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The Italian Holiday
Italy is always a good idea...
Struggling writer Keats McCall is Italy bound by Valentine’s Day – but it’s certainly not for amore. She needs to escape her mindless barista job, the four walls of the rented room closing in on her, and the memories of last year's disastrous break-up. Thank the Roman gods she can pack a bag and passport and run to her sister in Florence, Italy, in the hopes of getting her life back on track.
Keats expected to spend her days meandering through the rain-soaked cobblestone streets of Florence. What she didn’t expect was Lorenzo, who smells of espresso, Italian history and self-assurance, to propel her on an unimaginable journey.
From Florence to Venice, Keats basks in a luscious exploration of Italy and Lorenzo while she tries to figure out if the escapist mindset of an Italian Holiday can duct tape her life back together.
Struggling writer Keats McCall is Italy bound by Valentine’s Day – but it’s certainly not for amore. She needs to escape her mindless barista job, the four walls of the rented room closing in on her, and the memories of last year's disastrous break-up. Thank the Roman gods she can pack a bag and passport and run to her sister in Florence, Italy, in the hopes of getting her life back on track.
Keats expected to spend her days meandering through the rain-soaked cobblestone streets of Florence. What she didn’t expect was Lorenzo, who smells of espresso, Italian history and self-assurance, to propel her on an unimaginable journey.
From Florence to Venice, Keats basks in a luscious exploration of Italy and Lorenzo while she tries to figure out if the escapist mindset of an Italian Holiday can duct tape her life back together.
343 pages, ebook
Published February 7, 2023
About the author
Nicole Sharp
16 books43 followersLegend has it that Nicole Sharp was born to hippies during an ice storm in Stone Mountain, Georgia. While confirmation of said events cannot be agreed upon, one fact is for certain, it was a Tuesday. By age twelve, Nicole was sure of two things: 1) She wanted to be a writer and 2) She wanted to travel. She begged her parents to allow her to voyage alone to exotic lands. They permitted to go from California to Boise, Idaho to visit a great-grandmother.
These days, Nicole swigs cappuccinos the way a dehydrated sailor with scurvy would whiskey, as she writes about Italy, love, coffee and the quirky adventures of fearless women. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with no houseplants and three pink stovetop espresso makers.
These days, Nicole swigs cappuccinos the way a dehydrated sailor with scurvy would whiskey, as she writes about Italy, love, coffee and the quirky adventures of fearless women. She lives in the Pacific Northwest with no houseplants and three pink stovetop espresso makers.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
January 26, 2023
I only wish I had the denaro to take a trip to Florence, and I have a hunch that like me, you’ll want to jet away immediately (or at least dive into a bowl of fresh pasta) after reading The Italian Holiday – a light travelogue romance that’s the next best thing to being there. On her way to Italy where she’ll have her sister’s sympathetic shoulder to cry on, Keats strikes up an awkward conversation with dreamy Italian stallion Lorenzo, who’s gearing up to propose to his gf. (The strangers-on-a-plane set up is a callback to Sharp’s debut Big Trouble in Little Italy – must be something about the altitudes over the Atlantic that makes one overly talkative to seatmates!)
Keats’ life is in shambles, whereas Lorenzo appears to have his stuff together. They’re a cute and funny apples-and-oranges pairing right from the get go. Although you know it will all lead to a HEA ending (and let’s face it, who hasn’t fantasized about being swept up in a whirlwind love affair with a swarthy, sophisticated foreigner?), it’s a deliciously fun ride getting there as the two fight, flirt and figure it out in the swoony second half of the book, where Sharp’s trademark wit and snappy dialogue really shines. I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
Keats’ life is in shambles, whereas Lorenzo appears to have his stuff together. They’re a cute and funny apples-and-oranges pairing right from the get go. Although you know it will all lead to a HEA ending (and let’s face it, who hasn’t fantasized about being swept up in a whirlwind love affair with a swarthy, sophisticated foreigner?), it’s a deliciously fun ride getting there as the two fight, flirt and figure it out in the swoony second half of the book, where Sharp’s trademark wit and snappy dialogue really shines. I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.
June 24, 2023
Enjoyable journey
Keats/Olivia/Principessa (take your pick) is tired of staring at the snow around her apartment and finally decides to make a change in the scenario. She is the artsy type and literally lives in the moment and does not care about planning for the future and the rest.
With a small invitation from her sister, Keats packs her way to Italy with all her savings and she is ready for the next adventure in her life.
Enter Lorenzo. A banksy type and he just does not understand why the girl sitting on the plane next to him would not let him do his work in peace. Not only that, she refuses to stop talking and she manages to get him talking too.
Then naturally comes Lorenzo’s backstory - he is on the plane to visit his girlfriend and propose to her on Valentines Day.
But things rarely go that way and with an over-imaginative mind and Lorenzo being a genuinely good guy, Keats and Lorenzo spend a little more time with each other, before going on their own way.
The characters were beautifully etched - even the side characters.
The best part was the travel and the way Keats sees the place. Her chemistry with Lorenzo and the way they get along trying to know each other was beautiful to read about.
Overall, an enjoyable travel through Italy with a cute romance.
Keats/Olivia/Principessa (take your pick) is tired of staring at the snow around her apartment and finally decides to make a change in the scenario. She is the artsy type and literally lives in the moment and does not care about planning for the future and the rest.
With a small invitation from her sister, Keats packs her way to Italy with all her savings and she is ready for the next adventure in her life.
Enter Lorenzo. A banksy type and he just does not understand why the girl sitting on the plane next to him would not let him do his work in peace. Not only that, she refuses to stop talking and she manages to get him talking too.
Then naturally comes Lorenzo’s backstory - he is on the plane to visit his girlfriend and propose to her on Valentines Day.
But things rarely go that way and with an over-imaginative mind and Lorenzo being a genuinely good guy, Keats and Lorenzo spend a little more time with each other, before going on their own way.
The characters were beautifully etched - even the side characters.
The best part was the travel and the way Keats sees the place. Her chemistry with Lorenzo and the way they get along trying to know each other was beautiful to read about.
Overall, an enjoyable travel through Italy with a cute romance.
February 17, 2023
The Italian Holiday: Luscious; everything about this book is luscious- from the characters, to the exquisitely detailed settings, to the mouthwatering descriptions of food, wine and cappuccinos. I simultaneously couldn’t put this book down, but also wanted to savor every moment of it.
The story follows Keats McCall, a struggling writer who is just starting to get over a bad relationship and trying to figure out how to continue surviving and thriving as a writer while figuring out if she can truly break from traditional adulting goals (i.e. making money, holding a regular job, mortgage, nice car, etc.). Enter Lorenzo… First, minor savior, then acquaintance, then drunk lost soul, followed by travel companion, and finally friends and lovers. They journey through the highlights of Italy together, both trying to heal, both trying to step away from their realities for a time to experience life differently.
But this isn’t just a romance about healing broken hearts, finding new love, and a fun and sexy romp through the most romantic places in Italy. It’s also the romance that exists between a person and a specific place that they love, admire, and can find beauty in nearly every aspect that speaks to their soul and sense of place. It’s about the discovery of the person you could be, the recognition of the amazing parts that you already are, then falling in love with your dreams again while finding new passions amongst new hopes.
And author Nicole Sharp writes the reader into a dream-like state, allowing them to drift along with all the lusciousness of Keats’ journey. As you become magically lost in this Italian world of love, art, history, local color, delectable food, and majestic scenery, it will feel like you are there and on a true Italian holiday.
The story follows Keats McCall, a struggling writer who is just starting to get over a bad relationship and trying to figure out how to continue surviving and thriving as a writer while figuring out if she can truly break from traditional adulting goals (i.e. making money, holding a regular job, mortgage, nice car, etc.). Enter Lorenzo… First, minor savior, then acquaintance, then drunk lost soul, followed by travel companion, and finally friends and lovers. They journey through the highlights of Italy together, both trying to heal, both trying to step away from their realities for a time to experience life differently.
But this isn’t just a romance about healing broken hearts, finding new love, and a fun and sexy romp through the most romantic places in Italy. It’s also the romance that exists between a person and a specific place that they love, admire, and can find beauty in nearly every aspect that speaks to their soul and sense of place. It’s about the discovery of the person you could be, the recognition of the amazing parts that you already are, then falling in love with your dreams again while finding new passions amongst new hopes.
And author Nicole Sharp writes the reader into a dream-like state, allowing them to drift along with all the lusciousness of Keats’ journey. As you become magically lost in this Italian world of love, art, history, local color, delectable food, and majestic scenery, it will feel like you are there and on a true Italian holiday.
February 4, 2023
Nicole Sharp describes the historical sites, food, and people of Italy in such wonderful and vivid detail it makes me want to hop on plane tomorrow. But the chances of me meeting an insanely handsome businessman like Keats McCall did are pretty slim.
Keats’ adventures in Italy include luggage that travels without her to Istanbul and Scotland, visiting the historic sites, the best cappuccino she’s ever had, learning Italian, a refreshed creative well, and an unexpected romance with the handsome Lorenzo.
Sharp has delivers another winner.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review
Keats’ adventures in Italy include luggage that travels without her to Istanbul and Scotland, visiting the historic sites, the best cappuccino she’s ever had, learning Italian, a refreshed creative well, and an unexpected romance with the handsome Lorenzo.
Sharp has delivers another winner.
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review
February 7, 2023
I was caught up in the easy flowing story of main character ‘Keats’ escaping a heartbreak and reuniting with her broke, struggling college student younger sister studying abroad. And oh my gosh, when Lorenzo appears, you may see sexy steam seeping from the pages! Oh My! When Sharp’s character walk down a street in Italy or into a church, you will feel you are walking next to her, when she sips a cappuccino, a glass of wine, or tastes an Italian dish for the first time, your taste buds will react along with hers. When she tells you the history of a statue, fresco, or building, you will be transported back in time when it was created. Sharp’s writing style pulls you in and you feel the story. And the ending of this book; all I can say is that there is ‘hope for real love’
I have visited Florence lovingly each year for these past twenty years, and I no longer feeling like a tourist, but I want a ‘do over’. I want to see the city through the author’s eyes; though this book certainly helps.
I have visited Florence lovingly each year for these past twenty years, and I no longer feeling like a tourist, but I want a ‘do over’. I want to see the city through the author’s eyes; though this book certainly helps.
February 10, 2023
Ever been to Italy? I haven't, but I feel like I have after reading The Italian Holiday. This book has romance, Lorenzo, cappuccino, Italian language, suspense, Lorenzo...I could go on and on (Did I mention Lorenzo?!). The way Nicole describes the buildings and landmarks of Italy makes you feel as if you are there, walking through the story right alongside the characters. It's a beautiful romance and I promise you will be enthralled and anticipating what happens next. You may even learn a little Italian on your adventure! This book is a must read!
February 8, 2023
I loved everything about this book! I'm dreaming of Venice (and Italian men) while also missing my sister. The writing is funny and entertaining. I flew through this book.
May 8, 2023
Wow this writing was so engaging and probably the best ive read in a long time. Lorenzo damn he understands how to romance a women.
January 28, 2023
This book is a wonderful treat full of adventure and passion. The author expertly unveils the characters so that you feel connected to them and excited for what they experience. Providing carefully crafted details of Italy and its history, the author makes this sexy book an intriguing journey into the depths of pleasure.
January 18, 2024
I kinda loved this book. It's a quick read, and I learned a few Italian phrases. But mostly I love the descriptive writing about various cities and points of interest in Italy. Since I will probably never get there IRL, Nicole Sharp's writing is the next best thing. And the romance story line keeps things interesting as well, even if it is overly perfect.
I will read anything Ms. Sharp cares to write, whether it is about Italy or not; I enjoy her style.
I will read anything Ms. Sharp cares to write, whether it is about Italy or not; I enjoy her style.
September 1, 2025
The writing was incredible!
My problem with the book is that I am not an R or X-rated reader.
I wish there was some warning given - otherwise I wouldn't have bought the book.
The first half of the book kept my interest/kept me in stitches/had to see how things would go.
The last half was basically one sex scene after another.
If you like reading that type of book, this is for you.
My problem with the book is that I am not an R or X-rated reader.
I wish there was some warning given - otherwise I wouldn't have bought the book.
The first half of the book kept my interest/kept me in stitches/had to see how things would go.
The last half was basically one sex scene after another.
If you like reading that type of book, this is for you.
February 7, 2023
Keats McCall, a struggling writer needing a change in pace from a mundane job and last year’s disastrous breakup, decides to go to Italy - where her sister is, to enjoy Florence.
What she doesn’t expect is Lorenzo, who permeates espresso, Italian history, and self-confidence.
I’m ready to read. Yes, please!
I’m a romantic at heart. Okay, okay, you insist on the truth. I’m a hopeless romantic.
Turning to THE ITALIAN HOLIDAY, Sharp’s inclusion of details regarding Italy, pastries, and wine were interesting. I also liked how each of the characters, Keats and Lorenzo, started -who they were and where they were in life.
However, I needed to see more of how Keats and Lorenzo changed, how their relationship evolved. I also wanted to see more complexity to their struggles and conflict in the story at large to be pulled in. So, in the end, the story was not for me.
Thank you for the ARC, Nicole Sharp. The opinions voiced in this review are freely and solely mine.
What she doesn’t expect is Lorenzo, who permeates espresso, Italian history, and self-confidence.
I’m ready to read. Yes, please!
I’m a romantic at heart. Okay, okay, you insist on the truth. I’m a hopeless romantic.
Turning to THE ITALIAN HOLIDAY, Sharp’s inclusion of details regarding Italy, pastries, and wine were interesting. I also liked how each of the characters, Keats and Lorenzo, started -who they were and where they were in life.
However, I needed to see more of how Keats and Lorenzo changed, how their relationship evolved. I also wanted to see more complexity to their struggles and conflict in the story at large to be pulled in. So, in the end, the story was not for me.
Thank you for the ARC, Nicole Sharp. The opinions voiced in this review are freely and solely mine.
March 1, 2023
What a delight of a book! A romance set in beautiful Italy, with gorgeous food and locations, and two characters to fall in love with as they fall in love with one another. Lorenzo and Keats are a fabulous couple, and there’s a great supporting cast. But delightful though their love affair is, the biggest love affair in the book is with Italy itself, with its people, culture, food and history. I’ve not been to Italy, but this book made me want to go. I might not meet a lovely rich handsome sensitive Italian hunk as Keats does, but if I can eat some of that pasta or those pastries I’d die happy. Highly recommended.
October 21, 2024
The next time I visit Italy, I want Nicole Sharp to plan the trip. Her deep knowledge and love for Italy—its food, wine, cappuccinos, sights, sounds, and adventures—shine through on every page of The Italian Holiday. This laugh-out-loud rom-com is a delightful journey through a country brimming with charm and zest.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews