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To Rome, with Love
Escape to Italy this summer with this fabulously feel-good beach read!
A summer of second chances…
Just a week before her big day, Sarah returns home to find a note from her husband-to-be – the wedding’s off! So when her boss decides to send her on an epic cycling trip, from Venice to Rome, it seems like the perfect distraction…
Although she never expected the distraction to come in the form of her oh-so-handsome, but slightly serious, cycling companion, Miles. And with still 600 miles of beautiful scenery, mouthwatering food and delicious wine yet to cover, anything could happen!
A summer of second chances…
Just a week before her big day, Sarah returns home to find a note from her husband-to-be – the wedding’s off! So when her boss decides to send her on an epic cycling trip, from Venice to Rome, it seems like the perfect distraction…
Although she never expected the distraction to come in the form of her oh-so-handsome, but slightly serious, cycling companion, Miles. And with still 600 miles of beautiful scenery, mouthwatering food and delicious wine yet to cover, anything could happen!
204 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 17, 2017
262 people are currently reading
224 people want to read
About the author
T.A. Williams
46 books586 followersFirstly, my name isn't T A. It's Trevor. I write under the androgynous name T A Williams because 65% of books are read by women. In my first book, one of the (female) characters suggests the imbalance is due to the fact that men spend too much time getting drunk and watching football. I couldn't possibly comment. Ask my wife...
I've written all sorts: thrillers, historical novels, short stories and now I'm enjoying myself hugely Cozy Mysteries. I lived and worked in Italy for a number of years, married an Italian, and fell in love with the country. I set almost all my books in Italy and I hope that my love from the country shines through my work.
I‘ve lived all over Europe, but now I live in a little village in sleepy Devon, tucked away in south west England. I love the place. That’s why you’ll find leafy lanes and thatched cottages in most of my books. Oh, yes, and a black Labrador.
I've been writing since I was 14 and that is well over half a century ago. I'm now approaching 1 million books sold worldwide and I find it wonderful that people as far away as India and New Zealand are reading and enjoying my work. Thank you to everybody who reads my stuff.
I've written all sorts: thrillers, historical novels, short stories and now I'm enjoying myself hugely Cozy Mysteries. I lived and worked in Italy for a number of years, married an Italian, and fell in love with the country. I set almost all my books in Italy and I hope that my love from the country shines through my work.
I‘ve lived all over Europe, but now I live in a little village in sleepy Devon, tucked away in south west England. I love the place. That’s why you’ll find leafy lanes and thatched cottages in most of my books. Oh, yes, and a black Labrador.
I've been writing since I was 14 and that is well over half a century ago. I'm now approaching 1 million books sold worldwide and I find it wonderful that people as far away as India and New Zealand are reading and enjoying my work. Thank you to everybody who reads my stuff.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
February 13, 2017
Thank you to Netgalley, Harper Collins uk, and T A Williams for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review.
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance reader copy of this book.
You can find my review on both Goodreads and Amazon. On Goodreads from today under Karen Whittard and on Amazon under k.e.whittard from publication date.
Lovely chick lit, in the beautiful and stunning Rome. This is a little joy of a book. Yes granted predictable but still this book will take you out of the February slump. It has wonderful characters, mouth watering food, gorgeous descriptions of beautiful countries, laugh, romance and lots and lots to smile about.
When I first started reading this book. I felt really sorry for Sarah. She had met the love of her life, just had her hen party and is getting married to the man of her dreams. Everything is going perfectly. Everything that is until Sarah gets home and finds a letter on the countertops that shatters all her hopes and dreams.
But far from staying at home and letting herself get all down and depressed and feeling sorry for herself. Sarah has one week AL off work and then returns to life as normal. Her family try and put her off, try and tell her to have more time off. But Sarah doesn't want to sit and dwel on what could be. Instead she is determined to get on with her life. And so finds herself Monday morning taking the wedding cupcakes she brought her colleges at work finds herself in the basement crying her eyes out. But far from being perturbed Sarah brushes herself off and with head held high walks into the office. With catcalls and how did it go bouncing off her. Sarah quickly gives the cupcakes to her assistant and tells her what happened and sends her on her way to expel the bad news. When her assistant comes back into the office she tells her she doesn't want to hear another thing about the could have been wedding and meant to be happily ever afters.
It is then that her new boss comes into the office. Telling her that the lady who was in charge of the charity bike ride has had an accident and can no longer take part, and that the only other logical solution is for Sarah to lead the event and to make sure that it all goes swimmingly. Sarah at first wants to refuse but then thinks that this could actually be the perfect thing for her.
Could leading a bike ride to Rome be the thing that she needs to mend her broken heart?
This is an easy to read, feel good chicklit book. Loved it.
Happy reading everyone
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance reader copy of this book.
You can find my review on both Goodreads and Amazon. On Goodreads from today under Karen Whittard and on Amazon under k.e.whittard from publication date.
Lovely chick lit, in the beautiful and stunning Rome. This is a little joy of a book. Yes granted predictable but still this book will take you out of the February slump. It has wonderful characters, mouth watering food, gorgeous descriptions of beautiful countries, laugh, romance and lots and lots to smile about.
When I first started reading this book. I felt really sorry for Sarah. She had met the love of her life, just had her hen party and is getting married to the man of her dreams. Everything is going perfectly. Everything that is until Sarah gets home and finds a letter on the countertops that shatters all her hopes and dreams.
But far from staying at home and letting herself get all down and depressed and feeling sorry for herself. Sarah has one week AL off work and then returns to life as normal. Her family try and put her off, try and tell her to have more time off. But Sarah doesn't want to sit and dwel on what could be. Instead she is determined to get on with her life. And so finds herself Monday morning taking the wedding cupcakes she brought her colleges at work finds herself in the basement crying her eyes out. But far from being perturbed Sarah brushes herself off and with head held high walks into the office. With catcalls and how did it go bouncing off her. Sarah quickly gives the cupcakes to her assistant and tells her what happened and sends her on her way to expel the bad news. When her assistant comes back into the office she tells her she doesn't want to hear another thing about the could have been wedding and meant to be happily ever afters.
It is then that her new boss comes into the office. Telling her that the lady who was in charge of the charity bike ride has had an accident and can no longer take part, and that the only other logical solution is for Sarah to lead the event and to make sure that it all goes swimmingly. Sarah at first wants to refuse but then thinks that this could actually be the perfect thing for her.
Could leading a bike ride to Rome be the thing that she needs to mend her broken heart?
This is an easy to read, feel good chicklit book. Loved it.
Happy reading everyone
March 14, 2017
I'm biased and admit it - I love this author's books and this is certainly not an exception! It is a superbly crafted romance, packed with humour. It still takes the reader through the whole gamut of emotions on Sarah's journey from her husband-to-be's cowardly desertion the day before they were due to be wed, through the glorious Italian countryside cycling with others on a charity 600 mile journey to Rome and romance! The rollercoaster emotional journey is just as dramatic as the scenery they encounter whilst en route cycling.
There are a great bunch of characters participating in the journey and being visited en route. Sarah is in charge of ensuring all runs smoothly - having her boss to be on the ride only adds to the angst! With diverse personalities vying for attention, plenty of laugh out loud moments, beautiful scenery, delicious food and romance all wrapped up in this delightful story this is another winner for me.
As I've written before, I have no hesitation in highly recommending it to anyone who enjoys well written, enthralling novels with great character development and beautiful scenery all skilfully wrapped in a delightful #romcom packed with humour and unexpected detours! Mind you, I’d suggest giving any book by this fantastic author a read – I’ve loved every single one I’ve read by him so far and make a point of grabbing any new ones as they become available as I just know his humour and style of writing will keep me giggling and turning the pages! For other fans of Trevor, I'll also say there are two beautiful dogs making a guest appearance in this story, too :)
There are a great bunch of characters participating in the journey and being visited en route. Sarah is in charge of ensuring all runs smoothly - having her boss to be on the ride only adds to the angst! With diverse personalities vying for attention, plenty of laugh out loud moments, beautiful scenery, delicious food and romance all wrapped up in this delightful story this is another winner for me.
As I've written before, I have no hesitation in highly recommending it to anyone who enjoys well written, enthralling novels with great character development and beautiful scenery all skilfully wrapped in a delightful #romcom packed with humour and unexpected detours! Mind you, I’d suggest giving any book by this fantastic author a read – I’ve loved every single one I’ve read by him so far and make a point of grabbing any new ones as they become available as I just know his humour and style of writing will keep me giggling and turning the pages! For other fans of Trevor, I'll also say there are two beautiful dogs making a guest appearance in this story, too :)
February 7, 2017
Pure joy to read, this is without a doubt one of my favourite T. A Williams books of all time. It combines in the perfect ratio, a lot of the elements I love in a book in just one compact parcel. Let's see well there is Italy, a cycling holiday, mouth watering food, romance, chocolate labradors, and some really good characters, which combined make To Rome, With Love a winner in my eyes.
Sarah is the space of a couple of weeks goes from her wedding being called off a week before, by a note no less, to a week after when the wedding was going to be, in Italy leading a group of tourists on a Venice to Rome cycling trip. She has guided holidays in the past and speaks fluent Italian, and not only that is a keen cycler.
What could be good, or could turn out to be a disaster are her brand new bosses coming along on the trip too, brothers Miles and Paul hall, who are both gorgeous, but with quite different personalities.
The group of people on the trip thankfully are all really good cyclers and have a great mix of personalities, and nationalities. Sometimes on group holidays you will just have arguments galore but this group seemed to get on and were all really supportive of each other.
What brought this book alive though was the trip itself, with the descriptions of all the little towns and villages that Sarah and the group travel through and stop in on the way to Rome. I feel as though I know a lot more about that part of Italy now, and although I may have heard of some of the places featured, I had never known about others, but now have a good picture in my mind of them,.
Miles was brilliant at providing additional information at some of the places, such as the history, or restaurant recommendations. Just about everything eaten by the cast of this book on this trip sounded delicious, and left me really hungry. There was seafood in more coastal towns, to a menu of assorted pasta dishes in Ravenna.
If you are a fan of T.A. Williams you may by now have spotted that the majority of his books feature a chocolate labrador somewhere in them. Now obviously having a dog going along on an epic bike ride would not have been practical, instead there is a gorgeous pair of black labs featured, and they are very gentle and utterly adorable, and featured quite heavily while they were around!
Given this was a holiday, as well a a charity bike ride, it probably comes as no surprise that some new romantic attachments were formed between some of the characters, and they were all lovely to hear about. Nothing in huge details, but definitely some potential romances that may last past the end of the trip.
From Venice, to Rome, this is many kilometres of pure pleasure to read, travelling alongside Sarah and her group, with T.A Williams trademark easy to read writing style and just all around good summery feeling emanating from this book. However even this wonderful story couldn't change my mind about one thing....my preferred method personally of going from Venice to Rome, is still cruise ship, which is far more relaxing, and you can still get great scenery!
Thank you so much to Netgalley and HQ Digital for this copy of the book which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Sarah is the space of a couple of weeks goes from her wedding being called off a week before, by a note no less, to a week after when the wedding was going to be, in Italy leading a group of tourists on a Venice to Rome cycling trip. She has guided holidays in the past and speaks fluent Italian, and not only that is a keen cycler.
What could be good, or could turn out to be a disaster are her brand new bosses coming along on the trip too, brothers Miles and Paul hall, who are both gorgeous, but with quite different personalities.
The group of people on the trip thankfully are all really good cyclers and have a great mix of personalities, and nationalities. Sometimes on group holidays you will just have arguments galore but this group seemed to get on and were all really supportive of each other.
What brought this book alive though was the trip itself, with the descriptions of all the little towns and villages that Sarah and the group travel through and stop in on the way to Rome. I feel as though I know a lot more about that part of Italy now, and although I may have heard of some of the places featured, I had never known about others, but now have a good picture in my mind of them,.
Miles was brilliant at providing additional information at some of the places, such as the history, or restaurant recommendations. Just about everything eaten by the cast of this book on this trip sounded delicious, and left me really hungry. There was seafood in more coastal towns, to a menu of assorted pasta dishes in Ravenna.
If you are a fan of T.A. Williams you may by now have spotted that the majority of his books feature a chocolate labrador somewhere in them. Now obviously having a dog going along on an epic bike ride would not have been practical, instead there is a gorgeous pair of black labs featured, and they are very gentle and utterly adorable, and featured quite heavily while they were around!
Given this was a holiday, as well a a charity bike ride, it probably comes as no surprise that some new romantic attachments were formed between some of the characters, and they were all lovely to hear about. Nothing in huge details, but definitely some potential romances that may last past the end of the trip.
From Venice, to Rome, this is many kilometres of pure pleasure to read, travelling alongside Sarah and her group, with T.A Williams trademark easy to read writing style and just all around good summery feeling emanating from this book. However even this wonderful story couldn't change my mind about one thing....my preferred method personally of going from Venice to Rome, is still cruise ship, which is far more relaxing, and you can still get great scenery!
Thank you so much to Netgalley and HQ Digital for this copy of the book which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
March 15, 2017
Sarah returns home from her hen night to a letter from her Fiance James, saying the wedding is off and he has left. Picking herself up and throwing herself into work at the tourist company, her boss tells her she has to go on a work based charity cycling trip from Venice, to Rome. Her new bosses, brothers Paul and Miles also go along on the trip. Now im not one for cycling and never have been, but this works as we get to see another piece if heaven in Italy.
Again with the brilliant writing style and descriptions by T.A. Williams, its always a winner. Sarah is in charge of the group and we get to go through beautiful, stunning towns and villages and get to sample the delicious array of foods on offer. With scenery to die for, we are taken on a vast journey of Italian delights. I really loved the parts when Sarah would wonder off for a swim and come into contact with Miles on the rafts. As she lay back in the water with the sun beaming down, I was lost in those moments and felt I was there with them in beautiful surroundings. She realises her ex James, stopped her from doing many things and was controlling. You will have to read it yourself to see if Sarah finds love along the way. Once again, the story has some great charactors and overall its a fun read. I love all of T.A. Williams books and I am 100% Team Trevor.
Again with the brilliant writing style and descriptions by T.A. Williams, its always a winner. Sarah is in charge of the group and we get to go through beautiful, stunning towns and villages and get to sample the delicious array of foods on offer. With scenery to die for, we are taken on a vast journey of Italian delights. I really loved the parts when Sarah would wonder off for a swim and come into contact with Miles on the rafts. As she lay back in the water with the sun beaming down, I was lost in those moments and felt I was there with them in beautiful surroundings. She realises her ex James, stopped her from doing many things and was controlling. You will have to read it yourself to see if Sarah finds love along the way. Once again, the story has some great charactors and overall its a fun read. I love all of T.A. Williams books and I am 100% Team Trevor.
February 13, 2017
Heartwarming, winsome, and picturesque!
This is a delightful story that takes us on a ride through the beautiful Italian countryside from Venice to Rome complete with majestic scenery, intriguing history, and scrumptious food.
The characters are varied and entertaining with a great mix of those who are funny, compassionate and quirky and those who are broody, sexy, and serious.
The writing is clear, descriptive and fun. And the plot, although I did find it get a little bogged down with the continuous dwelling on the past, is an appealing, cathartic journey full of heartbreak, contemplation, reminiscence, humorous mishaps, romantic settings, and budding new love.
As always Williams' has written a novel with exquisite imagery that makes me yearn to travel and dream of winter's end when I can take my bike off the trainer and get back out on the road.
Thank you to NetGalley, especially HarperCollins UK - HQ Digital, for providing me with a copy in an exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at http://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
This is a delightful story that takes us on a ride through the beautiful Italian countryside from Venice to Rome complete with majestic scenery, intriguing history, and scrumptious food.
The characters are varied and entertaining with a great mix of those who are funny, compassionate and quirky and those who are broody, sexy, and serious.
The writing is clear, descriptive and fun. And the plot, although I did find it get a little bogged down with the continuous dwelling on the past, is an appealing, cathartic journey full of heartbreak, contemplation, reminiscence, humorous mishaps, romantic settings, and budding new love.
As always Williams' has written a novel with exquisite imagery that makes me yearn to travel and dream of winter's end when I can take my bike off the trainer and get back out on the road.
Thank you to NetGalley, especially HarperCollins UK - HQ Digital, for providing me with a copy in an exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at http://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
February 6, 2017
Sarah works for a travel company. After her fiancee calls off their wedding less than a week before the big day she is somewhat relieved when one of her colleagues breaks an ankle and Sarah is asked to lead a two-week, 1,000 kilometre cycling tour of 30 from Venice to Rome for Cancer Research. Just to add to the pressure Sarah finds out that the owner's two sons Paul and Miles (who are expected to take over the firm imminently) will also form part of the party.
This was a pleasant travel story as the party wend their way through picturesque Italy the reader is treated to sumptuous descriptions of the countryside and the food they eat at local restaurants each night. I certainly had an irresistible urge to eat pasta while I was reading this book, accompanied by a glass of red and followed by a strong Italian coffee.
Less successful for me was the romance. Even if James' rejection at the eleventh hour had opened Sarah's eyes to some of less attractive qualities I still find it hard to believe that she could get over him AND fall in love with another man within just two weeks. Especially when the nature of the trip meant that Sarah was responsible for looking after all of the group and making sure they were all OK. She physically didn't have time to spend more than 15 minutes with the guy each day and none of their interactions felt deep enough or passionate enough for Sarah to decide that she had developed a deep and lasting affection for him after just a few days or to declare that she was in love at the end of the two weeks. Also, TBH I felt that her love interest was a bit wet. Maybe he's more true to life than the heroes of romances but I just found him to be mealy-mouthed all of his staring off into the distance and walking away did nothing for me.
I think, for me, this would have worked better as a travel story where Sarah makes new friends and comes to realise that she had a lucky escape from James. Then maybe afterwards, when she got back to London, maybe the hero could have called her and asked her on a date.
Recommended if you love the Italian countryside and food, or like cycling, or enjoy a slow gentle romance.
I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
This was a pleasant travel story as the party wend their way through picturesque Italy the reader is treated to sumptuous descriptions of the countryside and the food they eat at local restaurants each night. I certainly had an irresistible urge to eat pasta while I was reading this book, accompanied by a glass of red and followed by a strong Italian coffee.
Less successful for me was the romance. Even if James' rejection at the eleventh hour had opened Sarah's eyes to some of less attractive qualities I still find it hard to believe that she could get over him AND fall in love with another man within just two weeks. Especially when the nature of the trip meant that Sarah was responsible for looking after all of the group and making sure they were all OK. She physically didn't have time to spend more than 15 minutes with the guy each day and none of their interactions felt deep enough or passionate enough for Sarah to decide that she had developed a deep and lasting affection for him after just a few days or to declare that she was in love at the end of the two weeks. Also, TBH I felt that her love interest was a bit wet. Maybe he's more true to life than the heroes of romances but I just found him to be mealy-mouthed all of his staring off into the distance and walking away did nothing for me.
I think, for me, this would have worked better as a travel story where Sarah makes new friends and comes to realise that she had a lucky escape from James. Then maybe afterwards, when she got back to London, maybe the hero could have called her and asked her on a date.
Recommended if you love the Italian countryside and food, or like cycling, or enjoy a slow gentle romance.
I received a free copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley in return for an honest review.
February 16, 2017
What a wonderful read. Sarah works for a travel company and changes are in the air. When her wedding is called off she finds herself agreeing to lead a charity cycle ride from Venice to Rome. Apart from the fact that I would hate the physical side to the cycling this sounds like a dream trip. The characters are all really interesting and you can imagine getting to know them better. Lots of little romances are sparked amongst the other travellers. Sarah finds her prospective new boss very attractive- but he seems to have barriers set high and she's wary of relationships.
I loved the descriptions of the countryside, the cycling, the characters, the towns they stopped in and even the ice cream parlours along the way. I can imagine the camaraderie amongst the cyclists. The exertion being rewarded by the spectacular views and the wonderful meals and events that are organised for them. If I could have hitched a lift in the minibus I think I'd have love the trip!
I always really enjoy TA Williams books and this was a wonderful read- ideal for a holiday, or curling up infront of the fire dreaming of the warmer weather!
I loved the descriptions of the countryside, the cycling, the characters, the towns they stopped in and even the ice cream parlours along the way. I can imagine the camaraderie amongst the cyclists. The exertion being rewarded by the spectacular views and the wonderful meals and events that are organised for them. If I could have hitched a lift in the minibus I think I'd have love the trip!
I always really enjoy TA Williams books and this was a wonderful read- ideal for a holiday, or curling up infront of the fire dreaming of the warmer weather!
June 29, 2020
This is my least favourite book by T.A. Williams. Unfortunately, the storyline didn't grab me and I felt there were some loose ends at the end.
However, that being said, I do recommended reading it. If you like cycling and picture yourself in the Italian countryside, eating Italian cuisine, then this book is for you. It’s an enjoyable, slow, gentle romance. As a biker, I could just picture myself on trip, in Europe, exploring the little villages and food!!
However, that being said, I do recommended reading it. If you like cycling and picture yourself in the Italian countryside, eating Italian cuisine, then this book is for you. It’s an enjoyable, slow, gentle romance. As a biker, I could just picture myself on trip, in Europe, exploring the little villages and food!!
March 18, 2017
When Sarah comes home after her hen night, she finds a letter instead of her soon-to-be husband. James, her fiancé, is calling off the wedding and has left the apartment. Sarah is devastated and can't believe that the man she's been with for seven years has coldly broken up with her via a letter. Sarah decides to go back to work immediately, but isn't ready to tell everybody what happened yet. When a coworker is not available to do a tour Sarah is the one who takes over. Instead of crying about the wedding that didn't happen Sarah finds herself on her way to Venice to do a group cycling tour. Will she be able to use this opportunity to get her emotions sorted out?
Sarah is so brave. She's been committed to her relationship with James one hundred percent. She even changed her job when James had problems with Sarah being away for tours. Sarah loves to cycle and always enjoyed being a tour leader. During all of those miles on the road she slowly learns that James leaving her might not have been so bad after all. Sarah is good at her job, she's a professional and knows what she's doing and now she can do what she wants again. She's responsible and I liked that a lot about her. I loved to read about how she manages to pull herself together and how she slowly opens herself up to love once more. I was rooting for her all the way till the end.
I'm not a cyclist by any means, but after reading To Rome, with Love I'm in awe of groups with people who cycle many miles. I admire the people who have the strength to travel from Venice to Rome on their bike. I loved reading about the surroundings and the descriptions of the food they eat on their way made my mouth water. I've always been fascinated by group dynamics, so I found it interesting to learn more about how strangers are bonding during their vacation. I have never been to Italy, but after reading this story I had to stop myself from booking plane tickets right away. T.A. Williams has written an easy, happy romantic story, which made me feel the warm Italian sun on my skin. I would definitely love to read more of his novels.
Sarah is so brave. She's been committed to her relationship with James one hundred percent. She even changed her job when James had problems with Sarah being away for tours. Sarah loves to cycle and always enjoyed being a tour leader. During all of those miles on the road she slowly learns that James leaving her might not have been so bad after all. Sarah is good at her job, she's a professional and knows what she's doing and now she can do what she wants again. She's responsible and I liked that a lot about her. I loved to read about how she manages to pull herself together and how she slowly opens herself up to love once more. I was rooting for her all the way till the end.
I'm not a cyclist by any means, but after reading To Rome, with Love I'm in awe of groups with people who cycle many miles. I admire the people who have the strength to travel from Venice to Rome on their bike. I loved reading about the surroundings and the descriptions of the food they eat on their way made my mouth water. I've always been fascinated by group dynamics, so I found it interesting to learn more about how strangers are bonding during their vacation. I have never been to Italy, but after reading this story I had to stop myself from booking plane tickets right away. T.A. Williams has written an easy, happy romantic story, which made me feel the warm Italian sun on my skin. I would definitely love to read more of his novels.
March 6, 2017
I am such a fan of this author, nothing he writes disappoints me, and this book was no different.
I know the kind of research he puts into his books so throughout the story I was picturing him on his bike riding through the amazing scenery he describes exceptionally well. The way he paints the picture has me almost seeing everything in my mind. The characterisation is spot on, he has captured the essence of all of them perfectly. The story itself flows so well. We have romance, disaster, and comedy all thrown in together to produce something which will have you dreaming about visiting all of the places the characters visit along the way.
Another great story from an author who never fails to amaze me. Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a copy.
I know the kind of research he puts into his books so throughout the story I was picturing him on his bike riding through the amazing scenery he describes exceptionally well. The way he paints the picture has me almost seeing everything in my mind. The characterisation is spot on, he has captured the essence of all of them perfectly. The story itself flows so well. We have romance, disaster, and comedy all thrown in together to produce something which will have you dreaming about visiting all of the places the characters visit along the way.
Another great story from an author who never fails to amaze me. Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for providing a copy.
February 17, 2017
Sarah is all ready to get married to the love of her life, the hen night has taken place and she is all set for the big day when she gets a note telling her it is off! Devastated she goes into work with head held high when her boss gives her a lifeline - the person leading the charity bike ride in Italy has dropped out and she is offered the job.
So instead of drowning her sorrows at home she is out in the beautiful Italian countryside on a bike and added to that her gorgeous bosses Miles and Paul have come along too.
This book is a great lighthearted read - the descriptions of the Italian countryside definitely makes you want to go there and although predictable the characters and atmosphere make this a lovely book as are all the books by this author
So instead of drowning her sorrows at home she is out in the beautiful Italian countryside on a bike and added to that her gorgeous bosses Miles and Paul have come along too.
This book is a great lighthearted read - the descriptions of the Italian countryside definitely makes you want to go there and although predictable the characters and atmosphere make this a lovely book as are all the books by this author
March 1, 2017
Sarah let herself into the apartment quietly as she figured James may have already went to bed. But instead she found a note from James calling off their wedding with only a week left before the wedding was suppose to happen. Sarah and James had known each other since college and had been living together for seven years now. The wedding had been James Idea yet he walked away. Sarah went right back to work she thought it might be better for her to be busy at her job but it wasn’t easy nor was the week before but Sarah got through it. Sarah had worked at Hall’s tours for nine years. Then her boss- Miles came to her office to tell her that Lynnie who was suppose to lead the charity cycle ride through Italy had broken her leg. Lynnie was Sarah’s friend and she had started about the same time Sarah had. Lynnie was a good tour leader. Sarah had been a tour leader for a couple of years. Then Miles told Sarah she would have to lead the tour as there wasn’t time to find someone else. But Miles also added he and his brother would be on the tour and would help in any way they could. Normally Sarah would have loved to do the tour as cycling was her favorite sport but also her hobby and Italy was one of her favorite countries. But she worried about having to smile all the time. Then Sarah found she was attracted to Miles but she really didn’t want anything to do with men for a while to let herself heal from what James had done to her. Yet when Miles touched her it did affect her. As Sarah thought about her relationship with James she realized it was a good thing James had called off the wedding as he could be selfish and a whiner and controlling. She had even given up doing tours as James whined about her being gone so much. Miles told Sarah he had been married to an Italian woman for eleven years and two years ago she had died from breast cancer. So Miles was unattainable for Sarah for more reasons than one his being her boss.
I liked this story. I felt sorry for Sarah the way James had walked out on her but when away from the situation was very happy she found it was a good thing he had broke things off. Then to call her what was he thinking that she wouldn’t go on with her life??? MEN … I felt like I was there with Sarah and Miles and the rest of the cyclists and the people they meant and came in contact with. I didn’t want to put this down it was a good read and I really liked it. I found it easy to read and i really liked the plot. I loved how Miles really tried to help Sarah any way he could as well as the other cyclists. I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this story and I recommend.
I liked this story. I felt sorry for Sarah the way James had walked out on her but when away from the situation was very happy she found it was a good thing he had broke things off. Then to call her what was he thinking that she wouldn’t go on with her life??? MEN … I felt like I was there with Sarah and Miles and the rest of the cyclists and the people they meant and came in contact with. I didn’t want to put this down it was a good read and I really liked it. I found it easy to read and i really liked the plot. I loved how Miles really tried to help Sarah any way he could as well as the other cyclists. I loved the characters and the ins and outs of this story and I recommend.
March 20, 2017
Sarah is what I would class as easily likeable whether that is due to the fact she is treated badly at the start is a strong possibility. Romance wise T.A. Williams has managed to create a wonderful balance of friendship and chemistry. Now I will admit it is a slow burner but I guess this makes things all the more realistic.
Italy was brought to life before my very eyes with the gorgeous descriptions of food and the stunning scenery. I was definitely craving pasta after reading this book! Even though I don't cycle myself (or do very much exercise other than walking) I really enjoyed this aspect of the story. It gave me an insight into a different way of traveling, I love sightseeing so I was intrigued as to how a cycle tour worked. There was a great bunch of characters and they all managed to have distinct differences and personalities. I have been on a couple of coach tours in America and you always find some interesting characters and this felt a slightly similar experience. Throwing a group of people who have never met into a close environment is always going to be interesting. It was a delight to see friendships formed and maybe even some blossoming romances. If I had to pick a favourite from one of the supporting characters it would be Glynis, as her confidence grows she makes a lovely addition to the story.
The easy going and light hearted nature of the book is a definite winner for me and I enjoyed getting to know all of the characters. I found some of them that likeable I would have been more than happy to read a book focusing on them as main characters.
I purposely left this book to be read on my way home from holiday as I knew it would cheer me up as I returned to England. As soon as my children fell asleep on the plane I finished this book in one go and I was completely right about how it would make me feel. Although after reading this book I now want to book a holiday to Italy, maybe next year!
Romance, travel and Italy a perfect combination!
Italy was brought to life before my very eyes with the gorgeous descriptions of food and the stunning scenery. I was definitely craving pasta after reading this book! Even though I don't cycle myself (or do very much exercise other than walking) I really enjoyed this aspect of the story. It gave me an insight into a different way of traveling, I love sightseeing so I was intrigued as to how a cycle tour worked. There was a great bunch of characters and they all managed to have distinct differences and personalities. I have been on a couple of coach tours in America and you always find some interesting characters and this felt a slightly similar experience. Throwing a group of people who have never met into a close environment is always going to be interesting. It was a delight to see friendships formed and maybe even some blossoming romances. If I had to pick a favourite from one of the supporting characters it would be Glynis, as her confidence grows she makes a lovely addition to the story.
The easy going and light hearted nature of the book is a definite winner for me and I enjoyed getting to know all of the characters. I found some of them that likeable I would have been more than happy to read a book focusing on them as main characters.
I purposely left this book to be read on my way home from holiday as I knew it would cheer me up as I returned to England. As soon as my children fell asleep on the plane I finished this book in one go and I was completely right about how it would make me feel. Although after reading this book I now want to book a holiday to Italy, maybe next year!
Romance, travel and Italy a perfect combination!
July 3, 2020
Here is a marvelous summer read for lovers of romance and travel. Olivia has gone to Italy to lead a 1000 km. charity bike ride only ten days after her fiancee dumped her a week before their wedding. As the all travel agent group of Brits, Americans, Welsh, French and Swedes rolls through Italy from Venice to Ferrara, Ravenna to Urbino, San Marino, Gubbio, Assissi, Orvieto, Viterbo and finally Rome, Olivia helps her less seasoned riders, rediscovers her zest for travel adventures and gets to know the new head of her company. Road accidents, lost riders and other incidents that Olivia handles well, convince her she is doing what she's meant to do. The information about cycling, the descriptions of the various towns and villages and the food, all sounded wonderful. Supporting characters like the clumsy but endearing Welsh girl, the enthusiastic Yanks and the companionable Swede add to the fun. By the time Olivia sees her charges off on their airplanes home and takes a taxi into Rome for the weekend, she knows she wants to mix her desk job at headquarters with leading tours and that she'd like her own happily ever after too.
March 10, 2017
Now as we all should know by now I am a huge fan of Trevor’s books, you can dip in and immediately be transported to an idyllic world. The writing flows and instinctively I feel as though I am enjoying Jackanory (for those of a certain age) it’s comforting and endearing, with luscious descriptions of food, vivid scenery, likeable characters and thankfully the inclusion of the faithful Labradors this time. All of Trevor’s trademarks that ensure a perfect story.
Sarah returns home to find a note from her fiance James .. the wedding is off! Well instead of mooching around heartbroken she finds herself suddenly thrown unexpectedly into a work challenge. She is used to leading groups of tourists on holidays but this time due to a previous participant having an injury she needs to actively take part in a charity cycle ride as part of the vacational tour. A ‘simple’ case of cycling from Venice to Rome!
To add to the potential nightmare her new bosses, brothers Paul and Miles are going along for the ride. What follows is a charming account of all the picturesque scenery en-route, the camaraderie of the group, a slight rumble of the natural kind resulting in an earthquake, plenty of delicious meals described in detail to make any readers mouth water. Some wonderful humour .. ‘take your pants off’ at the dinner table springs to mind!
Sarah strikes up an easy rapport with the brothers but is aware their father owns the travel company so she attempts to keep feelings on a professional level, especially after her recent break-up .. but will the journey and time spent together ignite any emotion or passion along the way?
Classic chick-lit, easy and fast to read, enjoy this book in one sitting if you have the time available and allow yourself to be transported to Italy, especially welcome if it’s a rainy day but will also be enjoyable poolside. If only real life was as quickly rectified, Sarah managed to recover from her broken heart speedily.
Thanks to Netgalley, HQ Digital, Karan Eleni and Trevor for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
Sarah returns home to find a note from her fiance James .. the wedding is off! Well instead of mooching around heartbroken she finds herself suddenly thrown unexpectedly into a work challenge. She is used to leading groups of tourists on holidays but this time due to a previous participant having an injury she needs to actively take part in a charity cycle ride as part of the vacational tour. A ‘simple’ case of cycling from Venice to Rome!
To add to the potential nightmare her new bosses, brothers Paul and Miles are going along for the ride. What follows is a charming account of all the picturesque scenery en-route, the camaraderie of the group, a slight rumble of the natural kind resulting in an earthquake, plenty of delicious meals described in detail to make any readers mouth water. Some wonderful humour .. ‘take your pants off’ at the dinner table springs to mind!
Sarah strikes up an easy rapport with the brothers but is aware their father owns the travel company so she attempts to keep feelings on a professional level, especially after her recent break-up .. but will the journey and time spent together ignite any emotion or passion along the way?
Classic chick-lit, easy and fast to read, enjoy this book in one sitting if you have the time available and allow yourself to be transported to Italy, especially welcome if it’s a rainy day but will also be enjoyable poolside. If only real life was as quickly rectified, Sarah managed to recover from her broken heart speedily.
Thanks to Netgalley, HQ Digital, Karan Eleni and Trevor for my copy which I read and reviewed voluntarily.
May 4, 2017
To Rome, with love has it all, amazing scenery, likeable characters plus food and destinations to die for. The scene setting was so compelling at times, I could practically feel the heat of the sun on my skin. This would make a perfect summer holiday read.
July 17, 2023
An amazing 2nd chance romance accompanied by a detailed description of a 1,000 kms bicycle trip from Venice to Rome not forgeting details of beautiful Italian menus. T.A. Williams' boks are always a true joy read.
February 26, 2017
Another delightful book by T.A. Williams! Review to come as part of the blog tour.
August 17, 2017
This book had many aspects I enjoy about T A Williams' books: A beautiful setting, likeable characters and of course a Labrador (in fact two!).
December 2, 2017
Nice story, but I felt more connection with the other people on tour, rather than the main characters.
June 23, 2018
Poorly written and often cringey, the saving grace of this bad romance novel for me was the idyllic Italian setting, especially as I partly read it whilst in Italy myself.
February 18, 2021
I enjoyed it, quite unusual and interesting reading, a fortnight cycling trip. A fairly good read with enough happening to keep me interested, but not too embarrassing as some are!
April 3, 2021
The author's usual well-written, enjoyable novel. My only complaint is that the relationship and the story seem very rushed at the end.
September 4, 2023
review
I enjoyed the book but I feel it should have been a lot longer so that you could get a good feel of the subject and what she was going to do.
I enjoyed the book but I feel it should have been a lot longer so that you could get a good feel of the subject and what she was going to do.
March 6, 2017
This was a really lovely story by T A Williams. The author not only gave us a wonderful romantic tale with a journey of emotional enlightenment but we were also treated to an epic cycle ride through Italy.
Sarah works for one of the top tourist companies in the country, she was due to get married very soon but her no-good fiancé decides to unceremoniously call off the wedding the week before. Sarah is devastated, as you can imagine, but life must go on and she has to step in and help host a charity bike ride through Italy. Sarah is a keen cyclist and with her job she has organised many events in the past so has no worries about this task. She is hoping the fortnight away from home and her broken heart she can reassess her future and make waves into healing some of the cracks in her personal life.
Sarah is joined on the trip by many other colleagues from the world of travel including Miles and Paul, sons of the owner of the travel company she works for. Sarah starts to build up a rapport with the gents but is wary of her actions in front of them as they are due to take over the running of the business soon and she wants to make a good impression and keep things on a professional level. However, the more she gets to know the older of the brothers, Miles, the more she is drawn to him. Miles is definitely the brains behind the business but holds a grudge against his brother and secretly has his own personal heartache. Will this journey surrounded by wonderful countryside with epic views and glorious food to tantalise your taste buds go some way to heal the hearts of two lost people?
I loved the mix of characters that went along on this charity cycle ride. I particularly liked Glynis’ story, a character that was initially misinterpreted but at the end you felt so much respect for this lady. I felt like the author, TA Williams, had done his research for this novel as there was so much detailed information about the scenic and historic sites along the journey. I also could feel that TA Williams enjoyed telling us this story and sharing his love for the country, it’s food, culture and history and also his love of cycling. I personally felt like the story ended abit abruptly and I wanted an epilogue but maybe I’m fussy and don’t like to say goodbye to the characters so soon. A lovely romance that takes you on a picturesque, life changing journey.
Sarah works for one of the top tourist companies in the country, she was due to get married very soon but her no-good fiancé decides to unceremoniously call off the wedding the week before. Sarah is devastated, as you can imagine, but life must go on and she has to step in and help host a charity bike ride through Italy. Sarah is a keen cyclist and with her job she has organised many events in the past so has no worries about this task. She is hoping the fortnight away from home and her broken heart she can reassess her future and make waves into healing some of the cracks in her personal life.
Sarah is joined on the trip by many other colleagues from the world of travel including Miles and Paul, sons of the owner of the travel company she works for. Sarah starts to build up a rapport with the gents but is wary of her actions in front of them as they are due to take over the running of the business soon and she wants to make a good impression and keep things on a professional level. However, the more she gets to know the older of the brothers, Miles, the more she is drawn to him. Miles is definitely the brains behind the business but holds a grudge against his brother and secretly has his own personal heartache. Will this journey surrounded by wonderful countryside with epic views and glorious food to tantalise your taste buds go some way to heal the hearts of two lost people?
I loved the mix of characters that went along on this charity cycle ride. I particularly liked Glynis’ story, a character that was initially misinterpreted but at the end you felt so much respect for this lady. I felt like the author, TA Williams, had done his research for this novel as there was so much detailed information about the scenic and historic sites along the journey. I also could feel that TA Williams enjoyed telling us this story and sharing his love for the country, it’s food, culture and history and also his love of cycling. I personally felt like the story ended abit abruptly and I wanted an epilogue but maybe I’m fussy and don’t like to say goodbye to the characters so soon. A lovely romance that takes you on a picturesque, life changing journey.
August 21, 2025
The definition of mid
March 5, 2021
No one writes romance in a great setting better than Mr. Williams. I am as always, a grateful reader.
February 17, 2017
What a fun book this is! Set in Italy, it follows the fortunes of the members of a charity bike ride - with particular emphasis on Miles & Sarah. It really does have everything - great characters, glorious scenery, which is well described and yummy food! Oh yes - and a dash of tension for the will they? won't they? romance!
I always enjoy Trevor's books - one of the authors I discovered after I got my kindle, and always look forward to his next one! Since he is a prolific writer, I never have to wait long. If you've never read any of his books, what are you waiting for??
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I always enjoy Trevor's books - one of the authors I discovered after I got my kindle, and always look forward to his next one! Since he is a prolific writer, I never have to wait long. If you've never read any of his books, what are you waiting for??
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 18, 2017
This was a good book i enjoyed it but it was just missing a bit of something for me Sarah just got over James a bit quick for me.This is a great read for a lazy weekend.
February 21, 2019
Well written and beautifully descriptive. The storyline didn't grab me but I think it's just a matter of liking different genres.
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