One Italian Summer by Rebecca Serle

Katy's mother Carol was more than just a mother to her.  She was her best friend and Katy doesn't know what her life is supposed to look like without her mother in it.  They had planned a trip together to visit Positano so Carol could show Katy all the beauty that beloved city has to offer, since it was where Carol spent the summer before she met Katy's father.  Still reeling from the her mother's death, Katy decides to embark on the trip alone.  When she arrives, she can certainly see why her mother loved this area so much.  Then, she sees Carol, looking absolutely stunning and 30 years old.  Katy cannot understand what is happening, but if she has the opportunity to spend even one more minute with her mother, she is going to do everything it takes to do so.  

I related to this book on so many levels.  My mom was also my best friend and my everything, so when she passed away suddenly, I felt so many of the emotions that Katy had.  I thought the author did a wonderful job handling that sense of loss and really tapped into those feelings.  I think many of us would love to know our parents as their younger selves and ask all the questions we didn't ask when we had the chance.  The descriptions of the Amalfi coast are so vivid that I felt transported away from the snowy days we have had here.  

One Italian Summer was a beautiful novel that showcased the power of family bond and the love between a mother and daughter.  I received this book courtesy of the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.