I enjoyed this light, Christmas-themed romance set in Greece. I felt like I learned a little about Greece along the way and it felt like the author must have a love for the country as well.

The two main characters Jen and Astro both have so much in their past to deal with. There was depth in their characters in that there was a history there that made you understand their motives a little better but sometimes it felt like it was out there just to keep them apart. I almost wish there was more time spent on them enjoying time together and less of the time spent making up reasons they could never be.

I enjoyed the other characters in the book as well especially Jen’s BF, Bonnie, who was always there to support her friend and I just hope that maybe someday Bonnie will get her own stand-alone book where she can find her own special person. I also loved Achilles with all his energy and joy for the season that was contagious even to Astro who (understandably) struggled with the season. Also, big hearts for Peri the pigeon who was the most adorable sidekick/pet!

I will say there are times where the author strayed into stereotypes that made me uncomfortable. I guess everyone has their own line but with Natalia it seemed overdone and heavy handed with the stereotypes that I think were intended to bring humour but fell flat for me.

Overall, it was a fun read that deals with some toughs injects like grief and growing up in the foster care system and trying to find your place in the world while also telling a sweet romantic story about two people finding love.

I received an early reader digital copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

I had a difficult time getting into this story because I found Jen to be difficult to like. I understand why she is the way she is, but it's so hard getting invested in someone when they are so negative all the time. I give Bonnie so much credit for staying by her side for so long. Especially after the whole debacle with David because Jen didn't quite blame Bonnie, but let her feel terrible for having encouraged Jen to try online dating in the first place. She is also the classic "I'll help everyone but no one can help me" kind of personality. I am glad that I stuck with the book though because I did enjoy watching Jen learn to open up a little to others (mostly Astro) and to be open to being helped when she needed it. I also really liked watching Astro start to process his grief after so many years. I loved the little moments of levity with Natalia - I think we all wish we could have someone with her connections on our side. There were a few times when I thought the story was getting ready to wind-down only for some new obstacle be thrown in Jen's way - she's very lucky for the snowstorm, it most likely prevented her from making a terrible decision and losing what she was starting to develop with Astro. For a follow up to this story I would love to know what happens with Bonnie in the future - does she reconcile with her sister? does she open up to her parents about how their actions regarding her sister make her feel? does she get her own romance? I need answers!

I received an ARc from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

I really liked this story. The author always creates wonderful characters who engage one’s interest and whom you really want to have a lovely journey to a happy ending. This doesn’t just mean finding love but sorting out the problems which have prevented you being the person you ought to be. So self discovery along with discovering the right love.

Mandy Baggot never misses the mark. I could read her Greek romances on repeat! She has the perfect combination of romance, plot and character development that really make her books sing. This book has all the feeling of a slow burn romance but only over a short space of time. We get completely absorbed into Jen and Astro’s world, following them throughout each day of Jen’s trip and watching them dance around each other, what they want and what they need, and it’s absolutely delicious. I love how real all of the characters are, those in England and in Greece, and how the relationships between them all are developed and portrayed. It’s impossible not to be drawn into Athens and to feel as though you’re surrounded by real people. This book is chock full of emotion, self-discovery and character and you won’t want to miss it.

I received a free copy of this book. All views are my own.

I really enjoyed the start of this novel and the idea of a romantic Christmas getaway, which would inevitably go awry. However once the trip to Paris was cancelled and one to Greece replaced it the story became a little disjointed and I became unenthusiastic about the characters.

The Christmas element of the book was nice and I liked the concept of 2 people from different countries coming together is usually something I enjoy. However I struggled to like the main characters and found that my favourite was that of the pigeon that features on and off in the story.

Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

This book is a cozy read if you like travel and Christmas-y vibes. Jen goes to Athens to surprise her boyfriend… only to realize that all isn’t what it seems. She then goes on a journey of self discovery - and a bit of romance. This is the first book I’ve read by this author and I’d definitely give more of her books a read.

A gorgeous festive feast of Christmas vibes in downtown Athens, in total Greek style from the lovely Corfu and all things Greek loving Mandy Baggott!!
Jen is a Christmas lover whose business in Wiltshire is all thing’s festive all year round. When her boyfriend David persuades her to have a few days off for a romantic trip to Paris and then has an emergency work trip to Athens, Jen and best friend Bonnie decide to surprise him in Athens. Lots of surprises follow………
There is so much in this book, creativity, family, friendships, overcoming what life throws your way and of course love!! This book has all the love feels!! Zing attraction and a pigeon!!!
Absolutely ate up this book of delicious Greek food and historical areas of the city, had to keep consulting information about Athens!! Just brilliant, the perfect heartwarming read this winter!!!
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the early read!! Loved it!!

Absolutely love this book! Had me wanting to book a flight to Greece! First time reading a book by this author and will definitely read more!

If this doesn’t speak romcom perfection I don’t know what does!… I was so delighted with the warm fuzzy feeling this book left me with….definitely five stars

This is an enjoyable romantic novel to chase away those winter blues, Mandy Baggot is definitely one of the more reliable writers of this genre

"In the Greek Midwinter" by Mandy Baggot is a delightful and heartwarming contemporary romance novel that whisks readers away to the picturesque setting of Athens during the holiday season. This story is a perfect blend of romance, adventure, and self-discovery, making it a joyous and engaging read.

The narrative begins with a twist when Jen's romantic Paris trip with her boyfriend David is unexpectedly canceled due to his work commitments in Athens. Jen's best friend, Bonnie, suggests that they surprise David by joining him in Greece. What follows is a journey filled with spontaneity, love, and self-reflection.

One of the novel's strengths lies in its vivid and evocative descriptions of Athens during the holiday season. Baggot paints a beautiful picture of the city, immersing readers in its sights, sounds, and traditions. The setting becomes a character in itself, adding depth and charm to the story.

The characters, particularly Jen and Astro, the Christmas-hating waiter, are well-developed and endearing. Jen's journey of self-discovery and her willingness to embrace the unexpected twists in her life make her a relatable and likable protagonist. Astro's complex personality and his interactions with Jen add layers of depth to the romantic subplot.

The theme of Christmas, with its traditions and customs, is woven throughout the narrative, adding a festive and heartwarming touch. Jen's research on Greek Christmas customs provides a unique and engaging element to the story, making it more than just a typical romance.

As the plot unfolds, readers are taken on a journey of self-discovery, love, and personal growth. The story explores the idea that sometimes life's detours can lead to unexpected and beautiful destinations. Jen's choices and the relationships she forms in Athens add depth to the narrative, making it more than just a romance but also a story about finding oneself.

"In the Greek Midwinter" is a charming and uplifting novel that captures the spirit of the holiday season and the magic of unexpected adventures. Mandy Baggot's writing is engaging, and her storytelling keeps readers hooked from start to finish. If you're looking for a heart-warming romance with a touch of holiday magic, this book is the perfect choice. It will leave you with a warm and festive feeling, reminding you that love and joy can be found in the most unexpected places.

Love Mandy Baggot books. Jen's supposed to be going to Paris with her boyfriend when he tells her he's had to go to Athens for work. Her friend Bonnie persuades her to go there only to find David's been living a lie but they decide to make the most of their time there. Lovely descriptions of everything in Athens

The beginning of the book really intrigued me — Jen is jilted by her boyfriend David and she finds herself in Greece with her friend Bonnie — feeling disappointed and angry at the situation— Jen`s trip becomes a quest for self-discovery and adventure. — I think I would`ve maintained interest — if self discovery was more about self discovery without a romance —Romantic lead Astro — I love the name — but I started to lose interest in both Jen and Astro — the more they got involved with each other —I couldn`t maintain investment in their outcome — I guess this book ended up not being my cup of tea — though I really think it has potential and others will enjoy the book —If you`re looking for a Greek Romance -light read— with a flavour of Christmas.

I really wanted to like this one. I struggled with following the story and I was not invested in the characters. I absolutely loved. WISHING ON A star and enjoyed Those Summer Nights but this one was not my favorite.