The Village Trattoria: A sweeping World War II saga Paperback – 4 July 2024

I found this book captivating and learnt a lot about life in Italy, in 1943 I really enjoyed it, and cannot wait for a sequel

What a brilliant book! I knew little to nothing about the time period/Italian history and culture of the setting before I read The Enemy of Love and now I feel very much enlightened.The author does a brilliant job of bringing this part of history to life through very real, very believable characters that you genuinely root for. I loved the evocative descriptions of the place and the food (literally drooling, I have to get to Italy soon and try all the dishes described in the book!)The writing is fantastic—tight descriptions, no words wasted and a good pace of narrative kept throughout the book. I thought all the characters were well-developed, some I adored others I completely despised!Love, family, war, betrayal, FOOD and some very poignant words exchanged between characters... you must read this book. I devoured it in just a few days and can't wait for the sequel. Fantastic book!

Thanks to Netgalley.co.uk for the opportunity to read and review this bookAn enjoyable account of war torn Italy, fueding families, the resistance, family tradition, loves and losses, and survival.#TheEnemyOfLove #NetGalley

Liked.Did not like the ending. No mention of a sequel. Then found its first chapter at the very end. What a relief.Why have I not read anywhere about this captivating book and the author? I will now read her previous books.We read it as a book group. Universal approval.

I love atmospheric novels, and historical fiction and this novel ticked all my boxes. A love story - and it's one with plenty of spark - is played out against the end of World War II, when Mussolini is unseated and Germany tries to take control. I could really feel I was in Umbria with its ancient stone walls and tunnels and the characters brought it alive too, especially Giorgio, Sophia and Elena as well as wonderful other characters such as Isaac. I got lost in the story, but also the descriptions of the food and wine!

Really loved this book.People I cared about, vivid descriptions of the Italian setting (food, people and place) and a story that kept me turning the pages.There is a real sense of place and time. The war and its impacts on the families and townsfolk are at the heart of the story. The centre of the book revolves around Giorgio and Sophia, strong, relatable characters with their own destinies. The supporting characters are equally vivid and as a whole the town of Amatino feels so real, I can really see the people places and events which the author describes beautifully.Can't wait for the sequel!

Love has many colours... love of partners, friends, family, country....but also food. We are sustained by it just as we are sustained by love. This book weaves that love through the narrative of Italy during the war..a story I knew little of. Receiving this charming book as a gift, I thoroughly enjoyed it.

This book does not disappoint. I didn’t put it down . The book has history , romance , travel , love of food , suspense . Make this your book to read this summer 🏝️