I read Rebecca Serle’s The Dinner List a few years ago when it was a Book of the Month pick and I loved it. Then In Five Years came out and once again, Serle was able to toy with my emotions once again. At this point she’s an auto-buy author for me and if you need something to tear up to, than her writing will fit the bill.
One Italian Summer follows Katy after the death of her mother, her best friend. Prior to their long planned trip to Italy, her mother succumbs to cancer leaving Katy to deal with the grief that comes with loosing a parent. Reeling from the death, Katy’s started to question her entire life, her purpose, and her marriage. Katy’s life is falling apart, and even though she’ll be going alone, heads out on the long planned trip to try and reconnect with her mother and understand who she really is.While in Positano, Italy, Katy bumps into her mother. At least it’s her mother from 30 years ago and so begins Katy’s journey to learning who her mother was.
Just like in her previous stories, I love that Serle explores the relationships of friendship and families. The characters even with their flaws are likable and extremely relatable. Thankfully, my mother is still alive and we have a great relationship, but it was easy to envision the pain Katy must have been feeling and the way she so easily lost herself with her mother’s passing.
Rebecca Serle has once again crafted an emotionally power and moving story. My favorite aspect of Serle’s writing though is her mix of magical realism with contemporary and powerful stories. I adored this story and can’t wait for another release from Serle!
One Italian Summer is out now! Huge thank you to Atria Books for my advanced copy in exchange for my honest opinion. If you liked this review please let me know either by commenting below or by visiting my instagram @speakingof_books.
Losing someone you dearly love is an unbearable experience. This book would probably be too difficult for me to read after the loss of a daughter, father, and in-laws. 😭
One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle is well written, with some fun twists and interesting premises. Thanks for sharing this. We have also reviewed this novel. Do read our review and share your comments. https://gobookmart.com/one-italian-summer-by-rebecca-serle-is-refreshing-and-relatable/