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Meet Me in Italy
A sun-soaked trip to the Amalfi Coast promises a fresh start—and reveals secrets never imagined in New York Times bestselling author Brenda Novak’s tender new novel.
In the wake of her debut novel’s breakout success—and a very painful public divorce—Charlotte Williams-Jackson has something to prove. With her second novel overdue, she’s scrambling to hold it together. But her focus is rocked when she discovers that her childhood wasn't as it seemed—and she has a tween half-sister who's been orphaned in Italy.
Alongside her best friend, Sloane, and Sloane’s charming brother, Julian, Charlotte ventures to the Amalfi Coast to meet her sister. She would never turn her back on family, especially since this girl doesn’t have anyone else, but between her looming deadline and her entire identity being flipped upside down, it’s a lot. Determined to rebuild her life, Charlotte must confront the relationships she’s held dear—and the loss of those she thought she had but didn't—forcing her to question everything she understood about herself and the bonds that shape a family.
In the wake of her debut novel’s breakout success—and a very painful public divorce—Charlotte Williams-Jackson has something to prove. With her second novel overdue, she’s scrambling to hold it together. But her focus is rocked when she discovers that her childhood wasn't as it seemed—and she has a tween half-sister who's been orphaned in Italy.
Alongside her best friend, Sloane, and Sloane’s charming brother, Julian, Charlotte ventures to the Amalfi Coast to meet her sister. She would never turn her back on family, especially since this girl doesn’t have anyone else, but between her looming deadline and her entire identity being flipped upside down, it’s a lot. Determined to rebuild her life, Charlotte must confront the relationships she’s held dear—and the loss of those she thought she had but didn't—forcing her to question everything she understood about herself and the bonds that shape a family.
400 pages, Paperback
Published April 7, 2026
455 people are currently reading
7708 people want to read
About the author
Brenda Novak
239 books7,090 followersIt was a shocking experience that jump-started Brenda Novak’s bestselling author career.
“I caught my day-care provider drugging my children with cough syrup and Tylenol to get them to sleep while I was away,” Brenda says. “It was then that I decided that I needed to do something from home.”
However, writing was the last profession she expected to undertake. In fact, Brenda swears she didn’t have a creative bone in her body. In school, math and science were her best subjects, and when it came time to pick a major in college, she chose business.
Abandoning her academic scholarship to Brigham Young University at the age of 20 in order to get married and start a family, Brenda dabbled in commercial real estate, then became a loan officer.
“When I first got the idea to become a novelist, it took me five years to teach myself the craft and finish my first book,” Brenda admits. “I learned how to write by reading what others have written. The best advice for any would-be author: read, read, read….”
Brenda sold her first book, and the rest is history. Now a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, she continues to publish two or three novels a year, in a variety of genres.
Brenda and her husband, Ted, live in Sacramento and are the proud parents of five children—three girls and two boys. Now that they are empty-nesters, she spends her free time babysitting her two grandchildren.
When she’s not with her family or writing, Brenda is usually raising money for diabetes research. To date, she's raised almost $2.6 million. Her youngest son, Thad, has diabetes, and Brenda is determined to help him and others like him. She also enjoys traveling, watching sporting events and biking--she rides an amazing 20 miles every day!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-...
“I caught my day-care provider drugging my children with cough syrup and Tylenol to get them to sleep while I was away,” Brenda says. “It was then that I decided that I needed to do something from home.”
However, writing was the last profession she expected to undertake. In fact, Brenda swears she didn’t have a creative bone in her body. In school, math and science were her best subjects, and when it came time to pick a major in college, she chose business.
Abandoning her academic scholarship to Brigham Young University at the age of 20 in order to get married and start a family, Brenda dabbled in commercial real estate, then became a loan officer.
“When I first got the idea to become a novelist, it took me five years to teach myself the craft and finish my first book,” Brenda admits. “I learned how to write by reading what others have written. The best advice for any would-be author: read, read, read….”
Brenda sold her first book, and the rest is history. Now a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author, she continues to publish two or three novels a year, in a variety of genres.
Brenda and her husband, Ted, live in Sacramento and are the proud parents of five children—three girls and two boys. Now that they are empty-nesters, she spends her free time babysitting her two grandchildren.
When she’s not with her family or writing, Brenda is usually raising money for diabetes research. To date, she's raised almost $2.6 million. Her youngest son, Thad, has diabetes, and Brenda is determined to help him and others like him. She also enjoys traveling, watching sporting events and biking--she rides an amazing 20 miles every day!
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Author-...
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April 9, 2026
Meet Me In Italy by Brenda Novak
Contemporary romance.
Charlotte Williams-Jackson is about to celebrate her fourth wedding anniversary when her husband tells her he wants a divorce. Shocked, she moves back to her parents’ house. Her world is upended again when she learns she’s adopted and has a recently orphaned half-sister in Italy. Charlotte needs to work on her next novel, but she can’t say no to family.
Reconnecting with best friend Sloane and her brother Julian, the three travel to the Amalfi Coast to spend a month relaxing and playing tourist while getting to know young Lilly. Charlotte hopes to get her novel at least started since her deadline is looming closer. They also all need to assess their future plans with family. All four have decisions to make.
🎧 The audiobook is narrated by Stina Nielsen who has created a marvelous performance for the various characters. There are distinct voices for the main characters and emotions are all clearly heard. The characters came alive for me while listening.
It’s an Emotional roller coaster of shock, worry, fear, hope, and love from the pages as the story progresses. My heart broke for the loss of health in two individuals but also swelled with satisfaction and adoration in the resolution.
More than one happily ever after here. It took work, self analysis and hard decisions.
And in the end, oh, so exquisite.
Contemporary romance.
Charlotte Williams-Jackson is about to celebrate her fourth wedding anniversary when her husband tells her he wants a divorce. Shocked, she moves back to her parents’ house. Her world is upended again when she learns she’s adopted and has a recently orphaned half-sister in Italy. Charlotte needs to work on her next novel, but she can’t say no to family.
Reconnecting with best friend Sloane and her brother Julian, the three travel to the Amalfi Coast to spend a month relaxing and playing tourist while getting to know young Lilly. Charlotte hopes to get her novel at least started since her deadline is looming closer. They also all need to assess their future plans with family. All four have decisions to make.
🎧 The audiobook is narrated by Stina Nielsen who has created a marvelous performance for the various characters. There are distinct voices for the main characters and emotions are all clearly heard. The characters came alive for me while listening.
It’s an Emotional roller coaster of shock, worry, fear, hope, and love from the pages as the story progresses. My heart broke for the loss of health in two individuals but also swelled with satisfaction and adoration in the resolution.
More than one happily ever after here. It took work, self analysis and hard decisions.
And in the end, oh, so exquisite.
April 8, 2026
5 stars. Brenda Novak returns with her best novel yet. “Meet Me in Italy” is a purely heartfelt, emotional journey of struggle, resilience, second chance, and the power of found family. This tale will literally transport you to the gorgeous atmospheric setting of the Amalfi Coast, where after experiencing heartbreak, Charlotte travels there to meet her half-sister, bringing along her two best friends.. all trying to figure out their lives.
The characters felt relatable, each having their own perspectives and challenges, and the writing superb. It literally grips you, pulls you right into the storyline - I loved this. Do recommend. ❥ Pub. 4/7/26
Thank you to the publisher via NetGalley for an advance copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
The characters felt relatable, each having their own perspectives and challenges, and the writing superb. It literally grips you, pulls you right into the storyline - I loved this. Do recommend. ❥ Pub. 4/7/26
Thank you to the publisher via NetGalley for an advance copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 10, 2026
I've read a few of Brenda Novak's Romantic-Suspense books and wasn't impressed by them. That was ten years ago. While trolling NetGalley I came across this beautiful cover and, yeah, I'm a sucker. Novak has a lot of Romance books to her credit and a Romance set on the Amalfi Coast? Should be fun. I really wanted fun and playful. Unfortunately, it wasn't, at least for me anyway. I'm just not into the "I Am Woman Hear Me Roar" meaningful Romance cadre. Female empowerment can be fun, but this just wasn't. It starts out a bummer and just got worse. But, Woman Power Prevails. The End.
At the beginning I see Charlotte as a kicked puppy wondering just what she did to deserve this treatment, I wanted to tell her: Don't get mad, get even. I also wanted to tell her: Revenge is a dish best served cold. I really wanted her to get her pound of flesh out of the douchenozzel Cliff. But Charlotte is not the vengeful type. Too bad. In the end she does absolutely triumph. But that is just the beginning to the body blows Charlotte takes.
My thanks to the Publisher, and Author, for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
At the beginning I see Charlotte as a kicked puppy wondering just what she did to deserve this treatment, I wanted to tell her: Don't get mad, get even. I also wanted to tell her: Revenge is a dish best served cold. I really wanted her to get her pound of flesh out of the douchenozzel Cliff. But Charlotte is not the vengeful type. Too bad. In the end she does absolutely triumph. But that is just the beginning to the body blows Charlotte takes.
My thanks to the Publisher, and Author, for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
March 19, 2026
What an amazing trip to Italy this story took me on! I fully immersed myself in the calm, beautiful setting of the Amalfi Coast and the delicious food the characters experienced on their emotional journey of personal growth in Meet Me in Italy. Sloane, Julian, and Charlotte share a deeply loyal, imperfect, wonderfully human friendship, I enjoyed their journey as they explored Italy and themselves, learning to let go and keep going, to trust themselves and others, to confront the things they have been avoiding, and sharing secrets in order to heal. Their journey felt real. And it was amazing! The characters are so likable and relatable (except for Sabrina). There were many complex layers to this story: redefining family, a no rush romance (friends to lovers), personal and family struggles, found family, divorce, grief, career challenges, forgiveness, self identity, the possibility of living the wrong version of your life and that sometimes stepping away is needed to help uncover resolutions and find happiness. I liked the multiple POV’s, which allowed us to feel the emotional and internal conflicts within each character and to see the positive changes within each character as the story progressed. Lilly is a joy to everyone, and the heart of the plot. A very cozy, heartwarming, deeply satisfying story!
April 21, 2026
As Charlotte stares down the looming deadline for her second novel, with not a single word written when her life implodes. Her marriage to Cliff Jackson, a famous basketball star, ends abruptly when he demands she move out with no explanation. She has no idea what went wrong. Then comes another shock: Charlotte learns she has a twelve year old half sister, Lilly, stranded in Italy after their mother is killed in a tragic accident. As Lilly’s closest relative, Charlotte is suddenly the only person who can step in.
Determined to meet her sister, escape the chaos of her divorce, and hopefully find inspiration for her book, Charlotte heads to Italy. Her estranged best friend Sloane and Sloane’s brother Julian join her, offering support she didn’t realize she needed, and sparking an unexpected connection with Julian.
Charlotte is carrying so much heartbreak and uncertainty, but Sloane and Julian have their own wounds and reasons for needing a getaway, and I found myself caring deeply for all three of them.
Meet Me in Italy was an engrossing, heartwarming story, that swept me away! For Charlotte, Sloane, Julian, and young Lilly, this trip becomes a journey of healing, rediscovery, and quiet transformation with a touch of romance woven in set in against the gorgeous Italian Coast.
I alternated between reading and listening to the audiobook, and Stina Nielsen’s narration was wonderful. She gave each character a distinct voice and emotional depth, bringing them vividly to life and enhancing my experience.
I voluntarily read/listened to a copy courtesy of the publishers. These are my thoughts and opinions.
Determined to meet her sister, escape the chaos of her divorce, and hopefully find inspiration for her book, Charlotte heads to Italy. Her estranged best friend Sloane and Sloane’s brother Julian join her, offering support she didn’t realize she needed, and sparking an unexpected connection with Julian.
Charlotte is carrying so much heartbreak and uncertainty, but Sloane and Julian have their own wounds and reasons for needing a getaway, and I found myself caring deeply for all three of them.
Meet Me in Italy was an engrossing, heartwarming story, that swept me away! For Charlotte, Sloane, Julian, and young Lilly, this trip becomes a journey of healing, rediscovery, and quiet transformation with a touch of romance woven in set in against the gorgeous Italian Coast.
I alternated between reading and listening to the audiobook, and Stina Nielsen’s narration was wonderful. She gave each character a distinct voice and emotional depth, bringing them vividly to life and enhancing my experience.
I voluntarily read/listened to a copy courtesy of the publishers. These are my thoughts and opinions.
March 2, 2026
I was able to read an arc of Brenda Novak’s new book coming out in April
What a great great story I don’t wanna give away any spoilers but grab the book. It is definitely a good read.
It’s very emotional learning things about your past that you never knew
Losing love, finding love becoming a better person because of all of it
What a great great story I don’t wanna give away any spoilers but grab the book. It is definitely a good read.
It’s very emotional learning things about your past that you never knew
Losing love, finding love becoming a better person because of all of it
March 11, 2026
Amidst a painful and public divorce, Charlotte is struggling to hold her life together as she juggles heartbreak and a quickly approaching deadline for her new book. However, things get even more complicated when she discovers she has a twelve-year-old half sister who is now orphaned in Italy. Charlotte heads to the Amalfi Coast with her two best friends to meet this sister she never knew about, and question what she’s known about herself and her family.
I really enjoyed this novel and the many layers to the story regarding relationships, family, and personal struggles. The characters are all multidimensional, well-developed, and relatable, and I liked seeing their different perspectives and the challenges they were facing. I absolutely loved the setting, and overall this was an enjoyable book I’d recommend!
Thank you to MIRA Books and NetGalley for my gifted e-ARC!
I really enjoyed this novel and the many layers to the story regarding relationships, family, and personal struggles. The characters are all multidimensional, well-developed, and relatable, and I liked seeing their different perspectives and the challenges they were facing. I absolutely loved the setting, and overall this was an enjoyable book I’d recommend!
Thank you to MIRA Books and NetGalley for my gifted e-ARC!
May 1, 2026
Sometimes you need a predictable but fun romance, and this just hit right during a stressful week. I was rooting for the MC, Charlotte, from the start of the book when her jerk of a husband asks for a divorce. The plot twist of finding that she was adopted and had a younger biological sister felt completely out of the blue and forced but I went with it. And so did Charlotte, all the way to Italy to meet pre-teen Lilly. Sloane and Sloanes brother Julian, who grew up with Charlotte, also come. The side plots of the three adults bonding with Lilly and Sloane’s marriage troubles were just as engaging as the blossoming romance with Charlotte and Julian. It’s nice when despite some characters bad decisions, the only person I wanted to punch was Charlotte’s ex-husband.
Overall, an easy and comfy read. Extra points for the setting in Italy!
Overall, an easy and comfy read. Extra points for the setting in Italy!
April 7, 2026
Some of the best tropes ever with forced proximity, best friends brother (twin brother!), Italian summers, unknown family, toxic ex, and so much more bundled together for your reading enjoyment.
I truly enjoyed the multiple POVs throughout the book from our FMC Charlotte, to her BFF Sloan, Sloan's twin Julian, and some additional supporting characters that also have their moments to shine.
This is a heartwarming story with devastating turns woven throughout. I cried at times and laughed out loud at others.
I truly enjoyed the multiple POVs throughout the book from our FMC Charlotte, to her BFF Sloan, Sloan's twin Julian, and some additional supporting characters that also have their moments to shine.
This is a heartwarming story with devastating turns woven throughout. I cried at times and laughed out loud at others.
April 21, 2026
“Meet Me in Italy” Brenda Novak
Pub Date: April 7, 2026
A Contemporary Romance, set in California in Orange County where I’m actually from so that was fun! Then off to the Almalfi Coast in Italy for a month. Charlotte, who was going through a high profile divorce from her NBA star husband and also on a deadline writing her second novel, found out she was adopted and has a half sister in Italy who is now literally orphaned. Her life has been turned upside down.
I have to say Author Brenda Novak has such a talent for character development, you knew who, when and why as the story envelopes into a novel faced with shocking news, devastating truths and a friends to lovers you won’t want to put down.
The detail in the Almalfi Coast made me feel like I was there and could picture the setting perfectly. Sounds dreamy! Charlotte set off on a month long trip to Italy with her best friend, Sloane and Sloane’s good-looking brother Julian who Charlotte has been friends with since high school. Now 29 they still have each other’s backs.
It’s a novel of heart-wrenching truths that is thrusting this family together. Charlotte is longing for the pieces of her life to be put together starting with her past and desperately wondering what the future will hold for her sweet 12 year old sister.
I highly recommend this novel if you love:
Second Chance at love *Self Discovery *Slow Burn Romance *Small Town Charm *Food *Wine *Culture Immersion *Cafes & Coastlines *Rediscovery
I loved it ! My heart is full @authorbrendanovak, thank you!
I received this eARC from @harlequintradepublishing @mirabooks @netgalley @htpbooks Thank You
April 27, 2026
Andiamo in Italia 🇮🇹
Thank you, Brenda Novak, for the #gifted copy of Meet Me in Italy {partner}
Genre: Fiction
Format: 🎧📖
Pub Date: 4.7.2026
Pages: 400
Star Rating: ☆☆☆.5
I was in the mood for a little adventure so I decided a book about friends traveling to Italy would be just what I needed!
I loved all the beautiful descriptions sprinkled throughout this book; you could tell that the author had really spent time in this beautiful place and had taken in every tiny detail. The food all sounded incredible, as did the drinks and all the fun outings the characters took along the way.
There is just a little bit of romance but the majority of the book is focusing on finding yourself and what truly makes you happy (no matter what everyone else thinks you should do). I really liked Charlotte’s character and thought Lily was a sweet edition as well.
Read if you enjoy:
👏🏼 Self-discovery
✈️ Travel
😍Beautiful descriptions
I recommend reading Meet Me in Italy if you’re looking for a little adventure this summer 💃🏽
______
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Thank you, Brenda Novak, for the #gifted copy of Meet Me in Italy {partner}
Genre: Fiction
Format: 🎧📖
Pub Date: 4.7.2026
Pages: 400
Star Rating: ☆☆☆.5
I was in the mood for a little adventure so I decided a book about friends traveling to Italy would be just what I needed!
I loved all the beautiful descriptions sprinkled throughout this book; you could tell that the author had really spent time in this beautiful place and had taken in every tiny detail. The food all sounded incredible, as did the drinks and all the fun outings the characters took along the way.
There is just a little bit of romance but the majority of the book is focusing on finding yourself and what truly makes you happy (no matter what everyone else thinks you should do). I really liked Charlotte’s character and thought Lily was a sweet edition as well.
Read if you enjoy:
👏🏼 Self-discovery
✈️ Travel
😍Beautiful descriptions
I recommend reading Meet Me in Italy if you’re looking for a little adventure this summer 💃🏽
______
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chaptersofc...
Follow me on Goodreads:https://www.goodreads.com/chaptersofc...
Follow me on StoryGraph:https://www.instagram.com/chaptersofc...
May 1, 2026
Mid level romance. Not bad, but predictable.
April 16, 2026
This was such a great book! I loved it from start to finish!
April 12, 2026
What a great read! I was pulled in right from the beginning. I was able to escape to the Amalfi Coast with Brenda Novak’s vivid descriptions. The characters, Charlotte, Sloane & Julian, each had a reason for heading to the Italian Coast for a month. Another wonderful read from Brenda Novak! This may be my favorite Brenda Novak book. Maybe there will be a sequel?
April 3, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley & Harlequin Trade Publishing | HarperCollins for the advanced copy — all opinions are my own.
A struggling author escapes to the Amalfi Coast in search of answers — only to uncover long-buried family secrets that challenge everything she thought she knew about love, identity & belonging.
This book was such a pleasant surprise! I absolutely adored the characters & the stunning Amalfi Coast setting — complete with vivid descriptions of Italian food & scenery that made it easy to get lost in the story ⛱️🍋🍕
What stood out most was the emotional depth. This book thoughtfully explores complex topics like divorce, career uncertainty, marriage struggles, adoption, illness, grief, etc. Such a layered, heartfelt story!
My only minor critique would be the pop culture references, which is more of a personal preference.
This was my first Brenda Novak book & it definitely won’t be my last! 🩷
A struggling author escapes to the Amalfi Coast in search of answers — only to uncover long-buried family secrets that challenge everything she thought she knew about love, identity & belonging.
This book was such a pleasant surprise! I absolutely adored the characters & the stunning Amalfi Coast setting — complete with vivid descriptions of Italian food & scenery that made it easy to get lost in the story ⛱️🍋🍕
What stood out most was the emotional depth. This book thoughtfully explores complex topics like divorce, career uncertainty, marriage struggles, adoption, illness, grief, etc. Such a layered, heartfelt story!
My only minor critique would be the pop culture references, which is more of a personal preference.
This was my first Brenda Novak book & it definitely won’t be my last! 🩷
April 13, 2026
✅Meet Me in Italy was a beautiful story about friendships, second chances, secrets and found family. The romance aspect was very endearing and heartfelt.
The setting is perfect….Amalfi Coast. I wanted to be there while reading the book.
All the characters in the story are facing major personal situations. The way each one approaches these challenges was engaging and intriguing.
If you are adding books to your summer tbr list….you should definitely add Meet Me in Italy. The perfect summer reading for sure!
The setting is perfect….Amalfi Coast. I wanted to be there while reading the book.
All the characters in the story are facing major personal situations. The way each one approaches these challenges was engaging and intriguing.
If you are adding books to your summer tbr list….you should definitely add Meet Me in Italy. The perfect summer reading for sure!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book has a lot going on, but somehow everything flows together flawlessly. Charlotte is having trouble trying to write another book after her first novel was a huge success and thinks her success directly correlates with her NBA husband. Her husband comes home one day and announces he wants a divorce and kicks her out of their house, but that's just the beginning. She finds out she has a half-sister, Lilly, in Italy. She decides to go there for a month, along with her best friend, Sloane, and BFFs brother, Julian.
Lilly has had a rough childhood, but is instantly likeable. I'm so glad the author portrayed her this way. Sloane and her brother Jules each have their own issues to address and that makes the friendship bond between them and Charlotte that much stronger.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and didn't want to put it down. This book manages to feel like a comforting hug after a long day despite all the drama and Charlotte's life being a hot mess. The descriptions of the scenery and food will make you want to book your next vacation in Italy.
Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an ARC of this book.
Lilly has had a rough childhood, but is instantly likeable. I'm so glad the author portrayed her this way. Sloane and her brother Jules each have their own issues to address and that makes the friendship bond between them and Charlotte that much stronger.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and didn't want to put it down. This book manages to feel like a comforting hug after a long day despite all the drama and Charlotte's life being a hot mess. The descriptions of the scenery and food will make you want to book your next vacation in Italy.
Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for an ARC of this book.
January 10, 2026
I really loved Meet Me in Italy by Brenda Novak. It’s the story of found family and just multiple relationships in general. Charlotte Williams-Jackson has just been dropped by her NBA player husband, so she moves back in with her parents in Orange County. She gets a letter which drops quite a bombshell into her life and causes her to have to spend the month in Italy on the Amalfi coast. She reconnects with some old friends, twins Julian & Sloane, who are both also facing challenges in their lives and offer to go to Italy with Charlotte to support her, and maybe get some clarity about their own struggles. Brenda’s writing is really great, as usual, and she is really good at 1. coming up with characters and situations that I want to see the outcome for/of and 2. making me want to go to Italy for all the lemon flavored croissants, gelato & drinks. Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins/Harlequin for an eproof to review.
February 9, 2026
The setting was wonderful! And author Brenda Novak sure knows how to write a story that grabs your attention from the first page and doesn’t let go til the last…and still you want more.
Charlotte’s marriage was imploding then she finds out she’s adopted and there’s a half sister who needs her help. There are definitely big changes happening in Charlotte’s life and the way she tackles each was so relatable. Along for the adventure and running from their own problems, are her best friend Sloane and her twin brother Julian. They meet Lily in Italy and whether they know it or not, it’s the beginning of an adventure that will change all of them. They each have big decisions to make and whatever paths they choose, their futures will surely be different than what they envision for themselves.
This title is scheduled for release on April 7, 2026.
Thank you Harlequin Trade Publishing, MIRA via NetGalley for this ARC.
Charlotte’s marriage was imploding then she finds out she’s adopted and there’s a half sister who needs her help. There are definitely big changes happening in Charlotte’s life and the way she tackles each was so relatable. Along for the adventure and running from their own problems, are her best friend Sloane and her twin brother Julian. They meet Lily in Italy and whether they know it or not, it’s the beginning of an adventure that will change all of them. They each have big decisions to make and whatever paths they choose, their futures will surely be different than what they envision for themselves.
This title is scheduled for release on April 7, 2026.
Thank you Harlequin Trade Publishing, MIRA via NetGalley for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was a beautiful book! I read The Summer That Changed Everything by Brenda Novak and loved it, so I knew I needed to give this book a chance.
Charlotte's husband, a famous NBA player, asks her for a divorce and requests that she move out of the house. When she finds out she has a half sister that lives in Italy that was recently orphaned after her mother's death, Charlotte decides to travel to Italy to meet her sister, Lilly. Charlotte's friends Sloane and Julian come to Italy with her.
I love how the book wasn't just told from Charlotte's POV. We also got to see sections of the book in the POV of Julian, Sloane, Ben (Sloane's husband), and Lilly. Because of this, we get to see the emotional and internal conflicts and battles occurring within these characters, which made this book so much better.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in return for an honest review.
Charlotte's husband, a famous NBA player, asks her for a divorce and requests that she move out of the house. When she finds out she has a half sister that lives in Italy that was recently orphaned after her mother's death, Charlotte decides to travel to Italy to meet her sister, Lilly. Charlotte's friends Sloane and Julian come to Italy with her.
I love how the book wasn't just told from Charlotte's POV. We also got to see sections of the book in the POV of Julian, Sloane, Ben (Sloane's husband), and Lilly. Because of this, we get to see the emotional and internal conflicts and battles occurring within these characters, which made this book so much better.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC in return for an honest review.
January 10, 2026
I received a copy of this book for free from HarperCollins for an honest review.
Meet Me in Italy is about Charlotte, a new Romance writer, who is dealing with an unexpected divorce and finding out that she has a younger sister. She was never told that she is adopted.
Charlotte’s story is enhanced by a few other storylines, those of her half sister, her best friend and her friend’s twin brother. These are cleverly and seamlessly woven together to create a story that flows. The beauty of Italy and the Amalfi Coast are the backdrop to this story. It makes you wish you were there while you are routing for the characters to find their HEA.
Meet Me in Italy is about Charlotte, a new Romance writer, who is dealing with an unexpected divorce and finding out that she has a younger sister. She was never told that she is adopted.
Charlotte’s story is enhanced by a few other storylines, those of her half sister, her best friend and her friend’s twin brother. These are cleverly and seamlessly woven together to create a story that flows. The beauty of Italy and the Amalfi Coast are the backdrop to this story. It makes you wish you were there while you are routing for the characters to find their HEA.
February 18, 2026
I really appreciate the ability to read an advance copy of any novel, with the caveat that my review is honest and real. In this case, I am extremely pleased to have been able to read Brenda Novak’s newest book, Meet Me in Italy. I thoroughly enjoyed the way Ms Novak worked with her characters, developing their personalities and letting us get to know them and watch them change as the story progressed.
It is indeed a pleasure to read her books and I think this has become one of my favorite books that she has written. Thank you!
It is indeed a pleasure to read her books and I think this has become one of my favorite books that she has written. Thank you!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you NetGalley and Harlequin Trade Publishing for the advanced readers copy of Meet Me in Italy in exchange for an honest review.
Meet Me in Italy by Brenda Novak is a beautifully written story about 4 different people's perspective who are all dealing with uncertainty in their lives, and yet still being there for each other. It's a story about friendship, love, forgiveness and second chances. Even when everything seems to be falling apart, taking a step away may be just the thing you need to live the life you were meant to. A truly heartwarming story.
Meet Me in Italy by Brenda Novak is a beautifully written story about 4 different people's perspective who are all dealing with uncertainty in their lives, and yet still being there for each other. It's a story about friendship, love, forgiveness and second chances. Even when everything seems to be falling apart, taking a step away may be just the thing you need to live the life you were meant to. A truly heartwarming story.
April 21, 2026
4/14/26 - 4/20/26
Meet Me in Italy by Brenda Novak
This was the April Brenda Novak Book of the Month Book Club read written by Brenda, herself! What can I say?!? I think she has topped herself if at all possible, this is an outstanding novel and I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline and complexities of each of the characters she wrote into the story! The heartache, the heartbreak, the shock factor, the camaraderie of friendships that last through thick and thin, even while at times they have to fade into the background due to unforeseen narcissistic persons that take over lives… our true friends are always there to pick up the pieces when it’s all said and down. But sometimes friends are unwilling to burn us with their own struggles and concerns, even when we say, it’s okay! I’ll be there for you to catch you if you fall. Brenda tells a poignant story of denial, hurt, untrust, and turns it into growth, loving, acceptance, trustworthy and forgiving. Such a beautiful storm in a very crippling sad society we are facing today. Uplifting and definitely award winning!
Meet Me in Italy by Brenda Novak
This was the April Brenda Novak Book of the Month Book Club read written by Brenda, herself! What can I say?!? I think she has topped herself if at all possible, this is an outstanding novel and I thoroughly enjoyed the storyline and complexities of each of the characters she wrote into the story! The heartache, the heartbreak, the shock factor, the camaraderie of friendships that last through thick and thin, even while at times they have to fade into the background due to unforeseen narcissistic persons that take over lives… our true friends are always there to pick up the pieces when it’s all said and down. But sometimes friends are unwilling to burn us with their own struggles and concerns, even when we say, it’s okay! I’ll be there for you to catch you if you fall. Brenda tells a poignant story of denial, hurt, untrust, and turns it into growth, loving, acceptance, trustworthy and forgiving. Such a beautiful storm in a very crippling sad society we are facing today. Uplifting and definitely award winning!
April 20, 2026
This one started out slow for me. I felt bad for Charlotte, it seemed she was married to a man child and was at the bad end of things. Her life sort of imploding. It didn't help what she learned about her sister and parents, yet that ended up being a good thing in the end.
Things picked up when Charlotte, along with her friends, Sloan and Jules ended up in Italy to deal with Charlotte's sister. The location was great! Almost another character in itself. All 4 of these people had issues, all of them managed to work through them, but it wasn't easy. They all learned so much. It wasn't easy and there were bumps along the way, but the ending had you smiling. It was great to see how happy everyone was.
Things picked up when Charlotte, along with her friends, Sloan and Jules ended up in Italy to deal with Charlotte's sister. The location was great! Almost another character in itself. All 4 of these people had issues, all of them managed to work through them, but it wasn't easy. They all learned so much. It wasn't easy and there were bumps along the way, but the ending had you smiling. It was great to see how happy everyone was.
April 29, 2026
This book was like taking a month long vacation on the Amalfi Coast of Italy, like our main characters! Charlotte Williams-Jackson is going through a painful, public divorce. Her second novel is overdue and she finds out that she was adopted and her birth mother has left behind a twelve year old half-sister in Italy. Along with her best friend, Sloane and Sloane's very charming twin brother, Julian; they all rent a beautiful villa for a month to meet Lilly who has no one else in her life to take her in. Everyone has a lot on their plates and decisions to make. A fun, fast beach read for the end of a blustery April!
April 7, 2026
If you're looking for your new beach read. look no further. This is set in Italy (obviously, thus the title) and the location almost plays a character! There lots of yummy food and romance all in such a gorgeous setting and lots of family drama as well. What else could you want?
Charlotte is shocked when her very famous basketball star husband asks for a divorce one day. She doesnt see it coming. At the same time, she is trying to write her second book while dealing with the public scrutiny of the divorce Soon she finds out she has a 12 year old half sister she knew nothing about who's been orphaned in Italy and she decides to go to the Amalf coast and meet her and escape the press and work on her book all at the same time. Her best friend needs an escape from her life so her and her twin brother, who's always been their third wheet join her on her trip
All of the characters are dealing with big life issues and they all faced them head on. There was no childish behavior which was refreshing. It's a great story about found family, second chances and finding yourself when you have to start over
Thanks lo MIRA Books and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review
Charlotte is shocked when her very famous basketball star husband asks for a divorce one day. She doesnt see it coming. At the same time, she is trying to write her second book while dealing with the public scrutiny of the divorce Soon she finds out she has a 12 year old half sister she knew nothing about who's been orphaned in Italy and she decides to go to the Amalf coast and meet her and escape the press and work on her book all at the same time. Her best friend needs an escape from her life so her and her twin brother, who's always been their third wheet join her on her trip
All of the characters are dealing with big life issues and they all faced them head on. There was no childish behavior which was refreshing. It's a great story about found family, second chances and finding yourself when you have to start over
Thanks lo MIRA Books and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review
April 27, 2026
Brenda Novak books are a great way to remind you that life gets messy and made family always wins!
I loved how much Char overcame throughout this book. I will be honest, I laughed, cried and experienced every emotion in between.
This book was very relatable for me and it may be my new favorite book!
I loved the inclusion of art, history, and traveling too!
I must say with Novaks books that there is always family trauma and drama but love truly does concur all!!!!
I loved how much Char overcame throughout this book. I will be honest, I laughed, cried and experienced every emotion in between.
This book was very relatable for me and it may be my new favorite book!
I loved the inclusion of art, history, and traveling too!
I must say with Novaks books that there is always family trauma and drama but love truly does concur all!!!!
April 25, 2026
I LOVED this book! Definitely want to experience the beauty of the Amalfi coast in Italy, and loved all of the characters! I hope there will be a sequel in the future!
May 9, 2026
This book was a little long but I did read it all and liked it well enough. I feel like it was a 3.5.
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