Valentine Roncalli, a shoemaker and designer in her family's business, marries her leather tanner Gianluca, who is 20 years older, and the son of Valentine's grandmother's new husband. After their honeymoon, they return to their lives, but not all is bliss; Val is tied to New York, and Gianluca is bound to Italy. The story is typical Trigiani, but fans of the trilogy (
Very Valentine; Brava Valentine), who like their romantic endings happy, should be warned: this does not end as they would want. This will not deter most listeners, however. Reader Cassandra Campbell continues to give voice to the characters in the trilogy and does a credible job at subtle changes among the numerous characters.
VERDICT Purchase where Trigiani's works are popular. ["Val's eccentric family keeps the book going at a quick pace, distracting readers from Val's insecure baby steps toward marital bliss," read the review of the Harper hc, LJ 10/1/13.]
Comment Policy:
Comment should not be empty !!!