Not as good as Under the Tuscan Sun. Bit of a struggle to get through

Frances Mayes is a good writer. She has a great sense of detail and the ability to transport you. Since she has undertaken the daunting task of purchasing and restoring an Italian farmhouse with 5 acres while residing for only a portion of the year in Italy, she certainly has a story to tell! Her primary focus is on the restoration, the food, the people and Tuscany (in more or less that order). I've resided in another country as well and reading about her experience aroused my admiration for her patience, endurance and relish for life in Italy. She wrote so lovingly about her adventures I found myself considering how to follow in her footsteps. But this is madness! A house in dire need of a makeover in a foreign country is not for me.

A sensuous book for a sensuous countryside. Enjoyable

I read this book ages ago, after seeing the movie of the same name! I just wanted more and this book delivered! I have wanted to visit Tuscany ever since.

can't really relate to owning a villa in tuscany, but it is good to dream right?

Can't finish reading. Too tedious for teenager or young adult. Only portray their Italy life in a really slow pace

Very descriptive with some fun recipes to try. Frances Mayes is a good writer and her books really give you the feel of being in Tuscany.

Frances Mayes is one of my favorite authors. As a English Professor for many years her writing is both intelligent and atmospheric to the area of Tuscany. The telling here of life in Tuscany will sweep you away to her world amid the culture, food and beauty of all things Tuscany.

Follow up book for Under the Tuscan Sun. Frances Mayes's love affair with Italy.

http://www.bookcrossing.com/journal/3...

I have made 2 attempts to read this over the last 9 years - the 2nd one today - & neither was successful. I'm not sure what's putting me off. Is it the tiny text or too much excruciating detail? Something is irritating me. I am unable to get past the first 50 pp. or so I'm giving it away. I've lost interest in other people's new-home-new-country memoirs, anyway.

Another Mayes worth the read. A great follow up to the Tuscan Sun

Love her elaborate language. Feels like sitting with her on the terrace.