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Summer in Andalucía
Lainey Summers feels blessed to have her dream job writing for a renowned foodie magazine. And the day she goes to interview chef Rick Oliver at his new restaurant—Aleatory—in London’s popular Piccadilly, is the start of an unexpected journey.
When Rick is offered the opportunity to jet off to a monastery in Andalucía, to film a cookery competition for Spanish TV, Lainey goes too, to cover the story.
Spending a month filming in the stunning Spanish countryside, soaking up the sights, sounds, smells and of course the cuisine, Lainey and Rick start to enjoy each other’s company. But their time together flies by too quickly, and before they know it, Rick and Lainey have to face going their separate ways.
With both their worlds shifting beneath them, the call of Andalucia and the call of happiness grows ever stronger. But with everything at stake, will they be able to take the chance of a happy-ever-after…
Let Lucy Coleman whisk you off on a sun-baked, life-affirming, total escape to beautiful Andalucia.
When Rick is offered the opportunity to jet off to a monastery in Andalucía, to film a cookery competition for Spanish TV, Lainey goes too, to cover the story.
Spending a month filming in the stunning Spanish countryside, soaking up the sights, sounds, smells and of course the cuisine, Lainey and Rick start to enjoy each other’s company. But their time together flies by too quickly, and before they know it, Rick and Lainey have to face going their separate ways.
With both their worlds shifting beneath them, the call of Andalucia and the call of happiness grows ever stronger. But with everything at stake, will they be able to take the chance of a happy-ever-after…
Let Lucy Coleman whisk you off on a sun-baked, life-affirming, total escape to beautiful Andalucia.
344 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 1, 2021
883 people are currently reading
496 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Coleman
16 books273 followersLucy Coleman always knew that one day she would write, but first life took her on a wonderful journey of self-discovery for which she is very grateful.
Family life and two very diverse careers later she now spends most days glued to a keyboard, which she refers to as her personal quality time.
'It's only when you know who you are that you truly understand what makes you happy - and writing about love, life and relationships makes me leap out of bed every morning!'
If she isn't online she's either playing with the kids, whose imaginations seem to know no bounds, or painting something. As a serial house mover together with her lovely husband, there is always a new challenge to keep her occupied!
Family life and two very diverse careers later she now spends most days glued to a keyboard, which she refers to as her personal quality time.
'It's only when you know who you are that you truly understand what makes you happy - and writing about love, life and relationships makes me leap out of bed every morning!'
If she isn't online she's either playing with the kids, whose imaginations seem to know no bounds, or painting something. As a serial house mover together with her lovely husband, there is always a new challenge to keep her occupied!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
March 24, 2021
This book appears to be up my alley-a food writer gets the opportunity to cover a food competition located in a monastery in Andalucia,. It's being judged by a famous chef whom she is attracted to! I wish that I could say that I loved it but the descriptions of the area were so thorough that they took me out of the story multiple times. The main characters would be touring a local palace and instead of reading about their chemistry, I read pages of detailed descriptions of the palace. It really read more like a travel brochure. The details were so thorough that I was getting stressed trying to follow them. Once the travel section of the book was over, it was hard to warm to the romance as the heroine Lainey seemed very cold towards the hero Rick.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC in return for my honest review.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for the ARC in return for my honest review.
June 11, 2023
Enjoyable easy to read story starting in London, moving on to Andalusia and then France. Finished reading with my feet up sitting in the sunshine in my garden ☀️Just what I needed ☺️
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up.
3.5 ⭐️ rounded up.
June 2, 2025
Ilma igasuguse iroonia või sarkasmita – just sellist raamatut mul sel hetkel vaja oligi. Midagi rõõmsat, midagi sooja, midagi, mis ühendab toiduarmastuse ja reisimise. „Suvi Andaluusias“ on ideaalne suve alguse lugemine – kerge, maitseküllane ja meeli ergutav.
Peategelane Lainey on kirglik toidugurmaan ja ajakirjanik, kes saab võimaluse teha intervjuu linna ühe enim kõneainet pakkuva uue restorani omanikega. Kohapeal selgub aga, et sära taga peitub tüli – restoranipidajad on omavahel raksus ja atmosfäär kaugel idüllist. Intervjuu ja pildistamine toimuvad küll plaanipäraselt, kuid kui Lainey peab lõpuks artikli valmis kirjutama, kerkib esile küsimus: kas kajastada ausalt ka telgitaguseid või jääda pealispinna juurde?
Enne kui ta lõpliku otsuseni jõuab, saab Lainey ootamatu telefonikõne restorani peakokalt Rickilt. Mees soovib temaga kohtuda, et arutada artiklit ning teeb Laineyle üllatava koostööpakkumise – kutse Andaluusiasse, kus filmitakse uut kokandussaadet. Naine haarab võimalusest kinni ja satub keset päikeselist võtteperioodi, kus teda ootab ees mitte ainult kulinaarne seiklus, vaid ka võimalus kirjutada terve sari artikleid – nii võistlevatest kokkadest kui ka säravast saatejuhist. Küsimus jääb aga õhku: kas see on vaid tööots või saab sellest alguse midagi enamat?
Lisaks meelelahutusele on „Suvi Andaluusias“ ka suurepärane suvine reisieelne lugemine – siin leidub hulgaliselt liikumist, kohalikku kultuuri, visuaalseid maastikukirjeldusi ning loomulikult ohtralt toidukunsti. Ma pole küll ise Andaluusias käinud, ent raamatu põhjal võiks vabalt reisiplaani koostada – sedavõrd kaasahaaravalt on kõik edasi antud. Raamat kui meelelahutus ja giid ühes? Jah, palun!
Toidukirjeldused on tõsimeeli suu vett jooksma panevad. Avastusretked toidumaastikul, aroomid, road ja valmistusprotsessid ärkavad lehekülgedel ellu, justkui nuusutaks ja maitseks neid ise. Kohati on idegi täitsa meeli morjendav, et ise lugedes neid kõiki maitseelamusi nautida ei saa…
Raamatu lõpp võib küll tunduda liigagi positiivne – asjad laabuvad peaaegu uskumatult hästi –, ent sellele toob tasakaalu viide saabunud pandeemiale. Väike realismitahk, mis maandab muidu muinasjutuliku lõpetuse ning tuletab meelde, et elu on ikka elu, koos ootamatuste ja uute algustega.
See on lugu uutest võimalustest, isiklikest ja professionaalsetest valikutest, kirglikust toidust ja suvisest Andaluusiast. Soe, rõõmus ja külluslik lugemine kõigile, kes hindavad elurõõmsat romaani, mille lõhnas on tunda nii oliiviõli kui ka apelsiniõisi.
Peategelane Lainey on kirglik toidugurmaan ja ajakirjanik, kes saab võimaluse teha intervjuu linna ühe enim kõneainet pakkuva uue restorani omanikega. Kohapeal selgub aga, et sära taga peitub tüli – restoranipidajad on omavahel raksus ja atmosfäär kaugel idüllist. Intervjuu ja pildistamine toimuvad küll plaanipäraselt, kuid kui Lainey peab lõpuks artikli valmis kirjutama, kerkib esile küsimus: kas kajastada ausalt ka telgitaguseid või jääda pealispinna juurde?
Enne kui ta lõpliku otsuseni jõuab, saab Lainey ootamatu telefonikõne restorani peakokalt Rickilt. Mees soovib temaga kohtuda, et arutada artiklit ning teeb Laineyle üllatava koostööpakkumise – kutse Andaluusiasse, kus filmitakse uut kokandussaadet. Naine haarab võimalusest kinni ja satub keset päikeselist võtteperioodi, kus teda ootab ees mitte ainult kulinaarne seiklus, vaid ka võimalus kirjutada terve sari artikleid – nii võistlevatest kokkadest kui ka säravast saatejuhist. Küsimus jääb aga õhku: kas see on vaid tööots või saab sellest alguse midagi enamat?
Lisaks meelelahutusele on „Suvi Andaluusias“ ka suurepärane suvine reisieelne lugemine – siin leidub hulgaliselt liikumist, kohalikku kultuuri, visuaalseid maastikukirjeldusi ning loomulikult ohtralt toidukunsti. Ma pole küll ise Andaluusias käinud, ent raamatu põhjal võiks vabalt reisiplaani koostada – sedavõrd kaasahaaravalt on kõik edasi antud. Raamat kui meelelahutus ja giid ühes? Jah, palun!
Toidukirjeldused on tõsimeeli suu vett jooksma panevad. Avastusretked toidumaastikul, aroomid, road ja valmistusprotsessid ärkavad lehekülgedel ellu, justkui nuusutaks ja maitseks neid ise. Kohati on idegi täitsa meeli morjendav, et ise lugedes neid kõiki maitseelamusi nautida ei saa…
Raamatu lõpp võib küll tunduda liigagi positiivne – asjad laabuvad peaaegu uskumatult hästi –, ent sellele toob tasakaalu viide saabunud pandeemiale. Väike realismitahk, mis maandab muidu muinasjutuliku lõpetuse ning tuletab meelde, et elu on ikka elu, koos ootamatuste ja uute algustega.
See on lugu uutest võimalustest, isiklikest ja professionaalsetest valikutest, kirglikust toidust ja suvisest Andaluusiast. Soe, rõõmus ja külluslik lugemine kõigile, kes hindavad elurõõmsat romaani, mille lõhnas on tunda nii oliiviõli kui ka apelsiniõisi.
February 22, 2021
“Summer In Andalucia,” is Lucy Coleman’s answer to armchair travels! With worldwide travel restrictions, some of us are itching for adventure. Coleman serves it up with flair and you’ll be wanting seconds as you turn over the last page!
Lainey Summers doesn’t realize it yet, but the moment she sets foot in Aleatory, in London’s Piccadilly area, her life will never be the same. Not only is there a huge waitlist for this new restaurant, there’s a hot chef and a celebrity silent partner. Lainey writes for a renowned foodie magazine and this is an interview many would wish to have. This might just be the infusion her career needs.
After a less than stellar first experience, chef Rick offers Lainey the opportunity to accompany him to film a cooking competition (think Iron Chef or Bobby Flay) in Andalucia, Spain. She jumps at the chance to work abroad, spend time in the sunshine, soaking up the sights, sounds, and smells, as well as learning about the cuisine. The two get along fabulously and that’s a problem. He’s engaged.
As we all know, Covid-19 has shifted the dining experience and freedom of travel is affected. So it has in Lainey and Rick’s world, too. Their careers in the restaurant field affected, this gives them to perfect chance to press pause and consider their options.
If you love travel and history, or The Game of Thrones, or are a foodie, this book is for you! I promised you’ll be drooling with all the food references in this book. The mention of the Covid virus is at the end of the book and doesn’t detract from this being an escape from our present circumstances. I love that Coleman has written a romance with characters who have moral boundaries and refuse to cheat. Furthermore, she writes about a divorced couple who are trying to make it work again as they’ve never stopped loving each other. I know that love doesn’t always win in real life, but I appreciated the reverence Coleman put on the relationships in this book. It’s a lovely, clean and uplifting romance with a side dish of travel and adventure.
Thank you to Lucy Coleman, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this spectacular advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
Lainey Summers doesn’t realize it yet, but the moment she sets foot in Aleatory, in London’s Piccadilly area, her life will never be the same. Not only is there a huge waitlist for this new restaurant, there’s a hot chef and a celebrity silent partner. Lainey writes for a renowned foodie magazine and this is an interview many would wish to have. This might just be the infusion her career needs.
After a less than stellar first experience, chef Rick offers Lainey the opportunity to accompany him to film a cooking competition (think Iron Chef or Bobby Flay) in Andalucia, Spain. She jumps at the chance to work abroad, spend time in the sunshine, soaking up the sights, sounds, and smells, as well as learning about the cuisine. The two get along fabulously and that’s a problem. He’s engaged.
As we all know, Covid-19 has shifted the dining experience and freedom of travel is affected. So it has in Lainey and Rick’s world, too. Their careers in the restaurant field affected, this gives them to perfect chance to press pause and consider their options.
If you love travel and history, or The Game of Thrones, or are a foodie, this book is for you! I promised you’ll be drooling with all the food references in this book. The mention of the Covid virus is at the end of the book and doesn’t detract from this being an escape from our present circumstances. I love that Coleman has written a romance with characters who have moral boundaries and refuse to cheat. Furthermore, she writes about a divorced couple who are trying to make it work again as they’ve never stopped loving each other. I know that love doesn’t always win in real life, but I appreciated the reverence Coleman put on the relationships in this book. It’s a lovely, clean and uplifting romance with a side dish of travel and adventure.
Thank you to Lucy Coleman, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this spectacular advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
March 21, 2021
I always love picking up a book by Lucy Coleman she is on my list of authors that I know will make me smile with the places she transports me too.
A wonderful story rich in history and perfect for a foodie as there are so many amazing descriptions of dishes and I love how she incorporates food and homegrown product into her stories.
Lainey was a lovely character and I enjoyed following her story, her family had been through tough times and I liked the back story that was included as well as getting to know them in present time.
I found this book easy to fly through as I was intrigued by the growing friendship with Rick and how her 4 weeks in Andalucia would influence her career.
The perfect anecdote when you fancy a light hearted read it left me feeling hopeful and warm and fuzzy.
A wonderful story rich in history and perfect for a foodie as there are so many amazing descriptions of dishes and I love how she incorporates food and homegrown product into her stories.
Lainey was a lovely character and I enjoyed following her story, her family had been through tough times and I liked the back story that was included as well as getting to know them in present time.
I found this book easy to fly through as I was intrigued by the growing friendship with Rick and how her 4 weeks in Andalucia would influence her career.
The perfect anecdote when you fancy a light hearted read it left me feeling hopeful and warm and fuzzy.
February 11, 2021
This is such a fun, lighthearted read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It's the kind of book you'd read during a hot summer day or cold winter time when you're snuggled under a blanket. At certain points though, I think it got a bit boring and had info-dumps happening constantly, which slowed down the pace of the book. But overall, Summer in Andalucia was a really nice read!
(Thanks to Netgalley for the e-ARC!)
(Thanks to Netgalley for the e-ARC!)
August 5, 2021
Disappointing
To be honest I wanted to be immersed into some story in the Spanish monastery on a holiday but it all was about food tasting and photography and I made a promise to myself to DNF any book with random mentions of GOT. I didn't want to watch the TV show and don't want to be reminded of this overrated garbage in every romance novel I pick up.
To be honest I wanted to be immersed into some story in the Spanish monastery on a holiday but it all was about food tasting and photography and I made a promise to myself to DNF any book with random mentions of GOT. I didn't want to watch the TV show and don't want to be reminded of this overrated garbage in every romance novel I pick up.
January 15, 2024
It was a nice easy summery read in this cold weather. Transported me to another country with lots of great descriptions. Now I’ve got to go to Andalucia. Sort of lost interest in the final half of the book as it was kind of predictable.
Rating: 3.5
Rating: 3.5
April 5, 2021
I have been a fan of Lucy’s work for a little while now. I love the fact that her books have travel in them in that you are whisked away from a damp and chilly Britain to a bright and sunny destination, which in this case is Andalucia. I read the synopsis for ‘Summer In Andalucia’ and it certainly sounded like I was in for a treat and then some. So without further ado, I grabbed a cup of tea, grabbed my Kindle and settled down for an afternoon’s reading. I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘Summer in Andalucia’ but more about that in a bit.
It took me next to no time to get into this story. In fact the bright and breezy cover as well as the promise of sunnier climes was enough to draw me in. As soon as I started to read the story that was it. I knew that it was pointless planning to do anything else for the rest of the afternoon as I just couldn’t put the book down for any length of time. It was as though the book had developed a hold over me and it was a hold that I wasn’t willing to break. I would pick he book up only intending to read a couple of chapters to fill in the odd half hour or so but I would become so wrapped up in the story that I would read way more than a couple of chapters. I think that I was enjoying the exotic locations too much (Andalucia may not seem that exotic to some but living in Lockdown Britain anywhere outside of the house is exotic!). I seemed race my way through the story. All too quickly I reached the end of the book and I had to say ‘goodbye’ to the various characters.
‘Summer In Andalucia’ is well written but then that is true of all of Lucy’s work in general. She has one of those writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact, reading one of Lucy’s books seems more like a chat between friends than reading an actual book. I love the way in which she describes the locations in the story so beautifully that if I closed my eyes, it would be easy to imagine that I was there in Andalucia with the sun beating down on my face. I felt as though I was part of the story which is all thanks to Luc’s very vivid and realistic storytelling. I found ‘Summer In Andalucia’ to be a joy to read, which kept my attention throughout and it certainly cheered me up.
In short, I really enjoyed ‘Summer In Andalucia’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Lucy’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
It took me next to no time to get into this story. In fact the bright and breezy cover as well as the promise of sunnier climes was enough to draw me in. As soon as I started to read the story that was it. I knew that it was pointless planning to do anything else for the rest of the afternoon as I just couldn’t put the book down for any length of time. It was as though the book had developed a hold over me and it was a hold that I wasn’t willing to break. I would pick he book up only intending to read a couple of chapters to fill in the odd half hour or so but I would become so wrapped up in the story that I would read way more than a couple of chapters. I think that I was enjoying the exotic locations too much (Andalucia may not seem that exotic to some but living in Lockdown Britain anywhere outside of the house is exotic!). I seemed race my way through the story. All too quickly I reached the end of the book and I had to say ‘goodbye’ to the various characters.
‘Summer In Andalucia’ is well written but then that is true of all of Lucy’s work in general. She has one of those writing styles that is easy to get used to and easy to get along with. In fact, reading one of Lucy’s books seems more like a chat between friends than reading an actual book. I love the way in which she describes the locations in the story so beautifully that if I closed my eyes, it would be easy to imagine that I was there in Andalucia with the sun beating down on my face. I felt as though I was part of the story which is all thanks to Luc’s very vivid and realistic storytelling. I found ‘Summer In Andalucia’ to be a joy to read, which kept my attention throughout and it certainly cheered me up.
In short, I really enjoyed ‘Summer In Andalucia’ and I would recommend it to other readers. I will certainly be reading more of Lucy’s work in the future. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
April 5, 2021
A chance to eat fantastic food and travel to lovely locations Lainey's job as a food writer is idyllic. Meeting celebrity chef Rick at his fashionable restaurant is a memorable experience and not just for the food. The chance to work with Rick in Andalucia is a dream job she can't resist even if she risks getting her heartbroken again.
This story is full of vivid sensory imagery that immerses the reader in the Andalucian culture and history. The characters are relatable, and Lainey is easy to like. Instilled with emotion and romance, Lainey and Rick are the perfect forbidden couple.
There are many thought-provoking ideas woven into the narrative. Such as standing up for your beliefs, living your best life and the importance of family and friends.
This is an enjoyable and heartwarming read.
I received a copy of this book from Boldwood Books via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
April 10, 2021
Another great book by a great author. Loved the romance and writing style. Can't wait to read more by this author.
July 27, 2021
A perfect summer read. I loved the scenery descriptions, and as I was listening the audio version I could picture the vibrant colours of Andalucia. And the food, oh my.
April 7, 2022
This is a fun story about a food magazine writer who covers a cooking competition set in Andalucía, Spain. She has a great time with the Celebrity Chef judge, but since he is engaged to a well known singer she keeps him at arm's length with predictable results. I enjoyed the descriptions of the food, and the setting in southern Spain in Moorish era palaces. Later she ends up in France with her mother who is running a cooking school/retreat center--another fun setting. 3.5 stars
July 18, 2024
4★
very enjoyable summery read
very enjoyable summery read
March 28, 2021
I always love reading a Lucy Coleman book. She transports you to magical places and this time includes wonderful food and a beautiful setting to help entice you into the story. I love how this read is all about the relationships, although the history of the monastery and surrounding areas of Andalucia is fascinating, the main theme is about love - both new and surprising and established and secure.
March 18, 2021
Thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for an advance copy of this book in exchange for a review.
A book based on food and a summer in Andalucia, what could be better? I really enjoyed this very descriptive book - I could almost taste the food and feel the sun on my face.
A lovely escape.
A book based on food and a summer in Andalucia, what could be better? I really enjoyed this very descriptive book - I could almost taste the food and feel the sun on my face.
A lovely escape.
March 17, 2021
Anyone just needs to mention the word "Spain" to me and I am right there wanting to know what has them so excited. I have been hooked on anything Spanish-related since I spoke my first word of Spanish at school, and was SO wanting Lucy Coleman to write a book set in Spain.
Rick and Lainey were such well fleshed-out characters and I really wanted to be on this journey with them.
Summer in Andalucia is a big warm hug of a book with real characters and realistic settings. Lucy Coleman's books are my go-to for traveling without leaving home (and they were way before the Pandemic, too).
Thanks to Lucy Coleman, Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for my my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
5 stars.
Rick and Lainey were such well fleshed-out characters and I really wanted to be on this journey with them.
Summer in Andalucia is a big warm hug of a book with real characters and realistic settings. Lucy Coleman's books are my go-to for traveling without leaving home (and they were way before the Pandemic, too).
Thanks to Lucy Coleman, Rachel's Random Resources and Boldwood Books for my my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review.
5 stars.
November 29, 2022
Disclaimer, I am not the targeted age range for this book, but I've read books in that category before that I really enjoyed. This one was very mediocre.
I will give Coleman credit where credit is due: Her descriptions are wonderful and the plot itself is not one I've seen before. My mother bought me this book as I'd spent a month in Andalucía myself and thought I could relate. Her descriptions of the places the characters visit, as well as the food, are very vivid and I felt I could picture them very well. The love for food that Lainey has does shine through, unfortunately, it needs more emphasis to truly be believed. I can clearly see that she has a talent for food and taste, but I do not feel it. Behind all the fancy words and pretty descriptions, it lacks depth.
That's my main issue with this book: there's no depth. The characters are mostly flat and all sound very similar, with few variations, and so does the dialogue. It's all very matter of fact - there's no proper heart in the romantic moments, at least not one I could really feel. If Coleman had taken the time to work through Rick and Lainey's Characters and relationships more, and just put more emphasis on the romantic, tender moments, that would have been much more believable. When Lainey said she was in love with Rick, I went "huh?". It felt like there was no proper connection in a romantic sense, again, no depth.
I do like the Mom and Dad's relationship, and how it comes full circle, but the ending is awfully rushed. You read a couple pages and suddenly it's the perfect happy end despite Rick having no career, no engagement, etc. They jump from matter of fact talk to romantic deep talk so quickly and with absolutely no feeling.
In conclusion: ultimately boring and kind of shallow. Coleman should apply her skills in object and landscape description to characters and dialogue, because they are barely interesting. Focusing more on the relationship developing, especially AFTER Andalucía, instead of rushing along, would helped immensely. BUT it is a very light and easy read you can pick up and put down, with an interesting premise. I reccomend it as a beach read.
I will give Coleman credit where credit is due: Her descriptions are wonderful and the plot itself is not one I've seen before. My mother bought me this book as I'd spent a month in Andalucía myself and thought I could relate. Her descriptions of the places the characters visit, as well as the food, are very vivid and I felt I could picture them very well. The love for food that Lainey has does shine through, unfortunately, it needs more emphasis to truly be believed. I can clearly see that she has a talent for food and taste, but I do not feel it. Behind all the fancy words and pretty descriptions, it lacks depth.
That's my main issue with this book: there's no depth. The characters are mostly flat and all sound very similar, with few variations, and so does the dialogue. It's all very matter of fact - there's no proper heart in the romantic moments, at least not one I could really feel. If Coleman had taken the time to work through Rick and Lainey's Characters and relationships more, and just put more emphasis on the romantic, tender moments, that would have been much more believable. When Lainey said she was in love with Rick, I went "huh?". It felt like there was no proper connection in a romantic sense, again, no depth.
I do like the Mom and Dad's relationship, and how it comes full circle, but the ending is awfully rushed. You read a couple pages and suddenly it's the perfect happy end despite Rick having no career, no engagement, etc. They jump from matter of fact talk to romantic deep talk so quickly and with absolutely no feeling.
In conclusion: ultimately boring and kind of shallow. Coleman should apply her skills in object and landscape description to characters and dialogue, because they are barely interesting. Focusing more on the relationship developing, especially AFTER Andalucía, instead of rushing along, would helped immensely. BUT it is a very light and easy read you can pick up and put down, with an interesting premise. I reccomend it as a beach read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 19, 2021
Summer in Andalusia will fill your senses with joy as the author takes readers on a trip to Spain. Ms. Coleman’s descriptive prose of Spanish landmarks makes it easy to visualize what her characters are seeing as they move from the UK to Andalusia. Her descriptions of the food will leave you salivating. The novel’s plot will keep you totally engaged. Chef Rick and food writer Lainey discover they have much in common during the filming of a cooking competition in Spain, but he is engaged to a big music star who also is his business partner. The attraction definitely is off limits. This reader greatly appreciated that Lainey’s introspection never deteriorated into full blown angst. Supporting characters are defined and the story rings true. I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book from NetGalley. Most highly recommend.
February 12, 2021
What a treat, in the coldest week of the year, to be transported to Andalucia! I feel like I’ve just been on holiday, Lucy Coleman’s description of the beautiful countryside, historic visitor attractions, the warmth of the sun, the colours, smells and sounds of Andalucia brought the book to life and I felt as though I was curled up under an olive tree in the warm sunshine, while sipping a cold beer and munching tapas......... absolute bliss in these trying times.
I really enjoyed Lainnie and Rick’s story as they danced around their feelings for each other, wondering if their budding friendship would develop into something more, and at times it felt as if fate was working against them.
It was also interesting that the story went completely up to date as towards the end of the book we are in March 2020 when we were at the beginning of this so far, year long, pandemic. So, I would highly recommend that you grab a cool drink, pop the heating on, curl up with this book and imagine that you have been transported to somewhere completely different (at least until the end, when reality rears its head!!)
I really enjoyed Lainnie and Rick’s story as they danced around their feelings for each other, wondering if their budding friendship would develop into something more, and at times it felt as if fate was working against them.
It was also interesting that the story went completely up to date as towards the end of the book we are in March 2020 when we were at the beginning of this so far, year long, pandemic. So, I would highly recommend that you grab a cool drink, pop the heating on, curl up with this book and imagine that you have been transported to somewhere completely different (at least until the end, when reality rears its head!!)
July 28, 2022
Deserved better given the exotic setting and the focus on luxurious food, but instead you come away with a feeling of annoyance at the stilted and unrealistic dialogue, the far too descriptive passages interspaced with sequences where we suddenly fast-forward in time, and no real sense of emotional connection between the protagonists. Also, when you drop pop-cultural references in writing, they need to contribute to the story, and here they most certainly do not, rather the opposite. Have not read anything by this author before but hope for her sake she can do better.
April 3, 2021
If you’re feeling as suffocated as I am after being confined to home for such a long time, I thoroughly recommend Lucy Coleman’s lovely books. This time it’s Andalucia, and I loved every moment of my virtual visit – the Hotel Monasterio de San Francisco in Palma del Rio and the Castle of Almodóvar del Río are now added to my growing bucket list, enticed by the great descriptions that are always a feature of the author’s writing. She has a quite wonderful eye for detail, particularly with the interiors – all the small features that bring a setting to life, with just enough history to fascinate – and it’s something I thoroughly enjoy. And it’s not “only” the wonderful descriptions, but the way she sees the settings through the eyes and emotional responses of her characters – but I think I might just have chosen to climb out of the car with Lainey on those hairpin bends on the approach to the castle too.
But this book is much more than an opportunity for some much needed armchair travel – there’s also an excellent story, with a growing romance at its centre that I very much enjoyed. Lainey is a feature writer at Upscale Dining magazine, who has developed a tentative friendship with chef Rick Oliver after an interview about his new restaurant Aleatory on London’s Green Park. His restaurant is a joint venture with his fiancée Cathy, a volatile and driven singing star whose investment has made the restaurant a reality, so although there’s a spark of chemistry between them she knows there’s no possibility of it being anything more. But when he offers her an exclusive, the opportunity to join him in Spain to cover a televised cookery competition featuring some of Europe’s emerging top chefs, it’s something it’s impossible to refuse.
I have to say that I found reading about all the wonderful food in this book sheer torture – I’m on an 800 calorie a day diet at the moment, and was salivating from the moment Lainey and her photographer were presented with three taster desserts on their initial visit to Aleatory. And my extreme suffering only continued – if the author has a special touch with describing interiors, she certainly also has a particular skill in describing food. This book is a foodie’s dream, as we follow the cookery challenge where the competitors create their own dishes using key ingredients from others that Rick creates. I loved being behind the scenes in the way the book allowed – with all the moments of drama, and the reversals in fortune of the key contenders (all well drawn individual characters).
The initial spark between Lainey and Rick continues to grow when in close proximity and a more informal setting, as they share meals and go exploring together, but Cathy is always the presence (albeit at the end of a phone) that makes anything more impossible. And that’s as far as I’m going to go… for any more, you’ll need to read it!
I very much liked Lainey’s back story too – the changing fortunes of the magazine she works for, her workplace friendships, and her relationship with her estranged parents. Her father was also a journalist, now a writer of best selling books, while her mother now lives in France, running a cookery retreat – and the book explores their relationships, and Lainey’s guilt about the part she might have played in creating the current situation. I will mention too, for those of you averse to the intrusion of the real world in your books, that are some signs of the approaching pandemic in the story’s denouement – but very gently done, and very much part of the story, only making it feel more like real life than it already did.
I read this book in a single sitting (glass of water in hand to stave off the hunger pangs) and must say that I enjoyed every moment. Had you asked me, I might have said that I sometimes prefer the books of Linn B. Halton (the author’s alter ego) to those of Lucy Coleman, but this was the book that changed my mind. The settings, the food, the characters and relationships, the focus on family and friendships, the slow burn romance with an uncertain outcome – everything combined to make this a book I really loved.
But this book is much more than an opportunity for some much needed armchair travel – there’s also an excellent story, with a growing romance at its centre that I very much enjoyed. Lainey is a feature writer at Upscale Dining magazine, who has developed a tentative friendship with chef Rick Oliver after an interview about his new restaurant Aleatory on London’s Green Park. His restaurant is a joint venture with his fiancée Cathy, a volatile and driven singing star whose investment has made the restaurant a reality, so although there’s a spark of chemistry between them she knows there’s no possibility of it being anything more. But when he offers her an exclusive, the opportunity to join him in Spain to cover a televised cookery competition featuring some of Europe’s emerging top chefs, it’s something it’s impossible to refuse.
I have to say that I found reading about all the wonderful food in this book sheer torture – I’m on an 800 calorie a day diet at the moment, and was salivating from the moment Lainey and her photographer were presented with three taster desserts on their initial visit to Aleatory. And my extreme suffering only continued – if the author has a special touch with describing interiors, she certainly also has a particular skill in describing food. This book is a foodie’s dream, as we follow the cookery challenge where the competitors create their own dishes using key ingredients from others that Rick creates. I loved being behind the scenes in the way the book allowed – with all the moments of drama, and the reversals in fortune of the key contenders (all well drawn individual characters).
The initial spark between Lainey and Rick continues to grow when in close proximity and a more informal setting, as they share meals and go exploring together, but Cathy is always the presence (albeit at the end of a phone) that makes anything more impossible. And that’s as far as I’m going to go… for any more, you’ll need to read it!
I very much liked Lainey’s back story too – the changing fortunes of the magazine she works for, her workplace friendships, and her relationship with her estranged parents. Her father was also a journalist, now a writer of best selling books, while her mother now lives in France, running a cookery retreat – and the book explores their relationships, and Lainey’s guilt about the part she might have played in creating the current situation. I will mention too, for those of you averse to the intrusion of the real world in your books, that are some signs of the approaching pandemic in the story’s denouement – but very gently done, and very much part of the story, only making it feel more like real life than it already did.
I read this book in a single sitting (glass of water in hand to stave off the hunger pangs) and must say that I enjoyed every moment. Had you asked me, I might have said that I sometimes prefer the books of Linn B. Halton (the author’s alter ego) to those of Lucy Coleman, but this was the book that changed my mind. The settings, the food, the characters and relationships, the focus on family and friendships, the slow burn romance with an uncertain outcome – everything combined to make this a book I really loved.
April 6, 2021
I always enjoy traveling to beautiful exotic places with Lucy Coleman and she has done it again as she takes us to the historical Andalucia in southern Spain.
Lainey's dream job is about to get better when she is invited to write about a cookery competition in Spain by up-and-coming chef Rick Oliver who she interviewed for her magazine. As she spends more time in the relaxed setting of Andalucia with the handsome and understanding Rick, she starts to rethink her life and career. But Rick is in a relationship with the attractive, volatile, and popular singer, Cathy Clarkson, who calls the shots as the main investor in Rick's new restaurant. So Lainey walks away from a man who breaks her heart only to find more problems at home in the UK that will change her life forever.
Spain is on my bucket list to visit someday and Ms. Coleman has given me more sites to visit. I love the idea of staying in a restored 14th-century monastery and visiting a castle where Games of Thrones was filmed. In addition, it sounds like a very relaxing and laidback atmosphere that just screams vacation destination. And the descriptions of the food, superb!!!
As much as I love the beautiful scenery and decadent food, I could not feel the attraction between Lainey and Rick. I have to admit I am a big fan of alpha males (or at least males that stand up for themselves) and Rick is far from it. His girlfriend Cathy is a bully and he is just plain and simply a wimp. He blows hot and cold with Lainey and I believe she deserves better. I also felt that Lainey was a bit wishy-washy herself and focused too much on her parent's lives rather than her own. As for the ending, it didn't make me feel all warm and fuzzy as Coleman's other books do, so I was a bit disappointed.
Overall, if you are a foodie with a taste for adventure in beautiful southern Spain, this is the book for you.
Thank you to Ms. Coleman for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
Lainey's dream job is about to get better when she is invited to write about a cookery competition in Spain by up-and-coming chef Rick Oliver who she interviewed for her magazine. As she spends more time in the relaxed setting of Andalucia with the handsome and understanding Rick, she starts to rethink her life and career. But Rick is in a relationship with the attractive, volatile, and popular singer, Cathy Clarkson, who calls the shots as the main investor in Rick's new restaurant. So Lainey walks away from a man who breaks her heart only to find more problems at home in the UK that will change her life forever.
Spain is on my bucket list to visit someday and Ms. Coleman has given me more sites to visit. I love the idea of staying in a restored 14th-century monastery and visiting a castle where Games of Thrones was filmed. In addition, it sounds like a very relaxing and laidback atmosphere that just screams vacation destination. And the descriptions of the food, superb!!!
As much as I love the beautiful scenery and decadent food, I could not feel the attraction between Lainey and Rick. I have to admit I am a big fan of alpha males (or at least males that stand up for themselves) and Rick is far from it. His girlfriend Cathy is a bully and he is just plain and simply a wimp. He blows hot and cold with Lainey and I believe she deserves better. I also felt that Lainey was a bit wishy-washy herself and focused too much on her parent's lives rather than her own. As for the ending, it didn't make me feel all warm and fuzzy as Coleman's other books do, so I was a bit disappointed.
Overall, if you are a foodie with a taste for adventure in beautiful southern Spain, this is the book for you.
Thank you to Ms. Coleman for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
April 9, 2021
I have read some of Lucy Coleman's books previously and although The Villa of Dreams is still my favorite novel, I still enjoyed this one.
Like with the previous books I have read, Lucy Coleman take us to another place. In this story we follow the characters to Andalucia. The thing I absolutely love about this author's books is that transportation element. We travel to amazing places, without leaving our home, which considering the current situation with the world, it's just what we need.
We follow Lainey in this new journey and I quite liked her. I could see her passion towards her job and food, and that always something amazing to connect with. The interactions with the characters and the background of Lainey's life made sense to me and allowed me to understand her more.
Speaking of food... Something fantastic about this book was the culinary element. It made me excited about cooking, and I actually ended up reading some parts of the book while cooking dinner. I love when a book, no matter the genre, has food in it. If it makes sense for the plot, like this story, it's the perfect combination. And Lucy Coleman definitely did that with the romance, the food and the scenery.
Overall, I enjoyed it. The Villa of Dreams may have a special place in my heart, but Summer in Andalucia won me over with the descriptions and the culinary.
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Lucy Coleman for the eCopy of this book, via Netgalley and for allowing me to join in the fun and being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.]
Like with the previous books I have read, Lucy Coleman take us to another place. In this story we follow the characters to Andalucia. The thing I absolutely love about this author's books is that transportation element. We travel to amazing places, without leaving our home, which considering the current situation with the world, it's just what we need.
We follow Lainey in this new journey and I quite liked her. I could see her passion towards her job and food, and that always something amazing to connect with. The interactions with the characters and the background of Lainey's life made sense to me and allowed me to understand her more.
Speaking of food... Something fantastic about this book was the culinary element. It made me excited about cooking, and I actually ended up reading some parts of the book while cooking dinner. I love when a book, no matter the genre, has food in it. If it makes sense for the plot, like this story, it's the perfect combination. And Lucy Coleman definitely did that with the romance, the food and the scenery.
Overall, I enjoyed it. The Villa of Dreams may have a special place in my heart, but Summer in Andalucia won me over with the descriptions and the culinary.
[I want to thank Rachel, at Rachel’s Random Resources, and Lucy Coleman for the eCopy of this book, via Netgalley and for allowing me to join in the fun and being a part of the blog tour with my honest review of the book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.]
April 13, 2021
Lainey is a food writer and visits chef Rick Oliver to interview him and whilst, she is there, she is party to a disagreement between Rick and his partner Cathy Clarkson. Rick calls Lainey and asks to meet with her to set things right. She agrees to amend her article and Rick is very grateful.
Lainey loves food but has got out of practice cooking, but loves to be cooked for. So when she gets the opportunity to go to Aleatory Rick’s restaurant she jumps at the chance.
Cathy and Rick are very different and she is a celebrity in her own right and she has her own list of A list friends that she brings to the restaurant on the night that Lainey is there. Lainey notices that Cathy is not wearing Rick’s engagement ring and tries to find out more about the party. One of her colleagues finds a picture of Cathy cosied up to another man which has since been deleted.
Then Rick asks Lainey to visit him at his flat and he has injured himself they spend the evening together and Rick has a proposition for Lainey which involves travelling to Andalucia.
Lainey manages to persuade Thomas her boss that it will be great for the magazine, with Rick and Cathy’s relationship seeming to be more volatile by the week will they be able to continue with their partnership ?
I really enjoyed this book, it is a foodie’s delight, it made me hungry just reading it. I enjoyed the dynamics between Rick and Lainey and it was cold and wintery day, when I read this and a trip to the sunshine was wonderful. The monastery is gorgeous and it was a fantastic setting for the competition.
A cosy and pleasant read that took me on my travels which was very welcome at this time.
Lainey loves food but has got out of practice cooking, but loves to be cooked for. So when she gets the opportunity to go to Aleatory Rick’s restaurant she jumps at the chance.
Cathy and Rick are very different and she is a celebrity in her own right and she has her own list of A list friends that she brings to the restaurant on the night that Lainey is there. Lainey notices that Cathy is not wearing Rick’s engagement ring and tries to find out more about the party. One of her colleagues finds a picture of Cathy cosied up to another man which has since been deleted.
Then Rick asks Lainey to visit him at his flat and he has injured himself they spend the evening together and Rick has a proposition for Lainey which involves travelling to Andalucia.
Lainey manages to persuade Thomas her boss that it will be great for the magazine, with Rick and Cathy’s relationship seeming to be more volatile by the week will they be able to continue with their partnership ?
I really enjoyed this book, it is a foodie’s delight, it made me hungry just reading it. I enjoyed the dynamics between Rick and Lainey and it was cold and wintery day, when I read this and a trip to the sunshine was wonderful. The monastery is gorgeous and it was a fantastic setting for the competition.
A cosy and pleasant read that took me on my travels which was very welcome at this time.
April 2, 2021
Precisely the treat I thought it would be!
Lainey Summers has worked hard to get to where she is as food writer for an upmarket foodie magazine. She has made her career her priority - and she's not finished yet. When she goes to a new restaurant to interview the head chef, she has no idea it's going to lead to a summer in a monastery in Spain, following Rick as he heads up a new cookery competition to be broadcast in Spain and featured in the magazine. As they spend time together both during filming and in their down time, Lainey and Rick grow closer but all too soon it's back to the day job for both of them. However, life doesn't stand still and with them both facing changes and new challenges, do they have a future?
I love it when I have a Lucy Coleman book on my list as I know I'm in for a good time when I finally reach it. The research involved must be quite daunting as she has the knack of describing foreign parts as the most desirable place to be and I learn so much about the people, the countryside, the culture and the cuisine. As we near the end of lockdown and everyone is quite desperate to get out of their homes, this is an easy gateway to all the benefits of a trip abroad before it's actually possible to board a plane! The heat, the smells and the senses are beautifully conveyed and there is an amazing cast of characters to get to know and learn all about. An absolutely delightful read which will bring a smile not only to your face but also to your heart. 4.5* and my sparkling recommendation.
Lainey Summers has worked hard to get to where she is as food writer for an upmarket foodie magazine. She has made her career her priority - and she's not finished yet. When she goes to a new restaurant to interview the head chef, she has no idea it's going to lead to a summer in a monastery in Spain, following Rick as he heads up a new cookery competition to be broadcast in Spain and featured in the magazine. As they spend time together both during filming and in their down time, Lainey and Rick grow closer but all too soon it's back to the day job for both of them. However, life doesn't stand still and with them both facing changes and new challenges, do they have a future?
I love it when I have a Lucy Coleman book on my list as I know I'm in for a good time when I finally reach it. The research involved must be quite daunting as she has the knack of describing foreign parts as the most desirable place to be and I learn so much about the people, the countryside, the culture and the cuisine. As we near the end of lockdown and everyone is quite desperate to get out of their homes, this is an easy gateway to all the benefits of a trip abroad before it's actually possible to board a plane! The heat, the smells and the senses are beautifully conveyed and there is an amazing cast of characters to get to know and learn all about. An absolutely delightful read which will bring a smile not only to your face but also to your heart. 4.5* and my sparkling recommendation.
April 6, 2021
Are you ready to take a trip to the Spanish sun?
Because Lucy Coleman will delight you with a beautiful and sweet story around cooking and the historical Andalusia, believe me, you’ll need sunglasses!
This is a slow paced story, with a little bit of romance, culinary experience and family love; this is the story of Lainey Summers; she will be “enchanted” by a famous chef, Rick Oliver, but their relation will not be easy, are you ready to travel with them to Andalusia?
I have to say that I didn’t feel much connection between the characters; there’s a lot of descriptions about their travels but not how they feel between each other or if it’s just a one sided relationship. I’ll admit that my favorite part is when they are both filming the culinary program and the pressure they feel, it was like being there! If you love food, you’ll be delighted with all the dishes (and descriptions) that Lainey makes of Rick’s creations, it made me really hungry and I would love to be able to replicate them.
Also, it was interesting how the author mixed up the pandemic at the end of the book, I think this is the first time I’ve read it, she made it quite simple but shared the difficulty of traveling, shortage of work and isolation; the need to keep active with small jobs to make life more easy.
If you need some sunshine and love, this is your book, believe me.
Are you ready for a “Summer in Andalucia”?
Because Lucy Coleman will delight you with a beautiful and sweet story around cooking and the historical Andalusia, believe me, you’ll need sunglasses!
This is a slow paced story, with a little bit of romance, culinary experience and family love; this is the story of Lainey Summers; she will be “enchanted” by a famous chef, Rick Oliver, but their relation will not be easy, are you ready to travel with them to Andalusia?
I have to say that I didn’t feel much connection between the characters; there’s a lot of descriptions about their travels but not how they feel between each other or if it’s just a one sided relationship. I’ll admit that my favorite part is when they are both filming the culinary program and the pressure they feel, it was like being there! If you love food, you’ll be delighted with all the dishes (and descriptions) that Lainey makes of Rick’s creations, it made me really hungry and I would love to be able to replicate them.
Also, it was interesting how the author mixed up the pandemic at the end of the book, I think this is the first time I’ve read it, she made it quite simple but shared the difficulty of traveling, shortage of work and isolation; the need to keep active with small jobs to make life more easy.
If you need some sunshine and love, this is your book, believe me.
Are you ready for a “Summer in Andalucia”?
August 18, 2021
This gets my 4 star rating because it hits all of my requirements:
1) above average writing quality
2) engaging and believeable characters and story
3) something extra that's substantial, unusual, and interesting
1) One telling detail that's important to me, but may be of little more than passing interest to others, is the notable absence of errors. For example, I'm particularly sensitive to homonym errors, which are all too common in these days of self-publishing. Several of the most common ones trigger automatic double-checks in my reading, and in every case, when I encountered one of those in this book, the correct homonym was used. What a pleasure to see such good craftsmanship for a change!
2) I was worried for a while, as another of my pet peeves is people who are not honest and up-front with their prospective partner. In this case, however, I found the lack of key communication credible and justifiable, if frustrating.
3) I found the descriptions of great food and great location informative and irresistible (if occasionally a bit long). Another point of interest (which may be less so in future) was the use of the current epidemic to further resolution of the plot. Timing is everything...
This may not be the best 4-star book I ever read, but it's a worthy entry. Enjoy!
1) above average writing quality
2) engaging and believeable characters and story
3) something extra that's substantial, unusual, and interesting
1) One telling detail that's important to me, but may be of little more than passing interest to others, is the notable absence of errors. For example, I'm particularly sensitive to homonym errors, which are all too common in these days of self-publishing. Several of the most common ones trigger automatic double-checks in my reading, and in every case, when I encountered one of those in this book, the correct homonym was used. What a pleasure to see such good craftsmanship for a change!
2) I was worried for a while, as another of my pet peeves is people who are not honest and up-front with their prospective partner. In this case, however, I found the lack of key communication credible and justifiable, if frustrating.
3) I found the descriptions of great food and great location informative and irresistible (if occasionally a bit long). Another point of interest (which may be less so in future) was the use of the current epidemic to further resolution of the plot. Timing is everything...
This may not be the best 4-star book I ever read, but it's a worthy entry. Enjoy!
April 4, 2021
This is a real escape from lockdown! Lainey is a talented journalist whose path crosses with Rick, a celebrity chef who co-owns the exclusive restaurant, Aleatory, with his fiancee, the volatile Cathy. Despite an obvious spark, Lainey spends most of the book trying to stay in the friend’s zone. Rick offers Lainey the chance to cover a cookery competition he is starring in in Andalucia and we escape to the sunshine with them. The setting is beautifully evoked and you are always aware of the fantastic environment, with its colour and scents, as well as the glorious food which is produced. It is one for the senses.
I also enjoyed Lainey's own backstory, through her relationship with both her parents which has impacted on her more than she realises. Her life at the magazine is also not secure and her friendships with her colleagues add to your overall view of her. Lainey is career driven at the outset. As the story evolves, she begins to question her ambitions. Friendships and family, following your dreams and a slow burn romance all come together to make a great read.
In short: A slow burn romance with lovely characterisation and sense of place
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
I also enjoyed Lainey's own backstory, through her relationship with both her parents which has impacted on her more than she realises. Her life at the magazine is also not secure and her friendships with her colleagues add to your overall view of her. Lainey is career driven at the outset. As the story evolves, she begins to question her ambitions. Friendships and family, following your dreams and a slow burn romance all come together to make a great read.
In short: A slow burn romance with lovely characterisation and sense of place
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
April 27, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley, the publishing house and the author for the opportunity to read an advance reader copy of this book in return for a review based upon my honest opinion.
In these days when we cannot travel, this author has taken us to Andalucia and the surrounding area for a foodie adventure. Lainey Summers is a food writer for a magazine and ends up being offered a dream trip following famed chef, Rick Oliver to Andalucia as he runs a cooking competition tv show. She is instantly smitten with Rick but he is engaged to his business partner and famous musician, Cathy. Lucy tries not to fall for him but the sun, the food, the wine and the atmosphere leaves her fantasizing about someone she cannot have. When the filming is over, and she returns home, she finds things not as secure as she thought in her job. Lucy has hard decisions to make and tried to get over Rick and the connection she is sure he felt as well.
The characters were enjoyable and the scenery lovely. I enjoyed the descriptions of the surroundings as well as all of the delicious food. Great summer read! Live this author’s books.
In these days when we cannot travel, this author has taken us to Andalucia and the surrounding area for a foodie adventure. Lainey Summers is a food writer for a magazine and ends up being offered a dream trip following famed chef, Rick Oliver to Andalucia as he runs a cooking competition tv show. She is instantly smitten with Rick but he is engaged to his business partner and famous musician, Cathy. Lucy tries not to fall for him but the sun, the food, the wine and the atmosphere leaves her fantasizing about someone she cannot have. When the filming is over, and she returns home, she finds things not as secure as she thought in her job. Lucy has hard decisions to make and tried to get over Rick and the connection she is sure he felt as well.
The characters were enjoyable and the scenery lovely. I enjoyed the descriptions of the surroundings as well as all of the delicious food. Great summer read! Live this author’s books.
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