Beneath the Orange Blossom

A lost love. A devastating secret. And a summer that could change everything…

Two years on from her husband’s death, dressmaker Ellen is learning how to live again and put memories of a difficult marriage behind her.

However, never far from her mind is another memory: Alexandros, her first love from the summer she turned eighteen.

The moment she'd arrived in his hometown of Kardamyli in Greece, Ellen had been intoxicated by the scent of orange blossom in the air, the days of endless sunshine and sparkling azure waters – but most of all by Alexandros himself. They were meant to be, until a devastating secret forced Ellen to leave and never look back…

But now, when her best friend suggests they recreate their teenage summer in Greece, Ellen knows it’s time to confront her past. Will Greece give her the freedom – and happiness – she desperately craves? And there, amidst the lush olive groves, could she rediscover the love she thought she’d lost forever?

A gloriously escapist and emotional read set under the Grecian sun. Fans of Karen Swan, Victoria Hislop and Carol Kirkwood will love this unforgettable tale of sisterhood, hope and second chances.

Emma is based in Greece with her husband, Tony, who is also a writer. A former actress and BBC presenter, segueing from being paid to talk for a living into writing was a natural progression, since storytelling has been at the heart of her career to date. Outside work, Emma is a keen angler and is attempting to improve her Greek language skills…she is yet to achieve a level of proficiency outside of tavernas and bakeries.

PRAISE FOR BENEATH THE ORANGE BLOSSOM

‘An evocative, romantic and deeply sensuous read. Wonderful escapism' Santa Montefiore

‘Fragrant and fabulous, brimming with tender romance and hope. The perfect book for summer’ Milly Johnson

'A sun-drenched romance that lifts the spirits. I loved every moment of this story of lost love, friendship, and second chances!' Kate Glanville

‘A sublime summer read filled with romance, emotion and hope – it will fill your heart to the brim with every turn of the page.’ Holly Martin

PRAISE FOR EMMA COWELL

‘A heartfelt story of second chances.’ Woman & Home

‘A brilliant book, pure escapism’ The Sun

‘The glorious setting will instantly transport you to sunnier climes!’ – My Weekly

‘Emma Cowell creates worlds of warmth, laughter, healing and hope in her delicious novels… a glorious story that celebrates the power of love’ – Adriana Trigiani

‘A hymn to friendship and love… utterly perfect’ – Liz Fenwick

'Under the Lemon Tree seals Emma Cowell’s place as mistress of the Greek romantic novel.' – Eva Glyn

'Beautiful, emotional and uplifting escapism with an exquisitely vivid Greek island setting. Utter bliss.' – Alex Brown

'I was engrossed, hanging on to every word, and so impressed by Under the Lemon Tree that I will be recommending it to all my friends.’ – Patricia Wilson

'A life-affirming and captivating story. A delightful read.’ – Kate Frost

'A compelling journey of healing and family secrets. It evokes Greece through Cowell’s beautiful descriptions of food and family life.’ – Francesca Catlow

‘A culinary twist, female solidarity, friendship and romance, what more does one need for a perfect summer read?’ – Nadia Marks

‘An enchanting treat of a book… Cowell’s exquisite writing is as delicious as the food she describes. Five honey-smothered stars from me.’ – Jennie Keer

‘A sweeping novel about sisterhood, courage and new beginnings that will inspire and delight.’ – Tessa Harris