Have you ever seen an advertisement and felt it was speaking directly to you? That’s what happens to Lotty Wilkins and Rose Arbuthnot, two quiet, unfulfilled women in 1920s London. Tired of the rain and their mundane lives, they spot an ad for a small medieval castle in Italy, available to rent for April. To afford it, they recruit two strangers: the formidable, elderly Mrs. Fisher and the beautiful, disillusioned socialite Lady Caroline Dester. The four of them, with nothing in common but a desire to escape, set off for the Italian Riviera.

The Story

The plot is simple but powerful. It’s about what happens after they arrive at San Salvatore. The castle, overflowing with flowers and drenched in Mediterranean light, works a kind of magic. Away from their usual roles and routines, the women begin to soften and change. Grudges fade, guarded hearts open, and they start to see themselves—and each other—in a new light. The story follows their personal journeys as the beauty of the place coaxes out their hidden hopes and true personalities.

Why You Should Read It

This book is a masterclass in character. Von Arnim writes with such warmth and gentle humor that you feel you’re right there with them, smelling the lemon blossoms. It’s a celebration of second chances, not through dramatic action, but through quiet reflection and the healing power of a beautiful environment. It makes you believe that change is possible, and that joy can be found in simple, sensory pleasures.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who has ever dreamed of a fresh start or needs a literary vacation. If you love character-driven stories about friendship, personal growth, and the transformative power of place, you’ll be utterly charmed. It’s the ideal book to read in a garden, by a window, or whenever you need a dose of optimism and Italian sunshine.