Synopsis
Lina is spending the summer in Tuscany, but she isn’t in the mood for Italy’s famous sunshine and fairy-tale landscape. She’s only there because it was her mother’s dying wish that she get to know her father. But what kind of father isn’t around for sixteen years? All Lina wants to do is go back home.
But then she is given a journal that her mom had kept when she lived in Italy. Suddenly Lina’s uncovering a magical world of secret romances, art, and hidden bakeries. A world that inspires her, along with the ever-so-charming Ren, to follow in her mother’s footsteps and unearth a secret that has been kept for far too long. It’s a secret that will change everything she knew about her mother, her father—and even herself.
Thoughts
I loved this sweet young adult coming of age / romance story so much. I felt a special connection to the book since I visited Italy when I was a teenager. I had a lot of fun reliving a bit of my youth through Lina.
This book’s beautiful scenery and (mostly) lovable characters had me turning the pages as fast as I could. I enjoyed the romance and cozy mystery aspects of the story, as they provided some depth and the opportunity for personal growth. Lina was an endearing character, so I found myself truly invested in her journey.
I am happy that I finally moved this to the top of my TBR. I look forward to reading the other two books in this series!
Question
What’s your favorite flavor of gelato (or ice cream)?