What do readers think of The Little Italian Hotel by Phaedra Patrick? Write your own review.

I chose this book because I love Italy, especially the villages in Tuscany so I was eager to read something set in that area. However, I did not love the book. Although the characters were quite likeable, the descriptions of the hotel and surrounding areas was inviting, the storyline did not hold my interest. It is definitely a "rom com" story, reminded me of Maeve Binchy plots which can be a fun escape and this was similar, to a point. I found the plotline involving Ginny and her husband and their online profiles annoying. It made them seem childish and their issues were real adult issues.
It was a quick, light …more read so I would recommend it as a good beach read. (less)

I was excited to read Phaedra Patrick's new novel, The Little Italian Hotel after reading her last four. But I was soon disappointed with the new novel. The plot of Little Italian Hotel was trite with not much going on and it was very hard to stay interested or feel empathy for the characters we knew little about.

I expected to like this book more—an adventure in Italy is a great starting point. The story did not make me struggle with big ideas and issues, and it did not develop characters fully enough for me to really engage with them. They were all pleasant enough. The daily "plans" felt contrived but were convenient. The formulaic revelations and ostensible personal growth for characters did not evoke the sympathy or sense of triumph that a good story should evoke..

This is a fine "beach book" but will not make the list when friends ask for a really good read.