This book is a fun little spy romp in Italy post-WWII. It’s quirky and comedic. Like a Roman Holiday-esque plot. And, the lush descriptions of the Italian countryside are to die for. The book follows a young couple as they relocate to Italy – one is a secret CIA agent, the other ends up being the better spy.

It’s cute and mysterious but I had higher hopes for Scottie – the lonely wife who goes off on her own adventure to find her missing Italian-language tutor. Her conclusion didn’t do her any justice. ( )

Whiffs of Roman Holiday (Audrey Hepburn romantic comedy) float throughout this book, and that's a good thing if you're looking for something quick and pleasant to read. What made this book more than just a nice little 3 star for me was the author's inspired decision to write in the 3rd person, and situate this voice inside the heads of the main characters, Scottie and Michael. The story alternates between their perspectives, not chapter by chapter, but in short sections within chapters, which kept the pacing lively. I am a curmudgeon when it comes to quirky, lively, pretty heroines (so trite) but Scottie managed to be just that, but in a genuine way that wasn't at all tiresome to me. The book started to feel a little over long towards the end - even though I was enjoying it, I was ready for it to end about 30 pages earlier. ( )

The Italian Party by Christina Lynch tumbles through newlywed couple Michael and Scottie getting to know each other and getting to know Italy in the Cold War era and perhaps most of all, acknowledge who they are themselves. Throughout the book, I am unsure if this is satirical comedy or a serious story. This applies to both the broader story and to Michael and Scotti's story. At the end, I am somewhat entertained but somewhat confused.

Read my complete review at http://www.memoriesfrombooks.com/2018/09/the-italian-party.html

Reviewed for NetGalley. ( )

This was such an emotionally charged story. I felt all the emotions while reading it. I loved this book from the start!
I highly recommend you read this. ( )

Great descriptions of Tuscan food and life and I learned about post World War II Italy as well. Edoardo Ballerini could read from a cereal box and I would be enraptured, so having him as the narrator was a huge bonus. ( )