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Three Nights in Italy
FOUR WOMEN. ONE WEEKEND. A JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME.
Zoe has always known that her grandmother's wedding ring would be hers one day. She just never expected that day would come so soon. She may not be ready, but Zoe knows the importance of goodbye - and how much it hurts when left unsaid.
With her grandmother's belongings up for auction in just a few days, and her shifty uncle insisting on taking charge, she knows she has to return to Italy herself. Even if that means deceiving her mum, Ange, who will do anything to avoid conflict.
But when a face from the past reappears unexpectedly, Ange and Zoe - along with Harriet, Zoe's best friend who simply won't be left behind - find themselves on a trip journeying through the rolling Italian hills where they will discover more about each other (and themselves) than they could ever have imagined . . .
Explore the sun-drenched Italian countryside in this hilarious and heart-warming novel about unconditional love, second chances and the importance of not taking life for granted.
Zoe has always known that her grandmother's wedding ring would be hers one day. She just never expected that day would come so soon. She may not be ready, but Zoe knows the importance of goodbye - and how much it hurts when left unsaid.
With her grandmother's belongings up for auction in just a few days, and her shifty uncle insisting on taking charge, she knows she has to return to Italy herself. Even if that means deceiving her mum, Ange, who will do anything to avoid conflict.
But when a face from the past reappears unexpectedly, Ange and Zoe - along with Harriet, Zoe's best friend who simply won't be left behind - find themselves on a trip journeying through the rolling Italian hills where they will discover more about each other (and themselves) than they could ever have imagined . . .
Explore the sun-drenched Italian countryside in this hilarious and heart-warming novel about unconditional love, second chances and the importance of not taking life for granted.
352 pages, Paperback
First published April 13, 2023
1028 people are currently reading
834 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 141 reviews
February 18, 2023
3.5 ⭐
After bingeing historical fiction all week, I was looking forward to a change of pace with a rom-com. I think my funny bone must have been dislocated because I didn’t find this “hilarious” as promised. I will agree, it was heartwarming and I enjoyed the setting. Maybe I just don’t appreciate a good romcom…
The most compelling part for me was the intergenerational story involving 4 women who travel to Italy to reclaim a valuable item. Along the way, Zoe, Aunt Fanny, Angie and Harriet show us that it’s ok to muddle through life as we try to find our place and role and that we don’t all have it figured out, despite what we show others. I loved the highlight that with great friends and support, we can do the impossible….and we don’t need the help of a powerful heirloom.
Not all of us will experience a second chance at something, but when it comes along, it would be great to recognize the gift for what it is and understand the importance of not taking it for granted or appearing entitled. These ladies give us lots to think about.
I finished this one with a commitment to enjoying each day as it comes and being open to what life has to teach me. With that in mind, I think the author achieved what she set out to do…despite my lack of laughter!
I was gifted this copy by Headline and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
After bingeing historical fiction all week, I was looking forward to a change of pace with a rom-com. I think my funny bone must have been dislocated because I didn’t find this “hilarious” as promised. I will agree, it was heartwarming and I enjoyed the setting. Maybe I just don’t appreciate a good romcom…
The most compelling part for me was the intergenerational story involving 4 women who travel to Italy to reclaim a valuable item. Along the way, Zoe, Aunt Fanny, Angie and Harriet show us that it’s ok to muddle through life as we try to find our place and role and that we don’t all have it figured out, despite what we show others. I loved the highlight that with great friends and support, we can do the impossible….and we don’t need the help of a powerful heirloom.
Not all of us will experience a second chance at something, but when it comes along, it would be great to recognize the gift for what it is and understand the importance of not taking it for granted or appearing entitled. These ladies give us lots to think about.
I finished this one with a commitment to enjoying each day as it comes and being open to what life has to teach me. With that in mind, I think the author achieved what she set out to do…despite my lack of laughter!
I was gifted this copy by Headline and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
April 12, 2023
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read in exchange for an honest review as part of the book tour hosted by Headline Books.
Three Nights in Italy is a beautiful, funny, inspiring heart-warming read, and I just couldn't pull away from it. I devoured this book within a day and stayed up all night reading it. We follow four women, all at different ages and stages in their life. When Angies mother (Zoes grandmother) passes away, Angies brother Reggie takes things in hand to get her house and possessions sold at auction. Zoe was promised her grandmother's ring and is desperate to get this one item to remember her beloved grandmother by, but Reggie acts shifty whenever the ring is mentioned and so Zoe (along with her best friend, mother and long lost aunt) travel to Italy to retrieve it before it is lost forever. The trip to Italy is quite the disaster with spanners being thrown in proceedings left right and centre, and the women have much to discuss and learn from each other along the way. Honestly, this book was amazing. It was so funny and heartfelt, and I laughed and cried along the way with these amazing women! Definitely a must read book for summer!
Three Nights in Italy is a beautiful, funny, inspiring heart-warming read, and I just couldn't pull away from it. I devoured this book within a day and stayed up all night reading it. We follow four women, all at different ages and stages in their life. When Angies mother (Zoes grandmother) passes away, Angies brother Reggie takes things in hand to get her house and possessions sold at auction. Zoe was promised her grandmother's ring and is desperate to get this one item to remember her beloved grandmother by, but Reggie acts shifty whenever the ring is mentioned and so Zoe (along with her best friend, mother and long lost aunt) travel to Italy to retrieve it before it is lost forever. The trip to Italy is quite the disaster with spanners being thrown in proceedings left right and centre, and the women have much to discuss and learn from each other along the way. Honestly, this book was amazing. It was so funny and heartfelt, and I laughed and cried along the way with these amazing women! Definitely a must read book for summer!
April 13, 2023
3.5 ⭐
After bingeing historical fiction all week, I was looking forward to a change of pace with a romcom. I think my funny bone must have been dislocated, because I didn’t find this “hilarious” as promised. I will agree, it was heartwarming and I enjoyed the setting. Maybe I just don’t appreciate a good romcom…
The most compelling part for me was the intergenerational story involving 4 women who travel to Italy to reclaim a valuable item. Along the way, Zoe, Aunt Fanny, Angie and Harriet show us that it’s ok to muddle through life as we try to find our place and role and that we don’t all have it figured out, despite what we show others. I loved the highlight that with great friends and support, we can do the impossible….and we don’t need the help of a powerful heirloom.
Not all of us will experience a second chance at something, but when it comes along, it would be great to recognize the gift for what it is and understand the importance of not taking it for granted or appearing entitled. These ladies give us lots to think about.
I finished this one with a commitment to enjoying each day as it comes and being open to what life has to teach me. With that in mind, I think the author achieved what she set out to do…despite my lack of laughter!
I was gifted this copy by Headline and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
After bingeing historical fiction all week, I was looking forward to a change of pace with a romcom. I think my funny bone must have been dislocated, because I didn’t find this “hilarious” as promised. I will agree, it was heartwarming and I enjoyed the setting. Maybe I just don’t appreciate a good romcom…
The most compelling part for me was the intergenerational story involving 4 women who travel to Italy to reclaim a valuable item. Along the way, Zoe, Aunt Fanny, Angie and Harriet show us that it’s ok to muddle through life as we try to find our place and role and that we don’t all have it figured out, despite what we show others. I loved the highlight that with great friends and support, we can do the impossible….and we don’t need the help of a powerful heirloom.
Not all of us will experience a second chance at something, but when it comes along, it would be great to recognize the gift for what it is and understand the importance of not taking it for granted or appearing entitled. These ladies give us lots to think about.
I finished this one with a commitment to enjoying each day as it comes and being open to what life has to teach me. With that in mind, I think the author achieved what she set out to do…despite my lack of laughter!
I was gifted this copy by Headline and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
March 27, 2023
Three Nights in Italy is a wonderful, humorously, comical, uplifting story about a group of women, different ages and at very different stages in their lives. When the matriarch of the family dies, mother and daughter deal with the death in very different ways. But, with the help of old and new friends, they begin the healing process, and each begin a new chapter.
When Angie’s mother, Zoe’s grandmother, an artist who lived in Italy passes away, the two women are devastated. Although she was in her 90’s the thought of her not being in their lives never seemed possible. But both are devastated.
Angie’s solution is to continue on as if nothing has happened. She continues to run her life as always, doing errands, baking and cooking. Zoe’s solution is to mourn the loss. A wedding planner, she dives into work, but can’t help but feel she needs something from her grandmother to remember her by. She had always been promised her grandmother’s engagement ring which she never took off.
So, when Angie’s brother, Zoe’s uncle, Reggie makes the decision to go over to Italy to sell everything, Zoe doesn’t trust him to take the ring back with him. She decides she needs to go to her grandmother’s house in Italy and find the ring before Uncle Reggie sells it. But her mother refuses to go.
Enter Zoe’s best friend Harriet who is having her own life crisis. She hates her job. Her mother, an older woman remarried and has a new infant. She hardly pays any attention to Harriet anymore, barely remembering she even has an older daughter. Harriet feels as if her mother has a new family, and she is not included.
So, when Zoe asks Harriet to go to Italy with her, she knows she’s half-way there. And finally, they convince Angie to come, with the help of an old friend. Off they go! But nothing goes right to say the least! It’s a scene out of planes, trains and automobiles!
As their journey progresses, the women begin to learn quite a bit about themselves and each other and although they all can’t seem to get out of each other’s way, they become a united front in getting to the house and finding the ring for Zoe.
With so many hilarious plot twists, all you can do is root for these women as they begin to grow stronger with the help, it seems, from the strongest woman they all ever knew.
Three Nights in Italy is a romantic, funny, and empowering story with characters you will fall in love with and begin to miss even before the ending!
Thank you #NetGalley #Headline/HatchettPublishing #OliviaBeirne # ThreeNightsinItaly for the advanced copy. Please note that the Kindle version will be released on April 13 and the Paperback will be released on July 4.
When Angie’s mother, Zoe’s grandmother, an artist who lived in Italy passes away, the two women are devastated. Although she was in her 90’s the thought of her not being in their lives never seemed possible. But both are devastated.
Angie’s solution is to continue on as if nothing has happened. She continues to run her life as always, doing errands, baking and cooking. Zoe’s solution is to mourn the loss. A wedding planner, she dives into work, but can’t help but feel she needs something from her grandmother to remember her by. She had always been promised her grandmother’s engagement ring which she never took off.
So, when Angie’s brother, Zoe’s uncle, Reggie makes the decision to go over to Italy to sell everything, Zoe doesn’t trust him to take the ring back with him. She decides she needs to go to her grandmother’s house in Italy and find the ring before Uncle Reggie sells it. But her mother refuses to go.
Enter Zoe’s best friend Harriet who is having her own life crisis. She hates her job. Her mother, an older woman remarried and has a new infant. She hardly pays any attention to Harriet anymore, barely remembering she even has an older daughter. Harriet feels as if her mother has a new family, and she is not included.
So, when Zoe asks Harriet to go to Italy with her, she knows she’s half-way there. And finally, they convince Angie to come, with the help of an old friend. Off they go! But nothing goes right to say the least! It’s a scene out of planes, trains and automobiles!
As their journey progresses, the women begin to learn quite a bit about themselves and each other and although they all can’t seem to get out of each other’s way, they become a united front in getting to the house and finding the ring for Zoe.
With so many hilarious plot twists, all you can do is root for these women as they begin to grow stronger with the help, it seems, from the strongest woman they all ever knew.
Three Nights in Italy is a romantic, funny, and empowering story with characters you will fall in love with and begin to miss even before the ending!
Thank you #NetGalley #Headline/HatchettPublishing #OliviaBeirne # ThreeNightsinItaly for the advanced copy. Please note that the Kindle version will be released on April 13 and the Paperback will be released on July 4.
November 25, 2023
4.5 ⭐
A really enjoyable light hearted read set in Italy.
A funny, happy and at times sad story about 4 women and their 3 night stay in Italy.
Wasn't intending to read this in November, however I picked it up with the intention of just reading the blurb and honestly just found myself wanting to read it. I flew through it.
A new to me author but will definitely read her other books.
Would highly recommend 💕
A really enjoyable light hearted read set in Italy.
A funny, happy and at times sad story about 4 women and their 3 night stay in Italy.
Wasn't intending to read this in November, however I picked it up with the intention of just reading the blurb and honestly just found myself wanting to read it. I flew through it.
A new to me author but will definitely read her other books.
Would highly recommend 💕
April 10, 2023
Olivia Beirne writes books which are perfect for a cosy night and a glass of wine. I love a book about friendships and family, especially a mother/daughter relationship and this is perfect for that.
After Zoe's grandmother sadly dies Zoe and her mum Angie are riddled with grief and are in a state of limbo. Her aunt Fanny comes back into the picture after 14 years and whisks both of them plus Zoe's best friend Harriet away to Italy where her grandmother lived.
From the moment they step foot in Italy it's a nightmare. Everything is against them and there are so many ups and downs that I could feel the frustration of the characters. But it made for a better read and a stronger plot. There are parts during this book where I couldn't stop laughing. It's full of brilliant one liners (mostly from Aunt Fanny), that made it seem like a book full of sunshine.
Each of the four characters are going through personal problems, and during the few special days in Italy they band together and gain major character development by the end.
One of my favourite parts of this was the added element of Sam. I think he brought out something special in Zoe, and even though his role is small I really liked the surprise element of their relationship and the push he gives her to follow her dreams.
Three Nights In Italy is a heartfelt story about hope, grief and going for what you want. The whole thing felt like one big hug and there were tears in my eyes when they finally reached Zoe's grandma's house and were looking at all her paintings. It's one of those books which can make you laugh and cry, and I really enjoyed the journey they all made to self discovery.
After Zoe's grandmother sadly dies Zoe and her mum Angie are riddled with grief and are in a state of limbo. Her aunt Fanny comes back into the picture after 14 years and whisks both of them plus Zoe's best friend Harriet away to Italy where her grandmother lived.
From the moment they step foot in Italy it's a nightmare. Everything is against them and there are so many ups and downs that I could feel the frustration of the characters. But it made for a better read and a stronger plot. There are parts during this book where I couldn't stop laughing. It's full of brilliant one liners (mostly from Aunt Fanny), that made it seem like a book full of sunshine.
Each of the four characters are going through personal problems, and during the few special days in Italy they band together and gain major character development by the end.
One of my favourite parts of this was the added element of Sam. I think he brought out something special in Zoe, and even though his role is small I really liked the surprise element of their relationship and the push he gives her to follow her dreams.
Three Nights In Italy is a heartfelt story about hope, grief and going for what you want. The whole thing felt like one big hug and there were tears in my eyes when they finally reached Zoe's grandma's house and were looking at all her paintings. It's one of those books which can make you laugh and cry, and I really enjoyed the journey they all made to self discovery.
July 31, 2025
As a mom and grandma’s girl, this book hit home. Made me cry more than i thought it would. The characters, situations, feelings and emotions the book portrayed were felt deeper than i expected. Amazing read <3
August 3, 2025
Perfect read for traveling in Italy. Liked the focus on female relationships with a side of romance.
April 13, 2023
What a wonderfully easy read. When Zoe's magical grandmother dies the hunt is on to keep her uncle from auctioning off a sentimental family heirloom. However, where would the fun be if you didn't take your chaotic family on the journey with you? This is absolutely a story of self acceptance, discovery and remembering who you truly are even if the world and life get a bit loud every now and again.
Aunt Fanny was a fantastic addition to the trio and may just be my favourite character of the entire story.
NB: I usually adore a romance read but the family bonds in this were so strong I actually wasn't bothered by the minor sub plot romance!
Thank you Headline for the ARC copy
Aunt Fanny was a fantastic addition to the trio and may just be my favourite character of the entire story.
NB: I usually adore a romance read but the family bonds in this were so strong I actually wasn't bothered by the minor sub plot romance!
Thank you Headline for the ARC copy
April 9, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐ - What a cosy and uplifting read! I expected something light and easy going, but I got so much more then I bargained for with this really comforting but emotive read. From mothers, best friends and aunties, it really does celebrate the nourishing bonds we can have with the women in our lives. I also loved the dreamy landscape of Italy, being transported out of the cold months that we still seem to be clinging onto in the north of the UK, and into a beautiful summer setting. I love Italy and this made me want to escape and explore the rolling hills and Italian countryside. A really heart warming book of how we can all get a bit lost at times and how we can always find out way ❤️
February 26, 2024
3.5 audiobook
I loved this as an audiobook.
I love the dynamics of a gaggle of women having adventure after adventure—all while soaking in the warm descriptions of Italy.
I do wish that there was more consequences for the main antagonist in the story. It felt like he could just fade into the ending without any justice…
But it was an amazing audio experience.
I loved this as an audiobook.
I love the dynamics of a gaggle of women having adventure after adventure—all while soaking in the warm descriptions of Italy.
I do wish that there was more consequences for the main antagonist in the story. It felt like he could just fade into the ending without any justice…
But it was an amazing audio experience.
April 1, 2024
idk 3.5 rounded down?
Nothing stuck out, the story tied up all its ends and everyone got happy endings :)
Was a cute read, set in Italy!! Ellie and I picked this up as our book club book for our trip in Italy. It was a really fun idea, and I think I want to do this more often.
Nothing stuck out, the story tied up all its ends and everyone got happy endings :)
Was a cute read, set in Italy!! Ellie and I picked this up as our book club book for our trip in Italy. It was a really fun idea, and I think I want to do this more often.
November 23, 2024
This was gifted to me, and I've not come across the author before. I got completely engrossed in the story and really enjoyed the relationships between the three generations of women.
It reminds you to appreciate the special people in your life and enjoy life.
It reminds you to appreciate the special people in your life and enjoy life.
May 27, 2024
I really liked this book. Adventures and family.
May 30, 2025
Heartfelt book about family relationships and dealing with the challenges that come with them. Strengthened my belief that life is too short to hold on to those things that weigh heavy on you but hold on tight to the people that lift you up. Also to not put off checking things off your bucket list.
February 2, 2025
Book says it will be hilarious…it was not. A slow read and predictable at the end
August 15, 2025
A nice easy read.
August 5, 2023
Missing Italy hours
March 27, 2023
Three Nights in Italy is a wonderful, humorously, comical, uplifting story about a group of women, different ages and at very different stages in their lives. When the matriarch of the family dies, mother and daughter deal with the death in very different ways. But, with the help of old and new friends, they begin the healing process, and each begin a new chapter.
When Angie’s mother, Zoe’s grandmother, an artist who lived in Italy passes away, the two women are devastated. Although she was in her 90’s the thought of her not being in their lives never seemed possible. But both are devastated.
Angie’s solution is to continue on as if nothing has happened. She continues to run her life as always, doing errands, baking and cooking. Zoe’s solution is to mourn the loss. A wedding planner, she dives into work, but can’t help but feel she needs something from her grandmother to remember her by. She had always been promised her grandmother’s engagement ring which she never took off.
So, when Angie’s brother, Zoe’s uncle, Reggie makes the decision to go over to Italy to sell everything, Zoe doesn’t trust him to take the ring back with him. She decides she needs to go to her grandmother’s house in Italy and find the ring before Uncle Reggie sells it. But her mother refuses to go.
Enter Zoe’s best friend Harriet who is having her own life crisis. She hates her job. Her mother, an older woman remarried and has a new infant. She hardly pays any attention to Harriet anymore, barely remembering she even has an older daughter. Harriet feels as if her mother has a new family, and she is not included.
So, when Zoe asks Harriet to go to Italy with her, she knows she’s half-way there. And finally, they convince Angie to come, with the help of an old friend. Off they go! But nothing goes right to say the least! It’s a scene out of planes, trains and automobiles!
As their journey progresses, the women begin to learn quite a bit about themselves and each other and although they all can’t seem to get out of each other’s way, they become a united front in getting to the house and finding the ring for Zoe.
With so many hilarious plot twists, all you can do is root for these women as they begin to grow stronger with the help, it seems, from the strongest woman they all ever knew.
Three Nights in Italy is a romantic, funny, and empowering story with characters you will fall in love with and begin to miss even before the ending!
Thank you #NetGalley #Headline/HatchettPublishing #OliviaBeirne # ThreeNightsinItaly for the advanced copy. Please note that the Kindle version will be released on April 13 and the Paperback will be released on July 4.
When Angie’s mother, Zoe’s grandmother, an artist who lived in Italy passes away, the two women are devastated. Although she was in her 90’s the thought of her not being in their lives never seemed possible. But both are devastated.
Angie’s solution is to continue on as if nothing has happened. She continues to run her life as always, doing errands, baking and cooking. Zoe’s solution is to mourn the loss. A wedding planner, she dives into work, but can’t help but feel she needs something from her grandmother to remember her by. She had always been promised her grandmother’s engagement ring which she never took off.
So, when Angie’s brother, Zoe’s uncle, Reggie makes the decision to go over to Italy to sell everything, Zoe doesn’t trust him to take the ring back with him. She decides she needs to go to her grandmother’s house in Italy and find the ring before Uncle Reggie sells it. But her mother refuses to go.
Enter Zoe’s best friend Harriet who is having her own life crisis. She hates her job. Her mother, an older woman remarried and has a new infant. She hardly pays any attention to Harriet anymore, barely remembering she even has an older daughter. Harriet feels as if her mother has a new family, and she is not included.
So, when Zoe asks Harriet to go to Italy with her, she knows she’s half-way there. And finally, they convince Angie to come, with the help of an old friend. Off they go! But nothing goes right to say the least! It’s a scene out of planes, trains and automobiles!
As their journey progresses, the women begin to learn quite a bit about themselves and each other and although they all can’t seem to get out of each other’s way, they become a united front in getting to the house and finding the ring for Zoe.
With so many hilarious plot twists, all you can do is root for these women as they begin to grow stronger with the help, it seems, from the strongest woman they all ever knew.
Three Nights in Italy is a romantic, funny, and empowering story with characters you will fall in love with and begin to miss even before the ending!
Thank you #NetGalley #Headline/HatchettPublishing #OliviaBeirne # ThreeNightsinItaly for the advanced copy. Please note that the Kindle version will be released on April 13 and the Paperback will be released on July 4.
Read
February 20, 2023To me, this story is much more about taking chances, women supporting each other and the enduring love of family and friends than comedy. I think that labeling it as hilarious may create unmet expectations for many readers. There are definitely funny parts. In fact, there are laugh out loud parts. However, it is the relationships among all four women that stand out to me. Each character has to also take a leap of faith in the hopes of either changing their life or reaching out for something important to them. I enjoyed that while there is light romance involved, that it wasn’t the focus of the story. The author has created enduring characters who the reader truly can care about.
April 30, 2023
Cornish wedding planner Zoe always thought that the vitality of her artist grandmother would keep her going for ever, so it hits her hard when the formidable Clarice finally passes away in her nineties. She is not the only one crushed by a tidal wave of grief - her mother Ange is struggling to cope too, and Zoe spends her time walking on egg shells around her, unconvinced by her protestations that she is 'fine'.
Clarice wished for her house in Italy to be cleared and her possessions auctioned off for charity after her death, but she had always promised Zoe her emerald engagement ring. Unfortunately, Zoe's boorish uncle Reggie is in charge of the arrangements and Zoe does not trust him one bit. She starts to think that the only solution might be to head out to Italy to look for the ring herself.
Zoe's best friend Harriet feels like she does not know where she belongs any more. She is fed up with her job as a hotel receptionist, and feels that her mother no longer wants her around now she has a new partner and baby. She and Zoe have been promising themselves an adventure for quite a while, so when Zoe suggest a trip to Italy, she is willing to drop everything at a moment's notice. What are best friends for after all?
Zoe has one more hurdle to negotiate. She is sure that her mother needs come too, so they can both say goodbye to the house that holds so many wonderful memories for them, but Ange refuses to even talk about the idea. Then a face from the past turns up out of the blue, and steam rollers them all into heading off to Italy...
Three Nights in Italy is a lovely combination of road trip adventure, buddy story, romantic extravaganza, and family drama, filled with moments that hit the emotional bitter-sweet spot. The central characters are all stuck in an 'everything is fine' rut, and it takes the loss of someone very dear to them all to make them address their unhappiness. There is a lot of baggage to be unpacked and sorted out between Ange and the person who arrives unexpectedly, and the only way they can deal with a painful situation is by going back in time to revisit the good times that made them close, and the bad times that broke their friendship apart. In parallel, Zoe and Harriet have preoccupations of their own to work through before they can find the courage to chase their dreams.
At the spine of the story is the impromptu trip to Italy, focusing on the search for the missing ring that was promised to Zoe. Beirne beautifully weaves threads about love, female friendship, romance, loss, and reconciliation through the adventure, which has moments of farcical caper to make you laugh, as well as poignant episodes to set you weeping - I did a lot of both while reading this book.
Beirne writes enchantingly about Italy, and the whole story thrums with evocative sights, sounds, and smells of the country - especially when it comes to food, wine, and the warmth of the people. Zoe and the gang worked their way into my heart, and I loved being with them on their emotional Italian journey.
Clarice wished for her house in Italy to be cleared and her possessions auctioned off for charity after her death, but she had always promised Zoe her emerald engagement ring. Unfortunately, Zoe's boorish uncle Reggie is in charge of the arrangements and Zoe does not trust him one bit. She starts to think that the only solution might be to head out to Italy to look for the ring herself.
Zoe's best friend Harriet feels like she does not know where she belongs any more. She is fed up with her job as a hotel receptionist, and feels that her mother no longer wants her around now she has a new partner and baby. She and Zoe have been promising themselves an adventure for quite a while, so when Zoe suggest a trip to Italy, she is willing to drop everything at a moment's notice. What are best friends for after all?
Zoe has one more hurdle to negotiate. She is sure that her mother needs come too, so they can both say goodbye to the house that holds so many wonderful memories for them, but Ange refuses to even talk about the idea. Then a face from the past turns up out of the blue, and steam rollers them all into heading off to Italy...
Three Nights in Italy is a lovely combination of road trip adventure, buddy story, romantic extravaganza, and family drama, filled with moments that hit the emotional bitter-sweet spot. The central characters are all stuck in an 'everything is fine' rut, and it takes the loss of someone very dear to them all to make them address their unhappiness. There is a lot of baggage to be unpacked and sorted out between Ange and the person who arrives unexpectedly, and the only way they can deal with a painful situation is by going back in time to revisit the good times that made them close, and the bad times that broke their friendship apart. In parallel, Zoe and Harriet have preoccupations of their own to work through before they can find the courage to chase their dreams.
At the spine of the story is the impromptu trip to Italy, focusing on the search for the missing ring that was promised to Zoe. Beirne beautifully weaves threads about love, female friendship, romance, loss, and reconciliation through the adventure, which has moments of farcical caper to make you laugh, as well as poignant episodes to set you weeping - I did a lot of both while reading this book.
Beirne writes enchantingly about Italy, and the whole story thrums with evocative sights, sounds, and smells of the country - especially when it comes to food, wine, and the warmth of the people. Zoe and the gang worked their way into my heart, and I loved being with them on their emotional Italian journey.
May 9, 2025
The book opens with a short story about magic and, of course, its importance. Zoe’s grandma is exactly the symbol of magic for her and her mom. For aunt Fanny as well.
When their corpus mundi dies, Zoe wants to get her a piece of magic that reminds her of grandma.
Zoe’s aunt Fanny (long gone), suddenly comes back in their lives and all four of them go to Italy, to Sulmona, to make sure that grandma‘s magic ring does not get auctioned, but instead it gets to the promised place.
After a while, since there were no news about Fanny, she tries to be there for Zoe and Angie, without telling them the burden she carries .
Four women, four stories, four burdens and a common goal. Zoe, Angie, Fanny and Zoe‘s best friend Harriet the book shows us the power of sacrifice and the power of change, of course. It reminds us of the things that matter most in life, and of those that should be cherished.
The story, even if its corpus mundi seems at first to have vanished, lets you to discover a new one, more powerful I believe, because it lets to discover your own.
On their way, a lot happens. Why won’t it, you think ?
Zoe finds love, finds magic and finds out that her job is not really everything.
Fanny gets the chance to spend time with her girls, which she missed quite a lot.
Angie learns how to breathe again and because of the three girls and because of the trip to Italy, she learns how to live again.
Harriet understands she will always be beloved. She needs just to find her way in life.
Zoe’s uncle well he’s a particular specimen, and I want to say more than that.
The book has a lot of courage in it, a lot of love and it’s a very good read.
If possible I would have given it more than five stars.
It is like a balm for the heart.
Like a ray of sunshine very much needed.
It tastes like hope.
Chapeau!
When their corpus mundi dies, Zoe wants to get her a piece of magic that reminds her of grandma.
Zoe’s aunt Fanny (long gone), suddenly comes back in their lives and all four of them go to Italy, to Sulmona, to make sure that grandma‘s magic ring does not get auctioned, but instead it gets to the promised place.
After a while, since there were no news about Fanny, she tries to be there for Zoe and Angie, without telling them the burden she carries .
Four women, four stories, four burdens and a common goal. Zoe, Angie, Fanny and Zoe‘s best friend Harriet the book shows us the power of sacrifice and the power of change, of course. It reminds us of the things that matter most in life, and of those that should be cherished.
The story, even if its corpus mundi seems at first to have vanished, lets you to discover a new one, more powerful I believe, because it lets to discover your own.
On their way, a lot happens. Why won’t it, you think ?
Zoe finds love, finds magic and finds out that her job is not really everything.
Fanny gets the chance to spend time with her girls, which she missed quite a lot.
Angie learns how to breathe again and because of the three girls and because of the trip to Italy, she learns how to live again.
Harriet understands she will always be beloved. She needs just to find her way in life.
Zoe’s uncle well he’s a particular specimen, and I want to say more than that.
The book has a lot of courage in it, a lot of love and it’s a very good read.
If possible I would have given it more than five stars.
It is like a balm for the heart.
Like a ray of sunshine very much needed.
It tastes like hope.
Chapeau!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 17, 2023
‘ there are no clouds here’
Zoe always knew this day would come. She knows it's time to return to her grandmother's home in Italy one last time. Even if that means deceiving her mum, Ange.
Harriet doesn't know where she fits anymore. The trip to Italy may not be the adventure Zoe and Harriet promised themselves, but Harriet is simply not being left behind.
Ange was doing fine. Well, she was coping. But since her mother's death, nothing has felt fine. Even her relationship with Zoe is cracking at the seams.
Then, the last person any of them expects to see suddenly turns up, and soon it seems the only way to move forward is to revisit the past . . .
I was always going to love this book, I’ve had it on my shelf for a little while, just waiting, so I could read it in Italy. It was just a balm for my soul, it is about family, taking chances and perhaps changing your life. It is written with love and is full of joy and humour.
‘ I know, but life isn’t always fair, Ange.’….’A lot of the time, she’s actually a bit of a bitch.’
I think probably Fanny was my favourite character, sassy, edgy, with her own demons to fight but full of love for her pals Ange and Zoe, in my head I imagined her a bit like Marlene from Only Fools And Horses but way cooler!
I also loved Grandma, even though she gets few lines, she infiltrates the novel with colour, life and creativity, the thread that binds the women together.
‘Come on,’ I say. ‘Everyone show your best red wine mouth. I want a picture of this.’
One of those books that is in fact a hug ❤️
Zoe always knew this day would come. She knows it's time to return to her grandmother's home in Italy one last time. Even if that means deceiving her mum, Ange.
Harriet doesn't know where she fits anymore. The trip to Italy may not be the adventure Zoe and Harriet promised themselves, but Harriet is simply not being left behind.
Ange was doing fine. Well, she was coping. But since her mother's death, nothing has felt fine. Even her relationship with Zoe is cracking at the seams.
Then, the last person any of them expects to see suddenly turns up, and soon it seems the only way to move forward is to revisit the past . . .
I was always going to love this book, I’ve had it on my shelf for a little while, just waiting, so I could read it in Italy. It was just a balm for my soul, it is about family, taking chances and perhaps changing your life. It is written with love and is full of joy and humour.
‘ I know, but life isn’t always fair, Ange.’….’A lot of the time, she’s actually a bit of a bitch.’
I think probably Fanny was my favourite character, sassy, edgy, with her own demons to fight but full of love for her pals Ange and Zoe, in my head I imagined her a bit like Marlene from Only Fools And Horses but way cooler!
I also loved Grandma, even though she gets few lines, she infiltrates the novel with colour, life and creativity, the thread that binds the women together.
‘Come on,’ I say. ‘Everyone show your best red wine mouth. I want a picture of this.’
One of those books that is in fact a hug ❤️
April 11, 2023
This was a really beautiful book about 4 women going on a journey, both physically and mentally/emotionally. While they were all on the same physical journey, each had their own personal journey to go on and the dual POV really helped us to see how each woman was coping and travelling on their journey. All four women were really likeable characters. There might be moments when you question them but they're all just trying to cope with their own battles in their own way and help each other find their place in the world.
I love Italy, and while I've never been, it's always been number 1 on my list of holiday destinations I'd like to go to, so I absolutely loved the setting. The scenery was beautiful and I'll be sure to visit Sulmona one day and eat confetti (even though I don't like almonds, but I feel like it must be done!).
As a big romance reader I loved the little added romance for Zoe (the main of the four women). It wasn't made a big deal of because it wasn't a central part of the journey but I felt like it did really add something to the story for me.
There were a couple of little inconsistencies which niggled at me but otherwise it was a perfect story that I thoroughly enjoyed. This was my first Olivia Beirne novel and I'll definitely be going back and reading some of her others.
Thank you to Headline Books for a physical copy of the book to read for this tour. And thank you to NetGalley for a copy before I got invited to the tour.
I love Italy, and while I've never been, it's always been number 1 on my list of holiday destinations I'd like to go to, so I absolutely loved the setting. The scenery was beautiful and I'll be sure to visit Sulmona one day and eat confetti (even though I don't like almonds, but I feel like it must be done!).
As a big romance reader I loved the little added romance for Zoe (the main of the four women). It wasn't made a big deal of because it wasn't a central part of the journey but I felt like it did really add something to the story for me.
There were a couple of little inconsistencies which niggled at me but otherwise it was a perfect story that I thoroughly enjoyed. This was my first Olivia Beirne novel and I'll definitely be going back and reading some of her others.
Thank you to Headline Books for a physical copy of the book to read for this tour. And thank you to NetGalley for a copy before I got invited to the tour.
March 29, 2023
A wonderful novel about family, love, and the power of forgiveness. The book alternates POV between 4 characters - Zoe, her mom Angie, her long lost Aunt Fanny, and Zoe's bff Harriett. Zoe's grandmother passes away, leaving everyone shocked and full of grief, especially her mom Angie. Angie's brother, Reggie, is a greedy and swarmy man who is handling the auction of their mother's items in Italy, where she had a home, including original paintings that are worth thousands and her engagement ring that she always wore and promised to Zoe. But Uncle Reggie claims he cannot find the ring so the 4 women set off to Italy to search for the ring. They have quite an adventure traveling, meeting interesting people and drinking lots of wine along the way.
The character development and the scenery made me feel I was right there with them - made me feel part of the family. A quick read that leaves you all warm and fuzzy about family, forgiveness, and life's sweet and surprising adventures. The only thing that 'bugged' me about the book is that everyone smoked....nothing wrong with that is just that you don't see that too often in novels.
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
The character development and the scenery made me feel I was right there with them - made me feel part of the family. A quick read that leaves you all warm and fuzzy about family, forgiveness, and life's sweet and surprising adventures. The only thing that 'bugged' me about the book is that everyone smoked....nothing wrong with that is just that you don't see that too often in novels.
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
April 9, 2023
Told from the perspectives of 4 women - Zoe, her mum Ange, her best friend Harriet, and her aunt Fanny - this book is a heartwarming story all about family relationships and friendship, breaking away from perceived expectations and finding your place in the world, alongside dealing with grief, illness, deception and more. The basic premise of going on a journey to find a precious item is quite simple, but there are lots of little (and not so little) plot twists and distractions along the way - a lot of which tend to involve nice Italian wine! In the end, it's less about what they went to Italy to find and more about what they discovered about themselves as individuals and together.
I thoroughly enjoyed being transported to the beautiful Italian locations and I also loved a lot about the story and the characters. The only thing I didn't love so much was some of the added information/situations that didn't feel entirely necessary or like they added to the main storyline. I also got a tad confused sometimes as to which POV I was reading with there being four POVs to follow, but that's definitely a me + brain fog problem, and not a problem with this book! All that being said, I definitely recommend Three Nights In Italy as a solid summer read 🇮🇹
I thoroughly enjoyed being transported to the beautiful Italian locations and I also loved a lot about the story and the characters. The only thing I didn't love so much was some of the added information/situations that didn't feel entirely necessary or like they added to the main storyline. I also got a tad confused sometimes as to which POV I was reading with there being four POVs to follow, but that's definitely a me + brain fog problem, and not a problem with this book! All that being said, I definitely recommend Three Nights In Italy as a solid summer read 🇮🇹
April 11, 2023
Headlines:
A lot can happen in three nights
Women for women
Easy, breezy reading
Three Nights in Italy is the ideal weekend or holiday read, the kind that once you dip your toe in, the time just flies by while you absorb. This was a very female-centric read, with four women, total opposites to one another but they empowered and supported each other (mostly, eventually).
Zoe, Harriet, Ange and Fanny were brought together by a tangible grief from the matriach of Zoe and Ange's family. While grief for a loved one was central to this story, it didn't overwhelm, nor did it feel flippant. There was a choatic feeling to these four and how they navigated life, especially Zoe and Harriet. Ange and Fanny were a mysterious pair.
I loved the adventure to Italy and what they found there. The loosening up of these characters, the way they confronted life and each other was entertaining. The romance was very low level and to be honest, it was the element of the story I was least interested in.
This was a hopeful and uplifting read with flawed but relatable characters. Great easy reading.
Thank you to Headline Books for the review copy.
A lot can happen in three nights
Women for women
Easy, breezy reading
Three Nights in Italy is the ideal weekend or holiday read, the kind that once you dip your toe in, the time just flies by while you absorb. This was a very female-centric read, with four women, total opposites to one another but they empowered and supported each other (mostly, eventually).
Zoe, Harriet, Ange and Fanny were brought together by a tangible grief from the matriach of Zoe and Ange's family. While grief for a loved one was central to this story, it didn't overwhelm, nor did it feel flippant. There was a choatic feeling to these four and how they navigated life, especially Zoe and Harriet. Ange and Fanny were a mysterious pair.
I loved the adventure to Italy and what they found there. The loosening up of these characters, the way they confronted life and each other was entertaining. The romance was very low level and to be honest, it was the element of the story I was least interested in.
This was a hopeful and uplifting read with flawed but relatable characters. Great easy reading.
Thank you to Headline Books for the review copy.
February 27, 2023
"Three Nights in Italy" is an enjoyable and amusing read about a family dealing with the loss of a loved one. After Angie’s mother (Zoe’s grandmother) Clarice dies in Italy, where she has spent half her life, she is buried in her home town of Truro in Cornwall. Angie seems to be unable to cope with her grief and Zoe is also unhappy, despite having the distraction of work.
When Angie’s rather shady sounding brother Reggie announces that he is arranging an auction of all the contents of Clarice’s home in Sulmano both women are concerned. However, it takes the unexpected arrival of Angie’s ex sister-in-law Fanny to stir them in to action. This is the story of their trip to Italy, along Zoe’s best friend Harriet, to check on exactly what Reggie is up to.
As events contrive to delay their journey emotions come more to the fore and truths are gradually revealed.
Thanks to Net Galley and the publishers for the opportunity to review this book.
When Angie’s rather shady sounding brother Reggie announces that he is arranging an auction of all the contents of Clarice’s home in Sulmano both women are concerned. However, it takes the unexpected arrival of Angie’s ex sister-in-law Fanny to stir them in to action. This is the story of their trip to Italy, along Zoe’s best friend Harriet, to check on exactly what Reggie is up to.
As events contrive to delay their journey emotions come more to the fore and truths are gradually revealed.
Thanks to Net Galley and the publishers for the opportunity to review this book.
April 10, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC and the privilege of reading this nice and early.
I've read Olivia Beirne's novels before. There is never a disappointment and Three Nights in Italy carries on this theme.
We meet a trio or related women from the off and immediately I was invested in Ange, Zoe and her Grandmother and wanted to join whatever was thrown their way. The story unfolded and in came Zoe's best mate and aunt and characters each clearly had their story and road to travel on, but the author weaved them together in a way that blended and didn't over complicate.
I loved the humour in this book, I just wanted more of it! The story was uplifting and occasionally sad but I never felt it was melancholy for the sake of it. The mood fitted the book and felt incredibly realistic.
Hurrah for having a male redhead as the hottie - this impressed me greatly!
Another terrific story, one I shall recommend.
I've read Olivia Beirne's novels before. There is never a disappointment and Three Nights in Italy carries on this theme.
We meet a trio or related women from the off and immediately I was invested in Ange, Zoe and her Grandmother and wanted to join whatever was thrown their way. The story unfolded and in came Zoe's best mate and aunt and characters each clearly had their story and road to travel on, but the author weaved them together in a way that blended and didn't over complicate.
I loved the humour in this book, I just wanted more of it! The story was uplifting and occasionally sad but I never felt it was melancholy for the sake of it. The mood fitted the book and felt incredibly realistic.
Hurrah for having a male redhead as the hottie - this impressed me greatly!
Another terrific story, one I shall recommend.
July 5, 2025
I loved it - made me laugh and cry. It’s about a mother-daughter and grandmother relationship as well as friends among 20 something’s and middle age ladies. Maybe I just relate to some of the characters and the life situations but I thought the dynamics were believable and interesting. It went back and forth with points of view from the four different women but it was easy to follow and quite funny to hear their different takes on each other. I love the short chapters and growth and vulnerability of the women. It was what I needed to read right now. But I do think it could use a different title for the book. Too long and sounds like a memoir, not fiction. I would instead call it “Italian Break” or something like that because the heart of the book is in Italy and is about breakdowns- train break and people breaking down and rebuilding themselves.
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