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Den italienska olivlunden
Escape to Italy with THE OLIVE BRANCH. The irresistibly romantic new novel from Jo Thomas, award-winning author of ebook runaway bestseller THE OYSTER CATCHER.
It's amazing what you can buy online these days:
Memorabilia
Fashion accessories
A crumbling Italian farmhouse...
After a Prosecco-fuelled girls' night in gets out of hand, Ruthie Collins awakes to discover that she has bid for her dream Italian home online - and won. Recently out of a relationship, a new start is just what Ruthie needs. Anything is better than sleeping on her mum's settee.
But arriving in Southern Italy, Ruthie doesn't know the first thing about running an olive farm. And with new neighbours, the tempestuous Marco Bellanouvo and his fiery family to contend with, all Ruthie wants is to go back home.
Life can change with the click of a mouse. But all good things - friendship, romance, and even the olive harvest - take time to grow. Can Ruthie finally put the past to rest and find her own piece of the Dolce Vita along the way?
It's amazing what you can buy online these days:
Memorabilia
Fashion accessories
A crumbling Italian farmhouse...
After a Prosecco-fuelled girls' night in gets out of hand, Ruthie Collins awakes to discover that she has bid for her dream Italian home online - and won. Recently out of a relationship, a new start is just what Ruthie needs. Anything is better than sleeping on her mum's settee.
But arriving in Southern Italy, Ruthie doesn't know the first thing about running an olive farm. And with new neighbours, the tempestuous Marco Bellanouvo and his fiery family to contend with, all Ruthie wants is to go back home.
Life can change with the click of a mouse. But all good things - friendship, romance, and even the olive harvest - take time to grow. Can Ruthie finally put the past to rest and find her own piece of the Dolce Vita along the way?
412 pages, Hardcover
First published March 26, 2015
401 people are currently reading
1938 people want to read
About the author
Jo Thomas
60 books533 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 271 reviews
September 1, 2020
OmG, this book! I can’t even find the words to describe how much I loved it.
I know it’ll probably sound stupid, but I’ll say it anyway: This book made my life more beautiful.
It really did. So many times while reading I had that warm, comfortable feeling only few books can give you, and after finishing it I just wanted to hug it for a while. So I did. And to be completely honest, I don’t recall when was the last time I had a need to literally hug a book.
And that, my friends, is the reason The Olive Branch found the spot in my All-Time-Favorite-Books list.
The story follows Ruthie who buys herself a new Italian home. Once she arrives to her new place, she finds out it is not easy to live alone in a big house, with a huge estate and a goat who lives there, especially when your neighbours don’t want you there, because your estate belonged to them for decades, and they still consider it as theirs.
The Olive Branch is a book full of positive vibes, lovely feelings, sunshine and food.
I feel like it could make anyone’s day at least a bit better.
As a matter of fact, it should be prescribed as a cure to anyone who is in a poor mood or had a bad day. That’s how lovely this novel is.
The story itself is great and beautiful, but what also makes this book perfect is Jo Thomas’ skill to write.
I flew through this book, and my reading speed accelerated dramatically: from cca 30 to 50 pages per hour, which is HUGE.
I think that the main reason for that is how great the writing style actually was. I know I said many times in my reviews that the writing style pulled me in and didn’t let go, and I could say it again here, but only imagine it 5 times stronger.
Like, the story didn’t pull me in, it grabbed me and I couldn’t get out until I finished the last page (and now I’m rambling).
I loved so many things about this book. How fun it was, how beautifully the nature was described, how good people in the story actually were, and how animals also had their role, especially Daisy.
I am so thankful that I had a chance to read Jo Thomas’ books this year. This summer I read her last published book Sunset Over the Cherry Orchard and I loved it so much, I knew I wanted to read more of her work.
Now when I finished The Olive Branch and loved it even more, I want to read everything she wrote.
I was lucky enough to receive her newest book A Winter Beneath the Stars that will be published in December, and I also ordered myself three of her books that were published previously.
I can’t wait to dive into all of them!
Overall, The Olive Branch is my favorite book that I’ve read this year so far and I would recommend it to everyone.
I know it’ll probably sound stupid, but I’ll say it anyway: This book made my life more beautiful.
It really did. So many times while reading I had that warm, comfortable feeling only few books can give you, and after finishing it I just wanted to hug it for a while. So I did. And to be completely honest, I don’t recall when was the last time I had a need to literally hug a book.
And that, my friends, is the reason The Olive Branch found the spot in my All-Time-Favorite-Books list.
The story follows Ruthie who buys herself a new Italian home. Once she arrives to her new place, she finds out it is not easy to live alone in a big house, with a huge estate and a goat who lives there, especially when your neighbours don’t want you there, because your estate belonged to them for decades, and they still consider it as theirs.
The Olive Branch is a book full of positive vibes, lovely feelings, sunshine and food.
I feel like it could make anyone’s day at least a bit better.
As a matter of fact, it should be prescribed as a cure to anyone who is in a poor mood or had a bad day. That’s how lovely this novel is.
The story itself is great and beautiful, but what also makes this book perfect is Jo Thomas’ skill to write.
I flew through this book, and my reading speed accelerated dramatically: from cca 30 to 50 pages per hour, which is HUGE.
I think that the main reason for that is how great the writing style actually was. I know I said many times in my reviews that the writing style pulled me in and didn’t let go, and I could say it again here, but only imagine it 5 times stronger.
Like, the story didn’t pull me in, it grabbed me and I couldn’t get out until I finished the last page (and now I’m rambling).
I loved so many things about this book. How fun it was, how beautifully the nature was described, how good people in the story actually were, and how animals also had their role, especially Daisy.
I am so thankful that I had a chance to read Jo Thomas’ books this year. This summer I read her last published book Sunset Over the Cherry Orchard and I loved it so much, I knew I wanted to read more of her work.
Now when I finished The Olive Branch and loved it even more, I want to read everything she wrote.
I was lucky enough to receive her newest book A Winter Beneath the Stars that will be published in December, and I also ordered myself three of her books that were published previously.
I can’t wait to dive into all of them!
Overall, The Olive Branch is my favorite book that I’ve read this year so far and I would recommend it to everyone.
August 20, 2020
От ледената Лапландия, Джо Томас ни пренася в горещата Пулия.
Това , което ме изумява е , как е успяла да влезе до съвършенство в детайлите, начина на живот,традициите, до степен да почувстваш всяко едно преживяване на героите.
Нямам идея как го прави, но на места имах чувството , че съм се пренесла там.
Другото, което много ми хареса е идеята , че обединени можем да постигнем всичко, идеята за еднинно семейство. Това са нещата , които стоплят моето сърце и които, за съжаление, напоследък по нашите ширини не се забелязва.
Книгата ми напомни за едни времена , в които това се случваше точно по този начин , по който е описано.
Има какво да направи още за стила си на писане и особено за диалозите, но е приятна за четене.
Това , което ме изумява е , как е успяла да влезе до съвършенство в детайлите, начина на живот,традициите, до степен да почувстваш всяко едно преживяване на героите.
Нямам идея как го прави, но на места имах чувството , че съм се пренесла там.
Другото, което много ми хареса е идеята , че обединени можем да постигнем всичко, идеята за еднинно семейство. Това са нещата , които стоплят моето сърце и които, за съжаление, напоследък по нашите ширини не се забелязва.
Книгата ми напомни за едни времена , в които това се случваше точно по този начин , по който е описано.
Има какво да направи още за стила си на писане и особено за диалозите, но е приятна за четене.
October 31, 2025
3.5⭐️ = Quite Good.
Audio.
This was quite enjoyable. An easy to read, inoffensive type of book. The Italian setting was pleasant and I think this would make a good accompaniment to a crisp glass of wine, whilst on holiday.
Audio.
This was quite enjoyable. An easy to read, inoffensive type of book. The Italian setting was pleasant and I think this would make a good accompaniment to a crisp glass of wine, whilst on holiday.
May 25, 2015
Ruthie decided to buy a farmhouse on ebay. It’s in Italy and she hasn’t seen it beforehand- but she wants to escape her present life for a totally fresh start.
But when she arrives it is pouring with rain and she wonders what she has done buying an olive farm she knows nothing about. It needs a lot of work and it’s a bit daunting for her.
The Italian landscape is described beautifully and makes you want to be a part of the story. Her neighbours have a feud where the house has been sold without their knowledge. One wants to buy the house back for les than she paid for it- which makes her determined to make a success of the crop!
A hint of a romance, the heat and the outside living makes this book so appealing. Buy a copy for the summer evenings out in the garden with a huge glass of wine- Bliss!
I now can’t wait to look out for her first book.
Many thanks to the publisher and netgalley for a copy of this one.
But when she arrives it is pouring with rain and she wonders what she has done buying an olive farm she knows nothing about. It needs a lot of work and it’s a bit daunting for her.
The Italian landscape is described beautifully and makes you want to be a part of the story. Her neighbours have a feud where the house has been sold without their knowledge. One wants to buy the house back for les than she paid for it- which makes her determined to make a success of the crop!
A hint of a romance, the heat and the outside living makes this book so appealing. Buy a copy for the summer evenings out in the garden with a huge glass of wine- Bliss!
I now can’t wait to look out for her first book.
Many thanks to the publisher and netgalley for a copy of this one.
January 31, 2025
Книга за новото начало, където козата Дафни ми хареса повече от героите. :)
Сюжетът следва обичайните ситуации, както в чиклитите.
Рути купува къща в Италия с едно кликване в интернет и заминава в новия си дом. Наскоро се е разделила с гаджето си, няма постоянна работа и бъдещето ѝ е несигурно. Разчита на италианската къща и да устрои живота си там. Естествено, нищо не е както трябва и уреждането на новия живот е трудно.
Обградена е от враждебно семейство, което не е доволно, че чужденка е купила техен имот. Работата по къщата е тежка, а спестяванията няма да стигнат за цялостен ремонт. Наблизо се навърта и Марко, който я следи изкъсо и иска да откупи обратно къщата на дядо си.
Рути ще преживее тежки моменти, но мрачния и навъсен Марко изведнъж ще се втурне да ѝ помогне, а тя постепенно ще намери приятели и ще успее да преодолее културните различия, за да се впише в общността на местните.
Книгата не е лоша, описва италианския начин на живот, храната, производството на зехтин, красотите на един селски живот. Героите не ми допаднаха като характери.
Рути беше несигурна за всичко и постоянно се определяше като глупава. За мен тя не израсна като герой. До последно продължаваше да се срива, отдръпва, да изпитва несигурност и да се притеснява от действията си. Някои ситуации с нея ми се сториха преувеличени.
Марко ми беше някак встрани, за него нямам конкретно мнение.
Докато козата Дафни си беше като куче и пазеше цялата ферма, грижеше се за двете кокошки и си играеше с малките котенца.
Сюжетът следва обичайните ситуации, както в чиклитите.
Рути купува къща в Италия с едно кликване в интернет и заминава в новия си дом. Наскоро се е разделила с гаджето си, няма постоянна работа и бъдещето ѝ е несигурно. Разчита на италианската къща и да устрои живота си там. Естествено, нищо не е както трябва и уреждането на новия живот е трудно.
Обградена е от враждебно семейство, което не е доволно, че чужденка е купила техен имот. Работата по къщата е тежка, а спестяванията няма да стигнат за цялостен ремонт. Наблизо се навърта и Марко, който я следи изкъсо и иска да откупи обратно къщата на дядо си.
Рути ще преживее тежки моменти, но мрачния и навъсен Марко изведнъж ще се втурне да ѝ помогне, а тя постепенно ще намери приятели и ще успее да преодолее културните различия, за да се впише в общността на местните.
Книгата не е лоша, описва италианския начин на живот, храната, производството на зехтин, красотите на един селски живот. Героите не ми допаднаха като характери.
Рути беше несигурна за всичко и постоянно се определяше като глупава. За мен тя не израсна като герой. До последно продължаваше да се срива, отдръпва, да изпитва несигурност и да се притеснява от действията си. Някои ситуации с нея ми се сториха преувеличени.
Марко ми беше някак встрани, за него нямам конкретно мнение.
Докато козата Дафни си беше като куче и пазеше цялата ферма, грижеше се за двете кокошки и си играеше с малките котенца.
June 28, 2017
« A bit of sun and dolce vita is exactly what you need ». But settling abroad is not as simple or easy as one might think. Actually, even if you’re settling in some kind of paradise, it «isn’t all as rosy as it looks. You can’t run away from your problems; they follow you wherever you go ».
In spite of the dramatic change in her life and lifestyle, the feeling of loneliness that comes with, and the hostility of her neighbors, Ruthie will succeed to adapt herself to her new environment and will run the Bellanuovo estate; she will renovate and restore her newly acquired property, she will learn how to harvest olives and, against all odds, she will harvest them in time. Hence, she will get the support of the local community. But in matters of love things will not come so easily; if she falls for Marco, her fiery neighbor seems to be more concerned about one thing and one thing only: to recover possession of his family’s land and property, which are now Ruthie’s.
But don’t worry: Marco admires Ruthie for her courage, her determination... and (of course) he fell for her; yes, he loves (and admires) her, from the bottom of his heart!
‘The Olive Branch’ is a lovely book; beyond the love story, it depicts a courageous woman who overcomes her fears… and adversity.
« Olives and romance might just flourish in the warmth of the Mediterranean Sea».
In spite of the dramatic change in her life and lifestyle, the feeling of loneliness that comes with, and the hostility of her neighbors, Ruthie will succeed to adapt herself to her new environment and will run the Bellanuovo estate; she will renovate and restore her newly acquired property, she will learn how to harvest olives and, against all odds, she will harvest them in time. Hence, she will get the support of the local community. But in matters of love things will not come so easily; if she falls for Marco, her fiery neighbor seems to be more concerned about one thing and one thing only: to recover possession of his family’s land and property, which are now Ruthie’s.
But don’t worry: Marco admires Ruthie for her courage, her determination... and (of course) he fell for her; yes, he loves (and admires) her, from the bottom of his heart!
‘The Olive Branch’ is a lovely book; beyond the love story, it depicts a courageous woman who overcomes her fears… and adversity.
« Olives and romance might just flourish in the warmth of the Mediterranean Sea».
March 26, 2015
4.5 - "The only regrets you have in life are the things you didn't do." Stars!
The Olive Branch is the first book I have read by Jo Thomas, and it was a wonderfully vivid, beautifully written, entertaining and colorful journey into the heart of Italy, it was literally like going on holiday in my Kindle.
Ruthie’s journey from Tooting, London to Puglia, Italy and her subsequent exploits were an absolute delight too read, what with a cast of many, and not forgetting Daphne the goat as well as Phil and Kirsty the Chickens, it was easy to just get lost in the story and enjoy the scenery along the way.
I can’t carry on being scared of what others might think. I have to do what’s right for me.
This book reminds me a little of the films Under the Tuscan Sun and A Walk in the Clouds (both of which are favorites for me). I loved the strong familial feel that ripples through the story from the Bellanuovo families involvement, as well as reading of Ruthie taking the step outside the unknown, in taking a chance and standing up to her fears firstly by buying the Bellanuovo Masseria, and then getting stuck in and trying to make herself a new life once there, I really felt like I was enjoying her adventure alongside her.
”You always were a dreamer.”
Ruthie although a little gullible in a ’seeing the best of everyone’ sort of way was easy to like. Marco and his family added extra depth to the story, as well as the budding relationship that grows between him and Ruthie as the book progresses, I loved the little dares and challenges he sets her, and how as an outside observer you can see his reasons behind them are more to keep her around than actually drive her away.
This is a feel good book; you pick it up and immediately are immersed in the world that the author has created, it’s not too heavy going, and the drama is minimal. I finished it with a smile on my face, which for me is one of the best ways to end an adventure that I have taken in the pages of a book.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
The Olive Branch is the first book I have read by Jo Thomas, and it was a wonderfully vivid, beautifully written, entertaining and colorful journey into the heart of Italy, it was literally like going on holiday in my Kindle.
Ruthie’s journey from Tooting, London to Puglia, Italy and her subsequent exploits were an absolute delight too read, what with a cast of many, and not forgetting Daphne the goat as well as Phil and Kirsty the Chickens, it was easy to just get lost in the story and enjoy the scenery along the way.
I can’t carry on being scared of what others might think. I have to do what’s right for me.
This book reminds me a little of the films Under the Tuscan Sun and A Walk in the Clouds (both of which are favorites for me). I loved the strong familial feel that ripples through the story from the Bellanuovo families involvement, as well as reading of Ruthie taking the step outside the unknown, in taking a chance and standing up to her fears firstly by buying the Bellanuovo Masseria, and then getting stuck in and trying to make herself a new life once there, I really felt like I was enjoying her adventure alongside her.
”You always were a dreamer.”
Ruthie although a little gullible in a ’seeing the best of everyone’ sort of way was easy to like. Marco and his family added extra depth to the story, as well as the budding relationship that grows between him and Ruthie as the book progresses, I loved the little dares and challenges he sets her, and how as an outside observer you can see his reasons behind them are more to keep her around than actually drive her away.
This is a feel good book; you pick it up and immediately are immersed in the world that the author has created, it’s not too heavy going, and the drama is minimal. I finished it with a smile on my face, which for me is one of the best ways to end an adventure that I have taken in the pages of a book.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
August 22, 2018
This is one of those books I don't feel capable of giving stars to. It was good, but it didn't really touched me.. But I think other people could really enjoy it... it simply was not exactly for me. It's a simple love story with a romantic setting, but I want my romance to have something more, a little mystery or more drama.. I don't know, I wasn't as much into it as I was expecting to be. Daphne the goat is a good touch but not so important to the story to change my feelings.
I really think I should stop reading chik lit and romance..I am too exigent about them!
I really think I should stop reading chik lit and romance..I am too exigent about them!
September 14, 2017
A very cute, if typical, contemporary Brit chick lit. I loved the Italian setting. Ruthie was funny and dumb all at the same time. Daphne was the star of the story to me. And I learned (possibly more than I wanted) a LOT about olive oil. This is a quick, fun read.
July 4, 2015
A tasty treat to be devoured with a spoonful of olive oil in a crumbly old farmhouse in Puglia. Careful what you buy on ebay…and watch out for goats…..
It’s something most of us have done at some point – sat in front of a computer fuelled by alcohol. What most of us haven’t done however is to then go on Ebay and buy an Italian farmhouse.
Well Ruthie Collins does just that and before long she is thrown head first into a way of life, a raging family feud and the art of olive oil growing. Ruthie of course knows nothing of what to expect and even less about olive oil. Marco Bellanuovo, the rather handsome neighbour does however. The farmhouse has been in his family for years and Marco is at the heart of the feud and his mother’s apron strings. Marco and his family are suspicious of Ruthie’s motives and Marco is particularly keen to test her being there.
Ruthie is not about to crawl back to England. No she is there to fight for her dream.
Well of course Puglia just jumps from the page. And that’s just the high kicking goat called Daphne..
The author evokes vivid images of an idyllic Italian community – a village with a street market where the lemons on the trees are like ‘big gold cricket balls’ dripping from the branches.
And then there’s the countryside – the hills, the rugged landscape and the animals (goats and chickens abound), the crumbling farmhouse, ramshackle buildings…
Right at the heart of the novel is the Bellanouvo family – with Marco beaten down by his Italian Mama ( who is as flamboyant and a dab hand in the kitchen as you would wish)
But it’s the smell and story of olives that will have you licking your lips..
Let the oil sit on your tongue and you will find the flavours work like a balloon, first at the tip of your tongue and then expanding to touch the sides.
It’s a good every day oil. You should get the taste of tomatoes, apple and then pepper
Ruthie’s Italian skills don’t help her to explore this new world since the dialect and way of talking here is not what she learnt! What she does learn however is the Italian way of life, olive farming and the art of olive oil tasting. She makes rather too much piccalilli and uses this as a peace offering in the village – much to their amusement.
The joys of living the dream coupled with the harsh reality. The farmhouse in question is fraught with problems but the jovial, heartwarming and utterly chaotic Italian family community more than make up for it.
Bookish musings
A joy for all the senses.
Like being at the heart of the Mama Dolmio Advert with the larger than life characters, italian greetings sprinkled all over like the herbs on a good lasagne, this is life in Italy evoked for your taste buds.
I knew nothing of olive oil and farming and this was fascinating in the extreme! The hard work involved in working on a farm, orchard and mending the ornate Trullo roofs – such craftsmanship!
This world the author has created is a fascinating one which warms your heart and puts you at the heart of the Italian family bosom. You can hear them shouting and waving their arms even off the page which makes for one very funny read.
Oh and be careful of goats…they tend to have characters of their own and pop up everywhere at the most awkward of times!
A olive oil fused gem of a book with a duck poo aperitif…
It’s something most of us have done at some point – sat in front of a computer fuelled by alcohol. What most of us haven’t done however is to then go on Ebay and buy an Italian farmhouse.
Well Ruthie Collins does just that and before long she is thrown head first into a way of life, a raging family feud and the art of olive oil growing. Ruthie of course knows nothing of what to expect and even less about olive oil. Marco Bellanuovo, the rather handsome neighbour does however. The farmhouse has been in his family for years and Marco is at the heart of the feud and his mother’s apron strings. Marco and his family are suspicious of Ruthie’s motives and Marco is particularly keen to test her being there.
Ruthie is not about to crawl back to England. No she is there to fight for her dream.
Well of course Puglia just jumps from the page. And that’s just the high kicking goat called Daphne..
The author evokes vivid images of an idyllic Italian community – a village with a street market where the lemons on the trees are like ‘big gold cricket balls’ dripping from the branches.
And then there’s the countryside – the hills, the rugged landscape and the animals (goats and chickens abound), the crumbling farmhouse, ramshackle buildings…
Right at the heart of the novel is the Bellanouvo family – with Marco beaten down by his Italian Mama ( who is as flamboyant and a dab hand in the kitchen as you would wish)
But it’s the smell and story of olives that will have you licking your lips..
Let the oil sit on your tongue and you will find the flavours work like a balloon, first at the tip of your tongue and then expanding to touch the sides.
It’s a good every day oil. You should get the taste of tomatoes, apple and then pepper
Ruthie’s Italian skills don’t help her to explore this new world since the dialect and way of talking here is not what she learnt! What she does learn however is the Italian way of life, olive farming and the art of olive oil tasting. She makes rather too much piccalilli and uses this as a peace offering in the village – much to their amusement.
The joys of living the dream coupled with the harsh reality. The farmhouse in question is fraught with problems but the jovial, heartwarming and utterly chaotic Italian family community more than make up for it.
Bookish musings
A joy for all the senses.
Like being at the heart of the Mama Dolmio Advert with the larger than life characters, italian greetings sprinkled all over like the herbs on a good lasagne, this is life in Italy evoked for your taste buds.
I knew nothing of olive oil and farming and this was fascinating in the extreme! The hard work involved in working on a farm, orchard and mending the ornate Trullo roofs – such craftsmanship!
This world the author has created is a fascinating one which warms your heart and puts you at the heart of the Italian family bosom. You can hear them shouting and waving their arms even off the page which makes for one very funny read.
Oh and be careful of goats…they tend to have characters of their own and pop up everywhere at the most awkward of times!
A olive oil fused gem of a book with a duck poo aperitif…
March 18, 2015
The Olive Branch by Jo Thomas is published by Headline Review, in ebook on 25 March 2015, and paperback on 2 July 2015. The Olive Branch is Jo Thomas' second novel, her first; The Oyster Catcher was published in November 2014.
I was attracted to this novel by the blurb and the cover. I have a soft spot for stories set in Italy, and the cover design on The Olive Branch is really inviting. It's an incredibly easy read, I finished it during a return train trip down to London.
Ruthie has bought a farmhouse in the Italian countryside. She bought it on Ebay - just one click of the mouse and it was hers. She didn't actually seen the property before she signed for it, but after her disastrous relationship with her ex Ed, she is convinced that a totally new start is the answer for her.
It's not always sunny and warm in Italy, and when Ruthie gets her first glimpse of her new home, it's during a rainstorm that feels more like London than Liguaria. Factor in the fact that the house is far bigger than she expected and needs loads of work done, and add the resident goat to the mix, and it's clear from the outset that Ruthie may have bitten off more than she can chew.
Meeting her new neighbours; the Bellanuovo clan is more than a little overwhelming too. Mothers, Aunts, Grandmothers, there are so many of them, and they are so loud, and they had no idea until Ruthie appeared that the family farmhouse had been sold. This is not the greatest of starts!
Jo Thomas writes with warmth and with a touch of humour. Her descriptions of the Italian setting are divine and so so enticing. The characters, especially the Italians are just as are portrayed in film, they are loud and passionate, they love their food and their family, and there is even a splash of Mafia-like activities thrown in for good measure.
Ruthie is something of an enigma. On the one hand she appears to be rash and impetuous, yet at other times she is totally capable, with an insight and wisdom that is unexpected, but welcome.
The Olive Branch is a 'sunshine' read. It's a book that would be best read whilst sipping a glass of wine, with a plate of focaccia so the reader can fully immerse themselves into the feeling of the story. There's the mix of romance with family fued, a whole wealth of information about olive farming, life in a small Italian town, and of course, there is Daphne the goat - star of the show, scene stealer and goat extraordinaire!
I was attracted to this novel by the blurb and the cover. I have a soft spot for stories set in Italy, and the cover design on The Olive Branch is really inviting. It's an incredibly easy read, I finished it during a return train trip down to London.
Ruthie has bought a farmhouse in the Italian countryside. She bought it on Ebay - just one click of the mouse and it was hers. She didn't actually seen the property before she signed for it, but after her disastrous relationship with her ex Ed, she is convinced that a totally new start is the answer for her.
It's not always sunny and warm in Italy, and when Ruthie gets her first glimpse of her new home, it's during a rainstorm that feels more like London than Liguaria. Factor in the fact that the house is far bigger than she expected and needs loads of work done, and add the resident goat to the mix, and it's clear from the outset that Ruthie may have bitten off more than she can chew.
Meeting her new neighbours; the Bellanuovo clan is more than a little overwhelming too. Mothers, Aunts, Grandmothers, there are so many of them, and they are so loud, and they had no idea until Ruthie appeared that the family farmhouse had been sold. This is not the greatest of starts!
Jo Thomas writes with warmth and with a touch of humour. Her descriptions of the Italian setting are divine and so so enticing. The characters, especially the Italians are just as are portrayed in film, they are loud and passionate, they love their food and their family, and there is even a splash of Mafia-like activities thrown in for good measure.
Ruthie is something of an enigma. On the one hand she appears to be rash and impetuous, yet at other times she is totally capable, with an insight and wisdom that is unexpected, but welcome.
The Olive Branch is a 'sunshine' read. It's a book that would be best read whilst sipping a glass of wine, with a plate of focaccia so the reader can fully immerse themselves into the feeling of the story. There's the mix of romance with family fued, a whole wealth of information about olive farming, life in a small Italian town, and of course, there is Daphne the goat - star of the show, scene stealer and goat extraordinaire!
September 19, 2015
I’m always drawn to books set in Italy and this sounded so enticing. There is no denying that it is a well written book with warmth and humour. There is a great sense of place with the descriptions of the olive farm and the surrounding landscape, the food - it all sounded so inviting. I just felt the story wasn't strong or exciting enough to make it memorable.
I’m sure most of us have bought something on eBay that we later wish we hadn’t but Ruthie takes it one step further and buys a dilapidated olive farm, without even seeing it. Ruthie was a lively character and she was certainly a hard worker in her attempts to restore the farm to its former glory. However being unexpectedly caught in the middle of a family feud with resulting acts of sabotage didn't help matters.
I didn't dislike the book at all and it was a pleasant and easy read but it was all rather stereotypical with the feuding and moody Italian family and the predictable love interest. There were quite a few characters in the book to get to know and there were times when it became difficult to distinguish between some of them. There was however one character that I fell in love with – Daphne; the ‘guard’ goat. She was wonderful and definitely the star of the story for me.
I’m sure most of us have bought something on eBay that we later wish we hadn’t but Ruthie takes it one step further and buys a dilapidated olive farm, without even seeing it. Ruthie was a lively character and she was certainly a hard worker in her attempts to restore the farm to its former glory. However being unexpectedly caught in the middle of a family feud with resulting acts of sabotage didn't help matters.
I didn't dislike the book at all and it was a pleasant and easy read but it was all rather stereotypical with the feuding and moody Italian family and the predictable love interest. There were quite a few characters in the book to get to know and there were times when it became difficult to distinguish between some of them. There was however one character that I fell in love with – Daphne; the ‘guard’ goat. She was wonderful and definitely the star of the story for me.
August 24, 2015
Didn't really like the style of writing on this one it felt a bit too hectic! Good story though but doesn't make me want to rush out and read another by this author.
August 16, 2023
The men in this book were unfortunately super toxic, but the setting in Puglia was 😍😍😍 hence the generous extra star.
July 3, 2020
"Четири шепи любов" от Джо Томас отвежда на пътешествие из Южна Италия, където главната героиня Рути Колинс си купува голяма къща в Интернет под въздействието на голяма доза просеко!
Тя е англичанка, която има приятел, който е от този тип мъже, които не търсят вината първо в себе си, а в партньора. За Рути връзката им отдавна е изчерпана. В момент на отпускане от сивото ежедневие с бутилка просеко и приятелка, тя натиска бутона "купи". От тук нататък животът й се преобръща.
Получава одобрение за къщата и стяга багажа за Италия.
Когато пристига там обаче се сблъсква с куп недоразумения. Една загубила се коза препречва пътя й. Пристига в купената от нея къща, в която е живял възрастен италианец - Джовани Белануово, който е починал малко след като тя подписва документите за къщата. Докато Рути оглежда новия си дом, в къщата влиза Марко Белануово (внук на Джовани), който е силно озадачен от това, че в къщата има някой. Започват да се изясняват купища недоразумения, свързани с покупката й. Време, през което Рути и Марко, са в непрестанно съревнование и вражда. На хоризонта се появява и усмихнатия Райън, което още повече разколебава Рути.
Ремонтът на къщата струва много, а Рути няма възможност, за да успее да се справи - трябват й пари за ремонт на собственото й труло (малка кръгла къща с конусовидно покривче), също и за месарията. Маслиновите насаждения също си искат своите грижи. Беритбата на маслини наближава, а с настъпването й, Рути все повече започва да си задава въпроси, дали постъпката й да дойде в слънчева Пулия, е била най-обмисленото решение в живота й.
Отгоре на всичко и майката на Марко е в постоянен конфликт с нея. Местните пазят своето и не допускат чужденци в общността си.
Съмненията й, че решението й е било прибързано, думите на майка й и на бившия й приятел, разяждат душата й. Но една възрастна жена й казва: "Зехтинът е основата на новото готвене, а доброто готвене е в основата на семейния живот."
Много ми допадна стила на Джо Томас, затова давам оценка 5*.
Тя е англичанка, която има приятел, който е от този тип мъже, които не търсят вината първо в себе си, а в партньора. За Рути връзката им отдавна е изчерпана. В момент на отпускане от сивото ежедневие с бутилка просеко и приятелка, тя натиска бутона "купи". От тук нататък животът й се преобръща.
Получава одобрение за къщата и стяга багажа за Италия.
Когато пристига там обаче се сблъсква с куп недоразумения. Една загубила се коза препречва пътя й. Пристига в купената от нея къща, в която е живял възрастен италианец - Джовани Белануово, който е починал малко след като тя подписва документите за къщата. Докато Рути оглежда новия си дом, в къщата влиза Марко Белануово (внук на Джовани), който е силно озадачен от това, че в къщата има някой. Започват да се изясняват купища недоразумения, свързани с покупката й. Време, през което Рути и Марко, са в непрестанно съревнование и вражда. На хоризонта се появява и усмихнатия Райън, което още повече разколебава Рути.
Ремонтът на къщата струва много, а Рути няма възможност, за да успее да се справи - трябват й пари за ремонт на собственото й труло (малка кръгла къща с конусовидно покривче), също и за месарията. Маслиновите насаждения също си искат своите грижи. Беритбата на маслини наближава, а с настъпването й, Рути все повече започва да си задава въпроси, дали постъпката й да дойде в слънчева Пулия, е била най-обмисленото решение в живота й.
Отгоре на всичко и майката на Марко е в постоянен конфликт с нея. Местните пазят своето и не допускат чужденци в общността си.
Съмненията й, че решението й е било прибързано, думите на майка й и на бившия й приятел, разяждат душата й. Но една възрастна жена й казва: "Зехтинът е основата на новото готвене, а доброто готвене е в основата на семейния живот."
Много ми допадна стила на Джо Томас, затова давам оценка 5*.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 10, 2021
3,5* Първите 100 страници бяха много скучни и действие почти нямаше. Рути постоянно се оплакваше и мрънкаше и до края не можах да видя развитие на характера й и малко повече смелост. Не успя да ми допадне и затова оценката ми е такава.
May 3, 2016
Ruthie Collins has broken up with her boyfriend Ed, sold their London home, and moved in with her mother. One night after a few glasses of Prosecco, Ruthie buys an old Italian farmhouse on eBay. What she actually gets is a lot more; a house and land bigger than she’d imagined, a warring Italian family for neighbours, and a goat named Daphne.
The story is based in the idyllic setting of rural Italy with its rich red earth, beautiful rustic houses, and seas of olive groves. The author either knows Italy or she has done her research extremely well.
The scenery, the language, and the people are all so vibrantly described that they come to life. I could picture each tiny detail, smell the earth, and taste the Bellanuovo olive oil. All of your senses are put to use in this wonderfully descriptive story. If you’ve never visited rural Italy then you’ll most definitely want to add it to your bucket list after reading this.
The house Ruthie buys belonged to her neighbours’ grandfather and he hadn’t told his family he’d sold it. He never got the chance to as he passed away straight after selling it. It’s only when Ruthie comes face to face with Marco Bellanuovo, the previous owner’s grandson, that the family realise what has happened – and they’re not exactly pleased about it!
Ruthie tries to make the most of her new life abroad but it isn’t easy; She inherits the Bellanuovo goat who she renames Daphne, she has a lot of work ahead of her to get the house up to scratch, and she faces an ongoing battle of wills with Marco. There are some lovely scenes between them that had me gasping and cringing in shock (the funeral scene was brilliant, but that’s all I’ll say) and I found myself smiling and laughing as I read on.
Ruthie’s ex-boyfriend Ed crops up a few times and she wonders if she’s made the right choice several times in the story. Then there’s Ryan; an Australian who takes a shine to Ruthie and makes her feel welcome in Italy. He offers to help her out with the works needed on her new home, and she gratefully accepts.
With three potential love interests for Ruthie, the book keeps you guessing as to what will happen. I did have a fair idea but the story was so well written, I couldn’t be certain as to who Ruthie would choose until the end due to the twists along the way.
Some books you read and then pass on to a friend and some you drop off to the charity shop. Not this one. This book is for keeps! It was heart-warming, funny, romantic, and I couldn’t put it down.
Reviewed by Jodie at www.whisperingstories.com
The story is based in the idyllic setting of rural Italy with its rich red earth, beautiful rustic houses, and seas of olive groves. The author either knows Italy or she has done her research extremely well.
The scenery, the language, and the people are all so vibrantly described that they come to life. I could picture each tiny detail, smell the earth, and taste the Bellanuovo olive oil. All of your senses are put to use in this wonderfully descriptive story. If you’ve never visited rural Italy then you’ll most definitely want to add it to your bucket list after reading this.
The house Ruthie buys belonged to her neighbours’ grandfather and he hadn’t told his family he’d sold it. He never got the chance to as he passed away straight after selling it. It’s only when Ruthie comes face to face with Marco Bellanuovo, the previous owner’s grandson, that the family realise what has happened – and they’re not exactly pleased about it!
Ruthie tries to make the most of her new life abroad but it isn’t easy; She inherits the Bellanuovo goat who she renames Daphne, she has a lot of work ahead of her to get the house up to scratch, and she faces an ongoing battle of wills with Marco. There are some lovely scenes between them that had me gasping and cringing in shock (the funeral scene was brilliant, but that’s all I’ll say) and I found myself smiling and laughing as I read on.
Ruthie’s ex-boyfriend Ed crops up a few times and she wonders if she’s made the right choice several times in the story. Then there’s Ryan; an Australian who takes a shine to Ruthie and makes her feel welcome in Italy. He offers to help her out with the works needed on her new home, and she gratefully accepts.
With three potential love interests for Ruthie, the book keeps you guessing as to what will happen. I did have a fair idea but the story was so well written, I couldn’t be certain as to who Ruthie would choose until the end due to the twists along the way.
Some books you read and then pass on to a friend and some you drop off to the charity shop. Not this one. This book is for keeps! It was heart-warming, funny, romantic, and I couldn’t put it down.
Reviewed by Jodie at www.whisperingstories.com
June 16, 2016
An excellent read and really warm story with great characters and a heartwarming tale. Ruthie splits with her boyfriend and decides to move out to Italy and she has brought a place out there but once she arrives people say she doesn't own it but after looking into it she does. Everyone back home tells her she is daft making this move and irresponsible but she wants to prove them wrong. She doesn't hit it off with certain people in the village and she really begins to think she has made the wrong move she has no idea on how to run an olive farm and needs to win over the family who are neighbours. Can she work it all out for the best and make a living there or does she decide to come home or does she find true love. A really well written story.
July 21, 2015
The Olive Branch is an evocative story about Italy. The portrayal of the hardships involved in moving to a run down rural farmhouse in another country offers a refreshing view of an often over-romanticised situation. Despite the realism, the novel had a fairy tale quality. I bought my paperback copy from Sainsburys.
April 2, 2017
This little treasure was a bargain at 99p on the Kindle store. I think you should read this not only if you adore romance, or travel, or community, or drama, or family; but if you love really good writing that brings you in to the point where you do not want to give the world up. I loved this and I feel so summery now!
February 6, 2024
Alleen al de prachtige en betoverende sfeer van de cover nodigt al uit tot het lezen van het boek. De prachtige stralende kleuren en het idyllische landschap van een Italiaans berglandschap met een verlaten boerderij in de verte roepen bij mij verlangen, rust en een vakantiegevoel op. Het is het eerste boek van Jo Thomas dat ik ga lezen, maar ik heb hoge verwachtingen. De flaptekst is ook veelbelovend.
Het leven van Ruthie ziet er na een verbroken relatie niet rooskleurig uit. Wanneer ze na een avond van te veel wijn drinken met vriendinnen wakker wordt, wacht haar een grote verrassing. In haar dronken bui heeft ze op Ebay een bod gedaan op een Italiaanse boerderij. Het bod is geaccepteerd. Dit is precies wat ze nodig heeft om bij haar moeder van de bank te komen. Vol goede moed vertrekt ze naar Zuid-Italië, maar een vervallen olijvenboomgaard runnen blijkt toch niet zo eenvoudig. Ook haar temperamentvolle buurman Marco Bellanouvo en zijn familie maken de situatie niet gemakkelijker. Het leven kan met een muisklik veranderen, maar liefde, vriendschap en olijven hebben meer tijd nodig. Zal Ruthie haar nieuwe thuis en plek vinden?
Jo Thomas heeft een erg sfeervolle, vlotte en meeslepende schrijfstijl. Voordat ik er erg in had, zat ik compleet gebiologeerd in het verhaal en kon ik het echt niet meer los laten. Zeker bij romans, heb ik het niet heel erg snel dat een verhaal me zo weet te pakken.
We volgen het verhaal van Ruthie, het hoofdpersonage met met veel gevoel, detail en aandacht neergezet. Daarbij is het ook nog eens een erg realistisch personage wat je betrokkenheid en empathie vergroot. Niet enkel Ruthie, maar ook de andere personages zijn unieke en heel diverse verschijningen, wat het verhaal erg realistisch maakt. Zeker Marco vind ik een bijzonder en goed personage.
Het verhaal heeft een mooie en prettige opbouw. Aangezien het verhaal begint op het moment dat Ruthie wakker wordt en de ontdekking van de Italiaanse boerderij doet, ga je mee in haar nieuwe avontuur, waardoor de personages op heel natuurlijke wijze in het verhaal geïntroduceerd worden. Daarbij is het verhaal met zoveel sfeer en gevoel beschreven dat je helemaal wegdroomt en de Italiaanse boerderij en de olijvenboomgaard voor je ziet. Het verhaal weet echt indruk op me te maken en ik vind het een erg origineel, intrigerend en ontroerend verhaal. Zeker op de wijze waarop het verhaal afsluit.
De Italiaanse droom is een originele, sferische en mooie roman. Het verhaal wist me direct te pakken en is erg vlot, meeslepend en met veel sfeer en gevoel geschreven. De personages zijn realistisch en met veel aandacht neergezet, daarbij weet Jo Thomas de situatie en gebeurtenissen zo te beschrijven dat je de Italiaanse boerderij met de olijvenboomgaard voor je ogen ziet. Een aanrader!
Het leven van Ruthie ziet er na een verbroken relatie niet rooskleurig uit. Wanneer ze na een avond van te veel wijn drinken met vriendinnen wakker wordt, wacht haar een grote verrassing. In haar dronken bui heeft ze op Ebay een bod gedaan op een Italiaanse boerderij. Het bod is geaccepteerd. Dit is precies wat ze nodig heeft om bij haar moeder van de bank te komen. Vol goede moed vertrekt ze naar Zuid-Italië, maar een vervallen olijvenboomgaard runnen blijkt toch niet zo eenvoudig. Ook haar temperamentvolle buurman Marco Bellanouvo en zijn familie maken de situatie niet gemakkelijker. Het leven kan met een muisklik veranderen, maar liefde, vriendschap en olijven hebben meer tijd nodig. Zal Ruthie haar nieuwe thuis en plek vinden?
Jo Thomas heeft een erg sfeervolle, vlotte en meeslepende schrijfstijl. Voordat ik er erg in had, zat ik compleet gebiologeerd in het verhaal en kon ik het echt niet meer los laten. Zeker bij romans, heb ik het niet heel erg snel dat een verhaal me zo weet te pakken.
We volgen het verhaal van Ruthie, het hoofdpersonage met met veel gevoel, detail en aandacht neergezet. Daarbij is het ook nog eens een erg realistisch personage wat je betrokkenheid en empathie vergroot. Niet enkel Ruthie, maar ook de andere personages zijn unieke en heel diverse verschijningen, wat het verhaal erg realistisch maakt. Zeker Marco vind ik een bijzonder en goed personage.
Het verhaal heeft een mooie en prettige opbouw. Aangezien het verhaal begint op het moment dat Ruthie wakker wordt en de ontdekking van de Italiaanse boerderij doet, ga je mee in haar nieuwe avontuur, waardoor de personages op heel natuurlijke wijze in het verhaal geïntroduceerd worden. Daarbij is het verhaal met zoveel sfeer en gevoel beschreven dat je helemaal wegdroomt en de Italiaanse boerderij en de olijvenboomgaard voor je ziet. Het verhaal weet echt indruk op me te maken en ik vind het een erg origineel, intrigerend en ontroerend verhaal. Zeker op de wijze waarop het verhaal afsluit.
De Italiaanse droom is een originele, sferische en mooie roman. Het verhaal wist me direct te pakken en is erg vlot, meeslepend en met veel sfeer en gevoel geschreven. De personages zijn realistisch en met veel aandacht neergezet, daarbij weet Jo Thomas de situatie en gebeurtenissen zo te beschrijven dat je de Italiaanse boerderij met de olijvenboomgaard voor je ogen ziet. Een aanrader!
March 30, 2023
Приятна книга, но не и нещо кой знае колко особено. Движи се по типичните маниери на жанра - скарване с гадже, ново начало на ново място, нов съсед, нови предизвикателства и през цялото време колебание дали е взето правилното решение.
Рути е героинята тук, която от дъждовен Лондон предприема драстичната стъпка да се премести в дълбоката провинция на слънчева Италия. Маслиновата ферма, която купува обаче изобщо не е това, което очаква - порутена главна постройка, без удобства и интернет с маслинова горичка и маслини, за които не знае как да се грижи. Още повече, че съседите ѝ правят проблеми и искат да я изгонят. На ръба на силите си Рути съумява да превърне къщата в годна за живеене, а маслините в начин за препитание. Разбира се на помощ се притичва готиния съсед - Марко, който обратно на семейството си иска да задържи Рути там където е.
Наистина книгата на места е блудкава, на места прозрачна и предвидима, няма нищо изненадващо или неочаквано. Но приласкава с идеята за Италия и идеята за Dolce vita. Всеки би пожелал да живее там, но не знам дали всеки би пожелал да отглежда маслини. Има и една коза за разкош, която непрекъснато се пречка в краката на героинята.
Рути е героинята тук, която от дъждовен Лондон предприема драстичната стъпка да се премести в дълбоката провинция на слънчева Италия. Маслиновата ферма, която купува обаче изобщо не е това, което очаква - порутена главна постройка, без удобства и интернет с маслинова горичка и маслини, за които не знае как да се грижи. Още повече, че съседите ѝ правят проблеми и искат да я изгонят. На ръба на силите си Рути съумява да превърне къщата в годна за живеене, а маслините в начин за препитание. Разбира се на помощ се притичва готиния съсед - Марко, който обратно на семейството си иска да задържи Рути там където е.
Наистина книгата на места е блудкава, на места прозрачна и предвидима, няма нищо изненадващо или неочаквано. Но приласкава с идеята за Италия и идеята за Dolce vita. Всеки би пожелал да живее там, но не знам дали всеки би пожелал да отглежда маслини. Има и една коза за разкош, която непрекъснато се пречка в краката на героинята.
April 2, 2024
Een schitterend mooie zomerse boek om jezelf in te verliezen. Van begin tot eind is het een prachtig verhaal over een vrouw die een sprong in de diepe waagt om naar het buitenland toe te verhuizen. Duidelijke verhaallijn en mooi in details omschreven. Je verveelt je geen moment en krijgt het idee dat je het zelf bent. Aanrader !
October 7, 2024
Мнението ми за тази книга е едно голямо Уфф! Добре започна, но с всяка следващата глава, звездите които бих дала се понижаваха все повече. Героите общуваха като 10 годишни, които все още не са се научили да познават емоциите си. Стила наподобява много чиклит, най-вече с поведението и описанието на героинята, която се държи неадекватно през повечето време. А от сладникавият край, който включва щастие и любов за всички, може човек да получи захарен диабет.
May 27, 2017
A beautiful story!
April 19, 2020
Read for book club - I loved it! Brilliant sense of place.
June 10, 2023
Så mysig bok!! Älskar miljön och den ganska uppenbara berättelsen, dock lite för lik i berättelsen mot ”Den spanska körbärsträdgården”
July 26, 2025
Heerlijk zoet, soms een beetje té zoet
May 24, 2017
Predictable from start to finish but intriguing enough to keep me reading. I learned about olive farming, and oil production, so that was something. I grew weary of the heroine's chronic lack of self-confidence and histrionics over decision-making. If you enjoy Romance in an Italian setting, you'll enjoy this book.
April 8, 2020
Wow what a book - it's amazing.
I have been reading this book under my two olives trees, and dreamt back to Italy.
This book is very good and its just a feel-good feeling you need right now ❤️
I have been reading this book under my two olives trees, and dreamt back to Italy.
This book is very good and its just a feel-good feeling you need right now ❤️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 271 reviews