was interesting, and the way it was written, you could picture how beautiful the vistas were. The characters were so well fleshed out. You felt that if they were real and walked up to you that you would know them immediately.
I loved this book and didn't want it to ever end. The setting was interesting, and the way it was written, you could picture how beautiful the vistas were. The characters were so well fleshed out. You felt that if they were real and walked up to you that you would know them immediately.
August 9, 2025
Loved that this book was set in Tanzania and Zanzibar—the reason I picked it up. However, so much more description was given to buildings and interior design than the actual cultural context/setting. Extremely minimal inclusion of Tanzanian nationals as characters. Writing became quite redundant as the story went on.
October 2, 2018
A treat of a retreat.
This book is wonderful. There is never a dull moment plus, it keeps you guessing. It is so true to life. It made me feel like I was on location in every scene. I highly recommend it.
This book is wonderful. There is never a dull moment plus, it keeps you guessing. It is so true to life. It made me feel like I was on location in every scene. I highly recommend it.
October 20, 2020
This book
I am really struggling with this book just read 25% and so far reads like a travel brochure and not much of a story line.
Will have to leave it for now and maybe pick it up another time
I am really struggling with this book just read 25% and so far reads like a travel brochure and not much of a story line.
Will have to leave it for now and maybe pick it up another time
March 18, 2021
I loved this story!! I read the whole novel in two sittings I just found it so hard to put down. The only thing I didn't like was the rather abrupt ending which spoilt my enjoyment to be honest and that's why I gave 4 stars instead of 5
September 3, 2022
A lovely easy holiday read. Connie escapes to Tanzania to work at her aunt's holiday retreat while she overcomes some personal issues. She meets some new people and a few from her past. While working there her life changes direction and she uncovers a big secret family secret.
March 3, 2023
Great Escape
Great book with some interesting characters. And the setting in Tanzania is outstanding! Makes me want to rent a beach stay at this resort. Recommend this easy reading ok.
Great book with some interesting characters. And the setting in Tanzania is outstanding! Makes me want to rent a beach stay at this resort. Recommend this easy reading ok.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews