Several of Ann Nichol's books play homage to the theme of "Love at First Sight" which seems to be a family tradition. Her Grandparents experienced "Love at First Sight", her parents, herself, and even her son. So it really does happen in real life and with marriages that last lifetimes. Ann lived in Greece for a couple of decades (her husband is Greek) and has grown to know and respect the land and all it has to offer.