Ebook: 320 pages
Genre: Contemporary Romantic Fiction
Publisher: Boldwood Books May 14th 2025
Source: NetGalley
First Sentences: Natalie studied the photograph: the prow of a gondola just passing under the Rialto Bridge, golden light bathing the Grand Canal.
Review Quote: 'She has a way of bringing Italy to life that makes your mouth water when you think of the food, your body ache for some sunshine.' Susan Buchanan
My Opinion:
I had not come across this author before, but when I discovered that she writes contemporary feel good fiction set in Italy, as an Italophile I just had to read 'One Summer in Italy'
Natalie and Cate are the main protagonists of the story. Natalie is sent to Venice for a work project, a city she has unhappy memories of, from a school trip many years ago. Imagine her shock when she finds an ex school friend from the same trip is also in Venice for the same project. forced to confront the past, the story unfolds as Natalie and Cate endeavour to put things right between them.
An escapist read which felt rather predictable. However this is made up for by being set in Venice and the author has shown her love of the city in the details. Recommended to Italophiles.
Thank you NetGalley, Victoria Springfield and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read and review.
Goodreads Précis:
A BRAND NEW beautiful, romantic, getaway read from bestseller Victoria Springfield that you simply won't be able to stop thinking about... A stunning story of secrets and second chances.
A return to Venice. A friendship rekindled. A time for romance.
Natalie’s landed the opportunity of a lifetime hosting television show 'Luxe Life Swap', but she’s dreading going back to Venice, scene of the school trip that changed her life. The beauty of the floating city and handsome watch restorer Eraldo begin to win her over, however. But then glamorous contestant Cate arrives, the girl who was once plain, ordinary Cathy – the ex-best friend Natalie blames for the night that wrecked her life.
Cate’s swapping The Old Vicarage for two weeks in a Venetian palazzo, hoping she might pluck up the courage to go on the quest she’s been putting off for more than twenty years. Forced to spend time with Natalie, Cate hopes to rebuild their friendship – until Natalie makes a shocking accusation against Cate’s husband. Cate needs to find out the truth but how can she expect Phil to be honest when she’s keeping secrets of her own?
Author Profile:
Courtesy of Amazon Profile
Victoria Springfield writes contemporary women’s fiction immersed in the sights, sounds and flavours of Italy. Her feel-good stories follow unforgettable characters of all ages as they find adventure, friendship and romance.
Victoria grew up in Upminster, Essex. After many years in London, she now lives in Kent with her husband in a house by the river. She likes to write in the garden with a neighbour’s cat by her feet or whilst drinking cappuccino in her favourite café. Then she types up her scribblings in silence whilst her mind drifts away to Italy. Open a Victoria Springfield book and feel the sunshine!
Victoria is a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association.
Photographs and Biographical Information courtesy of the following sites:
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