Book number 53 in my Goodreads Reading Challenge is Love at the Italian Lake by Darcie Boleyn.

Sophia Bertoni discovers her boyfriend in bed with another woman, and realizes her life is going nowhere. Leaving her high-pressure job, she travels to Italy to stay with her grandmother while she figures out her next move. 

When Sophia – quite literally – bumps into devastatingly handsome Joe Lancaster her plans are turned upside down. As the two realize they’re both spending the summer in the same town, a love affair seems on the cards. 

But Sophia and Joe are both burdened by family secrets. Despite their attraction, will the sun set on Sophia and Joe’s romance – or will they find love at the Italian lake? (Thanks Netgalley!)

So having recently read Christmas at Conwenna Cove, I decided to dive in with Darcie Boleyn’s Love at the Italian Lake, and I’m rather glad I did!  Firstly I love novels set in Europe.  I love reading about the vibrancy of those European towns, the beautiful culture and the stunning scenery.  Darcie Boleyn did not disappoint with this novel.

When Sophia finds herself at a crossroads in her life she decides to travel to Italy to spend time with her grandmother while she considers what path she will take.  What she finds is a new relaxing way of life, a closer relationship with her Italian grandmother and some unexpected attraction to the ridiculously attractive Joe!

Whilst the setting of this novel is a major plus for me, the story didn’t disappoint either.  There are life decisions to be made, family dramas to overcome and a sizzling romance thrown in for good measure.  If I was to make any criticism it would just be that despite quitting her job Sophia does not seem to have any financial worries – she’s dressed in designer gear and not particularly worried about paying her mortgage.  This is certainly not something that has ever happened to me, but then again the reason I love fiction so much is for the escapism from reality, so it’s not really an issue!

I really enjoyed this novel, it was a perfect summer romance and just what I needed as the weather turns colder.  I definitely want to book myself a trip to Italy and find myself a hunky man to enjoy the trip with (but shhh, don’t tell my husband!). I recommend you go out and get yourself a copy of this lovely novel.  Let me know what you think once you’ve read it!

Rating: 📖 📖 📖 📖