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PINCH ME: Waking up in a 300-Year-Old Italian Farmhouse
by Barbara Boyle

PINCH ME: Waking up in a 300-Year-Old Italian Farmhouse by Barbara Boyle

“Richly evoked...The process of restoring the house makes for a satisfying read, in part because it fulfills the fantasy many readers have likely had and never acted on.”—Kirkus“

“With warmth and wit, Barbara Boyle whisks you to a rural village in Italy and envelops you in an unhurried world of ripe vineyards, fairytale castles, down-to-earth people, mouth-watering meals (recipes included) and the ancient, renovated farmhouse she calls home. Bellissimo!”—Terry Trucco, frequent contributor New York Times

For fans of Stanley Tucci & Frances Mayes, Boyle’s story of leaving her California home to restore an old stone farmhouse in Italy’s Piedmont—only to fall in love with the food and people of her enchanting new town—will delight and inspire. Pinch Me offers a fresh twist on Under the Tuscan Sun, recounting the journey of Barbara Boyle, a fifty-something woman who boldly leaves behind her bustling life in San Francisco. Drawn to the quiet beauty of Piedmont, Italy-a lesser-known gem-she embarks on the ambitious task of dismantling a centuries-old stone barn to create not just a home, but a new chapter of her life.

As Barbara immerses herself in the region's stunning landscapes and culinary treasures, she navigates the frustrations of adapting to a foreign culture and the devastating challenge of a breast cancer diagnosis. Yet, amid the struggles, she and her husband transform the crumbling barn into a vibrant home, forging meaningful friendships in their small town and discovering an unexpected depth of joy.

This memoir weaves together intimate reflections on Barbara's roles as a wife, stepmother, and community member, while celebrating the gastronomic wonders of Piedmont through cherished recipes. Brimming with food, friendship, and glimpses of Italy's charm, Pinch Me ultimately serves as a powerful testament to love, resilience, and the extraordinary joy of following one one's dreams.

About the author: Barbara Boyle served for decades as an award-winning global creative director and executive vice president at Saatchi & Saatchi, Grey, and Lowe Advertising, creating commercials, ads, and stories. She has lived in London, Paris, New York and San Francisco https://www.barbaraboyleauthor.com/