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The Five Year Plan
At 33, DEMI Moretti’s five-year plan is on track. She’s moved in with her boyfriend Wil, and is waiting patiently for her father to retire so she can take over the running of the family café.
But when her father blindsides her by handing the café to her older brother Nick, and she suspects Wil might be cheating on her, Demi’s five year plan crumbles like crostoli.
Determined to get things back on track, Demi travels to Italy to learn more about her Italian heritage, and to give her and Wil some much needed space. And also in the hope that while she’s away, her father will come to his senses.
But her travels don’t go to plan either. Long held family feuds, a love triangle from the past, and an unexpected new friend in Leo, all come together to make Demi question everything – especially her five year plan.
Will Demi get her plan back on track?
Or will she realise that sometimes fate has other ideas?
The Five Year Plan is contemporary women’s fiction novel with a touch of humour and a lot of heart. It will appeal to readers who want to be whisked away from their day to day life and immersed in a feel-good story of food, travel, and romance.
But when her father blindsides her by handing the café to her older brother Nick, and she suspects Wil might be cheating on her, Demi’s five year plan crumbles like crostoli.
Determined to get things back on track, Demi travels to Italy to learn more about her Italian heritage, and to give her and Wil some much needed space. And also in the hope that while she’s away, her father will come to his senses.
But her travels don’t go to plan either. Long held family feuds, a love triangle from the past, and an unexpected new friend in Leo, all come together to make Demi question everything – especially her five year plan.
Will Demi get her plan back on track?
Or will she realise that sometimes fate has other ideas?
The Five Year Plan is contemporary women’s fiction novel with a touch of humour and a lot of heart. It will appeal to readers who want to be whisked away from their day to day life and immersed in a feel-good story of food, travel, and romance.
290 pages, Paperback
Published September 7, 2021
26 people are currently reading
492 people want to read
About the author
Jodi Gibson
6 books68 followersJodi is an Australian author, writing mentor and podcaster. She writes contemporary women's fiction and crime/suspense.
Jodi lives in regional Australia with her family on a mini-farm and spends her time while not writing, either baking or reading.
Jodi's debut novel, a contemporary drama, THE MEMORIES WE HIDE, was released in August 2019. Her second novel, a feel-good holiday romance THE FIVE YEAR PLAN was published in 2021, and REINVENTING EMILY BROWN, another feel-good novel was published in September 2023. Jodi is also working on her next feel-good fiction, as well as something in the crime suspense genre.
You can find Jodi at www.jfgibson.com.au, on her weekly ASK THE AUTHOR PODCAST or hanging out on Instagram @jfgibsonwriter
Jodi lives in regional Australia with her family on a mini-farm and spends her time while not writing, either baking or reading.
Jodi's debut novel, a contemporary drama, THE MEMORIES WE HIDE, was released in August 2019. Her second novel, a feel-good holiday romance THE FIVE YEAR PLAN was published in 2021, and REINVENTING EMILY BROWN, another feel-good novel was published in September 2023. Jodi is also working on her next feel-good fiction, as well as something in the crime suspense genre.
You can find Jodi at www.jfgibson.com.au, on her weekly ASK THE AUTHOR PODCAST or hanging out on Instagram @jfgibsonwriter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
December 19, 2021
33-year-old Demi Moretti is pleased with the direction her life is heading. She helps her parents manage a quaint Italian café, has a wonderful best friend, and a loving boyfriend with who she can see herself settling down within the near future. Her father isn't getting any younger and she dreams of the day she can call the café hers.
Her Five Year Plan implodes when she notices Will, her boyfriend, acting suspiciously. He comes home late at night and takes mysterious phone calls. Could he be cheating on her? Then her father announces that he will be giving her most prized possession to her eldest brother. How could he? Nick wouldn't appreciate the beauty of the café, whereas she would cherish it and change it for the better. It's everything she has ever wanted since she was 18...
To find a new purpose, she decides to reach out to her estranged family in Italy. She is enthralled to try new food, travel, and work in their trattoria. Maybe then she could prove to her own that she is capable of running a successful business. On her way to Italy, she meets a gorgeous stranger with sparkling green eyes and beautiful, brown curls at the airport. The stranger introduces himself as Leo, and Demi is happy to meet a fellow Italian!
Finally in Bari, Italy, she meets her cousins and grandmother who treat her with kindness and warmth. This is exactly where she belongs. When she hears her name being called on her way to her temporary home, she is stunned to see Leo. She never expected to see him again. He surprisingly works across from the trattoria at his family's modern restaurant, Russo's. Their attraction to each other is undeniable, it's fate!
When they begin to see each other, she discovers their families are fierce rivals. She's falling for the enemy and feels that she is betraying her family, who are starting to trust her. During her time there she also uncovers family secrets that should've stayed buried in the past. Will Demi and Leo be torn apart by lies and a generational long feud?
A heartwarming 3.5 star read, rounded up to 4 stars! The beginning started slowly, but I enjoyed the descriptions of Italy's beautiful surroundings and the unfurling of Demi and Leo's forbidden love story. My favorite secondary characters were Demi's friends, Anna and Brad! Overall The Five Year Plan is a cute, Hallmark-style story about second chances and self-discovery.
tropes: clean contemporary, insta- love, & hint of forbidden romance!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read The Five Year Plan in exchange for my honest review.
Her Five Year Plan implodes when she notices Will, her boyfriend, acting suspiciously. He comes home late at night and takes mysterious phone calls. Could he be cheating on her? Then her father announces that he will be giving her most prized possession to her eldest brother. How could he? Nick wouldn't appreciate the beauty of the café, whereas she would cherish it and change it for the better. It's everything she has ever wanted since she was 18...
To find a new purpose, she decides to reach out to her estranged family in Italy. She is enthralled to try new food, travel, and work in their trattoria. Maybe then she could prove to her own that she is capable of running a successful business. On her way to Italy, she meets a gorgeous stranger with sparkling green eyes and beautiful, brown curls at the airport. The stranger introduces himself as Leo, and Demi is happy to meet a fellow Italian!
Finally in Bari, Italy, she meets her cousins and grandmother who treat her with kindness and warmth. This is exactly where she belongs. When she hears her name being called on her way to her temporary home, she is stunned to see Leo. She never expected to see him again. He surprisingly works across from the trattoria at his family's modern restaurant, Russo's. Their attraction to each other is undeniable, it's fate!
When they begin to see each other, she discovers their families are fierce rivals. She's falling for the enemy and feels that she is betraying her family, who are starting to trust her. During her time there she also uncovers family secrets that should've stayed buried in the past. Will Demi and Leo be torn apart by lies and a generational long feud?
A heartwarming 3.5 star read, rounded up to 4 stars! The beginning started slowly, but I enjoyed the descriptions of Italy's beautiful surroundings and the unfurling of Demi and Leo's forbidden love story. My favorite secondary characters were Demi's friends, Anna and Brad! Overall The Five Year Plan is a cute, Hallmark-style story about second chances and self-discovery.
tropes: clean contemporary, insta- love, & hint of forbidden romance!
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for allowing me to read The Five Year Plan in exchange for my honest review.
November 27, 2021
Review to follow.
August 15, 2021
*Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review *
3.75 stars
In the Five Year Plan, Demi, our protagonist, is feeling dissatisfied with her life as she's failed to meet her goals within the specified time-frame, such as to take over her family's trattoria in Melbourne, and is feeling dissatisfied with her relationship.
Sort of Eat, Pray, Love meets Under the Tuscan Sun, she embarks on an adventure to learn more about her family history and food in Italy. I did enjoy her character development, although she did sometimes annoy me.
Overall, this was a cute, quick rom-com, with a focus on self-discovery.
I did feel like some of the characters were a bit overdramatic, but then again they're Italians, so it's probably not too far off the truth - not to offend any Italians here but there is a general flair for the dramatic, and you can't deny that!
Warning: The food descriptions in this book may induce severe hunger.
3.75 stars
In the Five Year Plan, Demi, our protagonist, is feeling dissatisfied with her life as she's failed to meet her goals within the specified time-frame, such as to take over her family's trattoria in Melbourne, and is feeling dissatisfied with her relationship.
Sort of Eat, Pray, Love meets Under the Tuscan Sun, she embarks on an adventure to learn more about her family history and food in Italy. I did enjoy her character development, although she did sometimes annoy me.
Overall, this was a cute, quick rom-com, with a focus on self-discovery.
I did feel like some of the characters were a bit overdramatic, but then again they're Italians, so it's probably not too far off the truth - not to offend any Italians here but there is a general flair for the dramatic, and you can't deny that!
Warning: The food descriptions in this book may induce severe hunger.
December 22, 2021
I really enjoyed this book! The plot is good, the characters are well written and fun, and I loved the detailed descriptions of Bari, Italy and the surrounding area. The food sounds spectacular!
Demi Moretti has a plan - take over the family restaurant in Melbourne, get the right guy and get a house etc. Unfortunately, life doesn’t follow plans on paper, and when her father turns the restaurant over to her brother, Demi decides to go to her family in Bari, Italy and work in their cafe. Her parents left Bari and never returned, and Demi doesn’t know what happened to make them leave.
She is welcomed by the family, and learns how to make new recipes that made my mouth water! Demi also starts to go out with a guy she met on the plane, Leo. Unfortunately, his family owns the cafe across the square, and the two families are sworn enemies. The feud started over an incident with fish, and Demi can’t believe it’s still going on now. Her family finds out, and they disapprove, but Demi’s feelings from Leo, and his for her, are getting serious.
Demi isn’t sure how to overcome a family feud, as well as the fact that they live thousands of miles apart. Are their feelings strong enough to overcome these hurdles?
I recommend this book to foodies and romance lovers! 4 stars.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Demi Moretti has a plan - take over the family restaurant in Melbourne, get the right guy and get a house etc. Unfortunately, life doesn’t follow plans on paper, and when her father turns the restaurant over to her brother, Demi decides to go to her family in Bari, Italy and work in their cafe. Her parents left Bari and never returned, and Demi doesn’t know what happened to make them leave.
She is welcomed by the family, and learns how to make new recipes that made my mouth water! Demi also starts to go out with a guy she met on the plane, Leo. Unfortunately, his family owns the cafe across the square, and the two families are sworn enemies. The feud started over an incident with fish, and Demi can’t believe it’s still going on now. Her family finds out, and they disapprove, but Demi’s feelings from Leo, and his for her, are getting serious.
Demi isn’t sure how to overcome a family feud, as well as the fact that they live thousands of miles apart. Are their feelings strong enough to overcome these hurdles?
I recommend this book to foodies and romance lovers! 4 stars.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 23, 2021
5 stars and a delightful read which I read in a day. Being married to an Italian who came to Australia in 1952 at the age of 4, I experienced his joy and wonder of meeting his uncle, aunt & cousins and seeing the actual house he was born in when he revisited Italy 52 years later. For me, this book was a delight. Set in Melbourne and Italy I enjoyed revisiting Bari, some new Italian Recipes and life in Italy. Experiencing New Love plus Love for Family, friends and forgetting about your 5 year plan to live in the moment and to follow your 'gut' is the takeaway message for me.
August 29, 2021
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishing for providing an ARC for me to read for an honest review
3.5 stars
This first half of the book was slow for me. I felt like it could have been shortened. It really picked up in the second half when there was more Leo and Demi time together.
The cooking had my mouth watering most of the book and I am already reaching for my passport to go run to travel again soon. The locations were dreamy and I wish I could see them.
This book gives all the hallmark movie vibes which if you walk in knowing I think you will enjoy it and it is just a sweet book. I was able to predict a lot of the twists that were coming so maybe that is why I had trouble staying as engaged during it. Overall a cute book though!
3.5 stars
This first half of the book was slow for me. I felt like it could have been shortened. It really picked up in the second half when there was more Leo and Demi time together.
The cooking had my mouth watering most of the book and I am already reaching for my passport to go run to travel again soon. The locations were dreamy and I wish I could see them.
This book gives all the hallmark movie vibes which if you walk in knowing I think you will enjoy it and it is just a sweet book. I was able to predict a lot of the twists that were coming so maybe that is why I had trouble staying as engaged during it. Overall a cute book though!
d-n-f
September 2, 2021I D-N-F this book.. it's so boring and predictable and the characters take such ridiculous decisions.
It was meticulously set in such a slow- fast phase..I mean something like romance is so fast,they fall in love in just a few meetings ..okay! I'm being rational thinking about how I don't like that trope and still trying to be good to this book.
But the family drama is so slow phase...halfway the book it's mostly about recipes and food .
seriously! They are 30 not 13 ... I felt frustrated with some of their decisions 😑
I seriously seriously tried to read this book with love, I just couldn't after half way.. I don't want to spend my time not enjoying a book so I D-N-F it.
It was meticulously set in such a slow- fast phase..I mean something like romance is so fast,they fall in love in just a few meetings ..okay! I'm being rational thinking about how I don't like that trope and still trying to be good to this book.
But the family drama is so slow phase...halfway the book it's mostly about recipes and food .
seriously! They are 30 not 13 ... I felt frustrated with some of their decisions 😑
I seriously seriously tried to read this book with love, I just couldn't after half way.. I don't want to spend my time not enjoying a book so I D-N-F it.
December 19, 2021
Nothing riles me up like good-old sexism against our passionate and lovely main character.
Hence, The main conflict itself was so intriguing that I was drawn to this book like an ant to a cube of sugar.
Demi loves her cafe. It is not just a place to eat. It is a place with family heritage, history, smiles, and stories. She’s planning to do a lot of stuff and make it even better when her dad retires and gives the cafe to her. Only, he doesn’t. He gives it to her older brother. And thus, her whole 5-year plan comes crumbling down.
The book is fast-paced and engaging right from the start. I loved Demi and the world around her. The exposure to Italian culture was a beautiful experience. With this book, my list of food to try, and places to visit and elongated.
And, well, Leo is *chef’s kiss* sweet. Would love to have a Leo in my life, even though I live in India and have little chance of ever visiting Italy.
Coming back to the topic, the book was lovely. Definitely recommended.
Thank you Netgalley and Brio Books/Verb Publishing for the e-ARC of this book.
Hence, The main conflict itself was so intriguing that I was drawn to this book like an ant to a cube of sugar.
Demi loves her cafe. It is not just a place to eat. It is a place with family heritage, history, smiles, and stories. She’s planning to do a lot of stuff and make it even better when her dad retires and gives the cafe to her. Only, he doesn’t. He gives it to her older brother. And thus, her whole 5-year plan comes crumbling down.
The book is fast-paced and engaging right from the start. I loved Demi and the world around her. The exposure to Italian culture was a beautiful experience. With this book, my list of food to try, and places to visit and elongated.
And, well, Leo is *chef’s kiss* sweet. Would love to have a Leo in my life, even though I live in India and have little chance of ever visiting Italy.
Coming back to the topic, the book was lovely. Definitely recommended.
Thank you Netgalley and Brio Books/Verb Publishing for the e-ARC of this book.
September 28, 2021
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
3.5 stars
‘It’s cool to have someone to share this with. You know, it’s like all my dreams are coming true in one big hit. It hasn’t turned out as we’d envisaged in our five-year plan, but I think it’s turning out even better.’
The Five Year Plan is the second contemporary fiction title from Australian author Jodi Gibson. A story of life, plans, fate, choices, family, travel, food and love, The Five Year Plan is a feel-good novel that general fiction readers will lap up.
For thirty something Demi, life is all about making plans and looking to the future. Demi has her life set up exactly how she planned. With a boyfriend, a home and a secure job at her family’s café, the only thing left for Demi to achieve is running her family’s business. But Demi’s plans go by the wayside when she is issued with a huge shock. Demi has naturally assumed she will run her family’s café when the time is right, but when her father hands the café over to her big brother Nick, Demi is devastated. Things take a further tumble for Demi when she uncovers a secret involving her boyfriend Wil. These two unexpected situations force Demi to reassess her life. Despite these setbacks, Demi decides to seize the day and travel to a place she has longed to visit – Italy. Hoping to repair her broken heart and learn more about Italian cooking, Demi decides to put her personal life issues aside in this wonderful part of the world. After the initial excitement of being in a different country wears off Demi is confronted with further problems. Demi becomes embroiled in a family fight and she experiences issues in the love department. But Demi’s saving grace comes in the form of Leo, a new friend who proves to her that she can change her set plans for the future. Will Demi embrace all that life throws at her?
Contemporary women’s fiction novelist Jodi Gibson makes a return to the publishing scene after her 2019 release The Memories We Hide with a fresh new title. The Five Year Plan is a family drama with a whole lot of romance and some Italian cooking adventures thrown in for good measure. Jodi Gibson’s latest is a light, zesty and heartwarming read.
In these uncertain times, any chance to partake in a spot of creative page-based travel is a welcome activity. The Five Year Plan thanks to author Jodi Gibson allowed me to indulge in a spot of armchair travel to Melbourne and Italy. Both these locations are appealing destinations and Gibson presents each location stage extremely well. The generous food, cooking and cultural sequences featured in The Five Year Plan provides plenty of interest to this appealing tale. I’m sure food lovers and those who have a weakness for anything Italian will adore The Five Year Plan.
Gibson’s characterisation is solid and I enjoyed observing the lead protagonist’s growth process. Demi is issued with more than a few curveballs as the story unfolds, but she takes it in her stride and she gracefully resets her life with a changed mindset. In terms of side cast members, Gibson illuminates her new novel with a number of colourful supporting protagonists. I enjoyed the interactions and dialogue exchanges between the cast of The Five Year Plan. I did find some choices, decisions and movements the characters of this story made didn’t always align with my own thoughts. This conflict area did put me at odds, but I was still invested in this story until the end.
In terms of romance, if you enjoy a whirlwind style love adventure, The Five Year Plan will definitely appeal. Leo was a great male love interest and he is matched well to Demi. I would have liked slightly more development and expansion of this love story but The Five Year Plan represents a sweet tale of embracing unexpected life plans. There are some predictable elements present in The Five Year Plan and Gibson wraps this one up nicely, ensuring that the parting message of going with what life throws at you is a concept we can all relate to.
A romantic journey with plenty of family turmoil and personal choices, The Five Year Plan is a pleasant read for fans of contemporary fiction.
*I wish to thank the author, Jodi Gibson, for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Five Year Plan is book #86 of the 2021 Australian Women Writers Challenge
3.5 stars
‘It’s cool to have someone to share this with. You know, it’s like all my dreams are coming true in one big hit. It hasn’t turned out as we’d envisaged in our five-year plan, but I think it’s turning out even better.’
The Five Year Plan is the second contemporary fiction title from Australian author Jodi Gibson. A story of life, plans, fate, choices, family, travel, food and love, The Five Year Plan is a feel-good novel that general fiction readers will lap up.
For thirty something Demi, life is all about making plans and looking to the future. Demi has her life set up exactly how she planned. With a boyfriend, a home and a secure job at her family’s café, the only thing left for Demi to achieve is running her family’s business. But Demi’s plans go by the wayside when she is issued with a huge shock. Demi has naturally assumed she will run her family’s café when the time is right, but when her father hands the café over to her big brother Nick, Demi is devastated. Things take a further tumble for Demi when she uncovers a secret involving her boyfriend Wil. These two unexpected situations force Demi to reassess her life. Despite these setbacks, Demi decides to seize the day and travel to a place she has longed to visit – Italy. Hoping to repair her broken heart and learn more about Italian cooking, Demi decides to put her personal life issues aside in this wonderful part of the world. After the initial excitement of being in a different country wears off Demi is confronted with further problems. Demi becomes embroiled in a family fight and she experiences issues in the love department. But Demi’s saving grace comes in the form of Leo, a new friend who proves to her that she can change her set plans for the future. Will Demi embrace all that life throws at her?
Contemporary women’s fiction novelist Jodi Gibson makes a return to the publishing scene after her 2019 release The Memories We Hide with a fresh new title. The Five Year Plan is a family drama with a whole lot of romance and some Italian cooking adventures thrown in for good measure. Jodi Gibson’s latest is a light, zesty and heartwarming read.
In these uncertain times, any chance to partake in a spot of creative page-based travel is a welcome activity. The Five Year Plan thanks to author Jodi Gibson allowed me to indulge in a spot of armchair travel to Melbourne and Italy. Both these locations are appealing destinations and Gibson presents each location stage extremely well. The generous food, cooking and cultural sequences featured in The Five Year Plan provides plenty of interest to this appealing tale. I’m sure food lovers and those who have a weakness for anything Italian will adore The Five Year Plan.
Gibson’s characterisation is solid and I enjoyed observing the lead protagonist’s growth process. Demi is issued with more than a few curveballs as the story unfolds, but she takes it in her stride and she gracefully resets her life with a changed mindset. In terms of side cast members, Gibson illuminates her new novel with a number of colourful supporting protagonists. I enjoyed the interactions and dialogue exchanges between the cast of The Five Year Plan. I did find some choices, decisions and movements the characters of this story made didn’t always align with my own thoughts. This conflict area did put me at odds, but I was still invested in this story until the end.
In terms of romance, if you enjoy a whirlwind style love adventure, The Five Year Plan will definitely appeal. Leo was a great male love interest and he is matched well to Demi. I would have liked slightly more development and expansion of this love story but The Five Year Plan represents a sweet tale of embracing unexpected life plans. There are some predictable elements present in The Five Year Plan and Gibson wraps this one up nicely, ensuring that the parting message of going with what life throws at you is a concept we can all relate to.
A romantic journey with plenty of family turmoil and personal choices, The Five Year Plan is a pleasant read for fans of contemporary fiction.
*I wish to thank the author, Jodi Gibson, for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Five Year Plan is book #86 of the 2021 Australian Women Writers Challenge
August 30, 2021
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for this eARC in exchange for a honest review.
“Che sarà sarà. Whatever will be, will be.”
•• What’s this about? ••
Demi has everything she wants. Her father is about to retire and going to leave the family café to her. She is living with her boyfriend Wil.
But suddenly, everything goes to the trash. Her father is giving the Café to Demi’s brother Nick. And Wil might be cheating or lying to her. And Demi doesn’t know what to do now with her life.
The five-year plan she had with her BFF is now an impossible dream to make true.
When she speaks with her friend Anna about her worries, she convinces her to travel to Italy and learn more about the culture, her heritage and the family business. And she does exactly that.
During the flight to Italy, she meets Leo. A man that is going to change her life. In Italy, she will know about the past, a feud, her parents’ history, and more.
•• What do I think about it? ••
I’m just going to say that this was a sweet romance novel. And a great novel about a great woman and how she chased all her dreams.
Let’s start with the characters. We have Demi. She is really focus in what she wants, but when her life gives a twist she has to rethink what she wants to do now. I really liked her character. She is a strong woman, always caring about her family and her future. I actually liked the message of the character: If everything doesn’t go the way you want, try with another perspective.
Leo… I loved him since the very first scene. He was always perfect with Demi. He never cared about the disputes between their families. And he acted so sweet during the competition. And I loved that he also followed his dreams at the end.
About their relationship… Love at first sight, a forbidden relationship between “enemies”, a well-developed insta-love. A beautiful and sweet relationship with great and lovely scenes. A loved their relationship so much. (I want to travel and see if it’s that easy to find a man like that).
The other characters… Anna, Brad, Francesca, Mateo and all of Demi’s relatives. Well, everyone was a good add to the story. I loved Anna and Demi’s friendship. Francesca and Mateo… well, I loved and hated them. And I have to say that Demi’s parents’ history was kind of irrelevant to me.
Anyway, I really enjoyed the book. At the beginning was a little bit slow to read, but then everything was so interesting and I couldn’t stop reading. And, as I said, I really liked the message of the story. You don’t need to plan every aspect of your life, just let it come and accept what life gives you.
“The best plans are the ones you didn’t make”.
“Che sarà sarà. Whatever will be, will be.”
•• What’s this about? ••
Demi has everything she wants. Her father is about to retire and going to leave the family café to her. She is living with her boyfriend Wil.
But suddenly, everything goes to the trash. Her father is giving the Café to Demi’s brother Nick. And Wil might be cheating or lying to her. And Demi doesn’t know what to do now with her life.
The five-year plan she had with her BFF is now an impossible dream to make true.
When she speaks with her friend Anna about her worries, she convinces her to travel to Italy and learn more about the culture, her heritage and the family business. And she does exactly that.
During the flight to Italy, she meets Leo. A man that is going to change her life. In Italy, she will know about the past, a feud, her parents’ history, and more.
•• What do I think about it? ••
I’m just going to say that this was a sweet romance novel. And a great novel about a great woman and how she chased all her dreams.
Let’s start with the characters. We have Demi. She is really focus in what she wants, but when her life gives a twist she has to rethink what she wants to do now. I really liked her character. She is a strong woman, always caring about her family and her future. I actually liked the message of the character: If everything doesn’t go the way you want, try with another perspective.
Leo… I loved him since the very first scene. He was always perfect with Demi. He never cared about the disputes between their families. And he acted so sweet during the competition. And I loved that he also followed his dreams at the end.
About their relationship… Love at first sight, a forbidden relationship between “enemies”, a well-developed insta-love. A beautiful and sweet relationship with great and lovely scenes. A loved their relationship so much. (I want to travel and see if it’s that easy to find a man like that).
The other characters… Anna, Brad, Francesca, Mateo and all of Demi’s relatives. Well, everyone was a good add to the story. I loved Anna and Demi’s friendship. Francesca and Mateo… well, I loved and hated them. And I have to say that Demi’s parents’ history was kind of irrelevant to me.
Anyway, I really enjoyed the book. At the beginning was a little bit slow to read, but then everything was so interesting and I couldn’t stop reading. And, as I said, I really liked the message of the story. You don’t need to plan every aspect of your life, just let it come and accept what life gives you.
“The best plans are the ones you didn’t make”.
September 21, 2021
How excited was I to be given the opportunity to review Jodi Gibson's latest book as an ARC reader from netgalle, in exchange for an honest review.
In a time where the world is unsettled, I found this read to one that made me feel good and give me hope.
I was taken back to my roots of home with the story line being in Melbourne. I felt nostalgic of all the land marks and could easily picture times when i had visited them. I felt like I was at home in my heart.
This is a lovely contemporary womaen's fiction with a touch of humour and a lot of heart. It is about Demi, who with her best friend, Anna make a five year plan - a road map of how they want in their lives in the next five years.
Demi had her plan for her life, yet sadly wasn't fulfilling it. Her world becomes to unravel, nothing it going like her five year plan. So she makes a decision to travel to her family's heritage town of Bari, in Italy to make a series of changes. Where she learns about resilience, family loyality, culture, their food and love.
While reading this book, it made me feel like I was walking the cobblestone streets of Bari and witnessing the Moretti family's trattoria through Demi's eyes - so vivid and descriptive. I felt like I was there. You cant but help and fall in love with all the characters and the setting. The love between Demi and Leo is one that you want to continue reading about forever, it truely makes your heart swell, as everyone deserves that kind of love. Plus, all the Italian foods mentioned made my mouth water. So much so, l just wished the recipes were waiting at the end of the story, so I could actually enjoy.
I absolutely loved this book and I really loved the message of the story. In that, you don't need to plan every aspect of your life, just let it come and accept what life gives you. As they say, "the best plans are the one's you didn't make".
"Che Sara sara. Whatever will be, will be".
In a time where the world is unsettled, I found this read to one that made me feel good and give me hope.
I was taken back to my roots of home with the story line being in Melbourne. I felt nostalgic of all the land marks and could easily picture times when i had visited them. I felt like I was at home in my heart.
This is a lovely contemporary womaen's fiction with a touch of humour and a lot of heart. It is about Demi, who with her best friend, Anna make a five year plan - a road map of how they want in their lives in the next five years.
Demi had her plan for her life, yet sadly wasn't fulfilling it. Her world becomes to unravel, nothing it going like her five year plan. So she makes a decision to travel to her family's heritage town of Bari, in Italy to make a series of changes. Where she learns about resilience, family loyality, culture, their food and love.
While reading this book, it made me feel like I was walking the cobblestone streets of Bari and witnessing the Moretti family's trattoria through Demi's eyes - so vivid and descriptive. I felt like I was there. You cant but help and fall in love with all the characters and the setting. The love between Demi and Leo is one that you want to continue reading about forever, it truely makes your heart swell, as everyone deserves that kind of love. Plus, all the Italian foods mentioned made my mouth water. So much so, l just wished the recipes were waiting at the end of the story, so I could actually enjoy.
I absolutely loved this book and I really loved the message of the story. In that, you don't need to plan every aspect of your life, just let it come and accept what life gives you. As they say, "the best plans are the one's you didn't make".
"Che Sara sara. Whatever will be, will be".
October 7, 2021
It’s the perfect climate to read a book set in Italy, and to travel vicariously via our memories and imagination– on a journey of fabulous food, family and love.
Jodi Gibson’s delightful #TheFiveYearPlan is a light hearted, sweet tale about a young Australian girl born of Italian parents who thinks she has her life sorted. Demi Moretti is well on the way to ticking off her five year plan for life - but as we know - life doesn’t always deal us the hand we plan for.
Demi is a woman on a mission - inheriting the family cafe in Melbourne once her father retires is all she has ever wanted - but life changes when her father sees a different future.
With a few twists and turns, Demi ends in Bari, Puglia, on a research trip where she meet her grandparents and cousins and is welcomed into the extended Moretti family. Of course, the Morettis in Bari own a family restaurant too - in the old town. That’s where the fun really begins.
Set in a lovely part of Italy, Jodi Gibson does a great job of describing the setting and traditional experiences that are unique to the country. We inhabit Bari through Demi’s eyes, smelling the espresso or tasting the nonnas’ orecchiette as she uncovers a mystery and long held family feuds. As Demi learns more about the family’s lives - she faces challenges of her own.
Enter Leo, a gorgeous sexy Italian and the rest is a delightful, delicious and enjoyable read to smile about.
Perfetto!
Jodi Gibson’s delightful #TheFiveYearPlan is a light hearted, sweet tale about a young Australian girl born of Italian parents who thinks she has her life sorted. Demi Moretti is well on the way to ticking off her five year plan for life - but as we know - life doesn’t always deal us the hand we plan for.
Demi is a woman on a mission - inheriting the family cafe in Melbourne once her father retires is all she has ever wanted - but life changes when her father sees a different future.
With a few twists and turns, Demi ends in Bari, Puglia, on a research trip where she meet her grandparents and cousins and is welcomed into the extended Moretti family. Of course, the Morettis in Bari own a family restaurant too - in the old town. That’s where the fun really begins.
Set in a lovely part of Italy, Jodi Gibson does a great job of describing the setting and traditional experiences that are unique to the country. We inhabit Bari through Demi’s eyes, smelling the espresso or tasting the nonnas’ orecchiette as she uncovers a mystery and long held family feuds. As Demi learns more about the family’s lives - she faces challenges of her own.
Enter Leo, a gorgeous sexy Italian and the rest is a delightful, delicious and enjoyable read to smile about.
Perfetto!
August 22, 2021
This is a perfect beach read! A lovely contemporary novel about Demi who had a plan for her life but wasn't really succeeding in fulfilling it. She makes a decision to travel to Italy and it starts a series of changes. It was a very quick read and it definitely put a smile on my face. I, personally, am obsessed with Italy and Italian food. One of my favorite trips I've ever taken was to the region of Puglia. The descriptions of cities in that region are extremely accurate and reading about all the delicious Italian food is definitely going to make any reader hungry.
As for things that weren't my cup of tea - I wish we got to know Leo and his family a little bit better.
This was a 3.75 stars book for me and I had a great time reading it!
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me a chance to read and review an ARC of this book.
As for things that weren't my cup of tea - I wish we got to know Leo and his family a little bit better.
This was a 3.75 stars book for me and I had a great time reading it!
Thank you to NetGalley for giving me a chance to read and review an ARC of this book.
September 4, 2021
The Five Year Plan - Jodi Gibson
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Brio Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily
At 33, DEMI Moretti’s five-year plan is on track. She’s moved in with her boyfriend Wil, and is waiting patiently for her father to retire so she can take over the running of the family café.
But when her father blindsides her by handing the café to her older brother Nick, and she suspects Wil might be cheating on her, Demi’s five year plan crumbles like crostoli.
I feel like this book got off to a slow start - but it definitely picked up. In places it was very predictable but it is a sweet, enjoyable book. With a main focus on self-discovery this is a quick book to read.
This is a nice escape to Italy that would make a great substitute for a summer holiday - the imagery is just so strong.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to NetGalley and Brio Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily
At 33, DEMI Moretti’s five-year plan is on track. She’s moved in with her boyfriend Wil, and is waiting patiently for her father to retire so she can take over the running of the family café.
But when her father blindsides her by handing the café to her older brother Nick, and she suspects Wil might be cheating on her, Demi’s five year plan crumbles like crostoli.
I feel like this book got off to a slow start - but it definitely picked up. In places it was very predictable but it is a sweet, enjoyable book. With a main focus on self-discovery this is a quick book to read.
This is a nice escape to Italy that would make a great substitute for a summer holiday - the imagery is just so strong.
Rating 4/5
October 17, 2021
Jodi Gibson isn't your average writer, she writes with passion and love. If food and travel is your thing, Jodi's book should be right up your ally. Demi has been waiting for her father to retire so she can take over her family café, after her father offers the café to her unhelpful brother. When her long term relationship takes a turn, Demi packs her bags and heads to Bari to learn her culture. The only problem was when sparks fly for the enemy, trouble stirs. Can Demi pull together her family and save her holiday fling? After finishing The Five Year Plan, I have developed a whole new respect for orecchiette. I 100% recommend this to anyone who likes food and romance.
August 24, 2021
When pushed to her breaking point, Demi finally hones into her own wants and needs. She travels to Italy to meet and learn cooking traditions from her extended family. Only, shortly after she arrives, she’s discovered she’s leaped right into generations-old family rivalries and secrets. Demi soon realizes what is important to her. She decides to lean on the family motto for future plan-making, “Che sarà sarà”.
While reading, the world-building made me feel like I was walking the cobblestone streets or witnessing the Moretti trattoria through Demi’s eyes - very vivid and descriptive. All the different food mentions made me feel hungry at times but seriously disappointed when I realized there weren’t any recipes waiting at the end.
I loved the characters. From the start, you could see the stubbornness of Demi’s father, the loyalty between Demi and her best friend, Anna, and the skepticism from her cousin Matteo all through Demi’s eyes. I realized how much I saw the story through Demi once she realized why her father and Matteo reacted the way they did.
Easily, I give this read 4 stars, and I would recommend it to anyone who loves an overall charming journey about finding yourself and love along the way.
Favorite Quotes: “The best plans were the ones you didn’t make.”
Author: Jodi Gibson can be found on Goodreads and has one other novel, The Memories We Hide, released in August 2019.
Number of Pages: 393 pages
Genres: Romance, General Fiction (Adult) Women’s Fiction
Huge thanks to NetGalley and Brio Books/ Verb Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
While reading, the world-building made me feel like I was walking the cobblestone streets or witnessing the Moretti trattoria through Demi’s eyes - very vivid and descriptive. All the different food mentions made me feel hungry at times but seriously disappointed when I realized there weren’t any recipes waiting at the end.
I loved the characters. From the start, you could see the stubbornness of Demi’s father, the loyalty between Demi and her best friend, Anna, and the skepticism from her cousin Matteo all through Demi’s eyes. I realized how much I saw the story through Demi once she realized why her father and Matteo reacted the way they did.
Easily, I give this read 4 stars, and I would recommend it to anyone who loves an overall charming journey about finding yourself and love along the way.
Favorite Quotes: “The best plans were the ones you didn’t make.”
Author: Jodi Gibson can be found on Goodreads and has one other novel, The Memories We Hide, released in August 2019.
Number of Pages: 393 pages
Genres: Romance, General Fiction (Adult) Women’s Fiction
Huge thanks to NetGalley and Brio Books/ Verb Publishing for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review!
October 19, 2021
This was such an upbeat read! It was exactly what I needed after uni exams finished, that is, a host of really well-written, fun, likeable and believable characters with enough drama in their lives to keep me turning the pages, but not so much angst I felt weighed down or unable to buy into what was happening. I can highly recommend this novel if you’re into uplifting chick-lit like books that are easy and enjoyable to read and will leave you on the kind of high that makes you feel anything is possible.
August 15, 2021
*Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review *
3.75 stars
In the Five Year Plan, Demi, our protagonist, is feeling dissatisfied with her life as she's failed to meet her goals within the specified time-frame, such as to take over her family's trattoria in Melbourne, and is feeling dissatisfied with her relationship.
Sort of Eat, Pray, Love meets Under the Tuscan Sun, she embarks on an adventure to learn more about her family history and food in Italy. I did enjoy her character development, although she did sometimes annoy me.
Overall, this was a cute, quick rom-com, with a focus on self-discovery.
I did feel like some of the characters were a bit overdramatic, but then again they're Italians, so it's probably not too far off the truth - not to offend any Italians here but there is a general flair for the dramatic, and you can't deny that!
Warning: The food descriptions in this book may induce severe hunger.
3.75 stars
In the Five Year Plan, Demi, our protagonist, is feeling dissatisfied with her life as she's failed to meet her goals within the specified time-frame, such as to take over her family's trattoria in Melbourne, and is feeling dissatisfied with her relationship.
Sort of Eat, Pray, Love meets Under the Tuscan Sun, she embarks on an adventure to learn more about her family history and food in Italy. I did enjoy her character development, although she did sometimes annoy me.
Overall, this was a cute, quick rom-com, with a focus on self-discovery.
I did feel like some of the characters were a bit overdramatic, but then again they're Italians, so it's probably not too far off the truth - not to offend any Italians here but there is a general flair for the dramatic, and you can't deny that!
Warning: The food descriptions in this book may induce severe hunger.
November 23, 2021
I loved this book and I totally wasn’t expecting everything that happened. I really liked Wil and Demi at the beginning and the progression of Wil as a character shocked me. I loved Demi and I was rooting for her throughout this book, I especially liked her relationship with Anna.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 and I’ll keep my eyes out for anything else by this author!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5 and I’ll keep my eyes out for anything else by this author!
September 10, 2021
I enjoyed the book and the characters and culture!!! Oh, and the food. I'm going to make pasta tonight!!!
October 9, 2021
A lovely light read and excellent chance for some armchair travelling. If you (like many of us) are looking for an escape from the doom and gloom of life, and in need of a feel good read, this is the one for you.
January 7, 2022
I really enjoyed this story full of hopes and wishes, set both in Australia and Italy. It follows the Moretti family, the ones who live in Melbourne, Australia and the ones that live in Bari, Italy.
Demi Moretti, and a friend, had written a five year plan of what they wanted to accomplish in those years. Demi had always wanted to take over her family's café when her dad retired, and she thinks she will get this wish in the near future, but out of the blue her father decides to leave the café to her brother.
She needs to get away after her dream is not realized, and she also has a falling out with someone special in her life,
Demi decides to fly to Italy to stay with relatives who have been estranged from her family for a long time. She wants to work in their trattoria and learn some authentic recipes from the Puglia region of Italy, which she can take home with her to the café in case her father has a change of heart.
Once there, she learns that there is more than just the long ago estrangement of her relatives to her family, but also an ongoing rivalry between her families trattoria and that of the Russo's competing trattoria.
This story is full of great characters, food, relationship, love, misunderstandings and wishes to make them all, right again.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Brio Books / Verb Publishing for a copy of this book.
Demi Moretti, and a friend, had written a five year plan of what they wanted to accomplish in those years. Demi had always wanted to take over her family's café when her dad retired, and she thinks she will get this wish in the near future, but out of the blue her father decides to leave the café to her brother.
She needs to get away after her dream is not realized, and she also has a falling out with someone special in her life,
Demi decides to fly to Italy to stay with relatives who have been estranged from her family for a long time. She wants to work in their trattoria and learn some authentic recipes from the Puglia region of Italy, which she can take home with her to the café in case her father has a change of heart.
Once there, she learns that there is more than just the long ago estrangement of her relatives to her family, but also an ongoing rivalry between her families trattoria and that of the Russo's competing trattoria.
This story is full of great characters, food, relationship, love, misunderstandings and wishes to make them all, right again.
I would like to thank NetGalley and Brio Books / Verb Publishing for a copy of this book.
January 17, 2022
Nice easy read with relatable characters and engaging plot. Thank you Jodi
November 3, 2021
I've never understood why women in America or Australia want to drop their current partner/spouse and rush off the the vineyards of Italy .. a la "Eat, Pray, Love". What's almost as bad as their irresponsible behavior is their apparent fixation with Italian food straight from the field; guys, you can get pizza, olives and spaghetti in your own country, and it's quality control is way better.
In this book, there are a couple of legitimate reasons for the lead character to visit Italy. Her Australian boyfriend has turned out to be a bit flaky, she's actually Italian, and her family runs a cafe.
The food descriptions, of course, annoyed me. But there's a story about a feud between Italian families, and its eventual resolution. All up, it's not a bad read. :)
In this book, there are a couple of legitimate reasons for the lead character to visit Italy. Her Australian boyfriend has turned out to be a bit flaky, she's actually Italian, and her family runs a cafe.
The food descriptions, of course, annoyed me. But there's a story about a feud between Italian families, and its eventual resolution. All up, it's not a bad read. :)
October 5, 2021
I devoured this book - and devour is the most appropriate word to use in this instance. I began it at the end of a very tough day jobby week and it was the perfect escape route. Food, travel, food, romance, food... Well done, Jodi - I'm off to make your lemon ricotta cake!
October 6, 2021
A tad predictable … this story is an enjoyable holiday read. I found the storyline a bit unrealistic but lots of good love stories are!
16+
16+
August 18, 2021
It really bothered me how much of a pushover the MC was. She left Australia after her father wouldn't leave her the café because she's a woman, overlooking her for her brother, and she called him out on it. But then she lets her moody cousin she's known for three months tell her that she can't see the man she loves anymore, and she says OK, sure? That's not character development.
September 7, 2021
I absolutely loved this book! It was a 5 star read for me, mostly because it transported me to another place with travel, tantalizing descriptions of food, a love story and, of course, a little drama. I read this book in a day because I was so into the characters and what was going to happen. Some of it was predictable but, I feel like that is to be expected with a "beach read" type book. I really enjoyed the character development in this book, especially with Demi and there were enough side characters to keep the story interesting and not overly focused on her. All in all I highly enjoyed reading it and look forward to more books by Jodi!
Thank you to Brio Books / Verb Publishing and #NetGalley for the ARC of #thefiveyearplannovel!
Thank you to Brio Books / Verb Publishing and #NetGalley for the ARC of #thefiveyearplannovel!
June 30, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my digital copy in exchange for an honest review. Honestly, I'm not sure what drew me to this book because it's not like it is amazing cover or anything but I am glad I requested it. Set partly in Australia and partly in Italy and centered around food, how could you not like it? Add in some growth and self discovery and an aging family feud and you have the makings of a great book. Oh, don't forget about the love story...you gotta have the love story. I would recommend it to anyone that likes contemporary romance. I would definitely read other books by this author.
August 31, 2021
Do NOT read 𝙏𝙃𝙀 𝙁𝙄𝙑𝙀 𝙔𝙀𝘼𝙍 𝙋𝙇𝘼𝙉 on an empty stomach! This book is filled with absolutely mouthwateringly delicious descriptions of food, don’t say I didn’t warn you. I adore pasta and Italian food in general so I may have looked up how to make orecchiette and look forward to recreating one of the dishes from the book.
𝙏𝙃𝙀 𝙁𝙄𝙑𝙀 𝙔𝙀𝘼𝙍 𝙋𝙇𝘼𝙉 is the first book I have ready by author Jodi Gibson but I loved it and am already looking forward to her next romance. This book is exactly what I needed this summer. We had 2 much anticipated family vacations cancelled due to the pandemic so it felt so good to get lost in the Italian scenery in this book. Jodi’s writing is so beautiful and captivating, while it has been a long time since I last visited the Mediterranean I felt like I was right back there.
Demi and her best friend Anna had devised a five-year plan a few years prior, a guide of sorts to get their lives back on track. Demi realizes that while she still wants everything on that list she hasn’t made much progress in bringing it to fruition. She finds herself frustrated when she finds out the family café (#1 on her list) which she has poured her whole heart into for years hoping to take it over once her father retires will instead be left to her eldest brother. Coupled with relationship trouble and a recent break up she decides to take action to bring her five-year plan to life. She sets off to Italy to finally meet her extended family, learn more about their culture and most importantly fuel her passion for food so she can convince her father he made a mistake not leaving the café to her.
I really related to Demi as I am in fact married to the man I chased across the world some 20 years ago. It is exhilarating to leave home and make a life of your own but it also leaves you vulnerable to leave everyone and everything you know behind. Demi and Leo’s love story was beautiful and full of passion, in some ways it reminded me of Romeo and Juliet with a bit of Under the Tuscan Sun mixed in. Their instant connection was amazing and while the odds were stacked against them I couldn’t help rooting for them right from the beginning. I mean isn’t that what we all hope for? A love that is so true and undeniable it sweeps you off your feet. But do you date to trust in it and put your heart on the line? Does love conquer all or was it in fact just a summer fling?
I would absolutely recommend this book to fellow contemporary romance lovers and if you are a foodie and/or travel obsessed it is an absolute 𝘮𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥.
Thank you to Jodi Gibson, Brio Books, and NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for my honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
𝙏𝙃𝙀 𝙁𝙄𝙑𝙀 𝙔𝙀𝘼𝙍 𝙋𝙇𝘼𝙉 is the first book I have ready by author Jodi Gibson but I loved it and am already looking forward to her next romance. This book is exactly what I needed this summer. We had 2 much anticipated family vacations cancelled due to the pandemic so it felt so good to get lost in the Italian scenery in this book. Jodi’s writing is so beautiful and captivating, while it has been a long time since I last visited the Mediterranean I felt like I was right back there.
Demi and her best friend Anna had devised a five-year plan a few years prior, a guide of sorts to get their lives back on track. Demi realizes that while she still wants everything on that list she hasn’t made much progress in bringing it to fruition. She finds herself frustrated when she finds out the family café (#1 on her list) which she has poured her whole heart into for years hoping to take it over once her father retires will instead be left to her eldest brother. Coupled with relationship trouble and a recent break up she decides to take action to bring her five-year plan to life. She sets off to Italy to finally meet her extended family, learn more about their culture and most importantly fuel her passion for food so she can convince her father he made a mistake not leaving the café to her.
I really related to Demi as I am in fact married to the man I chased across the world some 20 years ago. It is exhilarating to leave home and make a life of your own but it also leaves you vulnerable to leave everyone and everything you know behind. Demi and Leo’s love story was beautiful and full of passion, in some ways it reminded me of Romeo and Juliet with a bit of Under the Tuscan Sun mixed in. Their instant connection was amazing and while the odds were stacked against them I couldn’t help rooting for them right from the beginning. I mean isn’t that what we all hope for? A love that is so true and undeniable it sweeps you off your feet. But do you date to trust in it and put your heart on the line? Does love conquer all or was it in fact just a summer fling?
I would absolutely recommend this book to fellow contemporary romance lovers and if you are a foodie and/or travel obsessed it is an absolute 𝘮𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘥.
Thank you to Jodi Gibson, Brio Books, and NetGalley for an eARC in exchange for my honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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