Having read the first two books in the Julie & Friends Series, ‘Eventually Julie‘ and ‘The Greek Tapestry‘ by author Anthea Syrokou, I was thrilled to be able to read the third and final book, ‘Under The Frangipani Tree’.

In this last book, we focus on Cassandra, who is a Counsellor and engaged to Connor, who is also a Counsellor. To enable herself to be happy and finally happily settle down Cassandra must first put some ghosts to rest from her past by going back to the town she grew up in after being invited to her friend Cynthia’s wedding.

Knowing she has to sort out some problems with her dad she goes on early ahead of Connor with the hope of also avoiding her ex-boyfriend Josh, who happens to be Cynthia’s fiance’s best friend. But can she avoid him?

It was nice to step foot back into this series and see regulars Maria and Antonio, as well as Julie and George who have been with us throughout.

I thoroughly enjoy the writing style of Anthea Syrokou as she brings the focus of the relationships together well and adds such vivid descriptions of Australia, especially the Vineyards in Barossa Valley. You can get completely lost in the story and have it leaving you wanting more.

I am sad to see the end of the Julie and Friends Series as I have enjoyed every minute of it. I do hope to see more from Anthea in the future in whatever writing ventures she may make.

Anthea Syrokou is an author who grew up and resides in Sydney, Australia. Her love for writing was planted at a young age when she studied Greek mythology. Anthea’s love for literature continued well into her teenage years when she enjoyed reading novels by many of the great English writers.

As a young adult, she immersed herself in reading women’s contemporary fiction and writing about topics, that many could relate to, in a witty, light-hearted way, which became a passion — one that she takes very seriously.

Anthea has a BA degree, majoring in psychology and industrial relations, and a diploma in counselling. She also studied Greek literature at university and has worked in direct marketing, and insurance and investments.

When she isn’t writing or reading, Anthea enjoys travelling, yoga, spending time with her family, and escaping to the vineyards. A quiet house with some jazz playing in the background, surrounded by a few lit scented candles is her idea of relaxation. Even though Anthea dreams about hosting the “perfect” dinner party, she is more likely to be found at a cosy, candlelit restaurant. She lives with her husband and their two sons, and often jokes that she may be the only writer who doesn’t own a cat.

Anthea is also a member of the Australian Society of Authors.