Inspired by the true events surrounding the destruction of the town, Iola, in the 1960’s, this story tells of hardship, loss, courage and resilience. Story begins on a small peach ranch in Iola, Colorado. The Gunnison River is damned, the town is flooded, and a reservoir built. Prior to this, Victoria, 17, encounters young Wilson Moon, by chance and falls for him. She gets pregnant and tragedy strikes. She isolates herself in a small hut in the mountains, where she struggles in the wilderness. Alone, she has the baby and gives him up to a young woman who, by chance is stopped in the woods with a newborn baby of her own. Character development superb and the writer is truly gifted. Example- “my insides were tumbling like pebbles in a stream.” She is able to describe the beautiful, harsh landscape so that you feel that you are there. A must read!

I read Tangerine, by the same author, a few years ago and thoroughly enjoyed it. However, I found The Continental Affair quite confusing. The story jumped back and forth for both of the main characters. The character development was good. They both appeared unhappy with some baggage. I had to go back and reread several times to remind me what was happening. I did enjoy the narrative about Paris. The description of food and drink was right on.

If you have ever visited Italy, you will love this book. The title is what made me select the book to read and review. Ginny, a radio advice expert, finds that her husband is not happy in their marriage. She had planned a special 25th Anniversary trip to Italy, with reservations in a fine hotel and since he opted out, she had to make alternate plans. Four of her listeners join her and they stay in an older establishment in Vigornuovo. These very diverse, memorable tourists end up developing special relationships as they were all experiencing difficult times in their lives. A heartwarming, delightful read.