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The Getaway
Sometimes it takes losing everything to find the person you need . . .
Most people travel to Croatia for its endless sunshine, pebbly beaches and crystal clear sea.
Kate goes there to disappear.
She needs to escape from a life that has fallen apart in spectacular and public fashion, and no one on the beautiful island of Hvar knows who she is or what she's running away from.
Until she meets another lonely soul.
Alex is different to any man Kate has ever known, yet the connection between them is undeniable. She soon begins to open up in ways she never has before - not even to herself. But Kate is not the only person in Hvar hiding secrets. And, as she is about to discover, it is always only a matter of time before the truth catches up with you . . .
Most people travel to Croatia for its endless sunshine, pebbly beaches and crystal clear sea.
Kate goes there to disappear.
She needs to escape from a life that has fallen apart in spectacular and public fashion, and no one on the beautiful island of Hvar knows who she is or what she's running away from.
Until she meets another lonely soul.
Alex is different to any man Kate has ever known, yet the connection between them is undeniable. She soon begins to open up in ways she never has before - not even to herself. But Kate is not the only person in Hvar hiding secrets. And, as she is about to discover, it is always only a matter of time before the truth catches up with you . . .
409 pages, Paperback
Published January 1, 2021
102 people are currently reading
565 people want to read
About the author
Isabelle Broom
19 books449 followersIsabelle Broom also writes as Izzy Broom. She is the award-winning author of 13 novels and is published in 14 overseas territories. Having left heat magazine in 2018, where she’d spent over five years as book reviews editor, she began writing full-time alongside continued freelance work. She lives in Suffolk, surrounded by books, family, unruly dogs, and a rooster from the farm next door, which has inexplicably fallen in love with her. Her upcoming novel, The House Of Hidden Letters, is arriving on 12 November in ebook and audio and 26 March in paperback (UK). The book will arrive in the US on March 17.
You can follow Izzy on Instagram/Threads @Isabelle_Broom or find her on Facebook under Isabelle Broom Author.
You can follow Izzy on Instagram/Threads @Isabelle_Broom or find her on Facebook under Isabelle Broom Author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
March 28, 2021
Obvs ; )
Very proud of this one – excited to share Kate and Alex's story with you all.
Very proud of this one – excited to share Kate and Alex's story with you all.
June 13, 2021
I’ve never been to Croatia, but The Getaway certainly took me there. I could feel the warmth of the sun on my back, the sand between my toes & I absolutely wished I could view those sunsets!
After Kate’s life as she knows it falls apart, she decides to go to stay with her brother in Hvar for a while to regain some perspective. Whilst there, she certainly does have a life overhaul, but she cannot run from her problems back home, until she decides to deal with them head on.
The Getaway appealed to that little piece of me that wants to pack a bag when the going gets tough & do a little runner to somewhere where noone knows me. Atmospheric, true to life, & made me want to jump on a plane (even if we can’t right now!). Recommend!
After Kate’s life as she knows it falls apart, she decides to go to stay with her brother in Hvar for a while to regain some perspective. Whilst there, she certainly does have a life overhaul, but she cannot run from her problems back home, until she decides to deal with them head on.
The Getaway appealed to that little piece of me that wants to pack a bag when the going gets tough & do a little runner to somewhere where noone knows me. Atmospheric, true to life, & made me want to jump on a plane (even if we can’t right now!). Recommend!
November 1, 2021
The perfect read for me at the moment; light, easy, fun & refreshing. Slightly cheesy in places but with a good twist & a fun ending. 3.5 x
July 31, 2021
When we first meet Kate life couldn’t be any crueller. It seems as if humiliation and failure are being heaped upon her. I felt embarrassed and uncomfortable for her and even found myself squirming in my chair. At the back of my mind, I was wondering how they got to that place. I liked her straight away and wanted a win to come through for her to boost her spirits.
Her brother Toby is opening up a hostel in Hvar and is behind schedule and when Kate suggests she helps out so that James can see he really does need her, Toby is behind her 100%.
And WOW, Hvar and the Pakleni Islands are fabulous. Isabelle Broom’s settings always totally transport me to another place, another country, but The Getaway beats them all hands down. Beautiful, just beautiful. I can guarantee you will feel like you’re there too.
On Kate’s first day, at Toby’s recommendation, she goes off to explore Jerolim on her own. And what a hoot! There’s a really funny scene that had me chortling (and even now as I’m writing this). Kate is, of course, mortified 🙂 There’s another scene too that had me belly laughing …
Something clicked for me at the end of Part One and tied up something I had been puzzling over.
And I knew something wasn’t quite right but couldn’t think what it was. Of course it all makes sense once you know!
I loved the interior design thread running through the story. That’s another thing Isabelle Broom is good at, the occupations of her characters.
“In the far distance, the large red bulb of the sun was about to plant itself into the bed of night .”
Love this sentence.
When you can’t quite remember something, this is how it feels isn’t it:
“A memory tugged, but it was too quiet; and even as she felt it, it was gone, had slipped back into the misty corners of her subconscious.”
I LOVED Kate realising she is capable and has many strengths and begins to trust herself. I also loved the romance. The friendship. And the depth of feelings.
So much to love about this story!
If you can’t fly away this year, this is the perfect antidote.
The Getaway is the perfect summer read. Highly recommended.
https://www.jerasjamboree.co.uk/book-...
Her brother Toby is opening up a hostel in Hvar and is behind schedule and when Kate suggests she helps out so that James can see he really does need her, Toby is behind her 100%.
And WOW, Hvar and the Pakleni Islands are fabulous. Isabelle Broom’s settings always totally transport me to another place, another country, but The Getaway beats them all hands down. Beautiful, just beautiful. I can guarantee you will feel like you’re there too.
On Kate’s first day, at Toby’s recommendation, she goes off to explore Jerolim on her own. And what a hoot! There’s a really funny scene that had me chortling (and even now as I’m writing this). Kate is, of course, mortified 🙂 There’s another scene too that had me belly laughing …
Something clicked for me at the end of Part One and tied up something I had been puzzling over.
And I knew something wasn’t quite right but couldn’t think what it was. Of course it all makes sense once you know!
I loved the interior design thread running through the story. That’s another thing Isabelle Broom is good at, the occupations of her characters.
“In the far distance, the large red bulb of the sun was about to plant itself into the bed of night .”
Love this sentence.
When you can’t quite remember something, this is how it feels isn’t it:
“A memory tugged, but it was too quiet; and even as she felt it, it was gone, had slipped back into the misty corners of her subconscious.”
I LOVED Kate realising she is capable and has many strengths and begins to trust herself. I also loved the romance. The friendship. And the depth of feelings.
So much to love about this story!
If you can’t fly away this year, this is the perfect antidote.
The Getaway is the perfect summer read. Highly recommended.
https://www.jerasjamboree.co.uk/book-...
June 4, 2021
Ooo this book gives you all the classic features of an Isabelle Broom novel, a slightly broken main character you can relate to, exceptional travel that you can partake in without leaving the pages of a book and the kind of wonderful British humour I love in a book and then adds a mystery element. I didn't know I needed a bit of mystery added to my romcom but boy did I have fun working out the mysterious elements of this beauty!
I adored the Croatian setting of this book, I have never been to Croatia but I could picture the town and the ocean so vividly thanks to this authors brilliant descriptions. I travelled with Kate and enjoyed disappearing with her for a bit. Kate is a complex character and I feel like her situation is a little like the title of the Jon Ronson book 'So You've Been Publicly Shamed' only perhaps a little less drastic than some of those but I really felt for her in her situation at the start of this story. I've had similar things happen to me and so I could really empathize with her. But the whole when one door closes another one opens scenario is never truer here because I love when Kate finds her metaphorical voice and she does so in a way I have never read about before.
I also really loved the relationships in this book, they are also unique compared to anything else I have read. I loved that Kate had this close relationship with her brother and her best friend and those bonds only become closer throughout the novel. I also love that her brother is starting a new adventure with his partner and then there's the complication that is Alex. I loved getting to know him through Kate and trying to work him out. He really is a closed book when it comes to most things and I found him so intriguing I just had to find out more.
This was such a great escapist read. It was wonderful to get to travel somewhere new and meet these warm and welcoming characters. If this is your first Isabelle Broom novel or you're a seasoned reader like me-you're in for a treat!
I adored the Croatian setting of this book, I have never been to Croatia but I could picture the town and the ocean so vividly thanks to this authors brilliant descriptions. I travelled with Kate and enjoyed disappearing with her for a bit. Kate is a complex character and I feel like her situation is a little like the title of the Jon Ronson book 'So You've Been Publicly Shamed' only perhaps a little less drastic than some of those but I really felt for her in her situation at the start of this story. I've had similar things happen to me and so I could really empathize with her. But the whole when one door closes another one opens scenario is never truer here because I love when Kate finds her metaphorical voice and she does so in a way I have never read about before.
I also really loved the relationships in this book, they are also unique compared to anything else I have read. I loved that Kate had this close relationship with her brother and her best friend and those bonds only become closer throughout the novel. I also love that her brother is starting a new adventure with his partner and then there's the complication that is Alex. I loved getting to know him through Kate and trying to work him out. He really is a closed book when it comes to most things and I found him so intriguing I just had to find out more.
This was such a great escapist read. It was wonderful to get to travel somewhere new and meet these warm and welcoming characters. If this is your first Isabelle Broom novel or you're a seasoned reader like me-you're in for a treat!
March 26, 2021
Discover the locations in The Getaway - oh and discover Croatia and its islands!
What a wonderful way to discover Croatia. It’s not a country that is often first choice on the tourist trail but I think that will change after this book. Isabelle Broom has created such a wonderful travel experience in this novel that you will want to go yourself for real.
The story is a great one. Girl goes to escape a breakup but ends up getting entangled in the place she's escaped to. That's just the start of the story as there are some very fine twists and heartfelt emotions in this story. The ending - aah! Makes you realise we never know what goes on in a person's mind. We all carry luggage so to speak. Isabelle you're making me an emotional wreck!
Most of the novel is set in Hvar which is the main town and tourist attraction but there’s plenty of sailing and exploring the archipelago by boat! A boat with a rather nice man it has to be said…..
Kate goes there to escape her own life but meets someone who is renovating a hotel and boat. She joins him on several visits to the islands, explores on her own and even manages to befriend a stray cat. You really get to see the culture, landscape in this novel. Plus, there’s plenty of food and drink references to enjoy too.
Isabelle conjures up the magic and charm of Croatia, the blue water, the cobbled streets, the wonderful wildlife and more. Croatia is a major character in this novel!
February 23, 2023
Mi-a plăcut mult povestea asta. Jur că nu aș fi putut să aleg mai bine! Escapada este ca prăjitura aia dulce, plină de frișcă și de sirop, de care ai nevoie din când în când. Te îndulcește, îți copleșește simțurile și te face să uiți de probleme și de amar. Frumusețea poveștilor de dragoste este caleidoscopică, din punctul meu de vedere.
Dacă ești îndrăgostit, te ajută să înțelegi și să îți amintești de proprii fluturi din stomac. Dacă suferi, poveștile astea funcționează ca un catharsis. Te transformă, te ajută și te alină. Te simți acasă deși nu cunoști personajele, te simți înțeles și confortabil. Nu mai ești singur într-o mare de dragoste. Suferința pare mai ușor de digerat și începuturile își arată timid drumurile noi.
„Însă asta era problema cu familia – era ușor să îi iei de buni; să presupui că aveau să te iubească și să te susțină necondiționat cât timp erau în viață."
https://ancasicartile.ro/escapada-isa...
Dacă ești îndrăgostit, te ajută să înțelegi și să îți amintești de proprii fluturi din stomac. Dacă suferi, poveștile astea funcționează ca un catharsis. Te transformă, te ajută și te alină. Te simți acasă deși nu cunoști personajele, te simți înțeles și confortabil. Nu mai ești singur într-o mare de dragoste. Suferința pare mai ușor de digerat și începuturile își arată timid drumurile noi.
„Însă asta era problema cu familia – era ușor să îi iei de buni; să presupui că aveau să te iubească și să te susțină necondiționat cât timp erau în viață."
https://ancasicartile.ro/escapada-isa...
May 31, 2021
Kate’s life is a mess.
It’s no exaggeration to say I inhaled The Getaway greedily, putting life on hold until I had savoured every word. I adored it and could simply not tear myself away. The Getaway has everything for the most wonderful immersive, escapist read. Certainly it fits its genre to perfection and I was expecting romance and a positive resolution, but Isabelle Broom writes with such grace and beauty that there is an added dimension of enjoyment that is so satisfying. Her descriptions of places are perfect. Having been to Hvar I recognised some of the settings because they are so vividly and accurately described. Reading The Getaway is a true feast for the senses with everything from the sound of cicadas, to the sight of salt crystals on eyelashes, so that it feels like being plunged into the most idyllic world.
Aside from the accurate and evocative descriptions, however, there are wonderful, rounded characters who garner strong reactions in the reader. With a relatively small cast, I felt I got to know the people of The Getaway intimately, especially Kate and Alex, to the extent that their experiences, emotions and actions felt as convincing to me as if they were my own. I can’t imagine any reader not recognising at least one of Kate’s traits, desires or hurts and empathising with them. As an aside, I loved too the fact that she wears glasses. So few heroines are presented this way so that she felt all the more tangible to me.
As might be expected, from Isabelle Broom, relationships form the backbone of the plot, with familial, romantic and business partnerships presented fully. I adored watching the relationship between Kate and Alex unfold because not only was it romantic, it felt utterly believable. At one point I thought I was going to have to climb into The Getaway and perform a somewhat unpleasant physical action upon James!
However, wonderful settings, fabulous, entertaining, romantic plot and vivid characters aside, The Getaway is so much more. It’s difficult to say much about themes without spoiling the story, but The Getaway illustrates how we are affected by others, how our lives are what we make of them, how we cannot expect others to define us and how we shouldn’t just accept it when they do. Isabelle Broom explores identity, secrets, self-confidence and mental health in a subtle, clever and sensitively constructed manner so that not only did I want to hold and comfort her characters, I felt the need to give the author a hug too. The Getaway thrums with humanity and understanding in a manner I found extremely affecting.
I’ve thought hard about how to sum up The Getaway but it is, quite simply, gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous. I loved The Getaway unreservedly and it’s one of my favourite reads this year. Don’t miss it.
It’s no exaggeration to say I inhaled The Getaway greedily, putting life on hold until I had savoured every word. I adored it and could simply not tear myself away. The Getaway has everything for the most wonderful immersive, escapist read. Certainly it fits its genre to perfection and I was expecting romance and a positive resolution, but Isabelle Broom writes with such grace and beauty that there is an added dimension of enjoyment that is so satisfying. Her descriptions of places are perfect. Having been to Hvar I recognised some of the settings because they are so vividly and accurately described. Reading The Getaway is a true feast for the senses with everything from the sound of cicadas, to the sight of salt crystals on eyelashes, so that it feels like being plunged into the most idyllic world.
Aside from the accurate and evocative descriptions, however, there are wonderful, rounded characters who garner strong reactions in the reader. With a relatively small cast, I felt I got to know the people of The Getaway intimately, especially Kate and Alex, to the extent that their experiences, emotions and actions felt as convincing to me as if they were my own. I can’t imagine any reader not recognising at least one of Kate’s traits, desires or hurts and empathising with them. As an aside, I loved too the fact that she wears glasses. So few heroines are presented this way so that she felt all the more tangible to me.
As might be expected, from Isabelle Broom, relationships form the backbone of the plot, with familial, romantic and business partnerships presented fully. I adored watching the relationship between Kate and Alex unfold because not only was it romantic, it felt utterly believable. At one point I thought I was going to have to climb into The Getaway and perform a somewhat unpleasant physical action upon James!
However, wonderful settings, fabulous, entertaining, romantic plot and vivid characters aside, The Getaway is so much more. It’s difficult to say much about themes without spoiling the story, but The Getaway illustrates how we are affected by others, how our lives are what we make of them, how we cannot expect others to define us and how we shouldn’t just accept it when they do. Isabelle Broom explores identity, secrets, self-confidence and mental health in a subtle, clever and sensitively constructed manner so that not only did I want to hold and comfort her characters, I felt the need to give the author a hug too. The Getaway thrums with humanity and understanding in a manner I found extremely affecting.
I’ve thought hard about how to sum up The Getaway but it is, quite simply, gorgeous, gorgeous, gorgeous. I loved The Getaway unreservedly and it’s one of my favourite reads this year. Don’t miss it.
April 4, 2021
Kate goes to Hvar in Croatia to 'Getway' from an embarrassing situation.
There she finds herself again and finds a new found joy in upcycling and interior design.
Wow this truly was a magical read I devoured this beauty in less than 24 hours.
This makes you realise that you can be bold be brave and never let anything stand in your way of what you want to achieve in life.
Alex was a total joy and just a go with the flow guy and that opposites attract.
If you need a perfect escapism read then this is for you!
A pleasure to read and review
There she finds herself again and finds a new found joy in upcycling and interior design.
Wow this truly was a magical read I devoured this beauty in less than 24 hours.
This makes you realise that you can be bold be brave and never let anything stand in your way of what you want to achieve in life.
Alex was a total joy and just a go with the flow guy and that opposites attract.
If you need a perfect escapism read then this is for you!
A pleasure to read and review
June 10, 2021
I would firstly like to say a big thank you to the author, who very kindly sent me a paperback copy of her book, in return for an honest review.
Kate decides to travel to Croatia to try and forget things, to escape because no-one on the island knows her she can just disappear.
But then she comes across Alex, another lonely soul and she soon begins to open up to him.
I loved this book from beginning to end and I devoured the whole book in a couple of sittings.
This book was just what I needed to read at the moment and was the perfect escapist read and I loved it...
Kate decides to travel to Croatia to try and forget things, to escape because no-one on the island knows her she can just disappear.
But then she comes across Alex, another lonely soul and she soon begins to open up to him.
I loved this book from beginning to end and I devoured the whole book in a couple of sittings.
This book was just what I needed to read at the moment and was the perfect escapist read and I loved it...
June 4, 2021
As always an emotional read from Isabelle Broom. I loved Kate from the very start - her bravery, her naivety and her trust in people made her so very relatable. Her escape to Croatia seemed like the perfect plan, the idyllic setting and wonderful characters helped her along her brave journey of self discovery. Full of twists and emotions, I laughed and cried along with Kate til the very end.
May 11, 2021
I’d heard so many good thinks about The Getaway, the new novel form Isabelle Broom. It’s set in beautiful Croatia and although I’ve never visited there before it’s certainly whetted my appetite to explore there.
It’s Kate’s thirtieth birthday party and something goes wrong. Something of monumental proportions. Kate needs to get away so disappears to Croatia. Surely endless blue skies and the gorgeous sea will help her take stock of her life. No one on the island of Hvar knows her or why she’s there. Until she meets Alex. He’s another lonely soul yet Kate feels instantly drawn to him.
This book is beautifully written and certainly takes you through all of the emotions. Kate is such a lovely character and the depth of description about the island, food and scenery almost transports you directly there.
A fabulous five star read. Thank you to NetGalley, Hodder and Stoughton and the author for the chance to review.
It’s Kate’s thirtieth birthday party and something goes wrong. Something of monumental proportions. Kate needs to get away so disappears to Croatia. Surely endless blue skies and the gorgeous sea will help her take stock of her life. No one on the island of Hvar knows her or why she’s there. Until she meets Alex. He’s another lonely soul yet Kate feels instantly drawn to him.
This book is beautifully written and certainly takes you through all of the emotions. Kate is such a lovely character and the depth of description about the island, food and scenery almost transports you directly there.
A fabulous five star read. Thank you to NetGalley, Hodder and Stoughton and the author for the chance to review.
May 16, 2021
The Getaway by Isabelle Broom is a nice gentle read that includes lots of interesting info about Croatia. It also highlights the way people let their phones rule their life and the damaging effects of social media.
It's well written, easy to follow and has a hint of an underlying back story that keeps you wondering. I didn't guess the ending either!
It's well written, easy to follow and has a hint of an underlying back story that keeps you wondering. I didn't guess the ending either!
May 4, 2021
Reading ‘The Getaway’ is a one-way ticket to sunshine and romance, the story of two people finding each other and – in doing so – learning how to live. Uplifting, funny and full of heart, Kate and Alex’s story is as addictive as sunset cocktails, full of characters you want to meet and settings that make you want to jump on the next plane to Croatia. It is compelling, beautiful and wholeheartedly romantic. I loved it.
June 9, 2021
At her 30th birthday party Kate decides to take the bull by the horns and pop the question to her long term boyfriend James, but when silence surrounds her proposal she realises she’s made a massive mistake. Overnight, the video of her popping the question has gone viral and she’s an internet hit for all the wrong reasons. So distraught Kate hops on a plane to getaway from the embarrassing situation she’s found herself in.
Seeking solace in Croatia with her brother Toby and his husband Fillipo who are renovating a hostel, Kate discovers a hidden talent for interior design. Working alongside dreadlocked, bearded handyman Alex, Kate discovers that his laid back attitude to life is not only refreshing but is also catching!
Kate was a lovely character, but felt so vulnerable that you just wanted to scoop her in your arms and hug her – I was so glad that she had a good friend in Robyn who had her back and looked after her. James on the other side was a real pantomime villain and every time his name appeared on a page, I just wanted to boo him!!
The wonderful thing about this book, and I think the thing that made it for me was the setting…Croatia. I found myself constantly googling walks that Kate took so I could see where she was, and I’m ashamed to say that I never knew that it was such a beautiful country, with so many islands. Isabelle describes the winding streets and the stunning views so well that you actually feel like you’re there. After this book, you will definitely put Croatia on your bucket list.
Seeking solace in Croatia with her brother Toby and his husband Fillipo who are renovating a hostel, Kate discovers a hidden talent for interior design. Working alongside dreadlocked, bearded handyman Alex, Kate discovers that his laid back attitude to life is not only refreshing but is also catching!
Kate was a lovely character, but felt so vulnerable that you just wanted to scoop her in your arms and hug her – I was so glad that she had a good friend in Robyn who had her back and looked after her. James on the other side was a real pantomime villain and every time his name appeared on a page, I just wanted to boo him!!
The wonderful thing about this book, and I think the thing that made it for me was the setting…Croatia. I found myself constantly googling walks that Kate took so I could see where she was, and I’m ashamed to say that I never knew that it was such a beautiful country, with so many islands. Isabelle describes the winding streets and the stunning views so well that you actually feel like you’re there. After this book, you will definitely put Croatia on your bucket list.
Read
April 13, 2021I loved this evocative, emotional, and escapist read. It lifted my soul and had me in tears at the end.
May 27, 2022
Prima boek maar nu wil ik weer naar Kroatië en daar heb ik geen geld voor
June 24, 2024
A truly lovely 5 star read . Isabelle Broom has written such well rounded and nearly all likeable characters . The minute the book plot began in Croatia , it became a relaxed and enjoyable a read as you see Kate became a much freer person after escaping from her troubles with her ex-partner James.
I really like Toby as a character , a brother supportive but also infuriating to the point he had me laughing out loud. I wish Filippo had been a bigger character and not a background character as he seemed lovely on the page .
Robyn was the fabulous friend, always there with loyalty and kindness and also a naughty influence, a character you can't help but like immensely . Whereas the ex James , I disliked as I had worked out what he had done before it was revealed- his return to Kate worked well as did the revelation that happened .
But for me the best character is Alex , dark , brooding yet also considerate with a vulnerability that had me wanting to hug him especially when the truth was exposed . He was a free but troubled soul who deserved happiness and I'm glad he got it!
The setting of Croatia was perfect , wonderfully described and compared to the restrictive time in England for Kate , it was the perfect place for her to blossom.
Isabelle Broom thank you for such a delightful read .
I really like Toby as a character , a brother supportive but also infuriating to the point he had me laughing out loud. I wish Filippo had been a bigger character and not a background character as he seemed lovely on the page .
Robyn was the fabulous friend, always there with loyalty and kindness and also a naughty influence, a character you can't help but like immensely . Whereas the ex James , I disliked as I had worked out what he had done before it was revealed- his return to Kate worked well as did the revelation that happened .
But for me the best character is Alex , dark , brooding yet also considerate with a vulnerability that had me wanting to hug him especially when the truth was exposed . He was a free but troubled soul who deserved happiness and I'm glad he got it!
The setting of Croatia was perfect , wonderfully described and compared to the restrictive time in England for Kate , it was the perfect place for her to blossom.
Isabelle Broom thank you for such a delightful read .
July 2, 2021
Wow. Isabelle, yet again my heart soared reading this. Now all I need is covid to do one and I to go to Croatia.
Highly recommended
Highly recommended
September 26, 2023
3-3,5 stele.
September 7, 2022
Sommerromane über eines der Lieblings-Urlaubsziele der Österreicher sind eher selten. Der Kroatien Roman von Julie Caplin aus ihrer "Romantic Escape Reihe" wurde ja vom Rowohlt Verlag nicht ins Deutsche übersetzt, was ich bis heute nicht verstehen kann.
Mit "Die Insel der Herzen" von Isabella Broom durfte ich endlich auch buchtechnische nach Kroatien auf die Insel Hvar reisen.
Davor sind wir aber noch kurz in Großbritannien, wo Kate gerade ihren 30. Geburtstag feiert. Sie möchte ihrem Verlobten James bei ihrer Geburtstagfeier einen Heiratsantrag machen, der jedoch gewaltig schief geht. Es folgt die Trennung - doch es kommt noch schlimmer! Ein Gast hat das Spektakel mitgefilmt und kurze Zeit später wird der Film zum Quotenhit im Internet und Kate zum Gespött. Sie verlässt daraufhin tief gekränkt das Land und versteckt sich bei ihrem Bruder Toby, der auf der Insel Hvar mit seinem Partner Fillipo lebt und demnächst ein Gästehaus eröffnen möchte. Kate platzt mitten in die Renovierungsarbeiten und wird durch die handwerkliche Arbeit etwas abgelenkt. Außerdem findet sie Gefallen am Dekorieren. Eine große Hilfe ist auch Alex, Tischler und Freund von James, der auf einem Boot vor der Insel lebt. Der junge Mann mit Dreadlocks und Vollbart ist so gar nicht Kates Typ, aber ein sehr sympathischer Zeitgenosse. Er hört ihr zu und nimmt sie ernst. Kate vertraut ihm ihre wahren Sorgen und den Grund der Trennung von James an. Alex selbst ist ebenfalls sehr geheimnisvoll und zurückhaltend. Während sich die Beiden immer mehr anfreunden, hofft Kate indessen immer noch darauf, dass James sie vermisst....
Nach dem turbulenten Start beginnt die Handlung bald stark abzuflachen. Wir begleiten Kate nach Kroatien und lernen mit ihr die Gegend kennen. Wandern, Schwimmen und Bootsausflüge stehen auf dem Programm und die Handlung schreitet kaum voran. Dafür sind die bildhaften Beschreibungen der Landschaft wirklich atemberaubend. Da ich selbst schon in Kroatien Urlaub gemacht habe, konnte ich mir alles noch viel lebendiger vorstellen.
Kate tat mir zu Beginn richtig leid, denn ihr wurde wirklich übel mitgespielt. Doch mit der Zeit begann sie mich wirklich zu nerven. Sie wollte nicht akzeptieren, dass James ihr den Laufpass gegeben hat und versinkt immer wieder in Selbstmitleid. Das Gejammere wurde mit der Zeit echt zu viel. Erst als Kate Fotos ihrer Deko-Ideen auf Instagram postet und sie unerwartet viele positive Rückmeldungen erhält, findet sie aus ihrem Selbstmitleid heraus. Sie erhält sogar weitere Angebote für Renovierungen und überlegt, ob dies ihr zukünftiger beruflicher Weg sein könnte.
Auch Alex hat allen Grund sich hinter seiner Haarpracht auf seinem Kopf zu verstecken. Er versucht seine wahre Identität zu verschleiern und scheint vor etwas oder jemand auf der Flucht zu sein.
Die meiste Zeit macht es Spaß mit Kate die Insel zu erkunden und ihre Verwandlung mitzuerleben. Die Geschichte liest sich leicht und flüssig, auch wenn die Hauptfigur zu Beginn ziemlich nervig ist. Doch es gibt auch einige Längen und die Handlungs plätschert einfach nur so vor sich hin.
Nicht gefallen hat mir, dass die Autorin das wichtigste Thema warum James Kate verlassen hat, nur streift. Es ist schwerwiegend und wird von Isabelle Broom viel zu oberflächlich behandelt.
Fazit:
Ein netter und unterhaltsamer Sommerroman, der einige Klischees bedient und Längen hat, jedoch sehr schöne Landschaftsbeschreibungen bietet. Perfekt zum Wegträumen, wenn man selbst nicht in den Urlaub fahren kann. Die ernsteren Themen wurden hingegen von der Autorin nur angeschnitten und für mich zu oberflächlich behandelt, auch wenn es ein sommerlicher Wohlfühlroman sein soll.
Mit "Die Insel der Herzen" von Isabella Broom durfte ich endlich auch buchtechnische nach Kroatien auf die Insel Hvar reisen.
Davor sind wir aber noch kurz in Großbritannien, wo Kate gerade ihren 30. Geburtstag feiert. Sie möchte ihrem Verlobten James bei ihrer Geburtstagfeier einen Heiratsantrag machen, der jedoch gewaltig schief geht. Es folgt die Trennung - doch es kommt noch schlimmer! Ein Gast hat das Spektakel mitgefilmt und kurze Zeit später wird der Film zum Quotenhit im Internet und Kate zum Gespött. Sie verlässt daraufhin tief gekränkt das Land und versteckt sich bei ihrem Bruder Toby, der auf der Insel Hvar mit seinem Partner Fillipo lebt und demnächst ein Gästehaus eröffnen möchte. Kate platzt mitten in die Renovierungsarbeiten und wird durch die handwerkliche Arbeit etwas abgelenkt. Außerdem findet sie Gefallen am Dekorieren. Eine große Hilfe ist auch Alex, Tischler und Freund von James, der auf einem Boot vor der Insel lebt. Der junge Mann mit Dreadlocks und Vollbart ist so gar nicht Kates Typ, aber ein sehr sympathischer Zeitgenosse. Er hört ihr zu und nimmt sie ernst. Kate vertraut ihm ihre wahren Sorgen und den Grund der Trennung von James an. Alex selbst ist ebenfalls sehr geheimnisvoll und zurückhaltend. Während sich die Beiden immer mehr anfreunden, hofft Kate indessen immer noch darauf, dass James sie vermisst....
Nach dem turbulenten Start beginnt die Handlung bald stark abzuflachen. Wir begleiten Kate nach Kroatien und lernen mit ihr die Gegend kennen. Wandern, Schwimmen und Bootsausflüge stehen auf dem Programm und die Handlung schreitet kaum voran. Dafür sind die bildhaften Beschreibungen der Landschaft wirklich atemberaubend. Da ich selbst schon in Kroatien Urlaub gemacht habe, konnte ich mir alles noch viel lebendiger vorstellen.
Kate tat mir zu Beginn richtig leid, denn ihr wurde wirklich übel mitgespielt. Doch mit der Zeit begann sie mich wirklich zu nerven. Sie wollte nicht akzeptieren, dass James ihr den Laufpass gegeben hat und versinkt immer wieder in Selbstmitleid. Das Gejammere wurde mit der Zeit echt zu viel. Erst als Kate Fotos ihrer Deko-Ideen auf Instagram postet und sie unerwartet viele positive Rückmeldungen erhält, findet sie aus ihrem Selbstmitleid heraus. Sie erhält sogar weitere Angebote für Renovierungen und überlegt, ob dies ihr zukünftiger beruflicher Weg sein könnte.
Auch Alex hat allen Grund sich hinter seiner Haarpracht auf seinem Kopf zu verstecken. Er versucht seine wahre Identität zu verschleiern und scheint vor etwas oder jemand auf der Flucht zu sein.
Die meiste Zeit macht es Spaß mit Kate die Insel zu erkunden und ihre Verwandlung mitzuerleben. Die Geschichte liest sich leicht und flüssig, auch wenn die Hauptfigur zu Beginn ziemlich nervig ist. Doch es gibt auch einige Längen und die Handlungs plätschert einfach nur so vor sich hin.
Nicht gefallen hat mir, dass die Autorin das wichtigste Thema warum James Kate verlassen hat, nur streift. Es ist schwerwiegend und wird von Isabelle Broom viel zu oberflächlich behandelt.
Fazit:
Ein netter und unterhaltsamer Sommerroman, der einige Klischees bedient und Längen hat, jedoch sehr schöne Landschaftsbeschreibungen bietet. Perfekt zum Wegträumen, wenn man selbst nicht in den Urlaub fahren kann. Die ernsteren Themen wurden hingegen von der Autorin nur angeschnitten und für mich zu oberflächlich behandelt, auch wenn es ein sommerlicher Wohlfühlroman sein soll.
June 17, 2021
No wonder Kate wants to get away. She’s lost yet another job and been public humiliated at her 30th birthday party where a surprise proposal doesn’t quite go to plan. To make matters worse, a video of the event goes viral, and she ends up with no boyfriend, no job and no home. I’d want to get away too!
Isabelle Broom effortlessly transports the reader to beautiful Croatia. I’ve never been. I now want to go. If that gorgeous cover wasn’t enough to tempt me, Isabelle Broome’s wonderfully evocative writing certainly does! Kate’s brother Toby and his husband Filippo live in Hvar and she helps them get their hostel ready for opening, discovering a flair for interior design as she does.
Kate feels such a failure at the beginning of this book. This add to the intrigue as you read. Why does she feel that she can never do anything right? What is the secret that Kate told James that she hopes he’ll never reveal? What made James change his mind about their seemingly perfect relationship?
After the humiliation of the #wannabewife video and seeing how hurt and small Kate felt, it was lovely to read about her learning to love herself and find her passion in life. That passion didn’t just involve design but also a certain tradesman called Alex. He was also a bit of a man of mystery, living off radar on his boat in Croatia. I’m not going to tell you much about Alex as that would spoil the story but I will say I think I was a little bit in love with him myself!
Is this my new favourite Isabelle Broom novel? It could well be. I highly recommend that with exotic getaways looking unlikely again this summer for most of us, you treat yourself to a copy of The Getaway. It’s gorgeously romantic, beautifully written, full of passion and intrigue and the perfect escapist read for summer.
Isabelle Broom effortlessly transports the reader to beautiful Croatia. I’ve never been. I now want to go. If that gorgeous cover wasn’t enough to tempt me, Isabelle Broome’s wonderfully evocative writing certainly does! Kate’s brother Toby and his husband Filippo live in Hvar and she helps them get their hostel ready for opening, discovering a flair for interior design as she does.
Kate feels such a failure at the beginning of this book. This add to the intrigue as you read. Why does she feel that she can never do anything right? What is the secret that Kate told James that she hopes he’ll never reveal? What made James change his mind about their seemingly perfect relationship?
After the humiliation of the #wannabewife video and seeing how hurt and small Kate felt, it was lovely to read about her learning to love herself and find her passion in life. That passion didn’t just involve design but also a certain tradesman called Alex. He was also a bit of a man of mystery, living off radar on his boat in Croatia. I’m not going to tell you much about Alex as that would spoil the story but I will say I think I was a little bit in love with him myself!
Is this my new favourite Isabelle Broom novel? It could well be. I highly recommend that with exotic getaways looking unlikely again this summer for most of us, you treat yourself to a copy of The Getaway. It’s gorgeously romantic, beautifully written, full of passion and intrigue and the perfect escapist read for summer.
July 22, 2021
For some reason I found the 1st half of this book difficult to get into, however, I absolutely devoured the 2nd half! Perfect heatwave reading.
April 27, 2022
Another gorgeous book by the author about identity and finding your own strength. The characters are so lovable and location so beautifully described.
June 18, 2021
The Getaway, A holiday romance for 2021 - perfect summer escapism!, Isabelle Broom
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Romance
Genre: Romance, women's fiction ( adult)
Bah humbug, women's romance again. I hate reading that in categories, so outdated.
|Anyway, this was fun. Poor deluded Kate, after a disastrous 30th birthday she's going through a break up of epic proportions. She's been with her ex for 8 years and the end blindsided her. Her friends, parents don't know how to help get her out of the mire she's in, depressed, in tears. She'd just lost her job too, not that it was something she liked but it was a job. Big brother Toby comes to the rescue, takes her off to Croatia to help him and his husband Filippo with the new hostel, and they seriously need that help!
I loved Toby and Filippo, loved the island of Hvar and the people. Kate finds that she's not the disaster she thought, she does have talent and discovers a field she enjoys and is good at. I loved her personal growth, her build up of self belief, the way she was able to look back and see she wasn't the person her ex portrayed.
Of course she meets someone new. The gorgeous Alex, who's not without his own problems. I did find the coincidence of their meeting and what she knew a tiny bit hard to believe....but its book-land! I also found that once there she was able to let go of the past 8 years with her ex pretty quickly. I didn't want her to wallow but I did feel she moved on faster than I expected. Maybe that's just book timing, its set over a short period but for me I was a little surprised.
There's fabulous descriptions of life on the island, great characters, and lots of twists in the story, some of which had me cheering and yet tearful too. I enjoyed reading this story, it didn't keep me gripped to the page, I did read over a few periods, but that's me not the book.
Stars: Three, great holiday read, sweet romance, and great portrayal of personal growth
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers
Review from Jeannie Zelos book reviews
Romance
Genre: Romance, women's fiction ( adult)
Bah humbug, women's romance again. I hate reading that in categories, so outdated.
|Anyway, this was fun. Poor deluded Kate, after a disastrous 30th birthday she's going through a break up of epic proportions. She's been with her ex for 8 years and the end blindsided her. Her friends, parents don't know how to help get her out of the mire she's in, depressed, in tears. She'd just lost her job too, not that it was something she liked but it was a job. Big brother Toby comes to the rescue, takes her off to Croatia to help him and his husband Filippo with the new hostel, and they seriously need that help!
I loved Toby and Filippo, loved the island of Hvar and the people. Kate finds that she's not the disaster she thought, she does have talent and discovers a field she enjoys and is good at. I loved her personal growth, her build up of self belief, the way she was able to look back and see she wasn't the person her ex portrayed.
Of course she meets someone new. The gorgeous Alex, who's not without his own problems. I did find the coincidence of their meeting and what she knew a tiny bit hard to believe....but its book-land! I also found that once there she was able to let go of the past 8 years with her ex pretty quickly. I didn't want her to wallow but I did feel she moved on faster than I expected. Maybe that's just book timing, its set over a short period but for me I was a little surprised.
There's fabulous descriptions of life on the island, great characters, and lots of twists in the story, some of which had me cheering and yet tearful too. I enjoyed reading this story, it didn't keep me gripped to the page, I did read over a few periods, but that's me not the book.
Stars: Three, great holiday read, sweet romance, and great portrayal of personal growth
ARC supplied by Netgalley and publishers
June 10, 2021
When Kate’s hopes and dreams for a happy future crumble before her eyes, she is inspired by a magazine article, to run away. The very nature of the turning point in her life is devastating and it’s easy to understand her need to bolt. With only her immediate family and closest of friends, knowing her whereabouts, Kate can begin to recover from the fallout of her life.
I have read one other book by Isabelle Broom, Hello Again, this book stayed with me, but The Getaway had a far greater impact. Although this is a romantic tale, it became immediately obvious that this was a very special book. It examines some of the intricacies of human relationships as it delves deep under the covers of self-doubt, depression broken hearts.
As The Getaway explores these deeper elements, it maintains a light-heartedness that prevents the story from feeling overwhelming. In fact, I found the whole experience to be both cathartic and refreshing. This is, when all is said and done, a gentle love story which weaves a magical comfort blanket as the narrative dips into deeper themes.
Kate is damaged by the heartache of a failed relationship, yet she remains steadfast in her hope that all will be well in the end. Her friendship with free-spirited Alex initially seems unlikely, but they soon find a rhythm that suits their current situations.
I’m reading back and realise that I’m waxing lyrical about this book, but it is still resonating with me, hours after reading the final chapters. Mental Health figures strongly in this story, but it doesn’t occupy the main narrative; that is held by feelings of optimism and opportunities.
I am now yearning to visit Croatia and see some of the gorgeous scenery which is beautifully described. Isabelle Broom has a passion for travel and that is evident within these pages.
I have read one other book by Isabelle Broom, Hello Again, this book stayed with me, but The Getaway had a far greater impact. Although this is a romantic tale, it became immediately obvious that this was a very special book. It examines some of the intricacies of human relationships as it delves deep under the covers of self-doubt, depression broken hearts.
As The Getaway explores these deeper elements, it maintains a light-heartedness that prevents the story from feeling overwhelming. In fact, I found the whole experience to be both cathartic and refreshing. This is, when all is said and done, a gentle love story which weaves a magical comfort blanket as the narrative dips into deeper themes.
Kate is damaged by the heartache of a failed relationship, yet she remains steadfast in her hope that all will be well in the end. Her friendship with free-spirited Alex initially seems unlikely, but they soon find a rhythm that suits their current situations.
I’m reading back and realise that I’m waxing lyrical about this book, but it is still resonating with me, hours after reading the final chapters. Mental Health figures strongly in this story, but it doesn’t occupy the main narrative; that is held by feelings of optimism and opportunities.
I am now yearning to visit Croatia and see some of the gorgeous scenery which is beautifully described. Isabelle Broom has a passion for travel and that is evident within these pages.
April 17, 2023
*I received a free ARC of this book, with thanks to the author and publisher. The decision to review and my opinions are my own.*
Fluffy and romantic, The Getaway follows main character Kate as she flees to Croatia after her life falls apart.
There is some exploration of depression at the start of the story, as Kate withdraws into herself after losing her job and relationship and having to move back in with her parents. This is handled… a little differently to other fictional depictions I have read, but still sensitively. But the real story starts when she decides to win her ex back by moving to Croatia to help her brother and his partner with their new hotel venture – ah, the logic of the freshly broken-hearted!
There are the usual romantic stumbling blocks to overcome when Kate meets Alex, including low self-esteem issues on both their parts and a lack of clear communication leading to misunderstandings and hurt feelings. Most of the other characters are pretty peripheral to the story; Kate and co mainly stick to their little group of ex-pats, so we don’t really see much of the local characters other than as background.
The background in general is stunning, though, with a strong sense of setting, beautiful scenery and delicious-sounding food. This book could definitely ‘sell’ a Croatian getaway to any readers!
With summer holidays approaching, this is a lovely light beach read about finding your happy-ever-after in a new location.
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
Fluffy and romantic, The Getaway follows main character Kate as she flees to Croatia after her life falls apart.
There is some exploration of depression at the start of the story, as Kate withdraws into herself after losing her job and relationship and having to move back in with her parents. This is handled… a little differently to other fictional depictions I have read, but still sensitively. But the real story starts when she decides to win her ex back by moving to Croatia to help her brother and his partner with their new hotel venture – ah, the logic of the freshly broken-hearted!
There are the usual romantic stumbling blocks to overcome when Kate meets Alex, including low self-esteem issues on both their parts and a lack of clear communication leading to misunderstandings and hurt feelings. Most of the other characters are pretty peripheral to the story; Kate and co mainly stick to their little group of ex-pats, so we don’t really see much of the local characters other than as background.
The background in general is stunning, though, with a strong sense of setting, beautiful scenery and delicious-sounding food. This book could definitely ‘sell’ a Croatian getaway to any readers!
With summer holidays approaching, this is a lovely light beach read about finding your happy-ever-after in a new location.
Review by Steph Warren of Bookshine and Readbows blog
https://bookshineandreadbows.wordpres...
June 11, 2021
Gorgeous story.
Kate proposes to her boyfriend James at a party, however his horrified reaction and the subsequent posting on the internet of the event has her fleeing the country in shame and embarrassment. She goes to Croatia to where her brother Toby and his husband are renovating a building to turn it into hostel accommodation and she discovers with the help of mysterious handyman Alex that she has a talent for interior design.
What a lovely story this is. Kate is a great character who you want to cheer her on as she grows in confidence. The friendship with free spirit Alex and the secrecy about his past adds an interest to the story - you can see where this friendship is going, but it’s nice to see an attraction grow for an unconventional love interest.
Croatia sounds beautiful and this is now on my list of places I’d like to visit one day.
Many thanks to Hodder & Stoughton and Netgalley for providing me with an arc of this book.this is my unpaid, unbiased review.
Kate proposes to her boyfriend James at a party, however his horrified reaction and the subsequent posting on the internet of the event has her fleeing the country in shame and embarrassment. She goes to Croatia to where her brother Toby and his husband are renovating a building to turn it into hostel accommodation and she discovers with the help of mysterious handyman Alex that she has a talent for interior design.
What a lovely story this is. Kate is a great character who you want to cheer her on as she grows in confidence. The friendship with free spirit Alex and the secrecy about his past adds an interest to the story - you can see where this friendship is going, but it’s nice to see an attraction grow for an unconventional love interest.
Croatia sounds beautiful and this is now on my list of places I’d like to visit one day.
Many thanks to Hodder & Stoughton and Netgalley for providing me with an arc of this book.this is my unpaid, unbiased review.
December 31, 2021
How I loved this book, Isabelle Broom has such a marvellous way of describing places, that I couldn't help but want to visit Hvar in Croatia myself, especially if there is a man like Alex about!
Alex is a man of mystery, lives a simple life, and just always seems to be about.
Kate on the other hand is only in Croatia, to hide from a viral video and hope that her now ex-boyfriend may want to take her back if he misses her!
Kate does though help her brother, Toby with the interior design for his new hostel venture and also discovers a lot about herself in the process.
There were many moments there I was letting out audible giggles at various things in the book.
A real taste of Croatian life and truly enjoyable reading experience, I thoroughly enjoyed my time between the pages of The Getaway.
Thank you to Hodder & Stoughton and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Alex is a man of mystery, lives a simple life, and just always seems to be about.
Kate on the other hand is only in Croatia, to hide from a viral video and hope that her now ex-boyfriend may want to take her back if he misses her!
Kate does though help her brother, Toby with the interior design for his new hostel venture and also discovers a lot about herself in the process.
There were many moments there I was letting out audible giggles at various things in the book.
A real taste of Croatian life and truly enjoyable reading experience, I thoroughly enjoyed my time between the pages of The Getaway.
Thank you to Hodder & Stoughton and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
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