Member Reviews
I was sent a free review copy of this book and although I hadn't read anything by the author before, or the first book in this series, I dived straight in. I don't think you need to have read the first book before reading this, but I fell so in love with the enchanting descriptions of Rome and Italy that I'll certainly now be purchasing the first book to fully read how Kate and Alessandro met - which I think highlights how much I enjoyed this.
Overall, the book is well written, fully immerses you in the wonderful Italian culture and experience, and makes you fall in love with Alessandro too! This is a perfect read for summer (or any time of year) as you can read it by the pool to relax if you're going away or, if you're not on holiday, it'll certainly give you a few hours of feeling like you are!
This is a cute book. But the story felt unnecessary and pointless. The story was in a standstill for most of the book where nothing of importance happened. Kate wanted to make a good impression on Alessandro's family so bad but she didn't really do anything to achieve that for most of the book.
I didn't really care much for the characters so the whole thing felt too generic to me. I do believe it's a good summer read if you're just looking for fluff books.
This book follows on from 'Rome is Where the Heart is' and it is just as good if not better than the first book by Tilly Tennant. Ms Tennant has an amazing voice and the characters she creates are absolutely convincing as they go about their lives across the pages of the novel.
Kate is now making a life for herself in Rome while also building her relationship with Alessandro Conti and his family. Every day brings both joy and challenges as Kate tries to work out how to make things work in a country where the language is not her own and nothing comes easily. Money is a little tight and her own family seems worlds away but her love for Alessandro and Rome, itself, make it all seem worthwhile most of the time.
What is lovely about this book is that all the characters that we came to love in the first story are back in all their glory. Mama Conti is trying to adjust to her son dating and perhaps even marrying an English girl (and does she know that Kate is also divorced - not something that would make a Catholic mother happy?). Kate's two sisters are still involved in her life and making sure she is happy with her choice to live in Rome. Jamie is also very much a part of this new life Kate is making continuing to cause a little chaos when he visits. Alessandro's sisters are working out how Kate fits into their lives - some welcoming her with open arms while other's not so much.
There is a slightly darker atmosphere to this story as there are a number of secrets bubbling away under the surface. Not everyone wants Alessandro and Kate's romance to work and there is one person who will do anything to chase Kate out of Rome. Heartbreak is on the horizon for more than one character and plenty of sympathy is required as the story unfolds.
After reading Book 1, I couldn't wait to get started on this. I was keen to find out how Kate's life was going - I love it when a character stays in your mind even after you've finished reading.
As I settled back into the warm embrace of Rome I felt like I had never been away. The characters were familiar and the writing style was comforting. Kate on the other hand wasn't quite so comfortable, unfortunately her Italian dream wasn't exactly going to plan. Poor Kate faced one complicated situation after another and for a while it seemed as though everything was against her.
My reactions mirrored Kate's when Jamie got in touch, he was a favourite of mine from the first book so I was excited about his return. I'll simply say it was everything I had hoped for!
The author has a very natural way of holding your interest with her words and before you know it you're almost halfway through the story. Just one more page...
This was a fabulous follow-up book, warm and inviting with lots of drama. A perfect holiday read.
Having read (and enjoyed) the first book of this series, 'Rome is Where the Heart is', I was rather intrigued to see what would be in store for book number two (this one in case you didn't know ;) ). I had to leave my character reservations from the previous novel in the past, and begin the latest novel severely unbiased. It was hard!
Kate wanted to be with the man that she fell in love with on her holiday; should she stay or should she go? Well, just like the saying goes, 'if you can't beat them, join them'! In Kate's mind, her new life was going to be the romantic, stress free fresh start that she was desperately craving. In reality though? You'll need to find out for yourself and read the book!
Even though I tried to keep an open mind where the characters were concerned, I found myself getting rather irked with the same ones, especially Alessandro. I know a lot of readers loved him, BUT, I found his controlling nature extremely over powering. It bugged me, I'm not going to lie. Saying that, it was lovely to see Kate's personality blossom and her own individual confidence to start shining through.
I really did enjoy the punchy storyline and the dramatic feel to the entire novel. There was ALWAYS something going on for me to sink my teeth into, and I found myself constantly tapping my kindle screen to turn the pages as I was reading it that fast!
I have to say though, out of both of the books in the series so far, 'A Wedding in Italy' is my most favourite as it had a completely different vibe to it. For me, this book had more of a relaxed overall storyline, mixed in with more lifestyle drama and the gutsy friction; does that make sense? I'm all for a bit of girl power I must admit!
'A Wedding in Italy' made me go weak at the knees due to the beautifully written descriptions and character confidence. Kate really held her own in this storyline; it was wonderful to see her shine, it really was.
Tilly Tennant's novel made me laugh, angry, as well as making me feel extremely overjoyed at being on yet another FABULOUS, Tilly Tennant book journey. I thoroughly enjoyed going back to Italy and being part of a beautiful journey of self discovery and true love. Such a lovely, lovely book.
Thanks Bookouture.
A lovely story by Tilly Tennant. Her characters spring from the page and are the type that you wish you knew in real life. Set in beautiful Rome, this story is a feel good story about starting again.
I was SO thrilled there was another Tilly Tennant book out but almost passed out in excitement when I realised this was a follow up to 'Rome Is Where The Heart Is'. I dived right in and instantly fell in love all over again with the characters. Kate is now living the dream in Rome and her boyfriend Alessandro is there to support her all the way. However, it's pretty clear that things haven't quite gone as swimmingly as she had hoped and it isn't long before you start to see Kate's normally positive outlook start to diminish.
Kate was hoping that her dressmaking business would have taken off, however somehow she mas managed to get lumbered making dresses for her Landlords wife for less than she is meant to. On top of that she still hasn't grasped the Italian language enough, she has a hard time trying to please all of the family and to top it all off she now has worries about some of the non family female members that seem to spend a lot of time with Alessandro.
Although things aren't quite what she thought you cannot help but fall in love with Kate, she is so sunny and upbeat and there is an inate kindness about her. What adds to the story are Alessandro's family who all have their own ways but undoubtedly make the story line so much richer. Lucetta (Alessandro's sister) get's married which means not only does Kate get to experience an Italian family wedding first hand, but she gets to meet Alessandro's extended family too. We also in this latest story get to meet up with Jamie who was instrumental in book 1 and I was so pleased to see him back, albeit not for long!
This story was SO enjoyable because in true style Tilly takes you into the heart of the Conti family and you almost feel part of the furniture. Kate and Alessandro along with the family make for such a warm and inviting book that I hope we get to see them again as they are SO much fun.
I absolutely loved this novel. The seductive, sensual factor makes it refreshingly delightful to read. The Italy aspect makes it all the more romantic and the fact I have some Italian in myself, allowed to enjoy it further in depth.
It's a light , interesting and fascinating novel.
This book was thoroughly entertaining with never a dull moment. It was an amazing book and I would highly recommend this to everyone. It's sure to be pleasing to one and all. I would say it's a sensational and tantalising romance novel that's bound to have you hooked.
Happy reading.
Kate did it. She decided that she wanted to up stakes and actually make a new life for herself in Italy: partly because she felt excited by the challenge and partly for the new love in her life: Alessandro. With a new love, how difficult could it be? Well, far diferent from her vacation moments, the allure of Italy and Rome haven’t dampened her love of her new life, but there are plenty of worries to contend with.
The book opens with a traditional wedding, Alessandro’s sister Lucetta is to be married, the wild-child of the Conti sisters, Lucetta and her sister Abelie have befriended Kate, treat her as a person and someone deserving of the love of their brother. Unfortunately, while Mama Conti likes Kate, there is a remove there, one that Kate is desperate to overcome to be accepted into the family. Making that even more difficult is his sister Maria, who, taking the side of her best friend Orazia, has decided that Kate must go, and Orazia is the one for Alessandro. It doesn’t help Kate’s security in her new relationship that Orazia and Alessandro work together on the police force, and that truly, the Contis are the only people she knows: her limited skills (although growing) in Italian, and her inability to find a job beyond the few dresses she makes or alters isn’t going to pay the bills.
Overall, this book takes us through Kate’s efforts to make a home for herself in Rome, where she can support herself and make a new life with new people and friends. It’s her second chance, and one she takes seriously: she doesn’t want to go back to England and get “stuck’ in her memories, the close proximity to her ex and his new life: her determination to make something new of her life, unlike anything she imagined actually possible is her goal. And with a series of moments, trials and every one of her friends wiling to speak up for her when she should, but doesn’t has Kate growing up quickly and learning to fight for what she wants.
I devoured this book in hours: waiting to see how Kate would manage the wicked sister Maria and her friend Orazia, how she would finally pin her landlord Salvatore to the wall for some desperately needed repairs on her apartment, and if she could finally make her mark with her dressmaking, or if the trial as an estate agent with Shauna would draw her in other directions. With appearances from her sisters, her new friend Jamie and his partner, and the solid family feel in the Conti household as she works to convince everyone that she is different from their Uncle Marco’s ex-wife Michelle, the story doesn’t lack for dramas and moments. But, it’s as wonderfully complex in terms of characters, interactions and carries the same sense of hope and growth as the first: less of the lightness overall as the first, but a truly wonderful story that will keep you engaged and cheering Kate forward as she grabs her dreams one by one.
Take a chance and drop into the Italy that Tilly Tennant presents: full of life, laughter, atmosphere and love. Just don’t expect that you won’t want to adopt the phrase Non tutte le ciambelle riescono col buco (not all doughnuts come with holes) for it is true – life doesn’t bring what you expect, but you can enjoy (and learn to love) the new form!
I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility.
Review first appeared at <a href=”http://wp.me/p3OmRo-8WW/”> <a> I am, Indeed </a>
A delightful read with a beautiful setting. It has a good plot. My first book by this author and I really liked her writing style. Recommend this book.
This title is Book 2 in the From Italy With Love series, following on from Book 1: Rome is Where the Heart Is. I very much enjoyed the first in the series, and had high hopes for this new book. I certainly wasn't disappointed - the story was every bit as good and another triumph for Tilly Tennant. The storyline had me hooked from page one, and I finished the book in quick time.
It is always hard not to give any spoilers when dealing with a sequel, but I'll do my best. As in the first part, the story revolves around Kate, who is living the dream in Rome with her policeman boyfriend Alessandro. She is working hard to gain acceptance from his family, and at the same time trying to find some gainful employment. There are also other obstacles to overcome, and she misses her family at home in England, but she seems to remain happy despite all that.
It was really enjoyable watching as Kate built up a relationship with Alessandro's, at times, disapproving family. However, a close friend of the family is not at all easy to deal with, and is responsible for a sinister turn in the plot. Kate's desire to make a living from her talents as a seamstress is proving a difficult one to fulfil, but I felt a little disappointed in her decision to look elsewhere for employment rather than trying a little harder to get her dressmaking business off the ground.
As our thoughts turn to holidays at this time of year, I would heartily recommend this book as an addition to the suitcase or e-reader. It is an easy read, evoking lots of mental pictures of sunny Italy, its people and, of course, it's delicious cuisine.
If you enjoyed Rome Is Where the Heart is then you'll love Tilly Tennant's follow up book, A Wedding in Italy. Once again, we join Kate back in Italy. She's made the permanent move there and is still madly in love with Alessandro.
The book follows her trying to find a job, living in a small apartment with a cantankerous landlord and trying to fit in with Alessandro's family. Easier said than done when there is still a language barrier.
This book is a lovely read and I thoroughly enjoyed it. It was great to revisit the same old characters and get lost in the romance of Rome.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and Tilly Tennant for the chance to review.
This second book in the series was as good as the first. I laughed and cried through the whole thing.
I loved this book as much as the first one in the series.. A great feel-good book set in beautiful Italy. Tilly Tenant is one of my favourite Authors and this book definitely didn't disappoint.
I really enjoyed the prequel to this book and now as we further explore the pitfalls of trying to make a new life in a new country with a new boyfriend (and his family) whilst still dealing with all the baggage from your old life. I love the descriptive passages, I love Italy in general and Rome in particular and I enjoy it being brought to life. The characters are very well rounded and likable, with a few exceptions. I certainly wouldn't want an overprotective Italian mama bear as my mother in law.
I really enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend it to anyone.
Thanks Netgalley, What a great book, going to look for the other books about Kate and Allessandro. For me this was a holiday read (shame I was not on one)
4.5 Stars
What a delight it is to return to Rome, and the story of Kate and Alessandro, who we first met in Rome is Where The Heart Is, in fact I was so wrapped up in antics of the Conti family, that I completely forgot to work out if this book could potentially be read as a standalone or not. It certainly works fantastically as a sequel!
Kate is now living in Rome, and trying to make her life there, so that can be with Alessandro. She is hoping to get her dressmaking business off the ground and in the meantime, is trying to find a job so she can pay the bills. She is starting to get along better with almost all of the Conti clan, however its family friend, and potential love rival Orazia that is going to potentially put a spanner in the works.
As this book kicks off we are treated to what a full blown Italian wedding is like, as Alessandro's sister Lucetta is getting married, and Kate is about to meet more of the extended family, and is nervous. I loved hearing about the various Italian wedding customs and the whole celebration seemed fairly traditional but with a nod to modern day life too.
Instead of having a guided tour this time of all of Rome's famous tourist attractions, we are instead, treated to one girls story as to how to become accepted in a city that isn't her own, in a language she is only just learning to speak, and I loved seeing how Kate was adapting.
Kate's friend Jamie from the first book is back as well, and brings a great deal of light heartedness to the proceedings, and is a breath of fresh air generally. Kate's sisters are also a presence, mainly via skype, and it was good to catch up with them too.
I loved seeing this different side to Rome, and the new characters that we meet in this book, Salvatore and Nunzia especially amongst others.
A lot of the book for various reasons integral to the plot is set in the Conti household, and we really get a much better feel for all of the younger Conti children, and it was great to get this sort of understanding into Italian family life, complete with Signora Conti's massive meals on a regular basis. Even the Christmas traditional meals are touched on, which was interesting, although personally I am glad I've never spent Christmas in Italy as that sounded like far far far too much food!
I completely enjoyed every second of A Wedding In Italy, which was a pleasure to read, complete with its ups and downs, and overall felt like returning to my "italian family" in this book, as I feel as though I would love Alessandro's family to be my own!
there is nothing bad about this book, who doesn't love Italy wine and romance all in one package, and this is what you will get when you read this book.
In the first book of this series we meet Kate and Alessandro who fall in love when Kate goes on holiday to Rome. In this second instalment Kate has now moved to Rome to begin her life with Alessandro.
The story follows how Kate is coping with living in Rome, trying to navigate the language barrier, how she is trying to find work as well as trying to get her dressmaking business off the ground without being taken advantage of. We also see how Alessandro’s family react to Kate especially when they find out she is divorced, with most of his sisters liking her apart from his sister Maria who is opposed to Kate as she has romantic plans for Alessandro with her friend.
This was a lovely book and it was nice to see how everything panned out for Kate and Alessandro. A really nice read which I would recommend, I would also say that you should read the first book of the series to have an understanding of the plot and characters.
Kate lives in Rome, rents a flat, and she has a wonderful Italian boyfriend. However, she has many problems. Her landlord is troublesome; she hasn't got a job; and her boyfriend's old girlfriend and his sister want to make life difficult for her. How will she get through all this?
This was perfect light reading while in Italy with a beautiful Italian setting. Kate and Alessandro are like able and the setting is described charmingly. However, I found the writing rather wordy. Tighter editing may have helped.
I received this free ebook from Net Galley in return for an honest review.