Sunflower Publishing Book Reviews

    Gently Jolene By Angela  Scipioni SUMMARY: Have you ever dreamed of starting over in a new place? Jolene acted on that dream, and now she’s travelling to Italy on a one-way ticket. Jolene is a woman in her prime, brimming with hope for her future despite a broken marriage, a failed business venture, and the loss of her parents. Eager to leave her past disappointments behind, Jolene takes a leap of faith and accepts Filippo’s unexpected proposal to travel back to Italy’s fabled Cinque Terre with him. Thrilled at the prospect of a new life with her new love in one of the world’s most enchanting travel destinations, Jolene can't wait to begin the adventure of working alongside Filippo at Locanda Luisa, his family’s hotel in the village of Manarola. On her arrival, Jolene enthusiastically throws herself into learning the Italian language, adapting to the Ligurian culture, and figuring out how to relate to her future in-laws. But as she explores t...

    The Unravelling of Julia By Lisa Scottoline       SUMMARY: When Julia’s husband is brutally murdered in a random attack, her life unravels in ways she never could have foreseen. Haunted by his death and spiralling into despair, Julia seeks refuge in a secluded Italian villa she has mysteriously inherited from a stranger. But her sanctuary becomes a prison as she uncovers disturbing connections to her own past – and faces chilling threats that may not be imaginary. Caught between a heritage she doesn’t understand and a darkness she can’t escape, Julia must confront secrets that could cost her what little she has left. The Unravelling of Julia is a gripping, atmospheric tale of grief, memory, and a descent into psychological terror that will keep readers turning pages deep into the night.   MY REVIEW: If you ever wondered what a page turner was… this is it. Engrossing, exciting, suspenseful, compelling. Ghost meets Home Before Dark ...

    The Italian Village in The Hills    By Victoria Springfield SUMMARY: Stella has spent decades trying to forget the heartbreak that made her flee the Italian village of her childhood. But when her new fiancé surprises her with a trip back to Liguria for her upcoming birthday, she is forced to confront the past, her first love and a tragic family rift. Amy is mourning her beloved grandpa and curious to know more about the old coin necklace and mysterious postcard that he left her. Following his trail to the Italian Riviera, a chance meeting leads Amy to Stella’s village in the hills and to secrets that have lain buried since the war. Against a backdrop of cobbled medieval streets, sunlit piazzas and rustic olive groves, both Stella and Amy make surprising discoveries about their families – and themselves. By facing up to the past and opening their hearts, can Stella and Amy find happiness in the Italian village in the hills?   MY REVIEW: Wh...