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My Lemon Grove Summer
'Rich, warm and sunny. A story that stays with you long after the last page is turned' Milly Johnson
Could the lemon groves of Sicily be the perfect place to start over? The irresistible new novel from Jo Thomas, the author of Sunset Over the Cherry Orchard, will transport you to the island of mountains and sparkling blue seas.
When life hands you lemons ... is it ever too late for a second chance?
Zelda's impulsive nature has got her precisely nowhere up until now. A fresh start in a beautiful hilltop town in Sicily looking for new residents, together with her best friend Lennie, could be just what she needs. And who better to settle down with than the person who knows her best?
But the sun-filled skies and sparkling seas can't hide the shadow hanging over Citta d'Ora, which means not everyone is pleased to see their arrival. The dreams Zelda and her fellow new residents had of setting up a new life might be slipping away. But a friendship with restauranteur Luca could be about to unlock the possibilities that lie in the local lemon groves. And there's a wedding on the horizon that might be just what the town needs to turn it around...
Could a summer in Sicily help Zelda learn to trust her instinct and follow her heart?
Could the lemon groves of Sicily be the perfect place to start over? The irresistible new novel from Jo Thomas, the author of Sunset Over the Cherry Orchard, will transport you to the island of mountains and sparkling blue seas.
When life hands you lemons ... is it ever too late for a second chance?
Zelda's impulsive nature has got her precisely nowhere up until now. A fresh start in a beautiful hilltop town in Sicily looking for new residents, together with her best friend Lennie, could be just what she needs. And who better to settle down with than the person who knows her best?
But the sun-filled skies and sparkling seas can't hide the shadow hanging over Citta d'Ora, which means not everyone is pleased to see their arrival. The dreams Zelda and her fellow new residents had of setting up a new life might be slipping away. But a friendship with restauranteur Luca could be about to unlock the possibilities that lie in the local lemon groves. And there's a wedding on the horizon that might be just what the town needs to turn it around...
Could a summer in Sicily help Zelda learn to trust her instinct and follow her heart?
352 pages, Paperback
First published June 6, 2019
185 people are currently reading
1017 people want to read
About the author
Jo Thomas
60 books534 followershttps://www.facebook.com/pg/JoThomasA...
Hello, I’m Jo Thomas. I write romances about food, love, family and fun and believe every story should have a happy ending. Welcome to my world.
Hello, I’m Jo Thomas. I write romances about food, love, family and fun and believe every story should have a happy ending. Welcome to my world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 130 reviews
August 6, 2020
Every time I finish one of Jo Thomas‘ books I am thankful to know about her and her work.
I mean it. I am so thankful that I have stumbled across one of her books last year (Sunset Over the Cherry Orchard), because I know my life would be emptier without her stories.
I loved every single book by her (so far) and if you still haven’t read one of her novels, I highly suggest you to do yourself a favour and purchase (or borrow) something by her because trust me, you will be glad.
My Lemon Grove Summer is typical Thomas’ novel set in a beautiful place , filled with sunshine, tasty food and unforgettable people.
Now when I read almost all of her books, I can see why some people would say Jo Thomas’ stories seem to follow the similar formula, but I don’t mind it at all, because, as I already stated, I loved every single one of her books, and the feeling of familiarity makes me feel comfortable. I always get that positive feeling after finishing her stories, and My Lemon Grove Summer was no exception.
I really liked Zelda, our main character. She was really interesting to read about, and I admire her courage and persistence.
I liked how all the characters were in their late thirties or older, with mature perspective on life but at the same time they were fun and amusing.
I would like to read about them again, so I am hoping that My Lemon Grove Summer will get a sequel.
The setting was amazing, and it was the best part of the story (because the story centers around it). Beautiful Sicily, even in it’s neglected state still sounds so appealing and I would love to go there. I loved small town atmosphere and how bizarre but yet believable mental state of the residents was.
It reminded me of the state people who run my home town have and to be honest, it made me angry at some points. I hope one day they will also see the sense just like characters from this little novel have, but until then I can only hope (but that’s the whole another theme).
The story is written in first person, it follows Zelda’s POV, and it reads pretty quickly.
If you’re looking for a novel to relax with on a sunny day, My Lemon Grove Summer is the one! More then one smile while reading is guaranteed!
I mean it. I am so thankful that I have stumbled across one of her books last year (Sunset Over the Cherry Orchard), because I know my life would be emptier without her stories.
I loved every single book by her (so far) and if you still haven’t read one of her novels, I highly suggest you to do yourself a favour and purchase (or borrow) something by her because trust me, you will be glad.
My Lemon Grove Summer is typical Thomas’ novel set in a beautiful place , filled with sunshine, tasty food and unforgettable people.
Now when I read almost all of her books, I can see why some people would say Jo Thomas’ stories seem to follow the similar formula, but I don’t mind it at all, because, as I already stated, I loved every single one of her books, and the feeling of familiarity makes me feel comfortable. I always get that positive feeling after finishing her stories, and My Lemon Grove Summer was no exception.
I really liked Zelda, our main character. She was really interesting to read about, and I admire her courage and persistence.
I liked how all the characters were in their late thirties or older, with mature perspective on life but at the same time they were fun and amusing.
I would like to read about them again, so I am hoping that My Lemon Grove Summer will get a sequel.
The setting was amazing, and it was the best part of the story (because the story centers around it). Beautiful Sicily, even in it’s neglected state still sounds so appealing and I would love to go there. I loved small town atmosphere and how bizarre but yet believable mental state of the residents was.
It reminded me of the state people who run my home town have and to be honest, it made me angry at some points. I hope one day they will also see the sense just like characters from this little novel have, but until then I can only hope (but that’s the whole another theme).
The story is written in first person, it follows Zelda’s POV, and it reads pretty quickly.
If you’re looking for a novel to relax with on a sunny day, My Lemon Grove Summer is the one! More then one smile while reading is guaranteed!
October 23, 2019
Fun reading!!
November 13, 2021
Oh! My! God!
I absolutely LOVED this book! It took me right back to Italy (funnily enough the book arrived at my house as I was on holiday in that same country; and I finished the book as "Felicità" started playing, the timing and the shuffle was rather perfect).
The bad thing is, not only did it remind me of the beautiful little towns there but also of their amazing food and I was almost starving every time I put the book down (I guess the recipes at the end of the book - classic Jo Thomas - did not help; and I cannot wait to try them out).
Now onto the story in itself... It is quite a light novel: not too many characters, the plot is just perfect as there is enough suspense for you to be, basically, unable to put the book down but not too many overwhelming details and plots in the plot. I would say, it is the perfect book to read in a hammock under olive trees with a view of vineyards and lemon trees (or in your bed during a rainy day, because this book will bring you on holiday!).
Jo Thomas's writing style is also quite catchy. Usually, when I read a book it always takes me a good 50 to 100 pages to be used to the author's style and to actually be able to read the book quite fast. Well, this time, it took me maybe 10 pages, that's how much I enjoyed it.
I cannot wait to read Finding Love at the Christmas Market this winter.
I absolutely LOVED this book! It took me right back to Italy (funnily enough the book arrived at my house as I was on holiday in that same country; and I finished the book as "Felicità" started playing, the timing and the shuffle was rather perfect).
The bad thing is, not only did it remind me of the beautiful little towns there but also of their amazing food and I was almost starving every time I put the book down (I guess the recipes at the end of the book - classic Jo Thomas - did not help; and I cannot wait to try them out).
Now onto the story in itself... It is quite a light novel: not too many characters, the plot is just perfect as there is enough suspense for you to be, basically, unable to put the book down but not too many overwhelming details and plots in the plot. I would say, it is the perfect book to read in a hammock under olive trees with a view of vineyards and lemon trees (or in your bed during a rainy day, because this book will bring you on holiday!).
Jo Thomas's writing style is also quite catchy. Usually, when I read a book it always takes me a good 50 to 100 pages to be used to the author's style and to actually be able to read the book quite fast. Well, this time, it took me maybe 10 pages, that's how much I enjoyed it.
I cannot wait to read Finding Love at the Christmas Market this winter.
May 13, 2019
As seems to be the case with some of Jo's work for me, I had to suspend disbelief at times with the storyline however don't let that take away from a gem of a read!
Luscious descriptions of a clearly well-researched area and food had me literally salivating. I read this in the scorching hot sunshine which helped transport me right there with Zelda, Lennie and a real motley crew of characters - all of whom fit right into this novel.
Zelda and Lennie have been life-long best friends, approaching 40 years old Lennie suggests the pact made decades ago about getting married to each other if they were still single is made a reality and they jet off to Sicily to begin a new chapter. They agree to move to accommodation in the area in exchange for bringing some new life and potential business to the region. As expected things go wrong with this too good to be true offer but I won't spoil it further...
The friendship/relationship that Lennie and Zelda had was genuinely heart-warming, they were so supportive of each other and their new venture which helped ensure they made friends easily along the way. I loved the way they all settled into the Italian way of living as the story progressed.
I am still to find a story from Jo that I don't like, she is an auto-buy author for me and this was another sublime example of her talent!
My many thanks to Headline via NetGalley for providing me with this advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
Luscious descriptions of a clearly well-researched area and food had me literally salivating. I read this in the scorching hot sunshine which helped transport me right there with Zelda, Lennie and a real motley crew of characters - all of whom fit right into this novel.
Zelda and Lennie have been life-long best friends, approaching 40 years old Lennie suggests the pact made decades ago about getting married to each other if they were still single is made a reality and they jet off to Sicily to begin a new chapter. They agree to move to accommodation in the area in exchange for bringing some new life and potential business to the region. As expected things go wrong with this too good to be true offer but I won't spoil it further...
The friendship/relationship that Lennie and Zelda had was genuinely heart-warming, they were so supportive of each other and their new venture which helped ensure they made friends easily along the way. I loved the way they all settled into the Italian way of living as the story progressed.
I am still to find a story from Jo that I don't like, she is an auto-buy author for me and this was another sublime example of her talent!
My many thanks to Headline via NetGalley for providing me with this advanced reading copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 1, 2019
Simply Scintillating in Sicily!
I absolutely adored this book, from the first few pages, to the location, the story, the writing and just about all the characters.
What a fabulous premise, a group of strangers all needing a second chance in life enticed to relocate to a small village in Sicily as part of a revitalisation project. They even get paid for the privilege.
Sounds to good to be true, well it definitely isn't as easy as it sounds. It appears the locals aren't as welcoming as you would imagine.
Zelda and Lenny agreed as teenagers that they would marry age 40 if neither had found true love, and well it's clear they care for each other.
I loved getting to know all the people involved in this project, the variety of characters is fabulous and everyone is very believable.
What amazed me was how fast I read this book, just a few short hours while I was on some trains. I was so absorbed in the first 15% that I almost missed my stop.
Feel good summer reading at its best. Another complete an utter gem of a book from Jo Thomas. You won't regret this virtual trip to Sicily.
Infused with the warmth of a Sicilian summer, with helpings of fabulous sounding food, limoncello and a spattering of Italian phrases, this really is another amazing book that touched me in all the right places from one of my favourite authors.
Thank you to Netgalley and Headline for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I absolutely adored this book, from the first few pages, to the location, the story, the writing and just about all the characters.
What a fabulous premise, a group of strangers all needing a second chance in life enticed to relocate to a small village in Sicily as part of a revitalisation project. They even get paid for the privilege.
Sounds to good to be true, well it definitely isn't as easy as it sounds. It appears the locals aren't as welcoming as you would imagine.
Zelda and Lenny agreed as teenagers that they would marry age 40 if neither had found true love, and well it's clear they care for each other.
I loved getting to know all the people involved in this project, the variety of characters is fabulous and everyone is very believable.
What amazed me was how fast I read this book, just a few short hours while I was on some trains. I was so absorbed in the first 15% that I almost missed my stop.
Feel good summer reading at its best. Another complete an utter gem of a book from Jo Thomas. You won't regret this virtual trip to Sicily.
Infused with the warmth of a Sicilian summer, with helpings of fabulous sounding food, limoncello and a spattering of Italian phrases, this really is another amazing book that touched me in all the right places from one of my favourite authors.
Thank you to Netgalley and Headline for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
August 17, 2019
I’m a sucker for a book set in Italy and this didn’t disappoint! The first Jo Thomas book I’ve read and it won’t be the last.
Loved the friendship between Zelda and Lennie - we all want a best friend like him. The group of misfits that arrived to start a new life in Cotta d’Ora were very likeable and so different, each with their own reasons to start a new life amongst the lemon groves.
When life gives you lemons, you make limoncello! 🍋
Loved the friendship between Zelda and Lennie - we all want a best friend like him. The group of misfits that arrived to start a new life in Cotta d’Ora were very likeable and so different, each with their own reasons to start a new life amongst the lemon groves.
When life gives you lemons, you make limoncello! 🍋
July 15, 2023
A gentle summer read, set in Sicily, I could almost smell the lemons!
June 16, 2019
This is a wonderful summer read, especially perfect when you are trying to recreate summer in your head ! This perfectly recreates Sicily in your head, added to gorgeous characters, a wonderful story and such a delightful read. You don’t want to put this down, it’s a pleasure to read. A great heartwarming, feel good read.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion
July 18, 2019
Novel set on SICILY
As students, Zelda and her best friend Lennie formed a pact; that if they reached forty and hadn’t found their ideal partners, they would marry each other. Now that time is approaching and Zelda, sick of her dead-end job and of being ghosted by potential suitors, agrees to a fresh start with Lennie in a hilltop town in Sicily. Citta d’Ora is depopulating and the mayor has offered a resettlement package for couples that seems too good to be true. At first glance, the place seems to offer an idyllic future for the disenchanted Brits – the town is perched on the slopes of Mount Etna, surrounded by lemon groves sloping down to sparkling blue seas. However, it soon becomes clear that what the new arrivals expected cannot be delivered. The promised resettlement grant and houses seem to have vanished into thin air and it is quickly apparent that most of the residents of Citta d’Ora are far from pleased to see the new arrivals. To further complicate matters, Zelda and local restauranteur, Luca, form a meaningful friendship that makes Zelda begin to question her future with Lennie. But feisty and fearless Zelda isn’t about to let anyone snatch her dreams from her and she sets about sorting out the problems and finding a new use for the neglected lemon groves.
In her latest novel, Jo Thomas has certainly managed to convey a vivid picture of life in the glorious island of Sicily for the reader: Mount Etna is ever present in the background puffing gentle white clouds of steam into the sun-filled blue skies and sometimes, in more sinister mood, venting black ash. The scented lemon groves, filled with glorious wild flowers surround romantically crumbling villages, where the pace of life is gentle. As ever, in Jo Thomas’ books, food features large and this is no exception, for My Lemon Grove Summer is crammed with the tastes of Sicily, from succulent roasted herby porchetta to delicious lemon and pine nut pasta, washed down with a few glasses of the ubiquitous limoncello, making this novel a mouth-watering experience.
This is a novel for those who like wonderful locations and a fairly predictable romance. Some of the plotting does stretch credibility and there are quite some clichéd food metaphors. Yes, My Lemon Grove Summer does tend towards the saccharine, like the much featured limoncello drink itself; it does make for an enjoyable way to spend a few hours and the location alone makes it worth a read!
As students, Zelda and her best friend Lennie formed a pact; that if they reached forty and hadn’t found their ideal partners, they would marry each other. Now that time is approaching and Zelda, sick of her dead-end job and of being ghosted by potential suitors, agrees to a fresh start with Lennie in a hilltop town in Sicily. Citta d’Ora is depopulating and the mayor has offered a resettlement package for couples that seems too good to be true. At first glance, the place seems to offer an idyllic future for the disenchanted Brits – the town is perched on the slopes of Mount Etna, surrounded by lemon groves sloping down to sparkling blue seas. However, it soon becomes clear that what the new arrivals expected cannot be delivered. The promised resettlement grant and houses seem to have vanished into thin air and it is quickly apparent that most of the residents of Citta d’Ora are far from pleased to see the new arrivals. To further complicate matters, Zelda and local restauranteur, Luca, form a meaningful friendship that makes Zelda begin to question her future with Lennie. But feisty and fearless Zelda isn’t about to let anyone snatch her dreams from her and she sets about sorting out the problems and finding a new use for the neglected lemon groves.
In her latest novel, Jo Thomas has certainly managed to convey a vivid picture of life in the glorious island of Sicily for the reader: Mount Etna is ever present in the background puffing gentle white clouds of steam into the sun-filled blue skies and sometimes, in more sinister mood, venting black ash. The scented lemon groves, filled with glorious wild flowers surround romantically crumbling villages, where the pace of life is gentle. As ever, in Jo Thomas’ books, food features large and this is no exception, for My Lemon Grove Summer is crammed with the tastes of Sicily, from succulent roasted herby porchetta to delicious lemon and pine nut pasta, washed down with a few glasses of the ubiquitous limoncello, making this novel a mouth-watering experience.
This is a novel for those who like wonderful locations and a fairly predictable romance. Some of the plotting does stretch credibility and there are quite some clichéd food metaphors. Yes, My Lemon Grove Summer does tend towards the saccharine, like the much featured limoncello drink itself; it does make for an enjoyable way to spend a few hours and the location alone makes it worth a read!
July 18, 2019
If you are looking for a summer read that will male you smile, get you into the Summer grove so to speak, with wonderful descriptions and a happy feeling story, then this is the perfect one!
The story flows at a wonderful pace with intriguing. Characters from start to end, there are so many moments to make you smile along the way, and indeed I had several comments asking why I was sat smiling or chuckling to myself.
The descriptions are absolutely glorious and gave me a yearning to google and have a look at the places I was imagining, it sounds so beautiful and the Author clearly researched it, because WOW. Just how I imagined! Also, found myself seriously craving lemonade, and had to make a run to the shops to go and get some!! I have actually spent the day since finishing this trying to snag some recommendations for home mad lemonade recipes, I shall be giving it a go this weekend!
I love warm romantic stories, more so when there is a story immersed in family dynamics. I love seeing relationships forming, not just the romantic but general relationships like family and friends, how people learn to get on. Coming from a big family, I love to read books about them so this was perfect. The Author kept a wonderful balance between the happy and the realistic, not everybody got on, and those who didn’t negotiated this in wonderfully believable ways.
Whether you’re wanting a book to sink into on holiday, or aren’t going anywhere in particular, this story is PERFECT!! It makes you feel as though you’ve been abroad without moving away at all!!
Hugely recommend, and certainly an Author I will be returning to in the near future!
The story flows at a wonderful pace with intriguing. Characters from start to end, there are so many moments to make you smile along the way, and indeed I had several comments asking why I was sat smiling or chuckling to myself.
The descriptions are absolutely glorious and gave me a yearning to google and have a look at the places I was imagining, it sounds so beautiful and the Author clearly researched it, because WOW. Just how I imagined! Also, found myself seriously craving lemonade, and had to make a run to the shops to go and get some!! I have actually spent the day since finishing this trying to snag some recommendations for home mad lemonade recipes, I shall be giving it a go this weekend!
I love warm romantic stories, more so when there is a story immersed in family dynamics. I love seeing relationships forming, not just the romantic but general relationships like family and friends, how people learn to get on. Coming from a big family, I love to read books about them so this was perfect. The Author kept a wonderful balance between the happy and the realistic, not everybody got on, and those who didn’t negotiated this in wonderfully believable ways.
Whether you’re wanting a book to sink into on holiday, or aren’t going anywhere in particular, this story is PERFECT!! It makes you feel as though you’ve been abroad without moving away at all!!
Hugely recommend, and certainly an Author I will be returning to in the near future!
October 4, 2020
A nice, easy read. For me, I'm more of a third person past tense sort of person. The fact that this is first person present can't really be a reason I knock it, it's just not my preferred style. I think the adjectives were incredibly poor throughout, and there was an overuse of exclamation marks! Which put me off, weirdly.
The whole thing was quite predictable to be honest, apart from one plot twist which was a pleasant surprise so I appreciate that.
I think the whole narrative was dramatic where it didn't need to be, and in some places there was information that I felt was missing.
Having said all this, I couldn't put it down. If you are after something light and easy in between reads then I would recommend this.
The whole thing was quite predictable to be honest, apart from one plot twist which was a pleasant surprise so I appreciate that.
I think the whole narrative was dramatic where it didn't need to be, and in some places there was information that I felt was missing.
Having said all this, I couldn't put it down. If you are after something light and easy in between reads then I would recommend this.
July 11, 2019
A good summer read
3.5 stars - it's clear in the writing that the author has been to Sicily as it is described so vividly; I could almost smell the lemons! The only thing I struggled with was Zelda's internal monologue; it was often repetitive, but I did like the collection of characters and the premise of starting a new community in such an idyllic setting.
3.5 stars - it's clear in the writing that the author has been to Sicily as it is described so vividly; I could almost smell the lemons! The only thing I struggled with was Zelda's internal monologue; it was often repetitive, but I did like the collection of characters and the premise of starting a new community in such an idyllic setting.
January 14, 2021
So repetitive and was layering on its point every page.
July 19, 2025
Kolejna historia, w której główne skrzypce gra jakiś pakt z młodych lat. Zaczęłam ją czytać z nastawieniem, że będzie tak samo niewyróżniająca i schematyczna, jak wszystkie poprzednie. A tu proszę! Myliłam się! Jest jeszcze gorzej.
Autorka ma wyraźnie problem z konstruowaniem logicznej i sensownej fabuły. W jej książce wydarzenia mają miejsce z zupełnie absurdalnych powodów. Bohaterowie są znajomymi, zupełnie sobą niezainteresowanymi, ale mają udawać parę? Cyk, pakt z nastoletności, o którym pamiętają 20 lat później. Bohaterowie mają być we Włoszech i remontować dom, mimo, że im tam nie po drodze? Cyk, program zaludniania jakiejś opuszczonej wsi przy Etnie, będący samowolką i finansową i organizacyjną burmistrza. Bohaterowie mają wziąć ślub jak najszybciej, mimo, że wcale nie muszą? Cyk, legenda, że trzeba się ochajtać chociaż raz na 10 lat, bo inaczej wulkan wybuchnie (XD). Spoiler: i tak sobie wybucha w międzyczasie, jakimś pyłem sadzi, but ok.
Nie rozumiem też tego nacisku na trwanie w tym związku, mimo, że bohaterka ma kisiel w mózgu i w majtkach na widok lokalnego pizzermana, a jej przyszły-niedoszły mąż co chwilę zawiesza oko (i nie tylko) na włoskim Bobie Budowniczym. Na szczęście Zelda dostaje olśnienia na ślubie i stwierdza, że to jednak bez sensu. Gdyby nie to, to pewnie by i 5 dzieci spłodzili, wzdychając tęsknie do innych typów.
Na sam koniec chciałabym jeszcze podkreślić to, jak strasznie została opisana atrakcja głównego bohaterki do tego pana od pizzy. Wystarczy, że była z nim w jednym pokoju, aby trzeba było czytać całe monologi o tym, jakie ma silne ramiona, piękne oczy, świetne włosy i urzekające spojrzenie. Czytanie tego to jak odkrywanie kolejnych kręgów piekielnych.
NIE POLECAM
Autorka ma wyraźnie problem z konstruowaniem logicznej i sensownej fabuły. W jej książce wydarzenia mają miejsce z zupełnie absurdalnych powodów. Bohaterowie są znajomymi, zupełnie sobą niezainteresowanymi, ale mają udawać parę? Cyk, pakt z nastoletności, o którym pamiętają 20 lat później. Bohaterowie mają być we Włoszech i remontować dom, mimo, że im tam nie po drodze? Cyk, program zaludniania jakiejś opuszczonej wsi przy Etnie, będący samowolką i finansową i organizacyjną burmistrza. Bohaterowie mają wziąć ślub jak najszybciej, mimo, że wcale nie muszą? Cyk, legenda, że trzeba się ochajtać chociaż raz na 10 lat, bo inaczej wulkan wybuchnie (XD). Spoiler: i tak sobie wybucha w międzyczasie, jakimś pyłem sadzi, but ok.
Nie rozumiem też tego nacisku na trwanie w tym związku, mimo, że bohaterka ma kisiel w mózgu i w majtkach na widok lokalnego pizzermana, a jej przyszły-niedoszły mąż co chwilę zawiesza oko (i nie tylko) na włoskim Bobie Budowniczym. Na szczęście Zelda dostaje olśnienia na ślubie i stwierdza, że to jednak bez sensu. Gdyby nie to, to pewnie by i 5 dzieci spłodzili, wzdychając tęsknie do innych typów.
Na sam koniec chciałabym jeszcze podkreślić to, jak strasznie została opisana atrakcja głównego bohaterki do tego pana od pizzy. Wystarczy, że była z nim w jednym pokoju, aby trzeba było czytać całe monologi o tym, jakie ma silne ramiona, piękne oczy, świetne włosy i urzekające spojrzenie. Czytanie tego to jak odkrywanie kolejnych kręgów piekielnych.
NIE POLECAM
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2025
Książka nie porywa - ani opisami Sycylii, a już tym bardziej bardzo przewidywalną fabułą. Dziwi mnie dobór charakteru dla 40-latki, która przez całą książkę próbuje przekonać czytelników i przede wszystkim samą siebie, że rzeczywiście chce wyjść za mąż za swojego przyjaciela, z którym zawarła pakt kilkanaście lat wcześniej. Bohaterka nie grzeszy też inteligencją. Czasami wydawało mi się, że prowadzi równolegle inny dialog, ponieważ odpowiedzi wskazywały na niezainteresowanie odpowiedziami rozmówcy. No i come on - fabuła jest ogólnie baaaardzooo nierealistyczna, przez co jeszcze gorzej się to czytało. Kolejny minus za powtarzalność zdań i wątków, ponieważ w kółko gadało się o tym samym.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 13, 2024
mega przewidywalna. często powtarzały się TE SAME ZDANIA 😭😭😭😭😭 taka nijaka, luźna i powtarzam PRZEWIDYWALNA MEGA ale na wakacje, a tym bardziej na zabiegany wyjazd byla okej
June 28, 2025
Sweet small town vibes with lots of limonchello. You could almost smell it.
Lovely super vanilla story barely even a kiss in the book. Very pg.
Loved it.
Lovely super vanilla story barely even a kiss in the book. Very pg.
Loved it.
June 18, 2021
Easy and lovely book to read set it beautiful Sicily, enjoy the escapism and way of life.
July 18, 2019
When life gives you lemons….go to Sicily and make a fresh pasta to go with them!! I have been so looking forward to the latest Jo Thomas and in the absence of any sunshine in the UK, this book shone a little warmth and Sicilian ambience into a dull and dreary evening for me. I loved the older and more life experienced characters here in My Lemon Grove Summer and I devoured the book much as I would have done that lemon and garlic pasta which made my mouth explode in an imagined tastebud sensation whilst reading its description!
I loved Zelda and Lennies friendship but I knew that it was going to be stretched beyond the expected with their move to Sicily. It sounded like a dream come true, to move to a new life with accommodation provided to make the best start but unfortunately if things sound to good to be true then they usually are! Once on Sicilian soil, the friends see their dreams start crumbling around them rather like the homes they had been promised before they arrived!
There was a cast of funny and intriguing characters supporting Zelda and Lennie as they worked to achieve the life they hoped for and the storyline helped them along with ups and downs for them all. The setting was just so perfectly crafted by Jo Thomas that I could imagine myself as part of this small community fighting to reestablish itself among the beautiful Lemon groves that had been left unfulfilled by their neglect.
There was one point that I felt could have been explored more which is difficult to explain without giving spoilers! But during the final few pages, when things started to come together, something comes out about one of the characters that I felt was a rather “neat” way of explaining something about their personality and choices they made! I felt that this could have been explored with more depth as it’s something very close to my heart and I felt that it was a missed opportunity to raise more awareness! I know that this is very vague due to me not wanting to spoil the plot but I just felt I had to mention it even though others won’t even notice it probably!
Ultimately, Jo Thomas always delivers for me. I love her heroines and their life changing decisions that take them to some of the most beautiful locations in the world. My Lemon Grove Summer is a gorgeous book that is perfect for your sun lounger read this summer so use those lemons to make some homemade lemonade and relax in the sunshine with Zelda and friends. Enjoy!
I loved Zelda and Lennies friendship but I knew that it was going to be stretched beyond the expected with their move to Sicily. It sounded like a dream come true, to move to a new life with accommodation provided to make the best start but unfortunately if things sound to good to be true then they usually are! Once on Sicilian soil, the friends see their dreams start crumbling around them rather like the homes they had been promised before they arrived!
There was a cast of funny and intriguing characters supporting Zelda and Lennie as they worked to achieve the life they hoped for and the storyline helped them along with ups and downs for them all. The setting was just so perfectly crafted by Jo Thomas that I could imagine myself as part of this small community fighting to reestablish itself among the beautiful Lemon groves that had been left unfulfilled by their neglect.
There was one point that I felt could have been explored more which is difficult to explain without giving spoilers! But during the final few pages, when things started to come together, something comes out about one of the characters that I felt was a rather “neat” way of explaining something about their personality and choices they made! I felt that this could have been explored with more depth as it’s something very close to my heart and I felt that it was a missed opportunity to raise more awareness! I know that this is very vague due to me not wanting to spoil the plot but I just felt I had to mention it even though others won’t even notice it probably!
Ultimately, Jo Thomas always delivers for me. I love her heroines and their life changing decisions that take them to some of the most beautiful locations in the world. My Lemon Grove Summer is a gorgeous book that is perfect for your sun lounger read this summer so use those lemons to make some homemade lemonade and relax in the sunshine with Zelda and friends. Enjoy!
August 29, 2019
Zelda and Lennie are best friends. When they were teens they made a pact. If they were not in a relationship with their respective Mr or Mrs Perfect by the time they were 40, they would marry each other. Both are stuck in a rut and single when Lennie pulls the “pact” agreement out and suggests to Zelda that they up-sticks and move to Sicily. A fresh start, a new adventure beckons.
This is such a wonderful book that I happily lost myself in for an afternoon. The author once again successfully created wonderful imagery with her words. I was able to imagine the village and more importantly the surrounding area and the lemon groves. I have not been to Sicily, but the author made me feel as if I had glimpsed it through her story.
The adventure that Zelda and Lennie sign up for is a dream of local business man, to help -build the community he loves and get the passing tourists to stop rather than just drive past. On arrival though, Zelda and Lennie discover that things have not been planed and sorted as they had expected. They soon discover they are not the only ones who have decided a fresh start is the way to go.
I liked how the author brought in people from different backgrounds and for different reasons together, though she does not excessively dwell on those, she does give enough information about them so I got to know them a little. The main focus is on the key characters, and I have to say there is one I would quite happily focus on!…
Lemons feature in this story and does some fabulous food mentions, I am glad I read this after eating a Sunday roast or my stomach would have been growling. Along with the food, there is also a mentions about lemons, and the growing of them.
This is one of those stories that I think is delightful reading, it is perfect for loosing yourself in and makes you feel good. The author has woven a tale that has friendship, optimism, feuds, family, relationships and drama.
A fabulous summer read that I happily read in one sitting. It’s also one that I would definitely recommend!
This is such a wonderful book that I happily lost myself in for an afternoon. The author once again successfully created wonderful imagery with her words. I was able to imagine the village and more importantly the surrounding area and the lemon groves. I have not been to Sicily, but the author made me feel as if I had glimpsed it through her story.
The adventure that Zelda and Lennie sign up for is a dream of local business man, to help -build the community he loves and get the passing tourists to stop rather than just drive past. On arrival though, Zelda and Lennie discover that things have not been planed and sorted as they had expected. They soon discover they are not the only ones who have decided a fresh start is the way to go.
I liked how the author brought in people from different backgrounds and for different reasons together, though she does not excessively dwell on those, she does give enough information about them so I got to know them a little. The main focus is on the key characters, and I have to say there is one I would quite happily focus on!…
Lemons feature in this story and does some fabulous food mentions, I am glad I read this after eating a Sunday roast or my stomach would have been growling. Along with the food, there is also a mentions about lemons, and the growing of them.
This is one of those stories that I think is delightful reading, it is perfect for loosing yourself in and makes you feel good. The author has woven a tale that has friendship, optimism, feuds, family, relationships and drama.
A fabulous summer read that I happily read in one sitting. It’s also one that I would definitely recommend!
July 11, 2019
*I voluntarily reviewed this book from the tour organiser
Welcome to MY LEMON GROVE SUMMER by Jo Thomas. A novel that will enrich your senses in a way that will have you looking up trips to Sicily within minutes of reading it. A novel with in-depth characters that will captivate you from the very beginning and make you ignore daily life as you just have to finish one more page.
We have all seen those ads that offer you a new life in an often small community abroad in exchange for work, right? But have you ever thought of what might happen if you said yes and moved to one of these stunning locations? Well, this is the case for Zelda and a group of strangers who find themselves in a stunning town in Sicily, where the scent of lemons lingers in the air. This place is perfect and as new residents and old begin to mingle, friendships begin to form. But there is something a little off about this magical place and all is never quite what it seems. Can this newly formed community band together to unlock their new potential both in their new home and themselves?
MY LEMON GROVE SUMMER by Jo Thomas is simply wonderful and there is not one thing I would change about this tantalising tale. The sights, smells, sounds, and tastes take on a life of their own as I have now come to expect from this fabulous author, and the setting is breathtaking. There is drama, friendship, fresh starts, and tradition, all combining in this book to make it such an engaging story and I highly recommend MY LEMON GROVE SUMMER by Jo Thomas to any reader who likes to be transported to another country in every possible way. A must-read!!
Welcome to MY LEMON GROVE SUMMER by Jo Thomas. A novel that will enrich your senses in a way that will have you looking up trips to Sicily within minutes of reading it. A novel with in-depth characters that will captivate you from the very beginning and make you ignore daily life as you just have to finish one more page.
We have all seen those ads that offer you a new life in an often small community abroad in exchange for work, right? But have you ever thought of what might happen if you said yes and moved to one of these stunning locations? Well, this is the case for Zelda and a group of strangers who find themselves in a stunning town in Sicily, where the scent of lemons lingers in the air. This place is perfect and as new residents and old begin to mingle, friendships begin to form. But there is something a little off about this magical place and all is never quite what it seems. Can this newly formed community band together to unlock their new potential both in their new home and themselves?
MY LEMON GROVE SUMMER by Jo Thomas is simply wonderful and there is not one thing I would change about this tantalising tale. The sights, smells, sounds, and tastes take on a life of their own as I have now come to expect from this fabulous author, and the setting is breathtaking. There is drama, friendship, fresh starts, and tradition, all combining in this book to make it such an engaging story and I highly recommend MY LEMON GROVE SUMMER by Jo Thomas to any reader who likes to be transported to another country in every possible way. A must-read!!
June 27, 2019
This is now the 4th Jo Thomas book I have read as I just love the feel good factor her stories leave you with. She has a way of making you feel like you are right in the place the characters of the story are with sounds and smells and local cuisine that makes me wish I was somewhere sunny at the moment.
This story is about two best friends, Lennie and Zelda who made a pact that if neither of them were married by 40 then they might as well marry each other. An offer comes up from a village in Sicily that needs new residents to rejuvenate it and put it back on the map. Zelda decides to take the leap with Lennie and move out to Citta d'Ora. There is nothing much left for her in England after she sells up all she has and makes the move along with several other hopefuls looking for a new start. However, when they get to their destination things are not quite as rosy as they expect.
If things are going to pan out there, there is a lot of obstacles that everyone will have to overcome and it doesn't help that most of the locals are less than welcoming to the outsiders. To make matters worse (or better) for Zelda she is having serious doubts about marrying Lennie as she keeps having thoughts about the restaurant owner called Luca who has been one of the few residents that has welcomed the new arrivals.
There are descriptions of food and delicious sounding recipes as well as the drink Limoncello which makes me curious to try some! The book is a lovely summer read that leaves you with a glow.
This story is about two best friends, Lennie and Zelda who made a pact that if neither of them were married by 40 then they might as well marry each other. An offer comes up from a village in Sicily that needs new residents to rejuvenate it and put it back on the map. Zelda decides to take the leap with Lennie and move out to Citta d'Ora. There is nothing much left for her in England after she sells up all she has and makes the move along with several other hopefuls looking for a new start. However, when they get to their destination things are not quite as rosy as they expect.
If things are going to pan out there, there is a lot of obstacles that everyone will have to overcome and it doesn't help that most of the locals are less than welcoming to the outsiders. To make matters worse (or better) for Zelda she is having serious doubts about marrying Lennie as she keeps having thoughts about the restaurant owner called Luca who has been one of the few residents that has welcomed the new arrivals.
There are descriptions of food and delicious sounding recipes as well as the drink Limoncello which makes me curious to try some! The book is a lovely summer read that leaves you with a glow.
April 20, 2020
When life gives you lemon - you make Limoncello!
This book was so good, and I just couldn't stop reading it.
I was in the sun in Sicily and I swear I could smell the lemons...
A very good book - read it!!!
This book was so good, and I just couldn't stop reading it.
I was in the sun in Sicily and I swear I could smell the lemons...
A very good book - read it!!!
April 19, 2020
This book was just what I needed... easy to get into...great characters loved Zelda & Luca & everyone else involved in the Sicily adventure! Brilliant! Love Jo Thomas’ writing.
July 18, 2019
I absolutely loved this book! The setting - a small village in the foothills of Mount Etna, surrounded by lemon groves, immediately piqued my interest. Add in a group of less than welcoming locals and a bunch of people thrown together who are determined to stay and make a future for themselves then you have the makings of a great story. The characters are perfectly portrayed and jump off the page, inviting the reader into their lives. This lovely heart-warming story will stay with you and might even lead you to adventures of your own. I now want to visit Sicily more than ever but for now, will content myself with a glass of limoncello.
September 2, 2019
I absolutely loved this novel!
Thomas provides perfect escapism to sunny Sicily, the scenery idyllic and food sounds scrumptious.
The characters easily investible from the beginning. And I love the way the character physical looks are subtly described and the emphasis on personality. The storytelling is beautiful and I love how Mount Etna had a character all of her own! She is definitely enigmatic even in real time to warrant it!! The perfect rich, warm and sunny read for this gorgeous bank holiday weather.
Thanks to Headline Review and Anna for sending me this in exchange for an open and honest review.
Thomas provides perfect escapism to sunny Sicily, the scenery idyllic and food sounds scrumptious.
The characters easily investible from the beginning. And I love the way the character physical looks are subtly described and the emphasis on personality. The storytelling is beautiful and I love how Mount Etna had a character all of her own! She is definitely enigmatic even in real time to warrant it!! The perfect rich, warm and sunny read for this gorgeous bank holiday weather.
Thanks to Headline Review and Anna for sending me this in exchange for an open and honest review.
November 2, 2019
Predictable romantic tosh. Not badly written but formulated.
May 17, 2021
So I finished it in one sitting which means it's an easy read. So very light and fluffy... but hey, sometimes that's what you need.
July 8, 2019
Jo Thomas' new novel My Lemon Grove Summer takes us to the island of Sicily to the hilltop village of Citta D'Oro, it was once a prosperous and bustling village but now it is desolate and falling to pieces. Tourists drive through the village without stopping on their way to Mount Etna and the villagers are merely existing not thriving. But with the arrival of Zelda, Lennie and a few others will the fortunes of the village be about to change?
Stepping back a bit to see how our main characters arrive on the island we first meet Zelda who is approaching her 40th birthday as she attends a party with her long term friend Lennie. She wonders is this what is ahead for me sliding into old age solo and left on the shelf. Yet again the man she viewed as a contender on her dating app has left her high and dry, after a few dates she thinks she is not Miss. Perfect and always seems to pick Mr. Imperfect. By now she thought she would be happily married with kids, a home and a dog but this dream couldn't be further from her reality. Zelda was definitely an old romantic and looking for the romance and love that exists in films but so far it has very much evaded her.
So when Lennie reminds her of a pact they made in college her interest is piqued but I wondered right from the beginning was she settling for second best because worry was crippling her that she would be left on the shelf and maybe she jumped into the situation that unfolded without given it any real deep and meaningful consideration. I could feel Zelda's desperation that all she wanted was some security in her life which would boost her confidence. As the story develops and we get to know her a little better it's evident that events in her childhood deeply affected her and she is afraid of history repeating itself. Aside from the personal side of her life, her work/professional life isn't much better. Her dream of a vintage clothing business was established only for it to come crashing down and she feels her hopes and aspirations were stolen from her.
As Zelda recalls the promise settled upon many years ago she thought sure what have I to lose as I have lost everything so far and I can't see what direction my life needs to go in. On one hand she is very brave to go for it as people always say never say no to adventures or else you will lead a very dull life. On the other hand I really did think she was crazy and impulsive as she is reminded that if neither herself or Lennie were married by 40 than they should marry each other. I thought she was not thinking things through as saying yes to everything has gotten her into trouble in the past but maybe this was the opportunity that was waiting for her all along. Lennie was a gentle character who I thought at times was too much on the periphery considering he was going to marry Zelda. I would have loved maybe one or two chapters from his viewpoint even though I know this was Zelda's story. I did guess a certain angle to Lennie's story fairly early on but I thought it was very fitting and worked out very well over all.
As Lennie and Zelda embark on an adventure in response to an ad he has seen online, one wonders will their new life relocating to Sicily to live and work be a disaster or an utter triumph. They both have visions of accepting their relocating money and living in a nice villa perhaps, soaking up the sun, finding work and establishing new and contented lives. With this new phase in her life about to begin Zelda feels a sense of release like a weight has lifted from her shoulders. But it soon becomes apparent that everything they had been promised and their spur of the moment and impetuous idea was not going to live up to expectations. They arrive to find the village on its knees with buildings crumbling, lemon groves dilapidated, overgrown and abandoned and an air of melancholy about the village. They have been brought in to breath new life to the village and as the belief is that to keep Mount Etna happy a marriage must take place every ten years Lennie and Zelda are the perfect fit. But as Giuseppe has such aspirations for the village there are many and perhaps one dominant force blocking him at every turn.
If it had been me I think I would have upped and ran away from the situation the pair found themselves in. I know they wanted to find some sort of happiness and stability in the chaos and uncertainity of their lives but when you expect one thing and discover another I think it gives you justifiable means to back out. As it soon becomes apparent that a house is not ready for Zelda and Lennie, and that they will have to share with other people, they realise they will have to stay as they had been relying on the relocation money which has now gone missing.
I loved the other characters that were introduced that had travelled from Britain too in the hopes of establishing a new life. Tabitha is a writer hoping to write many articles and books in the Sicilian sunshine, Barry has three failed marriages behind him. Ralph is fleeing a disaster in London and Sherise and Billy just want some land to farm animals as they had been taken away from them back at home. It was an unusual group forced together by the promise of a good life but as they discover all is not as it seems and they very much have a battle on their hands. Are the group all brought together because they each are escaping something in their lives? Are they all in the last chance saloon of life and will this opportunity give them the break they so desperately need? Only time will tell and they go back and forth over whether to stay given the promises have not become a reality.But suffice to say what unfolded was an enjoyable, heartfelt and engaging read that you very easily become lost in.
I thought once Zelda and Lennie reached Sicily the story developed at just the right pace and I really felt as if I was on the island with them. I was glad they faced challenges and that it wasn't all plain sailing. I could easily visualise the setting so clearly in my head as Jo Thomas no matter where her books are set always brings the setting to life through such vivid descriptions and I always love how food plays such an important role in her books. It's evident she enjoys the research that goes into her books. This time its lemons and the limoncello that features very prominently. She takes something that is native to the area and showcases it and weaves it into the story so expertly that it almost becomes a plot line in itself and is instrumental in how Zelda begins to grow up that little bit, to grow in confidence and to take the bull by the horns to make something of the situation she finds herself in.
I thought the reasons for Zelda's impulsiveness and the fact she behaves in certain ways and takes risks were very well done and slipped in perfectly to the story. It made me change my opinion of her because on reflection I was quite judgemental of her when really I should have sat back and watched the story unfold and not form such early opinions. Zelda and the community, which becomes more like a family, came up against stiff opposition in their bid to transform the fortunes of the village. With help from restaurateur Luca their ideas begin to flow and perhaps some other more emotional and physical elements begin to flow too but can they come to fruition given the many obstacles placed in Zelda's path.
I didn't like how one person could emit so much control and power over an entire village and I thought the reason for doing so was slightly weak. Said person was the master of manipulation, a bigoted bully who needed taking down a peg or two. As all the villagers seemed to be connected in one way or another, and a wall of opposition was cemented, I loved how Zelda just kept ploughing on and that she was learning to trust her own instincts, to know her heart but if she was doing this with regard to the bigger issue of the village would she be able to apply the same principles when it me to her personal life or will she live to regret the decision she had made with regard to a pact made so many years ago?
In the first half of the book I felt things dragged ever so slightly but once I reached the half way point I found myself fully invested in the story and yet again Jo Thomas has woven her magic and created another fabulous summer read. There are lots of life lessons to be learned throughout and witnessing the transformation of Zelda was a joy to read. Follow your heart, follow your instincts and take a leap of faith.But does Zelda do this? Make sure you pick up this uplifting, superb and gratifying story to discover the outcome for Zelda and co.
Stepping back a bit to see how our main characters arrive on the island we first meet Zelda who is approaching her 40th birthday as she attends a party with her long term friend Lennie. She wonders is this what is ahead for me sliding into old age solo and left on the shelf. Yet again the man she viewed as a contender on her dating app has left her high and dry, after a few dates she thinks she is not Miss. Perfect and always seems to pick Mr. Imperfect. By now she thought she would be happily married with kids, a home and a dog but this dream couldn't be further from her reality. Zelda was definitely an old romantic and looking for the romance and love that exists in films but so far it has very much evaded her.
So when Lennie reminds her of a pact they made in college her interest is piqued but I wondered right from the beginning was she settling for second best because worry was crippling her that she would be left on the shelf and maybe she jumped into the situation that unfolded without given it any real deep and meaningful consideration. I could feel Zelda's desperation that all she wanted was some security in her life which would boost her confidence. As the story develops and we get to know her a little better it's evident that events in her childhood deeply affected her and she is afraid of history repeating itself. Aside from the personal side of her life, her work/professional life isn't much better. Her dream of a vintage clothing business was established only for it to come crashing down and she feels her hopes and aspirations were stolen from her.
As Zelda recalls the promise settled upon many years ago she thought sure what have I to lose as I have lost everything so far and I can't see what direction my life needs to go in. On one hand she is very brave to go for it as people always say never say no to adventures or else you will lead a very dull life. On the other hand I really did think she was crazy and impulsive as she is reminded that if neither herself or Lennie were married by 40 than they should marry each other. I thought she was not thinking things through as saying yes to everything has gotten her into trouble in the past but maybe this was the opportunity that was waiting for her all along. Lennie was a gentle character who I thought at times was too much on the periphery considering he was going to marry Zelda. I would have loved maybe one or two chapters from his viewpoint even though I know this was Zelda's story. I did guess a certain angle to Lennie's story fairly early on but I thought it was very fitting and worked out very well over all.
As Lennie and Zelda embark on an adventure in response to an ad he has seen online, one wonders will their new life relocating to Sicily to live and work be a disaster or an utter triumph. They both have visions of accepting their relocating money and living in a nice villa perhaps, soaking up the sun, finding work and establishing new and contented lives. With this new phase in her life about to begin Zelda feels a sense of release like a weight has lifted from her shoulders. But it soon becomes apparent that everything they had been promised and their spur of the moment and impetuous idea was not going to live up to expectations. They arrive to find the village on its knees with buildings crumbling, lemon groves dilapidated, overgrown and abandoned and an air of melancholy about the village. They have been brought in to breath new life to the village and as the belief is that to keep Mount Etna happy a marriage must take place every ten years Lennie and Zelda are the perfect fit. But as Giuseppe has such aspirations for the village there are many and perhaps one dominant force blocking him at every turn.
If it had been me I think I would have upped and ran away from the situation the pair found themselves in. I know they wanted to find some sort of happiness and stability in the chaos and uncertainity of their lives but when you expect one thing and discover another I think it gives you justifiable means to back out. As it soon becomes apparent that a house is not ready for Zelda and Lennie, and that they will have to share with other people, they realise they will have to stay as they had been relying on the relocation money which has now gone missing.
I loved the other characters that were introduced that had travelled from Britain too in the hopes of establishing a new life. Tabitha is a writer hoping to write many articles and books in the Sicilian sunshine, Barry has three failed marriages behind him. Ralph is fleeing a disaster in London and Sherise and Billy just want some land to farm animals as they had been taken away from them back at home. It was an unusual group forced together by the promise of a good life but as they discover all is not as it seems and they very much have a battle on their hands. Are the group all brought together because they each are escaping something in their lives? Are they all in the last chance saloon of life and will this opportunity give them the break they so desperately need? Only time will tell and they go back and forth over whether to stay given the promises have not become a reality.But suffice to say what unfolded was an enjoyable, heartfelt and engaging read that you very easily become lost in.
I thought once Zelda and Lennie reached Sicily the story developed at just the right pace and I really felt as if I was on the island with them. I was glad they faced challenges and that it wasn't all plain sailing. I could easily visualise the setting so clearly in my head as Jo Thomas no matter where her books are set always brings the setting to life through such vivid descriptions and I always love how food plays such an important role in her books. It's evident she enjoys the research that goes into her books. This time its lemons and the limoncello that features very prominently. She takes something that is native to the area and showcases it and weaves it into the story so expertly that it almost becomes a plot line in itself and is instrumental in how Zelda begins to grow up that little bit, to grow in confidence and to take the bull by the horns to make something of the situation she finds herself in.
I thought the reasons for Zelda's impulsiveness and the fact she behaves in certain ways and takes risks were very well done and slipped in perfectly to the story. It made me change my opinion of her because on reflection I was quite judgemental of her when really I should have sat back and watched the story unfold and not form such early opinions. Zelda and the community, which becomes more like a family, came up against stiff opposition in their bid to transform the fortunes of the village. With help from restaurateur Luca their ideas begin to flow and perhaps some other more emotional and physical elements begin to flow too but can they come to fruition given the many obstacles placed in Zelda's path.
I didn't like how one person could emit so much control and power over an entire village and I thought the reason for doing so was slightly weak. Said person was the master of manipulation, a bigoted bully who needed taking down a peg or two. As all the villagers seemed to be connected in one way or another, and a wall of opposition was cemented, I loved how Zelda just kept ploughing on and that she was learning to trust her own instincts, to know her heart but if she was doing this with regard to the bigger issue of the village would she be able to apply the same principles when it me to her personal life or will she live to regret the decision she had made with regard to a pact made so many years ago?
In the first half of the book I felt things dragged ever so slightly but once I reached the half way point I found myself fully invested in the story and yet again Jo Thomas has woven her magic and created another fabulous summer read. There are lots of life lessons to be learned throughout and witnessing the transformation of Zelda was a joy to read. Follow your heart, follow your instincts and take a leap of faith.But does Zelda do this? Make sure you pick up this uplifting, superb and gratifying story to discover the outcome for Zelda and co.
April 26, 2021
The story started off a bit slow, but gained momentum as it progressed. It was a lovely storyline. Revolved around Lennie & Zelda who had been great friends since college. Neither of them had relationships that ever lasted & they were now into their 40's. Lennie reminded Zelda of their pact from college days, that if they weren't married by their 40's, they'd marry each other.
Both are fed up with their lives, living with others & getting nowhere in life. Lennie sees an advert for hard working people to go to live in Sicily on subsidised rents & a relocation fee & convinces Zelda for them to give it a go, as a couple. They get to Sicily, but all is not according to the advert.
They meet the other people who have responded to the advert too & all have to bunk in together, because the promised houses haven't even been started on yet. Then they find that the relocation fees for them have gone missing from the bank account. So it looks as if they'll all have to go back home. Only that gets delayed because the volcano Etna decides to erupt & all the debris & smoke stops planes from flying. None of them have much money left & so decide to clean up the farmhouse, where they're staying & rent out the two spare rooms on the internet as airbnb, to tide them over whilst waiting to leave. This proves popular. None of them really want to go back home & have nothing to go back to, which is why they all applied to the advert. Hoping for a fresh start with some money to start them off, a roof over their heads & jobs. They all decide they don't want to go back. So they ask the mayor, whose old family farmhouse they're staying in, if they can stay & try to work something out. He happily agrees. So the fun begins! There are plenty of obstacles in their way. The biggest one being the tyrant of the village, Romano. It's a good read & gets better as it goes along. Worth reading.
Both are fed up with their lives, living with others & getting nowhere in life. Lennie sees an advert for hard working people to go to live in Sicily on subsidised rents & a relocation fee & convinces Zelda for them to give it a go, as a couple. They get to Sicily, but all is not according to the advert.
They meet the other people who have responded to the advert too & all have to bunk in together, because the promised houses haven't even been started on yet. Then they find that the relocation fees for them have gone missing from the bank account. So it looks as if they'll all have to go back home. Only that gets delayed because the volcano Etna decides to erupt & all the debris & smoke stops planes from flying. None of them have much money left & so decide to clean up the farmhouse, where they're staying & rent out the two spare rooms on the internet as airbnb, to tide them over whilst waiting to leave. This proves popular. None of them really want to go back home & have nothing to go back to, which is why they all applied to the advert. Hoping for a fresh start with some money to start them off, a roof over their heads & jobs. They all decide they don't want to go back. So they ask the mayor, whose old family farmhouse they're staying in, if they can stay & try to work something out. He happily agrees. So the fun begins! There are plenty of obstacles in their way. The biggest one being the tyrant of the village, Romano. It's a good read & gets better as it goes along. Worth reading.
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