It Takes a Villa by Kilby Blades: When Natalie Malone bought the abandoned villa in Italy, she 
underestimated the work needed, but she knows that she can get it done. As she explores her new home, she realizes that some of it is beyond her knowledge. When she asks for help, she’s given Pietro’s name, but he immediately doesn’t think she has what it takes.
Pietro wants all of the homes to be successful, but he isn’t sure whether Natalie has what it takes to restore the mansion in 6 months. Somehow he keeps being drawn back to her, and he finds himself helping her learn the tasks necessary. As he spends more time with her, he finds that he likes the way Natalie approaches life and her tasks.
Natalie was dealing with a lot before coming to Italy, and this her last chance at what she wants. When she is dealt blows, she doesn’t let them keep her down. When she is dealt a major blow, she questions whether or not to go on. When her friends rally around her, she realizes that she has created a true family out of the program and wants to succeed.
Pietro is always torn between his family and his beliefs. When he has to choose between the two, he has to stand up for himself to change the mind of his father as well as the town. When he finally does so, everyone realizes that he actually knows what he is talking about. Now he just has to convince Natalie that he has her best interests at heart too.
I really liked the book until it ended, because I feel like the book abruptly ended. It left so many things open-ended, so it feels like it needs more at the end to justify the final pages. It technically is part of a series, but I feel like the next book won’t give much closure to Natalie and Pietro’s story as much as focus on another couple.
Book Info:
Publication: May 24, 2022 | Entangled: Amara | It Takes a Villa #1
For the reasonable price of $1, Natalie Malone just bought herself an abandoned villa on the Amalfi Coast. With a detailed spreadsheet and an ancient key, she’s arrived in Italy ready to renovate—and only six months to do it. Which seemed reasonable until architect Pietro Indelicato began critically watching her every move…
From the sweeping ocean views to the scent of the lemon trees, there’s nothing Pietro loves more than his hometown. And after seeing too many botched jobs and garish design choices, he’s done watching from the sidelines. As far as he’s concerned, Natalie should quit before the project drains her entire bank account and her ridiculously sunny optimism.
With Natalie determined to move forward, the gorgeous architect reluctantly agrees to pitch in, giving her a real chance to succeed. But when the fine print on Natalie’s contract is brought to light, she might have no choice but to leave her dream, and Pietro, behind.
