Thanks to NetGalley and Grand Central for the opportunity to read this title.

Marjory St. James never stays in one place for very long. Her newest adventure takes her to the idyllic Greek island of Naxos. While there, she forms friendships with women who've been touched by magic and might even find some of her own.

The book had all the ingredients for a fantastic story, but it fell flat for me. I didn't feel a strong connection with any of the characters. There were many characters involved in the story and I think they all could have used more background and development. I wish more time was given to their magic. Their gifts are discussed but we never learn why they have them or see them put to use in a way that felt plot altering. The love story within the novel also didn't work for me. Their days on the boat weren't given book time and neither were their email exchanges. If that is where their love grew, the readers couldn't witness it. What we did read didn't give deep feelings.

I loved the discussion of Greek dishes and and many quirky aspects of Greek culture. This would make a nice beach read for those looking to escape to the Greek Isles.

There is something very special about the women of Naxos, a small village in the Greek Isles; they all have very unique gifts.

Jory, raised by her mother and eschewing her father’s wealth, loves to travel and has always found home wherever she goes. Cressida’s plans to open a guest house and taverna on Naxos with her beloved husband are crushed when he dies unexpectedly. She has done nothing to make the dream go forward and now faces financial ruin. When Jory travels to Naxos, her developing friendship with Cress and the other villagers is the catalyst to revive that dream.

What a pleasant surprise reading this book. I chose it solely on the basis of its title; I loved all the alluring little Greek tavernas we ate at when we visited there for a month. Part travelogue, food journey, magic, female bonding, and romance, this story totally charmed me. I am not typically a fan of magical realism, but this tale won me over. All the pleasures of a visit to a Greek Isle are here….the landscape, the history, the wine, the culinary delights, the climate, the beaches. I was enchanted with this very fast read. Foodies and romantics will love it. It is a perfect vacation escape read.

Magical realism is one of my favorite genres. The women featured in this novel all have gifts – ones that touch on magic but could easily be demonstrated in so-called “real life.” The gifts add dimension to their characters and to the storyline itself. Overall, this charming novel is entertaining and kept me engaged throughout.

Cressida and Leo had a dream – to create the best guest house (boutique hotel) and taverna on the Greek island of Naxos. Tragically, Leo died and three years later his widow is still struggling with her grief and is about to lose the property and their dream. Until…Marjory, aka Jory, St James arrives on the island and serendipitously is guided to the guest house. After a bit of a rocky start, the two women begin to forge a friendship that leads to new possibilities for each of them. Rounding out the cast of characters are several interesting villagers that enhance the appeal of the novel.

This is a refreshing read that blends a bit of romance with the dominant theme of strength fostered by the bonds of female relationships. The descriptions of the food and wine enhance the story and are sure to please “foodie” readers. It is a satisfying read, a great escape to a beautiful island with a feel-good ending.

My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This review is being posted immediately to my GoodReads account and will be posted on Amazon upon publication.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Grand Central for the opportunity to read The Secrets of the Little Greek Taverna by Erin Palmisano, a delight ful debut novel. I loved this book so much,the characters are people I would love to know, the camaraderie enviable, and the food divine. I hope from more work from the author soon.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC!

Lovely read. I studied abroad in Greece and this novel made me miss that experience and long to go back and experience the food and culture. The writing was very evocative. Great storytelling.

Secrets of the Little Greek Taverna is a beautiful story about friendship, healing, and how food made with love can change your life. From the very first moment her main character, Jory stepped off the ferry, Erin Palmisano had me immersed in a little village in the Greek Islands full of stunning scenery and a charming cast of women with extraordinary gifts. By the end of this novel, I couldn’t help but believe in magic.