History & Wine

Summertime is the perfect time to curl up with a great book, especially, if it’s just too darn hot to head outside. In the midst of July, you can usually find me cuddled on the couch in the comfortable a/c with a book in hand and a couple of sweet kitties laying around. A slice of paradise at home.

Last month, I was sent a book as part of a wine sample (thank you to The Pinot Project). I actually think this is a great promotion of both reading and enjoying some vino. I often like to drink a glass or two of wine as I read, and I love how The Pinot Project put that together. I received two wines in cans — still works just fine for this model. Think crisp, refreshing Pinot Grigio in a chilled single-serving. They also sent a rosé from France.

The book I received and recently finished is called One Italian Summer by author, Rebecca Serle. This story offers a mode of transport to the dreamy Italian Amalfi Coast where we find ourselves (in our mind’s eye) in Positano.

In One Italian Summer, the main character, Katy, is trying to come to terms with the death of her mother, who she was very close to and lived to please. The women had planned a trip together to Positano, but Katy’s mom passed before they were scheduled to leave.

What happens throughout the course of the book is a bit of fantasy and a bit of real-life thought-provoking scenarios that Katy finds herself in as she explores a part of the world that is both foreign to her and mysteriously comforting. A 30-year-old’s coming-of-age story weaves its way into the chapters.

This easy-peasy summer read offers a glimpse into the grief of a daughter who has lost a parent, along with all of the complicated emotions that follow as one woman discovers the secrets left by another. And don’t forget the romance! There is always romance in Italy, and One Italian Summer doesn’t forget that either.

If you can’t make it over to Italy this summer, this book might help a little… maybe. Although, it is kind of hard to read about beautiful, dreamy locations when we cannot travel there ourselves. At the very least, it might leave you craving some delicious southern Italian seafood. (Thank goodness for Sapore di Mare here in Miami!)

I’d recommend One Italian Summer for the wanderluster at heart, who also needs to read something with a heartfelt message. You won’t need much time for this one if you’re a quick reader. So, sit back, grab a glass of something cool and refreshing, and enjoy this warm summer read.

For more book recommendations, check out my book reviews page on History & Wine.