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Love From Italy #2

An Escape to Remember

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She needed a getaway. What she found was a home.

When Louise surprises her boyfriend by returning early from a work trip, safe to say she wasn’t expecting to see him in flagrante delicto with another woman. Heart-torn and vowing to stay away from men, when Louise’s next project involves restoring an ageing hotel in Italy, she leaps at the chance to get away.

Managed by a crew of sextagenarians, the Grand Hotel del Monferrato needs all the love and care Louise can give it. But it’s hard to stay focused on the job when her thoughts keep straying to Vito, the reclusive and mysterious neighbour.

With his tragic past and her no-romance policy, Louise knows they can’t have a future. Yet something keeps pulling the two together…

A beautiful romance set in the hills of Turin, perfect for readers of Lucy Coleman and Alex Brown.

279 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 14, 2022

164 people are currently reading
331 people want to read

About the author

T.A. Williams

46 books589 followers
Firstly, my name isn't T A. It's Trevor. I write under the androgynous name T A Williams because 65% of books are read by women. In my first book, one of the (female) characters suggests the imbalance is due to the fact that men spend too much time getting drunk and watching football. I couldn't possibly comment. Ask my wife...
I've written all sorts: thrillers, historical novels, short stories and now I'm enjoying myself hugely Cozy Mysteries. I lived and worked in Italy for a number of years, married an Italian, and fell in love with the country. I set almost all my books in Italy and I hope that my love from the country shines through my work.
I‘ve lived all over Europe, but now I live in a little village in sleepy Devon, tucked away in south west England. I love the place. That’s why you’ll find leafy lanes and thatched cottages in most of my books. Oh, yes, and a black Labrador.
I've been writing since I was 14 and that is well over half a century ago. I'm now approaching 1 million books sold worldwide and I find it wonderful that people as far away as India and New Zealand are reading and enjoying my work. Thank you to everybody who reads my stuff.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
Profile Image for Sarah.
1,619 reviews177 followers
March 24, 2022
I really enjoyed this latest offering from Williams. Several books down the line and I have to agree, this writer has got the right formula once again. Truth be told, this is not an author whom I could read several books in close succession (and, let’s face it, there are few authors that you can read their novels one after another), but when I do pick up a William narrative, I know I am in for a summery treat.

Set in the beautiful Italian countryside, once again, Williams’ vivid descriptions create a lush setting that readers will want to jump into straight away. Despite the failing hotel, the surroundings appear idyllic and peaceful; it’s the perfect place for a retreat and you know that Louise is going to make it a success. Starting this project, Louise is romantically wounded after catching her long-term boyfriend cheating on her. Determined to use this new project as an opportunity for a fresh start, she is plagued by no less than four romantic opportunities (what a lucky girl!). Therefore, not only do readers witness Louise’s work at turning the hotel around, we also see how she deals with these various romantic interests.

Whilst the basic plot is quite similar to the other books I have read by this author, I still could not exactly foresee how the story would develop. I liked that there were some curve balls thrown into the plot, making it as refreshing as the beautiful weather. Each of the male characters are quite contrasting and reflect Louise at different stages of her life. I think this is quite symbolic as it represents the changes that Louise undergoes as she falls in love with the Italian countryside.

Despite being a cat lover, my favourite character was undoubtedly Leo the Labrador! His enthusiasm at greeting friends did make me chuckle and I loved how this added personality to the pet. He becomes a major part of the story, in my opinion, and it was great to see Louise establish such a close connection with this loveable pooch. Indeed, without Leo, I don’t think things would have progressed with Vito in the same way.

A fresh, easy story, I liked the feelings of summer that this book provoked. It certainly was a contrast to the weather outside! I enjoyed the uncomplicated plot and, for me, it is always the detailed setting (and food) that defines Williams’ writing. I am curious to know what this writer releases next as I do wonder whether this is a formula that could ever grow stale…

With thanks to Canelo, NetGalley and Rachel’s Random Resources for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Javier.
1,175 reviews304 followers
September 14, 2022
Review published in: https://diagnosisbookaholic.blogspot....

It’s not usual for male writers to write romance (at least I don’t know many), but T.A. Williams does and with An Escape To Remember he proves once again that he does it really well. Prepare yourself to be transported to the gorgeous hills of Turin where you will fall in love not only with the setting but with a cast of lovable characters. And the food! Let’s not forget about the food! 😄

After a shocking surprise when coming home from her last work trip, Louise vows to stay away from men and travels to Italy to get an old hotel up and running, but her new mysterious neighbor will put to the test her no-romance policy.

No one makes me wanna move to Italy as much as T.A. Williams. He really brings to life the Italian countryside with fantastic scenery descriptions that make you wish you were right there along the characters having some ice cream. Or a pizza. Or Luigino’s half and hour worth of antipasti! Once again…chef’s kiss! (pun intended) 👨‍🍳

Louise was a wonderful lead. She was kind and had warmth and despite her obvious attraction to certain reclusive neighbor she didn’t force anything and let the slow burning romance flow. Well, she had the help of gorgeous Leo, a black Labrador that, if you’ve read some of the author’s previous work, you’ll have learn to expect. I love how he always includes a dog in his books, not just as a useless element, but as another character in the story.

The rest of the cast was also great. Domenica, Luigino, Calogero…made my heart warm. And Vito! He certainly sounded dreamy even despite his initial detachment. It was cute seeing how Louise’s presence slowly made him come out of his shell.

The ending felt a bit abrupt and quick, but could that mean a sequel is in the future? 🤞🏻

Fantastic escapist read with beautiful writing, magnificent locations and delightful characters that will whisk you away to Italy for a few dreamy hours.

Thanks to NetGalley and Canelo for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review and to Rachel’s Random Resources for my spot in the blog tour.
Profile Image for Karen.
1,010 reviews580 followers
April 1, 2022
I’ve long seen many good reviews of this author’s books and have bought some of them but this is the first I’ve actually settled down to read…and I can only ask why did it take me so long!

Louise has the most wonderful sounding job, on paper anyway. A troubleshooter for a luxury hotel brand, she gets to travel all over the world. Unfortunately it doesn’t bode so well for her love life. When she discovers that her long term boyfriend has betrayed her, in the most brutal and hurtful way, she resolves to put her career first and stay away from men for a while. This is when her next assignment takes her to Northern Italy and to the run down and struggling Grand Hotel del Monferrato near Turin, purely kept alive by its loyal staff.

Louise is excellent at her job and soon throws herself into the task. But you know what they say about best laid plans and all that…for various reasons, Louise finds herself having to make serious decisions about her future life and career – but which way will she turn. In addition to the male human love interest(s), there is also a canine one – a gorgeous playful and loveable labrador called Leo.

I very much enjoyed my first outing with this author’s writing. The characters are engaging, (for the most part!) believable and with a narrative that touches not only on relationships but on topical matters such as conservation and climate change. This is Italy, so there will be delicious sounding food; all this and a deftly written romance strand that was neither too heavy nor wholly predictable – the teasing storyline kept me wondering. I really did like Louise although she frustrated me at times too, more so when I thought she was about to sabotage her own happiness. The setting is superb, I adore Italy anyway and I could easily visualise the Italian landscape that included vineyards, historic old towns and views to die for. The author’s knowledge of the location and language comes through clearly and the vivid descriptions makes the hotel and its setting a character in itself.

This is a lovely read and I very much enjoyed my escape to Italy and the hotel world for a few hours. I shall definitely be catching up with my other T.A. Williams’ books.
Profile Image for Rachel Gilbey.
3,356 reviews571 followers
March 10, 2022
T. A. Williams once again proves why he the the king of the Italian set romance!

Once more I have been transported to sun drenched Italy, in a gorgeous countryside setting, a rather energetic black lab, and at one point there was even the potential of four men for Louise's heart. Although from the outset one was far more obvious than the others, although whether they would ever get together is something I'm not willing to spoil!

And there is a clear love affair with Italian food present too, with the most fabulous chef at the hotel that Louise is trying to revamp and turn around. In fact I really loved all the staff this initially run down, outdated hotel came with, and having finished the book I'm sorry to leave my new Italian family behind.

I just loved everything about this book, and wish I could have been transported between the pages to experience life in the hills of Turin for myself! Another simply triumphant story from one of my favourite authors to escape with.

Thank you to Canelo and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
1,722 reviews110 followers
March 22, 2022
This book was very predictable and unfortunately I didn’t enjoy it as much as I hoped I would. I’ve read T.A Williams books before but, this one just didn’t hit the spot for me. I loved the setting and enjoyed all the characters but, I guessed the ending very quickly. I hope that the next book I read by this author is better and different. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Elaine - Splashes Into Books.
3,883 reviews136 followers
April 8, 2022
Louise flew home early, only to discover
Her boyfriend in bed with another!
Vowing not to trust a man again
She decides work will heal her pain.

She’s given a project in Italy,
Reincarnating an old hotel to the best it can be.
The few but friendly staff and near neighbours, too,
Work together to achieve the best they can do.

It is a heartwarming read, simply sublime,
With choices and healing, great people and clime,
Age is no barrier and nor is the past
For developing a love that will last.

The descriptions are vivid, making you feel like you're there,
From scenery to vistas, tasty meals and great fare.
There's also the requisite black Labrador, too,
He's a rascally pup who loves to jump up to greet you!

I thoroughly enjoyed escaping into this great read,
It's the sort of story that I always need.
There's one thing for certain, I have to say
This book is an escape to remember in every way!

For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you,
A great escape to Italy and this is my honest review.
Profile Image for Mystica.
1,755 reviews32 followers
March 17, 2022
Louise thought her re five years. She did not expect to walk into the house and find him in bed with another. The offer of going to Italy to supervise and upgrade a neglected property seemed the ideal out for her which she gladly took.

The story evolves from Louise going to Italy and finding the property challenging and interesting with a nice mix of characters in the hotel and the inscrutable Professor Vito with an ex boyfriend Paolo also thrown into the mix. More than Louise's budding romance, I found the setting and background very enjoyable and the work involved in getting a neglected property to par fascinating reading. The addition of all the food of Turin included in the story was mouth
watering as well.

Altogether a very pleasant read.
Profile Image for Carla.
7,630 reviews179 followers
April 29, 2024
An Escape to Remember is the 2nd book in the Love From Italy series by T.A. Williams. Each book is a standalone story, and it is more than just a romance. Louise has been hurt and broadsided by her boyfriend and his infidelity. She needs to get away, so when she is offered the opportunity to restore an ageing hotel in Italy that her company has recently purchased, she eagerly accepts. The Grand Hotel del Monferrato is located in the beautiful Italian countryside of Turin, and managed by a group of sextagenarians. Louise is not looking for romance, so when not one, but four opportunities for come her way, she graciously turns them down. She works with the management team, and turns the hotel around to become a much in demand boutique hotel with amazing cuisine. The previous owner had a son, Vito, who didn't want to run the hotel. He is a professor, who has no interest in a relationship, so Vito and Louise feel safe becoming friends.

One thing I love about William's books are his beautiful descriptions of the locations where his books are set. As well as that, he creates wonderful characters that make me want to sit down with them and have a coffee and conversation. I loved the staff at the hotel, those trying to keep it alive with little or no resources. Domenica, Luigino, Calogero were all great secondary characters that add much to the story. I loved their backstories. Vito is a recluse, he wants to be left alone with his memories and secrets. As he and Louise get to know each other, he begins to open up and share his secrets, which of course, helps him to heal. I enjoyed this story of new beginnings and personal growth. With decisions about their lives to be made, not only does Louise and Vito have a new beginning, but so do Domenica and Calogero. Of course, one of my favourite characters is Leo the Labrador. Leo is Vito's pup and he is not quite trained yet. He is friendly and exuberant and often ends up either knocking someone over, or getting mud all over their clothes. This is a romance, but it is also a book of figuring out what you want out of life, new beginnings, personal growth and healing. My one niggle is that the ending seemed rushed and a bit abrupt. The audiobook was narrated by Helen Duff. She does a nice job with the audiobook and it made for enjoyable listening.
Profile Image for Emma Usher.
37 reviews
January 25, 2025
Nice story set in Italy, great characters and heart warming too. Makes me want to visit Italy for some amazing Italian food 🇮🇹
Profile Image for Claire Hudson.
33 reviews1 follower
April 28, 2025
Because I told myself I would review each book I read this year: I contemplated rating this 1☆ - I found it in my neighborhood book swap and thought it looked fun and refreshing. While the location was great, the plot was stale and executed poorly. The love interests have little chemistry, and Williams uses many romance tropes (including one of the worst: an ex lover who can't take a hint) without making them enjoyable. For her, it's love at first sight, whereas he truly doesn't appear to want a relationship. I spent the majority of the novel wanting her to stop bothering him and to stop finding ways to spend time together. She should have spent more time with the hotel staff who, with credit to Williams, are enjoyable characters; the author could have come up with more ways for Vitto to initiate conversation with her other than his dog constantly bowling her over (although I do love a labrador character). I don't want to be harsh, but it seems like the author does not consume/enjoy romance books and just wanted to fill the brief for the market. Other reviews suggest it doesn't meet the standard of his other novels, but I won't be reading any more.
Profile Image for Helen - Great Reads & Tea Leaves .
1,067 reviews
April 6, 2022
‘Maybe a life that saw her jetting off all over the place wasn’t the be all and end all. Maybe what she needed was to settle down and escape to the country. Why not put down roots somewhere like this?’

I have always enjoyed T.A. Williams books, easygoing romance written by a male is rather unique and he always does it well. This one is based in Turin (most of his books occur in Italy) and is overflowing with the beautiful Italian countryside, delicious food and engaging characters.

This story is set in an old hotel in need of renovation and the lead character Louise’s job is to bring it up to scratch. Much like Louise, you are sure to fall in love not only with the aging workers at the hotel, or even the array of love interests. No, it is once again the Italian culture that T. A. Williams so perfectly captures - lush settings that shall have you pining for an Italian getaway to the hills of Turin and all the gourmet cuisine to accompany it.

‘… leave all this?’ Louise indicated the surroundings with her hands. ‘This house, the hills, the vineyards, the woodland, not to mention the food and the wine. It’s your very own rural paradise.’

Even though this is a sweet romance and feel good book, I did find this one didn't quite hit the spot as others in the past have done. I felt there were too many love interests and that had the opposite effect for me. It made the story somewhat predictable rather than wondering who would ultimately win Louises’s affections with an ending that all came rather suddenly. That being said, I enjoyed venturing away with Williams once more - a nice story, with nice people that resulted in a nice piece of escapism.

‘Something told her the Grand Hotel del Monferrato was going to prove to be a perfect place of escape and a little oasis of calm. And she could certainly do with some of that.’










This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
Profile Image for Chantelle Hazelden.
1,470 reviews64 followers
February 15, 2022
I actually read my first Williams book way back in 2018 and I've enjoyed each and every one his subsequent books that I've had the chance to read.

The writing style is always simple yet meaningful.

This time round we are introduced to Louise. A woman, who after discovering her now ex cheating on her, gets the chance to fly to Italy to work (and perhaps play).

Romance is the last thing on her mind when she arrives.

Work is her one and only focus.

That is until Vito!

The reclusive, mystery neighbour who also happens to be the previous owner of the hotel that she is in charge of renovating and rejuvenating.

Swoon.

What transpires is a beautiful, slow-building love story. One that is derived from friendship - the best kind in my opinion. But of course what is a romance novel without a bit of drama.

What I adore is the fact that even the more emotional parts of the story are I guess gently done. There is no big explosion.

I guess you could say it is all quite mature.

And in case you were wondering, a happy ending is indeed provided.

If I had to criticise, I'd say that I would have liked an epilogue as I wanted the romance to last for a few more pages.
Profile Image for Debbie Rozier.
1,349 reviews85 followers
March 23, 2022
I have read several books by this author and have loved each and every one of them.

This one is set near Turin, Italy and has the most delicious food descriptions that literally had my mouth watering the entire read. It has the setting of an old hotel that is in need of updating and a main character that is a hard worker with a great attitude.

It has a sweet romance and is a perfect feel good book.

The main character, Louise, travels the world getting hotels that her boss purchased up and running efficiently. After catching her boyfriend in bed with someone else, Louise has sworn off men.

When her next assignment takes her to a grand old hotel, Louise finds a connection with the dedicated staff. She is also intrigued by the hotel’s previous owner, Vito, who is a college professor and lives down the road from the hotel.

He has a a deep sadness about him yet Louise can’t seem to stop thinking about him.

Food, wine, love, and a sweet dog named Leo all make for a perfect rainy day/escape the daily grind read.
Profile Image for Quu.
27 reviews
April 29, 2022
I've enjoyed many of this author's books before but I must say, this was a bit of a different reading experience. I found it even more predictable than the other books.

Furthermore, in romance I often enjoy the growth of the leading characters' relationship, the discussions, getting to know each other, the flirting, in the best cases some good banter, etc. If the book has "falling in love with the first sight", I most probably won't enjoy it as much. Here I thought the process to "I think I'm in love with this man" was kind of nonexistent? They met on walks, they had a few talks, she liked how he looked, then thought he was smart, and that's it.

Also, at one point Vito comments on Louise's body that she looks very slim. I was actually really annoyed by that, because if anyone commented my body like that I'd be really mad! And as always with this author, there were a few really unnecessary diet/diet culture-minded comments which I'd rather not see, especially in a book this recent.
Profile Image for Fiona Wilson.
Author 2 books57 followers
February 27, 2022
I simply love this authors books, and this one is no different.

The common theme of a slow burning love story, with added complications, was told brilliantly. There is also the other theme of having a Labrador in all of the authors stories. This is one of my favourite things about his work, as well as his attention to detail. I know that the author has travelled to most, if not all, of the areas he sets his stories and that shows in abundance.

I am once again blown away by the ability of a book to draw me in so deep that I read it in one sitting.

Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for providing a copy.
Profile Image for Anne Pascucci.
325 reviews8 followers
March 21, 2022
Thank you to Netgalley for an early copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Unfortunately I did not finish this book at 41%. I feel it had potential with the Italian setting but the chapters became repetitive for me and I wasn't invested in the characters. It seemed like the main character was reminding us that she was not ready for a new relationship so soon after her breakup every other paragraph between her inner monolouge, speaking to her mother, or her annoying friend who kept trying to push her to date her rich boss.
Profile Image for Julie.
Author 5 books229 followers
March 24, 2022
Trevor's books always ofer a welcome escape and what could be better than a few hours spent with some amazing characters in a delightful location? Descriptions of wonderful Italian delicacies perhaps? Tick. A slow-burning romance? Tick. A dark, moody hero with a hidden past? Tick. This book is a feast for the eyes and the tastebuds, limited only by your imagination. Thank you for transporting me to the hills of Turin; a destination that will hopefully become a reality before too long.

Profile Image for Mia.
283 reviews2 followers
March 1, 2022
The one word that came to my mind after reading was 'breezy'...

This was a heartwarming, breezy story with sweet characters...

My first read by the author and was a good read.
Profile Image for My_every_day_chilling.
407 reviews26 followers
July 26, 2023
Ratings:
Audio: 5 stars
Story: 4 stars

Romance: 1/5
Chemistry: 2/5
Spice: 0/5 (it's a clean one y'all)
Humor: 2/5
Cry factor: 0/5
Drama: 4/5
Suspense: 0/5
Foul language: 0/5

My thoughts:
- I really enjoyed this book, but I know I enjoyed it more because of the narrator, She was brilliant, did all the tones very well and her Italian accent was just brilliant. I loved listening to her. I didn't even want to speed up the narration to get on with the story because she was such a pleasure to listen to. % big stars to the narrator.
- I'm a fan of romance novels where romance is the main thing going on, but this book was more about our FMC going about her life, her work and in the end finding her love. I am not a fan of these type of books, but I was pleasantly surprised, I actually enjoyed this story very very much. Was it the story itself, was it the narrator, I truly don't know, but I loved it.
- However, I did give the story 4 stars. It wasn't because of the lack of romance, because I do think of this as a drama story, sprinkled with romance. But because it ended do quickly! I really thought we needed one more charter with everything going well for everyone, an epilogue. Ending it the way it did, felt like a big piece was missing, the most important piece. It would have given the reader a more heart warming closure. A reason to sigh happily with the ending of another great book.
- There was a male character that I got very frustrated with, but this, as I like to say, was all due to good writing. But one thing I loved about this writer, it all turned out well in the end.
- Speaking of the author, I was very surprised to find out it's a guy! It was my guy author! And I was wowed. I am definitely putting him on my favorite author list!

Overall:
- This was a clean drama, with a bit of romance. Our FMC goes through her life while trying to sort out her heart and finding the right man to make her happy.
- It is set in a most beautiful place in the mountains of Italy. No I've never been there but this book took me there and I loved it!
- The audio book is absolutely lovely to listen to, such a pleasure.
- Single POV.
-Light and easy read.

Tropes:
- Cheating ex
- Italian landscape
- Hotel business
- MMC dog owner
- Mountain views
- Italian accents
- Matchmaker FMC
- Hotel fixer-upper

Thank you NetGalley for letting me ARC the Audio book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Galina.
38 reviews3 followers
March 24, 2022
An Escape to Remember by T.A. Williams is a glorious romance, set in the hills of Turin.

When Louise Rhodes arrives home from her work trip a day earlier, hoping to surprise her boyfriend Tommy, she is shocked to find him in bed with another woman.

Louise is heart-broken.

Thankfully, her boss Joseph (unaware of the drama at home) comes with a grand project. He wants Louise to go to Italy, as he has just signed off on a deal to purchase a hotel in the hills of north-west Italy, just below the Alps.

The Grand Hotel del Montferrato is old, quirky and picturesque, and has been operating for over a hundred years, but it's "bearly ticking over at present" and needs a major renovation.

Louise is glad to have a new purpose. As it happens, the hotel is in dire need of renovations, but the staff working there prove to be loyal and hard-working.

Having arrived to Italy, Louise is determined to stay away from men.
Joseph invites Louise for dinner, and their conversation leaves her confused. Is Joseph interested in her?

Her old flame, Paolo has re-appeared in her life. He was Louise's first real great love. He's having marital problems back in the States, and considers it a sign from above, that he and Louise might get back together.

Tommy is still pretty much in her thoughts too.

And there's an enigmatic Count Vittorio Emanuele Dellarosa, whose family has owned the hotel for many years. He inherited the failing business and sold it along with everything else. Vittorio is a recluse, who lives in the old mill, quite close to the hotel, with Leo, his big brown Labrador.

There is a wave of sadness surrounding him, he works as a professor at Turin University but barely ventures in the local society, as if he has given up on any chance of finding his personal happiness. What is the tragedy behind his seclusion?

Vito appears to be polite, but very reserved, unlike his dog Leo who seems to be deliriously happy to meet her every time she walks in the countryside around the hotel.

Louise is excellent at her job as a company troubleshooter for the luxury hotel chain, and gradually the hotel is returning to the glory days. She knows what she is doing, but finds it not that easy to stay focused purely on the job, as she keeps thinking of the handsome hermit Vito.

His tragic past and her newly-minted policy of staying away from men make it almost impossible for any romance to bud. Will Louise and Vito have a chance to open their hearts to each other?

An Escape to Remember has been a perfect antidote to depressive thoughts, and I needed a bit of happy escapism, with beautiful landscapes and gorgeous food. And though I'm not a dog person, I couldn't but smile at the antics of the impulsive and uninhibited Leo. He is such a character that he often steals the scenes.

The Italian setting is so vividly described, you feel transported to Italy. The author has an impressive knowledge of the Italian cuisine too. I kept nodding my head at the food descriptions, yes, I'd be happy to eat that, and that, and that. Bravo for all the Italian food desciptions, totally spot on!

Fabulous escapism with oodles of atmosphere and romance. Made me want to re-visit Italy straight away.
Profile Image for Julie.
2,654 reviews43 followers
April 10, 2022
T A Williams is back with a wonderfully romantic Italian escape that hits all the right notes: An Escape to Remember.

When Louise decided to surprise her boyfriend by returning home early from a business trip, she never imagined that she would walk in and find him in a very compromising position with another woman! Heartbroken, shocked and absolutely livid, Louise vows to stay away from men and to throw herself completely into her job – and her next assignment will end up providing her with the escape she so desperately needs: restoring a dilapidated hotel in Italy.

The Grand Hotel del Monteferrato is falling to rack and ruin and Louise is certainly going to have her work cut out for her. Managed by a group of eccentric pensioners, the hotel needs all the love and attention Louise can give it. Never one to shirk from a challenge, Louise rolls up her sleeves and gets to work – only handsome and brooding neighbour Vito is proving to be quite a distraction…

Romance was meant to be off the cards for Louise, but could Vito make her change her mind? Her Italian neighbour has got secrets of his own that could put paid to any hope of a future together, but will love manage to triumph over all the obstacles standing in their way? Or will their doubts and insecurities ruin this unexpected chance at happiness?

You simply cannot beat a T A Williams novel for superb romantic escapism and he has certainly come up trumps with his latest novel. Full of wit, charm and heart, An Escape to Remember is a compelling tale about starting over and second chances set against a majestic Italian backdrop that will sweep readers away. Louise is a terrific heroine it is hard not to root for and her journey to her happy ending is poignant, emotional and very entertaining.

A lovely feel-good romance where the pages just turn themselves, T A Williams’ An Escape to Remember is simply enchanting.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
1,395 reviews14 followers
August 10, 2023
*3.5 Stars On My Instagram Account*

"Something told her the Grand Hotel del Monferrato was going to prove to be a perfect place of escape and a little oasis of calm; and she could certainly do with some of that."

Couldn't we all do with a bit of calm escape from our hectic lives? The very tranquil An Escape to Remember by renowned romance author T.A. Williams definitely feels like a relaxing hot bath after a stressful day.

Louise finds her man in their bed with someone else. This betrayal gives her the push to take a job offer to renovate a hotel in the hills of northern Italy.

Italy is its own character, as is the hotel, in this very beautifully descriptively written story. It makes you want to plan your own escape to this lush location. Oh, and the food and wine talk. I actually drooled at one point.

As for our Louise, she is living her best life. She's sworn off men but still has her share of non stop suitors but really for her, there's no spark with them until...slowly, very slowly, she finds herself spending more time with the reclusive Vito, the hotel's previous owner.

This romance is very descriptive for every scene, from the location, the clothes, the meals, the weather and so on. Narrator #helenduff is fantastic with the many accents in this European story. Her soft spoken voice is perfect for an ASMR podcast. In a romance describing the calm breeze, the rolling hills and sweet wine it's almost too soothing and I nodded off at some points.

The relationship between the no more men Louise and wary of women Vito is quietly growing as they find themselves constantly drawn together. Also, in Vito's favor is his very friendly, too cute, scene stealing black Labador Leo. Escaping to Italy for a bit of romance is never a bad idea.

I received a free copy of this audiobook from Saga Egmont Audio via #netgalley for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

**This Review Is For The Audiobook**
Profile Image for Barbara Schultz.
4,176 reviews303 followers
July 28, 2023
Title: An Escape to Remember
Author: T.A. Williams
Series: Love from Italy #2
Narrator: Helen Duff
Publisher: Saga Egmont Audio
Genre: Romance
Audiobook Pub Date: August 9, 2023
My Rating: 2.6 rounded up.

Romance author Katherine Center tells us that reading romance stories is fun.
She also tells readers that all stories have an emotion this emotions fuels anticipation.
 Mysteries ~ curiosity
 Thriller ~ Heart Thumping
 Horror ~ Fear
 Romance ~ gives us the sense that something is going to get better; something to look forward to.
So yes this story is predictable.
I have read T. A. Williams|7201416] “Armstrong and Oscar Cozy Mysteries” and loved them! However they all had a mystery to them in addition to some romance.

Italy is a wonderful background for any story.

Have to say that narrator Simon Mattock spoiled me; as he did such a great job performing the characters in that series. Helen Duff the narrator in this story was okay. Not sure if it was her performance or the story itself as I didn't love this.🤔
I definitely will read another T.A. Williams story but not so sure about this series.

Want to thank NetGalley and Sage Egmont Audio Books this early Audiobook.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for August 9, 2023
Profile Image for M.W. Arnold.
Author 8 books123 followers
April 12, 2022
I've just come back from an Italian holiday; courtesy of T A Williams. Not only does this author write wonderful romance, he also fills your stomach with wonderful food, and I'm always hungry when I read one of this wonderful authors novels.
Packed with great characters, even the typical rat of an ex-boyfriend didn't turn out to be such a rat after all, which made a very nice change.
I've no idea if this is based upon a real hotel which the author has visited, but if it is, I want to go there. The staff sound terrific and the location is out of this world.
Chalk another triumph for the author up.
My thanks to Canelo and Netgalley for this copy which was reviewed honestly.
Profile Image for Bethany.
701 reviews4 followers
August 10, 2023
I really wanted to enjoy this one, however I was bored reading it. Louise walks in on her boyfriend with another woman in their bed. When an opportunity comes up for a project in Italy, Louise jumps on it right away. Louise meets Vito at the project in Italy and falls for him. Unfortunately, he has had a tragic past and has vowed never to love again. I love books set in Italy. There didn’t seem to be any kind of spark or chemistry between Louise and Vito. The story felt repetitive, and I found my mind wondering every time I tried to read it. This story was too much of a slow burn for my liking. Everything just felt OK about this book, nothing memorable. I do love the idea of escaping life though. Everyone needs that once in a while.
Profile Image for Kim.
2,120 reviews64 followers
May 23, 2022
Another delightful read by TA Williams. He quickly transports you into another dream setting, adding to your travel bucketlist, dream jobs and a gorgeous choc lab in the mix.
Louise reeling from a nasty shock flies out to Italy to try to turn a hotel around. She's a troubleshooter and she sees the magic in the hotel and how she can bring it back to glory. The hotel has some wonderful staff and collects visitors in an elderly Rolls Royce. Throw in a love interest and all the boxes are ticked. He never fails to deliver a page turning adventure.
Profile Image for adventuresinfictionland.
118 reviews3 followers
October 5, 2023
I loved everything about this book. The narrator, the characters, the setting, the plot--it was just a feel good escape and felt like a vacation to the Italian Countryside. I was unfamiliar with T. A. Williams work before this (also didn't realize this was book 2 in a series but I didn't feel like I was missing anything but not reading the other book first--I will go back and read that soon!) This was a book that I could--and will as I go back and read in series order--get lost in again and again. I can't wait to read more of T. A. Williams work.
Profile Image for Joanne Lewis.
300 reviews13 followers
March 28, 2022
Easily one of my favourite authors, any book by T A Williams is guaranteed to transport you to its location, in this case, the hills just outside of Turin.

As always, the novel captures the Italian countryside perfectly, with the sights, sounds and delicious delicacies of the region exquisitely described and certainly enticing you to add it to your must-visit list!

Add in a touch of romance and the trademark Labrador with his infectious character and you have the perfect summer read!

In this tale, it’s central character Louise who is charmed by mysterious local Vito, although both are carrying baggage from previous relationships which threatens to prevent the undeniable spark between them from developing further.

With likeable characters and an entrancing location, it’s easy to fall under this book’s spell. Grab yourself a copy today!
Profile Image for Sheryl.
16 reviews
April 24, 2022
Fantastic book!! I didn’t want it to end. I’ve read all his books which are so beautifully descriptive to the country it is set in.
However, this one I think was my favorite!
The story he weaves through the story line characters into the beautiful local settings of Turin Italy here, makes me wish I could live there and find happiness!

TA you are my favorite writer! Don’t make me wait too long for the next one! Well done!!👏👏👏👏👏
Shoshana
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