Review: Fantastic
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 06 17, 2014
"Italian Summer" by Maria Grazia Swan was a complete surprise find for me. Mina Calvi is the protagonist of this gently understated detective series. Coming home to Italy after a decade of asence brings up a lot of conflicting emotions for our protagonist, whose life back in California was also not without its complications.I don't know if it was the sunshine in my garden when I read it, my own background as ex-patriot or just the wonderful athmospheric writing style, but I was right inside the moment with the author.Mina hooks up with Lola, a colourful character who tries to drag her along and into her life as drinking and gossip partner, but Mina is not convinced.Then an old flame returns to her life but Mina would not be Mina if she didn't ask questions that lead to further questions and soon she has her new personal investigation at her hands.An excellent blend of mood and charm, cross-cultural writing, fascinating characters and a good story line.An excellent book that makes me want to buy the rest of series.