Living in the Italian countryside sounds like a dream. But for author, producer, stylist, and entrepreneur @annettejosephstyle, it’s a beautiful reality. Six years ago, Annette purchased and lovingly restored an ancient stone fortress just outside of Fivizzano, which boasts picturesque views of the marble topped Apuan Alps. And though Hollywood has certainly romanticized taking on a task under the bright rays of the Tuscan sun—it’s not for the faint of heart. Anything that could go wrong, did, but Annette was left unphased every step of the way. Now, the fortress is dreamy. Impeccable design and the slow pace of the Italian countryside, what more could you ask for? Never one to rest on her laurels, Annette isn't slowing down just yet. This fall, she debuts a first-of-its-kind cookbook, #AttheTableofLaFortezza, focusing on the unique foods of the Lunigiana, and debuting a new ceramics collection with @etu.home. While starting a new life in Italy isn't in the cards for all of us, these new additions will allow us to bring a bit of la dolce vita into our homes. See more in the fall issue of Rue, on newsstands now. (Also available to read digitally via @pressreader! Link in bio.) Photos by @infraordinario and @davidloftus