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Summer on the Italian Lakes
Could one summer on the Italian coast change Brie's life forever?
Brianna Middleton has won the hearts of millions of readers with her sweeping love stories. But the girl behind the typewriter is struggling... Not only does she have writer's block, but she's a world-famous romance author with zero romance in her own life.
So the opportunity to spend the summer teaching at a writer's retreat in an idyllic villa on the shores of Lake Garda – owned by the enigmatic bachelor Arran Jamieson – could just be the thing to fire up Brie's writing, and maybe even her romantic life.
Brie's sun-drenched Italian summer could be the beginning of this writer's very own happy-ever-after...
Escape to the Italian coast in this sun-drenched, heart-warming story from the bestselling author of A Springtime to Remember.
Lucy lives in the Forest of Dean in the UK with her lovely husband and Bengal cat, Ziggy. Her novels have been short-listed in the UK's Festival of Romance and the eFestival of Words Book Awards. Lucy won the 2013 UK Festival of Innovation in Romantic Fiction award.
Brianna Middleton has won the hearts of millions of readers with her sweeping love stories. But the girl behind the typewriter is struggling... Not only does she have writer's block, but she's a world-famous romance author with zero romance in her own life.
So the opportunity to spend the summer teaching at a writer's retreat in an idyllic villa on the shores of Lake Garda – owned by the enigmatic bachelor Arran Jamieson – could just be the thing to fire up Brie's writing, and maybe even her romantic life.
Brie's sun-drenched Italian summer could be the beginning of this writer's very own happy-ever-after...
Escape to the Italian coast in this sun-drenched, heart-warming story from the bestselling author of A Springtime to Remember.
Lucy lives in the Forest of Dean in the UK with her lovely husband and Bengal cat, Ziggy. Her novels have been short-listed in the UK's Festival of Romance and the eFestival of Words Book Awards. Lucy won the 2013 UK Festival of Innovation in Romantic Fiction award.
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Published September 1, 2022
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About the author
Lucy Coleman
16 books273 followersLucy Coleman always knew that one day she would write, but first life took her on a wonderful journey of self-discovery for which she is very grateful.
Family life and two very diverse careers later she now spends most days glued to a keyboard, which she refers to as her personal quality time.
'It's only when you know who you are that you truly understand what makes you happy - and writing about love, life and relationships makes me leap out of bed every morning!'
If she isn't online she's either playing with the kids, whose imaginations seem to know no bounds, or painting something. As a serial house mover together with her lovely husband, there is always a new challenge to keep her occupied!
Family life and two very diverse careers later she now spends most days glued to a keyboard, which she refers to as her personal quality time.
'It's only when you know who you are that you truly understand what makes you happy - and writing about love, life and relationships makes me leap out of bed every morning!'
If she isn't online she's either playing with the kids, whose imaginations seem to know no bounds, or painting something. As a serial house mover together with her lovely husband, there is always a new challenge to keep her occupied!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 152 reviews
February 17, 2019
Now that’s AMORE!
A sweet love story that will make you want to visit Italy, write a book, and fall in love! This really is the perfect romance for any book lover... A delightful romantic story peppered with inside information on publishing and writing... I have no aspirations of being an author, but there were times during this book I thought I should give it a go, but no worries I change my mind! I strategically avoided all papers or as many as possible while I was in college, an English major I am not!
Brie is a romance writer who leans more towards the steamier side of things... unfortunately her own life isn’t quite as romantic or steamy as those in her books... after a bad and fairly public break up Brie hits rock-bottom, her friends and family are so concerned if they stage an intervention... soon after Brie finds herself heading to Italy to teach at a writers retreat... there she meets academic writer and host Arran, a man who Brie believes does not have a romantic bone in his body..... but with time and as these two get to know each other better, she finds out that romance comes in all shapes and forms... she also finds out that love is never simple... so will these to be able to overcome love’s messiness? You’ll need to read this book to find out!
Brie was such a fun real and relatable character! I thinkt her insecurities and doubts will resonate with many readers as well as her dreams and romantic hopes... likewise Arran was a relatable character he was loving but not necessarily “romantic“.... their Romance was so sweet although a bit speedy... something else I really found fascinating about this book was all the writing and publishing tidbits, I admire author so much and it was interesting to see how their minds work....
A lovely story full of wonderful characters, a Beautiful setting, and Un sacco di amore! Recommend!
🎵🎵🎵 song running through my head!
(In Napoli where love is king
When boy meets girl here's what they say)
When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie
That's amore
When the world seems to shine like you've had too much wine
That's amore
Bells will ring ting-a-ling-a-ling, ting-a-ling-a-ling
And you'll sing "Vita bella"
Hearts will play tippy-tippy-tay, tippy-tippy-tay
Like a gay tarantella
When the stars make you drool just like a pasta e fasul
That's amore
When you dance down the street with a cloud at your feet
You're in love
When you walk in a dream but you know you're not
Dreaming signore
Scuzzi me, but you see, back in old Napoli
That's amore
When the moon hits you eye like a big pizza pie
That's amore
When the world seems to shine like you've had too much wine
That's amore
Bells will…
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=OnFlx2L...
*** A huge thank you to Aria for my copy of this book ***
A sweet love story that will make you want to visit Italy, write a book, and fall in love! This really is the perfect romance for any book lover... A delightful romantic story peppered with inside information on publishing and writing... I have no aspirations of being an author, but there were times during this book I thought I should give it a go, but no worries I change my mind! I strategically avoided all papers or as many as possible while I was in college, an English major I am not!
Brie is a romance writer who leans more towards the steamier side of things... unfortunately her own life isn’t quite as romantic or steamy as those in her books... after a bad and fairly public break up Brie hits rock-bottom, her friends and family are so concerned if they stage an intervention... soon after Brie finds herself heading to Italy to teach at a writers retreat... there she meets academic writer and host Arran, a man who Brie believes does not have a romantic bone in his body..... but with time and as these two get to know each other better, she finds out that romance comes in all shapes and forms... she also finds out that love is never simple... so will these to be able to overcome love’s messiness? You’ll need to read this book to find out!
Brie was such a fun real and relatable character! I thinkt her insecurities and doubts will resonate with many readers as well as her dreams and romantic hopes... likewise Arran was a relatable character he was loving but not necessarily “romantic“.... their Romance was so sweet although a bit speedy... something else I really found fascinating about this book was all the writing and publishing tidbits, I admire author so much and it was interesting to see how their minds work....
A lovely story full of wonderful characters, a Beautiful setting, and Un sacco di amore! Recommend!
🎵🎵🎵 song running through my head!
(In Napoli where love is king
When boy meets girl here's what they say)
When the moon hits your eye like a big pizza pie
That's amore
When the world seems to shine like you've had too much wine
That's amore
Bells will ring ting-a-ling-a-ling, ting-a-ling-a-ling
And you'll sing "Vita bella"
Hearts will play tippy-tippy-tay, tippy-tippy-tay
Like a gay tarantella
When the stars make you drool just like a pasta e fasul
That's amore
When you dance down the street with a cloud at your feet
You're in love
When you walk in a dream but you know you're not
Dreaming signore
Scuzzi me, but you see, back in old Napoli
That's amore
When the moon hits you eye like a big pizza pie
That's amore
When the world seems to shine like you've had too much wine
That's amore
Bells will…
https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=OnFlx2L...
*** A huge thank you to Aria for my copy of this book ***
February 14, 2019
Favorite Quotes:
I hang my head, bringing up the rear like some wayward child as everyone files into the sitting room. It looks like there has been an explosion and most of it is snack related.
Where were you when he proposed?
Oh, sitting opposite him in the kitchen watching him chopping garlic.
Did he get down on one knee?
No, but he did stop chopping for a moment.
Sometimes a hero doesn’t arrive on a white charger or knock on your door with his arms full of flowers. Often, he makes you laugh when you least expect to – like when you are staring at a photo of you both naked on the internet and your mother comes up behind you.
‘That’s easy for you to say as it isn’t your naked rear that keeps popping up on the internet.’ The smile he’d given me was wicked. ‘Yes, but you look good, so don’t knock it… and when you’re eighty years old I bet you’ll get a little thrill when you remember that moment. I know I always will.’
It’s officially wine o’clock, and this glass has your name on it.
My Review:
This was a slowly developing story written in the first person POV of Brie, a best-selling romance writer who was initially suffering from writer's block. The vast majority of the narrative consisted of Brie’s inner musings and observations, which were often lushly detailed from floor to ceiling. Each vista, meal, person, and room was lavishly and colorfully described while bringing each character to life fully formed in my mind’s eye. Brie was a hopeless romantic who was still waiting for “The One” to make his appearance in her life but by age thirty, he continued to remain elusive. She was sent as a last minute replacement to assist with a writers’ retreat to a lovely Italian villa, hosted by Arran, a handsome yet complicated man who primarily did not appear impressed with her romantic ideals and successful backlist, but of course that quickly changed and the sheets were scorched. The storylines were pleasantly engaging although the writing style was quite verbose and took a slow and somewhat complicated route to arrive at that oh-so-satisfying HEA. And bonus - in addition to amusing entertainment, I actually learned a lot about the process of writing fiction during their interesting and thoughtful lessons and workshop discussions.
I hang my head, bringing up the rear like some wayward child as everyone files into the sitting room. It looks like there has been an explosion and most of it is snack related.
Where were you when he proposed?
Oh, sitting opposite him in the kitchen watching him chopping garlic.
Did he get down on one knee?
No, but he did stop chopping for a moment.
Sometimes a hero doesn’t arrive on a white charger or knock on your door with his arms full of flowers. Often, he makes you laugh when you least expect to – like when you are staring at a photo of you both naked on the internet and your mother comes up behind you.
‘That’s easy for you to say as it isn’t your naked rear that keeps popping up on the internet.’ The smile he’d given me was wicked. ‘Yes, but you look good, so don’t knock it… and when you’re eighty years old I bet you’ll get a little thrill when you remember that moment. I know I always will.’
It’s officially wine o’clock, and this glass has your name on it.
My Review:
This was a slowly developing story written in the first person POV of Brie, a best-selling romance writer who was initially suffering from writer's block. The vast majority of the narrative consisted of Brie’s inner musings and observations, which were often lushly detailed from floor to ceiling. Each vista, meal, person, and room was lavishly and colorfully described while bringing each character to life fully formed in my mind’s eye. Brie was a hopeless romantic who was still waiting for “The One” to make his appearance in her life but by age thirty, he continued to remain elusive. She was sent as a last minute replacement to assist with a writers’ retreat to a lovely Italian villa, hosted by Arran, a handsome yet complicated man who primarily did not appear impressed with her romantic ideals and successful backlist, but of course that quickly changed and the sheets were scorched. The storylines were pleasantly engaging although the writing style was quite verbose and took a slow and somewhat complicated route to arrive at that oh-so-satisfying HEA. And bonus - in addition to amusing entertainment, I actually learned a lot about the process of writing fiction during their interesting and thoughtful lessons and workshop discussions.
February 16, 2019
5☆ Deliciously Heart Warming Romance.
A Must Read!
Summer on the Italian Lakes is such an Endearing and gorgeous read.
I am a big fan of Lucy Coleman's books so when I see this beautiful book I was so excited to read it.
Oh and the book cover.... Wow!... So tranquil and inviting, it's stunning!
Brie was head over heels in love with her celeb boyfriend Paul. Everything was going great.
But the media is brutal and cruel and soon starts a body shaming campaign towards Brie and how awful she looks and that he could do better.
Brie starts to get hateful trolls bullying her online.
Being an Author she relies on her reviews and publicity, and her readers but when the trolls start to attack her books, it's the last straw. Brie is having a breakdown. It doesn't help when her boyfriend dumps her because of the drama. I so wanted to kick his ass!
In a deep emotional slump, and a writers block.
Brie's agent Carrie decides to send her off to the stunning Lake Garda to attend a writers workshop retreat.
To help her heal her heart and get her creative juices flowing again in the hope she can meet her deadline and write her next bestseller!
It's here she meets the handsome and endearing Arran, also a fellow Author.
Wow there is obviously an attraction between them but can Arran get Brie's juices flowing again or is the idyllic and stunning Lake Garda not enough to help create the perfect romance.
Yet again Lucy has weaved her magic once again, she always writes the most mesmerising, heartfelt and captivating stories.
She has a wonderful knack of storytelling, that once you start reading you're hooked and time seems to freeze as you become enthralled.
The characters are believable, well developed, a lil complex, warm, strong, likeable and engaging you can't help routing for them, especially for Brie and Arran who I adored.
The setting descriptions are superbly written, I found myself being transported right into the heart of the story.
I've always wanted to go to Italy so for me this was perfect!
This Gorgeous Book has a lil of everything, drama, heart ache, a glimpse into media bullying and body shaming, new beginnings, relationships, friendships, learning all about writers (which I thoroughly enjoyed) all set in a stunning location.
Summer on the Italian Lakes is a totally absorbing read that is beautifully written.
It's a deliciously heart warming romance that will make you swoon and will sweep you off your feet.
It was an absolute joy to read, i can't recommend this book enough!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
A Must Read!
Summer on the Italian Lakes is such an Endearing and gorgeous read.
I am a big fan of Lucy Coleman's books so when I see this beautiful book I was so excited to read it.
Oh and the book cover.... Wow!... So tranquil and inviting, it's stunning!
Brie was head over heels in love with her celeb boyfriend Paul. Everything was going great.
But the media is brutal and cruel and soon starts a body shaming campaign towards Brie and how awful she looks and that he could do better.
Brie starts to get hateful trolls bullying her online.
Being an Author she relies on her reviews and publicity, and her readers but when the trolls start to attack her books, it's the last straw. Brie is having a breakdown. It doesn't help when her boyfriend dumps her because of the drama. I so wanted to kick his ass!
In a deep emotional slump, and a writers block.
Brie's agent Carrie decides to send her off to the stunning Lake Garda to attend a writers workshop retreat.
To help her heal her heart and get her creative juices flowing again in the hope she can meet her deadline and write her next bestseller!
It's here she meets the handsome and endearing Arran, also a fellow Author.
Wow there is obviously an attraction between them but can Arran get Brie's juices flowing again or is the idyllic and stunning Lake Garda not enough to help create the perfect romance.
Yet again Lucy has weaved her magic once again, she always writes the most mesmerising, heartfelt and captivating stories.
She has a wonderful knack of storytelling, that once you start reading you're hooked and time seems to freeze as you become enthralled.
The characters are believable, well developed, a lil complex, warm, strong, likeable and engaging you can't help routing for them, especially for Brie and Arran who I adored.
The setting descriptions are superbly written, I found myself being transported right into the heart of the story.
I've always wanted to go to Italy so for me this was perfect!
This Gorgeous Book has a lil of everything, drama, heart ache, a glimpse into media bullying and body shaming, new beginnings, relationships, friendships, learning all about writers (which I thoroughly enjoyed) all set in a stunning location.
Summer on the Italian Lakes is a totally absorbing read that is beautifully written.
It's a deliciously heart warming romance that will make you swoon and will sweep you off your feet.
It was an absolute joy to read, i can't recommend this book enough!
Thank you to Rachel Random Resources for this copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
My Review is also on my Blog Website :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2019/0...
February 11, 2019
Winsome, engaging, and lush!
Summer on the Italian Lakes is the uplifting, humorous story of Brie, a young romance writer who heads to Lake Garda to help out at a writing retreat even though her own heart, focus, and self-confidence is in tatters after a recent, public breakup.
The writing is beautiful and vivid. The characters are endearing, intriguing, and authentic. And the plot is a wonderful mix of life, love, family, friendship, light drama, self-discovery, romance, and all the ins and outs of writing a novel.
Overall, Summer on the Italian Lakes is another sophisticated, tender, intriguing tale by Coleman that once again highlights her phenomenal ability to sweep you away to another place through her passion and knowledge for its food, landscape, and culture.
Thank you to Lucy Coleman and Rachel's Random Resources for providing me with a copy in an exchange for an honest review.
Summer on the Italian Lakes is the uplifting, humorous story of Brie, a young romance writer who heads to Lake Garda to help out at a writing retreat even though her own heart, focus, and self-confidence is in tatters after a recent, public breakup.
The writing is beautiful and vivid. The characters are endearing, intriguing, and authentic. And the plot is a wonderful mix of life, love, family, friendship, light drama, self-discovery, romance, and all the ins and outs of writing a novel.
Overall, Summer on the Italian Lakes is another sophisticated, tender, intriguing tale by Coleman that once again highlights her phenomenal ability to sweep you away to another place through her passion and knowledge for its food, landscape, and culture.
Thank you to Lucy Coleman and Rachel's Random Resources for providing me with a copy in an exchange for an honest review.
January 15, 2019
Sadly, I didn't enjoy this book at all. The dialogue felt very stilted and unnatural and the characters lacked the passion needed to make you care about them. There were pages and pages of writing that added nothing interesting to the overall plot, which in itself was a bit dull, and I very nearly gave up reading it many times. Not one I'd recommend.
*I received a copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
*I received a copy of the book from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
August 17, 2023
2.5
Ni žara, ni kemije, ni iskrica, ni leptirića, ni strasti, ni ništa što bi moglo dovesti do ljubavi. Plitka i površna priča gdje su jedine pozitivne stvari bile mjesto radnje, hrana i ideja oko seminara pisanja romana. Kada je bit, srž, osnovna tema knjige loša i ne pronalazimo u njoj ništa smislenog, teško da će ju išta u što je „umotana“ uspjeti spasiti.
Ni žara, ni kemije, ni iskrica, ni leptirića, ni strasti, ni ništa što bi moglo dovesti do ljubavi. Plitka i površna priča gdje su jedine pozitivne stvari bile mjesto radnje, hrana i ideja oko seminara pisanja romana. Kada je bit, srž, osnovna tema knjige loša i ne pronalazimo u njoj ništa smislenog, teško da će ju išta u što je „umotana“ uspjeti spasiti.
July 28, 2023
2.5 ⭐ Dok sam čitala, poželjela sam otputovati na jezero Garda i kušati gastronomsku ponudu iz romana. Ostalo sam već sve zaboravila...
June 16, 2019
3.5/5 Nothing better than reading a book set where you are on holiday ☺
January 20, 2019
This has to be a dream book for a book lover, or anyone with any sorts of writing aspirations, or those who love Italy, or sexy heroes, or just an all around fabulous story.
I have no idea where to start in waxing lyrical about all aspects of this book, I really don't think I could fault anything.
I mean Brie is a romance writer that verges more towards the hot and steamy side of things, but her real life persona is a lot quieter, she is struggling after a rather high profile break up, to the extent her friends and family need to stage an intervention.
Throughout the book we get to know a lot about her writing process, and how the characters come to life in her head. She is writing two books at the same time, and gets involved in another one too, so that is a lot of Brie's fictional characters we get to know as she writes her books.
Thankfully, unlike some books where authors are the main characters, there isn't a full book within a book style approach here, which I am grateful of, as I always find it confusing, and besides hearing about the creative process was far more interesting to me.
The book really gets going when she takes over last minute as a teacher on a writing retreat for a month in Lake Garda, Italy. Such a stunning inspirational location, and the Villa which is so central to the story is owned by the rather more academic author Arran, who is not at all like Brie was imagining.
I loved getting to know the participants for the first week of the writing retreat, and also learning all about Arran too. Not to mention the gorgeous backdrop, interesting information about publishing from some of the workshops, plus Carrie - both Brie and Arran's agent, the Italian food, the couple of planned excursions.
And yet you may be thinking I'm portraying a rather simple book - but that couldn't be further from the truth as both Arran and Brie are complex characters, with all manner of things in their backgrounds that are influencing how they are.
Plus Arran is instrumental to so many of they key story lines. I couldn't get enough of our pair of authors, and was always eager to return, when real life dragged me away from the book.
Words... or at least my words can not do this book justice. You really need go read it for yourself to fully enjoy its wonderfulness!
Thank you to Netgalley and Aria for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I have no idea where to start in waxing lyrical about all aspects of this book, I really don't think I could fault anything.
I mean Brie is a romance writer that verges more towards the hot and steamy side of things, but her real life persona is a lot quieter, she is struggling after a rather high profile break up, to the extent her friends and family need to stage an intervention.
Throughout the book we get to know a lot about her writing process, and how the characters come to life in her head. She is writing two books at the same time, and gets involved in another one too, so that is a lot of Brie's fictional characters we get to know as she writes her books.
Thankfully, unlike some books where authors are the main characters, there isn't a full book within a book style approach here, which I am grateful of, as I always find it confusing, and besides hearing about the creative process was far more interesting to me.
The book really gets going when she takes over last minute as a teacher on a writing retreat for a month in Lake Garda, Italy. Such a stunning inspirational location, and the Villa which is so central to the story is owned by the rather more academic author Arran, who is not at all like Brie was imagining.
I loved getting to know the participants for the first week of the writing retreat, and also learning all about Arran too. Not to mention the gorgeous backdrop, interesting information about publishing from some of the workshops, plus Carrie - both Brie and Arran's agent, the Italian food, the couple of planned excursions.
And yet you may be thinking I'm portraying a rather simple book - but that couldn't be further from the truth as both Arran and Brie are complex characters, with all manner of things in their backgrounds that are influencing how they are.
Plus Arran is instrumental to so many of they key story lines. I couldn't get enough of our pair of authors, and was always eager to return, when real life dragged me away from the book.
Words... or at least my words can not do this book justice. You really need go read it for yourself to fully enjoy its wonderfulness!
Thank you to Netgalley and Aria for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
February 6, 2019
What happens when a romance writer, Brianna Middleton, breaks up with her famous boyfriend, is trolled on the internet by his fans and struggles to write even one sentence for her next book? In this case, she starts eating, keeps on eating, lives in her pjs and worries . . . . That is, until her friends and family stage an intervention which includes a new hairstyle, a personal trainer, a new diet and a total change in attitude. Now add a month staying at a writer's retreat on the shores of Lake Garda, helping superstar author Arran Jamieson and life is definitely going to change for the better! However, will the change bring love and romance for her or will fate have other plans? You'll just have to read it yourself to find out!
Lucy Coleman writes great stories with fantastic, believable characters who draw you into their world, helping you feel their dilemmas and discover their heartwarming romance and this story is no exception to that. It is fun getting to know all the participants at the retreat and I really enjoyed learning more about the writing processes and other aspects of the publication industry through reading about the courses they attended. Both Brie and Arran have a lot of back story which influence their attitudes and behaviour, making them complex characters you get to know better as the story progresses. I can't praise this book highly enough, it is a great story set in a beautiful, sunny location that is a delight to escape into wherever you are and whatever the season.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
Lucy Coleman writes great stories with fantastic, believable characters who draw you into their world, helping you feel their dilemmas and discover their heartwarming romance and this story is no exception to that. It is fun getting to know all the participants at the retreat and I really enjoyed learning more about the writing processes and other aspects of the publication industry through reading about the courses they attended. Both Brie and Arran have a lot of back story which influence their attitudes and behaviour, making them complex characters you get to know better as the story progresses. I can't praise this book highly enough, it is a great story set in a beautiful, sunny location that is a delight to escape into wherever you are and whatever the season.
I requested and was gifted a copy of this book via NetGalley and this is my honest review after choosing to read it.
February 24, 2019
In essence, this is a getaway romance about two authors that come together at a writer’s retreat at the Italian lakes - wonderful and inviting descriptions of the Villa Monteverdi and the views overlooking the lake, make it a worthwhile escapism to Italy, with the right mix of romance and atmosphere to make you feel like you are there.
Brie is a romance writer and Arran, a military historical writer - just about as different as you can get - but the sparks fly and the inevitable romance occurs. Bring into the mix the couple’s separate troubled past relationships and there is enough there to engage the reader.
I do have to admit, however, that I found this book quite methodical, characters cardboard cutouts and the book used as a platform to ‘preach’ on a number of issues - everything from trolling, to relationships, to becoming an author. I found it overall to be rather clinical, providing too much information that did not necessarily weave in seamlessly with the story. It felt at times, as if the author used her book as a forum to speak directly to the reader on these issues with a mixture of her opinion and facts. Unfortunately, that made it somewhat disconnected and even conflicted this message with the plot on one occasion.
So whilst I loved the premise of the story, I found the writing style challenging. I admire the author for making a statement on these important issues, however, it just seemed to be at odds with the overall intended romantic nature of the book.
‘We live in a world where the bad news hits the headlines faster than the good news, if it makes it at all. Good deeds go unrecognised all the time, but I suspect that it’s not often they go totally unnoticed, or unappreciated. What many suffer from is a hesitancy to put themselves in a position where they reach out to offer help, love, or simply a listening ear, because they fear rejection.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
Brie is a romance writer and Arran, a military historical writer - just about as different as you can get - but the sparks fly and the inevitable romance occurs. Bring into the mix the couple’s separate troubled past relationships and there is enough there to engage the reader.
I do have to admit, however, that I found this book quite methodical, characters cardboard cutouts and the book used as a platform to ‘preach’ on a number of issues - everything from trolling, to relationships, to becoming an author. I found it overall to be rather clinical, providing too much information that did not necessarily weave in seamlessly with the story. It felt at times, as if the author used her book as a forum to speak directly to the reader on these issues with a mixture of her opinion and facts. Unfortunately, that made it somewhat disconnected and even conflicted this message with the plot on one occasion.
So whilst I loved the premise of the story, I found the writing style challenging. I admire the author for making a statement on these important issues, however, it just seemed to be at odds with the overall intended romantic nature of the book.
‘We live in a world where the bad news hits the headlines faster than the good news, if it makes it at all. Good deeds go unrecognised all the time, but I suspect that it’s not often they go totally unnoticed, or unappreciated. What many suffer from is a hesitancy to put themselves in a position where they reach out to offer help, love, or simply a listening ear, because they fear rejection.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher and provided through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
January 28, 2019
Enjoyed this more than I actually thought I might! The setting, mostly in Lake Garda, sounded absolutely idyllic and was so descriptive I felt like I had visited myself.
Brie is a best-selling romance author, her books are packed with sex and romance and I loved that it was made very clear to other authors (& the readers of this book!) that as much research and effort goes into writing them as an historical novel for example. Anyway - I digress - Brie is called upon to join Arran Jamieson at his luscious villa near Lake Garda as a last-minute replacement for a writer's retreat. The idea being that fellow authors or aspiring writers visit and have masterclasses with both Arran and Brie as well as some epic sightseeing.
I have neglected to tell you that Arran is also an author but is struggling with some of the romance in his story as it is not his forte so his agent, Carrie, has deliberately sent Brie (Carrie is also her agent) to assist not only with the retreat but also with polishing off some of Arran's story. The effort that clearly goes into not only writing the story in the first instance but then the editing and re-reading process before it even goes to your agent and prospective publisher is immense and was an eye-opener that I really appreciated.
Along the way Brie and Arran fall for one another, I loved their romance and Arran, despite saying he was not romantic, really made me swoon!
There were supposed to be 4x 1-week retreats run consecutively but halfway through the novel we were still being treated to the first retreat and those guests and it started to make me wonder if the story was going to be rushed as I knew Brie was going to have to return to the UK but what about Arran? Could she really leave him behind?
As much as I enjoyed reading about the retreats, Brie's dad ends up in hospital and she has to return home quickly to be with him which gave the story a turning point. This also gave the opportunity to see if their relationship was the real deal and not just a whimsical holiday romance- you got the feeling from the outset this one was special though.
I adored this whole story, it was simply perfect and I felt like I was learning so much along the way too so it was quite educational both in terms of writing and Italy itself! I couldn't recommend this enough, what are you waiting for?! Please pick up this heart-warming, romantic and very interesting novel!
My many thanks to Aria and NetGalley for providing me with this advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
Brie is a best-selling romance author, her books are packed with sex and romance and I loved that it was made very clear to other authors (& the readers of this book!) that as much research and effort goes into writing them as an historical novel for example. Anyway - I digress - Brie is called upon to join Arran Jamieson at his luscious villa near Lake Garda as a last-minute replacement for a writer's retreat. The idea being that fellow authors or aspiring writers visit and have masterclasses with both Arran and Brie as well as some epic sightseeing.
I have neglected to tell you that Arran is also an author but is struggling with some of the romance in his story as it is not his forte so his agent, Carrie, has deliberately sent Brie (Carrie is also her agent) to assist not only with the retreat but also with polishing off some of Arran's story. The effort that clearly goes into not only writing the story in the first instance but then the editing and re-reading process before it even goes to your agent and prospective publisher is immense and was an eye-opener that I really appreciated.
Along the way Brie and Arran fall for one another, I loved their romance and Arran, despite saying he was not romantic, really made me swoon!
There were supposed to be 4x 1-week retreats run consecutively but halfway through the novel we were still being treated to the first retreat and those guests and it started to make me wonder if the story was going to be rushed as I knew Brie was going to have to return to the UK but what about Arran? Could she really leave him behind?
As much as I enjoyed reading about the retreats, Brie's dad ends up in hospital and she has to return home quickly to be with him which gave the story a turning point. This also gave the opportunity to see if their relationship was the real deal and not just a whimsical holiday romance- you got the feeling from the outset this one was special though.
I adored this whole story, it was simply perfect and I felt like I was learning so much along the way too so it was quite educational both in terms of writing and Italy itself! I couldn't recommend this enough, what are you waiting for?! Please pick up this heart-warming, romantic and very interesting novel!
My many thanks to Aria and NetGalley for providing me with this advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 25, 2019
I was first drawn to the cover. Who wouldn't like that appealing cover? I cannot understand the covers of some of the stories I read. So drab, so unreasonable for want of a better descriptio
Brie Middleton is a successful author of romance fiction, hot dashing heroes and steamy love scenes. Her personal life is in a shambles right now. Let down by a boyfriend who was more interested in image than her sterling qualities, he wanted sexy arm candy and when her weight started ballooning he ditched her. Brie went into hibernation, could hardly write and had no self confidence at all.
Her agent pushes her to go into a working conference in Salo, Italy helping out a fellow author in a crisis. How meeting Arran, working again with other writers and to be authors helped Brie to change her life around. She found a new love, a new focus in her life and it helped that the setting was so idyllic.
Liked the cover too.
Brie Middleton is a successful author of romance fiction, hot dashing heroes and steamy love scenes. Her personal life is in a shambles right now. Let down by a boyfriend who was more interested in image than her sterling qualities, he wanted sexy arm candy and when her weight started ballooning he ditched her. Brie went into hibernation, could hardly write and had no self confidence at all.
Her agent pushes her to go into a working conference in Salo, Italy helping out a fellow author in a crisis. How meeting Arran, working again with other writers and to be authors helped Brie to change her life around. She found a new love, a new focus in her life and it helped that the setting was so idyllic.
Liked the cover too.
February 7, 2019
Don’t you just want to dive in to this gorgeous scene? I know I do, I can feel the sunshine beaming out from cover and lifting the winter chill.
This is another lovely, warm book from Lucy Coleman, who is fast becoming one of my favourite authors. This time we are following author, Brianna Middleton, as she takes up the mantle of writing tutor on a summer retreat in the Italian Lakes, whilst considering her own writing path and lack of romantic life – since the heroines in her books have way more going on in the relationship department that she has. Will meeting handsome fellow author, Arran Jamieson kickstart her romantic mojo in more ways than one?
Lucy always writes really likeable and relatable protagonists and Brianna is no exception. She is shown from the beginning of the book to be an intelligent, ambitious but possible lonely, and definitely lost, woman that you can’t possibly help but feel for. She is very open and honest with the struggles she is having, and we start off with a clear picture of what is wrong in her life and that something definitely needs to change.
Cue a fortuitous opening at a writing retreat in a villa on the shores of Lake Garda run by military historian and author, Arran Jamieson, who has problems of his own. They share an agent, who is hoping that her two clients may be able to help each other out.
The author does a great job of portraying a beautiful, lakeside setting that will draw the reader right in to the heart of Lake Garda and its environs, touching every sense with her vivid descriptions and making you wish you were there as you discover the area through Brianna’s eyes. It is the perfect read for a chilly winter weekend and I could practically feel my levels of Vitamin D rising as I read and long to book an Italian escape of my own as soon as possible.
As a writer, I also found the insight into the whole writing process that the author depicts absolutely fascinating and it brought me even closer to the character. I don’t know how much of what is described actually reflects Lucy’s own process – I’m guessing quite a lot as it would be hard to describe someone else’s writing routine so vividly – but to get a glimpse in to how other authors might work is intriguing and inspiring (although some activities I’m assuming are pure imagination and NOT part of Lucy’s daily writing routine, or maybe they are!) Anyway, I think authors and wannabe authors will really find this book has an added dimension of interest for them.
The romantic arc develops rather rapidly, it did quite take my breath away how fast it moved, but this is such a heart-warming, fun, sunshine-y, positive read that it would be positively churlish to put forward any real criticism of this book. I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish – setting, characters, plot and themed. I can’t see that anyone who enjoys this type of book will not like it. Highly recommended.
This is another lovely, warm book from Lucy Coleman, who is fast becoming one of my favourite authors. This time we are following author, Brianna Middleton, as she takes up the mantle of writing tutor on a summer retreat in the Italian Lakes, whilst considering her own writing path and lack of romantic life – since the heroines in her books have way more going on in the relationship department that she has. Will meeting handsome fellow author, Arran Jamieson kickstart her romantic mojo in more ways than one?
Lucy always writes really likeable and relatable protagonists and Brianna is no exception. She is shown from the beginning of the book to be an intelligent, ambitious but possible lonely, and definitely lost, woman that you can’t possibly help but feel for. She is very open and honest with the struggles she is having, and we start off with a clear picture of what is wrong in her life and that something definitely needs to change.
Cue a fortuitous opening at a writing retreat in a villa on the shores of Lake Garda run by military historian and author, Arran Jamieson, who has problems of his own. They share an agent, who is hoping that her two clients may be able to help each other out.
The author does a great job of portraying a beautiful, lakeside setting that will draw the reader right in to the heart of Lake Garda and its environs, touching every sense with her vivid descriptions and making you wish you were there as you discover the area through Brianna’s eyes. It is the perfect read for a chilly winter weekend and I could practically feel my levels of Vitamin D rising as I read and long to book an Italian escape of my own as soon as possible.
As a writer, I also found the insight into the whole writing process that the author depicts absolutely fascinating and it brought me even closer to the character. I don’t know how much of what is described actually reflects Lucy’s own process – I’m guessing quite a lot as it would be hard to describe someone else’s writing routine so vividly – but to get a glimpse in to how other authors might work is intriguing and inspiring (although some activities I’m assuming are pure imagination and NOT part of Lucy’s daily writing routine, or maybe they are!) Anyway, I think authors and wannabe authors will really find this book has an added dimension of interest for them.
The romantic arc develops rather rapidly, it did quite take my breath away how fast it moved, but this is such a heart-warming, fun, sunshine-y, positive read that it would be positively churlish to put forward any real criticism of this book. I thoroughly enjoyed it from start to finish – setting, characters, plot and themed. I can’t see that anyone who enjoys this type of book will not like it. Highly recommended.
February 13, 2019
Do you love the sun? Would you like to know a bit more about how books are ‘born’? Do you like romance? If you tick all these boxes, you will enjoy this story as much as I did.
Being famous opens a lot of doors and social media are a perfect way to talk to people, but those doors are also open to trolls and not so well wishers or people wanting something for themselves by harming someone else.
But when you find that one special person, you can conquer whatever comes to you. Even if people are not supportive, together you are strong and you know that the most important one is having your back. And when others are starting to see what you see, you can relax and focus on your happy ever after.
A lovely and warm story with a bit of Italian history and a look behind the screens of the world of books. 4 stars.
Thank you, Lucy Coleman and Rachels Random Rescources.
Book received courtesy of publisher/author.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
Being famous opens a lot of doors and social media are a perfect way to talk to people, but those doors are also open to trolls and not so well wishers or people wanting something for themselves by harming someone else.
But when you find that one special person, you can conquer whatever comes to you. Even if people are not supportive, together you are strong and you know that the most important one is having your back. And when others are starting to see what you see, you can relax and focus on your happy ever after.
A lovely and warm story with a bit of Italian history and a look behind the screens of the world of books. 4 stars.
Thank you, Lucy Coleman and Rachels Random Rescources.
Book received courtesy of publisher/author.
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
August 6, 2020
Glavna junakinja ovog romana - Brie Middleton - poznata je autorica erotskih romana (da, da, popularnih seksića). No, za razliku od junaka vlastitih romana, Brie žudi za romantičnom pričom u kojoj seks neće imati glavnu ulogu, već će to biti jedna od onih filmskih, osjećajnih ljubavi koje oduzimaju dah. Nažalost, budući da se Brie, nakon kraha veze s poznatim rokerom, tijekom koje su se i ona i njeno samopouzdanje našli na meti nemilosrdnih tračerskih rubrika, povukla u pomalo pustinjački život, njeni snovi o vlastitom 'happily ever after' osuđeni su da ostanu upravo to - snovi.
Srećom po Brie, tu su njeni prijatelji koji ne posustaju tako lako, posebno njena prijateljica Mel, koja ju naposlijetku uspije natjerati da se trgne i učini nešto sa nezadovoljstvom koje osjeća prema vlastitom životu. A onda tu sleti i nenadan poziv na ljetni seminar u Italiji, tijekom kojeg bi Brie trebala biti gošća predavačica na imanju kolege pisca Arrana Jamiesona.
Predivna vila na obroncima brežuljka uz Lago di Garda sama po sebi oduzima dah, a ono na što se Brie nikako nije pripremila je mogućnost da joj dah oduzme i Arran.
Kako to izgleda kada se dvoje povučenih i opreznih ljudi, koji ljubav shvaćaju posve suprotno, spoji? Pa, možda ne kao filmska romansa o kakvoj je Brie sanjala, ali ipak romansa koja će joj donijeti upravo ono za čim je cijelo ovo vrijeme tragala: vlastiti 'happily ever after'.
'Ljeto na talijanskom jezeru' pravi je ljetni roman, bilo da ga čitate na plaži ili negdje gdje o toj plaži samo sanjate. Iako je vjerojatnije da uz njega plaža o kojoj ćete sanjati neće biti ona na moru, već ona na jezeru Garda. Mislim, pa pogledajte samo tu naslovnicu!
Brie i Arran šarmantan su par, iako to možda na prvu ne djeluje tako, a njihova ljubavna priča nije jedna od onih u kojima se dogodi ljubav na prvi pogled, već je ovdje riječ o ljubavi koja se postupno gradi. Počne neobavezno, ležerno, zabavno, a ispostavi se da je prava stvar - za njih oboje.
Brie se čitavo vrijeme vrlo dobro nosi sa vlastitim nesigurnostima i bez zadrške progovara o udarcima koje je pretrpjelo njeno samopouzdanje kada su ju potpuni stranci počeli prozivati na internetu, govoreći joj da nije dovoljno lijepa za dečka rokera s kojim je tada izlazila, na svakom joj koraku tražeći nove mane i radosno se njima nabacujući. Brie je sjajno naglasila koliko joj je ovdje značila podrška obitelji i prijatelja, koji su zajedničkim snagama uspjeli istjerati je iz rupe u koju se samosažaljenjem zakopala. Svidjelo mi se što Brie nije krenula poboljšavati samu sebe kako bi zadivila nekog muškarca, već kako bi bila zadovoljna sama sobom, što joj je, u konačnici, dalo i samopouzdanja da ponovno krene u potragu za ljubavi. Tek se tada u priči pojavio i Arran.
Ono što Brieinu i Arranovu ljubavnu priiču izdvaja iz mase je to što je ona manje-više realna. Govori o dvoje ljudi s puno problema i nesigurnosti koji odluče jedno drugo pustiti blizu i vidjeti što će se dogoditi. I ne slažu se baš uvijek - ima tu i ponekih sukoba i nesporazuma (pogotovo u početku), ali ima i dosta duhovitih situacija. Ima, doduše i nešto razvučenih dijaloga i bespotrebnih rasprava, ali tako je to u vezama - nisu sve samo duge i jednorozi. Jedino bez čega mislim da bi ova priča mogla je Arranova bivša žena i njena uloga u čitavoj priči, koja tu priču lagano naginje prema sapunici. Čini mi se pomalo bespotrebna i bez neke svrhe, osim da malo zakomplicira situaciju.
Ono što je super su opisi predivne vile i jezera na kojem se smjestila. Voljela bih da je tih opisa i opisa dojma o okolnim gradićima bilo i više. Osim kratkih izleta u Salo i Veronu, koji su se više dotakli hrane i restorana nego ambijenta i samih gradova, autorica se usredotočila na ljubavnu priču, a imam dojam da je propustila dočarati nam još malo i predivnu lokaciju na koju je tu priču smjestila. Arranova vila zvuči kao predivno mjesto, no ne bi mi smetalo da sam čitajući uspjela bolje 'okusiti' i malo njene okolice.
Ako volite ljubavne romane, mislim da bi vam se ovaj mogao doista svidjeti. Pogotovo ako ste, poput Brie, beznadni romantičari. Brie će vam pokazati da je ponekad princ na bijelom konju bliže nego što mislite, a ukazat će vam i na mogućnost da možda uopće niste u potrazi za princom, već nekim puno uzemljenijim, realnijim, svakodnevnijim.
"Ponekad junak ne dojaše na bijelom konju niti vam pokuca na vrata naručja puna cvijeća. On vas često nasmije kada se najmanje nadate tome - kao kada zurite u fotografiju na internetu na kojoj ste oboje nagi, a vaša vam se majka odjednom nađe iza leđa. A onda on objavi, sasvim hrabro i ponosno, da ste prelijepi."
Srećom po Brie, tu su njeni prijatelji koji ne posustaju tako lako, posebno njena prijateljica Mel, koja ju naposlijetku uspije natjerati da se trgne i učini nešto sa nezadovoljstvom koje osjeća prema vlastitom životu. A onda tu sleti i nenadan poziv na ljetni seminar u Italiji, tijekom kojeg bi Brie trebala biti gošća predavačica na imanju kolege pisca Arrana Jamiesona.
Predivna vila na obroncima brežuljka uz Lago di Garda sama po sebi oduzima dah, a ono na što se Brie nikako nije pripremila je mogućnost da joj dah oduzme i Arran.
Kako to izgleda kada se dvoje povučenih i opreznih ljudi, koji ljubav shvaćaju posve suprotno, spoji? Pa, možda ne kao filmska romansa o kakvoj je Brie sanjala, ali ipak romansa koja će joj donijeti upravo ono za čim je cijelo ovo vrijeme tragala: vlastiti 'happily ever after'.
'Ljeto na talijanskom jezeru' pravi je ljetni roman, bilo da ga čitate na plaži ili negdje gdje o toj plaži samo sanjate. Iako je vjerojatnije da uz njega plaža o kojoj ćete sanjati neće biti ona na moru, već ona na jezeru Garda. Mislim, pa pogledajte samo tu naslovnicu!
Brie i Arran šarmantan su par, iako to možda na prvu ne djeluje tako, a njihova ljubavna priča nije jedna od onih u kojima se dogodi ljubav na prvi pogled, već je ovdje riječ o ljubavi koja se postupno gradi. Počne neobavezno, ležerno, zabavno, a ispostavi se da je prava stvar - za njih oboje.
Brie se čitavo vrijeme vrlo dobro nosi sa vlastitim nesigurnostima i bez zadrške progovara o udarcima koje je pretrpjelo njeno samopouzdanje kada su ju potpuni stranci počeli prozivati na internetu, govoreći joj da nije dovoljno lijepa za dečka rokera s kojim je tada izlazila, na svakom joj koraku tražeći nove mane i radosno se njima nabacujući. Brie je sjajno naglasila koliko joj je ovdje značila podrška obitelji i prijatelja, koji su zajedničkim snagama uspjeli istjerati je iz rupe u koju se samosažaljenjem zakopala. Svidjelo mi se što Brie nije krenula poboljšavati samu sebe kako bi zadivila nekog muškarca, već kako bi bila zadovoljna sama sobom, što joj je, u konačnici, dalo i samopouzdanja da ponovno krene u potragu za ljubavi. Tek se tada u priči pojavio i Arran.
Ono što Brieinu i Arranovu ljubavnu priiču izdvaja iz mase je to što je ona manje-više realna. Govori o dvoje ljudi s puno problema i nesigurnosti koji odluče jedno drugo pustiti blizu i vidjeti što će se dogoditi. I ne slažu se baš uvijek - ima tu i ponekih sukoba i nesporazuma (pogotovo u početku), ali ima i dosta duhovitih situacija. Ima, doduše i nešto razvučenih dijaloga i bespotrebnih rasprava, ali tako je to u vezama - nisu sve samo duge i jednorozi. Jedino bez čega mislim da bi ova priča mogla je Arranova bivša žena i njena uloga u čitavoj priči, koja tu priču lagano naginje prema sapunici. Čini mi se pomalo bespotrebna i bez neke svrhe, osim da malo zakomplicira situaciju.
Ono što je super su opisi predivne vile i jezera na kojem se smjestila. Voljela bih da je tih opisa i opisa dojma o okolnim gradićima bilo i više. Osim kratkih izleta u Salo i Veronu, koji su se više dotakli hrane i restorana nego ambijenta i samih gradova, autorica se usredotočila na ljubavnu priču, a imam dojam da je propustila dočarati nam još malo i predivnu lokaciju na koju je tu priču smjestila. Arranova vila zvuči kao predivno mjesto, no ne bi mi smetalo da sam čitajući uspjela bolje 'okusiti' i malo njene okolice.
Ako volite ljubavne romane, mislim da bi vam se ovaj mogao doista svidjeti. Pogotovo ako ste, poput Brie, beznadni romantičari. Brie će vam pokazati da je ponekad princ na bijelom konju bliže nego što mislite, a ukazat će vam i na mogućnost da možda uopće niste u potrazi za princom, već nekim puno uzemljenijim, realnijim, svakodnevnijim.
"Ponekad junak ne dojaše na bijelom konju niti vam pokuca na vrata naručja puna cvijeća. On vas često nasmije kada se najmanje nadate tome - kao kada zurite u fotografiju na internetu na kojoj ste oboje nagi, a vaša vam se majka odjednom nađe iza leđa. A onda on objavi, sasvim hrabro i ponosno, da ste prelijepi."
February 5, 2019
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from Netgalley
First of all, I have to take my hat off to the cover designer for SUMMER ON THE ITALIAN LAKES by Lucy Coleman as it so beautiful and I found myself going back to look at it time after time. And I am delighted to say that the story inside is just as stunning!
What do you do when you're a romance author who doesn't believe in romance anymore? Well, that is the situation that Brie finds herself in after she is dumped by her celebrity boyfriend. Needing to write another bestseller Brie just cannot find the spark that always came so easily to her before but it's not surprising considering all of the online abuse and media intrusion that she has experienced. But after her loved ones give her a stern talking to, Brie knows that she needs to do something to get herself out of this funk that she has fallen into and soon she has more than one book idea brewing. When the opportunity to teach in Italy presents itself, Brie jumps at it with both hands as who wouldn't be inspired by the beauty and culture of the Lakes and when she meets Arran Jamieson, romance may just jump off the page and into her life ...
The setting is stunning in SUMMER ON THE ITALIAN LAKES and Lucy Coleman has a real talent for painting the soul of a place and making you desperate to visit there yourself. The characters are well-developed and engaging and I was rooting for Brie from the very beginning and by the end felt like she was an old friend. There are romance and laughter, questions of self-worth and self-belief, and all of it combines to make this my favourite Lucy Coleman book so far.
SUMMER ON THE ITALIAN LAKES by Lucy Coleman is a must-read for romance and contemporary fiction fans everywhere and I cannot wait for Lucy's next book.
First of all, I have to take my hat off to the cover designer for SUMMER ON THE ITALIAN LAKES by Lucy Coleman as it so beautiful and I found myself going back to look at it time after time. And I am delighted to say that the story inside is just as stunning!
What do you do when you're a romance author who doesn't believe in romance anymore? Well, that is the situation that Brie finds herself in after she is dumped by her celebrity boyfriend. Needing to write another bestseller Brie just cannot find the spark that always came so easily to her before but it's not surprising considering all of the online abuse and media intrusion that she has experienced. But after her loved ones give her a stern talking to, Brie knows that she needs to do something to get herself out of this funk that she has fallen into and soon she has more than one book idea brewing. When the opportunity to teach in Italy presents itself, Brie jumps at it with both hands as who wouldn't be inspired by the beauty and culture of the Lakes and when she meets Arran Jamieson, romance may just jump off the page and into her life ...
The setting is stunning in SUMMER ON THE ITALIAN LAKES and Lucy Coleman has a real talent for painting the soul of a place and making you desperate to visit there yourself. The characters are well-developed and engaging and I was rooting for Brie from the very beginning and by the end felt like she was an old friend. There are romance and laughter, questions of self-worth and self-belief, and all of it combines to make this my favourite Lucy Coleman book so far.
SUMMER ON THE ITALIAN LAKES by Lucy Coleman is a must-read for romance and contemporary fiction fans everywhere and I cannot wait for Lucy's next book.
December 22, 2019
This was such a lovely read. I could have booked a place on the writing retreat and spent time enjoying the vividly described setting!
Brie has been booked to lead some classes for groups of writers and also finish her latest book. Arran owns the villa and is also working on a new book and is receptive to Brie’s advice on how to appeal to a wider audience.
The characters are so well drawn that you feel that you are along with them , taking the classes, sightseeing and generally enjoying the ambience.
I can’t wait to read more by Lucy Coleman
Brie has been booked to lead some classes for groups of writers and also finish her latest book. Arran owns the villa and is also working on a new book and is receptive to Brie’s advice on how to appeal to a wider audience.
The characters are so well drawn that you feel that you are along with them , taking the classes, sightseeing and generally enjoying the ambience.
I can’t wait to read more by Lucy Coleman
February 10, 2019
What better way to blow away the cold February cobwebs than to escape to the Italian Lakes! Author, Brianna Middleton is struggling with her work. Not only does she have writer’s block, but the steamy romance that she writes about is the only romance that features in her life at the moment! When the opportunity to spend the summer teaching at a writers retreat arises in Italy, Brianna realises this could be just the thing she needs to add the spark back into, not just her writing but her own love-life!
Obviously the first thing that attracted me to this book was the word “Summer”!! Freezing cold Britain is all that is realistically on offer to me at the moment, so a little bit of escapism over to the warm sun of the Italian Lakes was just what the doctor ordered! The cover was also very tempting with blue skies and the equally blue water of Lake Garda. The fact that it was also Lucy Coleman who was writing was also another big plus!! (For those of you who aren’t in the know though, Lucy Coleman is the pen name for author Linn B. Halton, and if you’ve not tried any of her books then I highly recommend you do!)
I really liked Brianna’s character. She’s obviously a very talented author but can’t quite add the same level of romance into her own life as what she does with her novels. She also seems to be suffering from very low self-esteem which doesn’t really help with her writing mojo! The storyline does seem to give the impression that an author’s life, particularly Brianna’s life, can be a very lonely one, hidden away for long periods of time to write a book which makes a lot of people happy….just not the author herself! I did feel quite sorry for Brianna and kept everything crossed that the author gave her a happy ending!
Heading over to the writing retreat based at Lake Garda gave Brianna the opportunity to meet fellow author, Arran Jamieson who also appears to have problems of his own in the romance department. I loved how the relationship between the two of them developed and the hope that Brianna finds some happiness had me turning the pages furiously to reach the end!! The setting in the Italian Lakes was just absolutely perfect and so well described, to the point that I could just imagine myself lounging by the lakes with a good book and a large Campari Spritz!
Not being an author myself (and never attempted to write anything other than a review!), I loved the detail that went into describing the authors retreat! It gave great information and inspiration to aspiring authors, obviously only which an established author could have done! This book was a lovely heart-warming read of friendship and love. It is absolutely perfect for a cold winter’s day or ideal for a summer holiday read. Either way, I’m sure anyone that reads it will love it as much as I did! Highly recommended!
Obviously the first thing that attracted me to this book was the word “Summer”!! Freezing cold Britain is all that is realistically on offer to me at the moment, so a little bit of escapism over to the warm sun of the Italian Lakes was just what the doctor ordered! The cover was also very tempting with blue skies and the equally blue water of Lake Garda. The fact that it was also Lucy Coleman who was writing was also another big plus!! (For those of you who aren’t in the know though, Lucy Coleman is the pen name for author Linn B. Halton, and if you’ve not tried any of her books then I highly recommend you do!)
I really liked Brianna’s character. She’s obviously a very talented author but can’t quite add the same level of romance into her own life as what she does with her novels. She also seems to be suffering from very low self-esteem which doesn’t really help with her writing mojo! The storyline does seem to give the impression that an author’s life, particularly Brianna’s life, can be a very lonely one, hidden away for long periods of time to write a book which makes a lot of people happy….just not the author herself! I did feel quite sorry for Brianna and kept everything crossed that the author gave her a happy ending!
Heading over to the writing retreat based at Lake Garda gave Brianna the opportunity to meet fellow author, Arran Jamieson who also appears to have problems of his own in the romance department. I loved how the relationship between the two of them developed and the hope that Brianna finds some happiness had me turning the pages furiously to reach the end!! The setting in the Italian Lakes was just absolutely perfect and so well described, to the point that I could just imagine myself lounging by the lakes with a good book and a large Campari Spritz!
Not being an author myself (and never attempted to write anything other than a review!), I loved the detail that went into describing the authors retreat! It gave great information and inspiration to aspiring authors, obviously only which an established author could have done! This book was a lovely heart-warming read of friendship and love. It is absolutely perfect for a cold winter’s day or ideal for a summer holiday read. Either way, I’m sure anyone that reads it will love it as much as I did! Highly recommended!
February 12, 2019
A romance author, a history author, Lake Garda, Italian Villa, writers retreat… what more could you possibly want in this fabulous Romance read.
What a great story or rather stories within a story. Brie, the romance writer has had a real tough time and it is her editor that suggests going to the writing retreat. She will be able to help out another author while she is there. That is where Brie meets the fellow author, villa owner and retreat organiser Arran. He is in a bit of a pickle with his life and his manuscript. Contrasting characters with contrasting style…will they mix?
Oh, what a readers dream, I loved the way that I felt I was getting inside an authors head. Brie was a brilliant character and straight away I knew I was going to get on with her. Recent events have knocked her confidence, she is not going out so much and is eating junk food. So the retreat seems like a good idea to help get her back on track, meet new people and get over her writers’ block.
Arran, I didn’t quite know what to make of him at first, he felt dismissive and a little judgmental. Then I got to know him a little more and things started to fall into place. His retreat and the villa are are fabulous sounding places to be.
The author really did a great job of giving a tiny peak into the world of writing, editing, contracts, and publishing showing me a different side to the cover if you like. The author mixed so many things into the story. The tips and advice given by Brie and Arran throughout are really interesting for aspiring writers, writing processes, works in progress and unwarranted media attention feature in this very captivating story.
With a wonderful villa on Lake Garda and also Brie’s home in the UK, I felt completely spoilt with idyllic settings. Romance is surely to be in the air with these stunning locations. As is the way of life though, nothing planned goes to plan, and plans can change or be forced to change very quickly. Tentative steps can lead to giant strides and that is certainly the case with this story.
I really enjoyed this story, learning about Brie and Arran, getting to know them a little more and what makes them tick. Discovering more about writing retreats and the downsides to being a known author. This story ticked so many boxes and was a wonderful read for a cold, wet wintery January day. Perfect escapism for a few blissful hours. It is one I would definitely recommend.
What a great story or rather stories within a story. Brie, the romance writer has had a real tough time and it is her editor that suggests going to the writing retreat. She will be able to help out another author while she is there. That is where Brie meets the fellow author, villa owner and retreat organiser Arran. He is in a bit of a pickle with his life and his manuscript. Contrasting characters with contrasting style…will they mix?
Oh, what a readers dream, I loved the way that I felt I was getting inside an authors head. Brie was a brilliant character and straight away I knew I was going to get on with her. Recent events have knocked her confidence, she is not going out so much and is eating junk food. So the retreat seems like a good idea to help get her back on track, meet new people and get over her writers’ block.
Arran, I didn’t quite know what to make of him at first, he felt dismissive and a little judgmental. Then I got to know him a little more and things started to fall into place. His retreat and the villa are are fabulous sounding places to be.
The author really did a great job of giving a tiny peak into the world of writing, editing, contracts, and publishing showing me a different side to the cover if you like. The author mixed so many things into the story. The tips and advice given by Brie and Arran throughout are really interesting for aspiring writers, writing processes, works in progress and unwarranted media attention feature in this very captivating story.
With a wonderful villa on Lake Garda and also Brie’s home in the UK, I felt completely spoilt with idyllic settings. Romance is surely to be in the air with these stunning locations. As is the way of life though, nothing planned goes to plan, and plans can change or be forced to change very quickly. Tentative steps can lead to giant strides and that is certainly the case with this story.
I really enjoyed this story, learning about Brie and Arran, getting to know them a little more and what makes them tick. Discovering more about writing retreats and the downsides to being a known author. This story ticked so many boxes and was a wonderful read for a cold, wet wintery January day. Perfect escapism for a few blissful hours. It is one I would definitely recommend.
January 30, 2019
The Blurb :
Bestselling Brianna Middleton has won the hearts of millions of readers with her sweeping - and steamy - love stories. But the girl behind the typewriter is struggling... Not only does she have writer's block, but she's a world-famous romance author with zero romance in her own life.
So the opportunity to spend the summer teaching at a writer's retreat in an idyllic villa on the shores of Lake Garda - owned by superstar author Arran Jamieson - could this be just the thing to fire up Brie's writing - and romantic - mojo?
Brie's sun-drenched Italian summer could be the beginning of this writer's very own happy-ever-after...
My Thoughts :
We meet Author Brianna Middleton, known to many as Brie. After a messy break up she becomes lost and needs to pick herself up and live again. Brie’s agent Carrie decides to send her to a beautiful villa in Lake Garda, Italy to assist as a teacher on a writing retreat. which is where she meets owner and Author, Arran Jamieson. Brie isnt keen but decides to except the challenge.
It was lovely to see the storyline and romance blossom between Brie and Arron and see where they were going as a couple, its a real feel good story. Also watch out for a few unexpected twists and turns along the way, which fitted into the story nicely.
As always I am a big fan or Lucy Coleman/Linn B Halton and really enjoy her books. She has a way of captivating the reader and making her charactors feel like old friends. Great descriptions of the surrounding scenery and Lake Garda, I just loved getting lost in such a beautiful place. Cant wait for the next book she releases.
Bestselling Brianna Middleton has won the hearts of millions of readers with her sweeping - and steamy - love stories. But the girl behind the typewriter is struggling... Not only does she have writer's block, but she's a world-famous romance author with zero romance in her own life.
So the opportunity to spend the summer teaching at a writer's retreat in an idyllic villa on the shores of Lake Garda - owned by superstar author Arran Jamieson - could this be just the thing to fire up Brie's writing - and romantic - mojo?
Brie's sun-drenched Italian summer could be the beginning of this writer's very own happy-ever-after...
My Thoughts :
We meet Author Brianna Middleton, known to many as Brie. After a messy break up she becomes lost and needs to pick herself up and live again. Brie’s agent Carrie decides to send her to a beautiful villa in Lake Garda, Italy to assist as a teacher on a writing retreat. which is where she meets owner and Author, Arran Jamieson. Brie isnt keen but decides to except the challenge.
It was lovely to see the storyline and romance blossom between Brie and Arron and see where they were going as a couple, its a real feel good story. Also watch out for a few unexpected twists and turns along the way, which fitted into the story nicely.
As always I am a big fan or Lucy Coleman/Linn B Halton and really enjoy her books. She has a way of captivating the reader and making her charactors feel like old friends. Great descriptions of the surrounding scenery and Lake Garda, I just loved getting lost in such a beautiful place. Cant wait for the next book she releases.
February 21, 2019
I had heard so many (so so many) people talking about Lucy Coleman but nothing could have prepared me for how quickly I fell in love with this story of a writer (yay!) whose birthday is Valentine’s day (double yay!) and who lives in a ‘quirky five bedroom cottage in the Forest of Dean.’ (Falls over!)
Despite the ample property space and romantic birthday, it’s just her, which is fine, except for an author of erotic fiction who believes totally and absolutely in love and who is obsessed with all things romance, including Jude Law, well, she doesn’t believe it is. Feeling like she’s in a rut, she barricades herself in her lovely cottage and is soon the subject of an intervention which aids in sending her to Italy to work alongside an author who gives amazing courses (truly, as in I really wanted to go to take part in the writing retreat, it covered a lot of things I myself need and would love to work on!) I thought this would be more about the people on the retreat (which would have been very much up my street) but actually this is a very soft spoken, spell binding story of how whirlwind romances can occur when people are actually just looking to find themselves and where they fit. I loved Brie and Arran, swooned at the drama, romance, settings and above all all the writerly bookish parts (in particular Brie defending her genre and her writing, which as an Irish chick lit writer is something I have to do all the time!) Very much recommended and I now have Ms. Coleman bookmarked as an author to watch. Thanks so much to Aria for the book in return for an honest review!
Despite the ample property space and romantic birthday, it’s just her, which is fine, except for an author of erotic fiction who believes totally and absolutely in love and who is obsessed with all things romance, including Jude Law, well, she doesn’t believe it is. Feeling like she’s in a rut, she barricades herself in her lovely cottage and is soon the subject of an intervention which aids in sending her to Italy to work alongside an author who gives amazing courses (truly, as in I really wanted to go to take part in the writing retreat, it covered a lot of things I myself need and would love to work on!) I thought this would be more about the people on the retreat (which would have been very much up my street) but actually this is a very soft spoken, spell binding story of how whirlwind romances can occur when people are actually just looking to find themselves and where they fit. I loved Brie and Arran, swooned at the drama, romance, settings and above all all the writerly bookish parts (in particular Brie defending her genre and her writing, which as an Irish chick lit writer is something I have to do all the time!) Very much recommended and I now have Ms. Coleman bookmarked as an author to watch. Thanks so much to Aria for the book in return for an honest review!
February 13, 2019
This story didn’t draw me in immediately, the tone was so negative. Since this author is known for her positivity, I decided to read on. After the first chapter, I realised the reader is in the main character’s head, and she is in a bad place. So don’t be put off, read on.
There is a lot to like in the remainder of the story, a stunning setting, which I love. Having visited the Lake Garda region in 2004, I can confirm that the author’s description really does capture the essence of this lovely region. The writers’ retreat is also interesting, interspersed with writing and publishing tips, this gives the story its authenticity.
Brie’s life is nothing like her public persona and she begins to wonder if romance exists beyond the passionate words she creates in her sexy novels. When she meets Arran, there is chemistry but also conflict. They are both emotionally raw and have seemingly incompatible personality traits.
I liked the realistic nature of their relationship, with two characters that get under your skin, until you really want them to have their happy ending.
An enjoyable romance, full of vivid imagery and believable characters, and for the most part is positive and heartwarming.
I received a copy of this book from Aria Fiction via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
There is a lot to like in the remainder of the story, a stunning setting, which I love. Having visited the Lake Garda region in 2004, I can confirm that the author’s description really does capture the essence of this lovely region. The writers’ retreat is also interesting, interspersed with writing and publishing tips, this gives the story its authenticity.
Brie’s life is nothing like her public persona and she begins to wonder if romance exists beyond the passionate words she creates in her sexy novels. When she meets Arran, there is chemistry but also conflict. They are both emotionally raw and have seemingly incompatible personality traits.
I liked the realistic nature of their relationship, with two characters that get under your skin, until you really want them to have their happy ending.
An enjoyable romance, full of vivid imagery and believable characters, and for the most part is positive and heartwarming.
I received a copy of this book from Aria Fiction via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
February 18, 2019
Summer on the Italian Lakes has to be my favourite Lucy Coleman novel so far. I have to confess to being somewhat biased as the setting for this novel is on Lake Garda, a favourite holiday destination of mine. Having said that, I really enjoyed the read.
Poor Brie, we meet her during a very low period of her life. A recent split from her rock star boyfriend, bullied by on line trolls and the subject of unkind shots from the paparazzi she turns to food for comfort. It takes friends Mel and Carrie (her agent) plus her parents to turn her around. But they can’t cure one of the most fundamental issues in her life – writer’s block.
Agent Carrie asks here if she would be interested in a month on Lake Garda assisting well known historian and writer of military fiction, Arran Jamieson. He runs an annual writer’s workshop from his home Villa Monteverdi and his usual assistant has a broken ankle. Could this be what she needs to help her kick start her writing once more? Particularly the new novel she’s keen to write, one very far removed from her signature hot hero romances. Carrie also asks if she could assist Arran with a novel he’s currently writing. It’s a complete change from norm, a World War II romance based on a true story.
Despite a difficult start – Brie finds him arrogant - these two characters have a lot in common. Both have gone through traumatic experiences with their partners. Both want to write something different.
Besides the amazing backdrop – both the lake and the villa, I loved the way Brie and Arran’s relationship developed. Both characters were written with great depth which had me wanting things to work out. Arran’s ex-wife Harriet was a real horror and there were moments when I wondered what the outcome would be for both of them.
A lovely romantic read with great characters.
Thank you to Aria and Netgalley for an ARC copy of Summer on the Italian Lakes in exchange for an honest review.
Poor Brie, we meet her during a very low period of her life. A recent split from her rock star boyfriend, bullied by on line trolls and the subject of unkind shots from the paparazzi she turns to food for comfort. It takes friends Mel and Carrie (her agent) plus her parents to turn her around. But they can’t cure one of the most fundamental issues in her life – writer’s block.
Agent Carrie asks here if she would be interested in a month on Lake Garda assisting well known historian and writer of military fiction, Arran Jamieson. He runs an annual writer’s workshop from his home Villa Monteverdi and his usual assistant has a broken ankle. Could this be what she needs to help her kick start her writing once more? Particularly the new novel she’s keen to write, one very far removed from her signature hot hero romances. Carrie also asks if she could assist Arran with a novel he’s currently writing. It’s a complete change from norm, a World War II romance based on a true story.
Despite a difficult start – Brie finds him arrogant - these two characters have a lot in common. Both have gone through traumatic experiences with their partners. Both want to write something different.
Besides the amazing backdrop – both the lake and the villa, I loved the way Brie and Arran’s relationship developed. Both characters were written with great depth which had me wanting things to work out. Arran’s ex-wife Harriet was a real horror and there were moments when I wondered what the outcome would be for both of them.
A lovely romantic read with great characters.
Thank you to Aria and Netgalley for an ARC copy of Summer on the Italian Lakes in exchange for an honest review.
February 1, 2019
Brie is an author who is struggling after a breakup from Paul and right from the beginning, Lucy Coleman gets us inside Brie's head, but not just with relationship-themed thoughts however. We see her plight as an author which, since I myself have drafted various books over the years, found incredibly interesting and I was absorbed by it. I love her character. She is so honest, sensitive, realistic but strong and likeable.
As someone who has their own writing process, I identified with the struggle to find a writing-life balance. Brie gives some useful life advice as she fights against her oen personal demons with the help of her great friend Mel, who I liked also as I found she was so supportive and enjoyed seeing how she helped Brie love herself again. Makeovers and clothes are my thing, so I was hooked and, as a person whose own weight has yoyoed over the years and who decided to make the right choices regarding food and exercise, I found myself cheering out loud as Brie started to focus less on Paul and more on her self care goals.
When her publisher/ agent suggests a writing retreat, Brie isn't sure. She's used to her "style of life" - writing for hours and lounging in her PJs in her cosy cottage. But, she's convinced that if she made one change she can make another and so finds herself on a plane to Italy and staying at a beautiful villa on the shores of Lake Garda. It's not just any villa, but the home of author Arran. Genres and lives merge here and it's clear to see that that is a good place to start with the conversation when they first meet. As with all great books, I will leave this review up to the reader's imagination and just say that I adored this book so much. I felt like, in Brie, Lucy Coleman really epitomised what it is like to seriously get down to it and write a book, whether it gets published or not.
The ins and outs of Brie's writing process gave this book an edge that no other romance has. It is not slushy. It is not predictable. It is so realistic and in Brie, I saw myself. The passion for writing, the meticulous process and the relaxation in the pampering. The thrill of reinventing yourself. I felt like I was traveling with Brie in more ways than one, learning more about another's writing proccess although she was a character in a book. To me, she and Arran were so real.
Summer on the Italian Lake is fun, realistic and relaxing. I have mever been on any writing retreat (except a virtual one in the form of NaNoWriMo) and I loved sharing in Brie and Arran's life. Italy comes to life and I loved it when Brie and Arran were involved in organisung the retreat and even more when Brie helped out......
As a lot of this is about writing and the writing process, I am not sure it is a book for everyone who likes, and is expecting, a clear-cut romance. Because it's not. I definitely feel it will appeal more to you if you are an author or dabbling in writing yourself.
Summer on the Italian Lake is the third book by Lucy Coleman that I have reviewed after A French Adventure and Snowflakes on Holly Cove.
As with any book with a setting in Italy, the food and scenery are spectacular. There's a whole host of different characters (both characters in this book as well as Brie's romances and Arran's history books) to add richness to the plot. As with all of Lucy Coleman's novels, you will fall in love with this. I know I did.
Huge thanks to Lucy Coleman and Aria for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review and I'm thrilled to be on the blog tour for this book. 5 stunning stars. I cannot wait to review more by Lucy Coleman.
As someone who has their own writing process, I identified with the struggle to find a writing-life balance. Brie gives some useful life advice as she fights against her oen personal demons with the help of her great friend Mel, who I liked also as I found she was so supportive and enjoyed seeing how she helped Brie love herself again. Makeovers and clothes are my thing, so I was hooked and, as a person whose own weight has yoyoed over the years and who decided to make the right choices regarding food and exercise, I found myself cheering out loud as Brie started to focus less on Paul and more on her self care goals.
When her publisher/ agent suggests a writing retreat, Brie isn't sure. She's used to her "style of life" - writing for hours and lounging in her PJs in her cosy cottage. But, she's convinced that if she made one change she can make another and so finds herself on a plane to Italy and staying at a beautiful villa on the shores of Lake Garda. It's not just any villa, but the home of author Arran. Genres and lives merge here and it's clear to see that that is a good place to start with the conversation when they first meet. As with all great books, I will leave this review up to the reader's imagination and just say that I adored this book so much. I felt like, in Brie, Lucy Coleman really epitomised what it is like to seriously get down to it and write a book, whether it gets published or not.
The ins and outs of Brie's writing process gave this book an edge that no other romance has. It is not slushy. It is not predictable. It is so realistic and in Brie, I saw myself. The passion for writing, the meticulous process and the relaxation in the pampering. The thrill of reinventing yourself. I felt like I was traveling with Brie in more ways than one, learning more about another's writing proccess although she was a character in a book. To me, she and Arran were so real.
Summer on the Italian Lake is fun, realistic and relaxing. I have mever been on any writing retreat (except a virtual one in the form of NaNoWriMo) and I loved sharing in Brie and Arran's life. Italy comes to life and I loved it when Brie and Arran were involved in organisung the retreat and even more when Brie helped out......
As a lot of this is about writing and the writing process, I am not sure it is a book for everyone who likes, and is expecting, a clear-cut romance. Because it's not. I definitely feel it will appeal more to you if you are an author or dabbling in writing yourself.
Summer on the Italian Lake is the third book by Lucy Coleman that I have reviewed after A French Adventure and Snowflakes on Holly Cove.
As with any book with a setting in Italy, the food and scenery are spectacular. There's a whole host of different characters (both characters in this book as well as Brie's romances and Arran's history books) to add richness to the plot. As with all of Lucy Coleman's novels, you will fall in love with this. I know I did.
Huge thanks to Lucy Coleman and Aria for my ARC in exchange for an honest and voluntary review and I'm thrilled to be on the blog tour for this book. 5 stunning stars. I cannot wait to review more by Lucy Coleman.
January 23, 2019
I requested this book because I was curious to read how the Lake Garda was represented and I can say the writer did a very good job.
On a general level and it's a pleasant and entertaining read, a feel good book that works wonderfully when you need some good escapism.
I liked the style of writing and I liked the characters.
I look forward to reading other books by this author.
Recommended!
Many thanks to Aria and Netgalley for this ARC
On a general level and it's a pleasant and entertaining read, a feel good book that works wonderfully when you need some good escapism.
I liked the style of writing and I liked the characters.
I look forward to reading other books by this author.
Recommended!
Many thanks to Aria and Netgalley for this ARC
March 2, 2024
This had the potential to be fun set in this lovely part of Italy, but oh dear…every other page the main character is droning on about how great she is choosing a salad when everyone else is having pasta
September 29, 2022
It took me ages to finish up this book. To be honest, I'm surprised I actually managed to finish it.
In my opinion, it is cringe and too mainstream. It was as it was written according to some manual. Everything was going the right way, but it lacked that raw emotion. It lacked some kind of obstacles, some kind of twists. I can't see what brought together the characters, I can't find the connection, I don't feel the chemistry. Everything is so clinical.
I'm disappointed.
In my opinion, it is cringe and too mainstream. It was as it was written according to some manual. Everything was going the right way, but it lacked that raw emotion. It lacked some kind of obstacles, some kind of twists. I can't see what brought together the characters, I can't find the connection, I don't feel the chemistry. Everything is so clinical.
I'm disappointed.
August 7, 2023
Ništa specijalno i sve već viđeno (čitano)
May 19, 2019
I wanted something nice and easy. Heartwarming and endearing. I loved the setting of the Italian lakes but unfortunately the actual romance of the book fell flat for me. I didn't really feel anything for the characters and didn't get a sense of passion or connection between Brie and Arran. Their love story just didn't seem believable or realistic to me, and sometimes their dialogue felt a little unnatural. Not a bad book by any means, I just felt nothing for it.
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