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Natale ad Amsterdam
La vita di Iris Greene non è mai andata meglio. Ha un lavoro, una bella casa appena ristrutturata, ed è convinta che il suo ragazzo Will stia per farle una proposta di matrimonio... Tutte le sue certezze si frantumano in pochi secondi, quando Will le propone di seguirlo ad Amsterdam, dove ha appena ricevuto un’offerta di lavoro allettante. Trasferirsi in Olanda era l’ultima cosa che Iris si sarebbe immaginata di fare, ma, tentata da una nuova avventura, decide di fidarsi e accetta di partire con lui. La vivace bellezza di Amsterdam non la delude. L’arte, le passeggiate lungo i canali e nuove, bizzarre amicizie si rivelano l’incoraggiamento perfetto per cominciare a sentirsi di nuovo a casa. Per Will, invece, le cose vanno diversamente. Oltre a non condividere l’entusiasmo di Iris, sembra aver perso l’ottimismo nei confronti del loro recente cambio di vita. E ben presto Iris deve fare i conti con una domanda martellante che inizia a tormentarla: è giusto sacrificare i propri desideri per la felicità di qualcun altro?
224 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2020
306 people are currently reading
276 people want to read
About the author
Kate Frost
30 books202 followersKate Frost has wanted to be an author ever since she wrote her first novel during the long months she spent off school following open heart surgery when she was seven. The novel was called London's Burning and was a time travel story set during the Great Fire of London.
Over the years Kate has worked in a cinema, a bookshop, a factory and as a part time lecturer at Bath Spa University teaching lifewriting to Creative Writing undergraduates. She's also worked as ground staff at Edgebaston Tennis Tournament, as a Virgin Vie consultant and as a Supporting Artist in the films Vanity Fair, King Arthur and The Duchess.
Kate has a MA in Creative Writing from Bath Spa University and has had articles and short stories published in The London Magazine, New Welsh Review and QWF. She now works as a freelance writer/author and lives in the UK with her husband, her son and their dog.
Over the years Kate has worked in a cinema, a bookshop, a factory and as a part time lecturer at Bath Spa University teaching lifewriting to Creative Writing undergraduates. She's also worked as ground staff at Edgebaston Tennis Tournament, as a Virgin Vie consultant and as a Supporting Artist in the films Vanity Fair, King Arthur and The Duchess.
Kate has a MA in Creative Writing from Bath Spa University and has had articles and short stories published in The London Magazine, New Welsh Review and QWF. She now works as a freelance writer/author and lives in the UK with her husband, her son and their dog.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
January 7, 2023
I really liked the descriptions of Amsterdam that came along with a good story about Iris and Bram falling in love.
Iris lives in the UK with her handsome, successful boyfriend Will. They’ve just finished decorating the house they bought together when Will announces that he’s accepted a promotion with a job in Amsterdam and expects Iris to come along, too. Iris goes, reluctantly. She wanted a proposal, not a home in a new country.
She gets to know Amsterdam while Will is at work. She also takes a job in a coffee shop to fill up time since she left her job behind. As she gets to know the people and the city she finds she really loves Amsterdam in spite of being so angry with Will that he completely changed their lives without consulting her first. She also finds herself rediscovering her passion for creating art and making friends with an actor named Bram.
Iris slowly realizes her life with Will in the UK wasn’t really what she wanted and starts to wonder if she and Will are right for each other.
I read this over Christmas vacation and it was perfect to read with a cozy blanket by the fire.
Iris lives in the UK with her handsome, successful boyfriend Will. They’ve just finished decorating the house they bought together when Will announces that he’s accepted a promotion with a job in Amsterdam and expects Iris to come along, too. Iris goes, reluctantly. She wanted a proposal, not a home in a new country.
She gets to know Amsterdam while Will is at work. She also takes a job in a coffee shop to fill up time since she left her job behind. As she gets to know the people and the city she finds she really loves Amsterdam in spite of being so angry with Will that he completely changed their lives without consulting her first. She also finds herself rediscovering her passion for creating art and making friends with an actor named Bram.
Iris slowly realizes her life with Will in the UK wasn’t really what she wanted and starts to wonder if she and Will are right for each other.
I read this over Christmas vacation and it was perfect to read with a cozy blanket by the fire.
October 10, 2021
I thoroughly enjoyed this story which I read over the course of an evening. I found it to be a lovely and easy read, which completely transported me into the life of Iris, and her time in Amsterdam.
Not that Amsterdam was her choice, her inconsiderate boyfriend decided they were moving their for a year for his job, and well that is the first warning sign I hate about the boyfriend!
I loved seeing Amsterdam through Iris's eyes as she starts to get into a groove with this new country and life, and between a part time job, new friends and becoming inspired to start creating again, it was wonderful to see Iris really blossom.
It was obvious to me at least that she may have fallen in love during the course of the book, and I'm not necessarily meaning with a person!
This was about finding yourself, and really having the confidence in order to change your life and your destiny. It's a story of new friendships, of discovering Amsterdam and generally one that I thoroughly enjoyed reading.
It's another star attraction in the Romantic Escapes series, all of which can easily be read as standalone as the only they they have in common is romances playing out in gorgeous locations. I still have one of these to read, but the four I've devoured so far have all been wonderful in their own ways.
A book and a series to definitely give a go to, especially if you love armchair travel with romance!
Thank you to the author for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
March 3, 2021
I love Kate Frost's Romantic Escape series, and this one is just as beautifully descriptive as the others. I've never been to Amsterdam, but I could easily visualise the colourful houses and myriad of canals from Kate's writing.
Iris, the protagonist, has a good life. She lives with her partner Will in a house they have just finished renovating, and has a well-paid career. So when Will says he has a surprise for her, the last thing she's expecting is a move to Amsterdam!
While Iris takes advantage of the situation to immerse herself in the sights and beauty of Amsterdam and rekindle her creative spark, she starts to see another side of Will. I loved the character development of these two, how one grows while the other is bound by petty jealousies and selfishness.
Beautifully written, this is a more than a story of self-discovery. It also shows the subtle warning signs of abuse, of how easy it is to lose your identity while trying to fit in and please others, of how sometimes you should trust your instincts and follow them, and live the life you want. A wonderful, heartwarming story that I highly recommend!
Iris, the protagonist, has a good life. She lives with her partner Will in a house they have just finished renovating, and has a well-paid career. So when Will says he has a surprise for her, the last thing she's expecting is a move to Amsterdam!
While Iris takes advantage of the situation to immerse herself in the sights and beauty of Amsterdam and rekindle her creative spark, she starts to see another side of Will. I loved the character development of these two, how one grows while the other is bound by petty jealousies and selfishness.
Beautifully written, this is a more than a story of self-discovery. It also shows the subtle warning signs of abuse, of how easy it is to lose your identity while trying to fit in and please others, of how sometimes you should trust your instincts and follow them, and live the life you want. A wonderful, heartwarming story that I highly recommend!
January 9, 2023
Recensione presente nel blog www.ragazzainrosso.wordpress.com
2.5 stelline
Iris Green vive a York, lavora come personal assistant ed è felicemente legata a Will. Quando l’uomo le chiede di vedersi presso un ristorante esclusivo, Iris è convinta che stia per farle la proposta di matrimonio, invece Will le sta comunicando di aver accettato una proposta di lavoro ad Amsterdam. Iris non vuole lasciare la sua vita nonostante non ami particolarmente il suo lavoro, ma per amore di Will dà le dimissioni e lo segue. Immediatamente la capitale dell’Olanda la conquista e man mano che ci si avvicina al Natale Iris sente sempre più forte la spinta a credere ancora in se stessa e in quei sogni che aveva abbandonato da tempo. Per Will, invece, le cose non vanno poi così bene tanto che l’uomo è pronto a tornare indietro. È giusto sacrificare se stessi per la felicità altrui?
“Sono rimasta bloccata troppo a lungo, dal mio lavoro e da me stessa, credendo di volere la vita perfetta, una casa, un marito, una famiglia. Soldi. Non ho mai avuto il coraggio di rischiare e pensare a me, a ciò che mi rendeva davvero felice”.
Quando tutto sembra andare per il meglio ecco che un evento inaspettato sconvolge l’esistenza di una persona che ha raggiunto la felicità. È quello che accade a Iris Green, la quale da un momento all’altro si ritrova ad abbandonare la sua terra, la sua famiglia, il lavoro per amore. La domanda, a questo punto, sorge spontanea: fino a dove è lecito spingersi per amore? Iris mette da parte se stessa e accetta di ricominciare lontano, in un posto ignoto, dove sarà Will ad avere successo e non lei.
La città di Amsterdam addobbata a festa con le sue tradizioni, luminarie e mercatini, si rivela essere protagonista del romanzo a tutti gli effetti. I luoghi sono ben descritti, non solo le celebri mete turistiche ma anche le vie della quotidianità, quelle strade che Iris percorre giorno dopo giorno, dove incontra gente e trova i giusti stimoli per riaprire un capitolo della sua vita che credeva ormai chiuso per sempre.
Man mano che la lettura procede ci si ritrova dinanzi all’evoluzione della protagonista che da “succube” diviene artefice e prende in mano le redini della sua vita.
Lo stile della prosa pur nella sua semplicità, non risulta particolarmente scorrevole, personalmente in alcuni momenti l’ho trovata un po’ ripetitiva e quindi meno coinvolgente. Sicuramente riesce a infondere lo spirito natalizio, ma per il lettore risulta molto spesso difficile empatizzare con la protagonista.
Un romanzo incentrato sull’importanza dell’amore per se stessi. Una lettura che, al di là dello sviluppo narrativo, vi farà venire voglia di trascorrere le giornate festive nei Paesi Bassi.
2.5 stelline
Iris Green vive a York, lavora come personal assistant ed è felicemente legata a Will. Quando l’uomo le chiede di vedersi presso un ristorante esclusivo, Iris è convinta che stia per farle la proposta di matrimonio, invece Will le sta comunicando di aver accettato una proposta di lavoro ad Amsterdam. Iris non vuole lasciare la sua vita nonostante non ami particolarmente il suo lavoro, ma per amore di Will dà le dimissioni e lo segue. Immediatamente la capitale dell’Olanda la conquista e man mano che ci si avvicina al Natale Iris sente sempre più forte la spinta a credere ancora in se stessa e in quei sogni che aveva abbandonato da tempo. Per Will, invece, le cose non vanno poi così bene tanto che l’uomo è pronto a tornare indietro. È giusto sacrificare se stessi per la felicità altrui?
“Sono rimasta bloccata troppo a lungo, dal mio lavoro e da me stessa, credendo di volere la vita perfetta, una casa, un marito, una famiglia. Soldi. Non ho mai avuto il coraggio di rischiare e pensare a me, a ciò che mi rendeva davvero felice”.
Quando tutto sembra andare per il meglio ecco che un evento inaspettato sconvolge l’esistenza di una persona che ha raggiunto la felicità. È quello che accade a Iris Green, la quale da un momento all’altro si ritrova ad abbandonare la sua terra, la sua famiglia, il lavoro per amore. La domanda, a questo punto, sorge spontanea: fino a dove è lecito spingersi per amore? Iris mette da parte se stessa e accetta di ricominciare lontano, in un posto ignoto, dove sarà Will ad avere successo e non lei.
La città di Amsterdam addobbata a festa con le sue tradizioni, luminarie e mercatini, si rivela essere protagonista del romanzo a tutti gli effetti. I luoghi sono ben descritti, non solo le celebri mete turistiche ma anche le vie della quotidianità, quelle strade che Iris percorre giorno dopo giorno, dove incontra gente e trova i giusti stimoli per riaprire un capitolo della sua vita che credeva ormai chiuso per sempre.
Man mano che la lettura procede ci si ritrova dinanzi all’evoluzione della protagonista che da “succube” diviene artefice e prende in mano le redini della sua vita.
Lo stile della prosa pur nella sua semplicità, non risulta particolarmente scorrevole, personalmente in alcuni momenti l’ho trovata un po’ ripetitiva e quindi meno coinvolgente. Sicuramente riesce a infondere lo spirito natalizio, ma per il lettore risulta molto spesso difficile empatizzare con la protagonista.
Un romanzo incentrato sull’importanza dell’amore per se stessi. Una lettura che, al di là dello sviluppo narrativo, vi farà venire voglia di trascorrere le giornate festive nei Paesi Bassi.
November 19, 2021
When Will arranges a night out at their favourite restaurant with a cryptic message about something important, it takes mere milliseconds for Iris to presume he’s about to propose. And why wouldn’t he? They’ve been together seven years.
Needless to say, Will’s important news is something entirely different, something that he has chosen to do unilaterally with not a second thought for how Iris might feel. (Can you hear the warning bells?) Even so, it’s the chance of a lifetime for him to accept a job promotion to the Amsterdam branch of his firm. It comes complete with paid accommodation and Iris won’t even have to get a job. (Yeah, Will, cos Iris really does want to spend a year doing nothing in a foreign country, far from her friends and family while you trot off to work everyday as normal!) Still, Iris being Iris goes along with it, she doesn’t like her current job anyway so maybe this will give her time to sort out what she really wants to do with her life.
Their new apartment is wonderful, the scenery is stunning but there’s something missing … Yes, Will. He’s working all hours while Iris has to get to know Amsterdam by herself. Even at the weekends, she plans things that he’ll like because he’s not into all her arty stuff. Still, Will’s happy, isn’t he?
Taking regular walks, Iris starts to bump into the same people, nods hello and begins to feel more settled, even taking to her sketch book once again. But she’s getting a little bored of being on her own, so when the opportunity of a part-time job in her favourite café is advertised, she is quick to apply. And she gets it. This is her lifeline as she meets more people and is inspired to create more. Having giving up on her creative streak years before to get a job that would pay her bills, she’s loving the time and attention she can now devote to her artwork. The idea of making a living from it now seems more likely.
Will, however, is a little taken aback that she didn’t mention her coffee shop job to him (pot – kettle – black!) But, other than that, he’s happy. Isn’t he? Well, it turns out he’s not and he’s decided to leave his Amsterdam job early and return to the UK, once again without a word to Iris. But he wasn’t banking on Iris’s response. This time, she puts her foot down and stays until the flight they’d originally booked for Christmas arrives. Yay! Go Iris!
Can she survive on her own? Yes, she can …in fact she thrives. Which is why, when she does finally return to the UK for the Christmas holidays, she has a big decision to make. And I’m saying nothing more on the subject. Read the book; it’s delightful, Amsterdam is a marvel, and find out if Iris gets to live the life she deserves.
The Amsterdam Affair will draw you in like a mug of hot chocolate on a Winter’s evening, it will captivate you to the extent that you’ll never want to leave. I loved the ending, loved the characters in Amsterdam, loved the Christmassyness of the story.
I’ll slip in my bugbear here – and that was the use of “her” instead of “she” which cropped up so often, jarring my attention. Her and Will did this, her and Kelly did that. Not for me, that bit.
However, everything else made for a magical read. I love stories where people take risks, explore other countries and cultures. Anyway, I declare this a perfect read for the festive season. Enjoy!
Needless to say, Will’s important news is something entirely different, something that he has chosen to do unilaterally with not a second thought for how Iris might feel. (Can you hear the warning bells?) Even so, it’s the chance of a lifetime for him to accept a job promotion to the Amsterdam branch of his firm. It comes complete with paid accommodation and Iris won’t even have to get a job. (Yeah, Will, cos Iris really does want to spend a year doing nothing in a foreign country, far from her friends and family while you trot off to work everyday as normal!) Still, Iris being Iris goes along with it, she doesn’t like her current job anyway so maybe this will give her time to sort out what she really wants to do with her life.
Their new apartment is wonderful, the scenery is stunning but there’s something missing … Yes, Will. He’s working all hours while Iris has to get to know Amsterdam by herself. Even at the weekends, she plans things that he’ll like because he’s not into all her arty stuff. Still, Will’s happy, isn’t he?
Taking regular walks, Iris starts to bump into the same people, nods hello and begins to feel more settled, even taking to her sketch book once again. But she’s getting a little bored of being on her own, so when the opportunity of a part-time job in her favourite café is advertised, she is quick to apply. And she gets it. This is her lifeline as she meets more people and is inspired to create more. Having giving up on her creative streak years before to get a job that would pay her bills, she’s loving the time and attention she can now devote to her artwork. The idea of making a living from it now seems more likely.
Will, however, is a little taken aback that she didn’t mention her coffee shop job to him (pot – kettle – black!) But, other than that, he’s happy. Isn’t he? Well, it turns out he’s not and he’s decided to leave his Amsterdam job early and return to the UK, once again without a word to Iris. But he wasn’t banking on Iris’s response. This time, she puts her foot down and stays until the flight they’d originally booked for Christmas arrives. Yay! Go Iris!
Can she survive on her own? Yes, she can …in fact she thrives. Which is why, when she does finally return to the UK for the Christmas holidays, she has a big decision to make. And I’m saying nothing more on the subject. Read the book; it’s delightful, Amsterdam is a marvel, and find out if Iris gets to live the life she deserves.
The Amsterdam Affair will draw you in like a mug of hot chocolate on a Winter’s evening, it will captivate you to the extent that you’ll never want to leave. I loved the ending, loved the characters in Amsterdam, loved the Christmassyness of the story.
I’ll slip in my bugbear here – and that was the use of “her” instead of “she” which cropped up so often, jarring my attention. Her and Will did this, her and Kelly did that. Not for me, that bit.
However, everything else made for a magical read. I love stories where people take risks, explore other countries and cultures. Anyway, I declare this a perfect read for the festive season. Enjoy!
January 5, 2023
Mi è piaciuto. Molto semplice, facile da leggere, bella storia, esattamente quello che cercavo per le feste di Natale. Non un capolavoro, ma libro leggero e divertente. L’atmosfera di Amsterdam poi rende tutto più magico
December 29, 2022
Carino, scorrevole.
Lei un po’ lamentosa ed alle volte un po’ ripetitiva.
Le descrizioni di Amsterdam, però, sono da togliere il fiato.
Un libro che tiene compagnia e fa vivere una nuova città senza spostarsi dal divano.
Il titolo, però, non è del tutto preciso, sarebbe dovuto essere “capodanno ad Amsterdam” anziché Natale 😅
Lei un po’ lamentosa ed alle volte un po’ ripetitiva.
Le descrizioni di Amsterdam, però, sono da togliere il fiato.
Un libro che tiene compagnia e fa vivere una nuova città senza spostarsi dal divano.
Il titolo, però, non è del tutto preciso, sarebbe dovuto essere “capodanno ad Amsterdam” anziché Natale 😅
January 9, 2021
It was lovely to be drawn into beautiful Amsterdam. How well the author pictured the city. It was so good to read not just a typical 'romcom' but a book that faced the reality of career choices, of a controlling partner, and to get a glimpse of the art of silk printing.
The one thing I was surprised at was the lack of grammatical editing. So many times a phrase such as 'Her and Kelly went off for the day' appeared in the story. Not just once.
Apart from that it was a book I enjoyed reading, mainly due to the setting.
The one thing I was surprised at was the lack of grammatical editing. So many times a phrase such as 'Her and Kelly went off for the day' appeared in the story. Not just once.
Apart from that it was a book I enjoyed reading, mainly due to the setting.
November 17, 2022
PREVEDIBILE MA GRADEVOLE
"Ad Amsterdam la creatività sembrava scorrere a fiumi e stava contagiando anche lei."
Scorrevole e ben scritto, con personaggi non eccessivamente stereotipati nonostante la trama super prevedibile, "Natale ad Amsterdam" è il romanzo perfetto per immergersi nell'atmosfera della città olandese. Un chick-lit senza troppe pretese, ma comunque gradevole e utile per riflettere sulle dinamiche di coppia.
"Ad Amsterdam la creatività sembrava scorrere a fiumi e stava contagiando anche lei."
Scorrevole e ben scritto, con personaggi non eccessivamente stereotipati nonostante la trama super prevedibile, "Natale ad Amsterdam" è il romanzo perfetto per immergersi nell'atmosfera della città olandese. Un chick-lit senza troppe pretese, ma comunque gradevole e utile per riflettere sulle dinamiche di coppia.
November 15, 2020
Her life had been shaken up like a snow globe
This book is about Iris. She has been in a relationship with Will for almost seven years. He surprisingly and uncharacteristically sends a bouquet of flowers to her workplace, with a cryptic message about meeting him at their favourite restaurant that night. Iris and her friend are practically convinced that the invitation is for the long-awaited marriage proposal.
But, she was wrong. Will was offered a job in Amsterdam, and he accepted it, without talking to Iris first. She’s shocked by his decision and lack of consultation with her, but being the dutiful and devoted girlfriend that she is, supports his decision. She resigns from her job (which she didn’t really love anyway), packs up their newly-renovated dream home, and fills suitcases with the belongings they’ll take with them abroad.
Some of the concerns Iris had were allayed once Chloe (from the HR department of Will’s company) showed them around their fancy apartment. It’s just what she needed. All she has to do now to feel more comfortable in Amsterdam, is to get a good lay of the land, make some friends, and get a job, or at least find an authentic, personal sense of purpose. She will get all that in droves, including meeting a handsome stranger on a bridge. The possibilities are wonderful!
There are so many ups and downs, with heart-breaking and heart-warming moments, and plenty of angst (on my part) aimed at Will. He was such an obnoxious twat! He was arrogant, and lacked any kind of real respect for Iris. She put up with so much of his cr@p – until she didn’t. I yippee-ed and hooray-ed out-loud when she finally started sticking up for herself! Iris was ALWAYS worth so much more than him!
I fell in love with the idea of bring Iris, being out of her comfort zone in a foreign country (LOVE that!). I fell in love with her burgeoning relationship with Bram, and him and his family, and the way they brought her into their fold. SWOON! I loved her friendships – new and old. And I totally fell in love with Amsterdam! The place has always been on my ‘to-go-to’ list, but this book cemented that desire tenfold (at least).
Basically, I am living vicariously through these characters as they get to TRAVEL overseas! I am jealous. I am envious. BUT, I wasn’t ready for this book to end, and I was hoping there would be ‘more’ to their story. I’d also like to know what happens next for all of the characters in the story. I felt like I was a part of their journey. I give this book four and a half scenic stars!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is about Iris. She has been in a relationship with Will for almost seven years. He surprisingly and uncharacteristically sends a bouquet of flowers to her workplace, with a cryptic message about meeting him at their favourite restaurant that night. Iris and her friend are practically convinced that the invitation is for the long-awaited marriage proposal.
But, she was wrong. Will was offered a job in Amsterdam, and he accepted it, without talking to Iris first. She’s shocked by his decision and lack of consultation with her, but being the dutiful and devoted girlfriend that she is, supports his decision. She resigns from her job (which she didn’t really love anyway), packs up their newly-renovated dream home, and fills suitcases with the belongings they’ll take with them abroad.
Some of the concerns Iris had were allayed once Chloe (from the HR department of Will’s company) showed them around their fancy apartment. It’s just what she needed. All she has to do now to feel more comfortable in Amsterdam, is to get a good lay of the land, make some friends, and get a job, or at least find an authentic, personal sense of purpose. She will get all that in droves, including meeting a handsome stranger on a bridge. The possibilities are wonderful!
There are so many ups and downs, with heart-breaking and heart-warming moments, and plenty of angst (on my part) aimed at Will. He was such an obnoxious twat! He was arrogant, and lacked any kind of real respect for Iris. She put up with so much of his cr@p – until she didn’t. I yippee-ed and hooray-ed out-loud when she finally started sticking up for herself! Iris was ALWAYS worth so much more than him!
I fell in love with the idea of bring Iris, being out of her comfort zone in a foreign country (LOVE that!). I fell in love with her burgeoning relationship with Bram, and him and his family, and the way they brought her into their fold. SWOON! I loved her friendships – new and old. And I totally fell in love with Amsterdam! The place has always been on my ‘to-go-to’ list, but this book cemented that desire tenfold (at least).
Basically, I am living vicariously through these characters as they get to TRAVEL overseas! I am jealous. I am envious. BUT, I wasn’t ready for this book to end, and I was hoping there would be ‘more’ to their story. I’d also like to know what happens next for all of the characters in the story. I felt like I was a part of their journey. I give this book four and a half scenic stars!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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November 15, 2021I quite enjoyed this book about a woman learning that she wants more out of life than she has previously let herself believe.
Iris has been with her boyfriend for six years. They've bought a house together. She thinks the next step is marriage and children. (Ok, sidebar. Seriously, six years? Honey, he isn't going to marry you. I would really like to convince a person I know in real life that this is true. It is frustrating to read about it in books too.)
Anyway, he announces that they are moving from York to Amsterdam in a few weeks. This is the first she's heard of it. After she uproots her life to move, she is shocked to find that she is thriving in a new country. This doesn't particularly go over well with her boyfriend.
Iris's boyfriend is delightfully horrible. That's delightful to read about - not to live with. There's no expectation that she's going to be better off with him so the reader is free to see how she manages her life now that it is taking some unexpected turns.
This is a good book to curl up with read. It takes place mostly around Christmas. It brings the holiday season in The Netherlands into the story well. There are winter markets, parades, cafes, and ice skating to get you into the winter spirit.
This review was originally posted on Based On A True Story
November 14, 2022
Two and a half stars. I've shelved this under 'romance' because that's how it's marketed, but .
Oh well. Quick read, and seasonally appropriate, and I don't see a lot of books set in modern-day Amsterdam. So there's that!
Oh well. Quick read, and seasonally appropriate, and I don't see a lot of books set in modern-day Amsterdam. So there's that!
December 6, 2020
The Amsterdam Affair, the newest book from Kate Frost is a beautiful and uplifting story of following your heart and never giving up your dreams. It is set in a beautiful scenery of wintertime Amsterdam and, as the time of events encompasses mostly the moments around Christmas and New Year’s Eve, I think it might be a perfect, cosy read just for now!
I loved the story of Iris whose unwanted stay in Amsterdam turned out to be an eye-opening journey, which gave her the insight into herself and made her think about herself a bit more than she was used to, and finally, to let her long-buried dreams and passions speak. It is also a story of love – love for a man but also love for the city!
Iris lives in England in a bubble, which to her family and friends appears to be a dream like life, in a dream-like relationship – she and her handsome and neat boyfriend both have good jobs, move to the house of their dreams, plan future together… until their life takes an unexpected, at least for Iris, course, leading them both to Amsterdam. What happened in Amsterdam? Obviously I will not tell you this – you need to find out yourselves - which I highly recommend you to do on one of the December evenings.
I can only add that Kate Frost is a very skilful writer, her characters are well developed and settings described in a way that makes you want to visit the places and get to know the characters. Especially one Dutch family depicted in this book – I really felt I could easily celebrate the New Year’s Eve with them! 😊
I definitely recommend The Amsterdam Affair, as well as other books by Kate Frost to you!
I loved the story of Iris whose unwanted stay in Amsterdam turned out to be an eye-opening journey, which gave her the insight into herself and made her think about herself a bit more than she was used to, and finally, to let her long-buried dreams and passions speak. It is also a story of love – love for a man but also love for the city!
Iris lives in England in a bubble, which to her family and friends appears to be a dream like life, in a dream-like relationship – she and her handsome and neat boyfriend both have good jobs, move to the house of their dreams, plan future together… until their life takes an unexpected, at least for Iris, course, leading them both to Amsterdam. What happened in Amsterdam? Obviously I will not tell you this – you need to find out yourselves - which I highly recommend you to do on one of the December evenings.
I can only add that Kate Frost is a very skilful writer, her characters are well developed and settings described in a way that makes you want to visit the places and get to know the characters. Especially one Dutch family depicted in this book – I really felt I could easily celebrate the New Year’s Eve with them! 😊
I definitely recommend The Amsterdam Affair, as well as other books by Kate Frost to you!
November 16, 2021
If you are looking for a heartwarming, romantic, tale of personal growth, love, and new beginnings, this is the book for you!
The Amsterdam Affair is the 4th book in the "A Romantic Escape" series, and admittingly, I hadn't read any until now. However, this is not problematic as the series can be read in any order, making this just as good as a standalone.
Kate Frost has created a very likable and relatable character in Iris, and this may have only been a little over 200 pages, it is still full of wonderful descriptive scene-setting, which is a classic definition for the word "escapism." There was nothing left to the imagination as this author has clearly done her research. The writing style is spot on, the pace was flawless, making this easy to follow. I finished this within two sittings, as it drew me in from the very beginning, and kept me engaged throughout.
I can confirm that I am now a fan of both Kate Frost and the Romantic escape novels! I will be going back and reading all of these, and I am particularly looking forward to reading "The Love Island Bookshop" by the same author.
This is a great book that takes the reader away from life for a while, without leaving our seat! Highly recommended reading.
Thank you Rachel's Random Resources for a gifted copy of this book and a place on the recent book tour. This review is based on my own opinions and has been left voluntarily.
The Amsterdam Affair is the 4th book in the "A Romantic Escape" series, and admittingly, I hadn't read any until now. However, this is not problematic as the series can be read in any order, making this just as good as a standalone.
Kate Frost has created a very likable and relatable character in Iris, and this may have only been a little over 200 pages, it is still full of wonderful descriptive scene-setting, which is a classic definition for the word "escapism." There was nothing left to the imagination as this author has clearly done her research. The writing style is spot on, the pace was flawless, making this easy to follow. I finished this within two sittings, as it drew me in from the very beginning, and kept me engaged throughout.
I can confirm that I am now a fan of both Kate Frost and the Romantic escape novels! I will be going back and reading all of these, and I am particularly looking forward to reading "The Love Island Bookshop" by the same author.
This is a great book that takes the reader away from life for a while, without leaving our seat! Highly recommended reading.
Thank you Rachel's Random Resources for a gifted copy of this book and a place on the recent book tour. This review is based on my own opinions and has been left voluntarily.
July 12, 2021
Iris has the almost perfect life - a handsome boyfriend, a well paid job and a newly renovated new home. All she needs now is a proposal and life will be complete. She doesn't get that; instead her boyfriend announces they are moving to Amsterdam for a year for his work and she reluctantly goes along with it.
The strength of this book is the author's beautiful and colourful description of Amsterdam. Having never been, I had to rely on her painting it for me to imagine, and she does that so well (Amsterdam at Christmas is on my bucket list now). It's easy to understand why Iris falls in love with the city and she is a character that you cannot help but root for. She goes through something of a metamorphosis, triggered by the move and I loved that.
I found some of the writing a bit unlikely; the heart to heart conversations that Iris has with people she has only just met for one thing - maybe that does happen to some people in real life but I found it a bit much. Nevertheless, I read it in one day and couldn't wait to see if she got her happy ending.
It's a feel-good book, easy to read and should be used by the Netherlands tourist information as you will most probably fall in love with the city as well.
The strength of this book is the author's beautiful and colourful description of Amsterdam. Having never been, I had to rely on her painting it for me to imagine, and she does that so well (Amsterdam at Christmas is on my bucket list now). It's easy to understand why Iris falls in love with the city and she is a character that you cannot help but root for. She goes through something of a metamorphosis, triggered by the move and I loved that.
I found some of the writing a bit unlikely; the heart to heart conversations that Iris has with people she has only just met for one thing - maybe that does happen to some people in real life but I found it a bit much. Nevertheless, I read it in one day and couldn't wait to see if she got her happy ending.
It's a feel-good book, easy to read and should be used by the Netherlands tourist information as you will most probably fall in love with the city as well.
January 2, 2021
Magical holiday read
Boyfriend Will springs a surprise on Iris, but not the offer of marriage she was expecting. Will has decided to accept a job in Amsterdam, uprooting the life he and Iris have built together in York. Iris reluctantly agrees to the move, but is annoyed that Will did not think to consult her.
Once in Amsterdam, Iris is seduced by the beauty and creative vibe of the city. While Will flounders in his job, Iris discovers a renewed zest for life, a part-time job and new friends.
Right before Christmas, Will declares he has had enough and is returning to England, and Iris is torn. She hasn’t felt this alive in years, and now she has a decision to make.
This is the third book I’ve read by Kate Frost, and I was thrilled by this Christmas/New Year story. The author so beautifully describes Amsterdam - a city I have not visited - that I now feel I have been there. Lush descriptions of winter weather, the warm, inviting Amsterdam apartments, and enticing food I remember from my time at a Dutch school as a child. A wonderful story that reminds us to nurture our passion, and to have the courage to pursue our dreams. Highly recommended.
Boyfriend Will springs a surprise on Iris, but not the offer of marriage she was expecting. Will has decided to accept a job in Amsterdam, uprooting the life he and Iris have built together in York. Iris reluctantly agrees to the move, but is annoyed that Will did not think to consult her.
Once in Amsterdam, Iris is seduced by the beauty and creative vibe of the city. While Will flounders in his job, Iris discovers a renewed zest for life, a part-time job and new friends.
Right before Christmas, Will declares he has had enough and is returning to England, and Iris is torn. She hasn’t felt this alive in years, and now she has a decision to make.
This is the third book I’ve read by Kate Frost, and I was thrilled by this Christmas/New Year story. The author so beautifully describes Amsterdam - a city I have not visited - that I now feel I have been there. Lush descriptions of winter weather, the warm, inviting Amsterdam apartments, and enticing food I remember from my time at a Dutch school as a child. A wonderful story that reminds us to nurture our passion, and to have the courage to pursue our dreams. Highly recommended.
November 21, 2021
If there was ever a romance novel I would want to star in, it’s this one! Not only does this book take me back to one of my favorite cities I have ever worked in, but it also combines Christmas with it and ends in love! But I digress
Iris Greene works in a job that she hates, to have the life she thinks she has always wanted with her boyfriend Will, and after receiving flowers with a card from him, inviting her to dinner at a bistro, Iris thought that he was going to propose…. But nothing went as expected, and instead of a ring, Iris's whole life changed, when Will informed her that he had taken a job in Amsterdam and now they were moving.
Despite Iris's resistance to moving to Amsterdam, once there Iris fell in love with the city and began to make friends, and for the first time in a long time, Iris felt truly happy! And not with her rose-colored glasses clouding her judgment, she starts to see Will for who he truly is…
The Amsterdam Affair is a truly outstanding book, that gave me that Christmas joy and love that I had been missing for so long.
Iris Greene works in a job that she hates, to have the life she thinks she has always wanted with her boyfriend Will, and after receiving flowers with a card from him, inviting her to dinner at a bistro, Iris thought that he was going to propose…. But nothing went as expected, and instead of a ring, Iris's whole life changed, when Will informed her that he had taken a job in Amsterdam and now they were moving.
Despite Iris's resistance to moving to Amsterdam, once there Iris fell in love with the city and began to make friends, and for the first time in a long time, Iris felt truly happy! And not with her rose-colored glasses clouding her judgment, she starts to see Will for who he truly is…
The Amsterdam Affair is a truly outstanding book, that gave me that Christmas joy and love that I had been missing for so long.
January 30, 2023
I ended up skimming this one after maybe the halfway point. I'm definitely in the minority on this one but I ultimately found Iris's endless internal monologue to be exhausting and repetitive: her boyfriend's decision to move them to Amsterdam without involving her, her lackluster career, her unrealized artistic goals, her apparent obsession with fixing up their house in York etc etc. It felt like the book just sort of dragged on.
Her boyfriend ended up being almost a caricature villain - he seems to have had no redeeming qualities and his character got worse and worse as the story went on. Not only did he unilaterally decide to move them to Amsterdam for a year, he also was a condescending prat about her art and generally ignored her in Amsterdam and then got annoyed when she started to build a life, as if he expected her to just mark time while he built a career and connections.
As if that's not bad enough, he .
Her boyfriend ended up being almost a caricature villain - he seems to have had no redeeming qualities and his character got worse and worse as the story went on. Not only did he unilaterally decide to move them to Amsterdam for a year, he also was a condescending prat about her art and generally ignored her in Amsterdam and then got annoyed when she started to build a life, as if he expected her to just mark time while he built a career and connections.
As if that's not bad enough, he .
November 15, 2020
A truly stunning book, totally unputdownable!!
I loved everything about this book, was pulled right into it from the very start and rooting for Iris all the way. The fabulously descriptive language meant I could visualise everything so clearly, it really deserves to be made into a film. That I finished it in 4 days, when I'm usually a 2-3 weeks per book kinda girl, is testament to how much I adored reading it.
The storyline is so well woven and satisfyingly concluded at the end. It brought back memories of my own time living overseas and the anticipation of seeing where you'll be living for the first time as well as all the challenges and wonderful experiences that it brought - including a white Christmas!
It was a marvellous coincidence that I was reading about the new years eve fireworks in Amsterdam on the night of Diwali, so had real life fireworks going off all around me - sometimes things are just meant to be ❤️
I loved everything about this book, was pulled right into it from the very start and rooting for Iris all the way. The fabulously descriptive language meant I could visualise everything so clearly, it really deserves to be made into a film. That I finished it in 4 days, when I'm usually a 2-3 weeks per book kinda girl, is testament to how much I adored reading it.
The storyline is so well woven and satisfyingly concluded at the end. It brought back memories of my own time living overseas and the anticipation of seeing where you'll be living for the first time as well as all the challenges and wonderful experiences that it brought - including a white Christmas!
It was a marvellous coincidence that I was reading about the new years eve fireworks in Amsterdam on the night of Diwali, so had real life fireworks going off all around me - sometimes things are just meant to be ❤️
December 3, 2021
Full review:
https://clife.blog/2021/12/01/bookclu...
The beginning of this novel you can understand Iris’s anxiety towards the move. However I feel as if she has brain washed herself to this life with a man she is clearly not as compatible with. Iris and her best friend where discussing the qualities of the man himself but they forgot one important thing, do they get on in terms of their likes and dislikes as a couple. Because even though he is a good chap they didn’t discuss those important qualities.
Later on as I read more I fell in love with the plot because it is about creativity and inspiration which are two things I enjoy reading about and agreed with throughout the novel. Some twists and turns are discovered when we find out what happens. We obviously know she will stay in the new country however it is getting to that conclusion that was exciting.
https://clife.blog/2021/12/01/bookclu...
The beginning of this novel you can understand Iris’s anxiety towards the move. However I feel as if she has brain washed herself to this life with a man she is clearly not as compatible with. Iris and her best friend where discussing the qualities of the man himself but they forgot one important thing, do they get on in terms of their likes and dislikes as a couple. Because even though he is a good chap they didn’t discuss those important qualities.
Later on as I read more I fell in love with the plot because it is about creativity and inspiration which are two things I enjoy reading about and agreed with throughout the novel. Some twists and turns are discovered when we find out what happens. We obviously know she will stay in the new country however it is getting to that conclusion that was exciting.
November 15, 2021
Iris finds her life upturned when her partner of several years accepts his dream job in Amsterdam. The lack of discussion before he accepts this role makes him seem selfish, unlike Iris, who wants to make him happy, even though she has doubts.
Amsterdam proves to be a journey of self-discovery for Iris, as she rediscovers her creativity and finds friends who appreciate her. The story is full of vivid descriptions from Iris'perspective that makes the story entertaining and informative for the reader.
Iris has to choose whether to follow her dreams. Invested in her happiness, you want her to decide wisely. The characters are believably flawed and relatable, the setting immerses you in Iris' adventure, and the story is heartwarming and uplifting to read.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
Amsterdam proves to be a journey of self-discovery for Iris, as she rediscovers her creativity and finds friends who appreciate her. The story is full of vivid descriptions from Iris'perspective that makes the story entertaining and informative for the reader.
Iris has to choose whether to follow her dreams. Invested in her happiness, you want her to decide wisely. The characters are believably flawed and relatable, the setting immerses you in Iris' adventure, and the story is heartwarming and uplifting to read.
I received a copy of this book from the author in return for an honest review.
November 17, 2021
This story captures the festive season beautifully with its descriptions of Amsterdam shining and sparkling in the winter months. You can absolutely understand Iris's reactions at the beginning to Will's news and to her thoughts about the city. There is a strong thread of romance running through the story which is delightful. Iris is a likeable character who develops during the story and rediscovers many of her ambitions and creative spark.
You totally sympathise with Iris in her relationship with Will. She has to decide how far to put her own wishes and desires centre stage and how much she is prepared to have her decisions made for her. Iris also reconsiders her own family relationships with her mother and step-father. This is a gentle read with a real festive feel and escapism.
In short: Starting over and gentle romance
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
You totally sympathise with Iris in her relationship with Will. She has to decide how far to put her own wishes and desires centre stage and how much she is prepared to have her decisions made for her. Iris also reconsiders her own family relationships with her mother and step-father. This is a gentle read with a real festive feel and escapism.
In short: Starting over and gentle romance
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
November 17, 2021
What a corker of a Christmas fairytale, set against the snowy backdrop of Amsterdam you will love spending this Christmas with Iris as she embarks on a new adventure in the approach to Christmas.
A story rich in passion and story of rediscovery and self belief, I loved meeting Iris as she starts to find her feet in Amsterdam after abruptly just relocating with her partner Will.
She is a wonderful example of how we can sometimes lose our way and how we have to be true to ourselves to achieve happiness, even if it means taking a different path to the one we originally had planned.
I loved the characters and the connection she forms with Bram, whilst I instantly disliked Will and his attitude. The author creates a magical atmosphere that feels like a giant hug for the entirety of the book.
A story rich in passion and story of rediscovery and self belief, I loved meeting Iris as she starts to find her feet in Amsterdam after abruptly just relocating with her partner Will.
She is a wonderful example of how we can sometimes lose our way and how we have to be true to ourselves to achieve happiness, even if it means taking a different path to the one we originally had planned.
I loved the characters and the connection she forms with Bram, whilst I instantly disliked Will and his attitude. The author creates a magical atmosphere that feels like a giant hug for the entirety of the book.
November 17, 2021
A lovely read.....
How many people get the opportunity to move countries with their job? Would you follow the person you loved? Iris did.....following her boyfriend of 7 years to Amsterdam. She is sceptical at first, but once there she becomes alive and lives life to the max whilst boyfriend Will works and works....
Discovering Amsterdam, Iris falls in love with the city whilst Will doesn't.....then a decision is on the cards......I won't ruin the story, but encourage you to read it.
Beautifully written, you feel you are there amongst the people and in the city. A first for me by Kate Frost, but won't be my last. Curl up and enjoy......
How many people get the opportunity to move countries with their job? Would you follow the person you loved? Iris did.....following her boyfriend of 7 years to Amsterdam. She is sceptical at first, but once there she becomes alive and lives life to the max whilst boyfriend Will works and works....
Discovering Amsterdam, Iris falls in love with the city whilst Will doesn't.....then a decision is on the cards......I won't ruin the story, but encourage you to read it.
Beautifully written, you feel you are there amongst the people and in the city. A first for me by Kate Frost, but won't be my last. Curl up and enjoy......
November 21, 2021
This is the first book of Katie's that I've read & if they're all as good as this one I'll definitely be reading more of them. I loved everything about this & was sorry to see it end.
So visually descriptive that I found myself transported onto the streets of Amsterdam with Iris. I loved Iris & her journey of rediscovering herself & finding love.
A beautifully written, gorgeous Christmas fairytale that's uplifting, heartwarming & cosy.
Many thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for my tour spot & gifted copy.
𝗜 𝗴𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗮 5 ⭐ 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴
So visually descriptive that I found myself transported onto the streets of Amsterdam with Iris. I loved Iris & her journey of rediscovering herself & finding love.
A beautifully written, gorgeous Christmas fairytale that's uplifting, heartwarming & cosy.
Many thanks to Rachel's Random Resources for my tour spot & gifted copy.
𝗜 𝗴𝗮𝘃𝗲 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸 𝗮 5 ⭐ 𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴
March 14, 2024
couldn't put it down
This is my second novel by Kate Frost. I loved the first novel I read, I didn't think another could beat the first one but I liked this one even better. I thought it was a great story line, how Iris was, in a way forced to move to a place she really didn't want to go only to find out she really liked it more than she could ever know. The way the character grows and learns valuable lessons is what really moved me about this story. I am sure to read more from this author.
This is my second novel by Kate Frost. I loved the first novel I read, I didn't think another could beat the first one but I liked this one even better. I thought it was a great story line, how Iris was, in a way forced to move to a place she really didn't want to go only to find out she really liked it more than she could ever know. The way the character grows and learns valuable lessons is what really moved me about this story. I am sure to read more from this author.
November 13, 2020
After a move to Amsterdam, Iris realized her boyfriend Will has been manipulating her for years. She had lost her spark and her creative edge. Moving to Amsterdam helps her to find her muse again and helps her see what she truly wants out of life.
This was an awesome book! Iris is able to find her true self and true love. The writing is colourful and has you feeling you’re experiencing Amsterdam and all it has to offer.
I received an arc of this book in exchange for my honest review.
This was an awesome book! Iris is able to find her true self and true love. The writing is colourful and has you feeling you’re experiencing Amsterdam and all it has to offer.
I received an arc of this book in exchange for my honest review.
November 15, 2020
The Amsterdam Affair is the fourth book in a standalone series of Romantic Escape novels that can be read in any order. I enjoyed reading Iris and Bram's story, of finding out what Will her boyfriend was really like, and then getting lucky in meeting Bram. This is a new Author to me and I want to read more by her. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 27, 2021
Iris and Will have been living together when Will decides he’s going to relocate to Amsterdam for a year and wants Iris to give up her job and accompany him. Iris is annoyed and upset at having to relocate as Will didn’t discuss it with her, she gives up her job and they go to Amsterdam where things start to go wrong or right for Iris. Beautiful descriptions of Amsterdam, I could almost taste the oliebolen, a satisfying read.
January 27, 2023
Boyfriend Will, makes decision to move to Amsterdam for his dream job. lili not happy she wasn’t even talked to about this. They arrived there and she loves the city and meets people she can be creative with. She thrives and Will…not so much. He’s working for his ex girlfriend, that he was with when he got with Lili. They end up breaking up, she goes back to Amsterdam.
I did like how she talked a lot of Amsterdam in different seasons and the foods and traditions.
I did like how she talked a lot of Amsterdam in different seasons and the foods and traditions.
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