Sun Stars and Limoncello by Stefania Hartley
Sonia believes that men equal heartache and disaster. Brad has sworn never to love a woman again. It’s a pity they’re so irresistibly attracted to one another.
After her traumatic teenage years, Sonia’s teaching job would be the best thing that has happened to her if it weren’t for Brad Wilson. Her arrogant, standoffish colleague never fails to rub her the wrong way. But when she’s faced with the choice between canceling the school trip to Sicily or accepting his ungraceful help, she swallows her pride and resigns herself to spending an entire week in close quarters with him. Little does she know just how close.
A tragedy from his past still haunts Brad, and he’s sworn never to let his heart be shredded by grief again. Loving another woman is not in the cards. That’s why his petite olive-skinned colleague is so very dangerous.
What could possibly go wrong when their mutual destination is one of the most romantic places in the world?
My Thoughts
I was immediately drawn to this book with the pretty cover and interesting description which promises a trip to the beautiful island of Sicily.
Teacher Sonia is upset when her colleague breaks her leg leaving a school trip under threat. When biology teacher Brad Wilson volunteers to step in, Sonia has no choice but to accept his lukewarm offer.
Both teachers have come to the profession after experiences in their past left them wanting to make a difference. They have both put up barriers to any type of relationship but the chemistry between them is hard to ignore. Their feelings were put to the test when a booking mishap comes to light and the colleagues end up sharing a room.
Sonia originates from Italy but the country leaves her with bittersweet memories. However, she has a bunch of unruly teenagers to supervise and a promise to keep from one of her student’s parents. I loved the relationships between teenagers and teachers, the mutual respect and affection was incredibly refreshing. The amusing antics of the children provided a clever contrast to the sadder elements of the story.
 The writing flows well and the suspense builds to a dramatic and incredibly heartfelt conclusion. The beautiful portrayal of the location shows that the author knows and loves Sicily and the historical facts, culture, and crafts of the country are both informative and interesting.
A must for true romantics.
Thank you to the author for a copy of the book, which I have reviewed honestly.
About The Author
Also known as The Sicilian Mama, Stefania was born in Sicily and immediately started growing, but not very much.
She left her sunny island after falling head over heels in love with an Englishman and now she lives in the UK with him and their three children.
Having finally learnt English, she’s enjoying it so much that she now writes short stories and romance novels.
Her short stories have been longlisted, commended and won prizes, and are regularly published by The People’s Friend magazine. Her debut novel, Sun, Stars and Limoncello, is out now.
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