Four strangers meet in a Greek taverna, each there to escape the problems of their lives back home. Suddenly, tragic events unfold in the harbour below, throwing the four together in adversity.

Nave young nurse Fiona, lonely dad Thomas, glamorous TV presenter Elsa and shy David who needs to stand up to his domineering father strike up a friendship as they each search for a way forward in their lives.

They are helped along the way by the wise but mysterious Vonnie, who herself escaped from Ireland to the Greek village many years ago.

This novel is Maeve Binchy at her best - a cast of characters whose lives intertwine but who each have their own stories to tell. Instead of the usual Irish setting for her stories, the fictional Greek village of Aghia Anna forms a perfect summer backdrop for a heartwarming holiday read.

Updated: 08:50 Saturday, July 09, 2005