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Bella Toscana
An explosive yearning that can't be denied
Disturbing visions from an ancient past
A mysterious stranger that somehow feels familiar
On the night of her fiftieth birthday, the comfortable ride of Toscana's life takes an alarming plunge. Haunted by seductive visions, she tries to push aside the desire and focus on the husband who adores her. Then she falls for Flynn, a younger man with an eye for adventure and a heart full of romance, who leaves her doubting everything she's believed about love and passion.
In Atlanta, Rome, and the lush scenery of Tuscany, Toscana searches for answers to the mysteries of her life while she faces her biggest question. If she listens to her feelings will she lose everything she holds dear, or does her heart hold the key to love and joy?
Disturbing visions from an ancient past
A mysterious stranger that somehow feels familiar
On the night of her fiftieth birthday, the comfortable ride of Toscana's life takes an alarming plunge. Haunted by seductive visions, she tries to push aside the desire and focus on the husband who adores her. Then she falls for Flynn, a younger man with an eye for adventure and a heart full of romance, who leaves her doubting everything she's believed about love and passion.
In Atlanta, Rome, and the lush scenery of Tuscany, Toscana searches for answers to the mysteries of her life while she faces her biggest question. If she listens to her feelings will she lose everything she holds dear, or does her heart hold the key to love and joy?
- GenresRomance
380 pages, Paperback
First published November 4, 2018
About the author
Nanette Littlestone
14 books153 followersNanette Littlestone’s emotional stories take the reader on a journey of the heart. An award-winning novelist and gourmet, Nanette believes in happily ever after. Her pragmatic side realizes that most people don’t live fairy tale lives, so her stories explore the struggles we face, the plans that backfire, the heart-wrenching decisions we have to make, plus the joy, the delight, the happiness when we courageously embrace our dreams. It’s all about the love, and good food. She's the author of the historical novel “The Sacred Flame” (set in ancient Rome), the contemporary sequel “Bella Toscana,” the underwater YA fantasy "The Heart of Everything," and the first two books in the Irish romance series "For the Love of Brigid" and "Sweet Dreams by Claire." She lives in Atlanta, GA but still calls California home, loves making origami butterflies, and watching romantic movies that make her cry. Her favorite quote: “Flattery will get you nowhere. Chocolate, everywhere.”
Be sure to follow Nanette on BookBub for the latest news and book recommendations: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/nanet...
Be sure to follow Nanette on BookBub for the latest news and book recommendations: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/nanet...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
April 1, 2026
Bella Toscana is basically a midlife awakening wrapped in chocolate, ancient temples, and the kind of Italian scenery that makes you want to fling your responsibilities into the nearest fountain and start over. Toscana Blake has spent fifty years being sensible, practical, and “fine.” Fine husband. Fine marriage. Fine life. And you know what fine really means — beige. Wallpaper. Lukewarm tea.
Then she goes to Italy, and the universe says, “Sweetheart, absolutely not. We’re doing magic now.”
The moment she steps into Rome’s chocolate festival, the book shifts. Suddenly, she’s having visions at the Temple of Vesta, bumping into Flynn Harris — a younger, charming history professor who feels suspiciously familiar — and realising that maybe her soul has been tapping its foot impatiently for years waiting for her to catch up.
Flynn is that perfect blend of intellectual, gentle, and emotionally available in a way Toscana has never experienced. He doesn’t bulldoze her life; he opens doors she didn’t know existed. Their connection is slow, warm, and threaded with this delicious sense of destiny without ever tipping into melodrama. It’s romantic in that “I didn’t know I was starving until someone handed me a feast” way.
The book shines brightest when it leans into Toscana’s emotional journey — the tug‑of‑war between duty and desire, comfort and passion, the life she built and the life she could have. Watching a woman in her fifties rediscover her heart, her courage, and her sense of possibility is honestly the best part of the whole story.
The pacing wanders here and there, and sometimes the mystical elements drift a little airy‑fairy, but the atmosphere is so lush — Rome, Tuscany, chocolate, history, longing — that you forgive it. This is a book meant to be savoured, not rushed.
A tender, romantic, soul‑searching 4‑star read that feels like stepping into sunlight after years indoors. Perfect for anyone who loves second chances, Italian magic, and the reminder that it’s never too late to choose a life that actually feels alive.
Then she goes to Italy, and the universe says, “Sweetheart, absolutely not. We’re doing magic now.”
The moment she steps into Rome’s chocolate festival, the book shifts. Suddenly, she’s having visions at the Temple of Vesta, bumping into Flynn Harris — a younger, charming history professor who feels suspiciously familiar — and realising that maybe her soul has been tapping its foot impatiently for years waiting for her to catch up.
Flynn is that perfect blend of intellectual, gentle, and emotionally available in a way Toscana has never experienced. He doesn’t bulldoze her life; he opens doors she didn’t know existed. Their connection is slow, warm, and threaded with this delicious sense of destiny without ever tipping into melodrama. It’s romantic in that “I didn’t know I was starving until someone handed me a feast” way.
The book shines brightest when it leans into Toscana’s emotional journey — the tug‑of‑war between duty and desire, comfort and passion, the life she built and the life she could have. Watching a woman in her fifties rediscover her heart, her courage, and her sense of possibility is honestly the best part of the whole story.
The pacing wanders here and there, and sometimes the mystical elements drift a little airy‑fairy, but the atmosphere is so lush — Rome, Tuscany, chocolate, history, longing — that you forgive it. This is a book meant to be savoured, not rushed.
A tender, romantic, soul‑searching 4‑star read that feels like stepping into sunlight after years indoors. Perfect for anyone who loves second chances, Italian magic, and the reminder that it’s never too late to choose a life that actually feels alive.
January 6, 2019
Read this book if you believe in the eternity of the soul and power of love
Read this book if you love the flow of the words beating to the strange rhythm of the era past
Read this book if you believe in the past lives and strength of the soul
Read this book if your mind is open to the ancient mysteries of this earth
Read this book if you want your heart to move to the dance of nature
Read this book if you believe in soul mates...
Toscana, on the night of her 50th birthday had a vivid dream of being with her one true love. A trip to Italy for the Chocolate Festival without her husband and a chance meeting with history professor Flynn had her discovering herself and the one for whom her heart beat in the past life and the present.
A beautifully written story by Nanette Littlestone had me dreaming about the landscapes of Rome and Tuscany and all the ancient culture and architecture. It was a wonderful journey which had me thinking about my own life. The past memories had a smooth resonance in the present, connected to discoveries of the ancient life.
Nanette's style of writing had the maturity and strength which made the prose almost like a lyrical poetry. I liked the way she conveyed the painful emotions which tugged the main character in different directions. I could feel her intimate thoughts deep in me. I understood her. Flynn was an awesome human being who stood by her with his love.
There was something which niggled me, I wanted Toscana to be more than what she was; even after finding her inner self and dealing with all the battles thrown at her, she didn't reach for the stars. I kept egging her from the shadows to find her destiny. My words didn't reach her ears.
I believe in past lives and reincarnation and the energy of the soul, and hence this book touched me way more than a love story.
Read this book if you love the flow of the words beating to the strange rhythm of the era past
Read this book if you believe in the past lives and strength of the soul
Read this book if your mind is open to the ancient mysteries of this earth
Read this book if you want your heart to move to the dance of nature
Read this book if you believe in soul mates...
Toscana, on the night of her 50th birthday had a vivid dream of being with her one true love. A trip to Italy for the Chocolate Festival without her husband and a chance meeting with history professor Flynn had her discovering herself and the one for whom her heart beat in the past life and the present.
A beautifully written story by Nanette Littlestone had me dreaming about the landscapes of Rome and Tuscany and all the ancient culture and architecture. It was a wonderful journey which had me thinking about my own life. The past memories had a smooth resonance in the present, connected to discoveries of the ancient life.
Nanette's style of writing had the maturity and strength which made the prose almost like a lyrical poetry. I liked the way she conveyed the painful emotions which tugged the main character in different directions. I could feel her intimate thoughts deep in me. I understood her. Flynn was an awesome human being who stood by her with his love.
There was something which niggled me, I wanted Toscana to be more than what she was; even after finding her inner self and dealing with all the battles thrown at her, she didn't reach for the stars. I kept egging her from the shadows to find her destiny. My words didn't reach her ears.
I believe in past lives and reincarnation and the energy of the soul, and hence this book touched me way more than a love story.
June 1, 2019
Set against the backdrop of Italy, the novel follows the life of Toscana Blake, who embarks on a whirlwind journey soon after celebrating her fiftieth birthday.
Toscana is a baker and owns a store called Dolcielo. Her recipes are culled from her Italian roots, and her Dolcielo brownies are a hit. She’s also hoping to expand her business. Toscana and her husband, Jackson have been planning to visit Italy. Toscana is looking forward to the Chocolate Festival in Rome; she’s made her famous brownies to take with her so she can attract prospective buyers and get an Italian vendor to sell her brownies there as well.
She wants her husband to help her talk to vendors using his business expertise. Furthermore, she wants to introduce Jackson to her family in Tuscany and show him her mother’s home. Toscana is enthusiastic about her trip and can barely wait.
But a few days before they are due to leave, Jackson calls to tell her that he can’t go to Italy with her because he has work emergency. Besides, it’s too late to cancel the trip so she has to travel alone.
In Italy, we follow Toscana as she navigates the fascinating ruins of Rome and the smooth terrains of Tuscany. There she meets a man named Flynn, a history professor who’s into antiquities and mosaics and seems to know a lot about ancient culture. Flynn offers to show her around Rome and even helps give insight into the strange experiences she’s been having since arriving in Rome.
Soon after, Toscana starts to feel a connection to him which excites and terrifies her at the same time. She begins to question her life, her feelings and wonders if she’s really on the right path.
This was good. This was so so good. This was a breath of fresh air. I inhaled it. Bella Toscana is a beautifully written book about self-discovery, filled with interesting characters and a nice sense of place. The book is peppered with a rich evocation of Italian countryside not to mention the mouthwatering descriptions of chocolate and brownies and all things nice. The food in this book will make you hungry for some good Italian home cooking & baking. And the prose flows smoothly from beginning to end like melted chocolate and caramel swirled together.
I couldn’t recommend Bella Toscana highly enough.
My favorite quote:
“…life is like bread. If you put nothing in it, it will be plain and simple. Something to get you by, but nothing to excite you. If you fill it with nuts and fruit and spices—the treasures of life—it will warm and nourish you with love and hope, and that is what you need for a life full of riches.”
Many thanks to NetGalley, Nanette Littlestone, and the publisher for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Toscana is a baker and owns a store called Dolcielo. Her recipes are culled from her Italian roots, and her Dolcielo brownies are a hit. She’s also hoping to expand her business. Toscana and her husband, Jackson have been planning to visit Italy. Toscana is looking forward to the Chocolate Festival in Rome; she’s made her famous brownies to take with her so she can attract prospective buyers and get an Italian vendor to sell her brownies there as well.
She wants her husband to help her talk to vendors using his business expertise. Furthermore, she wants to introduce Jackson to her family in Tuscany and show him her mother’s home. Toscana is enthusiastic about her trip and can barely wait.
But a few days before they are due to leave, Jackson calls to tell her that he can’t go to Italy with her because he has work emergency. Besides, it’s too late to cancel the trip so she has to travel alone.
In Italy, we follow Toscana as she navigates the fascinating ruins of Rome and the smooth terrains of Tuscany. There she meets a man named Flynn, a history professor who’s into antiquities and mosaics and seems to know a lot about ancient culture. Flynn offers to show her around Rome and even helps give insight into the strange experiences she’s been having since arriving in Rome.
Soon after, Toscana starts to feel a connection to him which excites and terrifies her at the same time. She begins to question her life, her feelings and wonders if she’s really on the right path.
This was good. This was so so good. This was a breath of fresh air. I inhaled it. Bella Toscana is a beautifully written book about self-discovery, filled with interesting characters and a nice sense of place. The book is peppered with a rich evocation of Italian countryside not to mention the mouthwatering descriptions of chocolate and brownies and all things nice. The food in this book will make you hungry for some good Italian home cooking & baking. And the prose flows smoothly from beginning to end like melted chocolate and caramel swirled together.
I couldn’t recommend Bella Toscana highly enough.
My favorite quote:
“…life is like bread. If you put nothing in it, it will be plain and simple. Something to get you by, but nothing to excite you. If you fill it with nuts and fruit and spices—the treasures of life—it will warm and nourish you with love and hope, and that is what you need for a life full of riches.”
Many thanks to NetGalley, Nanette Littlestone, and the publisher for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
June 14, 2019
4.5*
Toscana Blake has an organised, if not perfect, life. She’s content in her marriage to Jackson. Acknowledging the fact it may not be a passionate union, Toscana feels a deep affection for her husband and appreciates the life they have. The only stumbling block is the future of Dolcielo, her bakery business. Much is riding on her visit to the Chocolate Festival in Rome and whether it can open doors for her and her delicious sounding chocolate brownies. Regardless of that, she’s looking forward to seeing her much loved aunt and uncle.
Before the trip though, she and Jackson celebrate her fiftieth birthday at a favourite Italian restaurant. That night Toscana has a disturbing and vivid dream of an unknown lover. Then at the last moment Jackson is unable to make the trip to Rome due to work related issues, so after some deliberation and urging from Jackson and her best friend, Toscana decides to go alone.
While wandering through the streets, after checking into her hotel and having a restorative nap, Toscana stops to look at the ruins of the Temple of Vesta. It’s there that the visions start in earnest.
A chance meeting sets Toscana on a path of discovery. Her ordered life is thrown into chaos and uncertainty. Toscana’s struggle between following her head or heart was realistically portrayed—it’s a choice between staying with the familiar and comfortable or taking a leap of faith into the unknown.
The fascinating historical details and wonderful descriptions of a past and present Rome (not to mention the food—lots of it!) conjure vivid imagery and a strong sense of culture and place, added to by the picturesque representation of the Italian countryside. I enjoyed the themes of reincarnation and spirituality and how they were the foundation and heart of the story. The past life flashbacks and present were woven together as Toscana finds herself on an unexpectedly challenging journey, one of serious consideration, possibilities and potential.
I didn’t realise until after I’d read it that this is a sequel, but it can easily be read as a stand alone.
I chose to read and review Bella Toscana for Rosie Amber’s book review team, based on a digital copy kindly supplied the author.
Toscana Blake has an organised, if not perfect, life. She’s content in her marriage to Jackson. Acknowledging the fact it may not be a passionate union, Toscana feels a deep affection for her husband and appreciates the life they have. The only stumbling block is the future of Dolcielo, her bakery business. Much is riding on her visit to the Chocolate Festival in Rome and whether it can open doors for her and her delicious sounding chocolate brownies. Regardless of that, she’s looking forward to seeing her much loved aunt and uncle.
Before the trip though, she and Jackson celebrate her fiftieth birthday at a favourite Italian restaurant. That night Toscana has a disturbing and vivid dream of an unknown lover. Then at the last moment Jackson is unable to make the trip to Rome due to work related issues, so after some deliberation and urging from Jackson and her best friend, Toscana decides to go alone.
While wandering through the streets, after checking into her hotel and having a restorative nap, Toscana stops to look at the ruins of the Temple of Vesta. It’s there that the visions start in earnest.
A chance meeting sets Toscana on a path of discovery. Her ordered life is thrown into chaos and uncertainty. Toscana’s struggle between following her head or heart was realistically portrayed—it’s a choice between staying with the familiar and comfortable or taking a leap of faith into the unknown.
The fascinating historical details and wonderful descriptions of a past and present Rome (not to mention the food—lots of it!) conjure vivid imagery and a strong sense of culture and place, added to by the picturesque representation of the Italian countryside. I enjoyed the themes of reincarnation and spirituality and how they were the foundation and heart of the story. The past life flashbacks and present were woven together as Toscana finds herself on an unexpectedly challenging journey, one of serious consideration, possibilities and potential.
I didn’t realise until after I’d read it that this is a sequel, but it can easily be read as a stand alone.
I chose to read and review Bella Toscana for Rosie Amber’s book review team, based on a digital copy kindly supplied the author.
February 16, 2020
I have a huge soft spot for Italy, especially the Tuscany region, and when this book was mentioned in a FB group, I immediately grabbed a copy though I've not read any previous work by the author. I don't do plot summaries--you can read the description for that.
Ms. Littlestone didn't disappoint. She's created a beautiful story of self-discovery in a contemporary setting, but rich with details of ancient Italy, stunning landscapes, and the cuisine and culture of an amazing country and its people. Toscana's journey is one many can relate to--holding back on our personal dreams and setting aside our passions for those we love deeply, and finding the passion missing in her life. She loves to bake with chocolate and her specialty is brownies. Although this is her passion and she's happily married, there's something missing from her life...something she's failed to acknowledge in the pursuit of pleasing others.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Toscana is a well-defined, relatable character, and the choices she faces true to the modern world. Ms. Littlestone added a pinch of the paranormal to the story which gave a wonderful flare and added a different dimension to Toscana's character. The stunning descriptions of Rome and the Italian and Tuscan countrysides, the delightful local cuisine, and the Italian culture and its people brought this book to life full-circle and I didn't want it to end.
I learned a lot about Italy I didn't know, but the author wove details of ancient Italy, customs, food, and culture in such a way I was totally immersed in the story from beginning to end. And then there's chocolate...all the luscious ways bakers and chocolatiers use the different kinds was a bonus and I found my mouth watering many times. There's a spiritual awareness that takes place and it was interesting to learn something about that as well.
The love story is as warm and inspiring as the setting. I'm looking forward to more from this author.
Ms. Littlestone didn't disappoint. She's created a beautiful story of self-discovery in a contemporary setting, but rich with details of ancient Italy, stunning landscapes, and the cuisine and culture of an amazing country and its people. Toscana's journey is one many can relate to--holding back on our personal dreams and setting aside our passions for those we love deeply, and finding the passion missing in her life. She loves to bake with chocolate and her specialty is brownies. Although this is her passion and she's happily married, there's something missing from her life...something she's failed to acknowledge in the pursuit of pleasing others.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. Toscana is a well-defined, relatable character, and the choices she faces true to the modern world. Ms. Littlestone added a pinch of the paranormal to the story which gave a wonderful flare and added a different dimension to Toscana's character. The stunning descriptions of Rome and the Italian and Tuscan countrysides, the delightful local cuisine, and the Italian culture and its people brought this book to life full-circle and I didn't want it to end.
I learned a lot about Italy I didn't know, but the author wove details of ancient Italy, customs, food, and culture in such a way I was totally immersed in the story from beginning to end. And then there's chocolate...all the luscious ways bakers and chocolatiers use the different kinds was a bonus and I found my mouth watering many times. There's a spiritual awareness that takes place and it was interesting to learn something about that as well.
The love story is as warm and inspiring as the setting. I'm looking forward to more from this author.
April 24, 2019
This was a very interesting novel about following your heart. It gave me a great glimpse into beautiful Italy, the world of chocolate (yum!), and a woman (Toscana) who searches for answers to the surprising dreams she has and stumbles upon a love she never expected.
February 14, 2019
Bella Toscana is a fabulous read. I was quite surprised at how great this book was. It has everything I love in a story: beautiful setting, adventure, and love. I was not sure how it would all end until the last page. It is not one I found to be predictable.
I am giving Bella Toscana a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it. It should not be one to be missed. I look forward to more by this author in the future.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I am giving Bella Toscana a very well deserved five plus stars. I highly recommend it. It should not be one to be missed. I look forward to more by this author in the future.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
July 27, 2019
A well written book about an American woman with Italian roots who makes brownies and owns her own shop / company "Dolcielo".
She visits a chocolate fair in Rome to try to expand her business interests to Europe . Once she has arrived in Rome she gets visions about a Vestal Virgin and she meets an American history professor.
I liked the setting in Rome and Tuscany in particular around Cortona (is it really a coincidence that the book is called Bella Toscana or is it a reference to Francis Mayes Bella Tuscany?). Although I have to say that I sometimes found the references a bit cliché. But on the positive side, the Italian phrases that were used were all correct, something I can't say about all the books written by non Italians that I have read.
I think the book is well written and the author did a good job but it's just not the kind of novel that I like and all the references to chocolate and other sweets got on my nerves at times. I guess that I expected another kind of story. I requested the book from Netgalley days before going to Tuscany so maybe I was more attracted by the beautiful cover and the setting of the book and didn't read the description to closely.
3 stars because it is a well written book, just not my genre.
She visits a chocolate fair in Rome to try to expand her business interests to Europe . Once she has arrived in Rome she gets visions about a Vestal Virgin and she meets an American history professor.
I liked the setting in Rome and Tuscany in particular around Cortona (is it really a coincidence that the book is called Bella Toscana or is it a reference to Francis Mayes Bella Tuscany?). Although I have to say that I sometimes found the references a bit cliché. But on the positive side, the Italian phrases that were used were all correct, something I can't say about all the books written by non Italians that I have read.
I think the book is well written and the author did a good job but it's just not the kind of novel that I like and all the references to chocolate and other sweets got on my nerves at times. I guess that I expected another kind of story. I requested the book from Netgalley days before going to Tuscany so maybe I was more attracted by the beautiful cover and the setting of the book and didn't read the description to closely.
3 stars because it is a well written book, just not my genre.
May 23, 2020
Outstanding book!
I couldn’t put this book down. It is the perfect combination of history, romance, beautiful scenery and emotional turmoil to keep the reader wanting to find out “what’s next”.
Each and every character is worked out very well and believable. Toscana will stay with me for a long time.
I couldn’t put this book down. It is the perfect combination of history, romance, beautiful scenery and emotional turmoil to keep the reader wanting to find out “what’s next”.
Each and every character is worked out very well and believable. Toscana will stay with me for a long time.
April 23, 2026
I'll be honest and admit that I wasn't super hopeful about this starting off. From the synopsis, it sounded like this was going to be romanticizing infidelity, but books where the FMC is past her 20s are rare, so I gave it a chance.
Right from the prologue, I had misgivings. "Love is selfish. Love craves attention. Love needs to be heard, to be felt. Love is a natural disaster." I believe this is true of lust... not love. To love someone is a wholly unselfish act. I continued on. The world building once in Italy was amazing. The story telling Nanette does it well done- you can fully grasp Toscana's loneliness, her complacency in her marriage, and the emptiness that she feels from it. Further on, she writes "sometimes God has a plan for us that doesn't make any sense." Which, yes true. But, I've heard it said before- God isn't going to send you someone else's husband/wife.
As expected, Toscana finds herself having an affair with Flynn while in Tuscany. She comes back and tries to pretend everything is fine. Her husband somehow found the article clipping showing her and Flynn kissing (and never explained how? Like, she kept it in her purse, not just laying around...) and then she is surprised when he had the audacity to be upset with her. She ends up leaving for a few days and then is again surprised when he texts her to come back and doesn't apologize for "being such a fool"... I'm sorry, what?
Then, we are suddenly introduced to a traumatic sexual assault that happened when she was a child... She realizes her best friend is dating her assailant, and blurts out that he r@ped her... Then she is left backpedaling and apologizing to HIM and the bestie because he didn't actually full on r@pe her... because she bit him and ran off... but he still assaulted her and physically violated her and that is left completely downplayed. Him, as an adult... 'don't women like that?', 'well, I was being beaten by my pops and took it out on you', and 'you're still carrying that around?'. This whole section felt completely icky and honestly was NOT related to the main story line, expect linked in some vague way of how she needed to provide forgiveness from the past to move on... except, the guy never apologized? I don't know. Felt out of place and disjointed.
Ends with her being divorced, her business closing, her working for some other guy introduced 7/8 way through the book, and 3 years later reconnecting with Flynn. The visions stopped as suddenly as they came on with no explanation at all.
Right from the prologue, I had misgivings. "Love is selfish. Love craves attention. Love needs to be heard, to be felt. Love is a natural disaster." I believe this is true of lust... not love. To love someone is a wholly unselfish act. I continued on. The world building once in Italy was amazing. The story telling Nanette does it well done- you can fully grasp Toscana's loneliness, her complacency in her marriage, and the emptiness that she feels from it. Further on, she writes "sometimes God has a plan for us that doesn't make any sense." Which, yes true. But, I've heard it said before- God isn't going to send you someone else's husband/wife.
As expected, Toscana finds herself having an affair with Flynn while in Tuscany. She comes back and tries to pretend everything is fine. Her husband somehow found the article clipping showing her and Flynn kissing (and never explained how? Like, she kept it in her purse, not just laying around...) and then she is surprised when he had the audacity to be upset with her. She ends up leaving for a few days and then is again surprised when he texts her to come back and doesn't apologize for "being such a fool"... I'm sorry, what?
Then, we are suddenly introduced to a traumatic sexual assault that happened when she was a child... She realizes her best friend is dating her assailant, and blurts out that he r@ped her... Then she is left backpedaling and apologizing to HIM and the bestie because he didn't actually full on r@pe her... because she bit him and ran off... but he still assaulted her and physically violated her and that is left completely downplayed. Him, as an adult... 'don't women like that?', 'well, I was being beaten by my pops and took it out on you', and 'you're still carrying that around?'. This whole section felt completely icky and honestly was NOT related to the main story line, expect linked in some vague way of how she needed to provide forgiveness from the past to move on... except, the guy never apologized? I don't know. Felt out of place and disjointed.
Ends with her being divorced, her business closing, her working for some other guy introduced 7/8 way through the book, and 3 years later reconnecting with Flynn. The visions stopped as suddenly as they came on with no explanation at all.
January 31, 2019
Wow, just wow! The words in the Prologue, "I loved him before I knew him" stopped me in my tracks and I couldn't breathe. I have said these words, I have felt the synchronicity of life, looking for signs, interpreting each moment as my destiny and to be honest, your book both challenged and enthralled me. It reminded me of Symphony No. 5 in C Minor by Beethoven which opens with perhaps the four most famous chords of all time - the famous "da da da duuum". Similar to Bella Toscana, could this represent the sound of Fate knocking at the door.
As a dreamer, a poet, a wildfire traveller, a romancer of ideals and a believer in love, your writing and the journey of Toscana, the people, the places, the passion enthralled me. When Toscana is receiving the reading from Gianna and says, "Then I hear the words Romeo e Giuletta and a chill washes over me. " Beyond my awareness of the death of Shakespeare's star-crossed lovers, I can see the consequence of Toscana's actions, just like Romeo's decision to go to the masquerade ball will be "bitter". In her heart, like Romeo, Toscana suspects that this is her fate.
With the homage to Shakespeare (Fate) and King Arthur (Courage), I am reminded of my own insecurities over the years which have echoed Toscana's thoughts, "It's just...it's hard to believe that something good could happen after all my failure." I am also reminded that just like the language of Shakespeare and the legend of Camelot, Bella Toscana is a love story (in the eyes of Professor Flynn) within a love story (in the familiarity of marriage to Jackson). As a reader, you can't help but live in the imaginations of Toscana and the feelings of searching beyond words to find hidden meanings and relevance. The juxtaposition is the inner struggles Toscana faces with history, visions, selling brownies in Italy and confusion about love, against the fateful soul's desire which drives her, somewhat reluctantly, forward. Through Toscana's unveiling of her own doubts, guilt and denials, the reader is gently encouraged to go deeper, to question, to have patience, to listen to our own inner voice, follow our heart, live in the moment, the importance of forgiveness, journaling and having the courage to start again. Could it be, as Carl Jung said, "That which we do not confront in ourselves we will meet as fate." You will have to read the book to find the answer.
As a dreamer, a poet, a wildfire traveller, a romancer of ideals and a believer in love, your writing and the journey of Toscana, the people, the places, the passion enthralled me. When Toscana is receiving the reading from Gianna and says, "Then I hear the words Romeo e Giuletta and a chill washes over me. " Beyond my awareness of the death of Shakespeare's star-crossed lovers, I can see the consequence of Toscana's actions, just like Romeo's decision to go to the masquerade ball will be "bitter". In her heart, like Romeo, Toscana suspects that this is her fate.
With the homage to Shakespeare (Fate) and King Arthur (Courage), I am reminded of my own insecurities over the years which have echoed Toscana's thoughts, "It's just...it's hard to believe that something good could happen after all my failure." I am also reminded that just like the language of Shakespeare and the legend of Camelot, Bella Toscana is a love story (in the eyes of Professor Flynn) within a love story (in the familiarity of marriage to Jackson). As a reader, you can't help but live in the imaginations of Toscana and the feelings of searching beyond words to find hidden meanings and relevance. The juxtaposition is the inner struggles Toscana faces with history, visions, selling brownies in Italy and confusion about love, against the fateful soul's desire which drives her, somewhat reluctantly, forward. Through Toscana's unveiling of her own doubts, guilt and denials, the reader is gently encouraged to go deeper, to question, to have patience, to listen to our own inner voice, follow our heart, live in the moment, the importance of forgiveness, journaling and having the courage to start again. Could it be, as Carl Jung said, "That which we do not confront in ourselves we will meet as fate." You will have to read the book to find the answer.
April 23, 2026
Toscana Blake has the perfect life. A husband who loves her, her business making amazing brownies and she just turned 50. Beside the strange dream she just had about ancient lovers all is good. Now she wants to expand her brownie business to Italy where her family is from. She has.a trip planned to go to a Chocolate convention in Rome and find someone to carry her brownies. But things aren’t going her way. Her husband has to work and can’t go, she gets in and the first chocolate business she goes to talk to the owner never shows so she leave the show for the day frustrated. She visits the forum to take her mind off things and as she is viewing the temple of Vestals she has a vision and almost collapses. Luckily a professor is taking his students through and catches her. Flynn an american living in Rome teaching at the university is worried she isn’t ok. Gives Toscana his card to have her call him if she needs anything.
After another frustrating day at the convention she sees Flynn working in one of the booths. She says hi and talks about her frustration and he takes her on a field trip to get her mind off it. Where she has another vision of the past and almost passes out.
So Toscana and Flynn are off to figure out who her visions are about. There is just something about Flynn. He is sweet and comforting when he is around.
The story is entertaining and fun. I love the history and the entanglement in the present.
What do the visions mean and what does the passion she is feeling mean.
Follow Toscana and Flynn through Rome and Tuscany and find out where it all ends up.
I now want to go back to italy and just wander. Such a wonderful tale of how life can change and how to navigate change.
After another frustrating day at the convention she sees Flynn working in one of the booths. She says hi and talks about her frustration and he takes her on a field trip to get her mind off it. Where she has another vision of the past and almost passes out.
So Toscana and Flynn are off to figure out who her visions are about. There is just something about Flynn. He is sweet and comforting when he is around.
The story is entertaining and fun. I love the history and the entanglement in the present.
What do the visions mean and what does the passion she is feeling mean.
Follow Toscana and Flynn through Rome and Tuscany and find out where it all ends up.
I now want to go back to italy and just wander. Such a wonderful tale of how life can change and how to navigate change.
October 12, 2019
I am a sucker for covers and this one just drew me in. The other attraction was the setting and background. Chocolate, baking, and to top it all Tuscany. Could one ask for more. You then add in doses of romance a bit of time travel and you have a lovely story.
Toscana is the owner of a shop selling brownies. Not just brownies. These seem to be artisanal brownies. With an Italian heritage and going to Tuscany after decades she decides to try her hand at the export business of bringing brownies to Italy - a country that does not know what brownies are.
Her task is straightforward. Attend a Chocolate Festival, do her best to sell her product to three leading chocolatiers, visit her uncle and aunt and cousins and then return to Jackson her husband who at the last minute cannot join her on the trip.
What she didnt account for was meeting Flynn, a Professor of History in Rome, being instantly attracted to him and to top it all, having visions and dreams of a very disturbing nature - being part of ancient Rome involving Vestals, Roman soldiers, a very torrid love affair all set in ancient Rome.
The visions and going back in time are very matter of fact but the falling in love part was anything but! Descriptive of both Tuscany, the chocolate and baking fields which formed the main part of the story and then returning to America to Toscana's life before Flynn was well told.
Whether it is rebirth or a soul's eternal travels this is a good way of handling some people's experience of a previous life. Trying to make an explanation of this is not easy but this book handled it very well.
Toscana is the owner of a shop selling brownies. Not just brownies. These seem to be artisanal brownies. With an Italian heritage and going to Tuscany after decades she decides to try her hand at the export business of bringing brownies to Italy - a country that does not know what brownies are.
Her task is straightforward. Attend a Chocolate Festival, do her best to sell her product to three leading chocolatiers, visit her uncle and aunt and cousins and then return to Jackson her husband who at the last minute cannot join her on the trip.
What she didnt account for was meeting Flynn, a Professor of History in Rome, being instantly attracted to him and to top it all, having visions and dreams of a very disturbing nature - being part of ancient Rome involving Vestals, Roman soldiers, a very torrid love affair all set in ancient Rome.
The visions and going back in time are very matter of fact but the falling in love part was anything but! Descriptive of both Tuscany, the chocolate and baking fields which formed the main part of the story and then returning to America to Toscana's life before Flynn was well told.
Whether it is rebirth or a soul's eternal travels this is a good way of handling some people's experience of a previous life. Trying to make an explanation of this is not easy but this book handled it very well.
April 27, 2026
Bella Toscana follows fifty year old married business woman Toscana, who ventures to Rome by herself to network at the Chocolate Festival before visiting family in Tuscany. However, when in Rome, she meets Flynn, and starts having visions of two lovers from a past life. Flynn helps her find out more about these visions and at the same time, help her find out more about herself. All of the characters were pretty nuanced and layered which makes it hard to choose a favourite or least favourite character. I recommend this book because there’s some well-written parts, some inspiring aspects of the story, and an interesting concept regarding the lovers from a past life. However, it was a little bit confusing. It’s like the story is split into two parts, the first part following Toscana and Flynn as they fall for each other. Whilst I read that part, I felt like I was told about Flynn and Toscana’s feelings for each other rather than shown how or why they developed, which made it difficult to sympathise with her, especially considering the story takes place over a few days. The second part followed Toscana’s life back home in America, with her brownie business and the husband she loves but has no passion with and her best friend and the man her best friend has started dating. But I felt like that part, the Bobby storyline, came out of nowhere and completely threw me, it was like I was reading a different book. I had a lot of issues with that plot line and I don’t think it fit well within the story. But I was happy with the ending. ‘With him there is no beginning, no middle, no end. There is only us, now, for all time.’
June 8, 2019
BOOK REVIEW: Bella Toscana
Author, Nanette Littlestone, has created a story to be treasured in the writing of, Bella Toscana.
A captivating narrative that has left an imprint on my heart.
A pleasant, intriguing and heartfelt story that will have you wrapped up in the beauty of love and life itself, of the Italian Countryside- it's language of love, the food of the Gods, and its rich, historical moments of the past.
A personal journey for our protagonist, Toscana, as she struggles with the love she has, the true love she desires, and a mysterious connection that has taken her on a relentless quest for answers, becomes a sensual and absorbing read. Love, loss, and unexpected challenges abound...
Nanette Littlestone has a true talent for writing the lyrical, a master of storytelling...in taking us, the reader, on a journey through her words. This story is not only one of Toscana's world, but it becomes a journey of your own...One of reflection and growth.
A superb example of weaving not only the past and present timeframe of the narrative, but pulling the reader into its pages as if you're living within the story...
Bella Toscana is luscious, mystical, picturesque and devine. A storyline you will truly fall in love with.
I thank author, Nanette Littlestone for my personal, signed gift of Bella Toscana - one in which I thoroughly enjoyed and am grateful for, as well as, the opportunity to review.
5+ Stars
#Bella Toscana
#NanetteLittlestone
#WordsOfPassion Publishing
Wild Sage Book Blog (FB)
Novels & Latte Book Club (FB)
Author, Nanette Littlestone, has created a story to be treasured in the writing of, Bella Toscana.
A captivating narrative that has left an imprint on my heart.
A pleasant, intriguing and heartfelt story that will have you wrapped up in the beauty of love and life itself, of the Italian Countryside- it's language of love, the food of the Gods, and its rich, historical moments of the past.
A personal journey for our protagonist, Toscana, as she struggles with the love she has, the true love she desires, and a mysterious connection that has taken her on a relentless quest for answers, becomes a sensual and absorbing read. Love, loss, and unexpected challenges abound...
Nanette Littlestone has a true talent for writing the lyrical, a master of storytelling...in taking us, the reader, on a journey through her words. This story is not only one of Toscana's world, but it becomes a journey of your own...One of reflection and growth.
A superb example of weaving not only the past and present timeframe of the narrative, but pulling the reader into its pages as if you're living within the story...
Bella Toscana is luscious, mystical, picturesque and devine. A storyline you will truly fall in love with.
I thank author, Nanette Littlestone for my personal, signed gift of Bella Toscana - one in which I thoroughly enjoyed and am grateful for, as well as, the opportunity to review.
5+ Stars
#Bella Toscana
#NanetteLittlestone
#WordsOfPassion Publishing
Wild Sage Book Blog (FB)
Novels & Latte Book Club (FB)
June 14, 2019
My summer reading plans were derailed almost immediately by this gem! I had a plan for the next few books I was going to read. Finish The Gentleman In Moscow and then move on to the 4 other books I mentioned in my last blog post.
And then Netgalley sent me a free ebook, Bella Toscana by Nanette Littlestone.
I did only a cursory look at the description; a woman who just turned 50 finds love in Tuscany. What's not to love about that? And, since I am leaving for Italy in a few weeks, I had to give it a read. It was a no brainer!
This book had everything that makes a great, light, summer beach read and so much more. It starts with food, the hinting of a little family drama, travel,, infatuation, love. Then, along comes past lives, history, woman's issues, friendship, inspirational quotes, girl power and so much more!
In the end, it's Outlander meets Under The Tuscan Sun. The book felt light and deep all at the same time. I chuckled at parts, my throat closed up from heartbreak at parts, I was angry at parts and I also smiled with joy at parts. Bella Toscana ran the whole range of emotions, and I love that in a book!
If this sounds like a good way to spend a summer afternoon or evening (or both), grab a copy and get reading!
www.cocktailsinthelibrary.com
And then Netgalley sent me a free ebook, Bella Toscana by Nanette Littlestone.
I did only a cursory look at the description; a woman who just turned 50 finds love in Tuscany. What's not to love about that? And, since I am leaving for Italy in a few weeks, I had to give it a read. It was a no brainer!
This book had everything that makes a great, light, summer beach read and so much more. It starts with food, the hinting of a little family drama, travel,, infatuation, love. Then, along comes past lives, history, woman's issues, friendship, inspirational quotes, girl power and so much more!
In the end, it's Outlander meets Under The Tuscan Sun. The book felt light and deep all at the same time. I chuckled at parts, my throat closed up from heartbreak at parts, I was angry at parts and I also smiled with joy at parts. Bella Toscana ran the whole range of emotions, and I love that in a book!
If this sounds like a good way to spend a summer afternoon or evening (or both), grab a copy and get reading!
www.cocktailsinthelibrary.com
April 28, 2026
When a trip to Italy opens up more than just your eyes. Toscana Blake has been the sensible wife and sensible life but when she decides to go on a trip to Italy it opens her world to colour and life.
Toscana decides to visit Italy within the Chocolate Festival of Rome and when she arrives it opens her eyes and her heart because as she is visiting and walking through the streets she encounters a man who changes her world completely.
Flynn is a younger, charming History professor who enchants Toscana and is open emotionally, this makes Toscana realise that she has been living a world of white when she she should have been seeing the colours of the world and to find someone who truly can see her for who she is.
This is the first book I have read by this author and thoroughly enjoyed the light style of the slow burn and thoroughly fell in love with these two characters. Flynn's character was light and showed a side to Toscana that she had not had before, opening up her emotionally journey.
The story was well written and a beautifully glided along to draw you in and a beautifully way it gently transported through to Italy and the wonderful descriptions of things added it as an additional character in the story.
I can't wait to read other stories by this author.
Toscana decides to visit Italy within the Chocolate Festival of Rome and when she arrives it opens her eyes and her heart because as she is visiting and walking through the streets she encounters a man who changes her world completely.
Flynn is a younger, charming History professor who enchants Toscana and is open emotionally, this makes Toscana realise that she has been living a world of white when she she should have been seeing the colours of the world and to find someone who truly can see her for who she is.
This is the first book I have read by this author and thoroughly enjoyed the light style of the slow burn and thoroughly fell in love with these two characters. Flynn's character was light and showed a side to Toscana that she had not had before, opening up her emotionally journey.
The story was well written and a beautifully glided along to draw you in and a beautifully way it gently transported through to Italy and the wonderful descriptions of things added it as an additional character in the story.
I can't wait to read other stories by this author.
June 18, 2019
A few pages into this book, I had apprehensions. Normally I don’t read books about reincarnation and when the book followed that theme of writing, I considered putting the book down and walking away. However, I continued reading and I can report that I am happy I did.
Toscana woke on the 50th birthday from such a vivid dream that she was plagued by it. During her trip to Italy these dreams and visions increased to the point that she believed she has gone crazy. A history professor, Flynn researched the possibility that there might be a connection from a previous life.
After a glorious time in Italy, Toscana returned home, and her life fell apart. Out of desperation she visited a therapist and through the guidance of the therapist she learned what the dreams meant.
Bella Toscana is a beautiful blend of excitement, heartbreak, passion and a deep longing. I was surprised to see some aspects of my life in the book at which point I wondered if the author is maybe somebody I told my story too 😊.
If you wish to read a book containing a rollercoaster of emotions, pick Bella Toscana. You will not be disappointed.
I received this book from NetGalley for an honest review.
Toscana woke on the 50th birthday from such a vivid dream that she was plagued by it. During her trip to Italy these dreams and visions increased to the point that she believed she has gone crazy. A history professor, Flynn researched the possibility that there might be a connection from a previous life.
After a glorious time in Italy, Toscana returned home, and her life fell apart. Out of desperation she visited a therapist and through the guidance of the therapist she learned what the dreams meant.
Bella Toscana is a beautiful blend of excitement, heartbreak, passion and a deep longing. I was surprised to see some aspects of my life in the book at which point I wondered if the author is maybe somebody I told my story too 😊.
If you wish to read a book containing a rollercoaster of emotions, pick Bella Toscana. You will not be disappointed.
I received this book from NetGalley for an honest review.
July 3, 2021
I devoured this book like a Napoli pizza! From the moment the protagonist, Toscana, touched down in Rome, I was all in. Toscana, a 50-year-old American woman, flies to Rome to participate in the Chocolate Festival, but she's in for a number of surprises. Soon she meets fellow American charmer Flynn (Errol?), who challenges her to consider the choices she'd made regarding her marriage and career. While she struggles to keep her attraction for Flynn under wraps, Toscana has a number of visions that appear to relate to some of the ancient sites they visit, such as the Forum, and suggest a connection to Flynn in a former life.
Bella Toscana is a mid-life voyage of self-discovery in which Toscana faces serious decisions. Can she return home to the States and be content in her 10-year marriage after her encounters with Flynn, or will she stay in Italy, and as her wise aunt advises, follow her heart? It takes a while for her to make what seems the right decision, one already written in the stars.
From the lush details of the Tuscan countryside to the rich culinary descriptions and warmth of the local people, there is no doubt that Ms. Littlestone is of Italian heritage and/or has spent a lot of time in Italy. As the story unfolded with more endearing characters (her aunt and Flynn's friends), I started reminiscing about long-ago trips to locations in the book and planning my next return. In the meantime, I'll have to settle for the local Finnish "Italia" pizza.
Bella Toscana is a mid-life voyage of self-discovery in which Toscana faces serious decisions. Can she return home to the States and be content in her 10-year marriage after her encounters with Flynn, or will she stay in Italy, and as her wise aunt advises, follow her heart? It takes a while for her to make what seems the right decision, one already written in the stars.
From the lush details of the Tuscan countryside to the rich culinary descriptions and warmth of the local people, there is no doubt that Ms. Littlestone is of Italian heritage and/or has spent a lot of time in Italy. As the story unfolded with more endearing characters (her aunt and Flynn's friends), I started reminiscing about long-ago trips to locations in the book and planning my next return. In the meantime, I'll have to settle for the local Finnish "Italia" pizza.
April 17, 2026
Bella Toscana….WOW. I got so lost in this read that I could not put it down. Toscana, in her 50’s, safe marriage that is just a partnership..Needs something more in her life. She travels to Italy for a famous chocolate festival. While there, she starts having visions and memories she can not understand. She meets Flynn and right away there is something about him that almost feels familiar to her. They embark together to try to find some answers to the vison or memories that she is having. Passion inside Toscana starts to come to life inside her, and then a psychic tells her, she truly isn’t alive, she isn’t fully living her life. Her journey is powerful, passionate, and courage.
OH this book. I just didn’t fall for the characters, I felt like I was walking along with them in Italy. I felt like I could c lose my eyers and be there with them, which is important to me as I read. And OHH the chocolate! I now want to go to Italy even more. This book was so much wrapped into one read, and highly recommend…great read. Thank you Nanette Littlestone, for giving us a book that asks questions so many of us face.
OH this book. I just didn’t fall for the characters, I felt like I was walking along with them in Italy. I felt like I could c lose my eyers and be there with them, which is important to me as I read. And OHH the chocolate! I now want to go to Italy even more. This book was so much wrapped into one read, and highly recommend…great read. Thank you Nanette Littlestone, for giving us a book that asks questions so many of us face.
April 28, 2026
Toscana's safe and predictable life is turned upside down when she begins to have vivid dreams about ancient Rome upon turning 50. What was supposed to be a trip of a lifetime to Italy for a chocolate festival with her husband, Jeremy, to meet her family and promote her brownie business, unexpectedly becomes a solo journey when Jeremy has to stay in Atlanta for work.
Undaunted, Toscana proceeds with the trip, but she soon finds herself overwhelmed by visions of a vestal virgin and her illicit lover. Fate introduces her to the handsome, younger Flynn, an ancient history professor who becomes intrigued by Toscana's dreams and vows to help her discover the identities of the people in her visions.
As Toscana and Flynn work together, their attraction deepens, influenced by her visions and the prophetic pronouncements of a medium. Could Toscana and Flynn truly be reincarnated lovers from ancient Rome? Ultimately, will Toscana have to choose between her past and her present as her relationship with Flynn intensifies?
This is a wonderfully descriptive book, bringing to life the Italian countryside and delectable desserts, alongside the emotional journey for Toscana.
Undaunted, Toscana proceeds with the trip, but she soon finds herself overwhelmed by visions of a vestal virgin and her illicit lover. Fate introduces her to the handsome, younger Flynn, an ancient history professor who becomes intrigued by Toscana's dreams and vows to help her discover the identities of the people in her visions.
As Toscana and Flynn work together, their attraction deepens, influenced by her visions and the prophetic pronouncements of a medium. Could Toscana and Flynn truly be reincarnated lovers from ancient Rome? Ultimately, will Toscana have to choose between her past and her present as her relationship with Flynn intensifies?
This is a wonderfully descriptive book, bringing to life the Italian countryside and delectable desserts, alongside the emotional journey for Toscana.
January 17, 2019
Bella Toscana is a contemporary novel written about a woman who decides to take a trip to the beautiful land of Italy. As a married woman, she meets professor Flynn, and that is when she begins to question everything about her self and her feelings.
Toscana’s passion is cooking. Her business is failing, and she needs to do something to change the tables around favoring her situation.
The picturesque descriptive nature of the literature takes you away to Tuscany and Rome. The author portrays an emotional and an unsuspected story that has the reader intrigued up until the end. The choices are hard, and the emotions invested in the story were felt. I simply connected to the purity of the words and found them enchanting.
In addition, I loved the original voice and refreshing inventiveness of the storyline. I enjoyed the cover of the book and felt that it represented the content very well. This is a love story, and I would recommend the book to woman fiction readers and people who are interested in romance.
Toscana’s passion is cooking. Her business is failing, and she needs to do something to change the tables around favoring her situation.
The picturesque descriptive nature of the literature takes you away to Tuscany and Rome. The author portrays an emotional and an unsuspected story that has the reader intrigued up until the end. The choices are hard, and the emotions invested in the story were felt. I simply connected to the purity of the words and found them enchanting.
In addition, I loved the original voice and refreshing inventiveness of the storyline. I enjoyed the cover of the book and felt that it represented the content very well. This is a love story, and I would recommend the book to woman fiction readers and people who are interested in romance.
April 8, 2026
This was a really good read. My only problem with it, was the main character Toscana. I loved her in the beginning, middle, but towards the end I just wanted to throttle her. She is already married, but engages in a romance with a younger man when she gets to Italy. Yes I know her marriage was more like a partnership more than anything, especially with her being in her 50's. It just never sat well with me. Overall, I really enjoyed the book. Toscana does eventually come to her senses and realizes that she needs a lot of healing and engages in said healing and tried to right all the wrongs she did. Nanette did a fantastic job with the story building and writing. It felt like I was in Italy myself walking the pathways, and roads and seeing all of the sights. The food was the main thing that kept me from DNFing the book. All of the chocolate, and desserts being mentioned, wanted me to reach for more and try and find my own kind of snack! Overall, I'm glad I gave this book a chance and finished reading it, but I don't think I will be re-reading it anytime soon.
April 20, 2026
This is an enjoyable and engaging story about finding love later in life. Toscana’s marriage is comfortable, predictable, and safe and having chosen nice over magic for fifty years, she’s searching for something more. Whilst on a trip to Rome to enjoy the city’s famous chocolate festival, Toscana visits the Temple of Vesta, where she experiences visions, of memories she can’t explain. She then meets a young history professor, Flynn, who feels hauntingly familiar to her and as he helps her decipher her visions, Toscana discovers a passion she thought she’d left behind. As she embarks on a journey of self discovery she must choose whether to embrace the love she deserves and choose magic. This captivating story kept me happily turning the pages. Toscana is a realistic, likeable, and relatable character, and I like that she’s a woman in her fifties finding love. The picturesque setting takes you from Rome’s bustling streets to Tuscany’s rolling hills. I felt fully immersed in the story and could feel the Italian sun on my face whilst reading!
April 23, 2026
This is a really heartwarming and moving story about one woman’s journey to self discovery, making changes and improving her life and finding a love that sets her soul on fire.
Toscana’s life gets turned upside down when she travels to Rome for a chocolate festival. While there she has visions of a life that could be so much more than the safe, comfortable life she currently was living with a man who was safe and stable but held no magic or spark.
When she meets a young history professor called Flynn he helps her work through and finding meaning to her visions and as times goes on Toscana finds herself falling for her new friend.
With the added nudge from a psychic Toscana is now left with a tricky decision. Now she has sampled a new life and love can she ever go back to her boring,safe, half lived life or is now the time for her to take the leap of faith and start embracing life fully.
I really enjoyed her story and it made me feel that it is never to late to change the course of your life and aim for something higher
Toscana’s life gets turned upside down when she travels to Rome for a chocolate festival. While there she has visions of a life that could be so much more than the safe, comfortable life she currently was living with a man who was safe and stable but held no magic or spark.
When she meets a young history professor called Flynn he helps her work through and finding meaning to her visions and as times goes on Toscana finds herself falling for her new friend.
With the added nudge from a psychic Toscana is now left with a tricky decision. Now she has sampled a new life and love can she ever go back to her boring,safe, half lived life or is now the time for her to take the leap of faith and start embracing life fully.
I really enjoyed her story and it made me feel that it is never to late to change the course of your life and aim for something higher
April 27, 2026
Italy, desserts and romance just go together am I right? This story shows that it’s never to late in life to discover, or maybe re descover, your passion. It follows Toscana, a bakery owner (specializing in brownies) in her 50’s. She is comfortable in her marriage and looking for inspiration to ignite her bakery and help it take off. She keeps having dreams of a past life or maybe her heart’s true desires? She sets out to Italy to attend a chocolate convention and get back to some of her family’s roots as well as hopefully expand her business to sell in Rome. Of course life throws a wrench into her plans. She now has to attend alone as her husband can’t get away from work and meeting with business owners turns out to be harder than she thought. At the convention Toscana meets Flynn, another American who is currently living and teaching in Rome. He takes interest/worry in her and offers her help. Her visions of this past life/desire continue. Will she figure out what they mean? Will she get a business in Rome to sell her brownies?
April 20, 2026
I enjoyed reading this romance story. This is a newer author for me in which I enjoyed their attention to details that made the story come to life. This is a story that takes place in Italy and I feel that the author did a great job of making me feel as if I was there with the characters. This is a story about discovering yourself again and the courage to let the magic in. Toscana is a little stuck in her nice life until she meets Flynn. The more time they spend together the more she finds her passion that she thought was gone. Will she continue to stay in her nice life or will she decide to let the magic in? I enjoyed both of these characters and what they brought to the story. They are strong, connectable and well developed. I also enjoyed watching their relationship grow which made the story easy to read. I found this story to be entertaining and fast paced. This is a hard to put down story that I highly recommend.
April 25, 2026
This is this first book I have read from this author and she now has a new fan. The way she wrote this book it felt like I was in Rome and Tuscany with the characters. I love a good older adult romance and this was a perfect story. You will fall in love with these characters right from the start. It only took me a few hours to devour this amazing story. I can’t wait to see what this author will write about next.
Toscana Blake has been married for fifty years and she feels like the spark is lost. She feels safe with her husband but it’s not the same. Toscana goes on a trip to Europe for a popular chocolate festival. She meets a very handsome Flynn Harris. He is a young history professor and she feels a connection to him. Toscana sees a psychic just for fun; she tells her she needs more to her life. She is now ready to find the life that she wants to live but will she go back to her old life or make a new one?
Toscana Blake has been married for fifty years and she feels like the spark is lost. She feels safe with her husband but it’s not the same. Toscana goes on a trip to Europe for a popular chocolate festival. She meets a very handsome Flynn Harris. He is a young history professor and she feels a connection to him. Toscana sees a psychic just for fun; she tells her she needs more to her life. She is now ready to find the life that she wants to live but will she go back to her old life or make a new one?
April 30, 2026
Bella Toscana
by Nannette Littlestone
I give this book a 4 stars
of 5 stars.
Bella Toscana is a feel good charming escape into the heart of Italy. This story has vivid descriptions of Italy, mouth watering italian cuisine, Chocolate brownies and heartfelt moments.
Toscana meets Flynn in Italy at this Chocolate festival by chance where she is trying to sell her amazingly decadent brownies to the Italian market, but she gets wrapped up in some visions and dreams that shes been having since arriving in Rome and Flynn is trying to help figure out what they mean. Also she is dealing with her boring marriage with her husband Jackson back home in America. Toscana has family in Tuscany where she goes to visit her Aunt and other relatives while dealing with alot of other problems since coming to Italy.
I did enjoy this story it draws you in and keeps you turning the pages till the end. A lovely blend of beauty, emotion, charm and romance and Chocolate.
by Nannette Littlestone
I give this book a 4 stars
of 5 stars.
Bella Toscana is a feel good charming escape into the heart of Italy. This story has vivid descriptions of Italy, mouth watering italian cuisine, Chocolate brownies and heartfelt moments.
Toscana meets Flynn in Italy at this Chocolate festival by chance where she is trying to sell her amazingly decadent brownies to the Italian market, but she gets wrapped up in some visions and dreams that shes been having since arriving in Rome and Flynn is trying to help figure out what they mean. Also she is dealing with her boring marriage with her husband Jackson back home in America. Toscana has family in Tuscany where she goes to visit her Aunt and other relatives while dealing with alot of other problems since coming to Italy.
I did enjoy this story it draws you in and keeps you turning the pages till the end. A lovely blend of beauty, emotion, charm and romance and Chocolate.
December 16, 2018
In Nanette Littlestone's new novel the lead character has a well ordered life with a dependable and successful, but something is missing. Is it just a mid-life crisis or something buried in her subconscious that happened in the past. Toscana is sure that a planned trip to Italy with her husband will bring her out of the dumps.
The transformation of Toscana begins when work keeps her husband at home and she is forced to make the trip alone. There she meets a stranger who could change her life forever.
Nanette has a way of painting beautiful pictures with words. Bella Toscana has all the elements
of a mystery and love store. You will want to read the last page first, but don't, because there is no sure way you can be sure about the ending.
Dwain L. Herndon, Writer of southern fiction.
The transformation of Toscana begins when work keeps her husband at home and she is forced to make the trip alone. There she meets a stranger who could change her life forever.
Nanette has a way of painting beautiful pictures with words. Bella Toscana has all the elements
of a mystery and love store. You will want to read the last page first, but don't, because there is no sure way you can be sure about the ending.
Dwain L. Herndon, Writer of southern fiction.
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