One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle

Book Review: One Italian Summer

Rebecca Serle explores the meaning of relationships in her latest book, One Italian Summer. After experiencing the loss of her mother, the main character, Katy, takes a trip to Positano, on the Amalfi Coast. Her mother always spoke of Positano with fondness and love, and Katy had purchased tickets for the two of them to go together when her mother recovered from cancer. 

At 30, Katy is questioning her marriage and what to do now that her mother is gone. She feels lost and confused, and she is determined to find herself during her trip to Italy. During her trip, she meets many people, including a friendly American (one she finds easy to flirt with or is it just being in Italy?!), and most shockingly, her mother. Although, this version of her mother (Carol) is much younger, and Katy is able to bond with her in a way she never could before. Katy is able to see her as an independent woman, with her own dreams and aspirations, separate from her father or the life they shared before her death. 

I know that I have said this in many previous reviews, but this theme has been very common in the books that I’ve been reading lately, and it is certainly present in this novel as well — self-discovery. Throughout the story, Katy begins to recognize what is truly important in life and what she wants out of it. She considers every aspect, including her marriage and whether she wants to continue putting in the work to fix it, or walk away. Since this version of her mother does not know who she is, Katy is able to experience Positano in a way she never would have been able to before. Katy’s mother takes her on adventures that help Katy realize what she truly wants out of her own life.

In short, I would call this book magical and I can’t forget to mention the beautiful scenery and food described throughout the novel! I really enjoyed One Italian Summer and highly recommend it, as it was a great escape, and very quick to read. :)