One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle

*** My Review ***

One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle is a captivating and emotional read that explores the themes of loss, family, second chances, and self-discovery. The novel tells the story of Kathy, who is struggling to come to terms with the sudden loss of her mother, her mentor, and best friend.

Kathy’s pain is palpable as she grapples with the loss of the person who was her confidante and guide in life. Her grief is compounded by the fact that she is also questioning her marriage and her place in the world. She decides to take a break from her life and heads to Positano, the dream vacation that she had planned with her mother for years.

But what happens next is beyond her wildest imagination. In Positano, Kathy encounters her mother – not the wise guide she knew, but a 30-year-old version of her mother who has no idea who she is. As they become friends, Kathy begins to see her mother in a new light and realizes that there is much more to her than she had ever imagined.

One Italian Summer is a unique and compelling paranormal mother-daughter story that will keep readers engaged from start to finish. Serle’s writing is powerful and evocative, transporting readers to the beautiful and exotic landscapes of Italy. The characters are well-drawn and complex, and readers will find themselves rooting for Kathy as she navigates the challenges of grief, self-discovery, and second chances.

From the very beginning of the book, I was drawn into the world of Katy and her struggles with the loss of her mother. Despite finding her somewhat unlikable at times, I couldn’t help but feel a deep sense of empathy for her as she navigated through her grief and confusion. The first-person narrative allowed me to feel as though I was right there with her, experiencing everything she was feeling.

Although Katy’s co-dependency on her mother was frustrating at times, it was also a powerful reminder of just how much influence our parents can have on our lives. And as Katy embarks on her journey to Positano, the reader is taken on a magical journey filled with delicious food, stunning views, and unexpected encounters.

One of the most remarkable aspects of One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle is how the author seamlessly blends elements of reality with the fictional narrative. The novel is set in Positano, a real town on the Amalfi Coast, which lends an authenticity and sense of place to the story. Serle also features a real family-run hotel in the area, which she brings to life with her vivid descriptions of the setting.

But what really stood out to me was the author’s ability to bring the setting to life with her beautiful and descriptive writing. I could practically taste the fresh seafood, feel the warmth of the Italian sun on my skin, and hear the sound of the waves crashing against the shore. It was like being transported to a different world entirely.

As I read the book, I found myself completely immersed in the beauty of Positano, the stunning vistas, and the warm hospitality of the locals. The author’s attention to detail is impeccable, and I was able to picture the town and the hotel in my mind’s eye with ease. In fact, I was so engrossed in the story that I didn’t even look up pictures of the hotel until halfway through the book – and when I did, I was amazed by how accurately Serle had captured the essence of the place.

Furthermore, what really sets this book apart is the raw and authentic portrayal of grief, loss, and the search for closure. As Kathy grapples with the death of her mother, she embarks on a journey to follow in her footsteps in Positano, hoping to gain some understanding of the woman she loved and lost. This quest takes her on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, as she confronts the memories of her past, comes to terms with her present, and grapples with the possibility of a future without her mother.

The idea of getting a second chance to say goodbye to a loved one is a theme that is sure to resonate with readers. It is a powerful reminder of the importance of cherishing the moments we have with the people we love and of the enduring nature of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

However it must be noted that Rebecca Serle has skillfully crafted Katy’s character in a way that makes her so relatable and empathetic to readers. However, it is important to note that while Katy’s dependency on her mother may have seemed endearing at first, it is evident that it has reached a point where it is hindering her growth as an individual. She struggles with the simplest of tasks such as choosing her own clothes or decorating her own home, which makes one wonder how much of her life has been lived in the shadow of her mother.

Furthermore, the idea of leaving her husband, who has been nothing but supportive and loving throughout her journey, simply because of her mother’s passing seems almost irrational. It shows just how deep Katy’s pain and confusion goes, and how she struggles to find her place in the world without her mother.

While the descriptions of the setting in Positano are breathtakingly beautiful, there were moments where they tended to overshadow the story. However, this can be forgiven as the town of Positano and the family-run hotel that inspired the setting are such integral parts of the story.

Overall, One Italian Summer is a touching and inspiring read that offers a message of hope and resilience. It is a must-read for anyone who has ever experienced loss or is looking for a heartwarming and inspiring story. I highly recommend this book to all readers who enjoy women’s fiction, paranormal, and family dramas. So, grab a copy, sit back, and get ready to be swept away on an unforgettable journey!