Book Review: "Wish You Weren't Here" by Christy Schillig

Ava couldn’t be more of a type A person if she tried. Despite having an artist for a mother, Ava lives for schedules and plans. When her mother died, she decided to abandon her dreams of teaching and become a lawyer instead, like her father.

She’s already secured a job at a prestigious law firm, and the last thing she needs to do is go to Italy for her final law school credits. Before Ava was born, her mother spent time in Urbino, so that is where Ava is headed. Just before she heads to Italy, she believes her long-time boyfriend will propose, but she is shocked when he suggests they take a break instead.

James and Ava don’t quite have a meet-cute; it’s more like a meet-angry. James is an hour late to pick Ava up at the airport, and she figures that he’s just a hired driver. Imagine her surprise when she finds out he’s a talented photographer and art history professor—and she’s going to be the TA for his class.

They’re both immensely attracted to each other, but they always seem to make the other one angry just before something can happen. It doesn’t help matters that Ava is living in the guest house on his family’s property, and quickly becomes a part of the family.

James doesn’t have to work too hard to get Ava excited about the art and beauty of Urbino, and she is energized by what she finds out about her mother’s time there. But James also wants to get Ava to abandon her rigid adherence to schedules and enjoy life—and love, even if she’s going to be heading back to the U.S. to start her job.

This is a gorgeously romantic story. Yes, you can predict what will happen, but the incredible setting, the banter and chemistry between James and Ava, the memorable supporting characters, the emotions, and the steam all make it an incredible book to get lost in. I can’t believe this is a debut; it’s clear Christy Schillig has quite a career ahead of her!