Bellissima

Reviewed by Dianne Gray © 2006

Wild Child Publishing.com © 2006

Title: Bellissima
Author: Lili B. Adams
Publisher: Freya's Bower
Genre: Contemporary Romance/Chick Lit
ISBN: 1-934069-00-0
Release Date: June 2006
Author's Website: Lili B. Adams

Set amidst the romantic beauty of Italy, Bellissima is the story of two best friends on a journey of the heart. Amy and Claire have dreamed about visiting Italy for a long time. Neither of them expected Italy to change them irrevocably.

Amy is shy about getting involved with any man, and is still smarting from her last relationship. But her friend Claire has given her a challenge — throw off the shackles of her inhibitions, and have wanton no-strings affairs with sexy Italian men. Though the setting is perfect, and attractive men are seemingly everywhere, Amy doesn't see herself as the type of woman who can give herself over to passion. Can Amy go through with it and free a part of herself she never knew she had?

Claire, on the other hand, plans on living it up to the fullest. Free in her sexuality, Italy should be the perfect spot for a wild, uncommitted, passion-filled vacation. But her plans go awry when she finds herself irresistibly drawn to Ben Hunter, the American tourist who Claire is sure she doesn't even like. Despite her best intentions, Claire can't withstand her attraction to Ben, and finds herself continually in his arms. Claire was sure when the vacation started she wanted nothing but an unattached affair, but does she really want to say goodbye to Ben when the vacation is over?

Bellissima is a great read, taking you on the journey of two friends who are about as opposite as can be when it comes to their approach to men. Erotic, sweet and romantic, you get it all! The characters are likable and real, their foibles believable, and both stories give a satisfying conclusion for their heroines. Bellissima was definitely a pleasure to read!

Rating: 5 cats

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To find out more about how to purchase Bellissima, visit Freya's Bower.