What do you think?
Rate this book
In Italy for Love
Live your very own Italian dream and let bestseller Leonie Mack whisk you away.
Julia Volpe’s Italian dream has turned into a nightmare.
Still living with her ex, Luca, a year after they’ve broken up, desperate to sell the dilapidated B&B that was meant to be their future, Jules knows she needs to leave. There are just two problems. Her passport has expired and she’s broke.
Not quite ready to ask her parents for help – at the ripe old age of twenty-seven – Jules decides to head as far away from Luca as she can to work on an olive farm until she has enough money to pay for her passport and a ticket back home.
Jules has sworn off love, but she hadn’t bargained on the beauty of Cividale del Friuli, the ancient Italian town on the banks of the gloriously blue Natisone river. As the community of farmers, neighbours and locals generously welcome her into their lives, Jules can feel her defences crumbling. But it’s when she meets Alex, broodingly handsome yet charmingly gallant, that Jules truly knows she’s in trouble. Because Alex has sworn off love too, and his reasons run deep enough for him to keep his word just as Jules is starting to reconsider her resistance to romance.
Romantic, spell-binding, truly touching and perfect for all fans of Jill Mansell, Mandy Baggot and Sarah Morgan.
'A perfect cosy read for autumn nights. I adored it!' Laura Carter
Julia Volpe’s Italian dream has turned into a nightmare.
Still living with her ex, Luca, a year after they’ve broken up, desperate to sell the dilapidated B&B that was meant to be their future, Jules knows she needs to leave. There are just two problems. Her passport has expired and she’s broke.
Not quite ready to ask her parents for help – at the ripe old age of twenty-seven – Jules decides to head as far away from Luca as she can to work on an olive farm until she has enough money to pay for her passport and a ticket back home.
Jules has sworn off love, but she hadn’t bargained on the beauty of Cividale del Friuli, the ancient Italian town on the banks of the gloriously blue Natisone river. As the community of farmers, neighbours and locals generously welcome her into their lives, Jules can feel her defences crumbling. But it’s when she meets Alex, broodingly handsome yet charmingly gallant, that Jules truly knows she’s in trouble. Because Alex has sworn off love too, and his reasons run deep enough for him to keep his word just as Jules is starting to reconsider her resistance to romance.
Romantic, spell-binding, truly touching and perfect for all fans of Jill Mansell, Mandy Baggot and Sarah Morgan.
'A perfect cosy read for autumn nights. I adored it!' Laura Carter
Audible Audio
First published October 22, 2024
583 people are currently reading
562 people want to read
About the author
Leonie Mack
22 books220 followersAfter leaving Australia ‘for a year’, Leonie never went home and now travels across Europe jotting down love stories wherever she goes. She has a degree in languages and is an expert at taking public transport and travelling under her own steam on foot or by bike. ‘Home’ is now in central Germany, in the vineyards along the Main river, where she spends her time writing happy endings in English and speaking German with bad grammar.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews
October 2, 2024
⭐️⭐️
Let's be 2010s edgy and use hashtags to explain this book.
#autumn #leaves #olives #kind_of_grump_x_grump #happydoggrumpycat #italy #fallvibes_everywhere
So edgy😃
The wind blows a little bit colder (sorry, cheesy frozen reference), and the autumn vibes are all around, and it's October-the season of halloween, so this should've been a perfect seasonal read!!!
Unfortunately, I wasn't too much a fan. I didn't actively dislike it, but I can't say I loved it.
The characters.. despite the backstories they had, they weren't very interesting as humans. Maybe it makes it realistic in a way, but they were awkward with their interactions and actions, and the miscommunication and assumtion of each others' emotions based on facial expressions got a bit too much.
What I did like was everything other than the characters or the plot. Because this book is written in third person pov, it portrays autumn in Italy so well, and now I'm more obsessed with autumn than ever. Olives, harvest and the cool air felt very vivid, so despite not actively engaging in with the characters, I felt more excited for fall than ever!
Oh and this is a completely off the topic side note, but the random Korean show reference was so funny-
"Or liks one of those Korean shows: if we die at the same time, we'll be reborn on the same day and find each ither in the next life"
-yup, sounds like a drama I've watched
Anyways, (I don't know why this review sounds someone sleep deprived wrote it. Maybe it's because I am) overall, this was a good starter for autumn, but not a favoured romance book.
Thank you netgalley and the publisher for providing this book for an honest review
Let's be 2010s edgy and use hashtags to explain this book.
#autumn #leaves #olives #kind_of_grump_x_grump #happydoggrumpycat #italy #fallvibes_everywhere
So edgy😃
The wind blows a little bit colder (sorry, cheesy frozen reference), and the autumn vibes are all around, and it's October-the season of halloween, so this should've been a perfect seasonal read!!!
Unfortunately, I wasn't too much a fan. I didn't actively dislike it, but I can't say I loved it.
The characters.. despite the backstories they had, they weren't very interesting as humans. Maybe it makes it realistic in a way, but they were awkward with their interactions and actions, and the miscommunication and assumtion of each others' emotions based on facial expressions got a bit too much.
What I did like was everything other than the characters or the plot. Because this book is written in third person pov, it portrays autumn in Italy so well, and now I'm more obsessed with autumn than ever. Olives, harvest and the cool air felt very vivid, so despite not actively engaging in with the characters, I felt more excited for fall than ever!
Oh and this is a completely off the topic side note, but the random Korean show reference was so funny-
"Or liks one of those Korean shows: if we die at the same time, we'll be reborn on the same day and find each ither in the next life"
-yup, sounds like a drama I've watched
Anyways, (I don't know why this review sounds someone sleep deprived wrote it. Maybe it's because I am) overall, this was a good starter for autumn, but not a favoured romance book.
Thank you netgalley and the publisher for providing this book for an honest review
September 20, 2024
"just stay on the page with me for a minute, alex. we don't have to turn it yet."
mild spoilers:
i loved alex and the exploration into his grief, that stupid cat and his connection with laura's family <3 and jules!! oh it made me so mad when luca barged in telling her she's always dependent on a man, i loved her determination to make it back home to australia, being with alex wasn't her end goal and i admired that she wasn't going to stay for him (well until she got to the train that is lol). also alex with the grand gesture at the end!
"don't you think it's your turn to be brave"
friuli sounded absolutely beautiful, this author did an amazing job at describing this small area through the seasons and celebrating different traditions and cultures of the furlans. this was a nice romance with some really sweet moments and i absolutely fell in love with the characters and the setting!
mild spoilers:
i loved alex and the exploration into his grief, that stupid cat and his connection with laura's family <3 and jules!! oh it made me so mad when luca barged in telling her she's always dependent on a man, i loved her determination to make it back home to australia, being with alex wasn't her end goal and i admired that she wasn't going to stay for him (well until she got to the train that is lol). also alex with the grand gesture at the end!
"don't you think it's your turn to be brave"
friuli sounded absolutely beautiful, this author did an amazing job at describing this small area through the seasons and celebrating different traditions and cultures of the furlans. this was a nice romance with some really sweet moments and i absolutely fell in love with the characters and the setting!
November 8, 2024
I’m truly a little confused by this book. I wanted to love it. I really did but the writing felt choppy, the characters had little depth.
I loved that it took place in Italy and wanted more imagery for sure. When the author did describe the location, it was beautifully written!
I liked the side characters more than I liked the main ones and that’s because I felt they lacked depth in their growth. It kind of just happens and that’s that. We also didn’t even find out if Jules B&B sold. Like did that ever get taken care of?
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC in exchange of an honest review.
I loved that it took place in Italy and wanted more imagery for sure. When the author did describe the location, it was beautifully written!
I liked the side characters more than I liked the main ones and that’s because I felt they lacked depth in their growth. It kind of just happens and that’s that. We also didn’t even find out if Jules B&B sold. Like did that ever get taken care of?
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the ARC in exchange of an honest review.
September 29, 2024
3.5 stars
While Paris may be known as the "city of love", Italy as a whole, captured my heart years ago when I visited with my parents.
Could it be all the men yelling "bella"?
Could it be the abundance of handsome men?
Could it be some of the best food on Earth, imo?
Could it be the beautiful charm in the small towns throughout the country?
All I know is I could easily find myself wrapped up in it all and changing the course of my life for a man, all in the name of love.
The heroine of the story, Julia Volpe, does just that. Only it doesn't work out so well.
Packing up with low funds and no place to stay, she ventures off to another town - trading labor for a place to stay, while she gets her passport paperwork in order. And on her first day there, she meets Alessandro "Alex" Mattelig. Sharing one night of passion should help get over her broken heart, right?
Fate has other plans in mind, as the two who thought they'd never see each other again, are forced to live together. It was obvious where things would eventually lead, but Alex's past relationship does slow down the whole process.
What I loved most about this story was the life Julia led, immersing herself in this new world, working on an olive farm, and embracing everything around her. I loved how she made the best of the circumstances, even when things seemed to completely go wrong. And I think her attitude about life made Alex rethink his own approach to it.
While parts of this story were predictable, there was still a charm that I relished, and I adored the grand jesture at the end. Overall a fun romance that made me want to rebook a flight to Italy.
For more reviews, visit
*An ARC was received for an honest review.
While Paris may be known as the "city of love", Italy as a whole, captured my heart years ago when I visited with my parents.
Could it be all the men yelling "bella"?
Could it be the abundance of handsome men?
Could it be some of the best food on Earth, imo?
Could it be the beautiful charm in the small towns throughout the country?
All I know is I could easily find myself wrapped up in it all and changing the course of my life for a man, all in the name of love.
The heroine of the story, Julia Volpe, does just that. Only it doesn't work out so well.
Packing up with low funds and no place to stay, she ventures off to another town - trading labor for a place to stay, while she gets her passport paperwork in order. And on her first day there, she meets Alessandro "Alex" Mattelig. Sharing one night of passion should help get over her broken heart, right?
Fate has other plans in mind, as the two who thought they'd never see each other again, are forced to live together. It was obvious where things would eventually lead, but Alex's past relationship does slow down the whole process.
What I loved most about this story was the life Julia led, immersing herself in this new world, working on an olive farm, and embracing everything around her. I loved how she made the best of the circumstances, even when things seemed to completely go wrong. And I think her attitude about life made Alex rethink his own approach to it.
While parts of this story were predictable, there was still a charm that I relished, and I adored the grand jesture at the end. Overall a fun romance that made me want to rebook a flight to Italy.
For more reviews, visit
*An ARC was received for an honest review.
September 18, 2024
ARC!!! A simple Italian love story of a woman getting back on her feet after she and her ex broke up. I liked the premise of volunteering for room and board. The writing is not my favorite, I felt as if it lacked depth. There was a bit overuse of Italian verbiage and not enough description of scenery and depth of feeling. I didn’t get to connect with the characters because of this.
November 7, 2025
What I liked about In Italy for Love:
I loved that the story took place in Italy, my favorite country in the entire world! Whenever Leonie Mack described the scenery, I could picture it so vividly that I wanted to hop on a plane and experience it firsthand. I also really enjoyed the secondary characters; they were entertaining and funny, adding a much-needed spark to the story.
What I disliked about In Italy for Love:
I felt that the overall story was like a cheesy Hallmark Channel movie, where you know from the start how things are going to play out. The writing also felt choppy and lacked real depth, especially in the main characters. I never felt truly connected to them or invested in their relationship. I also found the book's pace to drag at times, making it feel longer than it needed to be.
What do I think would have made In Italy for Love better?:
I would have loved to see more depth and emotion in the two main characters; it would have made their relationship feel more believable and the story more engaging. Also, it would be nice to spice things up a bit and avoid making the entire story so predictable.
Would I recommend In Italy for Love by Leonie Mack?:
Probably not, but that’s also because rom-coms aren’t really my thing. That said, if you enjoy light, predictable romances with a charming Italian backdrop and a few funny side characters, then this one might be for you. For me, though, it just didn’t hit the mark.
***
Julia’s Italian dream quickly turns into a nightmare. Stuck living with her ex and broke after their failed B&B venture, she escapes to work on an olive farm in the small town of Cividale del Friuli. Surrounded by kind locals and stunning scenery, she slowly starts to heal, and just when she least expects it, she meets Alex, a man with his own reasons for swearing off love. What follows is a slow, heartfelt journey of rediscovering hope, trust, and maybe even a second chance at love.
I loved that the story took place in Italy, my favorite country in the entire world! Whenever Leonie Mack described the scenery, I could picture it so vividly that I wanted to hop on a plane and experience it firsthand. I also really enjoyed the secondary characters; they were entertaining and funny, adding a much-needed spark to the story.
What I disliked about In Italy for Love:
I felt that the overall story was like a cheesy Hallmark Channel movie, where you know from the start how things are going to play out. The writing also felt choppy and lacked real depth, especially in the main characters. I never felt truly connected to them or invested in their relationship. I also found the book's pace to drag at times, making it feel longer than it needed to be.
What do I think would have made In Italy for Love better?:
I would have loved to see more depth and emotion in the two main characters; it would have made their relationship feel more believable and the story more engaging. Also, it would be nice to spice things up a bit and avoid making the entire story so predictable.
Would I recommend In Italy for Love by Leonie Mack?:
Probably not, but that’s also because rom-coms aren’t really my thing. That said, if you enjoy light, predictable romances with a charming Italian backdrop and a few funny side characters, then this one might be for you. For me, though, it just didn’t hit the mark.
***
Julia’s Italian dream quickly turns into a nightmare. Stuck living with her ex and broke after their failed B&B venture, she escapes to work on an olive farm in the small town of Cividale del Friuli. Surrounded by kind locals and stunning scenery, she slowly starts to heal, and just when she least expects it, she meets Alex, a man with his own reasons for swearing off love. What follows is a slow, heartfelt journey of rediscovering hope, trust, and maybe even a second chance at love.
October 24, 2024
4.5 stars
In Italy for Love is a story about new beginnings that comes with instantly lovable characters and the vibes of a good long italian vacation you don’t want to end!
Alex and Jules are perfect pair of main characters that I fell in love with the moment they appeared on the page. Both are relatable in their struggles (and grief), and their journey seems so realistic and true, I could have sworn they were real! The bunch of meddling hilarious side characters rounds the story out perfectly!
I don’t think this will be the last Leonie Mack book I‘ve read!
Thanks Netgalley and Boldwood Books for providing me this arc in exchange for an honest review.
In Italy for Love is a story about new beginnings that comes with instantly lovable characters and the vibes of a good long italian vacation you don’t want to end!
Alex and Jules are perfect pair of main characters that I fell in love with the moment they appeared on the page. Both are relatable in their struggles (and grief), and their journey seems so realistic and true, I could have sworn they were real! The bunch of meddling hilarious side characters rounds the story out perfectly!
I don’t think this will be the last Leonie Mack book I‘ve read!
Thanks Netgalley and Boldwood Books for providing me this arc in exchange for an honest review.
February 2, 2025
3.5⭐️
it felt like the author had actually spent time in Italy which helps
it felt like the author had actually spent time in Italy which helps
June 18, 2025
Fun and sweet. Nice descriptions of the Italian countryside.
November 20, 2025
28 year old Julia and her dog leave her partner in Italy to escape a difficult situation. she finds a volunteer job on a farm in country Italy. the story tells of a community that embrace her and make her feel welcome, naturally there is a young widower in the picture.
August 6, 2025
Exactly what you'd hope for from a little romance novel! Quick and easy read but captivating. Enough character development to not have the story feeling stale without being overwhelming. Just enough "what if" to keep you on the edge of your seat but still a very comfortable read. Loved it!
December 7, 2025
I really loved this book. It was such a lovely romantic read. I was rooting for them to be together so much throughout the whole time reading it and they ended up getting married. such a happy ending ☺️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 19, 2024
Once again, I lost my heart to a book by Leonie Mack. She has imagined some of my favourite book boyfriends, and Alex is on a whole new level. The setting, on the border of Italy and a few other countries, including Slovenia and Austria, was absolutely perfect for conveying the frustration that Jules felt, escaping from an unbearable situation.
It was difficult even to imagine how Jules and Luca had found themselves in a situation where they would share a home but not their lives. Having moved to Italy, she thought she had found her life partner. Those thoughts soon ended when they drifted apart, and then he began a new relationship that saw him making her homeless. So, I knew from very early in the book that I disliked Luca, but I initially felt pity for Julia as her situation seemed helpless as she needed a passport to get home to Australia. Pity soon proved to be the wrong choice as a stoic version of Julia, the victim, soon emerged, and I discovered that she was determined, empathetic and certainly not scared of risk.
The town of Cividale del Friuli was easy to imagine. This author has a knack for descriptions, and I could picture everything from the Olive Farm to the bridge over the Natisone River. I could almost hear the tunes from Alex’s accordion as he practised in the streets. The connection between Alex and Julia sizzled despite them both being determined that they had no interest in starting a relationship anytime in the foreseeable future.
Of course, Leonie Mack develops a thorough supporting cast, and some of my favourite moments resulted from the exchanges between the villagers and at the Olive Farm. However, it was the unchoreographed dance between Alex and Julia that held my attention as they skirted around their growing feelings and hid behind their avoidance of heartbreak.
This book gave me everything I needed, from a beautiful romance to a couple of furry characters: a Persian cat, Attila, and Arco, the Lagatto Romagnolo dog – yes, I had to google that, too!
Another new favourite book and new destination added to my bucket list. I definitely need to visit Italy.
It was difficult even to imagine how Jules and Luca had found themselves in a situation where they would share a home but not their lives. Having moved to Italy, she thought she had found her life partner. Those thoughts soon ended when they drifted apart, and then he began a new relationship that saw him making her homeless. So, I knew from very early in the book that I disliked Luca, but I initially felt pity for Julia as her situation seemed helpless as she needed a passport to get home to Australia. Pity soon proved to be the wrong choice as a stoic version of Julia, the victim, soon emerged, and I discovered that she was determined, empathetic and certainly not scared of risk.
The town of Cividale del Friuli was easy to imagine. This author has a knack for descriptions, and I could picture everything from the Olive Farm to the bridge over the Natisone River. I could almost hear the tunes from Alex’s accordion as he practised in the streets. The connection between Alex and Julia sizzled despite them both being determined that they had no interest in starting a relationship anytime in the foreseeable future.
Of course, Leonie Mack develops a thorough supporting cast, and some of my favourite moments resulted from the exchanges between the villagers and at the Olive Farm. However, it was the unchoreographed dance between Alex and Julia that held my attention as they skirted around their growing feelings and hid behind their avoidance of heartbreak.
This book gave me everything I needed, from a beautiful romance to a couple of furry characters: a Persian cat, Attila, and Arco, the Lagatto Romagnolo dog – yes, I had to google that, too!
Another new favourite book and new destination added to my bucket list. I definitely need to visit Italy.
October 26, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Jules and Alex' story as they both were rather intriguing characters with several layers to peel back. In their own way, they are both dealing with heartbreak and issues from the past. The setting in the north of Italy sounds amazing and offers Jules a community and friendship in its own way. Jules is resourceful and determined. People recognise the sincerity behind her actions and respond to her as she wins them round. Slowly she realises that the villagers are being protective of Alex and she can see that the past has hurt him badly.
I found Alex' family to be likeable and they had an important part to play in his growing friendship with Jules. The chemistry between them is undeniable but you are kept guessing whether they will be able to overcome regrets about the past. For a slow burn romance with lively characters and a touch of humour coming from the two animal members of the household, this is well worth a read.
In short: can love find a way?
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
I found Alex' family to be likeable and they had an important part to play in his growing friendship with Jules. The chemistry between them is undeniable but you are kept guessing whether they will be able to overcome regrets about the past. For a slow burn romance with lively characters and a touch of humour coming from the two animal members of the household, this is well worth a read.
In short: can love find a way?
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
September 28, 2024
Want a sweet romance with seriousness, a sprinkling of spice and some feisty pets?
Well, In Italy Love may just be for you!
Julia upped sticks from Australia for love and a handsome Italian man. Fast forward a short while, and things aren't all sweetness and light. She finds herself without a home, money, or support. At least she has Arco, her pup.
Making her way home, she stops in a tiny village, Cividale del Friuli, hoping to wait for an elusive passport to arrive and some clarity about her life before she heads home.
That's when things go a bit awry. Meeting Alex, a busker of sorts, and making an out-of-character suggestion of dinner sparks a journey in a totally different direction to what she had imagined, especially as he ends up entangled in her temporary stay in Friuli. Along with his cat, Attilla.
It is a gorgeous autumnal read with its fair share of emotion and giggles, too.
Thoroughly enjoyed this.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC
Well, In Italy Love may just be for you!
Julia upped sticks from Australia for love and a handsome Italian man. Fast forward a short while, and things aren't all sweetness and light. She finds herself without a home, money, or support. At least she has Arco, her pup.
Making her way home, she stops in a tiny village, Cividale del Friuli, hoping to wait for an elusive passport to arrive and some clarity about her life before she heads home.
That's when things go a bit awry. Meeting Alex, a busker of sorts, and making an out-of-character suggestion of dinner sparks a journey in a totally different direction to what she had imagined, especially as he ends up entangled in her temporary stay in Friuli. Along with his cat, Attilla.
It is a gorgeous autumnal read with its fair share of emotion and giggles, too.
Thoroughly enjoyed this.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC
November 21, 2024
Such a lovely story
March 28, 2025
Started off nicely but just dragged on until you wanted to shake them both!
October 13, 2024
I don’t even know where to begin with this review. I was so completely drawn into the story of Jules and Alex. Of what has been, what is and might be. I normally struggle with third-person pov as I find it hard to feel connected to the story. This book does it so well.
It made me smile and cry, often at the same time. I’m so amazed at how the author captured the pain of a man with such deep scars, with all his conflicting thoughts and feelings. How much he wanted to continue living, but felt lost in a grey world of guilt and torment.
They were so great at communicating, yet so horrible at the same time. I absolutely adored this book, it was painfully beautiful.
Thank you so much to NetGalley for a chance to read this book!
4.5 🌟
‼️ Might be spoilers below ‼️
Favourite quotes and scenes:
🌰 ‘I keep assuming you don’t exist except as a perfect figment of my imagination, like I’ve hit rock bottom, so I invented you to make me feel better.’
🌰 ‘Go and talk to Alex, then. He smiles more with you.’
🌰 ‘I haven’t wanted anyone except her. But I want you.’
🌰 ‘And so, here we are,’ she said softly. ‘Not lovers, not friends – not anything. Future memories.’
🌰 ‘Alessandro Mattelig, you would break my heart if I gave you the chance.’
🌰 ‘They like to gossip, don’t they?’ ‘It’s one of their five-a-day.’
🌰 ‘You’re not a mistake to me,’ he said firmly. ‘You’re a page in my book – one I want to bookmark and return to over and over again.’
🌰 ‘Was that what she really felt? Was that even possible, when he was half a ghost and she was so alive it hurt?’
🌰 ‘We don’t come as naked babies into our relationships. We come with scars’
🌰 ‘Jules froze at the sound of a deep voice, speaking between heavy breaths. If she was dreaming, she wanted to stay asleep for long enough to catch a glimpse.’
🌰 ‘I love you – way more than is sensible. Wherever we are, I don’t want to be without you ever again.’
🌰 ‘With exaggerated flourish, he lifted the sleeve of his T-shirt to show her Stefano’s artwork: a frilly chestnut leaf with two shaded nuts nestled in their spiky case, inked alongside the two bay leaves, as though the picture had always been meant to look that way.’
It made me smile and cry, often at the same time. I’m so amazed at how the author captured the pain of a man with such deep scars, with all his conflicting thoughts and feelings. How much he wanted to continue living, but felt lost in a grey world of guilt and torment.
They were so great at communicating, yet so horrible at the same time. I absolutely adored this book, it was painfully beautiful.
Thank you so much to NetGalley for a chance to read this book!
4.5 🌟
‼️ Might be spoilers below ‼️
Favourite quotes and scenes:
🌰 ‘I keep assuming you don’t exist except as a perfect figment of my imagination, like I’ve hit rock bottom, so I invented you to make me feel better.’
🌰 ‘Go and talk to Alex, then. He smiles more with you.’
🌰 ‘I haven’t wanted anyone except her. But I want you.’
🌰 ‘And so, here we are,’ she said softly. ‘Not lovers, not friends – not anything. Future memories.’
🌰 ‘Alessandro Mattelig, you would break my heart if I gave you the chance.’
🌰 ‘They like to gossip, don’t they?’ ‘It’s one of their five-a-day.’
🌰 ‘You’re not a mistake to me,’ he said firmly. ‘You’re a page in my book – one I want to bookmark and return to over and over again.’
🌰 ‘Was that what she really felt? Was that even possible, when he was half a ghost and she was so alive it hurt?’
🌰 ‘We don’t come as naked babies into our relationships. We come with scars’
🌰 ‘Jules froze at the sound of a deep voice, speaking between heavy breaths. If she was dreaming, she wanted to stay asleep for long enough to catch a glimpse.’
🌰 ‘I love you – way more than is sensible. Wherever we are, I don’t want to be without you ever again.’
🌰 ‘With exaggerated flourish, he lifted the sleeve of his T-shirt to show her Stefano’s artwork: a frilly chestnut leaf with two shaded nuts nestled in their spiky case, inked alongside the two bay leaves, as though the picture had always been meant to look that way.’
September 27, 2024
This was my first Leonie Mack book, and I couldn’t put it down. I loved it!
Julia’s Italian dream has turned into a nightmare.
After moving to Italy for love things didn’t work out the way she’d hoped. Jules is still living with her ex, Luca, a year after they broke up, she’s desperate to sell the rundown B&B that was supposed to be their future. Jules knows she needs to move on, but two things stand in her way: her passport has expired, and she’s broke.
Not wanting to rely on her parents for help, Jules decides to head as far away as possible from Luca and finds herself on a family-run olive farm to work until she has enough money to pay for her passport and a ticket back to Australia.
Jules has sworn off love but the charm of Cividale – a gorgeous town on the banks of the stunning Natisone River and the welcoming community of farmers, locals, and neighbours begins to break down her walls. But it’s when she meets Alex, a handsome and charming man that she realises she’s in trouble. Alex has sworn off love as well and his reasons run deep enough to keep him from breaking his vow just as Jules starts to reconsider hers.
I don’t wanna say anymore – just read this book!!!
The setting was magnificent and so vividly described and written I loved everything about it! Cividale del Friuli sounds absolutely gorgeous and is now on my bucket list, it seems as though there was extensive research done on the setting, culture, etc and it paid off!
It was perfectly paced, the writing was good, and I loved all the characters except the Ex, Luca and especially loved the fur babies!
The character growth was so wholesome, and how the two MCs (Jules and Alex) overcame their struggles. Although heartbreaking I thought the grief element was executed well and it was good the grief was explored and the character development from it.
The family, love, grief, and personal growth elements tug at the heartstrings and really add depth to the story and I liked that it wasn’t solely based on the romance.
There did seem to be lots of Italian words in there and as someone who doesn’t know Italian, I found myself googling a lot!
Enjoyed the one-night stand, and met-again trope!
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Julia’s Italian dream has turned into a nightmare.
After moving to Italy for love things didn’t work out the way she’d hoped. Jules is still living with her ex, Luca, a year after they broke up, she’s desperate to sell the rundown B&B that was supposed to be their future. Jules knows she needs to move on, but two things stand in her way: her passport has expired, and she’s broke.
Not wanting to rely on her parents for help, Jules decides to head as far away as possible from Luca and finds herself on a family-run olive farm to work until she has enough money to pay for her passport and a ticket back to Australia.
Jules has sworn off love but the charm of Cividale – a gorgeous town on the banks of the stunning Natisone River and the welcoming community of farmers, locals, and neighbours begins to break down her walls. But it’s when she meets Alex, a handsome and charming man that she realises she’s in trouble. Alex has sworn off love as well and his reasons run deep enough to keep him from breaking his vow just as Jules starts to reconsider hers.
I don’t wanna say anymore – just read this book!!!
The setting was magnificent and so vividly described and written I loved everything about it! Cividale del Friuli sounds absolutely gorgeous and is now on my bucket list, it seems as though there was extensive research done on the setting, culture, etc and it paid off!
It was perfectly paced, the writing was good, and I loved all the characters except the Ex, Luca and especially loved the fur babies!
The character growth was so wholesome, and how the two MCs (Jules and Alex) overcame their struggles. Although heartbreaking I thought the grief element was executed well and it was good the grief was explored and the character development from it.
The family, love, grief, and personal growth elements tug at the heartstrings and really add depth to the story and I liked that it wasn’t solely based on the romance.
There did seem to be lots of Italian words in there and as someone who doesn’t know Italian, I found myself googling a lot!
Enjoyed the one-night stand, and met-again trope!
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
October 9, 2024
The desire to visit Italy grew even stronger after finishing this - especially Italy in the fall?? How gorgeous it sounds!
This was a lovely fall-vibes romance, perfect to cozy up with while the weather is getting a little chillier outside. I enjoyed Leonie Mack's easy writing as we follow Julia in her adventure to the Friuli area of Udine, an attempt to get "as far away from Italy without leaving Italy" as she could. The vivid descriptions we get of the area, the farm, the buildings, I quite enjoyed and would have loved to get a lot more of that. If I can't travel somewhere in person, I sure do love to travel in books!
Julia is hanging in limbo, waiting for passports so she can escape back to Australia after some turbulence with a past lover and a failed business venture. Her decreasing bank account, lack of place to stay, and the need to get away from her ex-boyfriend drives her to sign up to work on an organic olive farm in exchange for accommodations. Just until she can get back home, right?
Alex, our main male character, is a bit of a mystery for a good portion of the book. As a reader, we get very small tidbits as to what kind of trauma he went through before it finally gets revealed to Julia (and us) and then his behaviors make a lot of sense. I am no stranger to the type of trauma he went through, so I felt the rawness of his emotions, and the way the author wrote about his issues were realistic.
Both of our main characters had good character development, both separately and together, which was nice. Sometimes in a fluffy romance, we don't always get to see that on both sides, even if both parties have different issues they are dealing with. So I appreciated that.
As much as I love a good smutty book, I do also love a nice fade-to-black romance, too, which is what we get in this one. If that type of steamy is your jam, and you like a cozy, slow-burn type of romance set in a picturesque Italian town, this book will be for you.
Thank you to Boldwood Books via NetGalley for the chance to read and review.
This was a lovely fall-vibes romance, perfect to cozy up with while the weather is getting a little chillier outside. I enjoyed Leonie Mack's easy writing as we follow Julia in her adventure to the Friuli area of Udine, an attempt to get "as far away from Italy without leaving Italy" as she could. The vivid descriptions we get of the area, the farm, the buildings, I quite enjoyed and would have loved to get a lot more of that. If I can't travel somewhere in person, I sure do love to travel in books!
Julia is hanging in limbo, waiting for passports so she can escape back to Australia after some turbulence with a past lover and a failed business venture. Her decreasing bank account, lack of place to stay, and the need to get away from her ex-boyfriend drives her to sign up to work on an organic olive farm in exchange for accommodations. Just until she can get back home, right?
Alex, our main male character, is a bit of a mystery for a good portion of the book. As a reader, we get very small tidbits as to what kind of trauma he went through before it finally gets revealed to Julia (and us) and then his behaviors make a lot of sense. I am no stranger to the type of trauma he went through, so I felt the rawness of his emotions, and the way the author wrote about his issues were realistic.
Both of our main characters had good character development, both separately and together, which was nice. Sometimes in a fluffy romance, we don't always get to see that on both sides, even if both parties have different issues they are dealing with. So I appreciated that.
As much as I love a good smutty book, I do also love a nice fade-to-black romance, too, which is what we get in this one. If that type of steamy is your jam, and you like a cozy, slow-burn type of romance set in a picturesque Italian town, this book will be for you.
Thank you to Boldwood Books via NetGalley for the chance to read and review.
October 22, 2024
Thank you NetGalley, Bolwood Books & Leonie Mack for my advanced copy, these are my thoughts:
Jules is running away from her ex, her problems and foolish decisions. In yet another decision made in the spur of the moment, she finds herself in a small town in the middle of nowhere in Italy, and asking a stranger to dinner.
Alex is “not available” but can’t help but be drawn to Jules. Instead of dinner, they grab a drink. The easy conversation and the prospect of never seeing each other again has Alex and Jules spending the night together. But what happens when the one you’re not meant to see ever again, is brought to your doorstep and looking for temporary shelter?
This was an entertaining book. I very much enjoy an escapist romance and am fascinated with Italy. Reading about Cividale del Friuli - its people, the landscape, the language and a little bit about the region’s history, was fascinating. By the end of the book, I wanted to, some day, go and visit this region of Italy.
I liked Jules and Alex together; they had great chemistry and when they weren’t thinking too much and letting their fears take over, their relationship flowed in a way that was sweet and comfortable. However, Alex was very hot and cold and made me want to give him a good shake at times. He was traumatised and heartbroken and his behaviour was justified, but I wanted him to step up and over come his issues. I didn’t want him to lose the opportunity to find love and happiness because of his fears. The nosy friends and neighbours ended up being one of my favourite parts of the story. They really did live up to their local motto and ended up saving the day. Jules, for someone who was nursing a broken heart and a broken dream, was ever the romantic. She was also hard working and adapted well to the constant changes in her situation.
[spice level: suitable for the closed door readers; closed door/fade to black. Sexual intimacy is implied but no on page descriptions - there are pieces of clothing scattered on the bedroom floor].
This was my first book by Leonie Mack but I doubt it will be the last!
Jules is running away from her ex, her problems and foolish decisions. In yet another decision made in the spur of the moment, she finds herself in a small town in the middle of nowhere in Italy, and asking a stranger to dinner.
Alex is “not available” but can’t help but be drawn to Jules. Instead of dinner, they grab a drink. The easy conversation and the prospect of never seeing each other again has Alex and Jules spending the night together. But what happens when the one you’re not meant to see ever again, is brought to your doorstep and looking for temporary shelter?
This was an entertaining book. I very much enjoy an escapist romance and am fascinated with Italy. Reading about Cividale del Friuli - its people, the landscape, the language and a little bit about the region’s history, was fascinating. By the end of the book, I wanted to, some day, go and visit this region of Italy.
I liked Jules and Alex together; they had great chemistry and when they weren’t thinking too much and letting their fears take over, their relationship flowed in a way that was sweet and comfortable. However, Alex was very hot and cold and made me want to give him a good shake at times. He was traumatised and heartbroken and his behaviour was justified, but I wanted him to step up and over come his issues. I didn’t want him to lose the opportunity to find love and happiness because of his fears. The nosy friends and neighbours ended up being one of my favourite parts of the story. They really did live up to their local motto and ended up saving the day. Jules, for someone who was nursing a broken heart and a broken dream, was ever the romantic. She was also hard working and adapted well to the constant changes in her situation.
[spice level: suitable for the closed door readers; closed door/fade to black. Sexual intimacy is implied but no on page descriptions - there are pieces of clothing scattered on the bedroom floor].
This was my first book by Leonie Mack but I doubt it will be the last!
October 20, 2024
��Lovely, country fall vibes in Friuli🍂🍃
3.5🌟stars
The setting in this romance was glorious and I loved the author's descriptions of the people and landscapes of the Friuli countryside in the extreme northeast of Italy. Agricultural abundance, both wild and cultivated, and chilly vistas, it made me want to go there, wrapped up in a cozy blanket by the fire and sip the oil of newly-harvested olives and savor freshly picked and roasted chestnuts. Really a great touch.
Jules, the Australian female lead, was a great character. She's resilient, ready to go the extra mile to get a job done and fit in, even when it means endangering herself to rescue a pet! She's had hard knocks and is down to her last financial resources, but she is a positive personality ready to work hard and take chances for joy, love and life. And secondary characters like Berengario added some whimsy and humor as they got involved in Alex's stalled life.
Alex, the Italian widower ML I found a bit off-putting, with his home in limbo and disarray and his stubborn attitude toward taking any emotional risks. My perception of him and the romance was probably influenced by the third person narrative which I find builds distance between me and the characters.
Overall, the romance had a very slow build despite their initial encounter and I only got really emotionally stuck into their relationship when the threat of separation loomed large and immediate.
I also would have liked a bit more detail filled in regarding the two leads' backstories. Alex's marriage and dead wife Laura are but nebulous shadows and Jules' years in Parma with Luca a sad footnote very sketchily alluded to.
All points weighed, I don't regret reading In Italy for Love but found it a bit slow going and the male lead could have been more appealing emotionally.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
3.5🌟stars
The setting in this romance was glorious and I loved the author's descriptions of the people and landscapes of the Friuli countryside in the extreme northeast of Italy. Agricultural abundance, both wild and cultivated, and chilly vistas, it made me want to go there, wrapped up in a cozy blanket by the fire and sip the oil of newly-harvested olives and savor freshly picked and roasted chestnuts. Really a great touch.
Jules, the Australian female lead, was a great character. She's resilient, ready to go the extra mile to get a job done and fit in, even when it means endangering herself to rescue a pet! She's had hard knocks and is down to her last financial resources, but she is a positive personality ready to work hard and take chances for joy, love and life. And secondary characters like Berengario added some whimsy and humor as they got involved in Alex's stalled life.
Alex, the Italian widower ML I found a bit off-putting, with his home in limbo and disarray and his stubborn attitude toward taking any emotional risks. My perception of him and the romance was probably influenced by the third person narrative which I find builds distance between me and the characters.
Overall, the romance had a very slow build despite their initial encounter and I only got really emotionally stuck into their relationship when the threat of separation loomed large and immediate.
I also would have liked a bit more detail filled in regarding the two leads' backstories. Alex's marriage and dead wife Laura are but nebulous shadows and Jules' years in Parma with Luca a sad footnote very sketchily alluded to.
All points weighed, I don't regret reading In Italy for Love but found it a bit slow going and the male lead could have been more appealing emotionally.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
October 6, 2024
(2.5 stars)
I blame Leonie Mack for introducing me to a little slice of Italy that I now feel the need to explore! The community, the food, the work ethic, the pride and the landscape of this area really come through strong in this story, creating a brilliant setting for a possible autumn romance.
“Wine is more than culture here. It’s life.”
“Trees welcomed the morning light in every shade from deep green to glowing orange and red. The only signs of human settlement were the occasional tiny hamlets of clay-roofed houses with thin ribbons of smoke emerging from the chimneys."
Imagine this. After being jilted by love and while waiting on your passport to fly home to Australia, you stumble across a man playing the accordion (not an instrument I often encounter in a romance, but I’m open to it). This man somehow rewrites your final days in Italy.
For me as a reader, this is a story of second chances. Alex and Jules are complex characters. They are fairly young, yet it feels like they have lived a lifetime. Unfortunately for me, it felt like this story was taking a lifetime, only picking up about halfway through the book. There is a lot of push and pull, as well as ups and downs, which mirrors my feelings about the book. For example, I loved the setting and the characters (the dog and the cat are possibly my favorites), but the pacing was too long and drawn out for me. It’s a beautiful story that I feel just needs edited a little more to quicken the pace.
Thank you to Boldwood Books for this gifted copy via NetGalley. These opinions are entirely my own. If you are drawn to a book with a complicated love story that takes place in the gorgeous Italian countryside, then pour yourself a glass of vino and enjoy Leonie Mack’s latest, In Italy for Love.
I blame Leonie Mack for introducing me to a little slice of Italy that I now feel the need to explore! The community, the food, the work ethic, the pride and the landscape of this area really come through strong in this story, creating a brilliant setting for a possible autumn romance.
“Wine is more than culture here. It’s life.”
“Trees welcomed the morning light in every shade from deep green to glowing orange and red. The only signs of human settlement were the occasional tiny hamlets of clay-roofed houses with thin ribbons of smoke emerging from the chimneys."
Imagine this. After being jilted by love and while waiting on your passport to fly home to Australia, you stumble across a man playing the accordion (not an instrument I often encounter in a romance, but I’m open to it). This man somehow rewrites your final days in Italy.
For me as a reader, this is a story of second chances. Alex and Jules are complex characters. They are fairly young, yet it feels like they have lived a lifetime. Unfortunately for me, it felt like this story was taking a lifetime, only picking up about halfway through the book. There is a lot of push and pull, as well as ups and downs, which mirrors my feelings about the book. For example, I loved the setting and the characters (the dog and the cat are possibly my favorites), but the pacing was too long and drawn out for me. It’s a beautiful story that I feel just needs edited a little more to quicken the pace.
Thank you to Boldwood Books for this gifted copy via NetGalley. These opinions are entirely my own. If you are drawn to a book with a complicated love story that takes place in the gorgeous Italian countryside, then pour yourself a glass of vino and enjoy Leonie Mack’s latest, In Italy for Love.
October 23, 2024
In Italy for Love by Leonie Mack
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Julia Volpe’s Italian dream has turned into a nightmare. Still living with her ex, Luca, a year after they’ve broken up, desperate to sell the dilapidated B&B that was meant to be their future, Jules knows she needs to leave. There are just two problems. Her passport has expired and she’s broke.
Not quite ready to ask her parents for help – at the ripe old age of twenty-seven – Jules decides to head as far away from Luca as she can to work on an olive farm until she has enough money to pay for her passport and a ticket back home.
Jules has sworn off love, but she hadn’t bargained on the beauty of Cividale del Friuli, the ancient Italian town on the banks of the gloriously blue Natisone river. As the community of farmers, neighbours and locals generously welcome her into their lives, Jules can feel her defences crumbling. But it’s when she meets Alex, broodingly handsome yet charmingly gallant, that Jules truly knows she’s in trouble. Because Alex has sworn off love too, and his reasons run deep enough for him to keep his word just as Jules is starting to reconsider her resistance to romance.
My Opinion
Leonie Mack has written a great tale that I managed to fit into one day as it was just so delightful. Jules needs to escape from a difficult situation but with hardly any money left she is limited on her options. She takes a job that comes with accommodation whilst she waits for her passport to arrive. Whilst the chemistry between Alex and Jules is obvious from the start, Leonie has also written a great supporting cast.
This was such a sweet read, and it will whisk you away to Italy with some great descriptions.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Julia Volpe’s Italian dream has turned into a nightmare. Still living with her ex, Luca, a year after they’ve broken up, desperate to sell the dilapidated B&B that was meant to be their future, Jules knows she needs to leave. There are just two problems. Her passport has expired and she’s broke.
Not quite ready to ask her parents for help – at the ripe old age of twenty-seven – Jules decides to head as far away from Luca as she can to work on an olive farm until she has enough money to pay for her passport and a ticket back home.
Jules has sworn off love, but she hadn’t bargained on the beauty of Cividale del Friuli, the ancient Italian town on the banks of the gloriously blue Natisone river. As the community of farmers, neighbours and locals generously welcome her into their lives, Jules can feel her defences crumbling. But it’s when she meets Alex, broodingly handsome yet charmingly gallant, that Jules truly knows she’s in trouble. Because Alex has sworn off love too, and his reasons run deep enough for him to keep his word just as Jules is starting to reconsider her resistance to romance.
My Opinion
Leonie Mack has written a great tale that I managed to fit into one day as it was just so delightful. Jules needs to escape from a difficult situation but with hardly any money left she is limited on her options. She takes a job that comes with accommodation whilst she waits for her passport to arrive. Whilst the chemistry between Alex and Jules is obvious from the start, Leonie has also written a great supporting cast.
This was such a sweet read, and it will whisk you away to Italy with some great descriptions.
Rating 4/5
October 25, 2024
“In Italy for Love” is a charming and heartfelt romance set against the picturesque backdrop of a small Italian town, Cividale. Jules Volpe, the protagonist, seeks solace and healing after a failed relationship with her egotistical ex, Luca. The story unfolds as she embarks on a journey to gain Italian citizenship while hiding away in a distant part of Italy, far from her old life with Luca.
The strength of this novel lies in its vivid depiction of the local culture, from the unique Fruilian dialect to the tightly knit community where everyone knows everyone else’s business. Jules finds herself swept into this world when she starts working on an olive farm, offering free labor while she waits for her paperwork to process. Along the way, she meets the brooding and grief-stricken Alex, leading to an undeniable connection that propels the romantic arc of the story.
Though it follows the well-trodden path of the “grumpy guy meets sweet girl” trope, the novel adds emotional layers, dealing with themes of grief, abuse, and the search for personal growth. Jules and Alex’s romance is sweet but complicated, rooted in mutual understanding of their past traumas, making their relationship feel authentic and compelling.
The setting of Cividale, with its quirky and endearing townspeople, adds a warm, community-centered vibe to the narrative, enriching the story beyond the romantic plotline. The secondary characters add charm and humor, and you’ll easily fall for the town and its people as much as for the central love story.
I’d give “In Italy for Love” a solid 4 out of 5 stars. It’s a feel-good romance with depth, balancing heartache and hope, while transporting readers to the stunning Italian countryside. The story is engaging, and the character development makes it a delightful, easy read.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
The strength of this novel lies in its vivid depiction of the local culture, from the unique Fruilian dialect to the tightly knit community where everyone knows everyone else’s business. Jules finds herself swept into this world when she starts working on an olive farm, offering free labor while she waits for her paperwork to process. Along the way, she meets the brooding and grief-stricken Alex, leading to an undeniable connection that propels the romantic arc of the story.
Though it follows the well-trodden path of the “grumpy guy meets sweet girl” trope, the novel adds emotional layers, dealing with themes of grief, abuse, and the search for personal growth. Jules and Alex’s romance is sweet but complicated, rooted in mutual understanding of their past traumas, making their relationship feel authentic and compelling.
The setting of Cividale, with its quirky and endearing townspeople, adds a warm, community-centered vibe to the narrative, enriching the story beyond the romantic plotline. The secondary characters add charm and humor, and you’ll easily fall for the town and its people as much as for the central love story.
I’d give “In Italy for Love” a solid 4 out of 5 stars. It’s a feel-good romance with depth, balancing heartache and hope, while transporting readers to the stunning Italian countryside. The story is engaging, and the character development makes it a delightful, easy read.
I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review.
October 25, 2024
The best thing about Leonie Mack’s romance stories are the way she takes you to little known corners of foreign lands and immerses you fully in the sights and sounds of the place, and In Italy For Love is no exception, in fact, it might be my favourite one yet, although I am sure I say that every time I review one of her books!
It is really obvious when you read her writing that so much research goes in to her work, to the point where she has fallen in love with whatever destination she is writing about and this enthusiasm leaps of the page and pulls in the reader completely. I defy you to read this book and not be googling this area of north-east Italy, wondering how soon you can get there for a trip of your own. Once you have read about the beautiful medieval city, the stunning scenery, the quaint customs and the friendly people, you will be dying to experience it all for yourself. And, if you can’t, reading this book is the next best thing.
If you are looking for more than armchair travel in your novel, maybe a touch of romance, well, this book has that in spades too. This is a gorgeous, emotional, complex love story with two troubled people finding each other and learning to trust and love again. The main characters are both wonderfully written, tender and insightful and so moving. Despite this looking like a light romance – and it does have lightness – the story really touched me deeply and I found myself with a tear in my eye at more than one point in the story. This author’s writing gets better and better and she really manages to plumb the emotional depths with real empathy and compassion, without being preachy or maudlin. The book manages to tread the find line between a light romantic story and a truthful relationship perfectly.
Everything you could possibly want in this type of book, it is absolutely wonderful – I loved it.
It is really obvious when you read her writing that so much research goes in to her work, to the point where she has fallen in love with whatever destination she is writing about and this enthusiasm leaps of the page and pulls in the reader completely. I defy you to read this book and not be googling this area of north-east Italy, wondering how soon you can get there for a trip of your own. Once you have read about the beautiful medieval city, the stunning scenery, the quaint customs and the friendly people, you will be dying to experience it all for yourself. And, if you can’t, reading this book is the next best thing.
If you are looking for more than armchair travel in your novel, maybe a touch of romance, well, this book has that in spades too. This is a gorgeous, emotional, complex love story with two troubled people finding each other and learning to trust and love again. The main characters are both wonderfully written, tender and insightful and so moving. Despite this looking like a light romance – and it does have lightness – the story really touched me deeply and I found myself with a tear in my eye at more than one point in the story. This author’s writing gets better and better and she really manages to plumb the emotional depths with real empathy and compassion, without being preachy or maudlin. The book manages to tread the find line between a light romantic story and a truthful relationship perfectly.
Everything you could possibly want in this type of book, it is absolutely wonderful – I loved it.
September 25, 2024
The perfect autumn read! Get ready for gorgeous fall Italian settings and a beautiful love story of two people who swore they’d given up on it.
Jules moved to Italy for her ex-boyfriend, but now can’t get away from him fast enough and get back to her native Australia. But she’s stuck in Italy for a few more weeks with a dwindling bank account until her passport is in order. So what’s a girl to do but go to the farthest reaches of Italy and work on a farm in exchange for room and board.
And what does she find but one of the most beautiful places she never knew about, and one of the hottest—and most brooding—men she’s ever seen. But Jules is in no place for a relationship and neither is Alex. As if that’ll stop chemistry and so many feelings. . . . I don’t want to give too much away—just read it!
There are so many things to love about this book, but top among them are the stunning descriptions of the countryside, the village, the farm, the people, the feelings, EVERYTHING. I didn’t know this part of Italy existed, and now I’m dying to go to Cividale, eat Fruilian food, see the gorgeous Natisone River, do some hiking, and experience this place.
And if you’re a dog lover, you’ll adore Jules’ dog, who’s the star of the adorable meet-cute and a fixture throughout the book.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are mine.
Rating: 5
Steam: Low
Themes and Tropes: Proximity, Roommates to Lovers, One Night Stand, Beautiful Setting, Damaged MCs, Meddling but loving family
Pair With: Wine from the Friuli-Venezia Giulia Region
Jules moved to Italy for her ex-boyfriend, but now can’t get away from him fast enough and get back to her native Australia. But she’s stuck in Italy for a few more weeks with a dwindling bank account until her passport is in order. So what’s a girl to do but go to the farthest reaches of Italy and work on a farm in exchange for room and board.
And what does she find but one of the most beautiful places she never knew about, and one of the hottest—and most brooding—men she’s ever seen. But Jules is in no place for a relationship and neither is Alex. As if that’ll stop chemistry and so many feelings. . . . I don’t want to give too much away—just read it!
There are so many things to love about this book, but top among them are the stunning descriptions of the countryside, the village, the farm, the people, the feelings, EVERYTHING. I didn’t know this part of Italy existed, and now I’m dying to go to Cividale, eat Fruilian food, see the gorgeous Natisone River, do some hiking, and experience this place.
And if you’re a dog lover, you’ll adore Jules’ dog, who’s the star of the adorable meet-cute and a fixture throughout the book.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the advance copy. All thoughts and opinions are mine.
Rating: 5
Steam: Low
Themes and Tropes: Proximity, Roommates to Lovers, One Night Stand, Beautiful Setting, Damaged MCs, Meddling but loving family
Pair With: Wine from the Friuli-Venezia Giulia Region
October 13, 2024
Ok, so I actually enjoyed this book a lot more than I thought I would - I mean, Italy already holds a special place in my heart so I was excited to read this when I saw that this book took place in Italy. The book definitely jumped in with a problem where Jules needed to get out of Luca’s place asap. She somehow finds herself in a town that's known to be the crossroads of Italy. The story progresses where she falls in love with the accordion player, Alex.
I really enjoyed reading the character development of Alex, and how he navigates the stages of grief while trying to understand his feelings for Jules. While reading this book, I felt so many emotions - tears when reading about what happened with Alex that changed his life forever to quips of laughter when his extended family tried to meddle in the connection of Jules and Alex. The found family in this book is heartwarming and really reminds me of what it feels like to be accepted by a community, and the actions of living in a small town somehow seems to be amplified with Italian culture. I thought the author did an amazing job of really trying to describe the town and the culture of the Furlans.
If you have ever desired to have that foreign love while traveling the world, then this is the book for you to read. Ofc it can be a bit delusional, but this book gives you the hope that finding international love isn’t a farfetched reality.
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an opportunity to read a copy of this e-arc.
I really enjoyed reading the character development of Alex, and how he navigates the stages of grief while trying to understand his feelings for Jules. While reading this book, I felt so many emotions - tears when reading about what happened with Alex that changed his life forever to quips of laughter when his extended family tried to meddle in the connection of Jules and Alex. The found family in this book is heartwarming and really reminds me of what it feels like to be accepted by a community, and the actions of living in a small town somehow seems to be amplified with Italian culture. I thought the author did an amazing job of really trying to describe the town and the culture of the Furlans.
If you have ever desired to have that foreign love while traveling the world, then this is the book for you to read. Ofc it can be a bit delusional, but this book gives you the hope that finding international love isn’t a farfetched reality.
Thank you NetGalley for providing me with an opportunity to read a copy of this e-arc.
January 16, 2025
First, thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for providing an arc of the book. This book was released on October 22nd 2024.
In Italy for Love by Leonie Mack tells the story of Julia, an Australian woman who escapes her failed relationship in Italy by seeking refuge in a small, picturesque village. There, she finds unexpected solace and a renewed sense of purpose while working on an olive farm. Her initial plan to simply wait for her passport and return home is derailed by the charming and enigmatic Alex, a local musician who is hesitant to embrace love after his own past heartbreak.
The novel beautifully captures the essence of Italian life, with vivid descriptions of the stunning scenery, the vibrant local community, and the delicious food. The author skillfully portrays the slow-burn romance between Julia and Alex, allowing their connection to develop organically as they navigate their shared pasts and their anxieties about the future. While the characters occasionally feel a bit overly cautious in their interactions, their genuine struggles and the heartwarming portrayal of their growing affection make them endearing to the reader.
In Italy for Love is a heartwarming and engaging read that will appeal to fans of romantic fiction. The charming setting, the well-developed characters, and the heartwarming story of second chances make it a delightful escape. While the plot may not be entirely groundbreaking, the author’s vivid descriptions and the authentic portrayal of Italian culture make this a truly enjoyable reading experience.
In Italy for Love by Leonie Mack tells the story of Julia, an Australian woman who escapes her failed relationship in Italy by seeking refuge in a small, picturesque village. There, she finds unexpected solace and a renewed sense of purpose while working on an olive farm. Her initial plan to simply wait for her passport and return home is derailed by the charming and enigmatic Alex, a local musician who is hesitant to embrace love after his own past heartbreak.
The novel beautifully captures the essence of Italian life, with vivid descriptions of the stunning scenery, the vibrant local community, and the delicious food. The author skillfully portrays the slow-burn romance between Julia and Alex, allowing their connection to develop organically as they navigate their shared pasts and their anxieties about the future. While the characters occasionally feel a bit overly cautious in their interactions, their genuine struggles and the heartwarming portrayal of their growing affection make them endearing to the reader.
In Italy for Love is a heartwarming and engaging read that will appeal to fans of romantic fiction. The charming setting, the well-developed characters, and the heartwarming story of second chances make it a delightful escape. While the plot may not be entirely groundbreaking, the author’s vivid descriptions and the authentic portrayal of Italian culture make this a truly enjoyable reading experience.
September 26, 2024
🔎 ARC Review Time!
In Italy For Love
@leoniejmack
@boldwoodbooksnl
@netgalley
Publication Date: October 22nd, 2024
My Rating:
🌟 4/5
👀Read if you like
Roommates to Lovers
Damaged MCs
Slow Burn
Still living with her ex, Luca, a year after they’ve broken up, desperate to sell the dilapidated B&B that was meant to be their future, Jules knows she needs to leave. There are just two problems. Her passport has expired and she’s broke.
Not quite ready to ask her parents for help – at the ripe old age of twenty-seven – Jules decides to head as far away from Luca as she can to work on an olive farm until she has enough money to pay for her passport and a ticket back home.
Jules has sworn off love, but she hadn’t bargained on the beauty of Cividale del Friuli, the ancient Italian town on the banks of the gloriously blue Natisone river. As the community of farmers, neighbours and locals generously welcome her into their lives, Jules can feel her defences crumbling. But it’s when she meets Alex, broodingly handsome yet charmingly gallant, that Jules truly knows she’s in trouble. Because Alex has sworn off love too, and his reasons run deep enough for him to keep his word just as Jules is starting to reconsider her resistance to romance.
🔎 My review
This was my first Leonie Mack book and I couldn't put it down. This is such a cute heartfelt book that follows Jules and Alex. I loved seeing how their story evolved especially since they have different pasts. Definitely a story that follows internal growth, family, and love. The last cherry on top are the adorable fur babies Arco and Attila. I highly recommend!!
Thank you @netgalley for the ARC
#books #bookreviews #bookstagrammer #bookworm #bookstagram #bookobsessed #romance #romancebooks #leoniemack #boldwoodbooks #InItalyforLove #NetGalley
In Italy For Love
@leoniejmack
@boldwoodbooksnl
@netgalley
Publication Date: October 22nd, 2024
My Rating:
🌟 4/5
👀Read if you like
Roommates to Lovers
Damaged MCs
Slow Burn
Still living with her ex, Luca, a year after they’ve broken up, desperate to sell the dilapidated B&B that was meant to be their future, Jules knows she needs to leave. There are just two problems. Her passport has expired and she’s broke.
Not quite ready to ask her parents for help – at the ripe old age of twenty-seven – Jules decides to head as far away from Luca as she can to work on an olive farm until she has enough money to pay for her passport and a ticket back home.
Jules has sworn off love, but she hadn’t bargained on the beauty of Cividale del Friuli, the ancient Italian town on the banks of the gloriously blue Natisone river. As the community of farmers, neighbours and locals generously welcome her into their lives, Jules can feel her defences crumbling. But it’s when she meets Alex, broodingly handsome yet charmingly gallant, that Jules truly knows she’s in trouble. Because Alex has sworn off love too, and his reasons run deep enough for him to keep his word just as Jules is starting to reconsider her resistance to romance.
🔎 My review
This was my first Leonie Mack book and I couldn't put it down. This is such a cute heartfelt book that follows Jules and Alex. I loved seeing how their story evolved especially since they have different pasts. Definitely a story that follows internal growth, family, and love. The last cherry on top are the adorable fur babies Arco and Attila. I highly recommend!!
Thank you @netgalley for the ARC
#books #bookreviews #bookstagrammer #bookworm #bookstagram #bookobsessed #romance #romancebooks #leoniemack #boldwoodbooks #InItalyforLove #NetGalley
Displaying 1 - 30 of 145 reviews