An Escape to Remember by T.A. WIlliams

 Last year I had the pleasure of joining the blog tour for author T.A. Williams' novel A Little Piece of Paradise, I found it warm and tender so there was no way I was passing up the opportunity to be able to read and review his latest novel.

The second book to be set in Italy, An Escape to Remember takes us to the hills of Turin, the perfect backdrop for a spot of romance . . .

When Louise surprises her boyfriend by returning early from a work trip, safe to say she wasn’t expecting to see him in flagrante delicto with another woman. Heart-torn and vowing to stay away from men, when Louise’s next project involves restoring an ageing hotel in Italy, she leaps at the chance to get away.

Managed by a crew of sextagenarians, the Grand Hotel del Monferrato needs all the love and care Louise can give it. But it’s hard to stay focused on the job when her thoughts keep straying to Vito, the reclusive and mysterious neighbour.

With his tragic past and her no-romance policy, Louise knows they can’t have a future. Yet something keeps pulling the two together…

I actually read my first Williams book way back in 2018 and I've enjoyed each and every one his subsequent books that I've had the chance to read.

The writing style is always simple yet meaningful.

This time round we are introduced to Louise. A woman, who after discovering her now ex cheating on her, gets the chance to fly to Italy to work (and perhaps play).

Romance is the last thing on her mind when she arrives. 

Work is her one and only focus.

That is until Vito!

The reclusive, mystery neighbour who also happens to be the previous owner of the hotel that she is in charge of renovating and rejuvenating.

Swoon.

What transpires is a beautiful, slow-building love story. One that is derived from friendship - the best kind in my opinion. But of course what is a romance novel without a bit of drama. 

What I adore is the fact that even the more emotional parts of the story are I guess gently done. There is no big explosion.

I guess you could say it is all quite mature.

And in case you were wondering, a happy ending is indeed provided. 

If I had to criticise, I'd say that I would have liked an epilogue as I wanted the romance to last for a few more pages.

An Escape to Remember is perfect escapism. If you're in need of a getaway but can't afford to jump on a plane right now, may I suggest you delve into this book instead.