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Those Summer Nights
Sunshine, soft white sand and a sizzling hot millionaire – you don’t get trouble in paradise, right?
Imogen Charlton is sorted. Dead-beat husband? History. Dream job? Application sent. But then her impulsive brother, Harry, spends every last penny on a Greek restaurant in Corfu, and is determined to run it himself. It’s up to Imogen to bring him to his senses.
When sexy millionaire Panos Dimitriou offers to buy back his family taverna, Imogen wonders if all her prayers have been answered (and all her fantasies about to come true). But Harry won’t budge, and his enthusiasm is infectious.
Bright pink bougainvillea tumbling over whitewashed walls, endless blue skies, the sparkling Mediterranean; it’s hard not to fall for Corfu. And that’s not all Imogen is falling for...
As the sparks of passion fly between Imogen and Panos, is Imogen having second thoughts on selling the restaurant? And will she have to choose between love and a new dream?
This summer, spend long sunny days on the beach, and balmy nights in Greek tavernas on the gorgeous island of Corfu. Perfect for fans of Lucy Diamond, Miranda Dickinson and Lindsey Kelk.
Imogen Charlton is sorted. Dead-beat husband? History. Dream job? Application sent. But then her impulsive brother, Harry, spends every last penny on a Greek restaurant in Corfu, and is determined to run it himself. It’s up to Imogen to bring him to his senses.
When sexy millionaire Panos Dimitriou offers to buy back his family taverna, Imogen wonders if all her prayers have been answered (and all her fantasies about to come true). But Harry won’t budge, and his enthusiasm is infectious.
Bright pink bougainvillea tumbling over whitewashed walls, endless blue skies, the sparkling Mediterranean; it’s hard not to fall for Corfu. And that’s not all Imogen is falling for...
As the sparks of passion fly between Imogen and Panos, is Imogen having second thoughts on selling the restaurant? And will she have to choose between love and a new dream?
This summer, spend long sunny days on the beach, and balmy nights in Greek tavernas on the gorgeous island of Corfu. Perfect for fans of Lucy Diamond, Miranda Dickinson and Lindsey Kelk.
375 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 27, 2016
537 people are currently reading
1165 people want to read
About the author
Mandy Baggot
61 books749 followersMandy Baggot is an international bestselling and award-winning romance writer represented by Tanera Simons of Greenstone Literary.
Mandy is best-known for her laugh-out-loud romantic comedies featuring strong heroines, gorgeous heroes and always that happy-ever-after!
The winner of the Innovation in Romantic Fiction award at the UK's Festival of Romance, her novel, One Wish in Manhattan, was also shortlisted for the Romantic Novelists' Association Romantic Comedy Novel of the Year award in 2016. Mandy's books have so far been translated into Bulgarian, Czech, German, Hungarian and Italian.
Mandy loves the Greek island of Corfu, wine, cheese, Netflix, country music and handbags. Also a singer, she has taken part in ITV1's Who Dares Sings and The X-Factor. Most recently, Mandy took part in BBC1's Ready Steady Cook with Greek celebrity chef, Akis Petretzikis.
Mandy is a member of the Society of Authors and splits her time between Salisbury, Wiltshire, UK and Corfu, Greece.
Visit Mandy's website at www.mandybaggot.com
Mandy is best-known for her laugh-out-loud romantic comedies featuring strong heroines, gorgeous heroes and always that happy-ever-after!
The winner of the Innovation in Romantic Fiction award at the UK's Festival of Romance, her novel, One Wish in Manhattan, was also shortlisted for the Romantic Novelists' Association Romantic Comedy Novel of the Year award in 2016. Mandy's books have so far been translated into Bulgarian, Czech, German, Hungarian and Italian.
Mandy loves the Greek island of Corfu, wine, cheese, Netflix, country music and handbags. Also a singer, she has taken part in ITV1's Who Dares Sings and The X-Factor. Most recently, Mandy took part in BBC1's Ready Steady Cook with Greek celebrity chef, Akis Petretzikis.
Mandy is a member of the Society of Authors and splits her time between Salisbury, Wiltshire, UK and Corfu, Greece.
Visit Mandy's website at www.mandybaggot.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
May 29, 2016
Wow- this book has everything for the perfect summer read. Hot sizzling male, gorgeous Greek Villages on the sea front, dreams , building relationships and lovely Greek Grandmas. Added to that, delicious Greek recipes in the back of the book to try over the summer. I have got to get some baklava next time I go to Costco.
This is the ideal book to read on holiday- bright blue skies, warm sandy beaches, a cocktail or two beside you and dreams of Greece if you are reading in the back garden!
I loved the grandma, Elpida and loved the way she helped everyone in the enveloping warmth and bustling nature she has.
Imogen is horrified initially when she flies out to Greece with her brother Harry when he's bought a run down Greek restaurant. She doesn't have the vision that he has-but his dreams soon win her round so that she can see the potential and help him to find happiness through success.
I loved the way that Panos was a real pain at the beginning-even though he was totally unresistable. The sparks between them sizzled through the pages and he created some really magical moments that were real highlights for me- especially the community market where they sampled lots of Greek fare and got some gorgeous embroidered tablecloths. But was it only me that was cringing at the thought of holiday makers being let loose to spill read wine and tomato sauce all over the crisp white cotton! I'd have saved those for the house I think and needed to make a return visit!
I've never been to Greece- but it's definately on my wish list.
With many thanks to Bookoutre who never fail to deliver winning reads, Mandy Baggot who writes the most engaging books and Net Galley for the chance to read this one.
This is the ideal book to read on holiday- bright blue skies, warm sandy beaches, a cocktail or two beside you and dreams of Greece if you are reading in the back garden!
I loved the grandma, Elpida and loved the way she helped everyone in the enveloping warmth and bustling nature she has.
Imogen is horrified initially when she flies out to Greece with her brother Harry when he's bought a run down Greek restaurant. She doesn't have the vision that he has-but his dreams soon win her round so that she can see the potential and help him to find happiness through success.
I loved the way that Panos was a real pain at the beginning-even though he was totally unresistable. The sparks between them sizzled through the pages and he created some really magical moments that were real highlights for me- especially the community market where they sampled lots of Greek fare and got some gorgeous embroidered tablecloths. But was it only me that was cringing at the thought of holiday makers being let loose to spill read wine and tomato sauce all over the crisp white cotton! I'd have saved those for the house I think and needed to make a return visit!
I've never been to Greece- but it's definately on my wish list.
With many thanks to Bookoutre who never fail to deliver winning reads, Mandy Baggot who writes the most engaging books and Net Galley for the chance to read this one.
June 1, 2016
Imogen gets a huge surprise, when her brother Harry announces what he has done-bought a restaurant...in Corfu! Imogen is ensured that she can convince Harry to change his mind. When Imogen and Harry arrive on Corfu, the restaurant seems to be even in worse condition than it was in the pictures, but Harry is still very excited and is sure he can open the restaurant in two weeks. When Imogen and Harry accidentally meet the woman, who owned the restaurant, things start to get even more tangled. That's the moment, when Imogen and Panos meet, which starts to change everything. Panos is ready to buy the taverna back, but Pano's grandmother has absolutely other plans. The more Imogen and Harry work on the taverna, the more Imogen starts to like their project and Corfu as well. Harry's enthusiasm and happiness convinces Imogen and she realizes that Harry hadn't lost his mind and is really ready to start a new chapter, especially to get his family back, because things weren't so well between him and his wife. How will things turn out for everyone, is Harry going to woo his wife back and what happens with the connection that Imogen and Panos share, despite the differences and misunderstandings they had since they first met?
I really enjoyed the descriptions of the island and food. I really liked Harry, he was so determined, hard working and positive. He was a great husband, brother and son.Another character who stood out was Elpida, she was the grandma you'd wish to have! Each and every character was wonderful in their own way, there was only one character, who took time to warm up to and it was Panos, but eventually you were able to see what a wonderful and caring person he really was. All in all, it's a wonderful summery read that transports you right into the magical Corfu!
I really enjoyed the descriptions of the island and food. I really liked Harry, he was so determined, hard working and positive. He was a great husband, brother and son.Another character who stood out was Elpida, she was the grandma you'd wish to have! Each and every character was wonderful in their own way, there was only one character, who took time to warm up to and it was Panos, but eventually you were able to see what a wonderful and caring person he really was. All in all, it's a wonderful summery read that transports you right into the magical Corfu!
March 14, 2023
A story set in a locale so richly described in detail with characters that you are rooting for is not a book to be missed. I am ready to pack my bags and get on a plane to Corfu and I’m not a huge fan of the beach setting.
Just like Imogen, I had deep reservations and concerns about Harry’s purchase of a restaurant, sight unseen in another country. My first thought is why isn’t there some kind of power of attorney in place to ensure that these type of over the top situations don’t happen in the first place as we learn early on that Harry is suffering from a manic depressive behavior disorder. Just like Imogen, I found myself visibly cringing when, upon arrival at the restaurant, they find a dilapidated wreck needing extensive work. Lastly, just like Imogen, I began to change my opinion of this adventure once I could see the potential this restaurant has and witnessed the enthusiasm and drive in Harry to make it successful. I couldn’t do anything else but root for the guy and admire his determination to make it work and reunite his family.
I liked Panos and knew there was more beneath the stuffy shirt and tie persona he presents to the world. Once his walls began to crumble and I learned why he does what he does, a tidal wave of empathy rose up for him. His grandmother, Elpida, was a spitfire and I laughed myself silly at some of her antics and loved that she was willing to help out two English strangers get this restaurant up and running.
The only issue with this story is that it ended where it did. I would have liked a little more closure regarding Imogen and Panos. I assume they got together on a more permanent basis, but is she really going to work in her brother’s restaurant after all her dreams and ambition to work in the hotel industry? I would like to think that with Panos’ influence and contacts, she could explore that more.
My Final Verdict: I highly recommend this story to readers who like to be swept away to exotic locations to spend time with amazing characters, food and drink.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Those Summer Nights from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
Just like Imogen, I had deep reservations and concerns about Harry’s purchase of a restaurant, sight unseen in another country. My first thought is why isn’t there some kind of power of attorney in place to ensure that these type of over the top situations don’t happen in the first place as we learn early on that Harry is suffering from a manic depressive behavior disorder. Just like Imogen, I found myself visibly cringing when, upon arrival at the restaurant, they find a dilapidated wreck needing extensive work. Lastly, just like Imogen, I began to change my opinion of this adventure once I could see the potential this restaurant has and witnessed the enthusiasm and drive in Harry to make it successful. I couldn’t do anything else but root for the guy and admire his determination to make it work and reunite his family.
I liked Panos and knew there was more beneath the stuffy shirt and tie persona he presents to the world. Once his walls began to crumble and I learned why he does what he does, a tidal wave of empathy rose up for him. His grandmother, Elpida, was a spitfire and I laughed myself silly at some of her antics and loved that she was willing to help out two English strangers get this restaurant up and running.
The only issue with this story is that it ended where it did. I would have liked a little more closure regarding Imogen and Panos. I assume they got together on a more permanent basis, but is she really going to work in her brother’s restaurant after all her dreams and ambition to work in the hotel industry? I would like to think that with Panos’ influence and contacts, she could explore that more.
My Final Verdict: I highly recommend this story to readers who like to be swept away to exotic locations to spend time with amazing characters, food and drink.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of Those Summer Nights from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
May 23, 2016
How could I not like this book? It is about Greece and food, two things I passionately love!
I think this book succeeded in with it was designed to do. It made my mouth water with all the delicious Greek dishes that were described. I can’t count the times that I said to my husband: “Ok, now I want souvlaki. Ow and a portion of Tzatziki!” After finishing the book I started googling holidays in Corfu. (One of the Greek Island that I haven’t visited yet. But it is on the list for next year thanks to Those summer nights.) So yes, it made me yearn for a Greek holiday.
I loved how the story was told from two different pov’s. In one POV we follow the English Imogen, who sets out with her brother to Corfu. Harry has bought a restaurant at the beachside and he is excited to make it a success. His sister however is very sceptical. Harry has a history with depression and it is even hinted manic episodes. So it is her job to get her brother on the next plane back to England. However when Imogene arrives at Corfu things quickly begin to chance.
The second POV is that of Panos, a very wealthy local who returns to his home island to bring “modern improvement to the local beachfront”. Panos stays with his grandmother and quickly finds that innovation might not be the answer to all his problems.
I had an instant connection with Imogen. She is such a wonderful woman. Funny, caring and very protective about her family. I personally loved her when she got angry, because that made her all the more real for me. I had some trouble connecting to Panos for some reason. Maybe he was a little bit to stereotype for me. Described as a Greek God with lots of money to spend..; that just doesn’t do it for me. I personally liked Harry as a character more. He isn’t perfect, but he is working very hard for the things he loves and cherishes.
And I want a grandma like Yaiyai! She is so funny and adorable! Overall I loved all the characters in this story. I wouldn’t mind spending my summer with them in Corfu! They were all kind-hearted people who were fighting for their happiness.
The community feeling really seeped from the pages and that was made this book so strong. It felt like you could get in touch with traditional Corfu!
One little point of critique maybe. I was a little bit disappointed with the outcome of the story. (Look out for spoilers because I am going into more debt!)
Those Summer Night is a lovely read! It is a warm, funny summer read that every woman should carry in her bag to the beach!
I think this book succeeded in with it was designed to do. It made my mouth water with all the delicious Greek dishes that were described. I can’t count the times that I said to my husband: “Ok, now I want souvlaki. Ow and a portion of Tzatziki!” After finishing the book I started googling holidays in Corfu. (One of the Greek Island that I haven’t visited yet. But it is on the list for next year thanks to Those summer nights.) So yes, it made me yearn for a Greek holiday.
I loved how the story was told from two different pov’s. In one POV we follow the English Imogen, who sets out with her brother to Corfu. Harry has bought a restaurant at the beachside and he is excited to make it a success. His sister however is very sceptical. Harry has a history with depression and it is even hinted manic episodes. So it is her job to get her brother on the next plane back to England. However when Imogene arrives at Corfu things quickly begin to chance.
The second POV is that of Panos, a very wealthy local who returns to his home island to bring “modern improvement to the local beachfront”. Panos stays with his grandmother and quickly finds that innovation might not be the answer to all his problems.
I had an instant connection with Imogen. She is such a wonderful woman. Funny, caring and very protective about her family. I personally loved her when she got angry, because that made her all the more real for me. I had some trouble connecting to Panos for some reason. Maybe he was a little bit to stereotype for me. Described as a Greek God with lots of money to spend..; that just doesn’t do it for me. I personally liked Harry as a character more. He isn’t perfect, but he is working very hard for the things he loves and cherishes.
And I want a grandma like Yaiyai! She is so funny and adorable! Overall I loved all the characters in this story. I wouldn’t mind spending my summer with them in Corfu! They were all kind-hearted people who were fighting for their happiness.
The community feeling really seeped from the pages and that was made this book so strong. It felt like you could get in touch with traditional Corfu!
One little point of critique maybe. I was a little bit disappointed with the outcome of the story. (Look out for spoilers because I am going into more debt!)
Those Summer Night is a lovely read! It is a warm, funny summer read that every woman should carry in her bag to the beach!
June 27, 2016
Those Summer Nights This was a funny read, not exactly what I'd expected.Imogen is a waitress at some diner in the UK. Her dream is to get a job with the same company her dad used to work for. Her cooking skills are for the most part okay, except for her pastries. She's busy trying to figure out what to do with her life, thought the truth is she spends most of her time trying to keep her brother out of trouble, and now she's worried about her mom's emotional health.Her brother bought a restaurant in Corfu, Greece and her mom and sister in law look to Imogen to help talk him out this deal. Apparently HIS mental health isn't all that great. Ever since an accident at work, Harry, seems not to be good at making decisions--especially when he's depressed.Hoping to persuade him to sell the restaurant, she follows him to Corfu. They find the restaurant needs a lot of work, and when Panos offers to buy it from her she almost gives in but then seeing how happy her brother, Harry, is she declines to tell Harry about the offer and decides to help him get it cleaned and ready to open again.Panos is from Corfu but let when he was young, and is now a millionaire. Corfu brings sad memories and he wants nothing to do with it. Instead. His pride makes him want to buy all the restaurants at the beachfront and his plan is to convert it into a party area. He bumps heads with Imogen when she discovers what he wants to do, and she won't let Panos get to Harry. Panos grandma, family, and friends join her efforts, which doesn't bode well with Panos.Panos likes Imogen but has inner demons to find. He does t think he's capable of love. Imogen is divorced, and the last thing she's looking for is a man, but spending time with Panos is tempting her. Again this was an entertaining read, a little too long for the type of story if you ask me. The chemistry between Panos and Imogen felt forced. I didn't feel it, not even when they danced the dance of love. Then, the one other thing that bothered me was that all of this happens within two weeks, though it seems longer. Panos has just broken up with a woman, who he's left in Crete, and once he gets together with Imogen and have sex, there's no reference to safe sex. Hello? It's a contemporary romance. There's such a thing as safe sex even if it's fiction. And...I guess what bothered me the most was Imogen finally gets a chance to make her dream come true. She gets an email from the hotel chain she wants work for. It is true her family is now in Greece, and she's got no one in the UK, and she's fallen in love. But why would anyone consider giving up a dream career just to be with a man you've just met?Again, this was a fun read--except for those tidbits.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2017
Greece was never on my want to visit list before, but it sure is now. What is there in Greece according to Mandy Baggot: gorgeous men, beautiful Greek Villages on the water, hilarious Greek grandmas, delicious Greek food and wine, local markets, relaxing days on sandy beaches and love.
Imogen works in a little restaurant in London but has big dreams or working for a large hotel chain. Her brother Harry is dealing with depression and bi-polar disorder. He is recently separated from his wife, but tries to spend time with his two children. When Harry tells Imogen he has purchased a restaurant in Corfu, Greece he is sure that it will bring his family back together. Imogen is horrified when she flies to Greece with Harry to find a rundown, disaster of a restaurant that he has purchased. She doesn't have the vision that he has-but his dreams soon win her round so that she can see the potential and help him to find happiness through success. She has never seen him happier than in Corfu and she will do whatever it takes to help Harry with his restaurant and his attempt to win his family back.
The characters in this book are wonderful. They are like a huge family that do whatever is necessary to help one another. I loved the grandma, Elpida and how she helped everyone with her energetic personna and her love for her community and family. Her friend Cooky was just that, a little kooky. The two Greek men, Panos and Risto, are cousins who could not be more different. Risto is just like his grandmother, warm, welcoming and helpful. Panos, the evil developer, changes his stripes from the beginning to the end of the story. Of course love has a lot to do with that.
I do not want to give anymore of the story away, but suffice it to say that dreams can come true in Greece. With a little ouzo or some Greek wine, a bozouki player and great food you never know what can happen. I am definitely going to check out more books by Mandy Baggot. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
Imogen works in a little restaurant in London but has big dreams or working for a large hotel chain. Her brother Harry is dealing with depression and bi-polar disorder. He is recently separated from his wife, but tries to spend time with his two children. When Harry tells Imogen he has purchased a restaurant in Corfu, Greece he is sure that it will bring his family back together. Imogen is horrified when she flies to Greece with Harry to find a rundown, disaster of a restaurant that he has purchased. She doesn't have the vision that he has-but his dreams soon win her round so that she can see the potential and help him to find happiness through success. She has never seen him happier than in Corfu and she will do whatever it takes to help Harry with his restaurant and his attempt to win his family back.
The characters in this book are wonderful. They are like a huge family that do whatever is necessary to help one another. I loved the grandma, Elpida and how she helped everyone with her energetic personna and her love for her community and family. Her friend Cooky was just that, a little kooky. The two Greek men, Panos and Risto, are cousins who could not be more different. Risto is just like his grandmother, warm, welcoming and helpful. Panos, the evil developer, changes his stripes from the beginning to the end of the story. Of course love has a lot to do with that.
I do not want to give anymore of the story away, but suffice it to say that dreams can come true in Greece. With a little ouzo or some Greek wine, a bozouki player and great food you never know what can happen. I am definitely going to check out more books by Mandy Baggot. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
June 13, 2016
Last year I had the pleasure of reviewing Mandy Baggot’s Truly, Madly, Greekly . It was my first book by Baggot and I simply loved it. This time around she comes back with a new summer read, Those Summer Nights, and I jumped right in to request this ARC. One of the things that keep me bringing back to her books is Baggot’s ability to transport the reader to Greece with her detailed descriptions of Corfu and the delicious Greek food. I love Greece, and I had the opportunity to go to Corfu many years ago. Unfortunately, Corfu is nowhere near my future travel plans so reading this book really made me go back to that place and experience a little bit of Greece one more time. I liked Imogen and Harry a lot. I had very mixed feelings about Panos at first, but I loved Imogen and Panos interaction as the book went on. This is another great summer read. It’s sexy, its exotic, and romantic. I definitely recommend it.
I would like to thank Bookouture and Netgalley for allowing me to read an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I would like to thank Bookouture and Netgalley for allowing me to read an early copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
May 17, 2016
Those Summer Nights is a sizzling summer hit. It will make you want to trawl the internet for cheap flights to Greece - that's how good the writing is. Really enjoyed reading this little peach from Mandy Baggot. Laugh out loud funny but also sincere as it tackles depression and separation. Thoroughly recommend
August 7, 2020
I am exactly one of those people who visit Corfu and fall in love with it - it’s impossible not to! This book is like a virtual holiday; glorious, escapist and swoony. Made me incredibly hungry (the recipes are a lush bonus, thank you) Absolutely loved it.
July 30, 2024
Another perfect summer read, all the rich descriptions of food and nature take you so easily to Greece!🌞
+ The characters were all so much fun, I loved them all!
+ The characters were all so much fun, I loved them all!
September 4, 2016
Review first posted on my blog 'A Spoonful of Happy Endings': http://spoonfulofhappyendings.blogspo...
When Imogen Charlton discovers her brother Harry has impulsively decided to buy a Greek restaurant in Corfu that is in desperate need of some TLC, she decides she can’t possibly let him go to take on this adventure by himself. Besides, who would say no to a few weeks in sunny Greece? However, the restaurant is in an even worse condition than Imogen expected and Harry is quite adamant on opening the place within two weeks. While dealing with Harry, Imogen also meets property developer Panos Dimitriou, who is keen on buying back his grandmother’s restaurant and is willing to do whatever is needed to get the property. The sparks between Imogen and Panos are difficult to ignore, but Imogen knows she can’t betray her brother who seems determined on making the restaurant a success. Suddenly, Corfu offers a lot more excitement than Imogen originally expected; excitement that forces her to make some pretty big life-altering decisions…
I’ve personally never been to Corfu, or Greece for that matter, but after having read ‘Those Summer Nights’ it almost feels like I’ve been there myself. Mandy Baggot has once again treated us to a lovely summer romance read that I enjoyed from start to finish. The book focuses mainly on Imogen who has joined her brother Harry on Corfu, where he has bought a restaurant. While busy with getting the place ready for business, Imogen and Harry meet several people including previous owner Elpida, who is the star of every scene she appears in, and Panos, her handsome grandson and also a businessman who has different plans for the local restaurants. While I straight away liked Imogen, it took me a bit of time to warm to Panos, who seems to be solely focused on making money, but as the story progresses we also, luckily, get to see a different side of him.
While I enjoyed both the romance storyline between Imogen and Panos and the storyline focusing on Harry and his restaurant, I couldn't help but sometimes miss something. I definitely enjoyed reading the novel, but here and there I felt it was a bit too slow-paced or could have used another storyline added to it to keep the reader entertained. I do want to applaud Mandy Baggot for her descriptive writing style that made it so easy to almost see, feel and smell Greece, though, which definitely added to the reading experience. On the whole, I thoroughly enjoyed Mandy Baggot’s ‘Those Summer Nights’ and if you’re looking for an entertaining and light-hearted summer chick lit read, no need to look further!
When Imogen Charlton discovers her brother Harry has impulsively decided to buy a Greek restaurant in Corfu that is in desperate need of some TLC, she decides she can’t possibly let him go to take on this adventure by himself. Besides, who would say no to a few weeks in sunny Greece? However, the restaurant is in an even worse condition than Imogen expected and Harry is quite adamant on opening the place within two weeks. While dealing with Harry, Imogen also meets property developer Panos Dimitriou, who is keen on buying back his grandmother’s restaurant and is willing to do whatever is needed to get the property. The sparks between Imogen and Panos are difficult to ignore, but Imogen knows she can’t betray her brother who seems determined on making the restaurant a success. Suddenly, Corfu offers a lot more excitement than Imogen originally expected; excitement that forces her to make some pretty big life-altering decisions…
I’ve personally never been to Corfu, or Greece for that matter, but after having read ‘Those Summer Nights’ it almost feels like I’ve been there myself. Mandy Baggot has once again treated us to a lovely summer romance read that I enjoyed from start to finish. The book focuses mainly on Imogen who has joined her brother Harry on Corfu, where he has bought a restaurant. While busy with getting the place ready for business, Imogen and Harry meet several people including previous owner Elpida, who is the star of every scene she appears in, and Panos, her handsome grandson and also a businessman who has different plans for the local restaurants. While I straight away liked Imogen, it took me a bit of time to warm to Panos, who seems to be solely focused on making money, but as the story progresses we also, luckily, get to see a different side of him.
While I enjoyed both the romance storyline between Imogen and Panos and the storyline focusing on Harry and his restaurant, I couldn't help but sometimes miss something. I definitely enjoyed reading the novel, but here and there I felt it was a bit too slow-paced or could have used another storyline added to it to keep the reader entertained. I do want to applaud Mandy Baggot for her descriptive writing style that made it so easy to almost see, feel and smell Greece, though, which definitely added to the reading experience. On the whole, I thoroughly enjoyed Mandy Baggot’s ‘Those Summer Nights’ and if you’re looking for an entertaining and light-hearted summer chick lit read, no need to look further!
May 7, 2016
4.5 Stars
Everything about this book screams Greece, from the title and its reference to the iconic song from Grease, to the opening of a Greek restaurant on the island of Corfu, and of course a sexy millionaire Greek property developer.
Harry's whole family thought he was mad when he announces out of the blue that not only has he bought a restaurant, but that it is in Corfu. Not only that, but that he hopes it will somehow help repair his marriage, and prove to everyone that he is still capable of doing things. He asks sister Imogen to go over to Corfu with him to help set up the restaurant.
It is Imogen's first visit to Corfu and seeing the island through a fresh pair of eyes is fabulous, and what stuck with me the most was the colour of the sea, the views, the markets and of course the sights and smells of the place, all described so well. It is so clear from the writing how much the author loves Corfu.
As you may have suspected there is no way you can have a book about a restaurant, set in Greece, without wonderful descriptions of Greek food, as Harry and Imogen have to decide on a menu, and in Imogen's case needs to learn how to cook some of this food. I was spending a lot of time hungry while reading this story.
It took ages for me to warm to Panos, mainly because at the start he is painted as a bad guy, but I did love that there was an obvious connection between him and Imogen, if it it takes them ages to acknowledge it. It was the day at the community market that started making me like him a lot more, and from there he to me became fabulous.
There is so much to love about Those Summer Nights, and I really think Mandy Baggot has another hit book set in Greece here, with a fantastic mix of food, romance, comedy, Socks, and a brilliant team of brand new local Greek friends to add to the fun.
Those Summer Nights is a great poolside read, or sunny day in a garden, or even freezing cold day in the middle of winter when you want to be warmed up virtually, and if like me you like going to new places in the comfort of a book, then definitely give this one a read.
Thanks so much to Netgalley and Bookouture for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
Everything about this book screams Greece, from the title and its reference to the iconic song from Grease, to the opening of a Greek restaurant on the island of Corfu, and of course a sexy millionaire Greek property developer.
Harry's whole family thought he was mad when he announces out of the blue that not only has he bought a restaurant, but that it is in Corfu. Not only that, but that he hopes it will somehow help repair his marriage, and prove to everyone that he is still capable of doing things. He asks sister Imogen to go over to Corfu with him to help set up the restaurant.
It is Imogen's first visit to Corfu and seeing the island through a fresh pair of eyes is fabulous, and what stuck with me the most was the colour of the sea, the views, the markets and of course the sights and smells of the place, all described so well. It is so clear from the writing how much the author loves Corfu.
As you may have suspected there is no way you can have a book about a restaurant, set in Greece, without wonderful descriptions of Greek food, as Harry and Imogen have to decide on a menu, and in Imogen's case needs to learn how to cook some of this food. I was spending a lot of time hungry while reading this story.
It took ages for me to warm to Panos, mainly because at the start he is painted as a bad guy, but I did love that there was an obvious connection between him and Imogen, if it it takes them ages to acknowledge it. It was the day at the community market that started making me like him a lot more, and from there he to me became fabulous.
There is so much to love about Those Summer Nights, and I really think Mandy Baggot has another hit book set in Greece here, with a fantastic mix of food, romance, comedy, Socks, and a brilliant team of brand new local Greek friends to add to the fun.
Those Summer Nights is a great poolside read, or sunny day in a garden, or even freezing cold day in the middle of winter when you want to be warmed up virtually, and if like me you like going to new places in the comfort of a book, then definitely give this one a read.
Thanks so much to Netgalley and Bookouture for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
June 15, 2016
Mandy Baggott is a relatively new author to me. I know she has been writing and publishing since 2012 but I read my first book be her not that long ago and LOVED it. I was sincerely hoping it wasn't a fluke and YAY it wasn't. I have finished this and decided that Corfu is definitely somewhere I need yo go back to.
Imogen (Immy) and her brother Harry are close, except that Harry doesn't have a great history and when he announces he has brought a restaurant in Corfu Immy thinks he has finally lost his marbles. She decides that the only way to make Harry realise what a mistake he has made is to go to Corfu with him and see what she can do to get him to change his mind.
Harry and Immy are such adorable characters and it's obvious from the outset how close they are. Harry is so loveable and although it seems like his choices are impulsive it soon becomes clear that his family are the reasons behind it. Mandy Baggott has such a wonderfully descriptive narrative that I almost felt like I was settled in one of the sun loungers right next to Harry's restaurant.
I absolutely adored Elpida who is the lady who previously owned the restaurant. When her grandson Pano turns up things are shaken from the ground up. Pano is quite frankly everything you want on a Greek God and frankly I wanted to marry him myself within a few pages of meeting him. Pano is a developer and doesn't take kindly to Harry and Immy trying to revive his Grandmothers restaurant.
With this book comes a whole host of loveable characters and a place that frankly should take centre stage in a luxury travel brochure. The story is another wonderful read, and one that transported me to a beach that frankly I wanted to spend weeks on. I loved the fact that although we see Greece, you also get a real flavour of the traditional Greece as opposed to the tourist traps. Once again I devoured this book and am annoyed I didn't have the patience to wait and take it on holiday with me. My next question would be..."how long do I have to wait for the next book?".
Imogen (Immy) and her brother Harry are close, except that Harry doesn't have a great history and when he announces he has brought a restaurant in Corfu Immy thinks he has finally lost his marbles. She decides that the only way to make Harry realise what a mistake he has made is to go to Corfu with him and see what she can do to get him to change his mind.
Harry and Immy are such adorable characters and it's obvious from the outset how close they are. Harry is so loveable and although it seems like his choices are impulsive it soon becomes clear that his family are the reasons behind it. Mandy Baggott has such a wonderfully descriptive narrative that I almost felt like I was settled in one of the sun loungers right next to Harry's restaurant.
I absolutely adored Elpida who is the lady who previously owned the restaurant. When her grandson Pano turns up things are shaken from the ground up. Pano is quite frankly everything you want on a Greek God and frankly I wanted to marry him myself within a few pages of meeting him. Pano is a developer and doesn't take kindly to Harry and Immy trying to revive his Grandmothers restaurant.
With this book comes a whole host of loveable characters and a place that frankly should take centre stage in a luxury travel brochure. The story is another wonderful read, and one that transported me to a beach that frankly I wanted to spend weeks on. I loved the fact that although we see Greece, you also get a real flavour of the traditional Greece as opposed to the tourist traps. Once again I devoured this book and am annoyed I didn't have the patience to wait and take it on holiday with me. My next question would be..."how long do I have to wait for the next book?".
June 1, 2016
I received the ARC from Bookouture via Netgalley in exchange of honest reviews. All opinions are mine.
Those Summer Nights is about Imogen, whose brother Harry had just impulsively spent all of his money to buy a dilapidated restaurant in Corfu and roped her in to help with preparation to open it because she has experience in the food industry (read: waitressing at a diner). When they arrived in Corfu, preparing to open the restaurant is not the only challenge that they will face because Panos Dimitriou, whose family owned the restaurant, is going to great length to buy it back from them.
This is a story that is brilliantly written and what I really love about Mandy Baggot is that she gives out details of the places so vividly that I want to jump into the pages and be immersed in the Greek island lifestyle that she had so lovingly created in her book. Just from reading her words, it made me feel as if I'm right there in Corfu together with Imogen, Panos and the whole crew in Halloumi, enjoying the beachfront with Greek dishes that sounded so good.
That is not the only thing I love about this book. The characters are very well-written and well-developed as well. I can definitely see how Imogen and Panos (in particular) changed and developed throughout the story. I warmed up to Imogen immediately, especially when she's depicted as someone who is so protective of Harry despite being the younger sibling. Panos' relationship with his grandmother Elpida is really something as she's the yiayia that you don't want to mess with. I also love how even though Imogen and Panos fall in love quickly (Imogen was only in Corfu for two weeks!) but the way Mandy wrote it, it's like they took the time to really fall in love and I just love that build up because it's so satisfying.
I would highly recommend this to those who would love to just get lost in a Greek island and just soak up all the fun in the sun.
Those Summer Nights is about Imogen, whose brother Harry had just impulsively spent all of his money to buy a dilapidated restaurant in Corfu and roped her in to help with preparation to open it because she has experience in the food industry (read: waitressing at a diner). When they arrived in Corfu, preparing to open the restaurant is not the only challenge that they will face because Panos Dimitriou, whose family owned the restaurant, is going to great length to buy it back from them.
This is a story that is brilliantly written and what I really love about Mandy Baggot is that she gives out details of the places so vividly that I want to jump into the pages and be immersed in the Greek island lifestyle that she had so lovingly created in her book. Just from reading her words, it made me feel as if I'm right there in Corfu together with Imogen, Panos and the whole crew in Halloumi, enjoying the beachfront with Greek dishes that sounded so good.
That is not the only thing I love about this book. The characters are very well-written and well-developed as well. I can definitely see how Imogen and Panos (in particular) changed and developed throughout the story. I warmed up to Imogen immediately, especially when she's depicted as someone who is so protective of Harry despite being the younger sibling. Panos' relationship with his grandmother Elpida is really something as she's the yiayia that you don't want to mess with. I also love how even though Imogen and Panos fall in love quickly (Imogen was only in Corfu for two weeks!) but the way Mandy wrote it, it's like they took the time to really fall in love and I just love that build up because it's so satisfying.
I would highly recommend this to those who would love to just get lost in a Greek island and just soak up all the fun in the sun.
May 13, 2016
Okay, I am trying to write a decent book review without gushing here.
'Those Summer Nights' is incredible. My second read by Mandy Baggot and it keeps getting better. I truly enjoyed it from beginning till the end.
Panos and Imogen are wonderful leads. They are realistic like every other character in the book. The sister-brother relation between Imogen and Harry is just so real which I could relate to and Elpida is a hilarious and cunningyiayia . The descriptions are written so well, it feels like you're really there experiencing everything- Greece, the beach, the community market, the festival, the sizzle between Panos and Imogen, the Greek food. I can go on and on.
It definitely wanted me to go to Corfu.
Let's not forget the cover. It's so pretty!
I had been picturing David Gandy as Panos and when Mandy, herself does that TWICE, I couldn't be happier.
I fell in love with everything in this book. The plot is engaging and lovely. The only thing I was a little disappointed about was the epilogue. I wanted a little more of Imogen and Panos in the epilogue.
This book is going to leave you smiling, laughing and even crying.
I would recommend this to anyone wanting a great summer read. You do not have to be laying on the beach or by the pool. 'Those Summer Nights' will make you happy.
4 STARS!
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review also found here https://scribblingrain.wordpress.com/...
'Those Summer Nights' is incredible. My second read by Mandy Baggot and it keeps getting better. I truly enjoyed it from beginning till the end.
Panos and Imogen are wonderful leads. They are realistic like every other character in the book. The sister-brother relation between Imogen and Harry is just so real which I could relate to and Elpida is a hilarious and cunningyiayia . The descriptions are written so well, it feels like you're really there experiencing everything- Greece, the beach, the community market, the festival, the sizzle between Panos and Imogen, the Greek food. I can go on and on.
It definitely wanted me to go to Corfu.
Let's not forget the cover. It's so pretty!
I had been picturing David Gandy as Panos and when Mandy, herself does that TWICE, I couldn't be happier.
I fell in love with everything in this book. The plot is engaging and lovely. The only thing I was a little disappointed about was the epilogue. I wanted a little more of Imogen and Panos in the epilogue.
This book is going to leave you smiling, laughing and even crying.
I would recommend this to anyone wanting a great summer read. You do not have to be laying on the beach or by the pool. 'Those Summer Nights' will make you happy.
4 STARS!
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review also found here https://scribblingrain.wordpress.com/...
May 14, 2016
Mandy Baggot does it again!. After falling in love with the beautiful cover and the tempting tweets Mandy kept posting on Twitter i just had to get started on this. I wanted to escape and i knew Greece was it. This book did not disappoint. After meeting Imogen and her brother Harry we follow them to Corfu after Harry buys a run down restaurant in Acharavi, Corfu. Imogen is not keen but goes along to help her brother set it up. Harry is on a break from his marriage after suffering depression and hopes that the restaurant will put the spark back into his marriage to Janie. Throw into the mix Panos who wants the restaurant for himself to convert the beach front into a nightclub area, he believes it should be his because it belonged to his grandparents but his grandmother decided to sell. Imogen takes a dislike to Panos and decides to tackle him head on. As we learn more about the characters in the run up to the opening in only 2 weeks, this story will captivate you. I was completely thrown into the smells and tastes of the Greek food as they prepared their menu for the restaurant 'Halloumi'. I couldnt of picked a better name. Mandy's decriptions of the area and local towns had me drawn in from the begining. The market and festival was such a treat, it made the reader feel as though they were there just living it. I got lost in Corfu on Those Summer Nights, (see what i did there?) as im sure Mandy herself has many times.
June 18, 2016
Imogen's brother Harry has bought a restaurant in Corfu, Greece and he wants Immy to help him run it. Imogen is perfectly happy in England, where she is a waitress with a dream of getting into the hotel industry. She goes to Greece to try and dissuade Harry from opening the restaurant but Harry's having none of it - this is happening, it's going to be a success, and he's going to get his wife back after a separation. When Greek millionaire Panos makes Harry a tempting offer, he's having none of it. But speaking of tempting...
This is predictable, it's cheesy - but that's exactly what I wanted. This is something light to read on a Summer evening, it's pure escapism and it's Mandy Baggot - so it's always that little bit sharper and wittier than others in the genre (the line "watch me whip, watch me flambé" was so funny) - the pop culture references are always razor sharp and the characters are likeable and well rounded. I really enjoyed Elpida, the Greek mother - I thought she was brilliant. A great holiday read!
Thank you to Bookouture for the digital ARC provided through Netgalley.
This is predictable, it's cheesy - but that's exactly what I wanted. This is something light to read on a Summer evening, it's pure escapism and it's Mandy Baggot - so it's always that little bit sharper and wittier than others in the genre (the line "watch me whip, watch me flambé" was so funny) - the pop culture references are always razor sharp and the characters are likeable and well rounded. I really enjoyed Elpida, the Greek mother - I thought she was brilliant. A great holiday read!
Thank you to Bookouture for the digital ARC provided through Netgalley.
July 25, 2016
This book is wonderfully descriptive and is set in Corfu. Harry has bought a run down restaurant and is full of many ideas for the business. Imogen, his sister, has been tasked by his wife, with trying to get Harry his money back. However when Imogen soaks up the sun and setting of Corfu, she falls in love with the idea of running the restaurant with her brother. They meet so many new friends who help them, apart from Panos the grandson of the previous owner. He wants to buy back their restaurant. Sparks fly as Imogen and Panos fall in love. A wonderful summer read.
July 6, 2016
A lovely feel-good summer read. I was mystified with the description of Greece at every point in the novel.
The thing I liked most was how the novel focuses on bringing the family together, and how sometimes rash decisions taken with a sense of adventure can result in giving you successful results.
But really, Greece landscapes and Greek cuisine had me really pining for more.
All in all, it was a good summer read.
And phew, greek men are hot!
The thing I liked most was how the novel focuses on bringing the family together, and how sometimes rash decisions taken with a sense of adventure can result in giving you successful results.
But really, Greece landscapes and Greek cuisine had me really pining for more.
All in all, it was a good summer read.
And phew, greek men are hot!
May 26, 2016
I just loved Those Summer Nights by Mandy Baggot. It was a perfect read and i enjoyed everything about this book including the cover.
Those Summer Nights in the perfect weekend Chic-Lit read to take along to the beach.
Thankyou to Bookouture for a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review which I am more then happy to give.
Those Summer Nights in the perfect weekend Chic-Lit read to take along to the beach.
Thankyou to Bookouture for a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review which I am more then happy to give.
July 10, 2016
Fun summer chicklit perfect for a day at at the beach, an afternoon in the garden or even a rainy day (because the descriptions of Corfu will cheer you up.) Imogen and Panos are an entertaining pair. Baggot has done a good job with humor and in populating the novel with lots of interesting secondary characters. THanks to Netgalley for the ARC.
August 7, 2016
Food for fun
Good easy summer read. Even though it was about a restaurant there was an amazing amount of talk about food. Still a good story.
Good easy summer read. Even though it was about a restaurant there was an amazing amount of talk about food. Still a good story.
October 10, 2016
Really enjoyed this book, again like the other book of Mandy Baggot that I read, my finger has been hovering over the holiday booking websites for a trip to Corfu.
April 4, 2023
I was so glad that it was over
October 2, 2019
Massive fan of Mandy Baggot books here, have read all her latest/new books as they are released but I've not had a chance to read her earlier books yet so I am in the process of playing catch up.
So I'm so glad I've finally got around to reading Those Summer Nights, it has been an absolutely delightful read, thoroughly enjoyable from start to finish.
The story was wonderful, such fabulous characters, all of whom I loved getting to know and seeing how there individual stories played out. The setting of the story, Corfu sounded perfect and was detailed so well that it made me just want to be there for real myself.
I'm a total sucker for having animals in stories, love it when they have their very own role to play. So with that said, I very much fell in love with Socks the adorable kitten, I just wanted to take him home with me.
Just a little tip for those that read this book in future, don't do it on an empty stomach. All the yummy mention of the Greek food will make you hungry as it did with me. It all sounded so very yummy and mourish.
So another massive well done to Mandy for another outstanding book, her books really are a delight to read every time. There's also plenty of laugh out loud moments to be had from her books too.
So I'm so glad I've finally got around to reading Those Summer Nights, it has been an absolutely delightful read, thoroughly enjoyable from start to finish.
The story was wonderful, such fabulous characters, all of whom I loved getting to know and seeing how there individual stories played out. The setting of the story, Corfu sounded perfect and was detailed so well that it made me just want to be there for real myself.
I'm a total sucker for having animals in stories, love it when they have their very own role to play. So with that said, I very much fell in love with Socks the adorable kitten, I just wanted to take him home with me.
Just a little tip for those that read this book in future, don't do it on an empty stomach. All the yummy mention of the Greek food will make you hungry as it did with me. It all sounded so very yummy and mourish.
So another massive well done to Mandy for another outstanding book, her books really are a delight to read every time. There's also plenty of laugh out loud moments to be had from her books too.
August 7, 2020
This is a perfect summer read, although it is a book that would be enjoyable any time. When the two main characters go to Corfu, Greece with the intent of opening a restaurant there, they never expected all of the things that happened. Some things were wonderful, others not so much, but this is a great story that I read in a day because I kept wondering what was going to happen next. There are predictable things and not-so-predictable things happening, and overall, it is definitely a good read! I am already ordering some more of this author's books!
October 20, 2018
Just wonderful, I loved everything about this story, the characters, the setting, the romance and so much more.
September 24, 2022
Brilliant
Very well written,both emotional and funny . Love Mandy Baggot books and being a fan of Greece this book ticket all the boxes
Very well written,both emotional and funny . Love Mandy Baggot books and being a fan of Greece this book ticket all the boxes
September 13, 2023
The perfect summer read which transports you to the wonderful sights, sounds and Greek cuisine in Corfu.
April 27, 2017
Corfu setting
I love Elipada. Granny could say so much in a single look; especially, when she was upset with one of us kids. She was tough but we all loved her. Elipada is reminds me of granny. I loved the story and how it unfolded with Panos and Imogen. I really enjoyed it.
I love Elipada. Granny could say so much in a single look; especially, when she was upset with one of us kids. She was tough but we all loved her. Elipada is reminds me of granny. I loved the story and how it unfolded with Panos and Imogen. I really enjoyed it.
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