Cover Image: My Greek Island Summer

My Greek Island Summer

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Member Reviews

Another delightful novel from Mandy Baggot and another set on the sunny, picturesque island of Corfu, a clear favourite of Ms Baggot.

Becky works at her sister’s sandwich shop, although there are tensions between them both and her sister doesn’t know that Becky has been secretly creating off-menu recipes to keep the business going and doesn’t seem to value Becky’s contribution to the business as she sees it. Becky decides she’s had enough and books herself leave without her sister’s permission and sets off for a housesitting job in Corfu.

On route, she meets Elias, a divorce lawyer haunted by his own divorce after his wife left him for another woman. He is returning to Corfu to assess a property for his latest client and also visit his parents, something he has avoided since his divorce. Neither Becky nor Elias are completely honest with the other, yet they are drawn to each other.

Rounding out the group in this delightful story is free-spirit Petra who despite her wild child and carefree outer persona, she is also hiding a tragic secret in her past.

Add in Elias’ parents and the rest of the Greek locals, you have a fun-packed story with all of the characters having a breakthrough and working through their demons and creating a delightful tale complete with beautifully described scenery and vivid details making you feel you were baking in the heat right along with Becky, Elias and Petra.

I am looking forward to reading more from Mandy Baggot in the future and working on her back catalogue also.

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A big thank you to NetGalley and Aria for the ARC. I am voluntarily reviewing this book. I did not get this book. I guess it just wasn't for me. I adore Greece and love the food but found this to be eh. Ok. Megan was a brat but it did get better. I struggled to get 1/2 way thru. 3 stars. I am sure that there are many that will enjoy this book, I just wasn't one of them.

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Favorite Quotes:

He could imagine the raised eyes in the village… the not-so-whispered gossip of the village’s president like a rally bullhorn. Greek men didn’t get left like that. Greek men absolutely never got left for a woman… if it didn’t happen in mythology it didn’t exist.

Are you a prostitute? You know, not one of those ones who stand on street corners wearing clothes that look like the 1980s threw up all over them. I mean one of the ones who suck off politicians and pop stars in classy hotels… Oh my God! I guessed it right, didn’t I?! Well, you’re a dark horse. I didn’t really have you pegged for that when you said you hadn’t ever had sex in a plane toilet.

‘The army?’ Petra said, screwing up her face as if ‘the army’ was gone-off chicken no longer fit for human consumption. ‘To be honest the sex trade was more believable. What are you? A captain or something? Sitting behind a desk all day planning assaults?’

Only me. My mother will tell you that as I was ten pounds in weight and it felt like she was evacuating a watermelon. There was no way she was going to repeat the experience… You laugh at me? Being a child on my own growing up. No one to play with because my head was too large?… You are now thinking of me with a watermelon for a head, are you not?

My Review:

At five-hundred-twenty-eight pages, this slowly developing story was cleverly interwoven with humorous yet emotive subplots and secondary story threads that provided vibrant strokes of color and a great deal of texture to the uniquely quirky and oddly captivating characters. I was pleasantly surprised how all the sneakily placed little tidbits skillfully merged together at the end for my highly prized HEA. I smirked, giggle-snorted, and gasped my way through this gastronomical delight, which teased and taunted my various appetites and was rather destructive to my dieting efforts – but any excuse will do ;)

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What a brilliant read. If you want a book that makes you escape to Greece, but not just Corfu, this is it... I have a big love affair with Greece and i go every summer to the mainland and explore more and more of it each year, i have been to the places in the book so i can totally relate.
We have Becky who lives in the UK but decides on bookijg a holiday which she never does. She works fr her sisters company 'its a wrap' making delcious menus to go inside the wrap and has never been on a trip before whilst working beside her sister Megan... She needs a trip and looks online and find a place in corfu which sounds amazing with the infinty pool overlooking the sea, sounds like bliss, or does it? Becky gets on the flight to Athens to change and fly to corfu but things dont plan they way they should have, we see her meeting new people on the flight who she wouldnt normally befiend, especially Petra. Theres also a nice young fit Greek man Elias. Elias is fighting his own demons regarding his ex, Hestia and hes a well to do divorce lawyer who only wants male clients after what Hestia did to him.
Becky, Petra and Elias all end up stuck together in... Athens and Kefalonia and then Corfu. Elias takes thm to places in Athens to show them real Greece and they have the best time, then onto kefalonia for more experinces and one almost dies... Eventually we make it to Corfu and the house is beautiful with lots of antinque vehicles and interiors. Becky is watching the house so her ex doesnt discover these items but his lawyer turns up from London.... Theres a fight, Beckys sister arrives and a whole lot of other things. I dont want to give the storyline away but i loved it.
You can never fault with reading a mandy baggot book. great storyline, great location and great writing.
Thnnak you to Aria and netgalley for this for a review.

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This book has everything! I love the premise -- it's the perfect, dreamy escape that we need right now, written so visually and with such sensory appeal that you feel like you're there. Everything just worked, from the flow of the narrative to the little personality quirks, the entanglements, unexpected little treats, and a pleasant slide to the closure. I'll be sure to check out everything else this author has written. This book was a joy!

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Huge fan of Mandy Baggot, So was pleased to read her latest release My Greek Island Summer.
Escapism was what was needed during this difficult time we are currently having across the globe.
Here we meet Becky Rose, she currently works for her sister Megan’s Sandwich making business named Its a wrap.
Having had enough, Becky decides to head out to Corfu to a beautiful villa for 2 weeks to housesit after seeing an advert. Becky feels she needs this time to get away from her sister and all that is goin on at work.
Add to the mix handsome Elias Mardas, who Becky meets on the plane. He is also on the way to Corfu for work. When the couple meet there is an instant spark but Becky doesnt think anything of it that is until they have to spend the night in Athens as they miss their connecting flight to Corfu. Bad weather conditions then lead them to having to spend the night in Kefalonia. Can Becky and Elias become more than friends and will romance blossom!?.
I also enjoyed reading about the supporting cast and had a soft spot for Petra.
Mandy Baggot once again delivers a fast paced smasher of a story, one that is full of love, laughs, friendships and likeable charactors.
Counting on her next book coming soon.

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This is the best book to read during these crazy days, it will transport you to a beautiful island full of sand and happiness; the best way to disconnect, don’t you think?
I was in Greece a long time ago and this book made me travel there again, the descriptions of the food, people, landscape… it was like being transported to Greece instead of being on my boring sofa, and let’s admit it, I really enjoyed the trip, I’ll possibly travel there this night, will you accompany me?
The story is refreshing and with a lot of humour on it, Becky Rowe needs a vacation from her sister and job, so she decides to stay for 2 weeks doing a house-sitting in an impressive villa in Greece. It will not be as easy as she hopes, during the flight from London to Corfu she will meet her two partners in this adventure: Elias and Petra. The story is full of emotive moments, delicious recipes and romance, because who doesn’t love a good romance in summer?
I really liked how the author, Mandy Baggot, created this story. The characters felt real and with a purpose, not simply to entertain the reader. In the end I wanted to know more about them, how will they lives continue and if their happiness will be fulfilled. Don’t get me wrong, the story has a happy ending, but I was so invested with the characters that I didn’t want to end the story. I only hope we will see them in another story…
My Greek Island is a quick read, perfect to make you disconnect from your worries, ready for a sunny trip?

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The first time I started this book I couldn’t get into it. I turned the few pages back to the beginning later on and started again. It was a fun read. All about travel, adventure, family, friendship, and love. Sexy times were fade out. Not a bad read.


I voluntarily read an early copy.

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As I've said already if you want to travel without leaving home and escape, especially from the current situation, at least temporarily, then this is the book for you. I've only ever seen Greece and its islands on TV or in films but this book whisked me off to all of them within seconds of picking it up. We follow Becky as she does something quite out of character and heads off to Corfu for two weeks of complete relaxation. Along the way we get to see her develop and grow as a character but we also get the sights, smells, sounds and even tastes of Greece. The author has described everything so clearly that I defy you to not feel you are in a taverna with the characters, eating and drinking when they are.

I liked Becky's story, it was realistic and it was good to see her change and her character to come out as she tried new things in Greece and on the islands. Before she'd even left the UK I felt she needed a break and a bit more respect and recognition from certain people. She is one of those characters I found it easy to empathise with and to understand her perspective on things. Elias was a bit of a mixed bag. I completely understood his point of view on some things but on others I felt he was being overly harsh though I could see why he would be like that, even if I didn't like it. The islands I feel are also a character in themselves and were described brilliantly. I could see and taste the food, feel the sun and see the sea view, the buildings and the flowers cascading over planters. If I could leave the UK tomorrow I would be on the first plane to Greece and Corfu, probably via Kefalonia though hopefully by choice and not because of the weather.

If you are struggling to concentrate just now or just want to escape for some sea, sunshine and amazing food then I would highly recommend reading this book. It's exactly what everyone needs at the moment, and will also be an excellent choice to brighten a gloomy winter day later in the year. What more could you possibly want from a book?

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I have never met a Mandy Baggot book I didn't like ;) Her writing is always on point and easy to read and her characters are engaging. The storyline was great fun and I highly recommend it for an easy summery read.

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A sugary sweet holiday romance. The story did have a lengthy exposition and set-up for the two characters to meet, and even longer to start expressing romantic interest. (Come on, just get to the good stuff already!) But, that being said, it is a cute read and definitely would make the perfect holiday beach read. Even if you're just missing your own Elias sitting besides you on the plane and travels, but c'est la vie. ;)

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How I've looked forward to this - and how well I've been rewarded!

Becky is on her way to Corfu to house-sit a stunning villa - the chance for the holiday of a lifetime and completely different to her usual day-to-day life. Elias is also travelling to Corfu; partly business, partly to see his parents. Sitting together on the plane, their acquaintance should be brief - but somehow fate intervenes to extend the time it takes to reach their destination. Finally, Becky makes it to her holiday home and dreams of floating in the infinity pool and concentrating on herself, but then Elias turns up ...

A Mandy Baggot novel is always such a treat to read, and I truly loved everything about this one! In the midst of the Covid-19 lockdown, the chilly weather continuing in Scotland despite others posting pictures of beautifully warm spring days, this novel brought the sunshine into my life! Becky and Elias are both very charismatic, each with a differing history - all of which is revealed over the course of the book. With several other characters, there is plenty happening on these pages and so many funny moments to boot. Wonderfully entertaining, thoroughly enjoyable and absolutely recommended. In these strange times we live in, this book will allow you to take a virtual holiday and enjoy the feel of the sun on your skin - even when the skies outside are grey. A perfect read - earning a perfect five sparkling stars!

My thanks to the publisher for my copy via NetGalley and to Vicky Joss for my spot in this tour; this is - as always - my honest, original and unbiased review.

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This is a fun, light book for sure. I did enjoy the second half of the book, but the first half was a struggle for me. I didn't like the way the characters were introduced. During the beginning of the book, I kept thinking like I was missing something, like I was suppose to understand more about the characters than what was written about them.

Books that use current celebrity names or fads in language bother me, because that immediately means this book will be dated and will not stand the test of time. For example, they mention The Masked Singer, which is a brand new show that I do not believe is going to last long. Also, I think a comparison was made to a famous magician that I had never heard of, so of course I didn't get the comparison that was trying to be made. However, I should admit to the fact that I did get all the Hallmark movie references. I might be a fan of Ryan Paevy as well. 

There was an airport scene with a missed connection that just dragged on. The characters really annoyed me in that scene. People miss connections. It should not have taken up as many pages of the book as it did. Also, for all my missed connections in my life, no airline has ever put me up in a 5-star hotel for free.

After the characters leave Athens, I really thought the book got much better. More of the characters' backgrounds came to light, which helped them become more likable. I found Petra an annoying character at first, but by the end of the book, she would turn out to be my very favorite character. It made me wish I could be young and carefree again. The scene where Petra and Becky arrive at their accommodations in Corfu and find a menagerie of unwelcome animals, including a flamingo, was very amusing.

Overall, I enjoyed the new found love, the sisterly bonding, and especially the Greek scenery. A nice way to feel like your traveling from the comfort of your own home.

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Becky Rose has just landed her dream job house-sitting at a top-end villa on the island of Corfu. What could be better than two weeks laying by an infinity pool overlooking the gorgeous Ionian waters while mending her broken heart.

Elias Mardas is travelling back to Corfu on business whilst dealing with his own personal demons. Late arriving in Athens, Becky and Elias have to spend a night in the Greek capital. When they have to emergency land in Kefalonia, Becky’s got to decide whether to suck up the adventure and this gorgeous companion she seems to have been thrown together with or panic about when she’s going to arrive at Corfu…

Finally reaching the beautiful island, Becky is happy to put Elias behind her and get on with her adventure. Until he turns up at the villa.

Published in ebook 2nd April and paperback in June by Aria Fiction

Full of perfect Summer escapism, food, conflict, drama, fun and quirky characters I completely fell in love with it and I think you will too.

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An entertaining book that had me wishing I was jetting off to Greece 🇬🇷
Loved the beautiful descriptions of the places and food.
An interesting storyline, with some unexpected moments to keep me page turning.

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This is the second book of Mandy’s set in Greece I’ve read and I adored it as much as I adored the first, she has a way of making you feel like you’re in Greece yourself (which is really helpful psychologically at the moment) and you could step into the pages of the book and be with the characters. I love books like this, so immersive, so lighthearted, entertaining and full of optimism. It’s a slow burn romance which I love and the supporting characters are as well written as the main characters, I adored Elias parents just so funny. A completely fantastic read when I needed it most.

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion

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After reading the synopsis for My Greek Island Summer by Mandy Baggot, I expected a fun and lighthearted holiday romance, full of beautiful greek culture, and I got that and more.

The characters are likeable and easy to relate to. The writing style is paced well and flows freely. But the most amazing part of the book for me is the wonderful descriptions of Greece and the various places the characters visited. Mandy paints a picture of an enchanting island getaway with alluring views and plenty of cultural heritage. It made me desperately want to visit Corfu which is somewhere I’ve never been. It also made me really hungry with all the amazing food 😂

The romance between Becky and Elias is so cute. I loved the slow burn build up and the challenges each of them faced with their past relationships. Added to that, Petra was a delight I didn’t realise I needed. I loved her lust for life (and other things!).

Having read this during the time of the Covid-19 lockdown, being able to get lost in such an amazing location was just what I needed.

Although this is Mandy’s 20th book it’s the first book of hers I’ve read and after this one I’ll definitely be picking up more of her back catalogue!

4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher (Aria Fiction) for providing a copy of the book for review. All opinions are my own and provided willingly.

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This is great chick lit that will take your mind off of things. Sometimes I need to read a book like this that is just fun and doesn't require a lot of thought. The beautiful setting added to the enjoyment for me.

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Never has there been a better time to let a book transport you to the beaches of a Greek Island and it is currently the best way to vicariously soak up some foreign sunshine and feel like you’re on that long awaited holiday abroad.

Becky Rose works for her sister’s sandwich company and while she is very passionate about what she does she’s starting to feel like its not the best place for her. Megan is the ultimate small businesswoman and makes Becky feel inadequate just by being there. So when she sees an advert for someone to housesit a beautiful beach house on Corfu for two weeks it feels like the perfect solution for everyone.

Elias Mardas is travelling back to Corfu on business. He has been avoiding his family home for some time now and the last thing he wants is to face the truths that being back in Greece force him to confront. When their flight to Athens is delayed and they miss the connecting flight to Corfu Becky and Elias have to spend the evening together in the capital.

When the night in Athens then becomes a second night in Kefalonia after their plane has to make an emergency landing Becky has to decide to embrace the uncertainty and adventure or to walk away from the dashing Greek man whose fate has suddenly became intertwined with hers.

Its a fun story that beautifully describes both the scenery and the people of Greece and I defy you not to be hunting in the fridge for a slab of feta cheese and a glass of Metaxa as you read this book. Baggot does an amazing job of making you feel like you’re right there on the island with them and let’s face it for most of us it might be the closest thing we get to a foreign holiday this year.

Supplied by Net Galley and Aria in exchange for an honest review. I’m really excited to be part of the Blog Tour for this release.

UK Publication Date: April 2 2020. 380 pages. Currently included in Kindle Unlimited in the UK.

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I needed a light-hearted romance to read and My Greek Summer Island is definitely that.

One of the biggest things that I took away from this book is that clearly I'm missing out on a ton of delicious Greek food to eat. I actually took to Pinterest after reading this and pinned some amazing authentic recipes to try out. I'm pretty excited because the way they were described in the book,I was drooling!

Our main character is Becky and she works for her sister's sandwich catering service. The beginning of the story was confusing to me, as I was trying to keep up with names and business names and more, but then things evened out and I figured out who was who.

Becky decides to take a house sitting job for a few weeks in Greece and on her way there meets Elias. She also meets Petra on the same flight and they become friends, reluctantly at first.

I still can't decide if I like Petra or not. She's the complete opposite of Becky but she's also reckless and it made me crazy. She did also add a lot of elements of fun to the story as she got Becky out of her shell to try new things.

Becky and Elias's romance was sweet. His parents cracked me up, particularly his mother. She reminded me a lot of my grandmother.

I think honestly what I loved most about this story was the setting and the food. I've never been to Greece and I was just utterly enchanted by the setting for the characters. I loved it much more than the characters themselves.

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