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The Great Greek Escape

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Sun, sea and a sizzling romance… the perfect holiday, right? Wrong. After a work party gone disastrously wrong, Samantha suddenly finds herself jobless and jilted. So when her sister invites Sam to stay at her little whitewashed farmhouse on a Greek island, Sam leaps at the chance to escape. Before long, she’s trundling up the cobbled driveway, almost colliding with sexy neighbour Spyros. It isn’t all sunshine and smiles though. For every afternoon spent lounging by the pool, cocktail in hand, there is a morning spent adjusting to life with boisterous six-year-old nieces. When Spyros invites Sam to explore the island with him she’s tempted, but with his carefree, live-for-the-moment attitude, he couldn’t be more different to Sam with her five-year plans and high-maintenance hair. One drink, as friends, couldn’t hurt though? Over glasses of fruity Greek wine and honey-sweet baklava, can he – and the other charming locals – help city girl Sam to appreciate the simple pleasures the Greek life has to offer? Just as Sam is considering ditching her designer gear for good though, she runs in to an old flame from home, and suddenly her London life comes hurtling back. Can her smooth-talking ex convince Sam to return to the concrete jungle, or will the lessons she’s learned from her Greek escape persuade her to stay? A fun, fabulous and completely laugh-out-loud summer read perfect for fans of Carole Matthews, Jenny Colgan and Sophie Kinsella.

257 pages, Kindle Edition

Published May 28, 2021

326 people are currently reading
487 people want to read

About the author

Sue Roberts

34 books166 followers
Sue was born in Liverpool and moved to Lancashire as a teenager where she has lived ever since. She has written three books, the third 'My Summer of love and limoncello.' will be published on March 6th and she is busy working on a fourth book. When not busy writing, Sue spends her time with her ever growing family. She enjoys walking, cinema and travelling. Her first book 'My Big Greek Summer.' was inspired by frequent visits to the Island of Rhodes in Greece. All Sue's books are available from Amazon in kindle and paperback format.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 157 reviews
Profile Image for Bonnie DeMoss.
932 reviews182 followers
May 31, 2021
TV personality Sam suddenly finds herself in the media spotlight, and not in a good way. With her career on the skids and her love life in a shambles, Sam decides to take a break and visit her sister in Greece.

This is a pleasant romance that would make a nice beach read. Some of Sam's adventures will make you grimace in sympathy, and some will make you smile. This a fun read for a summer day. It's a reminder that the people who are there for you when everything seems the worst are your true family and friends. 3.5 stars, rounded up to four.

I received a free copy of this book from Bookouture via Netgalley. My review is voluntary and my opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Chelsea.
202 reviews21 followers
May 7, 2021
Samantha is a morning talk show host in Britain. Think Kelly Ripa. Lol After being caught in a photo that while looks bad is truly just an unfortunate mistake, she's no longer Britain's darling and is suddenly known by far more colorful names. To give things time to die down, she visits her sister in Greece. Sam intends to just go for the summer, but as the slower pace and nicer people make her feel much more relaxed than she has in years she truly wonders why she's in Britain at all.

I really wanted.to love this one as the synopsis claims that among others this book would be reminiscent of Sophie Kinsella. That couldn't be farther from the truth. This book was neither a romantic comedy nor hilarious. That's not to say its a bad book per say, but there's not even really one comedic incident let alone a book worth. The only interesting characters were her sister Fi and Nick and the twins! There wasnt even much romance. More of her being stuck between two men and one was so absolutely horrible I'm unsure why she gave him any consideration at all beyond their first meal together.The story was predictable and while that's ok in some romances, the lack of romance made it kind of meh. The secondary character stories were kind of thrown in as well but were kind of unnecessary. The descriptions of Greece were beautiful however. Maybe skip this if you're looking for a romance or any sort of comedy. Its more a fictional location read.

⭐⭐⭐

Thank you to NetGalley, Sue Roberts, and Bookouture for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for nαомι αndιno.
189 reviews59 followers
April 27, 2021
A scandal at work sends Sam to spend the summer with her sister’s family in Rhodes, Greece. There, she meets Spyros and the two show immediate sparks but she also reunites with an old flame. Sam faces numerous choices involving her work and love life.

I love romances in foreign destinations, and since I just read a YA romance in Greece, I thought I’d try out a more adult one. I loved the detailed descriptions of Rhodes and also the mention of local foods and some Greek phrases.

I didn’t really like Sam’s character but I loved Sofia, the girls and of course, Spyros. I feel like the Aron plot line was a tad necessary, I would have loved it more if the romance was centered around Spyros and Sam. Also, I though it would have been steamier than it actually was. It was a great book, but I felt like something was missing.

I’m glad I discovered Sue Roberts though, and I can’t wait to read some of her other novels.

I received an ARC from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Kayla.
97 reviews
April 22, 2021
This was such a light hearted summery read! Overall the writing was good and I found it easy to read! Some parts were a little too cringey for my liking. Sam finds herself in the middle of a scandal back home in London and escaped to her sister’s house in Greece for the summer to let it all blow over. She also finds her self reconnecting with an old love and kindling a new relationship while in Greece. Summer romance? Yes please. I was so frustrated with Sam for not making up her mind sooner though!! I absolutely love the small town of Rhodes that the book is set in though. It’s described beautifully and all the residents are so nice. I definitely fell in love with all the characters, they all had a way of pulling you in. I find Sam’s relationship with her family to be so wholesome that it makes me sad that it’s over. I wish there was more to read! I’m definitely going to check out Sue Roberts other books now!

Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for this advanced readers copy!
Profile Image for Lucy C.
368 reviews56 followers
April 20, 2021
You always know what you are getting with Sue's books. Whisked off your feet to a beautiful location.

Sam a TV Presenter runs off to her sisters farmhouse after escaping the media.

This book drew me in immediately, the stunning villages of Greece the cute quirky restaurants and Moussaka that I could just devour right now.

Whilst reading I could feel that I was there with Sam strolling along those sandy beaches with the warm breeze blowing through my hair.

I absolutely loved this and enjoyed all the characters, the twins were just a joy!

A perfect pick me up that we all need right now.

Highly recommended and a well deserved ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ from me.
Profile Image for Ashley Tyler.
1,286 reviews58 followers
May 30, 2021
Thank you NetGalley, author Sue Roberts, and Bookouture publishing for giving me a free arc of this book in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
5 stars
If you are looking for a great summer read, this book is for you! This book is more than a romance, but a journey of life decisions. Sam is a TV presenter that spends the night with a man, who turns out to be married. When reporters capture a picture of Sam kissing the married man in a hotel lobby, the social media labels Sam a homewrecker and causes troubles for her job. Determined to take a break from all the bad comments, she decides to spend the summer with her sister and her family in Rhodes, Greece. While spending time away from all the stresses of London and her career, Sam crosses paths with two amazing men, one is Aaron, her first love and the man who broke her life, and her neighbor Spyros, who is all gentleman and nice guy. Which man is the one Sam is meant to be with?
I really enjoyed reading this book, especially Sam's family and her nieces. I loved the author's writing! She had a wonderful ability to put the reader in the beautiful landscape of Rhodes, Greece. All the side characters were nice and fresh touch to the story. Sam was a well written character! Her conflicts were realistic and allowed her to grow towards to kind of life she wanted as well as getting her HEA. The ending was well satisfying and wrapped up the characters' storylines perfectly!
It's funny and heartwarming story, I recommend it for light reading, it's perfect beach read. I look forward to reading more books by this author!
Profile Image for Sammysreads.
192 reviews36 followers
May 13, 2021
EDIT: Now "Going Greek"

I'll be honest - I initially chose to review this book because the cover was so bright and beautiful which was a massive contrast to the books I've been reading lately. Luckily, I was not disappointed!
The Great Greek Escape follows television presenter Sam as she navigates negative public drama after a seemingly fun night out. The next day, poor Sam is in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons and online trolling and articles start to take over her once perfect life. Sam can no longer watch her public downfall so she heads to Greece for a break where her celebrity will be unknown. Here she unpacks the situation and learns a lot about herself and what is really important in life.
What I enjoyed about this book was how relatable it was. In the days of social media and easy photography, any tiny slip up or embarrassing event can be recorded and quickly spread around.
I found myself reflecting on the importance of self discovery and the enjoyment of the smaller things in life throughout this book.

Thanks for Netgalley and Bookouture for an e-Arc in exchange for an honest review
Profile Image for Melike.
488 reviews
May 6, 2021
This is a very cute and light romance that takes place on the beautiful Agean island of Rhodes, Greece.
Sam is a TV presenter in London who finds herself in an embarrassing scandal and decides to get away to visit her sister in Rhodes. While she is there, she meets a local guy, Spyros AND runs into her first love from high school. Will she find romance with one of them?

A fun and quick read with a gorgeous setting. A solid 4 stars.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the chance to review this delightful book.
Profile Image for Claire.
1,862 reviews16 followers
April 29, 2021
You can always count on a Sue Roberts novel to transport you away from rainy old England to a Mediterranean destination. The Great Greek Escape follows Sam Southern. She’s a tv presenter on Wake Up Britain and is looking forward to the summer break. She’s planning to visit her sister and her family who live on the gorgeous Greek island of Rhodes. However following the wrap party which had gone disastrously wrong, Sam finds herself both jobless and loveless so decides to head to Rhodes earlier than planned.

She enjoys spending evenings with neighbour Spyros and enjoying the slower pace of life wondering if she could get used to a life in this sleepy village. But when a love interest from her past pops up, reminders of her London life return. Can she really give all that up?

I loved this book. Having been lucky to visit Rhodes a couple of years ago I was familiar with some of the places. She’s descriptions had me yearning to get back on a plane to savour the famous Greek delicacies, drink the local wine and relax on one of the many beautiful beaches. I was hooked from page one and completely devoured each page. A wonderful five star read.

Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for the chance to review.
Profile Image for Robin Loves Reading.
2,898 reviews453 followers
May 28, 2021
After being called a homewrecker after sleeping with a married man, Samantha finds herself without a job. A well-known television personality, now haunted by the paparazzi, Sam takes her sister Fiona up on her offer to visit her and her family in Greece. Life is beautiful on the tiny island, including spending time with her twin six-year-old nieces. Then she meets Spyros, a handsome man who gives her a tour of the island.

However, Spyros is not the only man Sam meets. She runs into first love Aaron and Sam wonders if she indeed has romantic options. After all, she sees how happy her sister and parents are in their marriages, so is there hope for her after all?

Will Sam return to London and get back in front of the camera? What about the relaxed live in Greece? Is she ready to get back to the grind or is there something there that can change the course of her life?

What a fabulous story by Sue Roberts! A delightful story from beginning to end. I loved Sam, Fiona, the twins and Spyros. I loved how happy and carefree her mother was. I loved the contrast between Sam's life in London and her time in Greece. Lastly, I loved the slow build of the romance, leaving the reader to see whether or not she would end up with Spyros or Aaron or no one at all.

Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Madison McDaniel.
175 reviews
May 27, 2021
Going Greek follows Sam Southern, a very successful TV anchor (or presenter in the UK) who seems to have her life together. After a night out with her TV crew, she decides she deserves some fun and goes back to a man's hotel room. It isn't until the next morning, after they've parted ways, that she finds out he is married and the public already knows.

To get away from the ensuing media craze, she jets off to Greece to spend the summer with her sister and her family. While there, Sam learns the value of slowing down and enjoying the little things, and of course the value of good Greek cooking!

Overall, I gave this book a 3 out of 5. I thought the story was so close to being exciting, but needed some more oomph. The book is billed as a romantic comedy, but I didn't find myself laughing (which isn't too much of a surprise for me) but I also didn't fall in love with any of the characters. The romance definitely felt like a way off to the side plot and I would have loved to see more of the slow build instead of just the final moments.

The writing style of the book was really what threw me. It felt off to me, which was maybe because the book was written in present tense which I'm not used to. But also Roberts spends a lot of time telling instead of showing.

The setting in the Greek country side was dreamy, and I loved feeling like I was traveling even from my living room in Minnesota. I loved Fi's family and the comedy of errors that was always around them. I just wish the rest of the book gave more.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy of the book in exchange for my review.
Profile Image for Elaine - Splashes Into Books.
3,883 reviews136 followers
June 8, 2021
This is a lovely book to escape into, with great characters, a beautiful setting and plenty of sunshine and laughter, too!

Samantha is a popular, hard working presenter on morning television and is really looking forward to her summer break. However a one-night stand has her being vilified in the press and social media as the other participant is, unknown to her, a married man. Bad publicity results in cancelled contracts and a need to escape so she flies off to stay with her big sister and her family who live and farm on the Greek island of Rhodes. That’s when the fun really starts. Her twin six year old nieces, the Greek neighbours, an unexpected encounter with an ex-boyfriend all add together to create an engaging, fun read that really did have me laughing out loud.

Told from Sam’s perspective, it is easy to relate to all the dramas affecting Sam, her family and friends. However, it isn’t just about how Sam relates with them, there are several other relationships which develop through the story. It is a story about family, re-thinking priorities, love, life choices and learning to work to live instead of living to work. It also highlights the negative impact of social media when judgements are made without any actual evidence – and just how fickle those judgements can be! If you’re looking for a fun read to help you escape to the sun and put a smile on your face, grab yourself a copy of this delightful book!

Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.
Profile Image for Matteja LV .
682 reviews28 followers
May 29, 2021
What a perfect holiday read! I really enjoyed it while reading, and it isn't based solely on romance but rather on life-turning decisions.
Story is about TV presenter Sam, who had a one-night stand with stranger, that turns into the headlines the following days.
Sam escapes to Greece where her sister with family lives and takes a well deserved time off. She meets handsome neighbor Spyros, who is all gentleman and nice guy. But! She meets her first love Aaron too! And he wants to reconcile with her. Sam is confused, but plans to follow her heart. Where will it lead her too?

_______
I really enjoyed reading about this book, especially about Sam's family and her nieces. Scenery was really good written, I had a feeling what does Rhodes look like. All the side characters were nice and fresh touch to the story.

Sam has some conflicts, she doesn't know how to proceeded with her life, but with the help of her family and friends, she deserved her HEA.

It's funny and heartwarming story, I recommend it for light reading, it's perfect beach read.
Thanks to author and Netgalley for receiving ARC copy. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Kim.
2,120 reviews64 followers
September 28, 2021
I was drawn deep into the wonderful pages of this book. could imagine the sights and smells in Greece. empathise with Sam's life challenges, enjoyed the family feelings and romance in the air. There are decisions to be made and you feel part of it.
I always enjoy Sue Roberts books and this was a wonderful summer read.
Profile Image for Bookworm86 .
1,973 reviews137 followers
May 23, 2021
BLOG TOUR REVIEW

Review for 'Going Greek' by Sue Roberts.

Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Sue Roberts, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous

Publication date 28th May 2021.

This is the first book I have read by this author.

I was originally drawn to this book by its eye catching cover and its intriguing synopsis and title. The synopsis stated this book is 'A fun, fabulous and completely laugh-out-loud summer read perfect for fans of Carole Matthews, Jenny Colgan and Sophie Kinsella'. I am a huge fan of Jenny and Sophie so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).

This novel consists of a prologue, 24 chapters and an epilogue. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!

This book is based in London, UK 🇬🇧 and Greece 🇬🇷 . The bonus for me of books that are partly or fully based in the UK is that I live in the UK and have sometimes visited places mentioned in the book which makes it easier to picture. I have actually visited London on several occasions so am looking forward to see if I recognise anywhere.

This book is written in first person perspective and the main protagonist is Sam. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them.

This book is beautifully written and completely absorbs you in the stunning atmosphere of Greece and really sucks you in with the vivid descriptions leaving you feel the warmth of the the sun and smell of the sea. The synopsis and cover suits the storyline perfectly.

The storyline is authentic and realistic as well as easy to read and heartwarming. I loved reading all the developments at the farm, the ups and the downs. There were plenty of events going on throughout and it kept me hooked from start to end, I read it in one sitting. The storyline was filled with a range of emotions and was heartwarming, devastating and had lies, lost and new love, relationships, family, friendship and history all going on in this beautiful atmosphere. It felt like a lovely break away from a rainy Wales!! I loved how the story ended and I would love to read more about the life in this gorgeous Greek village. This would make a lovely series. An absolutely gorgeous book!!

The characters were all unique with their own realistic traits, strengths and weaknesses. It was intriguing to watch Sam, Aaron and Spyro's relationship grow, develop and change throughout the the storyline. I genuinely felt sorry for Sam throughout and felt that certain characters seemed to be very manipulative. It was also intriguing to see how not only Sam, Aaron and Spyro's relationship change throughout the book but also Sam's relationship with Fi, Nick and the girls and Sofia's relationship with Vasillis, I enjoyed how all the community helped each other out and were so friendly with Sam. I found Spyro's character to be very sweet and gentleman. All characters worked perfectly with the storyline and I would love to meet them again and hope to see this made into a series or even a movie!!!

Well done Sue, I will definitely be looking for your books any time I need to be swept off to another country!!!

Overall a perfect light hearted romance that will sweep you off your feet and land you in Greece.

Genres covered in this book include Romance Novel , Humorous Fiction, Contemporary Romance, Humour and Holiday Fiction amongst others.


I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Jenny Colgan, Sophie Kinsella and anyone who needs a holiday!!


257 pages.

This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!

Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.

Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews

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102 reviews1 follower
June 13, 2021
First and foremost, a big thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review.

This is a charming little tale. The book takes you to a magnificent Greece. And the characters are charming and delightful to read.

When the protagonist Samantha, a successful television presenter with a never-ending career, has a catastrophic work party, she decides to visit her sister and family in Greece to get away from all the talk and avoid the lash of people on social media. But her outlook on life changes dramatically when she meets the people and learns about their lives in Greece. It is modest yet in every sense incredibly beautiful.

Just as Sam re-considers her work and her future, she falls into crossroads when she runs into old flame from her high school days, Aaron. Aaron who is also a television presenter, but not a successful one has been nothing but treating her with no respect and meets her solely for his professional advancement. Around the same time, she meets Spyros, a charming, well-mannered, chivalrous, handsome, and sexy neighbour in Greece. They feel an immediate attraction to one other, but doesn't go any farther than being friends.

It takes a while for Sam to realise that Aaron isn't the right guy for her; he never has been and never will be. She is having the most wonderful days of her life with her family. I couldn't help but be envious of her lovely family. Fiona, her sister, and Nick, her brother-in-law, and their beautiful little girls, Polly and Rose were nothing less than absolute sweethearts. My heart melted reading about them. Oh, how I wish I had a beautiful sister, an adorable brother-in-law, and darling nieces like Sam. What a lucky lady! This was a major highlight of the book for me, I guess. I was more drawn to Fi, Nick, Polly, Rose and Spyros than the others in the book.

The only thing I felt less was development of Sam and Spyros relationship. For me, the book finished far too fast. I wish I could have read more of them. And a bit less of Sam and Aaron, who I felt were overused. I truly hope there will be another book. I would love to know more of Sam and Spyros and their new life in Greece. And, of course, her beautiful family of Fi, Nick and the little girls. I cannot get enough of them!

This was an interesting read for me. And you could feel the sun, smell the sea, and lose yourself in those beautiful descriptions. This was a lot of fun for me. I was hooked from the beginning. Even while I wasn't reading, I found myself wondering about all the characters and beautiful Greece, and how I wished I could visit this lovely town someday.

Going Greek is fun, romantic and light-hearted story. A nice, beautiful escape from everyday life. Well, if you're searching for a nice little entertaining and laugh-out-loud read that will transport you to Greece and be charmed by Greek life without moving a muscle, this is the book for you.
Profile Image for Gaele.
4,076 reviews85 followers
July 7, 2021
Sam is a television presenter: a job that she has been focused on since childhood. But with the wrap party over, and meeting a man who piqued her interest, she’s thinking her summer may have more than just relaxation and looking into new opportunities. Until she’s caught by the paps and finds that the man who claimed not to know who she was is married, given her a fake name and is talking to that press.

Nothing to do but dash off to her sister’s house in Rhodes: a sheep farm where Fiona, her twin daughters and husband have made a new life. I’ll be honest – the highlights of this book for me were the moments with family and the kids, and even the sheep – and the descriptions of the countryside, the food and the changes that Sam was forced to make. Now Sam herself wasn’t a particularly engaging character – there was a bit too much ‘I’ve done everything right BUT this” sort of attitude from someone of her age and years in the business, and a bit of that wore thin quickly. But – in Greece she meets the neighbor Spyros – a very Greek, take life as it comes sort of man, and lo and behold her first love, Aaron makes a reappearance.

Yes, I enjoy Sue Roberts’ books and for the most part her characters – but this one just didn’t ring any real bells for me: there was little connection between Sam and either romantic interest, her family was more responsible and responsive to her needs and building her back up after her trauma. And while the romance didn’t really work, it did feel like there were little sprouts of growth and change that Sam could have nurtured a bit better – and given us a more ‘I am woman, hear me roar’ attitude. But overall, this was a solid beach read – not emotionally drawing enough to disrupt the flow, but enjoyable and scenic – and enough to make you want to explore Rhodes for yourself.

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.

Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Profile Image for theliterateleprechaun .
2,445 reviews217 followers
April 23, 2021
From someone who doesn’t enjoy reading romance books, this is a full five-star read! I was suffering the effects of my vaccine and this book was able to make me forget about the aches and pains and whisk me off to Rhodes, Greece.

The first thing I noticed was the beautiful, descriptive writing. I’ve been to Rhodes, but for someone who hasn’t, Roberts will give you enough information to immerse yourself. She’s captured the charm and slower-paced life perfectly.

The characters were outstanding! Roberts has crafted them with irresistible personalities. They are people you’d instantly connect with and want to spend time in their presence. The ‘villain’ is so expertly represented that you’d want to throw your ouzo at him! The children will make you smile because Roberts has captured the simplicity and innocence of their nature. Ahhh! The reclusive old lady next door! I’d love to spend an afternoon with her. The star of the show is Spyros. Did I mention I don’t care for romances? Well, Roberts showed me that a character CAN be described without lust and scenes can be written without salacious behaviour. Furthermore, she renewed my faith in romance because she was able to put the reader in Samantha’s ‘shoes’ and readers could actually feel the excitement about a new love interest. If this book is any indication of her previous works, she’s converted me. I’m off to search out her backlist. High five for Sue Roberts! She's found the perfect recipe for escape reading with a touch of sweet holiday romance for all of us armchair travellers. THANK YOU!.

The plot was even paced and absorbing. A workplace scandal sends Samantha off to her sister and family in Rhodes. She’s eager to relax and enjoy her time in a place where nobody knows her. Just as she takes interest in the local milk distributor, an old flame comes back into her life. Samantha is faced with choices, both in her career, her choice of ‘home’ and in her love life. Roberts explores the influence family has on our decision making as well as the influence social media plays on shaping our life.

You must put this wholesome, dreamy, vacation romance onto your radar come May 28, 2021.

I was gifted this advance copy by Sue Roberts, Bookouture, and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Profile Image for Els .
2,264 reviews53 followers
May 28, 2021
I have never been to Greece, but I recognized the feeling you get when the sun shines every day. Whether it’s there or in any other country where you can bask in the warmth life is so different compared to the rat race in the ‘colder’ countries. Everything is more laid back and why not. Life is worth so much more when you take the time to enjoy the things around you in stead of always working with no or little fun.

It’s hard in the beginning to adapt to that slower rhythm, but you will soon find out it suits you. Somewhere in your mind though you think you belong to your life at home. Where is home exactly? Is it where your house is or rather where you heart is?

Sam is about to find out what it means to her. After all family and good friends are always there whether they are near or far. It’s up to you to do what’s best for you. In this time and day they are only a phone call or a plane ride away.

As a public figure you feel like you always have to watch your step, but does that give people the right to judge you…? Looking back they maybe did you a favor or you would never have gone on this great Greek escape.

I loved this warm and sunny story. It was very well written and I wished I could have escaped too. Looking for something to make the sun shine, you really should pick this book. 5 stars.

Thank you, Sue Roberts and Bookouture.
73 reviews3 followers
May 10, 2021
✍️ One Sentence Synopsis: Escape a toxic situation, grab a dreamboat.

💭 Overall Thoughts: As a summer escape romance read, this is perfect. It’s a cute story where things go awry and the protagonist, Samantha, finds out what will truly make her happy. The book we could all use to get our minds off the world right now for sure. It’s funny and witty, there’s beautiful imagery from the Greek countryside, and an adorable potential book boyfriend for you all in Spyros.

However, it read a little too Hallmark vacation romance for me. Everything was just a little too easy— especially in the subplots happening “back home.” I also wanted to yell at Samantha for being completely oblivious at times.

What I Liked:
👍 It’s a cute, light, fun, escape read— just what I needed after my last two reads.
👍 Spyros is adorably dreamy.
👍 The setting and imagery of the Greek countryside was like a daydream.

What I Didn’t Like:
👎 Samantha, girl, get a grip and stop being oblivious to what’s going on right in front of you.
👎 The subplots— some seemed unnecessary— they also all just happened too easy or were too flat.
👎 Overall just a bit too unrealistic, especially with the timeline.

💞Read this if you liked: Under the Tuscan Sun

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the copy of the book with request for an honest review.
12 reviews
May 5, 2021
This book follows our main character Sam, who lives in London and is kind of a celebrity thanks to her job as a TV presenter on ‘Wake Up Britain’.

After a night of fun, Sam’s life gets turned upside down. Social media starts dragging her name, she loses jobs on other shows, and her position on ‘Wake Up Britain’ is also in question!

As a way to go under the radar and let things settle down, Sam travels to see her sisters family in Rhodes, Greece for the summer. While there, Sam enjoys the quiet life but also reconnects with an old love, and also kindling a new relationship.

I must say, this book isn’t at all what I expected! I figured this would be a steamy romance read, but there wasn’t much smut or romance for that matter!

This book is more relaxing than anything. The world building is amazing! You really feel like you’ve just landed in Greece yourself. The small village setting and characters are really what makes this story great.

I wouldn’t go into this with the expectations that this is going to be a sexy, romance read that gets you all hot and bothered. There are a few romantic gestures, but not that many.
I do feel that the ending was rushed to make the relationship happen, and I feel it could have been done way sooner to give us readers more of the romance aspect we expected.

Overall, I really did enjoy this book, it was just a totally different read than I thought I was picking up. Great for anyone who loves a small town setting, or family relationships.

I will definitely be checking out more of Sue Roberts books after this!
Profile Image for Rachel Gilbey.
3,324 reviews571 followers
December 31, 2021
It has been a while since I was able to read one of this author's books while sitting poolside in the glorious sunshine, which I always feels enhances her writing.

So was delighted to be able to read Going Greek while in Tenerife, and I absolutely devoured it.

I loved every moment spent with Sam, and her family in Rhodes. I loved the twins, and I enjoyed her potential love interests, although one was always a clear winner for me.

This is just entertaining poolside reading that I whizzed through in a few hours, utterly hooked on the descriptions, the food, and one rather special Greek man!

Just what I needed, a sunshine pick me up!

Thank you to Bookouture and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
116 reviews
June 25, 2021
Leisurely and predictable

This book seems to just drag on and on and yet nothing of substance is really happening. If you are looking for reasonably fast paced reading, go elsewhere. If you want a calm story where it’s predictable, this is for you.

There is no spice to this. I have a hard time with the main character. She has a one night stand (only details are that she goes back to his hotel room) with some guy which is ruining her career so she flees to Greece. Within days she just happens to run in to her one love and going on dates. All while she is making eyes at a 3rd guy.

I felt no chemistry with any of the guys. This just kind of trudged along for me.
Profile Image for Divya Khare.
Author 1 book13 followers
May 27, 2021
Going Greek was funny and a heartwarming story about Samantha Southern who is a very famous talkshow host in Britain. After an unfortunate scandal, she decides to go on a holiday in Greece where her elder sister Fiona lives with her family. But it isn't easy. She soon runs into an old flame and also meets this handsome Greek neighbour. I wouldn't say I liked this the moment I started reading it. Took me time to completely devour myself into the book. Overall it was a feel good, light romantic summer read.
Profile Image for Michelle.
265 reviews7 followers
June 24, 2021
An Uplifting Summer Romance

When I started reading Going Greek, I thought, “Oh no, another celebrity themed book!” I almost closed it to relegate it to the pile of books I can’t read, but instead I stuck with it and was soon engulfed in the story. It is a funny and totally, absorbing story of life and love in an idyllic Greek village. My only complaint is it ended far too soon.
Profile Image for Donna Huber.
Author 1 book305 followers
June 3, 2021
A good summery chick-lit/women's fiction story. I didn't really like the main character (she's a bit too whiny for me) so it made it hard to get into the story as it is basically her talking to the reader. I would have liked a bit more showing and less telling. I loved the setting - reminded me of the Durrells in Corfu with the colorful village life. Read my full review at Girl Who Reads
Profile Image for Anna-Marie.
260 reviews3 followers
June 12, 2022
Audiobook 🎧
Decent story. Nice for the summer and tanning. The urge to live in Greece is as strong as ever ☀️
Profile Image for tat.
406 reviews1 follower
January 6, 2023
Is this a 4 star January or something? Maybe I’m just great at picking cute books I loved this
Profile Image for Yvonne (It's All About Books).
2,694 reviews316 followers
September 24, 2024

Finished reading: April 23rd 2021


"It makes me realise that we can never really know the demons some people wrestle with inside their mind."

*** A copy of this book was kindly provided to me by Netgalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review. Thank you! ***


P.S. Find more of my reviews here.
Profile Image for Lyndsey Bookish Nature.
402 reviews43 followers
August 1, 2021
~~~ I received a copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review ~~~

I love the setting of this book and the descriptions of Greece. I had a hard time with Samantha's, narration, however. The Great Greek Escape is written in first person, which takes some getting used to, and quite frankly I'm not very fond of. It reads kind of like a diary, which maybe is appropriate because Samantha is kind of immature for being an adult- which also annoyed me. This is a book of family, love, and overcoming life's obstacles. I think this is a good, light, summer-y read. I might read more in Sue Roberts' Greece series in the future, just because I enjoy the locations.
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