Love Your Life by Sophie Kinsella

A special thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Ava is a true romantic who doesn't think that love can be found using apps or algorithms. So after a recent breakup and dating app fiasco, she decides it is time to shelf her love life and pursue other opportunities. She's always wanted to write a novel and a writers' retreat in a picturesque coastal Italy is the perfect place to do so. But she will miss her friends and beloved dog, Harold.

At the retreat, you are not allowed to use your real name or reveal anything about yourself. So Ava, now "Aria," meets "Dutch" when he joins the writing retreat after his martial arts one is cancelled. The two are smitten, getting swept away by their romantic setting. But then reality sets in when they have to ditch Aria and Dutch for Ava and Matt.

With their fantasy whirlwind affair fading into the London fog, they soon realize just how different they are. Not only can they not agree on anything, but Matt also has a clingy ex-girlfriend. Can they reconcile their differences or were they only a holiday fling?

Overall, I enjoyed this book. Love Your Life is endearing and funny, the perfect feel-good romance. I loved the premise and the location—is Italy not perfect for a holiday romance?

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But the part is the supporting cast. Although there are a lot of characters, the two friend groups are what make this story. Especially Ava's friends as they usher her through her growth and empowerment. And we can't forget Harold...how can you not love a naughty dog?

My only criticism is that the book was a bit too long. It started to lag a bit when Ava and Matt got back to England and the ending was rushed. I thought that it should have been the reverse where more time was spent in Italy so that the romance would've been more believable. 

If you are looking for an adorable rom-com, look no further. Thank you, Sophie, for another gem!  I adore your writing and your wit.

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SOPHIE KINSELLA is the author of the bestselling Shopaholic series as well as the standalone novels Can You Keep a Secret?, The Undomestic Goddess, Remember Me?, Twenties Girl, I’ve Got Your Number, Wedding Night, My Not So Perfect Life, Surprise Me and I Owe You One.

She lives between London and the country.