What do you think?
Rate this book
Island Romance #2
Holiday in the Hills
How do you write a romance novel with a broken heart?
Ivy is suffering from writer’s block after a disastrous affair with her (now ex) publisher. Her agent suggests an extended holiday to get her writing career back on track – a month’s stay in a stunning villa on the gorgeous island of Tenerife.
No WiFi, no TV, no distractions.
Except for the very attractive, very lovely Sebastián who comes by every day to clean the pool. Soon Ivy’s on a roll with her new novel and her relationship with Sebastián is growing into something more, despite the secrets he’s keeping.
But her ex isn’t done with her – professionally or personally. And with Sebastián keeping secrets, maybe a return to London is best…
A heartwarming, romantic escape perfect for fans of Sue Moorcroft, Mandy Baggot and Portia MacIntosh.
Ivy is suffering from writer’s block after a disastrous affair with her (now ex) publisher. Her agent suggests an extended holiday to get her writing career back on track – a month’s stay in a stunning villa on the gorgeous island of Tenerife.
No WiFi, no TV, no distractions.
Except for the very attractive, very lovely Sebastián who comes by every day to clean the pool. Soon Ivy’s on a roll with her new novel and her relationship with Sebastián is growing into something more, despite the secrets he’s keeping.
But her ex isn’t done with her – professionally or personally. And with Sebastián keeping secrets, maybe a return to London is best…
A heartwarming, romantic escape perfect for fans of Sue Moorcroft, Mandy Baggot and Portia MacIntosh.
304 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2020
45 people are currently reading
208 people want to read
About the author
Lilac Mills
84 books232 followersLilac lives on a Welsh hillside with her very patient husband and incredibly sweet dog, where she grows veggies (if the slugs don't get them), bakes (badly) and loves making things out of glitter and glue (a mess, usually).
She's been an avid reader ever since she got her hands on a copy of Noddy Goes to Toytown when she was five, and she once tried to read everything in her local library starting with A and working her way through the alphabet.
She loves long, hot summer days in the garden, and cold winter ones snuggled in front of the fire, but whatever the weather she's usually writing, or thinking about writing, with heartwarming romance and happy-ever-afters always on her mind.
She's been an avid reader ever since she got her hands on a copy of Noddy Goes to Toytown when she was five, and she once tried to read everything in her local library starting with A and working her way through the alphabet.
She loves long, hot summer days in the garden, and cold winter ones snuggled in front of the fire, but whatever the weather she's usually writing, or thinking about writing, with heartwarming romance and happy-ever-afters always on her mind.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
October 11, 2020
After reading quite a few fiction books covering a lot of serious topics, I needed something light, breezy and positive and this book delivered. Taking a bookish trip to Tenerife helped me de-stress, just like it helps the book's heroine Ivy Winter, an author of paranormal romances, come out of her writing slump when her agent and friend Nora rents her a villa on the island for six months to help her re-charge and move on from the disaster of her last book manuscript which her publisher boyfriend not only rejects but dumps her for a younger novelist. Not only does Ivy fall in love with the villa and the island, she also becomes heavily attracted to Sebastian, a handyman who cleans the pool and tends to the garden of the villa. Without any Wifi and TV to distract, the villa and her surroundings help Ivy get her writing mojo back while Sebastian, who becomes the inspiration for her fallen angel hero Nathaniel in the new paranormal romance series, and she become romantically involved.
This book has a holiday feel to it. Reading about the sights and sounds of Tenerife and the villages and tourist places that Sebastian takes Ivy to visit and experience, I felt like I was on my own bookish tour of the island. It was also nice to see that both the lead characters were in their 40s; it's not something I have found quite often, especially in a cozy, romance setting.
Gorgeous setting, good writing and likable characters--enjoyed it!
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Canelo and the author Lilac Mills for an e-Arc of the book.
This book has a holiday feel to it. Reading about the sights and sounds of Tenerife and the villages and tourist places that Sebastian takes Ivy to visit and experience, I felt like I was on my own bookish tour of the island. It was also nice to see that both the lead characters were in their 40s; it's not something I have found quite often, especially in a cozy, romance setting.
Gorgeous setting, good writing and likable characters--enjoyed it!
My thanks to NetGalley, the publisher Canelo and the author Lilac Mills for an e-Arc of the book.
October 10, 2020
Ivy is a writer of paranormal romances. She is having trouble writing her next novel after the triple whammy of her boyfriend/publisher slating her latest effort and ditching her for a younger, more exciting novelist. She comes to the island of Tenerife to metaphorically lick her wounds and spend six months trying to write a new novel.
The staff at the villa her agent has rented consist of a Spanish woman who cleans the house and speaks no English and a gorgeous man who cleans the pool and tends the gardens. All too quickly Sebastian the gardener becomes the model for Ivy's latest hero, Nathaniel, a fallen angel. But as her writing mojo comes back in full flood can Ivy separate Sebastian and Nathaniel in her mind? And, more to the point, does she want to?
I really enjoyed this romance, even if it was a bit predictable. Ivy and Sebastian were engaging characters and I enjoyed them being over 40 - something of a rarity in Romancelandia. I also don't recall having read a novel set in Tenerife so that was a novelty.
I would classify this as a perfect holiday read, or a great read when you are restricted from travelling abroad due to the coronavirus and can only live vicariously through novels.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
The staff at the villa her agent has rented consist of a Spanish woman who cleans the house and speaks no English and a gorgeous man who cleans the pool and tends the gardens. All too quickly Sebastian the gardener becomes the model for Ivy's latest hero, Nathaniel, a fallen angel. But as her writing mojo comes back in full flood can Ivy separate Sebastian and Nathaniel in her mind? And, more to the point, does she want to?
I really enjoyed this romance, even if it was a bit predictable. Ivy and Sebastian were engaging characters and I enjoyed them being over 40 - something of a rarity in Romancelandia. I also don't recall having read a novel set in Tenerife so that was a novelty.
I would classify this as a perfect holiday read, or a great read when you are restricted from travelling abroad due to the coronavirus and can only live vicariously through novels.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
Bumped for release.
February 4, 2021
Oh this book was so so good! I wasn't expecting to like this book that much! First of all, i loved being in Tenerife! (I need some holidays!!!) then I loved the main characters, I loved the fact that the main character ivy is a writer and I loved following her in the building of her new book, I love the way the romance build up in this book, I loved the male character Sebastian (he seems to be the dream guy! I am in love with him!!!), and I loved the suspens and mystery around Sebastian (even though I guessed almost everything quite rapidly but this doesn't matter). This book is really good! I totally recommend it! Go and buy it, you won't regret it! It's a page turner!
September 12, 2020
"I love you, Ivy Winter, from now and until the stars fall out of the sky."
I love this book! It is about an author that finds herself in a slump after ending a bad relationship. So she goes to another country to concentrate on her new book, but there she meets someone that could distract her from writing.
The plotline is great, it could have been very predictable, but besides the part about falling in love, there is also a 'mystery' that keeps you guessing throughout the entire book.
I loved the writing which is very fast paced: it grabbed me from the beginning (that in my case is very rare).
The only small thing that I didn't like is that sometimes it was repetitive on how handsome the character was, but I think that I'm the problem since I don't care so much about looks.
Oh, and the ending! I've never read a more beautiful ending, I'm serious about this.
I would definitely like to read it again in the future and buy a physical copy!
I love this book! It is about an author that finds herself in a slump after ending a bad relationship. So she goes to another country to concentrate on her new book, but there she meets someone that could distract her from writing.
The plotline is great, it could have been very predictable, but besides the part about falling in love, there is also a 'mystery' that keeps you guessing throughout the entire book.
I loved the writing which is very fast paced: it grabbed me from the beginning (that in my case is very rare).
The only small thing that I didn't like is that sometimes it was repetitive on how handsome the character was, but I think that I'm the problem since I don't care so much about looks.
Oh, and the ending! I've never read a more beautiful ending, I'm serious about this.
I would definitely like to read it again in the future and buy a physical copy!
September 13, 2020
arc kindly provided by the publisher via netgalley
Between 3 and 4. The book was great and I liked the soap opera vibe in it. The final plot twist surprised me a lot (even though part of if was pretty much obvious). However, there's something I can't ignore: the use of Spanish. Being honest, it wasn't very bad. I have read worse. But it annoys me a lot when authors decide to throw random Spanish words in sentences because let's be real, no one speaks like that. But I guess that's just my way of seeing it!
Between 3 and 4. The book was great and I liked the soap opera vibe in it. The final plot twist surprised me a lot (even though part of if was pretty much obvious). However, there's something I can't ignore: the use of Spanish. Being honest, it wasn't very bad. I have read worse. But it annoys me a lot when authors decide to throw random Spanish words in sentences because let's be real, no one speaks like that. But I guess that's just my way of seeing it!
April 24, 2023
Ivy comes to Tenerife to work on writing her latest book and mend her broken heart. This predictable romance was a light, easy read. I especially liked that some of the island’s sights were included.
September 6, 2020
Oh wow I totally adored this story.
After being dumped by her boyfriend Ivy who has writers block flees to a remote villa in Tenerife to get her mojo back.
One morning Ivy's head is turned by handyman Sebastian and the two stike up a friendship.
What is Sebastian hiding from Ivy?
This has all the feel good vibes you could want, I was drawn in right from the first page and loved every moment.
Great work Lilac.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
After being dumped by her boyfriend Ivy who has writers block flees to a remote villa in Tenerife to get her mojo back.
One morning Ivy's head is turned by handyman Sebastian and the two stike up a friendship.
What is Sebastian hiding from Ivy?
This has all the feel good vibes you could want, I was drawn in right from the first page and loved every moment.
Great work Lilac.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
July 4, 2021
first off ivy and sebé <3 for the first time in a long time i liked both the main female and male characters! i absolutely loved this book, it was such a feel good, cute summer romance read, this was my first book of lilac mills and most likely won’t be my last.
October 5, 2020
A romance novel about a romance novelist. Yes please!
After having her heartbroken by her boyfriend/publisher, Ivy Winter’s is suffering a major case of writer's block. How do you write romance with a broken heart? In an effort to fix her writing her agent and friend sends her away on a 6 month writing retreat.
Ivy is blown away with the villa she is set up in the small island town of Tenerife. It seems to be the perfect place to escape all the distractions of her everyday life. To get back to her writing. Well, it was until she stumbled up on the hot groundskeeper of her villa, Sebastian.
Sebastian is kind, funny, generous, and beyond attractive. It also doesn’t hurt that he is one of the only people in the small Spanish speaking island, who speaks English. It doesn’t take long for writing inspiration to strike in the resemblance of Sebastian.
Within a few weeks Ivy’s personal and professional life are flourishing. She begins to love the quiet little town and the handsome handyman that lives there. Will she be able to keep up with the demands of her writing? Will she continue to feel the creativity running through her? Will she ever want to leave her little villa or the amazing man she has met?
I loved Holiday in the Hills. It was a beautiful romance. There was no graphic sex included in the story, which was oddly okay for me. It did talk of “love making”, which felt right for the story. I didn’t feel like it needed any of that extra, over the top smut. It was a feel good book that made me smile throughout.
*I received this ARC courteous of NetGalley and Caleno in exchange for my honest review.
After having her heartbroken by her boyfriend/publisher, Ivy Winter’s is suffering a major case of writer's block. How do you write romance with a broken heart? In an effort to fix her writing her agent and friend sends her away on a 6 month writing retreat.
Ivy is blown away with the villa she is set up in the small island town of Tenerife. It seems to be the perfect place to escape all the distractions of her everyday life. To get back to her writing. Well, it was until she stumbled up on the hot groundskeeper of her villa, Sebastian.
Sebastian is kind, funny, generous, and beyond attractive. It also doesn’t hurt that he is one of the only people in the small Spanish speaking island, who speaks English. It doesn’t take long for writing inspiration to strike in the resemblance of Sebastian.
Within a few weeks Ivy’s personal and professional life are flourishing. She begins to love the quiet little town and the handsome handyman that lives there. Will she be able to keep up with the demands of her writing? Will she continue to feel the creativity running through her? Will she ever want to leave her little villa or the amazing man she has met?
I loved Holiday in the Hills. It was a beautiful romance. There was no graphic sex included in the story, which was oddly okay for me. It did talk of “love making”, which felt right for the story. I didn’t feel like it needed any of that extra, over the top smut. It was a feel good book that made me smile throughout.
*I received this ARC courteous of NetGalley and Caleno in exchange for my honest review.
October 14, 2020
I loved this book!! It was cute, romantic, dreamy.... it was everything I needed!
Following a writer who recently went through a break up and needs to refocus so she can write a new book. She goes for a 6 month writing getaway on a beautiful island. She stays in a villa overlooking the ocean and OF COURSE meets a really cute guy and that is where the fun begins!
The overall feeling of this book was wonderful. I enjoyed all the writing aspects. It gives the reader the inside scoop of a writer and the creative process. It was really fun getting to experience the excitement of writing something new and being totally stoked about all the cool ideas!
I thought the setting was well done. I felt like I was on that island, inside the villa, lounging at the pool WITH the character! It was just so magical and romantic and perfect.
The romance... it was AMAZING. There the perfect amount of cute and sexy. I enjoyed the build up of the romance. There was also that miscommunication trope which I enjoyed. I thought that the drama aspect was perfect because it was not too much that I was like how will the relationship work out.. it just made it so they had something to work through and it was well done.
There is a little bit of a twist, or like a secret throughout. However, it was pretty obvious from the beginning but I loved waiting to see how long it took the main character to figure out! It was fun.
Overall. I would recommend this book to anyone who needs a light, romantic read! It was such a perfect escape from this gloomy weather. Loved it!
Following a writer who recently went through a break up and needs to refocus so she can write a new book. She goes for a 6 month writing getaway on a beautiful island. She stays in a villa overlooking the ocean and OF COURSE meets a really cute guy and that is where the fun begins!
The overall feeling of this book was wonderful. I enjoyed all the writing aspects. It gives the reader the inside scoop of a writer and the creative process. It was really fun getting to experience the excitement of writing something new and being totally stoked about all the cool ideas!
I thought the setting was well done. I felt like I was on that island, inside the villa, lounging at the pool WITH the character! It was just so magical and romantic and perfect.
The romance... it was AMAZING. There the perfect amount of cute and sexy. I enjoyed the build up of the romance. There was also that miscommunication trope which I enjoyed. I thought that the drama aspect was perfect because it was not too much that I was like how will the relationship work out.. it just made it so they had something to work through and it was well done.
There is a little bit of a twist, or like a secret throughout. However, it was pretty obvious from the beginning but I loved waiting to see how long it took the main character to figure out! It was fun.
Overall. I would recommend this book to anyone who needs a light, romantic read! It was such a perfect escape from this gloomy weather. Loved it!
October 6, 2020
Holiday in the Hills by Lilac Mills is a wonderful romance, and just what I needed to read one rainy Saturday. I will be reading more books by this author, because I loved this book. I enjoyed the characters, and I could picture myself seeing all the beautiful sites, and swimming in the pool. Sometimes you just need to escape from reality, especially lately, and this book is the perfect way. I highly recommend this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
February 1, 2021
2.5 stars
'Holiday In The Hills' is a fun, light-hearted book following a romance novelist who is trying to write her new book in Tenerife, but is also falling in love with a man she meets there.
This book was fun and had such a good concept, I just don't think that this book was for me. It definitely isn't a bad book and I can see a lot of people really enjoying it, I just didn't really connect with the characters and found myself getting a bit bored and skim-reading most of it. I did really like all the scenes between Ivy and Sebastian and found those to be the most interesting parts of the story. The two of them also did have a lot of chemistry and I found Sebastian to be a really sweet love interest.
'Holiday In The Hills' was simply not a book for me, but I can definitely see a lot of people loving this so if you want something summery and fun with a beautiful setting then this is definitely the book for you.
Thank you to Canelo for providing me with an advance copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
'Holiday In The Hills' is a fun, light-hearted book following a romance novelist who is trying to write her new book in Tenerife, but is also falling in love with a man she meets there.
This book was fun and had such a good concept, I just don't think that this book was for me. It definitely isn't a bad book and I can see a lot of people really enjoying it, I just didn't really connect with the characters and found myself getting a bit bored and skim-reading most of it. I did really like all the scenes between Ivy and Sebastian and found those to be the most interesting parts of the story. The two of them also did have a lot of chemistry and I found Sebastian to be a really sweet love interest.
'Holiday In The Hills' was simply not a book for me, but I can definitely see a lot of people loving this so if you want something summery and fun with a beautiful setting then this is definitely the book for you.
Thank you to Canelo for providing me with an advance copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
March 15, 2022
2,5⭐️
llenísimo de clichés pero me ha entretenido y encima me costó 2€ siendo nuevo ajajajaja no me puedo quejar
llenísimo de clichés pero me ha entretenido y encima me costó 2€ siendo nuevo ajajajaja no me puedo quejar
October 8, 2020
~4.5⭐Rating~
"He grounded her and anchored her, yet at the same time her heart soared and dipped with the bliss of it."
Ivy feels like she has lost her writing emoji, to make matters worse her publisher boyfriend tore her new draft to shreds and then goes on to dump her for a younger author! Thinking the best thing would be for Ivy to get a bit of sun and relaxation, her agent Nora sets up a 6 month writing retreat in the picturesque Tenerife. Hoping that with no wifi, no T.V and no distractions will do the trick in getting her creative juices flowing again.
••
"And all the time she could feel the ghost of his lips on hers, the scent of his cologne filling her nose. A thrilling electricity flowed between them, sparking tremors in her tummy and making her heart flutter"
What was supposed to be a distraction free retreat soon turned out to hold the hottest distraction of all; the gorgeous pool guy Sebastian. As it would be this is exactly what Ivy's inspiration dry mind needed, turns out a little good looking distraction is all Ivy needed to get her moko back. As her new master piece begins to come to life Ivy slowly begins to fall in love with the beautiful island as well as the kind Sebastian. Just as Ivy begins to feel like she has her footing again her past comes barreling back knocking over what she thought she knew of he new love.
"Never in all her life had she thrown herself so thoroughly into a kiss . It was drowning her, sucking her into its depths, consuming her until she had no coherent thought left in her head. She was utterly lost to it and to him."
••
"And he kissed her again, underneath the stars, with the sound of the waves in her ears and the smell of the ocean surrounding her. And she fell in love with him a little bit more."
I really enjoyed Holiday in the Hills, this was a cute and easy to read romance. I liked that this was a fast paced read that did not drag on unnecessary with unneeded drama. But boy was there drama and I loved every bit of it. Both main characters were super cute, though I will say that I did lean more towards Ivy. I absolutely loved the easy attraction between these two characters and their instant chemistry and attraction.
••
I have to say the ending to this book could possibly be one of my favorites of all time, not only was it super cute but it tied the entire story up very well. I would definitely recommend reading this book by Mills.
"He grounded her and anchored her, yet at the same time her heart soared and dipped with the bliss of it."
Ivy feels like she has lost her writing emoji, to make matters worse her publisher boyfriend tore her new draft to shreds and then goes on to dump her for a younger author! Thinking the best thing would be for Ivy to get a bit of sun and relaxation, her agent Nora sets up a 6 month writing retreat in the picturesque Tenerife. Hoping that with no wifi, no T.V and no distractions will do the trick in getting her creative juices flowing again.
••
"And all the time she could feel the ghost of his lips on hers, the scent of his cologne filling her nose. A thrilling electricity flowed between them, sparking tremors in her tummy and making her heart flutter"
What was supposed to be a distraction free retreat soon turned out to hold the hottest distraction of all; the gorgeous pool guy Sebastian. As it would be this is exactly what Ivy's inspiration dry mind needed, turns out a little good looking distraction is all Ivy needed to get her moko back. As her new master piece begins to come to life Ivy slowly begins to fall in love with the beautiful island as well as the kind Sebastian. Just as Ivy begins to feel like she has her footing again her past comes barreling back knocking over what she thought she knew of he new love.
"Never in all her life had she thrown herself so thoroughly into a kiss . It was drowning her, sucking her into its depths, consuming her until she had no coherent thought left in her head. She was utterly lost to it and to him."
••
"And he kissed her again, underneath the stars, with the sound of the waves in her ears and the smell of the ocean surrounding her. And she fell in love with him a little bit more."
I really enjoyed Holiday in the Hills, this was a cute and easy to read romance. I liked that this was a fast paced read that did not drag on unnecessary with unneeded drama. But boy was there drama and I loved every bit of it. Both main characters were super cute, though I will say that I did lean more towards Ivy. I absolutely loved the easy attraction between these two characters and their instant chemistry and attraction.
••
I have to say the ending to this book could possibly be one of my favorites of all time, not only was it super cute but it tied the entire story up very well. I would definitely recommend reading this book by Mills.
October 3, 2020
Thank you Netgalley and Canelo for giving me ARC! This review is based strictly on my honest opinion.
Ivy Winters is going through her heartbreak when her publisher/ex-lover Daniel insults her latest manuscript and then dumps her for another upcoming author. Her agent Nora, sends Ivy off to a villa in Tenerife so Ivy could come up with a manuscript in the span of six months she was going to be there. But the villa has no TV, no Wi-fi despite the fact that the villa has a beautiful view of the mountains and was a cozy place to live.
Along with a very handsome and hot man named Sebastian who comes to the villa every now and then as a maintenance worker and who cleans the pool. Ivy was soon mesmerized by Sebastian's hotness that she immediately comes up a character based on Sebastian named Nathaniel and soon starts polishing up her novel. And while working on the novel, Ivy and Sebastian soon develops closeness...
I really like the plot line--the book itself is well written and the author did a good job drawing the reader into the story. Though I am not much of a romance novel fan, this book actually won me over--I really like how the chemistry between Ivy and Sebastian soon developed and began to turn into a romantic relationship. I also like how funny the story is too--there were some parts in the book where I actually burst into laughing! The description of the villa with the view of the mountains, the family ties with Sebastian, the description of the small town and also the food made me feel like I am in that place with Ivy and enjoying the lonely but nice vacation or something. I would say, I really enjoyed reading this book and looking forward to read more from this author--worth totally five stars!
Ivy Winters is going through her heartbreak when her publisher/ex-lover Daniel insults her latest manuscript and then dumps her for another upcoming author. Her agent Nora, sends Ivy off to a villa in Tenerife so Ivy could come up with a manuscript in the span of six months she was going to be there. But the villa has no TV, no Wi-fi despite the fact that the villa has a beautiful view of the mountains and was a cozy place to live.
Along with a very handsome and hot man named Sebastian who comes to the villa every now and then as a maintenance worker and who cleans the pool. Ivy was soon mesmerized by Sebastian's hotness that she immediately comes up a character based on Sebastian named Nathaniel and soon starts polishing up her novel. And while working on the novel, Ivy and Sebastian soon develops closeness...
I really like the plot line--the book itself is well written and the author did a good job drawing the reader into the story. Though I am not much of a romance novel fan, this book actually won me over--I really like how the chemistry between Ivy and Sebastian soon developed and began to turn into a romantic relationship. I also like how funny the story is too--there were some parts in the book where I actually burst into laughing! The description of the villa with the view of the mountains, the family ties with Sebastian, the description of the small town and also the food made me feel like I am in that place with Ivy and enjoying the lonely but nice vacation or something. I would say, I really enjoyed reading this book and looking forward to read more from this author--worth totally five stars!
December 18, 2020
It’s bad enough to lose your mojo and your publisher, but when that publisher is also your long-term relationship, and he’s dropped you for a younger version – things are pretty horrid. And that’s where Ivy is busily procrastinating with no new ideas, no new relationship on the horizon, and even more importantly, she’s out of ideas for how to change her life. Until her agent suggests she take a break to write – no phone, no wi-fi, no distractions, and suggests she goes to a rental house on Tenerife to find her mojo,
With a cleaner who speaks no English, and a pool-boy / gardener who is everything she’d imagined as a hero, Ivy is intrigued by Sebastian and imagines him as a fallen angel in the new story that is coming together nicely. Her ability to separate her imagined hero from the man standing in front of her isn’t the real problem, per se, but that difficulty (and imagined traits) does provide contrast with the actual Sebastian in many clever ways.
While slightly predictable, there is a mystery tossed into the mix that engages readers as they work to figure out the secrets, the whys and just where the connection between Ivy and Sebastian will lead, and if she’s merely ‘fitting him’ into her ‘idealized’ version of a partner.... Clever, fun and super sweet – sign me up for more “authors finding their mojo” stories.
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
With a cleaner who speaks no English, and a pool-boy / gardener who is everything she’d imagined as a hero, Ivy is intrigued by Sebastian and imagines him as a fallen angel in the new story that is coming together nicely. Her ability to separate her imagined hero from the man standing in front of her isn’t the real problem, per se, but that difficulty (and imagined traits) does provide contrast with the actual Sebastian in many clever ways.
While slightly predictable, there is a mystery tossed into the mix that engages readers as they work to figure out the secrets, the whys and just where the connection between Ivy and Sebastian will lead, and if she’s merely ‘fitting him’ into her ‘idealized’ version of a partner.... Clever, fun and super sweet – sign me up for more “authors finding their mojo” stories.
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
October 12, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and Canelo for this ARC. The book was published October 8 so you can get your own copy now!
This is a fun escapist romance novel set on the tropical island of Tenerife. I was truly transported there and am longing for a sunny vacation now!
Ivy is a paranormal romance novelist who has just broken up with her publisher (both on a personal and professional level). Her editor has sent her from London to Tenerife in the hopes that getting away from the city and the drama will help her get back into her writing. Ivy finds herself in a picturesque setting living in a villa overlooking the ocean and coastal towns, without wifi, and gets down to work. It also helps that the maintenance worker at the villa, Sebastian, is drop dead gorgeous and is the perfect inspiration for her leading male character.
Ivy embarks on a journey of getting over her heartbreak, finding her voice in her writing again, and opening herself up to the potential for love again with Sebastian.
The characters are lovable and I couldn’t help but root for them. The plot is a bit predictable and follows a similar outline of many romance novels (happy happy happy, some secrets, the secrets are revealed and some miscommunication causes a falling out/drama, and then they come back together again and live happily ever after). The romance is very closed door- there is still some clear chemistry between the characters but the novel leaves the “action” up to the reader’s imagination.
Overall, I enjoyed the book despite the predictability. I’d give it 3.5 stars.
This is a fun escapist romance novel set on the tropical island of Tenerife. I was truly transported there and am longing for a sunny vacation now!
Ivy is a paranormal romance novelist who has just broken up with her publisher (both on a personal and professional level). Her editor has sent her from London to Tenerife in the hopes that getting away from the city and the drama will help her get back into her writing. Ivy finds herself in a picturesque setting living in a villa overlooking the ocean and coastal towns, without wifi, and gets down to work. It also helps that the maintenance worker at the villa, Sebastian, is drop dead gorgeous and is the perfect inspiration for her leading male character.
Ivy embarks on a journey of getting over her heartbreak, finding her voice in her writing again, and opening herself up to the potential for love again with Sebastian.
The characters are lovable and I couldn’t help but root for them. The plot is a bit predictable and follows a similar outline of many romance novels (happy happy happy, some secrets, the secrets are revealed and some miscommunication causes a falling out/drama, and then they come back together again and live happily ever after). The romance is very closed door- there is still some clear chemistry between the characters but the novel leaves the “action” up to the reader’s imagination.
Overall, I enjoyed the book despite the predictability. I’d give it 3.5 stars.
September 22, 2024
After finishing Sunrise on the Coast last month I knew I was finishing this series and I cannot even begin to describe how much I adored this book! Every single detail about it was perfect, the chemistry between Ivy & Seb, the dates, the secret identity, ALL OF IT. I especially love the way that everything was handled in this book, while we saw Ivy fall in love with Seb pretty thick and fast the relationship as whole didn’t feel rushed the pace worked perfectly alongside the creation of Ivy’s new book - it was as if we watching her characters fall in love rather than her & Seb which I thought was beautiful 🤭
I also loved Ivy’s character development, she started the book as a broken women who didn’t believe in herself and it was wonderful to watch her not only fall in love with writing again but to watch her start to believe in herself & her ability to write a good book it truly was beautiful. It fell in so well with the deeper meaning of not being afraid to start over or make a change in your life to spark your passion again.
Plus it was so cute to watch Ivy make friends with Jorge & his group of guys, they were giving dad energy and it was so cute to see them go to war for her whenever she was upset it was honestly so sweet!! Overall, as every other Lilac book I have read I love love loved this one and i’m going to be honest this is definitely a contender for my favourite Lilac book ever read it was just so fun & flirty, I could not stop giggling the whole time. I am SO excited to read the last book ASAP 🥰
I also loved Ivy’s character development, she started the book as a broken women who didn’t believe in herself and it was wonderful to watch her not only fall in love with writing again but to watch her start to believe in herself & her ability to write a good book it truly was beautiful. It fell in so well with the deeper meaning of not being afraid to start over or make a change in your life to spark your passion again.
Plus it was so cute to watch Ivy make friends with Jorge & his group of guys, they were giving dad energy and it was so cute to see them go to war for her whenever she was upset it was honestly so sweet!! Overall, as every other Lilac book I have read I love love loved this one and i’m going to be honest this is definitely a contender for my favourite Lilac book ever read it was just so fun & flirty, I could not stop giggling the whole time. I am SO excited to read the last book ASAP 🥰
September 18, 2020
This book was so cute! It even made me feel like I was on vacation right along with Ivy. At first I thought this book was going to be similar to Beach Read by Emily Henry but it's actually very different. The plot didn't move too slow or too fast. I rooted for Ivy to write her book and get back and Daniel for being such an ass hole. Sebastian was a great male lead. You could tell something was going on with him and there was more than meets the eye. There were hints of it throughout the book, but I wasn't expecting who he really was. She did a really good job of making Daniel a dislikable character. The only criticism I could provide is I wish she hadn't given ages to the characters. Half the time I was picturing them being in their 30's, maybe because thats the age I'm getting closer to and what I favor late 20s early 30s characters, but then she said they were old and I was like ohh. I think had she left it a little bit ambiguous I would have liked it a little better. But thats just my opinion. I could just be not the target demographic. Either way I really enjoyed it and would definitely recommend! 4 Stars.
Thanks Netgalley and the publisher for the book in exchange for an honest review
Thanks Netgalley and the publisher for the book in exchange for an honest review
September 27, 2020
Light, sunny romance in the hills of Tenerife😊
4.5🌟stars
Lilac Mills' Holiday in the Hills is an easy-to-read, breezy romance in foreign climes that I really enjoyed. It's not deep or heavily angsty (though there is a villain and the ubiquitous gaps in communication) and that's totally okay. Apart from hugs and kisses, the romance is largely behind closed doors and suitable to the tone of the book.
In addition to the likable main characters, British paranormal romance writer Ivy and Canary Islands native with some secrets Sebastian, I also really took to Jorge and the clutch of old men perpetually hanging out at the local cafe who added a fun touch of local color. And Carla, the ancient cook who sings and noisily bangs pots as she whips up her fantastic local dishes.
My one issue: I think the book is incorrectly titled. The heroine is in Tenerife for work, not a holiday break. Those hills may have gorgeous, sunny vistas and her rental accommodation and pool man may be dreamy, but she's an author with a professional reputation to revive and pages to be written.
Thanks to Canelo Escape and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
4.5🌟stars
Lilac Mills' Holiday in the Hills is an easy-to-read, breezy romance in foreign climes that I really enjoyed. It's not deep or heavily angsty (though there is a villain and the ubiquitous gaps in communication) and that's totally okay. Apart from hugs and kisses, the romance is largely behind closed doors and suitable to the tone of the book.
In addition to the likable main characters, British paranormal romance writer Ivy and Canary Islands native with some secrets Sebastian, I also really took to Jorge and the clutch of old men perpetually hanging out at the local cafe who added a fun touch of local color. And Carla, the ancient cook who sings and noisily bangs pots as she whips up her fantastic local dishes.
My one issue: I think the book is incorrectly titled. The heroine is in Tenerife for work, not a holiday break. Those hills may have gorgeous, sunny vistas and her rental accommodation and pool man may be dreamy, but she's an author with a professional reputation to revive and pages to be written.
Thanks to Canelo Escape and NetGalley for providing an advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest review.
October 1, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley and Canelo for a digital ARC of Holiday in the Hills by Lilac Mills.
Ivy Winter, a novelist with writer's block, is sent to Tenerife for six months by her agent to get her writing groove back. She's just broken up with her boyfriend, who also happened to be her publicist, after he cheats on her with a younger up-and-coming writer. The villa on Tenerife has no wi-fi or cell service so Ivy can focus on her writing. And thankfully, a very attractive pool boy, Sebastian, gives Ivy ample inspiration for her new main character. Sebastian and Ivy begin their relationship over daily coffee while anticipation of their relationship builds. Is Ivy over her ex? Is Sebastian really who he says he is?
I loved this book. I enjoy meta-cognitive books about the writing process. I was initially interested in this book because it is set on Tenerife in the Canary Islands of Spain, where a friend of mine lived. Lilac Mills peppers the landscape in to scenes throughout the book so the reader truly gets a sense of what the island is like. I can't wait to read her other book, also set on Tenerife!
Look for this book on 10-8-2020!
Ivy Winter, a novelist with writer's block, is sent to Tenerife for six months by her agent to get her writing groove back. She's just broken up with her boyfriend, who also happened to be her publicist, after he cheats on her with a younger up-and-coming writer. The villa on Tenerife has no wi-fi or cell service so Ivy can focus on her writing. And thankfully, a very attractive pool boy, Sebastian, gives Ivy ample inspiration for her new main character. Sebastian and Ivy begin their relationship over daily coffee while anticipation of their relationship builds. Is Ivy over her ex? Is Sebastian really who he says he is?
I loved this book. I enjoy meta-cognitive books about the writing process. I was initially interested in this book because it is set on Tenerife in the Canary Islands of Spain, where a friend of mine lived. Lilac Mills peppers the landscape in to scenes throughout the book so the reader truly gets a sense of what the island is like. I can't wait to read her other book, also set on Tenerife!
Look for this book on 10-8-2020!
July 3, 2022
I've now read all 3 of the Island Romance books and I think this one was my favourite.
The books aren't connected in any way other than that they are all set on the island of Tenerife, so no continuing story line, or crossover characters, so you can read them in any order you choose, but honestly do read them, because they are such gorgeous escapist reads.
Ivy Winter is a paranormal romance author, but after a disastrous affair with her now ex publisher, Ivy is suffering from writers block, so her agent suggests a six month retreat to the island of Tenerife to help her get back on track.
There aren't supposed to be any distractions, no TV no WI-FI but there is the rather attractive Sebastián, who comes to the villa every day to clean the pool.
Soon Ivy's creative ideas are overflowing and her relationship with Sebastián is moving on apace too, but there are secrets he is keeping.
I did figure out what it was, that Sebastián was trying to keep under wraps, reasonably early on in the book, but I still really enjoyed the ending.
Yet another fabulous book by an author who is now a very firm favourite of mine.
The books aren't connected in any way other than that they are all set on the island of Tenerife, so no continuing story line, or crossover characters, so you can read them in any order you choose, but honestly do read them, because they are such gorgeous escapist reads.
Ivy Winter is a paranormal romance author, but after a disastrous affair with her now ex publisher, Ivy is suffering from writers block, so her agent suggests a six month retreat to the island of Tenerife to help her get back on track.
There aren't supposed to be any distractions, no TV no WI-FI but there is the rather attractive Sebastián, who comes to the villa every day to clean the pool.
Soon Ivy's creative ideas are overflowing and her relationship with Sebastián is moving on apace too, but there are secrets he is keeping.
I did figure out what it was, that Sebastián was trying to keep under wraps, reasonably early on in the book, but I still really enjoyed the ending.
Yet another fabulous book by an author who is now a very firm favourite of mine.
September 16, 2020
If you like a good slow burn romance, this is definitely the book for you.
The book starts out with an author named Ivy, who travels to Tenerife, Spain to continue her writing, after her ex-boyfriend/publisher dumps her for a new writer. Ivy quickly realize that Tenerife is a different lifestyle than she's used to back in London, with no cell service or WIFI in her Villa. Although Ivy feels disconnected, she loves her beautiful Villa that overlooks the city of Garachico and the ocean, with an infinity pool in the backyard. It also doesn’t hurt that her pool guy, Sebastian, is extremely attractive and tends to the Villa every day. Little does Ivy know that Sebastian has a lot more secrets about him than just being her pool guy.
This book was extremely upbeat and I was so happy while I read it! If you want a light read with nothing but positive events, I highly recommend reading this book. It was a great book to end my summer vacation with and I'm looking forward to the day I can visit Tenerife!
The book starts out with an author named Ivy, who travels to Tenerife, Spain to continue her writing, after her ex-boyfriend/publisher dumps her for a new writer. Ivy quickly realize that Tenerife is a different lifestyle than she's used to back in London, with no cell service or WIFI in her Villa. Although Ivy feels disconnected, she loves her beautiful Villa that overlooks the city of Garachico and the ocean, with an infinity pool in the backyard. It also doesn’t hurt that her pool guy, Sebastian, is extremely attractive and tends to the Villa every day. Little does Ivy know that Sebastian has a lot more secrets about him than just being her pool guy.
This book was extremely upbeat and I was so happy while I read it! If you want a light read with nothing but positive events, I highly recommend reading this book. It was a great book to end my summer vacation with and I'm looking forward to the day I can visit Tenerife!
September 29, 2020
This is the perfect escape book. One to read when you want to be in a world of sunshine and romance.
I was expecting it to be linked to the first book in the series also set on Tenerife, but it isn’t. We don’t have any cross over characters, and so this book can be read as a complete stand-alone.
I loved the setting of this book. I stay in a villa in Cyprus once a year, which is up in the mountains and has an infinity pool. This was the villa I saw in the book as it was described almost identically (although in a different country). It made me homesick for the villa I visit, but at the same time I could feel the heat on my face and imagine everything in detail, it was brilliant.
I loved the characters, although Ivy’s lack of self-confidence was a little annoying at times. However, without it, there wouldn’t have been some of the best bits of drama in the book.
This is a real feel-good book, filled with all the ups and downs and happy ever afters that you would expect and need from such a story.
Thanks for reading! If you want to see more of my reviews visit www.pinkanddizzy.com
I was expecting it to be linked to the first book in the series also set on Tenerife, but it isn’t. We don’t have any cross over characters, and so this book can be read as a complete stand-alone.
I loved the setting of this book. I stay in a villa in Cyprus once a year, which is up in the mountains and has an infinity pool. This was the villa I saw in the book as it was described almost identically (although in a different country). It made me homesick for the villa I visit, but at the same time I could feel the heat on my face and imagine everything in detail, it was brilliant.
I loved the characters, although Ivy’s lack of self-confidence was a little annoying at times. However, without it, there wouldn’t have been some of the best bits of drama in the book.
This is a real feel-good book, filled with all the ups and downs and happy ever afters that you would expect and need from such a story.
Thanks for reading! If you want to see more of my reviews visit www.pinkanddizzy.com
October 11, 2020
If you enjoyed Sunrise on the Coast and fancy another trip to Tenerife, then check out Lilac Mills’ latest release Holiday in the Hills.
This time we join Ivy, a forty-something established author who is sent off to Tenerife for 6 months by her agent. Ivy has recently split with her boyfriend who is also her publisher. Yes, awkward!
Ivy is delighted, not just by the villa with the infinity pool and fabulous views, but also by the handsome pool man, Sebastian.
The two become friendly but there is clearly something that we don’t know about Sebastian. We are drip fed hints to keep us guessing throughout this intense romance.
I spent a chilly autumn Sunday reading this an it was lovely to be reminded of warm sunny days. You could imagine the abundance of food described and picture the scenery throughout. I loved reading about the sightseeing and trips beyond the villa. I also enjoyed reading how the writing and publication process worked for the fictional author.
A pleasant easy romance read. Published October 2020 by Canelo
This time we join Ivy, a forty-something established author who is sent off to Tenerife for 6 months by her agent. Ivy has recently split with her boyfriend who is also her publisher. Yes, awkward!
Ivy is delighted, not just by the villa with the infinity pool and fabulous views, but also by the handsome pool man, Sebastian.
The two become friendly but there is clearly something that we don’t know about Sebastian. We are drip fed hints to keep us guessing throughout this intense romance.
I spent a chilly autumn Sunday reading this an it was lovely to be reminded of warm sunny days. You could imagine the abundance of food described and picture the scenery throughout. I loved reading about the sightseeing and trips beyond the villa. I also enjoyed reading how the writing and publication process worked for the fictional author.
A pleasant easy romance read. Published October 2020 by Canelo
October 24, 2020
2.5/5 stars
This was a cute holiday read. We meet Ivy as she is headed to a villa in Tenerife to spend six months focusing on reviving her writing career. As soon as we met Sebastián, the pool man, it was obvious that they were going to fall in love.
The romance in the book was sweet, although quite cheesy at times. Lilac did a great job of showcasing the relationship, while also showing us in little ways that Sebastián had more secrets than he was letting on. The book was slow moving at first, but the end really picked up as the drama unfolded.
I think my only complain about this book is that it seemed like Ivy's entire career was dependent on the men in her life, and that she felt like she was incomplete without someone to love. Otherwise it was a simple romance and would be a good beach read.
This was a cute holiday read. We meet Ivy as she is headed to a villa in Tenerife to spend six months focusing on reviving her writing career. As soon as we met Sebastián, the pool man, it was obvious that they were going to fall in love.
The romance in the book was sweet, although quite cheesy at times. Lilac did a great job of showcasing the relationship, while also showing us in little ways that Sebastián had more secrets than he was letting on. The book was slow moving at first, but the end really picked up as the drama unfolded.
I think my only complain about this book is that it seemed like Ivy's entire career was dependent on the men in her life, and that she felt like she was incomplete without someone to love. Otherwise it was a simple romance and would be a good beach read.
December 29, 2020
What a highly enjoyable and sunny romantic escapism book that had me transported to Tenerife, complete with absolutely stunning guy, and an author who needs a retreat to see if she can be inspired past her writers block.
There is fabulous chemistry in this book and although I was fairly sure I had guessed what Sebastian was hiding, well the reveal still supplied some shocks and a fantastic conclusion.
There is a lot to love in this book, especially the villa, the surrounding area that Ivy is staying in, which is a rather remote part of Tenerife but that I could picture really clearly.
It's just a really enjoyable escapist read that I would have loved to have read poolside on holiday but it works on cold winters day as you can feel the heat coming from it.
Light hearted and entertaining, just what I wanted from this book. I loved it.
Thank you to Canelo and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
There is fabulous chemistry in this book and although I was fairly sure I had guessed what Sebastian was hiding, well the reveal still supplied some shocks and a fantastic conclusion.
There is a lot to love in this book, especially the villa, the surrounding area that Ivy is staying in, which is a rather remote part of Tenerife but that I could picture really clearly.
It's just a really enjoyable escapist read that I would have loved to have read poolside on holiday but it works on cold winters day as you can feel the heat coming from it.
Light hearted and entertaining, just what I wanted from this book. I loved it.
Thank you to Canelo and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
October 7, 2020
Thank you to NetGalley, Lilac Mills and Canelo for the ARC of book Holiday in the Hills. This is my personal review.
A book about a writer with writer’s block and her agent decides the best solution is to send her off on an extended vacation to get her back in the mood to write again. Ivy is sent to the fabulous island of Tenerife to make this happen.
The month is to just be Ivy with no TV, no WIFI and most of all no distractions!
The only distraction she has is Sebastian who comes every day to clean the pool.
This gets Ivy back into the writing mood and writing her new novel. She also has a relationship growing with Sebastian- who has many secrets of his own he is keeping.
Grab a comfy chair and enjoy this book!
A book about a writer with writer’s block and her agent decides the best solution is to send her off on an extended vacation to get her back in the mood to write again. Ivy is sent to the fabulous island of Tenerife to make this happen.
The month is to just be Ivy with no TV, no WIFI and most of all no distractions!
The only distraction she has is Sebastian who comes every day to clean the pool.
This gets Ivy back into the writing mood and writing her new novel. She also has a relationship growing with Sebastian- who has many secrets of his own he is keeping.
Grab a comfy chair and enjoy this book!
October 23, 2025
Another Great Lilac Mills read 📚 5🌟.
How do you write a romance novel with a broken heart ?
After a disastrous romantic affair with her (now ex-) publisher , Ivy is suffering from writer’s block. Her agent suggests an extended holiday on the gorgeous island of Tenerife to get her writing career back on track. No WiFi , no TV, no distractions. Except for the very attractive Sebastian who comes by every day to clean the pool .
Soon, Ivy’s creative juices are flowing and her relationship with Sebastian is growing into something more, despite the secrets he’s keeping. But her ex isn’t done with her - professionally or personally . And with Sebastian hiding something from Ivy, it seems like her holiday is officially over …
How do you write a romance novel with a broken heart ?
After a disastrous romantic affair with her (now ex-) publisher , Ivy is suffering from writer’s block. Her agent suggests an extended holiday on the gorgeous island of Tenerife to get her writing career back on track. No WiFi , no TV, no distractions. Except for the very attractive Sebastian who comes by every day to clean the pool .
Soon, Ivy’s creative juices are flowing and her relationship with Sebastian is growing into something more, despite the secrets he’s keeping. But her ex isn’t done with her - professionally or personally . And with Sebastian hiding something from Ivy, it seems like her holiday is officially over …
Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews