Amy’s Picks and Pans, Issue 34

  Welcome back, book lovers! This month, I traveled through time, solved mysteries, and even peeked into other people’s lives—all from the comfort of my favorite reading nook. From gripping thrillers that kept me up past my bedtime to heartwarming children’s tales that brought a smile to my face, I covered a wide terrain. I dove into some Christian fiction that stirred my soul, wandered through the rich tapestries of historical settings, and pondered over profound literary works. Not all books hit the mark this month, but each brought a unique flavor to my ever-expanding library. So, whether you’re in the mood for a tale that tingles your spine, a […]

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A Family’s Past Unravels in the Heart of Italy

Dominic Smith’s Return to Valetto takes readers on an atmospheric journey through a nearly deserted Italian village, where ancient walls hold wartime secrets. Hugh Fisher, a grieving widower and historian, arrives in Valetto on sabbatical, intending to reconnect with his roots and study the fading town where he spent childhood summers. But his plans are upended when he discovers a “squatter” in his inherited cottage—Elisa Tomassi, a Milanese chef claiming Hugh’s grandfather, a resistance fighter in World War II, promised it to her family. Smith masterfully unfolds a multi-generational tale of love, betrayal, and resilience. As Hugh uncovers his family’s dark past and learns of Elisa’s own family’s sacrifices, he’s […]

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