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La vacanza più bella della mia vita
Dopo aver perso l’uomo che amava in un tragico incidente, Gina ha faticosamente rimesso insieme i pezzi della sua vita, seppellendo i sentimenti in fondo al cuore. L’unica cosa che la fa andare avanti è il suo bed and breakfast tra le colline del Lake District. Con l’arrivo di un nuovo ospite, Fabio Garcia, in Gina sembra riaccendersi una scintilla, dopo tantissimo tempo. E per un momento si sente di nuovo viva. Fabio è alto, bello e affascinante, ma soprattutto riesce a farla ridere. Il senso di colpa non l’abbandona, ma gli amici (e qualche bicchiere di vino) finiscono per spingerla tra le braccia di Fabio. Gina sa che non è niente di serio, ma è convinta che sia esattamente quello di cui ha bisogno. E così, quando Fabio la invita nel suo albergo sul lago di Como, lei accetta. Al suo arrivo trova ad attenderla luoghi meravigliosi, resi ancora più speciali dalle premure di Fabio, che si impegna per farla sentire a proprio agio. Riuscirà ad accettare l’idea di avere il diritto di essere felice o continuerà a fuggire dai sentimenti che prova?
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 17, 2019
602 people are currently reading
497 people want to read
About the author
Sue Roberts
34 books167 followersSue was born in Liverpool and moved to Lancashire as a teenager where she has lived ever since. She has written three books, the third 'My Summer of love and limoncello.' will be published on March 6th and she is busy working on a fourth book. When not busy writing, Sue spends her time with her ever growing family. She enjoys walking, cinema and travelling. Her first book 'My Big Greek Summer.' was inspired by frequent visits to the Island of Rhodes in Greece. All Sue's books are available from Amazon in kindle and paperback format.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
August 2, 2018
4 Shining Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
This was an absolutely delightful book full of fabulous characters... BUT after reading the blurb, looking at that Beautiful cover and judging by the title I thought this was going to be all about an Italian vacation.... so when at 50% we were still in England, I was slightly confused! That is not to say I wasn’t thoroughly enjoying this book, it was a wonderful story, just really not about a vacation... also was expecting a summer read, but they celebrate Christmas in this book... again not a bad thing and I really loved some of the parts that focused on Christmas... I guess what I’m trying to say is a huge 4 stars for the book and a measly 1 Star for the blurb... so I’d strongly encourage you to pick this book up without reading that blurb, do not want your expectations to be misled!
This really is a book about family, friends, second chances,moving on, and of course love.... Gina is slowly getting over the untimely death of her husband Adam.... she has also started a successful business in the Lake District.... Gina was a tremendously likable character, she had a great head on her shoulders and a enviable strength of mind and Spirit... but what I loved most was her tremendous bond with her sister Hannah...
There was also a romance in this book between Gina and Fabio... and this is what led Gina finally to head to Italy... I found the romance sweet, however it did move a little fast... but then again my own parents were engaged after two weeks and they have been married over 50 years, so who’s to say! Although I do think the quickness of their relationship lead to some miscommunication, but every book needs a little angst, right?
So even though this wasn’t the book I was expecting, it still was really good! I loved these characters... I loved the small town vibe in the Lake District... I loved Italy when we finally got there... I loved the sister bond between Gina and Hannah....
Absolutely recommend when you’re in the mood for a fun lighthearted read with some pretty darn fabulous characters...
*** many thanks to Bookouture for my copy of this book ***
This was an absolutely delightful book full of fabulous characters... BUT after reading the blurb, looking at that Beautiful cover and judging by the title I thought this was going to be all about an Italian vacation.... so when at 50% we were still in England, I was slightly confused! That is not to say I wasn’t thoroughly enjoying this book, it was a wonderful story, just really not about a vacation... also was expecting a summer read, but they celebrate Christmas in this book... again not a bad thing and I really loved some of the parts that focused on Christmas... I guess what I’m trying to say is a huge 4 stars for the book and a measly 1 Star for the blurb... so I’d strongly encourage you to pick this book up without reading that blurb, do not want your expectations to be misled!
This really is a book about family, friends, second chances,moving on, and of course love.... Gina is slowly getting over the untimely death of her husband Adam.... she has also started a successful business in the Lake District.... Gina was a tremendously likable character, she had a great head on her shoulders and a enviable strength of mind and Spirit... but what I loved most was her tremendous bond with her sister Hannah...
There was also a romance in this book between Gina and Fabio... and this is what led Gina finally to head to Italy... I found the romance sweet, however it did move a little fast... but then again my own parents were engaged after two weeks and they have been married over 50 years, so who’s to say! Although I do think the quickness of their relationship lead to some miscommunication, but every book needs a little angst, right?
So even though this wasn’t the book I was expecting, it still was really good! I loved these characters... I loved the small town vibe in the Lake District... I loved Italy when we finally got there... I loved the sister bond between Gina and Hannah....
Absolutely recommend when you’re in the mood for a fun lighthearted read with some pretty darn fabulous characters...
*** many thanks to Bookouture for my copy of this book ***
July 17, 2018
My Very Italian Holiday by Sue Roberts is a contemporary romance that does have a touch of comedy to it although I wouldn’t completely label it a rom/com. This title too is another that seems the book blurb doesn’t really match the advance reading copy that I read as the story doesn’t get near Italy at all until well past halfway.
The book actually begins with Gina running her own bed and breakfast in England that still sounded like a lovely area to be but it certainly wasn’t Italy yet. Gina had lost her husband a couple of years before and with the help of her sister she had managed to keep her B&B running and quite the success.
As the book goes on Gina does eventually meet Fabio and of course everyone is pushing Gina that it’s time she think about romance again. Gina and Fabio do hit it off and Fabio is in the middle of making plans for his own hotel and asks Gina for advice and if she’s willing to help. After that long beginning eventually the story makes it to Italy.
Now, I know my rating is a little low on this one but there were a couple of specific reasons why. The story got off to a wonderful start with a nice setting despite it not being Italy quite yet but while I did find myself laughing quite often a few of the jokes that came to me were just kind of mean spirited… for instance Gina’s sister complaining about karaoke singers, that kind of brought it down a bit for me.
But also, for some reason Fabio seemed a bit older and not quite what I would have expected too for some reason. Plus the idea of Gina leaving her own successful business also wasn’t that appealing to root for after spending so much time getting to know it. But I’m sure that while this one wasn’t a total favorite of mine a lot will love the story.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
The book actually begins with Gina running her own bed and breakfast in England that still sounded like a lovely area to be but it certainly wasn’t Italy yet. Gina had lost her husband a couple of years before and with the help of her sister she had managed to keep her B&B running and quite the success.
As the book goes on Gina does eventually meet Fabio and of course everyone is pushing Gina that it’s time she think about romance again. Gina and Fabio do hit it off and Fabio is in the middle of making plans for his own hotel and asks Gina for advice and if she’s willing to help. After that long beginning eventually the story makes it to Italy.
Now, I know my rating is a little low on this one but there were a couple of specific reasons why. The story got off to a wonderful start with a nice setting despite it not being Italy quite yet but while I did find myself laughing quite often a few of the jokes that came to me were just kind of mean spirited… for instance Gina’s sister complaining about karaoke singers, that kind of brought it down a bit for me.
But also, for some reason Fabio seemed a bit older and not quite what I would have expected too for some reason. Plus the idea of Gina leaving her own successful business also wasn’t that appealing to root for after spending so much time getting to know it. But I’m sure that while this one wasn’t a total favorite of mine a lot will love the story.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
August 17, 2018
Reviewed for Harlequin Junkie- www.harlequinjunkie.com
Delightfully fun read!!
Delightfully fun read!!
July 17, 2018
This is a lovely story about a second chance at falling in love. Gina was widowed years ago and since then has put her heart into her Lake District B&B.
She has the support of her family, and some good friends and is slowly starting to realise she needs to be more social and starting getting out and about a bit more, which leads to some wonderful girls night out at the local pub with assorted theme nights which are hilarious.
I loved the sense of community in the Lake District and also meeting the assorted guests that Gina and sister Hannah had staying with them. I loved the scenery of the Lake District, and getting to know all of Gina's friends and family and their assorted characteristics and relationships.
Now you may be wondering why I am chatting about the Lake District about a book called A Very Italian Holiday - well for a fair bit of the book I was wondering that myself, as it took a while for an Italian man to even appear, let alone a trip to Lake Como.
Once we get to Italy I did in fact that love that part of the book two, especially the descriptions of Italian food and there are some incredibly funny scenes on Gina's busman's holiday. What dd surprise me was given the absolute gorgeousness of the summery cover for this book, that the main trip to Italy was in the winter, and it just didn't feel like the sort of poolside / garden read I was hoping for.
If anything I think this a book that will warm you up on an autumns day when you are reminiscing of sunlight, and wishing you were abroad.
My Very Italian Holiday is a good book, which I enjoyed a great deal, but I feel it suffers from second book syndrome, and I far preferred the authors first book. I am looking forward to seeing what she writes next as there is definitely a very good writer, with some great ideas present, so will be interesting to see how that develops.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
She has the support of her family, and some good friends and is slowly starting to realise she needs to be more social and starting getting out and about a bit more, which leads to some wonderful girls night out at the local pub with assorted theme nights which are hilarious.
I loved the sense of community in the Lake District and also meeting the assorted guests that Gina and sister Hannah had staying with them. I loved the scenery of the Lake District, and getting to know all of Gina's friends and family and their assorted characteristics and relationships.
Now you may be wondering why I am chatting about the Lake District about a book called A Very Italian Holiday - well for a fair bit of the book I was wondering that myself, as it took a while for an Italian man to even appear, let alone a trip to Lake Como.
Once we get to Italy I did in fact that love that part of the book two, especially the descriptions of Italian food and there are some incredibly funny scenes on Gina's busman's holiday. What dd surprise me was given the absolute gorgeousness of the summery cover for this book, that the main trip to Italy was in the winter, and it just didn't feel like the sort of poolside / garden read I was hoping for.
If anything I think this a book that will warm you up on an autumns day when you are reminiscing of sunlight, and wishing you were abroad.
My Very Italian Holiday is a good book, which I enjoyed a great deal, but I feel it suffers from second book syndrome, and I far preferred the authors first book. I am looking forward to seeing what she writes next as there is definitely a very good writer, with some great ideas present, so will be interesting to see how that develops.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
July 30, 2018
2.5 stars
Gina has been widowed for a few years and is now running a successful B&B that she's renovated with her husband before the tragic accident happened. Now she works with her sister Hannah and they both enjoy their job and the different variety of guests visiting. One guest, especially, in Gina's case. Fabio is visiting his uncle and staying in Gina's B&B. He's just inherited his own B&B at Lake Como and they quickly find common ground. But Fabio lives in Italy, and Gina in England, and is Gina looking for a new man in her life at all?
I've requested this book because this beautiful cover hollers "holidays", and well, the title as well, but I must probably stop doing it. I mean, requesting books because I love the covers. But that's me, a total cover - sucker. The synopsis was also promising, let's be honest, however the first grinding occurred when Italy appeared on the pages somewhere in the middle of the book. I don't mean it's wrong, Lake District is also a brilliant setting, and the descriptions of it were lovely, but then the holidays were not too very Italian, right.
I'd call this book chick - lit for beginners. I couldn't connect with the characters too much, not as much as I'd like, they were not too very well developed to be honest. The chapters were very short, which is good, as it usually make reading easier and faster, however some of them I could, well, live without, as they rather didn't bring anything significant to the story. I missed depth in this book, to be honest: the writing style was lovely but very simple, the narration told us the characters went to the bathroom and in the next paragraph that they left the bathroom. They went to bed and they woke up. The plot was not over - lapping, the things happened one after another: one situation ended, then came another that was solved at the end of the chapter. The banter between the characters was easy to follow as it was not too complex.
Sure, the book had its strong points as well, and those were the descriptions of the food for example, and there were some funny moments and situations, but altogether it just didn't work for me. It felt too forced and too artificial. It was too predictable and there were moments that were too dramatic to be true. But it was also a quick and easy read and there was for sure an idea there and potential. I still have the author's debut novel on my kindle, waiting patiently to be read, and I'll do this as soon as possible. I would recommend "My Very Italian Holiday" to those who are looking for a quick, summery and not too demanding book.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
Gina has been widowed for a few years and is now running a successful B&B that she's renovated with her husband before the tragic accident happened. Now she works with her sister Hannah and they both enjoy their job and the different variety of guests visiting. One guest, especially, in Gina's case. Fabio is visiting his uncle and staying in Gina's B&B. He's just inherited his own B&B at Lake Como and they quickly find common ground. But Fabio lives in Italy, and Gina in England, and is Gina looking for a new man in her life at all?
I've requested this book because this beautiful cover hollers "holidays", and well, the title as well, but I must probably stop doing it. I mean, requesting books because I love the covers. But that's me, a total cover - sucker. The synopsis was also promising, let's be honest, however the first grinding occurred when Italy appeared on the pages somewhere in the middle of the book. I don't mean it's wrong, Lake District is also a brilliant setting, and the descriptions of it were lovely, but then the holidays were not too very Italian, right.
I'd call this book chick - lit for beginners. I couldn't connect with the characters too much, not as much as I'd like, they were not too very well developed to be honest. The chapters were very short, which is good, as it usually make reading easier and faster, however some of them I could, well, live without, as they rather didn't bring anything significant to the story. I missed depth in this book, to be honest: the writing style was lovely but very simple, the narration told us the characters went to the bathroom and in the next paragraph that they left the bathroom. They went to bed and they woke up. The plot was not over - lapping, the things happened one after another: one situation ended, then came another that was solved at the end of the chapter. The banter between the characters was easy to follow as it was not too complex.
Sure, the book had its strong points as well, and those were the descriptions of the food for example, and there were some funny moments and situations, but altogether it just didn't work for me. It felt too forced and too artificial. It was too predictable and there were moments that were too dramatic to be true. But it was also a quick and easy read and there was for sure an idea there and potential. I still have the author's debut novel on my kindle, waiting patiently to be read, and I'll do this as soon as possible. I would recommend "My Very Italian Holiday" to those who are looking for a quick, summery and not too demanding book.
Copy provided by the publisher in return for an honest review.
July 14, 2018
I was so looking forward to reading this novel! I really enjoyed Sue's other novel so was hoping I would love this one just as much. The cover is absolutely stunning and just draws you straight to it! The bright colours, the shimmering sea and of course the cocktails just make for such a pretty cover and I wish I could go somewhere hot right now!
I will say now though, that I was surprised at how much of this book was set in England. What with the cover, the title and even the blurb I expected most of the novel to be set in Italy, so was shocked when I was more than half way through and not only were we still in England but it was Christmas as well! Don't get me wrong, the novel was so easy to read and I flew through the pages - it wasn't as though it was boring when it was set in England - it just wasn't what I was expecting to be honest. I actually really enjoyed reading about the Christmas Nativity play and Bonfire Night though! It got me a little excited about all that's to come!
Main character Gina was so relatable and I really felt for her throughout the novel as she tried her hardest to get over Adam. I loved Gina's sister Hannah and her dad was soooo cute! Actually I probably would have liked it even if the whole book was set in England! I felt like we were introduced to so many characters from the off that at first I was worried I wouldn't be able to keep up and didn't know why they were all mentioned (like Paul and his dad?!) but it had such a lovely community feel to it. I also felt that Fabio and Gina's relationship felt a little rushed and we were literally running through the months! However, I just could not put this book down.
Overall, it was different to what I expected but was still a really lovely read all the same. I do really enjoy Sue Roberts style of writing, it's easy to read, lighthearted and just overall really enjoyable. Thank you to the publisher for a chance to read this novel, which I have reviewed honestly.
I will say now though, that I was surprised at how much of this book was set in England. What with the cover, the title and even the blurb I expected most of the novel to be set in Italy, so was shocked when I was more than half way through and not only were we still in England but it was Christmas as well! Don't get me wrong, the novel was so easy to read and I flew through the pages - it wasn't as though it was boring when it was set in England - it just wasn't what I was expecting to be honest. I actually really enjoyed reading about the Christmas Nativity play and Bonfire Night though! It got me a little excited about all that's to come!
Main character Gina was so relatable and I really felt for her throughout the novel as she tried her hardest to get over Adam. I loved Gina's sister Hannah and her dad was soooo cute! Actually I probably would have liked it even if the whole book was set in England! I felt like we were introduced to so many characters from the off that at first I was worried I wouldn't be able to keep up and didn't know why they were all mentioned (like Paul and his dad?!) but it had such a lovely community feel to it. I also felt that Fabio and Gina's relationship felt a little rushed and we were literally running through the months! However, I just could not put this book down.
Overall, it was different to what I expected but was still a really lovely read all the same. I do really enjoy Sue Roberts style of writing, it's easy to read, lighthearted and just overall really enjoyable. Thank you to the publisher for a chance to read this novel, which I have reviewed honestly.
July 19, 2018
The cover really attracted me to this book along with the author and it didn't disappoint at all full of fun, romance and beautiful scenery really made you laugh out loud and shows how you need to think about your life and move forward after hard times. Full of families and how they pull together and of course love it when you hear all about lake como. Very heartwarming and didn't want to put it down at all. Worth far more than the five stars I gave it.
Gina owns a guesthouse in the Lake District and she sadly lost her husband and wonders if she will be ever happy again but she loves meeting people who come and stay. She has an Italian come and stay with her and she starts to fall for him but does she think it's right after loosing her husband. She decides to go on holiday to lake como and stays with Fabio and she gets to know him more but she learns he has a difficult past two and can they work through this or not. Fabio has a sister she says he is still in love with his ex so Gina comes straight home but has she made the right decision or can they work through the problems and be happy. Fabio is opening a guest house back at home and she enjoys helping him with advice but does her life belong home in England or in the sun with someone she loves can she make her mind up.
Well worth reading so beautiful.
Gina owns a guesthouse in the Lake District and she sadly lost her husband and wonders if she will be ever happy again but she loves meeting people who come and stay. She has an Italian come and stay with her and she starts to fall for him but does she think it's right after loosing her husband. She decides to go on holiday to lake como and stays with Fabio and she gets to know him more but she learns he has a difficult past two and can they work through this or not. Fabio has a sister she says he is still in love with his ex so Gina comes straight home but has she made the right decision or can they work through the problems and be happy. Fabio is opening a guest house back at home and she enjoys helping him with advice but does her life belong home in England or in the sun with someone she loves can she make her mind up.
Well worth reading so beautiful.
August 3, 2018
All reviews can be found on my blog at https://thewritinggarnet.wordpress.com
Overall, I enjoyed the premise of Sue Roberts' novel. There was romance. A hunky man from overseas. A main character who was determined to restart her life after being made a widow. As well as a rather positive message which the author delivers via her characters actions.
However, as I have never stepped foot onto Italian soil myself, I had rather hoped that the storyline would incorporate the country a little more than it actually did, which was a shame. Don't get me wrong, I am sure Fabio's Italian made a lot of readers go weak at the knees, so at least there is that!
'My Very Italian Holiday' is fun, carefree and full of enchanting positive vibes. I do think that the author is good at making her characters come across relatable and 'one of us', which for me is a definite thumbs up. However, I did find the main concept of the storyline a bit too predictable, but for a book that didn't require too much extensive thought, I would definitely recommend Sue Roberts' novel if you're fancying a bit of fun.
Overall, I enjoyed the premise of Sue Roberts' novel. There was romance. A hunky man from overseas. A main character who was determined to restart her life after being made a widow. As well as a rather positive message which the author delivers via her characters actions.
However, as I have never stepped foot onto Italian soil myself, I had rather hoped that the storyline would incorporate the country a little more than it actually did, which was a shame. Don't get me wrong, I am sure Fabio's Italian made a lot of readers go weak at the knees, so at least there is that!
'My Very Italian Holiday' is fun, carefree and full of enchanting positive vibes. I do think that the author is good at making her characters come across relatable and 'one of us', which for me is a definite thumbs up. However, I did find the main concept of the storyline a bit too predictable, but for a book that didn't require too much extensive thought, I would definitely recommend Sue Roberts' novel if you're fancying a bit of fun.
January 22, 2019
Review on My Blog
A lovely breathtaking romance and a cozy read
The story is based in "The lake District" . Where Gina owns a B&B . She had suffered a heart break 4 years ago and recovering from from loosing her husband . There other characters which are portrayed beautifully .She lives in a small Beautiful village with a circle of close friends and her family . I loved her relationship with her sister and her father and how she manages her relationship with her mother as well .
Things get interesting when a very handsome Italian man enters her life and changed it forever .
I loved the book and finished it in just couple of hours . I think the rainy weather helped me in this ☕⛈
➡Five full stars from me
➡ Recommend to anyone who loves to read about beautiful Lake district and beautiful italian towns .
A lovely breathtaking romance and a cozy read
The story is based in "The lake District" . Where Gina owns a B&B . She had suffered a heart break 4 years ago and recovering from from loosing her husband . There other characters which are portrayed beautifully .She lives in a small Beautiful village with a circle of close friends and her family . I loved her relationship with her sister and her father and how she manages her relationship with her mother as well .
Things get interesting when a very handsome Italian man enters her life and changed it forever .
I loved the book and finished it in just couple of hours . I think the rainy weather helped me in this ☕⛈
➡Five full stars from me
➡ Recommend to anyone who loves to read about beautiful Lake district and beautiful italian towns .
July 21, 2018
When life treats you badly, you have two choices : you can keep on wallowing in your sorrows or you can take some time to grief and move on. You never know what the future has in store for you and sometimes you have to take a plunge ...
This is such a gorgeous cover. I can almost feel the sun on my skin by just watching it. The story takes us to Italy and I felt like I was travelling with Gina. I saw the streets and shops, I smelt the delicious food that was being described and when she was at home in England, I enjoyed the love of her family and friends.
It a very nice feel good story where everybody's path of life goes towards a happy ending. This is why the book results a fabulous (Italian) beach read.
Thank you, Sue Roberts, Bookouture and Netgalley
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
This is such a gorgeous cover. I can almost feel the sun on my skin by just watching it. The story takes us to Italy and I felt like I was travelling with Gina. I saw the streets and shops, I smelt the delicious food that was being described and when she was at home in England, I enjoyed the love of her family and friends.
It a very nice feel good story where everybody's path of life goes towards a happy ending. This is why the book results a fabulous (Italian) beach read.
Thank you, Sue Roberts, Bookouture and Netgalley
https://bforbookreview.wordpress.com
February 10, 2021
Bardzo słaba obyczajówka, zakończenie przewidywalne od pierwszych stron książki. Pojawiły się ciekawe pomysły na wątki, tylko po to my móc je potem wrzucić do kosza. Szkoda, ponieważ to mogła być przyjemna powieść obyczajowa. Niestety daję tylko 1/5.
September 1, 2018
A bit of a mistaken identity as the story starts and continues in the Lake District for a significant amount of time, the story is actually all about discovering new possibilities in life and love after a loss. Gina and her sister run a bed and breakfast in the Lake district, not quite the original plan, but Gina’s husband died a couple of years back, and she followed through with their dream anyway, hoping it would help her through her grief and loss.
Fabio comes and stays at the B & B while visiting his uncle. This Italian is everything special: charming, handsome and even flirtatious, and there are certainly pushes to Gina, mostly from her sister, to explore a romance with him. She’s mostly content with her life as it is: she has friends and they go out on girls’ night to local pubs with ‘theme nights’ that are cute and clever, and she’s got serious support and help (as well as humor) from friends, her sister and the multiple guests that appear regularly – things are good. But still, the lure of Fabio is undeniable.
Now this is where I found most of my issues with the story – not only that it was not in Italy at first, and when things moved over it wasn’t really about Italy – sure it was a solidly clever story, and it was engaging in many ways – but to expect a woman to leave her successful business, one that was her dream, with barely a thought of the ‘what next’ for my B & B. I think it was more that this book was nothing like I expected from either the title or the blurb, and that the disconnect between the two, and the great descriptions and moments in the Lake District far outshone the moments in Italy.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
Fabio comes and stays at the B & B while visiting his uncle. This Italian is everything special: charming, handsome and even flirtatious, and there are certainly pushes to Gina, mostly from her sister, to explore a romance with him. She’s mostly content with her life as it is: she has friends and they go out on girls’ night to local pubs with ‘theme nights’ that are cute and clever, and she’s got serious support and help (as well as humor) from friends, her sister and the multiple guests that appear regularly – things are good. But still, the lure of Fabio is undeniable.
Now this is where I found most of my issues with the story – not only that it was not in Italy at first, and when things moved over it wasn’t really about Italy – sure it was a solidly clever story, and it was engaging in many ways – but to expect a woman to leave her successful business, one that was her dream, with barely a thought of the ‘what next’ for my B & B. I think it was more that this book was nothing like I expected from either the title or the blurb, and that the disconnect between the two, and the great descriptions and moments in the Lake District far outshone the moments in Italy.
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at I am, Indeed
August 1, 2018
Although I found this book rather predictable. Sue always makes me smile from ear to ear and leaves me enveloped in a warm happy hug. Her books are always uplifting and make yuou forget about the real world for a while. I absolutely loved the setting of this book and long to visit myself. The characters in this book were lovely and you really want the best for them. It was romantic and just lovely. So if you are looking for a good beach read this summer. Look no further.
December 19, 2020
I didn't like it at all. If You are hoping that this will be warm book about holidays in Italy then no You choose wrongly. There is really a little bit of Italy... maybe in epilogue? In the main part of book even when our leading character is in the country most of the action is dedicated to eating. You won't read about the views or Coloseum. You will read that she ate spaghetti (with all details) or how good the cake was. There is nearly no action between eating and those places wh ere there is are so cliche that seriously I don' recomand this position. It took me so long to read that, that I was asked if I am ok as for such a long time I didn't add anything to my library.
November 2, 2020
Only got to 29% of this book. Boring characters and no plot. It needed to get better before 29%.
January 16, 2022
Moje drugie spotkanie z twórczością Sue Roberts było dużo lepsze niż pierwsze, choć to nadal nie jest literatura najwyższych lotów.
"Moje bardzo włoskie wakacje" to książka przewidywalna, miejscami urocza aż do bólu i prosta w odbiorze. Nie lubię tego określenia, ale to taka typowo kobieca powieść obyczajowa z wątkiem romantycznym. Bohaterowie są nieco schematyczni, rzekłabym nawet, że tacy jakich nie brakuje w tego typu pozycjach. Ona jest Angielką i zbiera się do kupy po stracie męża a on jest bardzo przystojnym oraz bardzo bogatym Włochem. Ona jest towarzyska i ma wąskie grono przyjaciółek, on jest raczej typem człowieka zapracowanego. Brzmi tak, jakbym miała zaraz pojechać tej historii po całości i dać jej jedną gwiazdkę. No, ale nie moi drodzy! Mnie ta książka się nawet podobała, ona była tym, czego w tamtym momencie potrzebowałam. Lekką, przyjemną odskocznią od codziennej rzeczywistości. Książką niewymagającą, ale otulającą moje serducho.
Sue Roberts stworzyła w tej powieści bardzo miły, wioskowy wręcz klimat. Po pierwsze małe, typowo turystyczne miasteczko skąpane w deszczu, gdzieś w otoczeniu jezior i gór. Nasza bohaterka prowadzi przeuroczy pensjonat, jej siostra piecze smakowite ciasta a nieznośne dziecko obżera się Nutellą i źle się to kończy. Po drugie, przepięknie położona włoska miejscowość nad Jeziorem Como a w niej stara willa ze zwisającymi z sufitu żyrandolami. Do tego opisy jedzenia, od których aż cieknie ślinka i opisy przyrody takie, że aż człowiek chciałby spakować plecak i od razu tam pojechać. Szkoda tylko, że Włochy w tej historii pojawiają się bardzo późno. Byłam przekonana, że cała akcja będzie miała tam miejsce, bo tytuł może trochę na to wskazywać.
Komu polecam? Tym, którzy mają ochotę na coś naprawdę lekkiego z nutką podróży, dobrego jedzenia, rozmyślań na temat życia. No i miłości, bo tego tu oczywiście nie brakuje.
Nie sądziłam, że do tego dojdzie, ale daję aż 4 gwiazdki, choć gdybym to czytała w innym okresie, mogłabym dać co najwyżej 2 xd
"Moje bardzo włoskie wakacje" to książka przewidywalna, miejscami urocza aż do bólu i prosta w odbiorze. Nie lubię tego określenia, ale to taka typowo kobieca powieść obyczajowa z wątkiem romantycznym. Bohaterowie są nieco schematyczni, rzekłabym nawet, że tacy jakich nie brakuje w tego typu pozycjach. Ona jest Angielką i zbiera się do kupy po stracie męża a on jest bardzo przystojnym oraz bardzo bogatym Włochem. Ona jest towarzyska i ma wąskie grono przyjaciółek, on jest raczej typem człowieka zapracowanego. Brzmi tak, jakbym miała zaraz pojechać tej historii po całości i dać jej jedną gwiazdkę. No, ale nie moi drodzy! Mnie ta książka się nawet podobała, ona była tym, czego w tamtym momencie potrzebowałam. Lekką, przyjemną odskocznią od codziennej rzeczywistości. Książką niewymagającą, ale otulającą moje serducho.
Sue Roberts stworzyła w tej powieści bardzo miły, wioskowy wręcz klimat. Po pierwsze małe, typowo turystyczne miasteczko skąpane w deszczu, gdzieś w otoczeniu jezior i gór. Nasza bohaterka prowadzi przeuroczy pensjonat, jej siostra piecze smakowite ciasta a nieznośne dziecko obżera się Nutellą i źle się to kończy. Po drugie, przepięknie położona włoska miejscowość nad Jeziorem Como a w niej stara willa ze zwisającymi z sufitu żyrandolami. Do tego opisy jedzenia, od których aż cieknie ślinka i opisy przyrody takie, że aż człowiek chciałby spakować plecak i od razu tam pojechać. Szkoda tylko, że Włochy w tej historii pojawiają się bardzo późno. Byłam przekonana, że cała akcja będzie miała tam miejsce, bo tytuł może trochę na to wskazywać.
Komu polecam? Tym, którzy mają ochotę na coś naprawdę lekkiego z nutką podróży, dobrego jedzenia, rozmyślań na temat życia. No i miłości, bo tego tu oczywiście nie brakuje.
Nie sądziłam, że do tego dojdzie, ale daję aż 4 gwiazdki, choć gdybym to czytała w innym okresie, mogłabym dać co najwyżej 2 xd
July 28, 2018
Please see all of my reviews on my blog at www.robinlovesreading.blogspot.com
Gina has been widowed for two years now and is running a successful B&B in the Lake District. She is running her small hotel with her sister Hannah, although that was not her original plan, which was a dream she shared with her husband. She enjoys a variety of pleasant guests, but one guest, in just one short week, has truly touched her heart. Fabio stays at the guesthouse while visiting his uncle. She is surprised to hear that he himself has inherited a B&B of his own at his home in Italy. They communicate from time-to-time upon Fabio's return home, and eventually Gina decides to visit him.
I was quite touched by Gina's memories of her husband Adam, while allowing her heart to make room for Fabio. Her marriage was too short, but she has so much more life to live. She is rather surprised by her attraction to Fabio, well, except for the fact that he is drop-dead gorgeous. Fabio may be a bit of a flirt, but he knows what he wants, and that is Gina. Aside from the feelings the two are developing for one another, the fact they both own B&B's gives them a firmer foundation. From the Lake District in England to Lake Como in Italy, both locales provide beautiful pictures.
My Very Italian Holiday was a very engaging read, one that I devoured in just one sitting, as I truly enjoyed watching Gina and Fabio's relationship blossom. This delightful story had me laughing at times and also experiencing moments of sadness There was a wonderful sense of coming home in this story, for more than just Gina and Fabio, giving a sense of rightness to this sweet romance. I so love happy endings and was certainly not disappointed. For a quick, summer read, definitely pick this one up! I definitely look forward to reading much more from Sue Roberts.
Many thanks to Bookoture and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
Gina has been widowed for two years now and is running a successful B&B in the Lake District. She is running her small hotel with her sister Hannah, although that was not her original plan, which was a dream she shared with her husband. She enjoys a variety of pleasant guests, but one guest, in just one short week, has truly touched her heart. Fabio stays at the guesthouse while visiting his uncle. She is surprised to hear that he himself has inherited a B&B of his own at his home in Italy. They communicate from time-to-time upon Fabio's return home, and eventually Gina decides to visit him.
I was quite touched by Gina's memories of her husband Adam, while allowing her heart to make room for Fabio. Her marriage was too short, but she has so much more life to live. She is rather surprised by her attraction to Fabio, well, except for the fact that he is drop-dead gorgeous. Fabio may be a bit of a flirt, but he knows what he wants, and that is Gina. Aside from the feelings the two are developing for one another, the fact they both own B&B's gives them a firmer foundation. From the Lake District in England to Lake Como in Italy, both locales provide beautiful pictures.
My Very Italian Holiday was a very engaging read, one that I devoured in just one sitting, as I truly enjoyed watching Gina and Fabio's relationship blossom. This delightful story had me laughing at times and also experiencing moments of sadness There was a wonderful sense of coming home in this story, for more than just Gina and Fabio, giving a sense of rightness to this sweet romance. I so love happy endings and was certainly not disappointed. For a quick, summer read, definitely pick this one up! I definitely look forward to reading much more from Sue Roberts.
Many thanks to Bookoture and to NetGalley for this ARC to review in exchange for my honest opinion.
July 10, 2018
I found myself quickly involved with these characters. At first I thought Fabio was a little too formal in the relationship with Gina, but came to love how thoughtful he was. I was glad to see the relationship work out in end. Parallel to the two main characters, I liked how Gina’s parents were able to reconcile and gave each other a second chance. I thought this was a heartfelt romance novel that was well written and enjoyable to read!
*I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
*I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley and am voluntarily leaving a review.*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 3, 2018
Memories of a fabulous holiday
The last time I went to Lake Como , we stayed in Lecco and went to Varenna, had a lovely walk round either lots of photography. .we then caught the ferry to Bellagio .. and then ferry back to Lecco. Have been a few times. I felt just like Gina described... beautiful and fabulous views .. 😍😍 Never been to Ullswater though .. Italy is in my heart. 💖 Loved the book .
The last time I went to Lake Como , we stayed in Lecco and went to Varenna, had a lovely walk round either lots of photography. .we then caught the ferry to Bellagio .. and then ferry back to Lecco. Have been a few times. I felt just like Gina described... beautiful and fabulous views .. 😍😍 Never been to Ullswater though .. Italy is in my heart. 💖 Loved the book .
August 7, 2018
I found this book really enjoyable to read. There is nothing new or revolutionary to this book but still, I enjoyed this easy and light read. I was just a little surprised that we had to wait to be half of the book to be in Italy, by the Lake Como. For quite some time I was wondering if I was reading the wrong book which had the wrong title by mistake. But no no. So don't be surprised by this. I liked this book, I gave it a 4 stars but I didn't love it (it would be more a 3.7 stars ;-) ). It was not as exciting as I was hoping it would be but still I had an enjoyable time.
August 2, 2018
When I picked this book up, from the cover I assumed it was going to be a light, summery read but actually, it is not the usual beach read. The first half of the book is set in the Lake District and it does not move to Italy until fifty percent of the way through. The sojourn in Italy is then very brief before the action moves back to the Lake District so, if you are looking for a book set mostly in Italy, this is not the one for you.
That being said, there is a lot to enjoy in this book. I really enjoyed the descriptions of the Lake District, they really brought the place alive and took me back to holidays I have spent there. The main character, Gina, is a warm and likeable person with a sad past and it was easy to get drawn in to her story. I really liked the relationship that she has with her sister, Hannah. With three sisters of my own that I am very close to, I felt their relationship was very realistically portrayed. In fact, her whole family and friendship group were well drawn and interesting and gave a very warm and supportive back drop to Gina’s life. I really enjoyed the wonderful community set out in the book in Gina’s lakeside town.
When Fabio appears, I could see why Gina was drawn to him and the parts of the book set in Italy were beautifully described and make you want to travel there immediately. However, as pointed out in the opening paragraph, this is a short part of the book, and also the visit takes place in January rather than the summer so it might be a little different to what the reader is expecting from the cover and blurb, but I don’t think that matters too much. The premise behind the book is interesting, I really liked the idea of Gina travelling to Italy to help decorate Fabio’s hotel and the setting is wonderfully described. Gina’s trip with Fabio in to Milan was my favourite part of the book and the author does a wonderful job of portraying this beautiful city in the book.
However, there were a couple of points in the book that rankled slightly. I wasn’t 100% convinced by Gina’s reaction to her brief conversation with Fabio’s sister, or his sister’s motivations. I think this probably needed to be expanded more to be authentic but I understand this is a supposed to be a sweet summer read so that may not be too much of an issue for readers. The thing that really got my goat, although this may be the pedantic travel agent part of me, is the glaring geographical inaccuracies in the Italian section of the book which made me think no one who read this book before publication had looked at a map. I found them very distracting. So here is a plea to all authors, when you are setting a book in foreign climes, please check that the things you are having happen are geographically possible!
There is much to enjoy in this book. I like Sue Roberts voice, I think she is very good at building characters and relationships, and there is a real life and atmosphere in her descriptions of places. It’s a shame that there were a couple of points that let it down for me but I am sure that many readers will enjoy this book for what it is.
That being said, there is a lot to enjoy in this book. I really enjoyed the descriptions of the Lake District, they really brought the place alive and took me back to holidays I have spent there. The main character, Gina, is a warm and likeable person with a sad past and it was easy to get drawn in to her story. I really liked the relationship that she has with her sister, Hannah. With three sisters of my own that I am very close to, I felt their relationship was very realistically portrayed. In fact, her whole family and friendship group were well drawn and interesting and gave a very warm and supportive back drop to Gina’s life. I really enjoyed the wonderful community set out in the book in Gina’s lakeside town.
When Fabio appears, I could see why Gina was drawn to him and the parts of the book set in Italy were beautifully described and make you want to travel there immediately. However, as pointed out in the opening paragraph, this is a short part of the book, and also the visit takes place in January rather than the summer so it might be a little different to what the reader is expecting from the cover and blurb, but I don’t think that matters too much. The premise behind the book is interesting, I really liked the idea of Gina travelling to Italy to help decorate Fabio’s hotel and the setting is wonderfully described. Gina’s trip with Fabio in to Milan was my favourite part of the book and the author does a wonderful job of portraying this beautiful city in the book.
However, there were a couple of points in the book that rankled slightly. I wasn’t 100% convinced by Gina’s reaction to her brief conversation with Fabio’s sister, or his sister’s motivations. I think this probably needed to be expanded more to be authentic but I understand this is a supposed to be a sweet summer read so that may not be too much of an issue for readers. The thing that really got my goat, although this may be the pedantic travel agent part of me, is the glaring geographical inaccuracies in the Italian section of the book which made me think no one who read this book before publication had looked at a map. I found them very distracting. So here is a plea to all authors, when you are setting a book in foreign climes, please check that the things you are having happen are geographically possible!
There is much to enjoy in this book. I like Sue Roberts voice, I think she is very good at building characters and relationships, and there is a real life and atmosphere in her descriptions of places. It’s a shame that there were a couple of points that let it down for me but I am sure that many readers will enjoy this book for what it is.
August 18, 2019
Recensione presente nel blog www.ragazzainrosso.wordpress.com
Gina gestisce assieme alla sorella Hannah un bed and breakfast sul Lake District, un’attività, questa, che la colma di soddisfazione. La vita della donna, però, non è affatto semplice. Costretta a riprendere in mano le redini della sua esistenza dopo la morte del marito Adam, ha trovato un equilibrio precario rifugiandosi nel lavoro e chiudendo la porta a qualunque occasione di svago. L’arrivo improvviso di Fabio Garcia nel b&b sembra farle riaccendere la scintilla. L’uomo, che ha ereditato un albergo in Italia, sul lago di Como, la invita a soggiornare da lui per avere qualche consiglio in materia di gestione. Gina è scettica, poi si lascia convincere dagli amici e decide di concedersi una vacanza, dopotutto non può che farle bene.
“Certe volte bisogna lasciare che la vita segua il suo corso naturale.”
I b&b hanno il loro fascino, ammettiamolo. Danno un’idea di ambiente sereno, familiare, umano, dove si può conversare tranquillamente e scambiarsi consigli. Se poi questo sorge in una piccola cittadina con un paesaggio idilliaco e poca gente che si conosce tutta contribuisce a rendere il tutto emblema del relax.
Gina è una donna che ha imparato a sopravvivere e ad andare avanti. È partita dal niente avendo come alleato il solo appoggio del marito e in poco tempo si è ritrovata da sola a gestire un’attività e l’elaborazione del lutto. Pur non essendo presente fisicamente, Adam è più vivo che mai. Gina ha con lui un legame che va oltre l’affetto, lo sente vicino, presente e in nome di quell’Amore speciale vive costantemente chiusa in se stessa trascorrendo le giornate tra lunghe ore nel b&b e serate a casa.
L’incontro con Fabio, aitante italiano, le provoca emozioni che credeva ormai dimenticate. Basta poco per essere nuovamente felice, eppure Gina si blocca, teme di fare un torto all’uomo che ha amato con tutta se stessa mentre non si rende conto quanto questo evento fortuito possa essere per lei terapeutico.
Ottime sono le descrizioni dei luoghi, specie quelli italiani. L’autrice cura non solo gli elementi del paesaggio ma si focalizza anche sugli usi e costumi rendendo la narrazione molto più concreta.
La prosa è semplice e fluida, trascina il lettore pagina dopo pagina e gli regala sani momenti di evasione.
Un romanzo dalla componente psicologica piacevole e ben scritto. Una lettura dolce con una protagonista in grado di riservare sorprese.
Gina gestisce assieme alla sorella Hannah un bed and breakfast sul Lake District, un’attività, questa, che la colma di soddisfazione. La vita della donna, però, non è affatto semplice. Costretta a riprendere in mano le redini della sua esistenza dopo la morte del marito Adam, ha trovato un equilibrio precario rifugiandosi nel lavoro e chiudendo la porta a qualunque occasione di svago. L’arrivo improvviso di Fabio Garcia nel b&b sembra farle riaccendere la scintilla. L’uomo, che ha ereditato un albergo in Italia, sul lago di Como, la invita a soggiornare da lui per avere qualche consiglio in materia di gestione. Gina è scettica, poi si lascia convincere dagli amici e decide di concedersi una vacanza, dopotutto non può che farle bene.
“Certe volte bisogna lasciare che la vita segua il suo corso naturale.”
I b&b hanno il loro fascino, ammettiamolo. Danno un’idea di ambiente sereno, familiare, umano, dove si può conversare tranquillamente e scambiarsi consigli. Se poi questo sorge in una piccola cittadina con un paesaggio idilliaco e poca gente che si conosce tutta contribuisce a rendere il tutto emblema del relax.
Gina è una donna che ha imparato a sopravvivere e ad andare avanti. È partita dal niente avendo come alleato il solo appoggio del marito e in poco tempo si è ritrovata da sola a gestire un’attività e l’elaborazione del lutto. Pur non essendo presente fisicamente, Adam è più vivo che mai. Gina ha con lui un legame che va oltre l’affetto, lo sente vicino, presente e in nome di quell’Amore speciale vive costantemente chiusa in se stessa trascorrendo le giornate tra lunghe ore nel b&b e serate a casa.
L’incontro con Fabio, aitante italiano, le provoca emozioni che credeva ormai dimenticate. Basta poco per essere nuovamente felice, eppure Gina si blocca, teme di fare un torto all’uomo che ha amato con tutta se stessa mentre non si rende conto quanto questo evento fortuito possa essere per lei terapeutico.
Ottime sono le descrizioni dei luoghi, specie quelli italiani. L’autrice cura non solo gli elementi del paesaggio ma si focalizza anche sugli usi e costumi rendendo la narrazione molto più concreta.
La prosa è semplice e fluida, trascina il lettore pagina dopo pagina e gli regala sani momenti di evasione.
Un romanzo dalla componente psicologica piacevole e ben scritto. Una lettura dolce con una protagonista in grado di riservare sorprese.
February 21, 2020
Terribly written and poorly conceived. I could only get to page 57 before giving up, and it was a struggle the whole time.
August 5, 2018
I absolutely adored reading Sue Roberts’ debut novel ‘My Big Greek Summer’ and I couldn’t wait until she released another book. When I heard that Sue was due to release another book, I became a tad excited and even did a happy dance, which was thankfully only witnessed by my two Labradors. Anyway I digress so back to the review I do go. I was so looking forward to reading ‘My Very Italian Holiday’ and I was not to be disappointed. I absolutely LOVED, no make that ADORED reading it, but more about that in a bit.
I couldn’t help but take to Gina. She owns a bed and breakfast in the beautiful Lake District. She did run it with her husband Adam but he sadly passed away. It’s certainly true to say that she is still grieving and she has thrown herself into her work to keep her busy. I did wonder if she was trying to avoid accepting the truth that her husband was never going to come back. Gina has a fantastic support network going on with family members and friends. It’s only fairly recently that Gina has started to go out and socialise more and she is gradually starting to realise that she has to build a new life for herself. It’s not that she didn’t love Adam because that couldn’t be further from the truth, but she realises that for her own sake she needs to look forward and not backwards. She even begins to contemplate the idea of falling in love again, although to start with she feels disloyal to Adam’s memory. Gina is one strong, nice, kind, warm hearted, bright, determined and optimistic individual who will do anything for anybody and is there for her friends and family if they need her. Will Gina find happiness? Will Gina stay in Cumbria or move to Italy? Will Gina fall in love again? Well for the answers to those questions and more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out because I am not going to tell you.
As with Sue’s first book ‘My Big Greek Summer’ I was hooked on ‘My Very Italian Holiday’ from the moment I picked the book up, never mind began to read. I just knew that I would be in for one hell of a read and that’s exactly what happened. I became addicted to reading it and I binge read the book over the space of a couple of days. My intention had been to ration how much I read in one sitting because I didn’t want to finish the book too early, but that intention soon went out of the window. I was so addicted to the story, to the characters and to the places that appear in the book that I just couldn’t stop turning the pages. In fact the more I read, the more I got into the story and the quicker the pages were turning. I usually have the attention span of a gnat but not in this case because my sole focus was on this book and I was able to shut out all other distractions. When I had to put the book down, I was already counting down the time until I could pick it up again and as for sleep – well I decided that sleep is for wimps and I stayed up reading the book until the early hours of the morning.
‘My Very Italian Holiday’ is extremely well written with realistic and charismatic characters, beautiful locations and a strong story.‘My Very Italian Holiday’ has the perfect mix for a book – there’s drama, there’s heartache, there’s romance with a generous helping of humour. There were certain moments that made me laugh out loud and I got some strange looks on the bus for it. Oops.
To conclude, I absolutely ADORED this book and I can’t wait to read what Sue comes up with next. I cannot recommend this author and her books highly enough. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
I couldn’t help but take to Gina. She owns a bed and breakfast in the beautiful Lake District. She did run it with her husband Adam but he sadly passed away. It’s certainly true to say that she is still grieving and she has thrown herself into her work to keep her busy. I did wonder if she was trying to avoid accepting the truth that her husband was never going to come back. Gina has a fantastic support network going on with family members and friends. It’s only fairly recently that Gina has started to go out and socialise more and she is gradually starting to realise that she has to build a new life for herself. It’s not that she didn’t love Adam because that couldn’t be further from the truth, but she realises that for her own sake she needs to look forward and not backwards. She even begins to contemplate the idea of falling in love again, although to start with she feels disloyal to Adam’s memory. Gina is one strong, nice, kind, warm hearted, bright, determined and optimistic individual who will do anything for anybody and is there for her friends and family if they need her. Will Gina find happiness? Will Gina stay in Cumbria or move to Italy? Will Gina fall in love again? Well for the answers to those questions and more you are just going to have to read the book for yourselves to find out because I am not going to tell you.
As with Sue’s first book ‘My Big Greek Summer’ I was hooked on ‘My Very Italian Holiday’ from the moment I picked the book up, never mind began to read. I just knew that I would be in for one hell of a read and that’s exactly what happened. I became addicted to reading it and I binge read the book over the space of a couple of days. My intention had been to ration how much I read in one sitting because I didn’t want to finish the book too early, but that intention soon went out of the window. I was so addicted to the story, to the characters and to the places that appear in the book that I just couldn’t stop turning the pages. In fact the more I read, the more I got into the story and the quicker the pages were turning. I usually have the attention span of a gnat but not in this case because my sole focus was on this book and I was able to shut out all other distractions. When I had to put the book down, I was already counting down the time until I could pick it up again and as for sleep – well I decided that sleep is for wimps and I stayed up reading the book until the early hours of the morning.
‘My Very Italian Holiday’ is extremely well written with realistic and charismatic characters, beautiful locations and a strong story.‘My Very Italian Holiday’ has the perfect mix for a book – there’s drama, there’s heartache, there’s romance with a generous helping of humour. There were certain moments that made me laugh out loud and I got some strange looks on the bus for it. Oops.
To conclude, I absolutely ADORED this book and I can’t wait to read what Sue comes up with next. I cannot recommend this author and her books highly enough. The score on the Ginger Book Geek board is a very well deserved 5* out of 5*.
July 25, 2018
Gina runs a charming B & B in the Lake District after the death of her husband Adam. It had originally been their idea to run it together however after the tragic events her sister Hannah stepped in and helped build the business into a success. The B & B is set in a lovely village with a close knit community. Although everyone seems to know each other’s business, they are also there in times of need.
I really liked the relationship between Gina and her sister. They clearly love working and living together, often teasing each other in only a way two sisters can. They are also very proud of the business and will go that extra bit further to make each stay a success…. Nothing is too much, not even the odd bit of babysitting. You have to love Gina’s friend Katy, a bit of a live wire she will quite often say what she is thinking (usually when there is a little help from alcohol) but no one stays mad at her for long.
When Fabio comes to visit his uncle who runs the local Italian restaurant he ends up having to stay at the B & B due to some flooding in the village. Initially he is a bit standoffish but eventually he warms to Gina and even shares his hopes and plans for the B & B he inherited back home in Italy. They soon become firm friends but Gina seems to be fighting the possibility of it becoming anything more, not because of her husband but more out of a sense of duty to her family.
Despite getting through nearly half the book before Gina actually visits Italy I found that I was enjoying the descriptions of the Lake District and the lives of the residents. Sue Roberts manages to describe the surroundings in such a way that makes you want to go and visit. When Gina goes to visit Fabio in Italy once again she sets the scene of Lake Como that has you believing you are there.
My Very Italian Holiday is a wonderful story of family and second chances at love that will also have you laughing along the way. One of my favourite parts involved a bucking bronco and some flying false teeth. This is definitely one to be packed to enjoy while on holiday.
I really liked the relationship between Gina and her sister. They clearly love working and living together, often teasing each other in only a way two sisters can. They are also very proud of the business and will go that extra bit further to make each stay a success…. Nothing is too much, not even the odd bit of babysitting. You have to love Gina’s friend Katy, a bit of a live wire she will quite often say what she is thinking (usually when there is a little help from alcohol) but no one stays mad at her for long.
When Fabio comes to visit his uncle who runs the local Italian restaurant he ends up having to stay at the B & B due to some flooding in the village. Initially he is a bit standoffish but eventually he warms to Gina and even shares his hopes and plans for the B & B he inherited back home in Italy. They soon become firm friends but Gina seems to be fighting the possibility of it becoming anything more, not because of her husband but more out of a sense of duty to her family.
Despite getting through nearly half the book before Gina actually visits Italy I found that I was enjoying the descriptions of the Lake District and the lives of the residents. Sue Roberts manages to describe the surroundings in such a way that makes you want to go and visit. When Gina goes to visit Fabio in Italy once again she sets the scene of Lake Como that has you believing you are there.
My Very Italian Holiday is a wonderful story of family and second chances at love that will also have you laughing along the way. One of my favourite parts involved a bucking bronco and some flying false teeth. This is definitely one to be packed to enjoy while on holiday.
June 3, 2020
My Very Italian Holiday by Sue Roberts is a story with at least three couple happy endings. Which is good both in real and literary lives. Who´s keen to experience or read about drama and heartbreak and missed loved and opportunities?
Gina is managing together with her sister a B&B in the Lake District, in England. Two years after the accidental death of her husband, she is still mourning him and another relationship was out of plan. Until she crossed paths with the handsome Fabio who is visiting from Italy. The story between the two of them is developing one trip at a time. Personally, I would have expected more communication between the two before they really fell in love, especially regarding his past relationships but maybe things in real life are easier and simpler. However, the presence of a certain ex- in Fabio´s life, he did not mention, almost broke the new relationship but all is well when finish well. And the happy ending was not only for Gina, but also for her sister that found the love of her life. Their parents decided to give a new chance to their relationship, so count at least another happy couple until the end of the story.
Overall, My Very Italian Holiday is a really feel good book, an enjoyable and positive kind of read. Like all those simple things that we need in life to enjoy and nurture the hope for good things that maybe are about to happen.
Disclaimer: Book offered by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Gina is managing together with her sister a B&B in the Lake District, in England. Two years after the accidental death of her husband, she is still mourning him and another relationship was out of plan. Until she crossed paths with the handsome Fabio who is visiting from Italy. The story between the two of them is developing one trip at a time. Personally, I would have expected more communication between the two before they really fell in love, especially regarding his past relationships but maybe things in real life are easier and simpler. However, the presence of a certain ex- in Fabio´s life, he did not mention, almost broke the new relationship but all is well when finish well. And the happy ending was not only for Gina, but also for her sister that found the love of her life. Their parents decided to give a new chance to their relationship, so count at least another happy couple until the end of the story.
Overall, My Very Italian Holiday is a really feel good book, an enjoyable and positive kind of read. Like all those simple things that we need in life to enjoy and nurture the hope for good things that maybe are about to happen.
Disclaimer: Book offered by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
September 4, 2025
Il libro di per se non è neanche tanto male, sebbene la storia non mi abbia coivolto più di tanto. I personaggi principali sono senza infamia e senza lode. Funzionano ma senza richiedere chissà quale impegno. La storia si basa un po' per tutti i personaggi sul dare una seconda possibilità all'amore e questo va anche bene, quello che non ho assolutamente apprezzato è la completa inattendibilità dell'italianità del libro.
Voglio dire, vuoi scrivere un libro ambientato in Italia? Almeno vai a leggere le ricette di cui scrivi. Ci fosse stato uno, e dico uno, dei piatti che l'autrice nomina che fosse stato davvero italiano.
LE TAGLIATELLE CON GLI STRACCETTI DI VITELLO O L'ACQUA CON LE FETTINE DI LIMONE NELLE CARAFFE AL RISTORANTE. Dove, come ma sopratutto perchè? PERCHE'?!
Insomma ogni scena al ristorante è stata un colpo alla cucina italiana.
Poi vabbe la protagonista inglese che parla con altri personaggi come se in Italia non si parlasse un'altra lingua, e sottolineo che non parla ne capisce l'italiano. Il muro delle lingue viene completamente abbattuto tranne sul finale dove ci ricordiamo che forse lei in effetti l'italiano ne lo parla ne lo capisce e il suo fidanzato italiano deve farle da interprete... meglio tardi che mai.
Insomma... date agli italiani quello che è degli italiani, ma gli straccetti di vitello sulle tagliatelle, NO.
Voglio dire, vuoi scrivere un libro ambientato in Italia? Almeno vai a leggere le ricette di cui scrivi. Ci fosse stato uno, e dico uno, dei piatti che l'autrice nomina che fosse stato davvero italiano.
LE TAGLIATELLE CON GLI STRACCETTI DI VITELLO O L'ACQUA CON LE FETTINE DI LIMONE NELLE CARAFFE AL RISTORANTE. Dove, come ma sopratutto perchè? PERCHE'?!
Insomma ogni scena al ristorante è stata un colpo alla cucina italiana.
Poi vabbe la protagonista inglese che parla con altri personaggi come se in Italia non si parlasse un'altra lingua, e sottolineo che non parla ne capisce l'italiano. Il muro delle lingue viene completamente abbattuto tranne sul finale dove ci ricordiamo che forse lei in effetti l'italiano ne lo parla ne lo capisce e il suo fidanzato italiano deve farle da interprete... meglio tardi che mai.
Insomma... date agli italiani quello che è degli italiani, ma gli straccetti di vitello sulle tagliatelle, NO.
February 1, 2019
Originally reviewed at Novel Escapes
I wasn't entirely invested in this novel. Parts of it appealed to me though- particularly the relationship between the sisters and Gina and her parents. But I was a bit on the fence about the romantic aspect of the story. I didn't much feel the bond and so the whole premise of her going to Italy and finding her way didn't have me feeling much of anything which left out half the novel's storyline.
Gina is clearly trying out her renewed interest in relationships having lost her husband and while I applaud the attempt to investigate romance after losing a partner it was just too forced for me. I would have preferred to see her build up her business further or find more depth in her friendships while dating with a new lease on life.
I was also a bit disappointed in her girlfriends. They weren't as developed as I would have liked and when they were introduced here and there we were given a bit of info that was intriguing but not really followed through- which became an added frustration.
So....while aspects of this novel appealed I'm afraid is wasn't a total hit for me.
Thank you to Bookouture for our review copy. All opinions are our own.
I wasn't entirely invested in this novel. Parts of it appealed to me though- particularly the relationship between the sisters and Gina and her parents. But I was a bit on the fence about the romantic aspect of the story. I didn't much feel the bond and so the whole premise of her going to Italy and finding her way didn't have me feeling much of anything which left out half the novel's storyline.
Gina is clearly trying out her renewed interest in relationships having lost her husband and while I applaud the attempt to investigate romance after losing a partner it was just too forced for me. I would have preferred to see her build up her business further or find more depth in her friendships while dating with a new lease on life.
I was also a bit disappointed in her girlfriends. They weren't as developed as I would have liked and when they were introduced here and there we were given a bit of info that was intriguing but not really followed through- which became an added frustration.
So....while aspects of this novel appealed I'm afraid is wasn't a total hit for me.
Thank you to Bookouture for our review copy. All opinions are our own.
April 19, 2023
Gina, dopo aver perso il marito in un tragico incidente, sta cercando di rimettere insieme i pezzi della sua vita. Supportata dalla sorella Hannan manda avanti il suo Bed & Breakfast sul lago Ullswater. La sua vita prosegue tranquilla tra gli ospiti del b&b e le sue amiche, sino a quando non conosce Fabio e tra i due scocca la scintilla, ma lui vive in Italia e sta rimodernando un hotel sul lago di Como. Approfondiranno ancora di più la loro conoscenza quando lui la invita da lui in vacanza.
Nonostante la trama sia abbastanza accattivante ho trovato questo romanzo molto noioso. Non sono riuscita a immedesimarmi nella protagonista ne negli altri personaggi. La storia tra Fabio e Gina non è riuscita a trasmettermi nessuna emozione, anzi ho apprezzato molto di più quella tra Hannan e Greg che è praticamente rimasta sullo sfondo.
Nonostante la difficoltà nel terminare questo libro ho apprezzato il messaggio di speranza che traspare, perché nonostante il dolore immenso della protagonista è riuscita ad andare avanti, e a trovare la felicità nonostante la tragedia vissuta.
Purtroppo non lo consiglio perché a me personalmente non ha preso.
M.B.
Nonostante la trama sia abbastanza accattivante ho trovato questo romanzo molto noioso. Non sono riuscita a immedesimarmi nella protagonista ne negli altri personaggi. La storia tra Fabio e Gina non è riuscita a trasmettermi nessuna emozione, anzi ho apprezzato molto di più quella tra Hannan e Greg che è praticamente rimasta sullo sfondo.
Nonostante la difficoltà nel terminare questo libro ho apprezzato il messaggio di speranza che traspare, perché nonostante il dolore immenso della protagonista è riuscita ad andare avanti, e a trovare la felicità nonostante la tragedia vissuta.
Purtroppo non lo consiglio perché a me personalmente non ha preso.
M.B.
July 22, 2018
ARC in exchange for an honest review
Gina runs a B&B in England, in the Lake District. Years ago, he lost her husband, but her sister, Hanna, and her friends make her smile and enjoy life.
One day, at her B&B arrives Fabio, a gorgeous Italian who want runs an hotel on Lake Como. So, to help Fabio, Gina goes to Italy...
I would like to give this novel better than 2 stars, but I can't... The title make me imagine a lot of Italy, instead Italy comes well past halfway... And here too there is nothing else than a little of the profound beauty of Italy... Lake Como is one of the most beautiful place in the world, but it is not talked about...
Anyway, this is a fun novel, that gives you lovely hours and hope, even if you think that it's not possible...
Gina runs a B&B in England, in the Lake District. Years ago, he lost her husband, but her sister, Hanna, and her friends make her smile and enjoy life.
One day, at her B&B arrives Fabio, a gorgeous Italian who want runs an hotel on Lake Como. So, to help Fabio, Gina goes to Italy...
I would like to give this novel better than 2 stars, but I can't... The title make me imagine a lot of Italy, instead Italy comes well past halfway... And here too there is nothing else than a little of the profound beauty of Italy... Lake Como is one of the most beautiful place in the world, but it is not talked about...
Anyway, this is a fun novel, that gives you lovely hours and hope, even if you think that it's not possible...
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