Title: Dante’s Gift (A Chicago Christmas #1)
Author: Aubrey Wynne
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Holiday Romance
Book Blurb:
Kathleen James has put her practical side away for once and looks forward to the perfect romantic evening: an intimate dinner with the man of her dreams—and an engagement ring. She is not prepared to hear that he wants to bring his grandmother back from Italy to live with him.
Dominic Lawrence has planned this marriage proposal for six months. Nothing can go wrong—until his Nonna calls. Now he must interrupt the tenderest night of Katie’s life with the news that another woman will be under their roof.
When Antonia’s sister dies, she finds herself longing to be back in the states. An Italian wartime bride from the ‘40s, she knows how precious love can be. Can her own story of an American soldier and a very special collie once again bring two hearts together at Christmas?
My Review:
A modern romance with flair. The love story of Dom and Katie is one that can relate to so many couples working their way to and through love in this tumultuous 21st century. The wonderful story of love from World War II just makes this book doubly enjoyable. In the end love is there but it requires courage.
The setting of this book is sweeping. An author often can write well about what they know and the detailed descriptions of Chicago and Italy take the reader on a trip to those places. The incredible details of the food served both in restaurants and at home brings the book alive and makes a reader hungry. It has been said in some circles that such detail is unnecessary but this book ends that debate. Detailed Food descriptions make a book realistic and enjoyable.
There were a number of times I laughed out loud, awwed out loud and had tears in my eyes. Brilliantly written, touching and a page turner that is hard to put down.
A fantastic book that is truly an American Romantic classic and one that will appeal to every reader. Another brilliant work by a brilliant author.
My Rating: 5+ stars
Buy it now:
Audio on iTunes https://itunes.apple.com/us/audiobook/dantes-gift-a-chicago-christmas-book-1-unabridged/id1317945016
Author Biography:
Bestselling and award-winning author Aubrey Wynne resides in the Midwest with her husband, dogs, horses, mule and barn cats. She is an elementary teacher by trade, champion of children and animals by conscience, and author by night. Obsessions include history, travel, trail riding, and all things Christmas.
Her short stories Merry Christmas, Henry and Pete's Mighty Purty Privies won the Preditors & Editors Reader's Choice in 2013 and 2014. Dante's Gift, first in A Chicago Christmas series, received the 2016 Golden Quill, Aspen Gold, and Heart of Excellence awards.
Her upcoming series "A Vintage Romance" was inspired by tales of her stepfather, who served in the British Air Force in WWII. Wynne's medieval fantasy series "Medieval Encounters" begins with Rolf's Quest, 2016 NTRWA Great Expectations winner. The Wicked Earls’ Club will continue with a Regency Christmas in 2018.
Social Media Links:
Facebook: http://www/facebook.com/magnificentvalor
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/Aubreywynne51
Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/aubreywynne51
Website: http://www.aubreywynneauthor.com/
Reviewed by: Mr. N