The Little Italian Hotel: A Novel by Phaedra Patrick

 

(Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!)

about book:

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 twenty-fifth 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. 

my thoughts:

Ginny and her husband, Adrian,  are about to celebrate 25 years of wedded bliss, so she decides to plan an Italian getaway. Except, her husband decides to surprise her with a divorce. Yep, it seems that Ginny will not be celebrating a happily ever after. Heartbroken and unable to cancel her Italian adventure, she impulsively invites four heartbroken listeners - she has a popular radio show - to join her. Talk about a motley crew. 

In Italy, Ginny and her guests begin their journey of healing by checking into a quaint little hotel and trying their hand at hiking, quilting, and so much more. They soon find themselves opening up to one another and having a wonderful time. In fact, Ginny begins to take an interest in the hotel owner and realize that she wasn't that happy in her marriage. Just as she starts to envision a different future for herself, Adrian shows up in Italy - he's rethinking the divorce. Now, Ginny must decide what she truly wants for her life.

Patrick has written a terrific story that is heartwarming and uplifting. It will draw you in and sweep you away to Italy, where you can't help but get caught up in this group's stories and adventures. Such a treat to read!

I would happily recommend The Little Italian Hotel to anyone and everyone - you will fall in deep with this one! Make sure to check it out!

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy this book!