Truly, Madly, Greekly in Ask Sara Alexi

May 21, 2015 Kath rated it it was amazing

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I am on holiday from work but sadly not anywhere nearly as beautiful as the place depicted in this novel but I really could imagine myself poolside with this book. I read it in one sitting which is why it is about half one in the afternoon and I'm still in my sleepshirt - I really didn't want to stop reading!
It tells the story of two (half) sisters who have gone on a recce to a hotel where the younger, Lacey, wants to get married. Ellen, the "sensible" sis I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. I am on holiday from work but sadly not anywhere nearly as beautiful as the place depicted in this novel but I really could imagine myself poolside with this book. I read it in one sitting which is why it is about half one in the afternoon and I'm still in my sleepshirt - I really didn't want to stop reading!
It tells the story of two (half) sisters who have gone on a recce to a hotel where the younger, Lacey, wants to get married. Ellen, the "sensible" sister is her rather reluctant companion and from early on in the book we find out that she has some hidden work/personal worries which distract her somewhat. Whilst Lacey throws herself into "all things holiday" all Ellen wants to do is sit by the pool and read (and what is wrong with that!?!) but she is singled out by Yan, one of the animation team, and he coaxes her out of her shell and comfort zone. Lacey meanwhile is getting attention from Sergei, another animation team member, and Ellen warns her off him. But is the older sister going to take her own advice regarding holiday romances?
One of the things I really loved about this book is the author's ability to transport the reader into the location. As I was reading, I could see it all so clearly in my head it was almost like I was there watching the action live from my own poolside lounger. I also liked the way that the scenes were written from alternating POVs switching between the characters so seamlessly that it was very easy to follow.
The characters, and believe me, there are some characters in this book, were very realistic and easy to emote with. Many of the characters grow, develop and change personally during the book and my opinion of and feelings toward them changed as the book progressed. I like it when that happens!
It's a book about romance, but it is also very much a book about families. About our perception of our own place in a family and how it is sometimes so far from the reality. About secrets and trust, resentments and bonding with a little soul-searching thrown in. In that way, it's a book that can be read on a deeper level if the reader wants to.
There's love, laughter, intrigue, crying, shouting, frustration, sadness and tragedy in this book - and believe me, I went through them all too!
If you like your romance with a great story and a little bit of grit and depth set in a beautiful place then this is the book for you. This is the first book I have read by this author and I will certainly be having a look out for more.

I received a free ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. ...more

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Nov 24, 2023 Alan rated it it was amazing · review of another edition

Loved the story line so gave it full marks. Like the style and flow from this author. A nice comfortable read and left me yearn to be in Greece once again.

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Jun 11, 2016 Sarah Chesney rated it really liked it

First read of a Mandy Baggott book and I think I'll be back for more.
Easy going summer read, beautifully described scenes and characters. I also liked how dialogue changed between characters in each chapter (this may be her normal style of writing). Was a bit predictable in places but that's the joy of a good beach book. ...more

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Oct 15, 2020 Catherine rated it it was amazing

Loved this book. Very enjoyable after all the historical fiction I’ve been reading which inevitably involves conflicts. So a light, readable story was just what I needed. Didn’t want to put the book down and looking forward to reading more of this authors stories. I’ve already started on “Those Summer Nights.

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Apr 18, 2015 Julie Haigh marked it as to-read

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Aug 24, 2015 Stephanie Wood rated it really liked it

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Jul 14, 2024 Stella Paralia marked it as to-read

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