Beneath the Lemon Trees by Emma Burstall
Genres: Contemporary Romance, Womens Fiction
Heartbroken after the loss of a friend and the collapse of her marriage, Stella hopes that this trip to the idyllic Greek island of Crete will give her and her family a chance to heal. And when she first steps into the breath-taking Villa Ariadne, with its views over the azure waters and intoxicating scent of lemons, Stella’s troubles seem to melt away.
Until the arrival of an old acquaintance, and an unwelcome revelation, threaten to undermine the peace at the villa, and Stella is forced to make a difficult decision.
But with the help of Crete’s beautiful scenery and the kindness of its locals, Stella is about to discover that Villa Ariadne can still offer an escape… and so much more. Can she open herself up to the possibility of love and find the strength to start again?
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I received this book for free from in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
The premise is undeniably promising, and it kicks off with a strong start. The vivid descriptions of Greece—its people, food, and stunning sights—were exceptional. I felt as though I could pack my bags and book a flight right to the villa! I still might… as long as the characters from this story aren’t around.
The main character, Stella, is recently separated from her husband and grieving the loss of her best friend to cancer. She decides to take her children, along with her second-best friend and her children, on a two-week vacation that could have been paradise. Unfortunately, Stella’s indecisiveness and tendency to whine make it impossible for anyone to relax. Her inability to say no even results in an unwelcome houseguest, who really should’ve been left behind for everyone’s sake.
While I absolutely adored the vibrant villagers, the vacationers—Stella included—really dragged the story down. Their misery was a bit over-the-top, especially in contrast to the beautifully written village setting and its enchanting locals. In fact, I found myself far more invested in the villa’s backstory and its charming proprietor than in the main plot.
Also, a heads-up for fans of spicy content: The unexpected steamy scene near the end felt very out of place, especially after a lengthy and odd conversation about scabs and bruises. Not sure why that detail was necessary—it left me more puzzled than anything.
Meet the Author
About Emma Burstall
Emma Burstall is the bestselling author of women’s fiction, including the Tremarnock series. Emma studied English at Cambridge University before becoming a journalist for local and national newspapers and women’s magazines. She lives in London and has three children.
I completely agree with this review. Why do some female authors use their books to denigrate the ‘heroine’? The main character is such an unremitting whiner leaving me frustrated and annoyed that its only pure stubborness and the fact I paid full price for the book that’s urging me to pick it up again if only to find some worth.
I don’t know but it drives me up a wall. I don’t need a super strong heroine every single time. Whine sometimes but not as much as she did. Women aren’t that weak all the time.