Published: Park Row
Date: 6th June 2023
Source: Publicist via NetGalley
When a relationship expert’s own marriage falls apart, she invites four strangers to Italy for a vacation of healing and second chances in this uplifting new novel from the author of The Messy Lives of Book People.
Ginny Splinter, acclaimed radio host and advice expert, prides herself on knowing what’s best for others. So she’s sure her husband, Adrian, will love the special trip to Italy she’s planned for their thirtieth wedding anniversary. But when Ginny presents the gift to Adrian, he surprises her with his own very different plan—a divorce.
Beside herself with heartache, Ginny impulsively invites four heartbroken listeners to join her in Italy instead while live on air. From hiking the hills of Bologna to riding a gondola in Venice to sharing stories around the dining table of the little Italian hotel, Ginny and her newfound company embark on a vacation of healing.
However, when Adrian starts to rethink their relationship, Ginny must decide whether to commit to her marriage or start afresh, alone. And an unexpected stranger may hold the key to a very different future… Sunny, tender and brimming with charm, The Little Italian Hotel explores marriage, identity and reclaiming the present moment—even if it means leaving the past behind.
A very eclectic group of five arrive at the Hotel Splendido in Bologna, Italy, thanks to Ginny Splinter inviting them to spend time there. Each one of them is hurting and in need of healing – each endeavouring to hide the hurt in their hearts.
Through group events suggested by each they come to new understandings of themselves, in bumpy steps. Ginny as mentioned in the blurb has a marriage that is struggling and her relationship with her husband appears to be at a possible end.
Eric has lost a greatly beloved dog, Edna an 80 year old – her husband and daughter, Daisy. Heather a teacher is struggling with a mother who has had to go into care and no longer remembers things or people. Curtis is an enigma who eventually cracks and shares what is in his mind and heart. As they level with each other a friendship develops that makes the group very important to each of them.
So whereto now as the three week holiday ends? For sure, each of them is changed in some way.
This book is filled with Italian food and scenery and the development of warm and caring friendships. How does each character come to resolve their heartache? Read the book to discover how it all works out for each of them. I enjoyed the journey.
Phaedra Patrick is the bestselling author of several novels, including The Curious Charms of Arthur Pepper, which has been translated into twenty-five languages worldwide. Her second novel, Rise and Shine Benedict Stone, was made into a Hallmark movie. An award-winning short story writer, she previously studied art and marketing and has worked as a stained glass artist, film festival organizer and communications manager. Phaedra lives in Saddleworth, UK, with her family.
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