Seren has left working in London for her domineering father and is working in a Lisbon library. She meets Reid an artist who she develops feelings for but he has a very complicated life

A little sunshine and warmth on a cold winter's day are always welcome. This romantic tale of compromise, dreams and love, takes you on an emotional angst-ridden journey full of heartwarming romance that leaves you uplifted.

Seren decides that striving for her father's approval is a fool's errand and finally leaves England to follow her dreams in Lisbon, Portugal. She wants to develop her art and works towards the dream by organising and event that incorporates many aspects of the creative world. Love is not on her agenda, but fate has other ideas when she meets Reid, a recent divorcee and artist. Both are emotionally damaged and driven by their career project, yet the chemistry is undeniable, but is a Summer love strong enough to withstand the Winter of reality?

This is a story about dreams and how they can change and having the courage and insight to chase what makes you happy whatever the consequences.

I received a copy of this book from Boldwood Books via NetGalley in return for an honest review.

The Villa of Dreams became exactly that! I loved how Lucy described everything in detail - it felt as though I was seeing these things in reality. It is a beautifully told story of love, life and dreams.

This book turned out a good read in the end. It took a while to get going but all was good in the end. It is set in Portugal and had some lovely descriptions about Lisbon. Very uplifting during this difficult time for our country.

A slow start but I loved it. The idea of art on dresses sounded fab. I loved how money does not buy you happiness. A good ending. Definetly well worth a read

Lucy Coleman is so good at whisking us away to an exciting destination, and The Villa of Dreams was no exception, spiriting me away to Lisbon in the blink of an eye. I’ve never been to Portugal but the descriptions of the delicious Portuguese delicacies and the warmth of the sunshine shone from every page, and made me want to hop on a plane and head there right away.

The vibrant descriptions of Lisbon had me googling photographs of the city, and as I expected, the photos completely matched the images that Lucy had created within this wonderful story.

The main characters of Seren and Reid were so flawed, but with both of them seeking to make changes to their lives for the better, and for their own self-improvement, there were a few ups and downs along the way. I loved the additional characters in the story, especially Carolina and Seren’s best friend from back home Judi.

This was the perfect armchair travel romance, and the perfect antidote to the dark, damp winter days at home.

I always enjoy reading about characters who have packed up and moved away to another country where both the language and culture are so very different to what they are used to. As an immigrant myself, I find myself smiling and nodding along as the character gets to grips with their new life. The author paints such a beautiful picture of Lisbon, invoking memories of visiting there as a child and being overwhelmed by the hugeness of the Cristo Rei.  Admittedly, while I appreciated the attention to detail, it did have the effect of slowing the story down at the beginning. That said, the scene where she has her first Pastéis de nata with her colleagues had me salivating! :) 

The core theme of the novel is the exhibition Seren has proposed to her new bosses; ambitious it may be, but she is convinced she can pull it off - in spite of Rafael, one of the big draws to the event, who isn't as involved or as enthusiastic as she is. Luckily, she has another one of the main artists, Reid, on her side. He has his own family issues to contend with - divorce, his daughter, and an ex-wife who is still involved in his business.  He and Seren have very different goals, and their slow-burn of a romance sometimes looks as though it might never get off the ground despite the very obvious spark between them. 

Seren's own artistic streak is enjoyably original, creating sculptures from metal. It's demonstrative of her need to break free from the family business back in the UK, where her father had been over-domineering. Both she and Reid have baggage to deal with, and hopes and dreams that don't align, but can they find a way through? 

This is such a lovely story, combining travel, art and new starts with a gentle, easy to read style - what's not to love about it? 
With thanks to Boldwood Books, NetGalley and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review

This is my first read from Coleman and I had high expectations. However, it wasn’t as absorbing as I had hoped. I have another book on my shelf by this author and would like it to be more of a successful read.

To start with, I found the plot a little slow to get started. Indeed, after a couple of chapters, I was worried whether this was a follow-on novel and that I had missed the start of the series. This is because it felt like I was thrown into the narrative and was expected to know more about the protagonist, Seren, than was revealed. I found this confusing and what lessened my enjoyment into the story from the beginning.

This feeling continued throughout the narrative. I never felt like I truly knew Seren and felt distanced and detached from her story. Similarly, I was never wholly convinced by her relationship with Reid. I found it wooden and lacking the romance and passion. I think this is because the writer progresses the narrative forwards in chunks, naturally leaving out intricate details. In this case, I wanted to see more of a light courtship between the two characters and, in Seren’s case, more of an established background to her character.

The central theme to this story is the exhibition that Seren is planning. It is a massive undertaking and I enjoyed watching Seren revel in the organising – it appealed to my OCD tendencies! This is the driving force behind the plot and I believe the story is more about this event than Seren as a character in a difficult relationship. Consequently, with parts absent from her relationship with Reid, I wanted there to be more of an intricate focus on the exhibition. In my opinion, the book does not sit quite perfectly between the two themes: romance and exhibition.

Undoubtedly, Coleman brings the setting of Lisbon alive with her vivid descriptions. This was definitely the most appealing part of the narrative. Coleman pays a lot of attention to the setting. It felt like I was looking at a photo album of Coleman’s research into the area because of the imagery and colours. This was a really enjoyable aspect of the story because I really did feel like I was walking the cobbled streets with Seren. After reading such delightful descriptions, Lisbon has certainly been added to my list of places to visit!

I was not too sure about this narrative in the end. I could not grow to care about the central characters and instead was more intrigued with Seren’s work, rather than Seren herself. This is not a story heavily dominated by romance, but I think a bit more magic would have made a difference.

With thanks to Boldwood Books, NetGalley and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

My first book by Lucy Coleman was warming, gratifying and highly entertaining, bringing absolutely no disappointments.

When Seren Maddison leaves drizzly Britain to move to sunny Lisbon in Portugal, she knows she has made the right decision and she has found her perfect place to settle. Following a work meeting with Reid Henderson, an artist, they click immediately but both are wary of becoming too involved because they have been hurt in previous relationships, and they have very different goals. Seren and Reid discover whether their time together is a happy summer holiday romance or some lessons in love.

With its realistic, brilliantly drawn characters this was such a lovely story and the perfect choice of novel as the weather has turned distinctly wintery already. Lucy Coleman's tremendous writing and descriptions of Lisbon made me think I was there myself, in the pockets of Seren as she explored the heart of Almada. This author really knew how to set the scene, from the views to delicious sounding foods, art, architecture, and traditions, making The Villa of Dreams so great. I was totally swept along with the well- paced, delightful storyline. Moving to a new country can be a daunting experience for many and this came across very well. With a dominant theme of self-development and a will-they/won't-they trope, The Villa of Dreams was a riveting, heartwarming read that really raised my spirits.

Romance readers who like to be transported to another country for some escapism will enjoy this one. Very highly recommended!

Thank you to Lucy Coleman, Boldwood Books, NetGalley and Rachel’s Random Resources for a complimentary copy of this novel at my request. This review is my own unbiased opinion.

Nothing brightens up my day like a new Lucy Coleman novel and she is back with an emotional, uplifting and wonderfully romantic page-turner perfect for chasing the winter blues away: The Villa of Dreams.

Seren Maddison had decided that the time had come for her to put herself first. Making her dreams a reality had become paramount for her, so she had left rainy England behind and left for Lisbon, where she hopes to take a leap of fate and take chances on making her heart’s desires a reality. Seren falls in love with the Portuguese capital from the very first moment she sets foot in Lisbon. The scenery, the people and the sunshine put a spring in her step and bring so much joy to her heart. Romance is not something Seren is actively looking for, but could handsome artist Reid manage to change her mind?

Sparks began to fly between the two of them from the moment they met, but any hope they might have of having a future together is immediately complicated by old scars and never forgotten insecurities. Reid is still reeling from his painful divorce and he has come to Lisbon to heal and to turn his luxurious home into an art school and gallery. Reid never imagined that he would find himself drawn to someone in the same way that he is drawn to Seren after the break-up of his marriage, but as his feelings for her intensify with each passing day, he wonders whether there might be a chance for the two of them – even if they both have different dreams and ambitions which might just put paid to any hope they might have of being together.

Although Seren and Reid know that they must be sensible and not get too involved with one another, that quickly proves easier said than done. As they spend a glorious summer together in one another’s company, will they be ready to say goodbye once autumn comes round? Or will they realise that true love is a gift that can triumph over every single adversity standing in its way – providing that they are ready to fight for it?

Lucy Coleman writes delicious and delightful reads that are simply sensational and she has penned another winner with The Villa of Dreams. As always with a Lucy Coleman novel, her settings come to life as vividly and as deftly as her characters. Lisbon is beautifully recreated between the pages of this moving, atmospheric, emotional and feel-good romantic read with Seren and Reid being two terrific characters readers cannot help but root for.

Sparkling with humour, emotion and warmth, Lucy Coleman has outdone herself once again with The Villa of Dreams.

This is an emotive story of following your dreams, daring to make a fresh start and trusting your heart.

Seren Maddison has worked for her bullying father for six years but has had enough. She resigns and follows her dreams working as an event manager for an Art Gallery in Lisbon, Portugal where her first major event is to be a real inspirational showstopper, presenting and linking the talents of three very different artists.

Reid Henderson is one of the three artists involved in the event but he's the only one who Seren is attracted to. Unfortunately, although he's divorced, his ex-wife is still very involved in both his life and his business. His dreams are totally different to those of Seren but he's also very attracted to her. Can they discover a way forward to mutual goals and develop some new dreams together?

Settling into a new job, in a new country where you don't speak the language, getting to know the different attitudes, foods and places are all brilliantly portrayed in this emotional rollercoaster read. The expectations, family dramas, power struggles and so much more kept me turning the pages. The evocative descriptions bring the whole story to life as if you're actually there - and I certainly would like to visit once this pandemic makes it safe to do so again! In the meanwhile, whilst my journeys are virtual ones from the comfort of my armchair, this is a delightful way to bring some sunshine back into your life and a lovely story to escape into.

Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.

If you don’t know me, let me tell you something first. I was born and raised in the central coast of Portugal, in the Leiria District. That been said, you may already understand why I would be excited for this book, if you read the synopsis.

It's always quite exciting when I read a book, one written in English, and I find Portuguese words in the mix. It's also quite funny to read "river Tagus" when it has always been "Tejo" for me. It all makes my polyglot brain excited and happy.

In the middle of all those words, we follow Seren Maddison and a group of artists - including Reid Henderson, the love interest in this romance. The artistic side of the story adds this interesting element to the plot. I loved that and I wished it was true and I could see all the artwork in real life.

Honestly the multicultural elements in the book was what truly got me. Portugal is a country of diversity, although people tend to forget about that. And nowadays with the globalization, the migration flow, the big cities, like Lisboa, tend to have more culture represented in the streets. It's in the art, architecture, in the voices, in the thoughts and tradition, and in the food and drinks.

The book made me have multiple feelings, sometimes at the same time, others it was as the story went. Usually, books that happened in other countries transport me to that place and it's like a trip without living my room. And I'm sure many people felt that while reading this story because it was quite beautifully done, that I'm sure some readers googled all of the places mentioned and all the Portuguese things talked about, like the wine and Pastéis de Belém.

Let's be honest, this is my country. Although I haven't visit all of it, I have been to Lisboa plenty of times. I was already at home, so it didn't transport me per say to Lisboa. BUT! It had another effect. It made me feeling as if I was on a trip to Lisboa with my French family or with friends that have never been there. It had that excitement because other were excited as well about the city, the people, the history and gastronomy.

Reading a book set in my country by a non-Portuguese author, makes me wonder about the research the write has done and why Portugal. Why Lucy Coleman picked my lovely, imperfect, sunny and rainy, country to set her story in. Maybe every aspect of the book related to Portugal is the reason. Why I think that? Because the book had this hospitality quality to it. Something I quite loved. Something I hope any tourist experiences while visiting Portugal.

Overall, It was a beautiful book. We don't just fall in love with the characters, we fall in love with the entirety of the book. From the art to the people behind it. From the streets of busy Lisboa area to the interactions between the characters. From the love, to family, to friends and to new adventures in a different country.

The Villa of Dreams. A Vila dos Sonhos. And that truly was the perfect title for this book. For me, sonhos is just the start. "E agora eu finalmente sei o que significa felicidade... para sempre." To my English speaker friends, that have read the book, you may know what that sentence means, to those that haven't, it's a good opportunity to read it.

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.

Seren feels that it is the time in her life to take a chance and so she moves to Portugal leaving behind her family and friends. Running an art gallery she meets artist, Reid, and the sparks fly but they have both been badly burnt before and are not looking for love,.... but does it find you when you least expect it or want it!

Another lovely story by this author which draws you in from the start. I loved the descriptions of Portugal, especially in the dismal time at home, and would have loved to be transported there! Also good characters and storyline.

I have read, loved and reviewed everything that Lucy has published to date. Each time I finish her new book, the wait for her next book begins. Well ladies and gents the wait is temporarily over because her new book called ‘The Villa Of Dreams’ has just been released and it is another stonker of a read from Lucy Coleman. I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Villa Of Dreams’ but more about that in a bit.
As with all of Lucy’s book, I was drawn into the story from the very first word on the very first page. ‘The Villa Of Dreams’ seemed to develop a hold over me and it was a hold that I wasn’t going to break. I picked the book up on a cold and grey day in the North East and I soon forgot about the naff weather outside as I was taken away to sunnier climes. I was swept along by the story and I couldn’t turn the pages quickly enough. It was as if I was an addict in frequent need of her next fix. I would pick the book up only intending to read a couple of chapters but I became that wrapped up in the story that I would read more like half a dozen chapters and I lost track of time.
‘The Villa Of Dreams’ is superbly written but then I think that to be true of all of Lucy’s books in general. She grabs your attention and draws you into the story from the very start. Lucy brings Portugal alive as she uses such vivid and realistic descriptions that if I closed my eyes, it would be easy for me to imagine that I was in Portugal with the sun beating down on my face. I felt as though I was part of the story and that’s all thanks to Lucy’s very vivid and realistic storytelling. For me, ‘The Villa Of Dreams’ was a delight to read and it kept my attention from start to finish.
In short, I thoroughly enjoyed reading ‘The Villa Of Dreams’ and I would definitely recommend the book to other readers. I can’t wait to read 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*.

I love it when a book pops up on my kindle from a favourite author as I know I'm in for a great read and Lucy Coleman never disappoints.

Seren Maddison has taken the leap to leave her job - and her life - in Britain to take up a new position in sunny Lisbon. Settling into the vibrant community and taking up the challenges of work and enjoying everything about the city soon makes Seren realise that she has found her forever home. When she meets Reid Henderson, international artist, through her latest - and ambitious - work project, there is definitely a spark there but neither of them wants to leap into a relationship as they've both been hurt in the past. Can they enjoy a summer romance or does life have different plans?

What a perfect book to read as the weather here turns bitterly cold and distinctly wintery. I feel as if I've had a welcome break in the sunshine. This author always writes beautifully about overseas destinations and yet again has made me wish I was there myself. With rounded characters who are fully developed and entirely realistic, this is such a lovely story and I imagine that, in these times of travel restrictions, many readers will be planning a future trip to Portugal once we're out of lockdown. A well-paced, quite delightful novel and one which raised my spirits considerably and easily earns all five shining stars!

My thanks to the publisher for my copy of this novel and to Rachel's Random Resources for my spot on this tour; this is - as always - my honest, original and unbiased review.

The villa of dreams by Lucy Coleman.
I did enjoy this book. I do like this author. I loved the cover. Very Christmasy. I liked Seren. I liked Reid too. I liked the ending. 5*.

The perfect escape to sunnier climes. Lucy Coleman takes us on a wonderful journey to Lisbon, Portugal with Seren as she starts over away from her family and friends.
Portugal and the characters are richly described and it’s easy to see how Seren fell in love with the country and the people. Her journey of self discovery is emotional and realistic as her relationship with Reid builds. A heartwarming read to enjoy.

Yet another wonderful book from Lucy Coleman. Seren has the challenge of a new job in a new country with so many cultural differences. A new man as well? But even this isn't straight forward. A beautifully written book that keeps you enthralled, feeling all of Seren's emotions as she feels her way through the minefield of a relationship with an older man in a strange country. Don't miss it!

Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for an early review copy.

As we can’t travel, for our holidays,I feel books like these are a perfect escape to countries we want to go and see.

I so much loved travelling to Lisbon with Seren, as she leaves the UK forher new life at the gallery. There, she not only falls in love with the place, but also, Reid enters her life.

Another fabulous book by Lucy, again set in beautiful locations.

The story was flowing throughout and I never wanted it to end. It was so well written.

Recommend it.

Lucy Coleman has once again done a fabulous job as she transported me to Portugal. Seren decides that working for her father is, well, not working. She has only wanted his approval but when she realises that will never happen she decides that she must do what is right for her.

Seren and her friend Judi made a pact and it is now the right time for Seren to embark on her own plan. To save enough to buy a small place where she can earn enough to get by and still have the time for her art. The Almada area Portugal and the view from her little flat of the Christo Rei monument are exactly where she feels she needs to be.

Her job is hectic as she sets about organising a fashion show that incorporates art, fabric, music and photographs doesn't give her much social time. She focuses on her job, getting to know some of the area and working towards her dream. A dream that didn't take into account meeting, Reid.

This is a wonderful book that took me into the heart of Almada. This author really does know how to set the scene, from views to food, art, architecture, tradition and social views and opinions and for me this is what makes her books so good. The details to surrounding helped to sweep this reader up completely.

The plot for the story is one that gradually emerged. I learnt more about Seren, her home life and why her decision to move was the best thing. Starting afresh and in a new country is daunting and this did come across well as did the cultural differences.

The author provided a plot that wasn't straight forward. Not wanting any romantic attachments is one thing but when the spark is there can you really do anything to stop it. More importantly, is how do you prove that your past has been dealt with?

A wonderful read and one for contemporary fiction and romance readers who like to be taken to a different country. Gorgeous and heartwarming but with an ominous will they / won't they vibe. It is one I would definitely recommend.