When Love Gives You Lemons: A Sweet Slice of Life and Romance
From the moment I stumbled upon When Love Gives You Lemons by Steven Salvatore, I knew I was in for something special. As a fan of heartfelt stories and vibrant settings, the premise of Fielder Lemon’s journey to reclaim love immediately caught my attention. Having enjoyed Salvatore’s previous work, I was eager to delve into this tale of longing, heartbreak, and growth. Thanks to Bloomsbury and NetGalley for providing this eARC; I’m excited to share my thoughts!
At the heart of this novel is Fielder Lemon, whose heart was shattered by his best friend and first love, Ricky. The story unfolds as Fielder, after spending more than a year working on himself and building a following on the Clock app, unexpectedly finds himself at a family wedding in Italy—where Ricky’s sister is tying the knot. The setting alone—a romantic Italian village, the stunning coast, and the magical Blue Grotto—creates a luscious backdrop for this heartfelt exploration of love. Honestly, it was like a postcard come to life, and I could almost hear the waves crashing and smell the Italian cuisine!
Fielder’s determination to win Ricky back is relatable and poignant. Both boys are grappling with their feelings, fears, and a confusing love triangle that pulls them in different directions. As they reconnect, the tension and chemistry between them are palpable, making me root for their reunion while simultaneously feeling their ache and vulnerability. The way they navigate their past hurts, and the present complexities is beautifully rendered.
Salvatore’s writing style shines in this novel. The pacing balances heartfelt moments with light-hearted humor, particularly thanks to Fielder’s larger-than-life family members. Characters like Benny provide comic relief, while the dynamic between Fielder, Ricky, and their families layers the story with warmth and familiarity. The humorous, no-nonsense familial interactions are a delight, reminiscent of the way families sometimes suffocate yet support one another.
One of my favorite lines speaks to the book’s essence: “Sometimes love is a lemon—sour at first—but with the right sweetness, it can turn into something beautiful.” This resonated with me deeply, capturing the bittersweet nature of relationships and the resilience it takes to nurture them.
Ultimately, When Love Gives You Lemons is not just about Fielder and Ricky; it’s about growth, healing, and the messy sweetness of love. Readers will be enchanted by the captivating Italian setting and the authentic portrayals of familial bonds and friendships.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys contemporary romance filled with humor, heart, and unforgettable characters. It’s a perfect read for those who believe in the power of love’s second chances, and I guarantee you’ll be left with a smile and perhaps a craving for some fresh lemon sorbet! This story not only reminded me of the joys of young love but also the complexities of healing—making it a delightful addition to my shelf.
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