I’m the big sister in my family, so I can relate to Chloe Beech, our loveable, sincere and caring heroine. Chloe has been watching out for her younger sister Mia for most of Mia’s life, because of their alcoholic mother. Chloe is also the dependable, go-the-extra-mile employee at work. You know, the over-achieving person that the boss always takes for granted. After several years without a vacation, Chloe decides to accompany her sister to Thailand for two weeks, to celebrate Mia’s 21st birthday. Get ready to go on an adventure with Chloe in exotic locations- you are in for a treat!
“I feel strange ... like I’ve done something I shouldn’t. I’m sick of being sensible and normal.”
Even on holiday, Mia continues to be a handful. Add in an unfortunate theft and other problems and suddenly Chloe must confront how she has been living her life.
Author McManus paints the scenes of Thailand in beautiful fashion. We can smell the food, hear the crowds, see the marketplaces, feel the heat and enjoy the tropics and beaches. We can sense Chloe’s interest and growing affection for this paradise. And, as time goes on, Chloe also finds someone who piques her interest and heart even more.
Chloe must confront her head and her heart. Her head tells her to be responsible. Then it tells her to be open to new experiences. Her heart wants her to stay with her old boyfriend, then her heart shows her another man.
Chloe meets Daniel in Bangkok. Daniel is a perfume artist who creates bespoke scents. Will his perfume therapy work for Chloe?
“Daniel is the sweetest, kindest, most beautiful man I have ever met. I am supposed to be here in this exact space in time right now.”
I had the best time reading this book. It is a blend of memorable characters, splendid settings, an exciting plot and very readable. This story blends like one of Daniel’s heavenly perfumes.
“I may be in a foreign country, but Daniel is my home.”