NEW RELEASE
Wish You Were Here - Victoria Connelly (2013)
Alice Archer is and always has been something of a Plain Jane, fading into the background compared to her younger sister, Stella. When Stella's latest boyfriend breaks up with her, she reluctantly asks Alice to accompany her on their planned holiday to the Greek island of Kethos. As Stella lazes by the pool, Alice immerses herself into the island venturing to the Villa Argenti where she meets local gardener Milo. It is said that the statue of Aphrodite housed in the garden of the Villa grants wishes for love and Alice nonchalantly wishes that men really notice her. But wishes can't really come true, can they? I'm not really much of a fan of magical or supernatural plot elements so I was a bit apathetic towards the direction this novel moved with the wish plot, particularly as I found the novel, the characters and particularly the predicament of Alice and her relationship with Stella engrossing enough. However, the magic adds something whimsical and lively and contributes to the enchanting feel of the novel. A nice summer read. (JC)
Sun, sea and secrets is at the heart of Victoria Connelly's latest novel Wish You Were Here. The summary says: "A week on the sunny Greek island of Kethos is just what Alice Archer needs, even if she has to put up with her difficult sister. Stella's tantrums and diva-like demands are a fair price to pay for crystal-clear waters, blue skies and white clifftop villas. When Alice meets Milo, a handsome gardener at the Villa Argenti, for the first time she suddenly feels beautiful, alluring and confident. But is it just holiday magic or will the irresistible pull between Alice and Milo survive against all odds?"