Isabel Broom’s novels are like a bug in a book. The wonderfully descriptive prose transports you to a beautiful location - this time Lake Como - and takes you on a heartwarming journey with the characters.

In The Place We Met, we meet Taggie and Lucy. Taggie is working at the Casa Alta hotel as a tour guide. She’s rushed off her feet but finds this is the distraction she needs from the life she left behind in England. Meanwhile Lucy has just arrived in Lake Como with Pete, her perfect new boyfriend. Everything about Pete feels right to Lucy and that life is about to start for her, but with New Years Eve approaching, Taggie and Lucy meet by chance and it seems that Lake Como isn’t the place for new beginnings.

I’ve read all of Isabelle’s novels and they just keep getting better. From the first few chapters you feel such an affiliation with both Taggie and Lucy and the story unfolds beautifully. The descriptions of Lake Como are breathtaking and you can easily imagine yourself there waking in their footsteps. Plus the addition of an Italian stallion never goes amiss :-)

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and recommend it to everyone. Thank you to NetGalley, Penguin UK Michael Joseph and the author for the chance to review.

Review will be up on Publication Day 30/11 on my blog: thecosiestcorner.blogspot.com

What a delightful and romantic story set in Italy by Isabelle Broom. This particular novel surrounds two main characters - Taggie and Lucy. Taggie is over in Italy working for a hotel and Lucy is on holiday with her new boyfriend, Pete.

When I read the synopsis of this book, I so wanted to read it! It sounded so intriguing and even from the synopsis I thought it would be a difficult one to put down - and I wasn't wrong. The location of Lake Como is important for both ladies, it's somewhere that means a lot to them, so of course when they're thinking of somewhere to escape to, they both think of Lake Como - where it holds happy memories for them both.

Taggie is a tour guide for a hotel in Lake Como, but is hoping for a promotion. She has just come out of a relationship, but we don't know who it was with until nearer the end of the book. Marco takes a shine to Taggie and at first she dislikes his attention, however he does start to grow on her... Lucy works at a busy A&E in London and decides that a break to Lake Como with new boyfriend Pete will be for the best. They are both so excited to be going on holiday together and Lucy thinks that he is The One.

However, things don't go to plan, and as the two women meet, they soon realise why things didn't work out. Pete acts rather wildly to seeing Taggie and Lucy is determined to find out why. Such an interesting read that I really couldn't put down - I was so determined to get to the bottom of Pete's strange ways! The descriptions of Lake Como sound absolutely beautiful and I found myself eager to take a trip to Lake Como myself!

I would highly recommend you give this book a read, you'll regret it otherwise! Thank you Netgalley and to the publisher for a chance to read this novel, which I have reviewed honestly.

So to briefly sum up, this is another captivating read by Isabella Broom. The Place We Met manages to sweep the reader of their feet and land them in a tale that is both heartbreaking and heartwarming, while also being delicious enough to curl with a hot chocolate.

The Place We Met is a tale of two women - Taggie who is determined to forget about the past and focus on her skills on organising big events. And Lucy who just wants the perfect relationship with her boyfriend. Both women are led to Lake Como - a place that holds special meaning from their childhoods.

This book is pretty close to perfect, especially as the setting is so idyllic (Italy is one of my favourite places to visit). And we are set in Christmas time, which means Snow and fun Chrissmassy things which makes me very happy.

But for all the light and funny moments in this tale, there is a lot of dark moments. And my heart nearly broke at the end. When everything was revealed. The Place We Met shows the art of deception. Because how the book started to how it ended, I really was not expecting that.

This is a story about love, loss and heartbreak. But it is also a book about accepting yourselves and allowing yourself to heal. This is a beautiful read and one that I cannot wait to read again.

Books that are set in Italy are ones that I love to read and luckily this book did not disappoint. It is presented from two characters points of view - Taggie and Lucy. Both of them spent time in Como as children. They have had issues with relationships in the past. I really enjoyed this book.

This is my third book by Ms Broom and the level of writing has not dipped! An ARC copy gifted by the marvellous folk at netgalley and Penguin UK/Michael Joseph

The cover art is beautiful and gives the reader a bit of a travellers pang before we even get into this story about two damaged women and the post Christmas holiday period one very fateful year that brings them into a collision.

Lucy and Taggie are more similar than they might like to accept and not because of the links that are gradually and skilfully revealed as this story unfolds. I had cottoned onto the intertwined storylines before they were unfurled but this did not detract from the skilful way Isabelle leads us down the path to revelation.

I like the way Isabelle Broom makes all the characters human. Sometimes you want to beat them, sometimes you want to give them a cuddle, but mostly you want them to communicate with each other! As is often the way the trauma of the plot is really about fear of judgement and a lack of clarity of thought, and expression. Love is a complicated knot to untangle when things begin to fray.

The lake setting is just glorious and you can taste that spicy hot wine, smell the tang of the lake and feel the cold of a traditional Italian New Year. The dark sexy Italian love interest could have become the biggest of clichés for a book of this kind, but shhhhh, don’t tell anyone, as it might destroy my image of a sister in feminist solidarity - Marco was my favourite character, a point of peace and serenity in the midst of the maelstrom of emotions at play here.

With a very satisfying but realistic ending for all concerned that left me with a happy smile , this is another book from Ms Broom that I can wholeheartedly and honestly recommend mend for anyone who enjoys some grit in their romances, some local colour in their dramatic fiction and some quirky minor characters to complete the deal.

A beautifully written book that takes you from the bustle of London to the shores of Lake Como. Taggie Torres is planning a new year's eve party at the hotel in which she works as a tour guide. For her, Como is a place of escape, and a place of happy childhood memories. For Lucy it is a chance to spend time with her boyfriend in a bid to make him happy. But behind the masks are secrets that cannot be kept hidden. This is a love story on many levels.
As per Isabelle Broom's other books, she takes you to the shores of the lake, it is as if you are there. The description is perfect, without being intrusive. It is an essential part of the plot. A lovely book - highly recommended.

This book captivated me with its wonderful, evocative descriptions about Como in Italy. The setting was so detailed, it was like the author was writing her own love letter to the place. The two main female characters were well drawn and likeable. The story is told from Lucy and Taggie's point of view. I did start to guess where the story was leading but had to keep reading to see how the characters grew. I loved this book and couldn't put it down. Marco was a likeable hero too. I liked that all the characters had flaws which they started to recognise. They didn't shy away from their faults but owned them by the end of the book. A beautiful and satisfying romantic book. Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for letting me review this book.

I really do think the Tourist Boards in the places featured in Isabelle's novels owe her big time. Again, her descriptions of the scenery make you just want to hop on a plane straightaway. Sights and sounds are depicted perfectly, immersing the reader into the surroundings of the story.

We have two protagonists in The Place We Met, Taggie and Lucy, two strangers whose stories entwine in the beautiful setting of the Italian lakes. They are two very different women; Taggie, determined not to let herself be hurt by anyone ever again, and Lucy, who is in the first flushes of romance with her boyfriend, Pete.

As ever, one of the book's strong points is the supporting cast; the elderly Elsie, a strong-willed lady with a rebellious streak; Taggie's friend and co-worker, Shelley; the hilarious couple Gladys and Will-yum, and of course our dark, brooding hero, Marco. Each character is written with such care and depth, we feel we know them instantly.

Heartbreak, jealousy, determination... it's all here, written with the author's usual humour and warmth, resulting in a story that is heartwarming, romantic and uplifting, tugging at the emotions.

Now where are we going next, Isabelle?

Another new setting for Isabelle Broom, and this time it's the idyllic shores of Lake Como. There are two romances at the heart of the story, plus the usual wise older woman and various other characters. This is the third book I have read by this author and there are some similarities with previous novels. However, it is well written and both characters and location are beautifully described. The plot is a bit predictable but this is still a good holiday read.

Yet another beautiful novel from Isabelle Broom, who just seems to be getting better and better.

This time the setting is Lake Como. I’ve never been there, but her imagery is so vivid, I could picture it perfectly in my mind.

The story moves between three central characters, Taggie, Pete and Lucy. She has managed to draw three characters so real, that the reader can’t help but care about them and what happens to them.

I knew their lives were intertwined somewhere, but I wasn’t quite sure in exactly what way, and it makes for a very intruiging and enticing read.

As the story moves towards New Year’s Eve, their lives intersect and everything comes to a head.

Another must read from Isabelle Broom, captivating and sparkling.

I laughed, I cried and I was happy and sad. This book had me engrossed the whole way through. Isabelle Broom really knows how to write a book that brings people to life. It was so easy to imagine every character and to get caught up in their lives, this is escapism at its best.

What more can you want? A beautiful setting, accurately described, interesting characters and a good storyline.

Very good. Enjoyed it start to finish. Whilst reading this it felt like I was transported to the setting as the descriptions were so clear and vivid. Also her books are masters of deception as you think you are about to read some light piece but turn out something more substantial as the story reaches its conclusion. Highly recommend.

Loved this book!
The story of Taggie who has moved to Como, interwoven with the story of Lucy and Pete on holiday there.
Really well written and keeps you guessing till the end of the book.

I would like to thank Penguin UK-Michael Joseph and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read ‘The Place We Met’ by Isabelle Broom in exchange for my honest and unbiased review.
Taggie is working as a tour guide at the Casa Alta hotel at Lake Como hoping to get over a failed relationship in London. Lucy, a nurse in a busy hospital in London, has booked a holiday at Lake Como as a New Year surprise for herself and her new boyfriend Pete.
When Taggie’s friend Marco accidently hits her in the face Lucy springs to her aid, but Taggie has a secret and meeting with Lucy and Pete is her worst nightmare.
‘The Place We Met’ has been well written and I liked how Taggie and Lucy had alternate chapters telling readers of their past and present. Isabelle Broom’s description of Lake Como is so powerfully vibrant that I now want to spend some time there myself. I became engrossed with each character and guessed Taggie’s secret towards the end. I was so pleased there was a happy ending to this delightful novel, when I finished reading I was left with a warm glow.

The Place We Met
Isabelle Broom
My Review: ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

The place we met is the 3rd Isabelle Broom book I have read, and it's safe to say I'm a fan. Her books are always set in beautiful landscapes and tell an intertwined story.

The place we met is set in Italy and tells the story of two women.

Taggie has moved to Lake Como and works in a hotel. She organises and runs events for the hotel guests. She isn't looking for Prince Charming but keeps playing the role of the damsel. Marco is a tall handsome Italian man. He plays Taggie's rescuer whether she likes it or not. She needs a friend and Marco is slowly growing on her. Most women fall at his feet but she refuses to be one of those women.

Lucy is unlucky in love. She wants to find a man to sweep her off her feet. She has been dating Pete for 5 months now. Everything is still new but seems to be going well. Lucy works in a busy hospital and doesn't get much time off. She decides to book a romantic holiday to Lake Como. She hopes they will have the opportunity to spend some quality time together instead of short stints.

The location is a childhood happy memory for both leading ladies. This is a bittersweet story about finding peace.

5 stars out of 5.

*ARC received in exchange for a fair review*


Paperback £7.99 or £4.99 Kindle Price.

Expected publication: November 30th, 2017 by Michael Joseph.

This is the third Isabelle Broom book that I have read and it had me hooked from start to finish.

Taggy has run away to Lake Como after a heartbreaking experience to try to get her life back to normal, it’s the one place that she feels safe as she used to holiday there as a child.

Lucy has arranged a holiday to Lake Como for her and her boyfriend Pete over the New Year period, as she has happy memories of when her family visited each summer.

The story is told from Taggy and Lucy’s point of view, when they meet at Lake Como they feel they have met before but cannot recollect from where.

Taggy is strong minded with a controlling vibe that likes to do things her way whereas Lucy is kindhearted and caring, she tends to put everyone else first. Can these two different women get their happy ever after.

This is an excellent book set in a beautiful location, the way the author describes Lake Como makes you wish you were there especially on New Year’s Eve as the fireworks explode over the lake. Isabelle Broom weaves a tale of love, loss and heartbreak but with a light at the end of the tunnel. I would recommend this book

Another beauty from Isabelle Broom.

Two parallel stories had my interest from the outset -- and Isabelle Broom weaves her story to leave you wanting just one more chapter. All the characters felt very real and you could put yourself in their shoes...

Whilst it doesn't have the poignancy of Then.Now.Always, this book is a beauty, with the astounding scenery of Lake Como as a backdrop.

A lovely and heartwarming book that shows two different people how to overcome their unhappiness and how the past doesn't always shape your future

5*

The Place We Met is set both in London and Lake Como, with our main protagonists Agatha and Lucy, finding centre stage within the beautiful landscapes of Como. Broom's work transports you to the Italian delights, the reader feels like they are walking alongside the characters. A tale woven with love, loss and heartbreak it was one I couldn't put down. Broom highlights that we are all the makers of our own destiny as long as we stay true to ourselves. I thoroughly enjoyed The Place We Met a heartwarming, humorous and unforgettable read.

Thanks to Netgalley and Penguin UK - Michael Joseph for the copy in exchange for my honest review.

The Place We Met
This is the most beautiful creation by Isabelle Broom to date.
I loved every single carefully chosen word of it.
Once again as in all of Isabelle's books, the destination is almost a character in itself. The setting is the most gorgeous Lake Como where I have visited before but I wish I could go again now I've read the book as you could almost use it as an itinerary for a wonderful holiday. The authentic descriptions being these amazing to life and I felt I was there living this story along with the characters.
The story is told from two points of view first from Taggie who is living and working in a posh hotel in Lake Como following a nasty break up and also Lucy who is a nurse and has decided to treat her boyfriend Pete to a holiday in Lake Como. Their beautifully told stories are skilfully woven together and will take you through every emotion possible. By the end I felt emotionally drained but in a good way and I actually felt lovely after having read it. This could actually be my favourite book of all time. The characters were all lovable especially Elsie the old lady who had made Italy her home many years before and had known Taggie since she was very small.

Once again as with all Isabelle's books when I get to read the title in the book it gives me sentimental shivers down my spine. This will make you laugh out loud and cry your heart out in equal measures. I love this book so much I want to sleep with it under my pillow.
Well done again to Isabelle and thanks to Michael Joseph Penguin for the arc which I've reviewed voluntarily. X