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Seasons of Belle #1
The Summer of Everything
For twenty years, Belle Hamilton has waited patiently for her partner Ben to propose. When he drops a spectacular bombshell on their relationship, everything she holds dear crumbles around her.
With her life in tatters, she packs her bags and heads to Europe, finding her way to the cobbled streets of Rome.
There she develops an unexpected relationship with Italian bartender Andre, while discovering that happiness can be found and dreams can come true, if she follows her heart.
But it’s not all smooth sailing for these star-crossed lovers. Past hurts and cultural expectations are a stubborn foe, and what has always seemed so perfect between them may prove to be their ultimate undoing.
With her life in tatters, she packs her bags and heads to Europe, finding her way to the cobbled streets of Rome.
There she develops an unexpected relationship with Italian bartender Andre, while discovering that happiness can be found and dreams can come true, if she follows her heart.
But it’s not all smooth sailing for these star-crossed lovers. Past hurts and cultural expectations are a stubborn foe, and what has always seemed so perfect between them may prove to be their ultimate undoing.
288 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 13, 2022
40 people are currently reading
144 people want to read
About the author
Michelle Montebello
19 books236 followersMICHELLE MONTEBELLO is a writer from Sydney, Australia where she lives with her family.
She is the internationally bestselling author of The Quarantine Station, The Lost Letters of Playfair Street and The Forever Place.
Her books have won numerous accolades. The Quarantine Station won the 2023 International Book Excellence Award while The Lost Letters of Playfair Street won the 2020 ARRA Award for Favourite Historical Romance. The Forever Place was a 2022 ARRA and RWA RuBY Award finalist.
Michelle has been shortlisted three times for ARRA Australian Author of the Year.
For all Michelle’s book news, subscribe to her newsletter at www.michellemontebello.com.au.
Reach out to Michelle on social media:
Facebook: https://bit.ly/2JA6EsB
Instagram: https://bit.ly/2HzdOeP
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2LzG4Aj
She is the internationally bestselling author of The Quarantine Station, The Lost Letters of Playfair Street and The Forever Place.
Her books have won numerous accolades. The Quarantine Station won the 2023 International Book Excellence Award while The Lost Letters of Playfair Street won the 2020 ARRA Award for Favourite Historical Romance. The Forever Place was a 2022 ARRA and RWA RuBY Award finalist.
Michelle has been shortlisted three times for ARRA Australian Author of the Year.
For all Michelle’s book news, subscribe to her newsletter at www.michellemontebello.com.au.
Reach out to Michelle on social media:
Facebook: https://bit.ly/2JA6EsB
Instagram: https://bit.ly/2HzdOeP
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2LzG4Aj
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
April 10, 2022
After twenty years together, Belle was shocked speechless when her partner, Ben, whom she was expecting to finally propose, told her they were over, that he was seeing someone else. Belle was shattered, having loved Ben for so long. She moved into her best friend Riley’s home, and when Riley left for London a few weeks later, Belle was by her side. With money becoming tight, the weeks in London were special memories and Belle and Riley decided to go to Rome for a few days before any major decisions were made…
A young woman they’d met, Avery, was also in Rome, working at her uncle’s trattoria alongside her cousin, Andre. Belle, who had wanted to be a chef all her adult life and loved cooking, found herself working in Valentina’s alongside Uncle Benito. The weeks turned into months and Belle and Andre became close, while Riley worked in an art gallery. When trouble arose and Riley and Belle needed to leave Rome quickly, they headed for Paris. But what would happen to Andre and Belle’s relationship? Could Belle let him go and return to Sydney?
The Summer of Everything (originally titled "Interwoven") by Aussie author Michelle Montobello is outstanding! Fresh, enticing, filled with the wonder, romance and delicious food of Italy, and the excitement of London and Paris, I thoroughly enjoyed Belle and her journey toward her independence. An exceptional read, the first in the Seasons of Belle series, The Summer of Everything is one I recommend highly. I’m looking forward to the second in the series, very much.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
A young woman they’d met, Avery, was also in Rome, working at her uncle’s trattoria alongside her cousin, Andre. Belle, who had wanted to be a chef all her adult life and loved cooking, found herself working in Valentina’s alongside Uncle Benito. The weeks turned into months and Belle and Andre became close, while Riley worked in an art gallery. When trouble arose and Riley and Belle needed to leave Rome quickly, they headed for Paris. But what would happen to Andre and Belle’s relationship? Could Belle let him go and return to Sydney?
The Summer of Everything (originally titled "Interwoven") by Aussie author Michelle Montobello is outstanding! Fresh, enticing, filled with the wonder, romance and delicious food of Italy, and the excitement of London and Paris, I thoroughly enjoyed Belle and her journey toward her independence. An exceptional read, the first in the Seasons of Belle series, The Summer of Everything is one I recommend highly. I’m looking forward to the second in the series, very much.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
April 11, 2022
This was the first book of Michelle Montebello’s that I read but then it was called Interwoven and I knew that Michelle would become one of my favourite authors, her stories are beautifully written with emotion and heart they bring characters to life and pull readers in, Michelle has given this story a re-write and so beautifully and I loved being with Belle again, if you have never read a Michelle Montebello story then start here you will not be sorry.
Belle had been waiting for twenty years for the love of her life to propose, but Ben decided that it was not going to happen, Belle is beyond devastated, and she has given up so much for Ben, her dreams of becoming a chef and a mother. When her best friend Riley decides to take off to London, Belle makes a snap decision to go with her.
From London they make their way to Rome to meet up with Avery who they met on their flight, this short trip will change Belle’s life when she finds work in a Trattoria doing what she loves. Belle also finds herself in a relationship with Andre the bartender and soon her heart is locked with Andre’s but different cultures and their pasts could very well be a problem and then a problem at the trattoria see Belle and Riley having to flee Rome and quickly.
Arriving in Paris Belle and Riley do some sightseeing, Andre and Avery arrive to visit but things don’t go as planned as Belle’s world is rocked, what will come with the future for these two wonderful people will Belle and Andre find love and happiness?
This story is so gorgeously written, firstly the food oh my god I wanted to be there with them eating, but the heartfelt emotion drew me in I loved Belle so much she is strong and vulnerable and the most caring of people, this is a must read story, a page turner and one that I highly recommend, I loved it so much more the second time round and can’t wait for book two to arrive. Michelle your stories get better and better thank you for hours of reading pleasure.
My thanks to the author for my copy to read and review
Belle had been waiting for twenty years for the love of her life to propose, but Ben decided that it was not going to happen, Belle is beyond devastated, and she has given up so much for Ben, her dreams of becoming a chef and a mother. When her best friend Riley decides to take off to London, Belle makes a snap decision to go with her.
From London they make their way to Rome to meet up with Avery who they met on their flight, this short trip will change Belle’s life when she finds work in a Trattoria doing what she loves. Belle also finds herself in a relationship with Andre the bartender and soon her heart is locked with Andre’s but different cultures and their pasts could very well be a problem and then a problem at the trattoria see Belle and Riley having to flee Rome and quickly.
Arriving in Paris Belle and Riley do some sightseeing, Andre and Avery arrive to visit but things don’t go as planned as Belle’s world is rocked, what will come with the future for these two wonderful people will Belle and Andre find love and happiness?
This story is so gorgeously written, firstly the food oh my god I wanted to be there with them eating, but the heartfelt emotion drew me in I loved Belle so much she is strong and vulnerable and the most caring of people, this is a must read story, a page turner and one that I highly recommend, I loved it so much more the second time round and can’t wait for book two to arrive. Michelle your stories get better and better thank you for hours of reading pleasure.
My thanks to the author for my copy to read and review
August 14, 2023
Belle Hamilton had been with her partner, Ben for twenty years and she’d been waiting for him to propose. But the day Ben announces that they are over because he is seeing someone else, Belle is shocked and lost for words.
When Belle’s best friend Riley tells her she is going to London and Rome, Belle decides to go with her. Belle was about to set out on an amazing adventure and along the way she would explore beautiful places and meet wonderful people. As weeks turn into months Belle is finding it harder and harder to return home especially when she gets a job doing something she had always wanted to do.
The Summer of Everything by Aussie author Michelle Montebello is the first book in the Seasons of Belle series. A beautifully written story that I highly recommend.
When Belle’s best friend Riley tells her she is going to London and Rome, Belle decides to go with her. Belle was about to set out on an amazing adventure and along the way she would explore beautiful places and meet wonderful people. As weeks turn into months Belle is finding it harder and harder to return home especially when she gets a job doing something she had always wanted to do.
The Summer of Everything by Aussie author Michelle Montebello is the first book in the Seasons of Belle series. A beautifully written story that I highly recommend.
May 17, 2022
When Belle Hamilton’s relationship of twenty years suddenly, and without warning, comes to an earth shattering end, she is devastated.
Never in her wildest imaginings would she have envisaged such a thing happening to their solid relationship. They have known and loved each other since they were sixteen, and although they have never married, they were totally committed to their relationship and a future where marriage and children were definitely on the cards.
Now in her thirties Belle is forced to face the fact that those things she had so lovingly put on hold until “later” might never happen now.
Belle is passionate about cooking and all things food, she wanted to become a chef, or at least do something in the field of cooking, but her father (a high court judge) wanted her to study law like him and his family. This put a strain on their relationship also as each one stubbornly resisted the other.
Belle put her career and ambitions on hold so Ben could go to university.
Now, all these years on, she finds herself at this unthinkable crossroads.
Ben is now a lawyer, content in his position and making a good living, Belle, on the other hand still works at a small Café earning minimal wages, never having had the opportunity to fulfil her dreams of marriage with children, and a career in cooking…
…So when Ben drops his bombshell, Belle is left broke, broken and bereft.
After a hasty and inadequate settlement, Belle flees to London with her best friend Riley, to try clear her head and move on, perhaps get some work there for awhile.
They make friends with another girl on their flight who invites them to stay with her in Italy where she lives and works at her Uncle’s Trattoria.
They have a brief stay in busy London but make the decision to try Italy.
After almost a year, life finally starts to look and feel good for Belle and Riley as they settle into the groove of their Italian lifestyle.
Then something happens which compels Belle and her friend to quickly flee Italy and catch a train to Paris where their lives take on yet another life altering turn…
What now?
This turned out to be a very compelling read where it was ticking along at a very good pace, and then suddenly…just as in real life…events take a dramatic twist and now you’re quickly turning pages to find out what’s around the corner.
This was a surprisingly nice departure from my usual choice of genre, and I chose it because I had recently read this author’s previous book,The Quarantine Station, which I enjoyed immensely…and highly recommend.
This is a well constructed and gripping story! I have already committed to book #2 in this series and look forward to more from this talented author.
5⭐️s
Never in her wildest imaginings would she have envisaged such a thing happening to their solid relationship. They have known and loved each other since they were sixteen, and although they have never married, they were totally committed to their relationship and a future where marriage and children were definitely on the cards.
Now in her thirties Belle is forced to face the fact that those things she had so lovingly put on hold until “later” might never happen now.
Belle is passionate about cooking and all things food, she wanted to become a chef, or at least do something in the field of cooking, but her father (a high court judge) wanted her to study law like him and his family. This put a strain on their relationship also as each one stubbornly resisted the other.
Belle put her career and ambitions on hold so Ben could go to university.
Now, all these years on, she finds herself at this unthinkable crossroads.
Ben is now a lawyer, content in his position and making a good living, Belle, on the other hand still works at a small Café earning minimal wages, never having had the opportunity to fulfil her dreams of marriage with children, and a career in cooking…
…So when Ben drops his bombshell, Belle is left broke, broken and bereft.
After a hasty and inadequate settlement, Belle flees to London with her best friend Riley, to try clear her head and move on, perhaps get some work there for awhile.
They make friends with another girl on their flight who invites them to stay with her in Italy where she lives and works at her Uncle’s Trattoria.
They have a brief stay in busy London but make the decision to try Italy.
After almost a year, life finally starts to look and feel good for Belle and Riley as they settle into the groove of their Italian lifestyle.
Then something happens which compels Belle and her friend to quickly flee Italy and catch a train to Paris where their lives take on yet another life altering turn…
What now?
This turned out to be a very compelling read where it was ticking along at a very good pace, and then suddenly…just as in real life…events take a dramatic twist and now you’re quickly turning pages to find out what’s around the corner.
This was a surprisingly nice departure from my usual choice of genre, and I chose it because I had recently read this author’s previous book,The Quarantine Station, which I enjoyed immensely…and highly recommend.
This is a well constructed and gripping story! I have already committed to book #2 in this series and look forward to more from this talented author.
5⭐️s
May 17, 2022
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Australian author Michelle Montebello welcomes back the first book in her Seasons of Belle series. After a refresh and a rebrand, The Summer of Everything dazzles readers with a tale of friendship, heartache, travel, opportunity and love. It was such a delight to be in the company of the characters of The Summer of Everything.
Meet Belle Hamilton, for two decades Belle has been in a loving relationship with her partner Ben. After patiently waiting for Ben to pop the question, Belle is understandably shocked when he suddenly ends their relationship. Belle’s life is thrown into disarray and her plans for the future are quashed. But Belle’s life takes a turn for the better when she makes the decision to finally fulfil a personal dream to travel to Rome. When Belle sets foot on Italy’s shores she knows she has found her happy place. While tending to her broken heart Belle finds love in an unexpected place. But as soon as this relationship begins to flourish there are challenges to overcome. From the past, to work and travel rules, Belle’s time in Italy is threatened. Will Belle find happiness again?
It was lovely to return to the easy-going and welcoming style of Michelle Montebello’s writing. The Summer of Everything is a prime example of this giving storyteller’s ability to spin a wonderful and highly engaging yarn. Full of emotion, drama, decisions and matters of the heart, The Summer of Everything is an embracing read.
With travel only just starting to resume, we are lucky to have books that allow us to partake in a spot of paperback travel. I know I was extremely thankful to Michelle Montebello for allowing me to come with her on a journey to Rome with her lead character Belle. Although the circumstances of Belle’s sojourn in Italy is quite sad, I could also see the flipside. Belle’s move to Italy was a good opportunity for her to spread her wings. Thanks to Montebello’s situational prose we are thoroughly immersed in life in Italy’s capital. I enjoyed strolling through Rome’s quaint streets and I absolutely inhaled the food descriptions. This is a book that provides a generous serving of culinary delights, so be prepared to cook up an Italian feast afterwards – or even during your reading journey.
There is a fair amount of heartache, personal pain, missed opportunities, disappointment and general problems to overcome in The Summer of Everything. Introducing more than one love complication to the overall story arc was great and I liked how Montebello teased this out. I really liked and admired Belle, the lead of this tale. I also connected with Belle’s personal issues. I think this is the area that Montebello excels at as her writing soars. I enjoyed this one so much that I raced through it during a heavy working week just to get to the satisfying end of this lovely tale.
A heart quencher, The Summer of Everything is a book that I highly recommend to contemporary fiction readers.
* I wish to thank the author for a copy of this book for review.
Australian author Michelle Montebello welcomes back the first book in her Seasons of Belle series. After a refresh and a rebrand, The Summer of Everything dazzles readers with a tale of friendship, heartache, travel, opportunity and love. It was such a delight to be in the company of the characters of The Summer of Everything.
Meet Belle Hamilton, for two decades Belle has been in a loving relationship with her partner Ben. After patiently waiting for Ben to pop the question, Belle is understandably shocked when he suddenly ends their relationship. Belle’s life is thrown into disarray and her plans for the future are quashed. But Belle’s life takes a turn for the better when she makes the decision to finally fulfil a personal dream to travel to Rome. When Belle sets foot on Italy’s shores she knows she has found her happy place. While tending to her broken heart Belle finds love in an unexpected place. But as soon as this relationship begins to flourish there are challenges to overcome. From the past, to work and travel rules, Belle’s time in Italy is threatened. Will Belle find happiness again?
It was lovely to return to the easy-going and welcoming style of Michelle Montebello’s writing. The Summer of Everything is a prime example of this giving storyteller’s ability to spin a wonderful and highly engaging yarn. Full of emotion, drama, decisions and matters of the heart, The Summer of Everything is an embracing read.
With travel only just starting to resume, we are lucky to have books that allow us to partake in a spot of paperback travel. I know I was extremely thankful to Michelle Montebello for allowing me to come with her on a journey to Rome with her lead character Belle. Although the circumstances of Belle’s sojourn in Italy is quite sad, I could also see the flipside. Belle’s move to Italy was a good opportunity for her to spread her wings. Thanks to Montebello’s situational prose we are thoroughly immersed in life in Italy’s capital. I enjoyed strolling through Rome’s quaint streets and I absolutely inhaled the food descriptions. This is a book that provides a generous serving of culinary delights, so be prepared to cook up an Italian feast afterwards – or even during your reading journey.
There is a fair amount of heartache, personal pain, missed opportunities, disappointment and general problems to overcome in The Summer of Everything. Introducing more than one love complication to the overall story arc was great and I liked how Montebello teased this out. I really liked and admired Belle, the lead of this tale. I also connected with Belle’s personal issues. I think this is the area that Montebello excels at as her writing soars. I enjoyed this one so much that I raced through it during a heavy working week just to get to the satisfying end of this lovely tale.
A heart quencher, The Summer of Everything is a book that I highly recommend to contemporary fiction readers.
* I wish to thank the author for a copy of this book for review.
July 4, 2025
I really enjoyed the rollar coaster of Belle's life from being in a relationship for 20 years, since the age of 16 to her childhood sweetheart, to have her world crumble with the words "I'm not in love with you anymore".
Belle takes off overseas with her best friend Riley on an adventure to follow her passion for being a chef. Both are working illegally, falling for the wrong guys, and escaping to Paris when tragedy strikes.
It's a really good novel bringing out all the emotions.
Belle takes off overseas with her best friend Riley on an adventure to follow her passion for being a chef. Both are working illegally, falling for the wrong guys, and escaping to Paris when tragedy strikes.
It's a really good novel bringing out all the emotions.
April 14, 2022
Thank you Michelle for sending us a copy to read and review.
Michelle’s books have a special place in my heart.
They are emotional, entertaining, vulnerable, beautiful and so damn good.
The Summer Of Everything is no exception, it’s book one in the Seasons of Belle series and while I was sad to close the book, I’m very happy knowing there more to come.
Belle Hamilton has been waiting for boyfriend Ben to propose for far too long.
When a special night is planned, Belle’s hopes of that one special question is shattered when it’s not the question she wants to hear.
As her life is left in tatters she makes a split second decision to go to Rome with her best friend, Riley.
There she experiences new beginnings, adventure, friendship, loves and the essences of affairs of the heart.
Soon her new found happiness turns to chaos, danger, unlucky and heartbreak.
New decisions need to be made and what seemed perfect is not so perfect after all.
A reworking of Interwoven, this story has been given a facelift with fresh eyes and while I haven’t read the original, this book is full of wonder, uniqueness and magic.
Michelle has this wonderful flair for enticing you into the story and continuing to do so again and again, investing in her characters and not wanting the plot to finish.
The writing is vivid, clear and the location is striking, inviting making you feel like your among the drama.
An exquisitely told narrative that will leave you breathless.
Michelle’s books have a special place in my heart.
They are emotional, entertaining, vulnerable, beautiful and so damn good.
The Summer Of Everything is no exception, it’s book one in the Seasons of Belle series and while I was sad to close the book, I’m very happy knowing there more to come.
Belle Hamilton has been waiting for boyfriend Ben to propose for far too long.
When a special night is planned, Belle’s hopes of that one special question is shattered when it’s not the question she wants to hear.
As her life is left in tatters she makes a split second decision to go to Rome with her best friend, Riley.
There she experiences new beginnings, adventure, friendship, loves and the essences of affairs of the heart.
Soon her new found happiness turns to chaos, danger, unlucky and heartbreak.
New decisions need to be made and what seemed perfect is not so perfect after all.
A reworking of Interwoven, this story has been given a facelift with fresh eyes and while I haven’t read the original, this book is full of wonder, uniqueness and magic.
Michelle has this wonderful flair for enticing you into the story and continuing to do so again and again, investing in her characters and not wanting the plot to finish.
The writing is vivid, clear and the location is striking, inviting making you feel like your among the drama.
An exquisitely told narrative that will leave you breathless.
March 30, 2023
So much more than expected. A story crossing continents, descriptions that took me there and characters with depth, created a beautifully layered story that had me buying the next in series as I finished the first. I'm a fan. Five Stars.
April 4, 2022
The Summer of Everything is an Interwoven rewrite (the first book in the Belle series). But if you’ve already read Interwoven, don’t let that put you off.
This rewritten, rebranded version of a much-loved story is even better than the original. Beautifully written in the author’s signature prose, it will draw you in immediately. And while this version follows a similar premise to the original, there are enough plot changes to make you think you are reading a new story.
Follow Belle once more on a journey to Rome, eat Italian food, drink wine and espresso until the sun rises, and fall in love! Enjoy the scenery which is so detailed and vivid that it comes to life on the pages… And love the characters all over again. This book will not let you down!
A brilliant read and one that I highly recommend!
This rewritten, rebranded version of a much-loved story is even better than the original. Beautifully written in the author’s signature prose, it will draw you in immediately. And while this version follows a similar premise to the original, there are enough plot changes to make you think you are reading a new story.
Follow Belle once more on a journey to Rome, eat Italian food, drink wine and espresso until the sun rises, and fall in love! Enjoy the scenery which is so detailed and vivid that it comes to life on the pages… And love the characters all over again. This book will not let you down!
A brilliant read and one that I highly recommend!
January 5, 2024
Gorgeous and heartwarming, loved it
April 2, 2022
Wow! So beautiful. I was blown away by this book and how it transported me to colourful Rome. I was eating the food and walking the cobbled lanes with Belle and Andre. This book kept me awake most nights as I couldn't put it down. It's the quickest I've ever read a book. Now I need sleep!
I can't wait for book 2. I've already pre-ordered it. And really looking forward to the rest of the series too.
Michelle Montebello has such a knack for writing entertaining stories. She's one of my favourite authors. I've loved everything she's written. She never lets you down.
I can't wait for book 2. I've already pre-ordered it. And really looking forward to the rest of the series too.
Michelle Montebello has such a knack for writing entertaining stories. She's one of my favourite authors. I've loved everything she's written. She never lets you down.
May 16, 2022
A wonderful story that tugs the emotions and offers hope after the worst things life can throw at a person.
Belle loses her love of twenty years when he tells her he's found someone else. Careful, cautious Belle retreats into herself until events conspire to pull the rug out from under her feet even more. With her life in freefall, Belle heads off to London and Rome where she rediscovers her dreams, and finds a new path to happiness.
Don't read when hungry - the descriptions of Belle's culinary creations are so good!
Highly recommended.
Belle loses her love of twenty years when he tells her he's found someone else. Careful, cautious Belle retreats into herself until events conspire to pull the rug out from under her feet even more. With her life in freefall, Belle heads off to London and Rome where she rediscovers her dreams, and finds a new path to happiness.
Don't read when hungry - the descriptions of Belle's culinary creations are so good!
Highly recommended.
April 2, 2022
When I’d heard the author was rewriting and rebranding the Belle series, I jumped at the chance to read an advanced copy of The Summer of Everything (the rewrite of book 1: Interwoven).
I loved the original Belle books, so I was curious, if not a little apprehensive, to see what had changed, if anything. Happy to say, I am so ecstatic with the new version! The author approached this rewrite brilliantly and in a very clever way. While the premise is the same, there are some significant plot changes, enough to feel like you’re visiting old friends with new stories to tell. I loved it!
It was polished, precise, and perfect. And Belle and Andre will still warm your heart the way they did in the original story. I can’t wait for the rest of the series as I’m keen to see how those stories unfold, as I’m told they’re quite different to the originals.
5 stars from me!
I loved the original Belle books, so I was curious, if not a little apprehensive, to see what had changed, if anything. Happy to say, I am so ecstatic with the new version! The author approached this rewrite brilliantly and in a very clever way. While the premise is the same, there are some significant plot changes, enough to feel like you’re visiting old friends with new stories to tell. I loved it!
It was polished, precise, and perfect. And Belle and Andre will still warm your heart the way they did in the original story. I can’t wait for the rest of the series as I’m keen to see how those stories unfold, as I’m told they’re quite different to the originals.
5 stars from me!
June 6, 2025
For twenty years, Belle Hamilton has waited patiently for her partner Ben to propose. But when he drops a devastating bombshell, her world is turned upside down. With everything she thought she knew falling apart, Belle packs her bags and escapes to Europe, eventually landing in the heart of Rome.
There, among the city’s cobblestone streets and golden light, she meets Andre—a charming Italian bartender—and begins to rediscover herself. As an unexpected connection grows between them, Belle starts to realise that happiness might lie in the unlikeliest of places. But love, especially one shaped by different cultures and painful pasts, is never simple.
From the familiar suburbs of Sydney to the atmospheric laneways of Rome, the settings are brought to life with such authenticity that you feel completely immersed in Belle’s journey. The depth of research and attention to detail shines through.
Belle is a beautifully relatable character, and I found myself feeling every one of her highs and lows. Her story is one of heartbreak and rediscovery, and it’s told with warmth, honesty, and heart.
A heartfelt and compelling read—I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to continue the journey in the next books.
There, among the city’s cobblestone streets and golden light, she meets Andre—a charming Italian bartender—and begins to rediscover herself. As an unexpected connection grows between them, Belle starts to realise that happiness might lie in the unlikeliest of places. But love, especially one shaped by different cultures and painful pasts, is never simple.
From the familiar suburbs of Sydney to the atmospheric laneways of Rome, the settings are brought to life with such authenticity that you feel completely immersed in Belle’s journey. The depth of research and attention to detail shines through.
Belle is a beautifully relatable character, and I found myself feeling every one of her highs and lows. Her story is one of heartbreak and rediscovery, and it’s told with warmth, honesty, and heart.
A heartfelt and compelling read—I absolutely loved it and can’t wait to continue the journey in the next books.
April 1, 2022
When I received this book I couldn’t wait to start reading it. I hadn’t read the fine print from Michelle saying it was a rewrite of Interwoven. I started reading and thought I had read parts of it before. I then reread the email stating it was a rewrite. The plot had some changes and just like Interwoven I absolutely loved it. It is another book you just can’t put down. I loved reading about the forbidden love between Belle and Andre. And how two best friends Riley and Belle were there for each other in times of need. As with all Michelle Montebello books when you finish reading them you are eagerly waiting for the next one to come out. Well done Michelle on the rewrite and rebrand of Interwoven. ❤️❤️❤️
April 25, 2022
Yet another wonderful book by Michelle Montebello. I always feel like I'm wherever her books are - this one is primarily is set is Rome. I've never been to Rome but now really want to stand up on the street with a strong coffee!
Belle Hamilton has been waiting 20 years, for her partner Ben to propose - when he drops a bombshell over dinner Belle thinks her life breaking down around her.
Belle makes a bold decision to pack her bags and head to Europe where she finds herself on the cobbled streets of Rome. From here you follow Belle's adventures, romance, sorrow and friendship. I now can't wait to read the next instalment of Belle's life!
Belle Hamilton has been waiting 20 years, for her partner Ben to propose - when he drops a bombshell over dinner Belle thinks her life breaking down around her.
Belle makes a bold decision to pack her bags and head to Europe where she finds herself on the cobbled streets of Rome. From here you follow Belle's adventures, romance, sorrow and friendship. I now can't wait to read the next instalment of Belle's life!
April 20, 2022
“The Summer of Everything” was everything you could possibly want in a book. I instantly related to Belle because she ended up travelling and working in Rome - something I always wanted to do but never had the courage to do. I lived vicariously through Belle, her friendship with Avery and love with Andre. The writing was so vivid and vibrant. I could imagine the smell and activity in the restaurant - I could almost taste the prawns and pasta. I was heartbroken when Belle had to leave Rome but thrilled when Andre followed. I cried buckets over the attacks in Paris and could feel everyone’s pain following.
I have never read a book that covered every one of my emotions so vividly. Michelle - you are an incredible author. A true talent amongst your peers.
I have never read a book that covered every one of my emotions so vividly. Michelle - you are an incredible author. A true talent amongst your peers.
April 14, 2022
WOW A beautifully written emotional captivating book. I was in tears for most of the first five chapters then I followed Belle's story laughing and smiling and a few more tears as she went throught the steps to find herself, friendships and following her heart with food and love. I cant wait to read and follow Belle through the next chapter of her story. (The release seems so far away) You won't be able to put this book down and don't forget the box of tissues. Highly recommended.
March 19, 2022
I adored the original Belle Hamilton series so was completely blown away by this revamped edition! While my favourites are all there, the story is largely completely new and fresh. And dare I say, even better than the first edition. How do I give this book 10 stars?! Absolutely fantastic. A must read for existing and new fans of the brilliant Michelle Montebello.
July 11, 2022
Belle believed she had everything. A wonderful life she had created with her boyfriend Ben, who has been her rock throughout her life. What will Belle do when Ben drops a massive bombshell, destroying the world she lives comfortably in?
Belle is depleted and lost. When will she be able to pursue her own dreams after she puts her own hopes and dreams on hold? Will an extended holiday to Italy and a chance encounter help her realise all of her goals and future hopes can come true?
I have a lot of faith in Michelle Montebello as an author. She has a way of making you want to live, taste, and breathe the narrative instead of just telling it.
I can relate to Belle's friendship with Riley, who is her best friend. To have a strong best friend who will tell you the truth, not just what you want to hear, about everything. I can tell that the two best friends have a close, encouraging relationship simply by listening to their conversations.
In addition to strengthening her relationship with fellow traveller Avery, Belle also met Andre, who comes to be her confidant and close friend.
Their chances of finding happiness are dubious because their world as they know it has been split in two. The book discusses tragic incidents that actually unfortunately in life happen. The realism of the situation stuck something unexplainable in me.
I had a strong emotional connection to the plot, the people in it, and the vivid descriptions. It was as if I could smell the pizza, taste the bread and chilled wine, hear the accents of the characters, and sense the strong bonds that were forged.
I won't forget this story. It was enjoyable, authentic, and credible. I wholeheartedly recommend this beautiful story because the author, Michelle Montebello, is very skilled in her craft. Incredible start to the series. I cannot wait to read more.
Belle is depleted and lost. When will she be able to pursue her own dreams after she puts her own hopes and dreams on hold? Will an extended holiday to Italy and a chance encounter help her realise all of her goals and future hopes can come true?
I have a lot of faith in Michelle Montebello as an author. She has a way of making you want to live, taste, and breathe the narrative instead of just telling it.
I can relate to Belle's friendship with Riley, who is her best friend. To have a strong best friend who will tell you the truth, not just what you want to hear, about everything. I can tell that the two best friends have a close, encouraging relationship simply by listening to their conversations.
In addition to strengthening her relationship with fellow traveller Avery, Belle also met Andre, who comes to be her confidant and close friend.
Their chances of finding happiness are dubious because their world as they know it has been split in two. The book discusses tragic incidents that actually unfortunately in life happen. The realism of the situation stuck something unexplainable in me.
I had a strong emotional connection to the plot, the people in it, and the vivid descriptions. It was as if I could smell the pizza, taste the bread and chilled wine, hear the accents of the characters, and sense the strong bonds that were forged.
I won't forget this story. It was enjoyable, authentic, and credible. I wholeheartedly recommend this beautiful story because the author, Michelle Montebello, is very skilled in her craft. Incredible start to the series. I cannot wait to read more.
May 8, 2023
The romance starts with regular familiarity - girl sacrifices her dream for man of her dreams only to find he's gotten bored with her slavish attention and has moved on, with the usual callousness of these self-entitled types. Except, Montebello writes both characters with very clear insight into their motivations and with such great sympathy, that the reader is compelled to keep reading and follow the cracking pace of the story as our heroine finds her known world collapsing and must learn to start again. Montebello takes her heroine on a joyous ride of the senses where she can discard her past and re-invent herself.
When the second bombshell hits her, her transformation sees her able to quickly adapt to circumstances, but the third bombshell soon after, had me gripping my book, so unexpected and ingenius a plot twist. The only negative is that the story is very short - but I guess that's what sequels 2, 3 and 4 are designed for - can't wait to get stuck in.
A lighthearted, easy read with a great plot twist. Highly recommended.
When the second bombshell hits her, her transformation sees her able to quickly adapt to circumstances, but the third bombshell soon after, had me gripping my book, so unexpected and ingenius a plot twist. The only negative is that the story is very short - but I guess that's what sequels 2, 3 and 4 are designed for - can't wait to get stuck in.
A lighthearted, easy read with a great plot twist. Highly recommended.
September 2, 2025
I confess. I was yelling at Belle and Ben in the beginning. I mean. Twenty years of waiting for him to propose and then zip? I am glad Belle has her best friend, Riley to help her pick up the pieces and move on! Riley is heading to London and tugs Belle along with her.
So we follow Belle on her journey into finding herself and, maybe, love after her jerk boyfriend breaks her heart. This is part of a four part series so we get to go along as she grows as she travels the world.
The book is a fast read, perfect for an afternoon out by the pool/ocean/lake or in the front porch swing. Don't read this if you are hungry, though. The food in this book!
Ms. Montebello writes her characters so that they step out of the pages into your life. And I am looking forward to reading the next books in this series!
So we follow Belle on her journey into finding herself and, maybe, love after her jerk boyfriend breaks her heart. This is part of a four part series so we get to go along as she grows as she travels the world.
The book is a fast read, perfect for an afternoon out by the pool/ocean/lake or in the front porch swing. Don't read this if you are hungry, though. The food in this book!
Ms. Montebello writes her characters so that they step out of the pages into your life. And I am looking forward to reading the next books in this series!
March 6, 2023
i think the real problem with this book was that it jsut wasnt for me. i really, really tried to like it, tried to get through it but clearly, it just aint happening. i dont think there was actually anything wrong with it, but i really struggled to connect to not only the chracters, mbtu also the story. i actaully think there would defintly be a really big fan base for a book liek this, but it turns out i will just not be in that fan base. please, please dont hate me because i didnt like this again, because, at risk of sounding like a broken record, it was really a me problem. this happens sometimes. check this book out if you feel like it, give it a go, my reviews arent always super acurate. love you all!
February 27, 2023
Definitely my kind of book, sweet and romantic with a shocking and unexpected ending. Loved it!
Belle has her comfortable world swept away from her when her man of twenty years ends their relationship. Lost, Belle follows her friend overseas on an adventure that leads her to her dreams of cooking with new friendships and a second chance at love. But just when everything seems to be going right, the world turns upside down again over and over.
Read this book, and you'll be straight into the second.
Belle has her comfortable world swept away from her when her man of twenty years ends their relationship. Lost, Belle follows her friend overseas on an adventure that leads her to her dreams of cooking with new friendships and a second chance at love. But just when everything seems to be going right, the world turns upside down again over and over.
Read this book, and you'll be straight into the second.
April 6, 2023
Sweet, loving, heartbreaking 💔
Wow gorgeous sweet contemporary romance read.
After 20 years Ben drops a bombshell on Belle.
She leaves with her best friend Riley to Rome where they get work and she meets Andre they start something quietly.
Then her a Riley leave for Paris due to a raid..
But there's heartache for them in Paris will they all be ok?
Sweet, loving, heartbreaking 💔 read can't wait to read more.
Wow gorgeous sweet contemporary romance read.
After 20 years Ben drops a bombshell on Belle.
She leaves with her best friend Riley to Rome where they get work and she meets Andre they start something quietly.
Then her a Riley leave for Paris due to a raid..
But there's heartache for them in Paris will they all be ok?
Sweet, loving, heartbreaking 💔 read can't wait to read more.
January 8, 2024
I'm more than a little conflicted by this book, but I still think it deserves four stars. The story picked up slowly, letting me wallow just as much as the main character was. The plot twists weren't very twisty, it felt more like paint by numbers, but then things took a drastic turn in the climax and I'm still not sure how I feel about it. The resolution was incredibly short, but also setting up for the next book in the series.
December 24, 2024
A good read
This was a good read though I did find the main character lack lustre but she grew on you as the book progressed. Though I enjoyed it I did not realise it was a continuing series and was disappointed. As one book I enjoyed it but knowing it continues took the shine off as the the lead wasn’t strong enough to keep me interested.
One the whole still a good read.
This was a good read though I did find the main character lack lustre but she grew on you as the book progressed. Though I enjoyed it I did not realise it was a continuing series and was disappointed. As one book I enjoyed it but knowing it continues took the shine off as the the lead wasn’t strong enough to keep me interested.
One the whole still a good read.
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November 3, 2022Ooh, love a Michelle Montebello story. Her characters are wonderful, and this story took me to Sydney and Rome and Paris, all favourites of mine. I enjoyed this story immensely, and then proceeded straight onto the second book in the series. But now have to wait until the third and fourth…
January 17, 2024
This emotionally filled story is utterly captivating. The characters, descriptions of Rome, Paris and life as an illegal employee are vivid and gripping. A fabulous story from this super talented author. I can't wait to read the next in this series.
May 7, 2023
Had me from the first page. Just love how Michelle Montebello writes. Starting book two in this series To Autumn with Love today
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