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The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany
A trio of second-born daughters set out to break the family curse that says they’ll never find love on a whirlwind journey through the lush Italian countryside by New York Times bestseller Lori Nelson Spielman, author of The Life List.
Since the day Filomena Fontana cast a curse upon her sister more than two hundred years ago, not one second-born Fontana daughter has found lasting love. Some, like second-born Emilia, the happily-single baker at her grandfather’s Brooklyn deli, claim it’s an odd coincidence. Others, like her sexy, desperate-for-love cousin Lucy, insist it’s a true hex. But both are bewildered when their great-aunt calls with an astounding proposition: If they accompany her to her homeland of Italy, Aunt Poppy vows she’ll meet the love of her life on the steps of the Ravello Cathedral on her eightieth birthday, and break the Fontana Second-Daughter Curse once and for all.
Against the backdrop of wandering Venetian canals, rolling Tuscan fields, and enchanting Amalfi Coast villages, romance blooms, destinies are found, and family secrets are unearthed—secrets that could threaten the family far more than a centuries-old curse.
Since the day Filomena Fontana cast a curse upon her sister more than two hundred years ago, not one second-born Fontana daughter has found lasting love. Some, like second-born Emilia, the happily-single baker at her grandfather’s Brooklyn deli, claim it’s an odd coincidence. Others, like her sexy, desperate-for-love cousin Lucy, insist it’s a true hex. But both are bewildered when their great-aunt calls with an astounding proposition: If they accompany her to her homeland of Italy, Aunt Poppy vows she’ll meet the love of her life on the steps of the Ravello Cathedral on her eightieth birthday, and break the Fontana Second-Daughter Curse once and for all.
Against the backdrop of wandering Venetian canals, rolling Tuscan fields, and enchanting Amalfi Coast villages, romance blooms, destinies are found, and family secrets are unearthed—secrets that could threaten the family far more than a centuries-old curse.
400 pages, Paperback
First published September 26, 2018
1564 people are currently reading
40560 people want to read
About the author
Lori Nelson Spielman
17 books1,759 followersLori Nelson Spielman is a former speech pathologist, guidance counselor, and teacher of homebound students. She enjoys fitness running, traveling, and reading, though writing is her true passion. Her first novel, The Life List, has been published in over thirty countries and optioned by Fox 2000. Her second novel, Sweet Forgiveness, was also an international bestseller. Her third book, The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany, releases November 17, 2020. She lives in Michigan with her husband and their very spoiled puppy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 5,011 reviews
May 4, 2021
Lo amo I’Italia!E un viaggio fantastico !
How can you resist charm of this amazing country? Swimming in Lake Como, sipping those tasty wines at Tuscany’s vineyards, taking a gondola tour at Venice, shopping at Milano, eating amazing margarita pizzas in Napoli, saluting Pope at Vatican, giving ridiculous poses in front of Tower of Pisa as if you’re holding it not to collapse, spending hours and feeding your soul with amazing paintings at Uffizi and of course taking a yacht tour at Capri while devouring more Chianti with (not Ray Liotta’s brain pieces, forget that scene!) seafood pasta!
Mamma mia! I feel in love in Italy when I got my first European vacation tour with my family like Griswolds ( I was only 13, chubby, annoying, because I was my under my drinking age. After I meet with Chardonnay I became a lovely person!) When I returned back, I watched Robert Downey Jr. and Marisa Tomei’s “Only You” and find myself enrolling Italian Culture courses to learn this amazing language.
This book brought me all those amazing memories and my journeys around Italian cities. Many years later, I visited them with my husband and gained 6 pounds at one week because of extreme carbs consumption. It was definitely worth it!
Let’s get back to this amazing story reminded me of my beautiful memories in flashes. If you haven’t seen Italy, this book is realistic guide for your soul journey that make you feel you visit those incredible places, free your spirit and soul, open yourself new experiences. It’s heartwarming, emotional, entertaining story of sisterhood.
Emilia decides to break the family curse to be definer of her own destiny and learn more about her ancestors because she knows that if you want to achieve something concrete in your future, you have to visit your past and learn where you come from and who you are.
Emilia’s self-discovery, influenced journey starting from Venice canals, moving to Amalfi Coast made me so excited. But I also loved to go to the sixty years in the past and enjoy reading Poppy’s story, bringing back to the history of Berlin Wall.
Emilia finds more about her family secrets, lies, betrayals during the journey but she is a bigger person to forgive all of them and move on with her life. This is a hopeful, embracing, sweet, promising reading which helps you to see the stars at the darkest hour of the night and the illuminating light at the end of the tunnel. You smile, you relieve, you cry, you resent but at the end your heart warms and you feel for all those beautiful characters.
It’s about holding your hopes and embracing the life and happiness.
OVERALL: I.LOVE.IT.SO.MUCH, Deserved my five billion stars!
Special thanks to Netgalley and Berkley for sharing this fantastic book’s ARC COPY in exchange my honest review.
How can you resist charm of this amazing country? Swimming in Lake Como, sipping those tasty wines at Tuscany’s vineyards, taking a gondola tour at Venice, shopping at Milano, eating amazing margarita pizzas in Napoli, saluting Pope at Vatican, giving ridiculous poses in front of Tower of Pisa as if you’re holding it not to collapse, spending hours and feeding your soul with amazing paintings at Uffizi and of course taking a yacht tour at Capri while devouring more Chianti with (not Ray Liotta’s brain pieces, forget that scene!) seafood pasta!
Mamma mia! I feel in love in Italy when I got my first European vacation tour with my family like Griswolds ( I was only 13, chubby, annoying, because I was my under my drinking age. After I meet with Chardonnay I became a lovely person!) When I returned back, I watched Robert Downey Jr. and Marisa Tomei’s “Only You” and find myself enrolling Italian Culture courses to learn this amazing language.
This book brought me all those amazing memories and my journeys around Italian cities. Many years later, I visited them with my husband and gained 6 pounds at one week because of extreme carbs consumption. It was definitely worth it!
Let’s get back to this amazing story reminded me of my beautiful memories in flashes. If you haven’t seen Italy, this book is realistic guide for your soul journey that make you feel you visit those incredible places, free your spirit and soul, open yourself new experiences. It’s heartwarming, emotional, entertaining story of sisterhood.
Emilia decides to break the family curse to be definer of her own destiny and learn more about her ancestors because she knows that if you want to achieve something concrete in your future, you have to visit your past and learn where you come from and who you are.
Emilia’s self-discovery, influenced journey starting from Venice canals, moving to Amalfi Coast made me so excited. But I also loved to go to the sixty years in the past and enjoy reading Poppy’s story, bringing back to the history of Berlin Wall.
Emilia finds more about her family secrets, lies, betrayals during the journey but she is a bigger person to forgive all of them and move on with her life. This is a hopeful, embracing, sweet, promising reading which helps you to see the stars at the darkest hour of the night and the illuminating light at the end of the tunnel. You smile, you relieve, you cry, you resent but at the end your heart warms and you feel for all those beautiful characters.
It’s about holding your hopes and embracing the life and happiness.
OVERALL: I.LOVE.IT.SO.MUCH, Deserved my five billion stars!
Special thanks to Netgalley and Berkley for sharing this fantastic book’s ARC COPY in exchange my honest review.
December 31, 2020
Be sure to visit Bantering Books to read all my latest reviews.
Red wine gives me migraines. (Oh, such unfair horror, I know.)
I absolutely cannot drink it. Not one single drop. Even though I love it so. Because if I do, I will be sicker than a dog – for days.
I can’t even drink a rosé. Or a blush. Believe me, I’ve tried. A wine with even the faintest tint of pink is poison to my body.
It’s one of my life’s little cruelties that I must bear. And for the most part, I’ve accepted this red-wineless fate of mine, with only a smallish amount of occasional complaint.
But once again, thanks to Lori Nelson Spielman’s lovely new novel, The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany, I have a hankering for red wine like you wouldn’t believe. My long-suppressed craving is suppressed no more, and unfortunately, I am without a way to quench it.
Hmm. Maybe I can somehow satiate my thirst as I write this review by recreating in my mind a few of the wine-infused scenes of the story. At the very least, it’s worth a try. More surprising things have happened in life, I suppose.
Over two hundred years ago, Filomena Fontana cursed her younger sister to a life without love, in a moment of jealous anger. And true to Filomena’s words, all second-born Fontana daughters have failed to find enduring love, ever since that day.
But is it truly due to a curse? Or just more of a coincidence? The answer given will vary, depending upon which Fontana family member is asked.
There are those like second-born-daughter Emilia, a contented, single baker in her grandfather’s Brooklyn deli, who strongly believe the similar fates of the Fontana women are nothing more than happenstance. And then there are those like second-born-daughter Luciana, Emilia’s cousin with the world’s worst luck in love, who believe the curse to be pure truth.
All differences of opinion aside, both Emilia and Luciana are taken aback when their Great-Aunt Poppy, who is also a second-born Fontana daughter, invites them to accompany her on an all-expense-paid trip to her homeland of Italy. To further sweeten the deal, Poppy promises that while they are there, she will be reunited with the love of her life at the Ravello Cathedral on her eightieth birthday, thereby forever breaking the family curse.
Enticed by the prospects of both an Italian getaway and Poppy’s bold promise, Emilia and Luciana set off with Poppy on a trip of a lifetime – a trip that will unbury family secrets, ignite newfound inner flames, and change their lives in so many unforeseen ways.
The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany has filled a tiny hole in my book-lovin’ heart. A hole that, for the last few years, has been patiently waiting to be patched with a new novel by Sarah Addison Allen. And while Spielman’s story does not have the same touch of magical realism as is so common in Allen’s novels, the tone and the feel of the narrative are the same. It’s a warm and cozy, rich tale of romance, family secrets, and the unbreakable bonds of sisters.
And there’s scrumptious food. And luscious (red!) wine. And gorgeously vivid descriptions of Italy – its people, its cities, and its countryside.
It’s enough to make you wanna jump on the first available flight to Venice, let me tell ya.
Spielman’s writing is vibrant and sparse, clean of any excess. Her characterization is superb, and she has crafted three memorable and lovable characters in Poppy, Emilia, and Luciana. You will laugh with them. Smile with them. You will mourn their losses and celebrate their victories.
You will cheer as Emilia, always the pushover, finally sprouts a backbone and stands up for herself. You will applaud Luciana as she grows into her own place of self-acceptance. You will absorb Poppy’s words of wisdom and hold them close to your heart.
The novel is compelling, emotional, and sincere. It is consuming and highly enjoyable.
I will confess, however, that The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany does feel a bit clichéd and predictable at times. And once again, much of the romance is of the dreaded, eye-rolling insta love variety. Yet the story is also surprising in many ways, and it takes a few unexpected turns, enough to offset the handful of inevitable plot points that can be seen a mile away.
But what will stick with me the most, I think – and compensates also for the slightly unoriginal narrative – is the overarching message of the novel. It’s a message that, to me, is universal. It is one that both men and women will appreciate. And it is this –
To live a full and happy life, romantic love and marriage are not prerequisites. Yet an opportunity to love, and to be loved, should never be squandered. Love is always worthy of at least a good looking-over, as Poppy would say.
To this sentiment, I could not agree more.
And on that note, off I go to enjoy a refreshing glass of chardonnay. You should treat yourself to your own glass, too, as you sit and read the beautiful novel that is The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany.
Cheers!
My sincerest appreciation to Berkley and Edelweiss+ for the Advance Review Copy. All opinions included herein are my own.
Bantering Books
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Red wine gives me migraines. (Oh, such unfair horror, I know.)
I absolutely cannot drink it. Not one single drop. Even though I love it so. Because if I do, I will be sicker than a dog – for days.
I can’t even drink a rosé. Or a blush. Believe me, I’ve tried. A wine with even the faintest tint of pink is poison to my body.
It’s one of my life’s little cruelties that I must bear. And for the most part, I’ve accepted this red-wineless fate of mine, with only a smallish amount of occasional complaint.
But once again, thanks to Lori Nelson Spielman’s lovely new novel, The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany, I have a hankering for red wine like you wouldn’t believe. My long-suppressed craving is suppressed no more, and unfortunately, I am without a way to quench it.
Hmm. Maybe I can somehow satiate my thirst as I write this review by recreating in my mind a few of the wine-infused scenes of the story. At the very least, it’s worth a try. More surprising things have happened in life, I suppose.
Over two hundred years ago, Filomena Fontana cursed her younger sister to a life without love, in a moment of jealous anger. And true to Filomena’s words, all second-born Fontana daughters have failed to find enduring love, ever since that day.
But is it truly due to a curse? Or just more of a coincidence? The answer given will vary, depending upon which Fontana family member is asked.
There are those like second-born-daughter Emilia, a contented, single baker in her grandfather’s Brooklyn deli, who strongly believe the similar fates of the Fontana women are nothing more than happenstance. And then there are those like second-born-daughter Luciana, Emilia’s cousin with the world’s worst luck in love, who believe the curse to be pure truth.
All differences of opinion aside, both Emilia and Luciana are taken aback when their Great-Aunt Poppy, who is also a second-born Fontana daughter, invites them to accompany her on an all-expense-paid trip to her homeland of Italy. To further sweeten the deal, Poppy promises that while they are there, she will be reunited with the love of her life at the Ravello Cathedral on her eightieth birthday, thereby forever breaking the family curse.
Enticed by the prospects of both an Italian getaway and Poppy’s bold promise, Emilia and Luciana set off with Poppy on a trip of a lifetime – a trip that will unbury family secrets, ignite newfound inner flames, and change their lives in so many unforeseen ways.
The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany has filled a tiny hole in my book-lovin’ heart. A hole that, for the last few years, has been patiently waiting to be patched with a new novel by Sarah Addison Allen. And while Spielman’s story does not have the same touch of magical realism as is so common in Allen’s novels, the tone and the feel of the narrative are the same. It’s a warm and cozy, rich tale of romance, family secrets, and the unbreakable bonds of sisters.
And there’s scrumptious food. And luscious (red!) wine. And gorgeously vivid descriptions of Italy – its people, its cities, and its countryside.
It’s enough to make you wanna jump on the first available flight to Venice, let me tell ya.
Spielman’s writing is vibrant and sparse, clean of any excess. Her characterization is superb, and she has crafted three memorable and lovable characters in Poppy, Emilia, and Luciana. You will laugh with them. Smile with them. You will mourn their losses and celebrate their victories.
You will cheer as Emilia, always the pushover, finally sprouts a backbone and stands up for herself. You will applaud Luciana as she grows into her own place of self-acceptance. You will absorb Poppy’s words of wisdom and hold them close to your heart.
The novel is compelling, emotional, and sincere. It is consuming and highly enjoyable.
I will confess, however, that The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany does feel a bit clichéd and predictable at times. And once again, much of the romance is of the dreaded, eye-rolling insta love variety. Yet the story is also surprising in many ways, and it takes a few unexpected turns, enough to offset the handful of inevitable plot points that can be seen a mile away.
But what will stick with me the most, I think – and compensates also for the slightly unoriginal narrative – is the overarching message of the novel. It’s a message that, to me, is universal. It is one that both men and women will appreciate. And it is this –
To live a full and happy life, romantic love and marriage are not prerequisites. Yet an opportunity to love, and to be loved, should never be squandered. Love is always worthy of at least a good looking-over, as Poppy would say.
To this sentiment, I could not agree more.
And on that note, off I go to enjoy a refreshing glass of chardonnay. You should treat yourself to your own glass, too, as you sit and read the beautiful novel that is The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany.
Cheers!
My sincerest appreciation to Berkley and Edelweiss+ for the Advance Review Copy. All opinions included herein are my own.
Bantering Books
December 26, 2021
dnf @ 40%
i'll talk about this more in a video in december, but i think for a book like this to work (one riddled with just about every genre cliche imaginable) the characters or the plot have to rock. neither was the case here. probably would have had a feel good ending but i didn't want to stick around to find out.
i'll talk about this more in a video in december, but i think for a book like this to work (one riddled with just about every genre cliche imaginable) the characters or the plot have to rock. neither was the case here. probably would have had a feel good ending but i didn't want to stick around to find out.
November 29, 2020
Family... Romance... regret... heart... hope... Lori Nelson Speilman swept me away to Italy and stole my heart with her vivid storytelling. For generations the second daughters of the Fontana family have been cursed, never to fall in love and get married. Emilia is resign to her fate, spending her days working in the family bakery and her nights at home with her cat. Lucy’s approach is a bit different, she spends all her energy trying to find a man and is constantly getting her heart stomped on. When the cousin’s Aunt Poppy reaches out to take the girls on an all expenses paid vacation to Italy they are intrigued. But their grandmother has not spoken to her sister Poppy in decades and forbids the girls to go to Italy. Unfortunately for grandma the allure of an Italian trip and the possibility of the curse being broken is too much. So Emilia and Lucy pack their bags and head to Italy. The food... the sights... the sounds... the smells... the family secrets... As The ladies travel around Italy Poppy begins to share the story of her romantic yet heartbreaking past.
I absolutely LOVED everything about this book! It is hands-down the best travel romance I have ever read. Sometimes when you read a book where travel is involved it can get really bogged down with descriptions of the food, and the sights, and all that. This book brought Italy alive, but the vivid descriptive writing did not detract anything from the gorgeous storyline. Emilia, Lucy, and poppy were such well developed characters with so much charm and heart as well as many insecurities and flaws. Most of the story takes place in current times, but we also got a generous sprinkling of flashbacks about Poppy’s lovestory. This is a story that will make you feel. I laughed, I cried, I got frustrated, I found joy. This is a can’t miss for anyone who loves the love.
This book in emojis 🐱 ✈️ 🍷 🎻 🇮🇹 ☔️ 🥑
*** Big thank you to Berkley for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
I absolutely LOVED everything about this book! It is hands-down the best travel romance I have ever read. Sometimes when you read a book where travel is involved it can get really bogged down with descriptions of the food, and the sights, and all that. This book brought Italy alive, but the vivid descriptive writing did not detract anything from the gorgeous storyline. Emilia, Lucy, and poppy were such well developed characters with so much charm and heart as well as many insecurities and flaws. Most of the story takes place in current times, but we also got a generous sprinkling of flashbacks about Poppy’s lovestory. This is a story that will make you feel. I laughed, I cried, I got frustrated, I found joy. This is a can’t miss for anyone who loves the love.
This book in emojis 🐱 ✈️ 🍷 🎻 🇮🇹 ☔️ 🥑
*** Big thank you to Berkley for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
January 14, 2022
This is a women's fiction. This book is mostly told by Emilia, but there are parts told by Aunt Poppy (past and now). The characters in this book are so much fun to follow, and they made you want to keep reading to find out what is going to happen to them. I loved the storyline/plot of this book. There is a big twist that is built up through out this whole book, but I did guessed it. Even if you guess the twist it is more about how the characters handle the twist then you guessing it. This book is about two sisters secrets coming out and forgiving each other. The cover of this book is just everything, and I love it so much.
I picked this book as an add on to my Book of the Month book. https://www.mybotm.com/zr12wnytgc8?sh...
I picked this book as an add on to my Book of the Month book. https://www.mybotm.com/zr12wnytgc8?sh...
November 16, 2020
I’m already a fan of Lori Nelson Spielman’s books, and this is her best yet.
How about that cover? Inside, the story is just as charming.
There’s a curse keeping two cousins and their great aunt from finding love. They take a trip to Italy determined that they’ll overcome the family hex. Traveling the canals of Venice to the vibrant Amalfi Coast, and everything in between, will love be found and what old secrets about this family will be uncovered?
LOVED the Italy setting and love love loved these characters. Nothing too heavy, a great escape sort of read with lots of charm and heart.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
How about that cover? Inside, the story is just as charming.
There’s a curse keeping two cousins and their great aunt from finding love. They take a trip to Italy determined that they’ll overcome the family hex. Traveling the canals of Venice to the vibrant Amalfi Coast, and everything in between, will love be found and what old secrets about this family will be uncovered?
LOVED the Italy setting and love love loved these characters. Nothing too heavy, a great escape sort of read with lots of charm and heart.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
September 20, 2021
I stumbled upon this book while looking for books to fit into one of my challenges. Though I am not faring well with these challenges but I am glad that I am doing these because if not for them, I hadn't read this one.
A family saga spanning generations where second born girls are cursed to never find love. An 80 year old such woman, Poppy, ropes in two of second daughters in her family and bring them to Italy to show them that there is no such curse. And they shouldn't hold themselves back thinking that they would never find love because they are cursed.
At first I didn't like Poppy's backstory but once it started to show how crucial this was to the current circumstances, I was hooked. She was portrayed as brave, outgoing, and full of life which Emilia, our other main lead, desperately need her in life. I loved how the author slowly revealed the secrets of the family and how it affected the Fontana family dimensions. Emilia and Lucy find themselves on this journey and it was good to see them standing upto their families who looked down on them, making them feel inferior because of this so called curse.
If you like to read family dramas then this book is for you.
A family saga spanning generations where second born girls are cursed to never find love. An 80 year old such woman, Poppy, ropes in two of second daughters in her family and bring them to Italy to show them that there is no such curse. And they shouldn't hold themselves back thinking that they would never find love because they are cursed.
At first I didn't like Poppy's backstory but once it started to show how crucial this was to the current circumstances, I was hooked. She was portrayed as brave, outgoing, and full of life which Emilia, our other main lead, desperately need her in life. I loved how the author slowly revealed the secrets of the family and how it affected the Fontana family dimensions. Emilia and Lucy find themselves on this journey and it was good to see them standing upto their families who looked down on them, making them feel inferior because of this so called curse.
If you like to read family dramas then this book is for you.
November 17, 2020
Find all of my reviews at: http://52bookminimum.blogspot.com/
This comes out today. If you're looking for an escape, maybe you can find it in Tuscany : )
3.5 Stars
The Fontana family has had a curse on the second-born daughters for over 200 years. Always to remain spinsters, true love will never be in the cards for them. Emilia has sort of resigned herself to the fact that the curse is a real thing as she remains consistently unlucky in love. Her cousin Lucy takes a different approach – quickly falling for whoever she is dating at the time. When their estranged aunt Poppy calls offering the two a trip to Italy and an opportunity to break the curse forever, they reluctantly agree.
I will admit I wanted this one as soon as I saw the cover, the word “Tuscany” and took a peak at the blurb. I had my hopes up for a cross between . . . . .
And . . . . .
And that is 100% what I got. Although I don’t live in an Italian villa, I was able to read this outside with a big ol’ cheap bottle of Moscato and escape for a few hours one Saturday and that was just what I needed.
ARC provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
This comes out today. If you're looking for an escape, maybe you can find it in Tuscany : )
3.5 Stars
The Fontana family has had a curse on the second-born daughters for over 200 years. Always to remain spinsters, true love will never be in the cards for them. Emilia has sort of resigned herself to the fact that the curse is a real thing as she remains consistently unlucky in love. Her cousin Lucy takes a different approach – quickly falling for whoever she is dating at the time. When their estranged aunt Poppy calls offering the two a trip to Italy and an opportunity to break the curse forever, they reluctantly agree.
I will admit I wanted this one as soon as I saw the cover, the word “Tuscany” and took a peak at the blurb. I had my hopes up for a cross between . . . . .
And . . . . .
And that is 100% what I got. Although I don’t live in an Italian villa, I was able to read this outside with a big ol’ cheap bottle of Moscato and escape for a few hours one Saturday and that was just what I needed.
ARC provided by Berkley in exchange for an honest review.
March 28, 2021
Summer 2019: three weeks in Italy, one of my favorite trip! This book made me travel back there... We can't go very far for the moment, but at least books allow us to escape reality for a while.
I really liked the setting and the premise of the old family curse (I can't help but wonder... would people really believe that?). I liked the characters, but some parts of the story were total clichés. The two storylines were equally interesting to me (Emi in the present / Poppy in the past), but it definitely dragged in the middle. Also, I'm not completely satisfied with the reveal of the family secret... I can't imagine the situation would go this far in reality.
All in all, it was a pretty decent read, but nothing was great. I preferred the two other books I read by this author. Read this book for its lovely Italy setting and for a sweet romance!
3.5* (first, I rounded my rating up, but five days later I realize I barely remember the ending... It touched me less than I thought!)
I really liked the setting and the premise of the old family curse (I can't help but wonder... would people really believe that?). I liked the characters, but some parts of the story were total clichés. The two storylines were equally interesting to me (Emi in the present / Poppy in the past), but it definitely dragged in the middle. Also, I'm not completely satisfied with the reveal of the family secret... I can't imagine the situation would go this far in reality.
All in all, it was a pretty decent read, but nothing was great. I preferred the two other books I read by this author. Read this book for its lovely Italy setting and for a sweet romance!
3.5* (first, I rounded my rating up, but five days later I realize I barely remember the ending... It touched me less than I thought!)
June 5, 2021
Best paired with a bowl of pasta and a glass of wine, The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany follows two cousins, Emilia and Lucy, invited to Italy by their great Aunt Poppy to celebrate her 80th birthday where she’ll reunite with the love of her life. Poppy is determined to show the girls the Fontana family’s Second Daughter Curse is just a myth and that they can find love after all.
I enjoyed traversing through Italy and learning more about the Fontana family’s history in The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany. What I didn’t like was Emilia’s family, who mostly all seemed very selfish and unsupportive. I was frustrated by her lack of standing up for herself but appreciated her character growth over time. I liked Poppy and really enjoyed the humor Lucy brought to the story.
I enjoyed traversing through Italy and learning more about the Fontana family’s history in The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany. What I didn’t like was Emilia’s family, who mostly all seemed very selfish and unsupportive. I was frustrated by her lack of standing up for herself but appreciated her character growth over time. I liked Poppy and really enjoyed the humor Lucy brought to the story.
February 5, 2021
Lori Nelson Spielman's newest book,
The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany
, serves up a healthy dose of family drama and secrets set against a gorgeous Italian backdrop.
For more than 200 years, there has been a curse in the Fontana family: no second-born daughter has ever found lasting love. Emilia tries not to let the idea of a curse bother her—sure, she wouldn't mind a companion, but she loves working as a baker at her family’s Italian deli and bakery, her Brooklyn neighborhood, and her family (sort of). But her cousin Lucy is weighed down by the curse and desperately tries to find luck with any man who pays her even the slightest bit attention. (Even those who don't.)
Emilia is shocked when her long-estranged great-aunt Poppy invites her and Lucy on an all-expense-paid trip to Italy. Poppy says they must make it to the Ravello Cathedral on her 80th birthday, where she will meet her true love, and the Fontana Family curse will be lifted. (Not that Poppy believes in the curse, but...)
Their grandmother, who raised Emilia and her sister, has forbidden anyone in the family to have contact with Poppy, over something that happened years and years before. But traveling to Italy has always been a dream for Emilia, and the idea of the curse being lifted is too powerful to give up (particularly for Lucy), so they disobey Nonna and join Poppy for the trip.
Of course, there are many family secrets that have been kept hidden for years, secrets that threaten to topple them all. Both Emilia and Lucy realize that they will need to make changes within themselves if they have any chance of happiness, and that may mean standing up for themselves for once. But will Poppy meet her true love? Will the curse be lifted? Will Emilia speak her mind?
The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany was a dramatic story, a story of love and loss and courage and family and secrets. I enjoyed the second half more than the first—I found most of the characters pretty frustrating for a while and I wished Emilia would stop being a doormat for everyone. But as Poppy shared her love story and the family secrets kept hidden, the beauty and emotion of the story overtook me.
Italy is a place I’ve not yet had the chance to travel to but Spielman’s imagery made me long for it. Hopefully I'll get there someday!!
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2020 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2021/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2020.html.
Check out my list of the best books of the last decade at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-favorite-books-of-decade.html.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
For more than 200 years, there has been a curse in the Fontana family: no second-born daughter has ever found lasting love. Emilia tries not to let the idea of a curse bother her—sure, she wouldn't mind a companion, but she loves working as a baker at her family’s Italian deli and bakery, her Brooklyn neighborhood, and her family (sort of). But her cousin Lucy is weighed down by the curse and desperately tries to find luck with any man who pays her even the slightest bit attention. (Even those who don't.)
Emilia is shocked when her long-estranged great-aunt Poppy invites her and Lucy on an all-expense-paid trip to Italy. Poppy says they must make it to the Ravello Cathedral on her 80th birthday, where she will meet her true love, and the Fontana Family curse will be lifted. (Not that Poppy believes in the curse, but...)
Their grandmother, who raised Emilia and her sister, has forbidden anyone in the family to have contact with Poppy, over something that happened years and years before. But traveling to Italy has always been a dream for Emilia, and the idea of the curse being lifted is too powerful to give up (particularly for Lucy), so they disobey Nonna and join Poppy for the trip.
Of course, there are many family secrets that have been kept hidden for years, secrets that threaten to topple them all. Both Emilia and Lucy realize that they will need to make changes within themselves if they have any chance of happiness, and that may mean standing up for themselves for once. But will Poppy meet her true love? Will the curse be lifted? Will Emilia speak her mind?
The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany was a dramatic story, a story of love and loss and courage and family and secrets. I enjoyed the second half more than the first—I found most of the characters pretty frustrating for a while and I wished Emilia would stop being a doormat for everyone. But as Poppy shared her love story and the family secrets kept hidden, the beauty and emotion of the story overtook me.
Italy is a place I’ve not yet had the chance to travel to but Spielman’s imagery made me long for it. Hopefully I'll get there someday!!
Check out my list of the best books I read in 2020 at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2021/01/the-best-books-i-read-in-2020.html.
Check out my list of the best books of the last decade at https://itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com/2020/01/my-favorite-books-of-decade.html.
See all of my reviews at itseithersadnessoreuphoria.blogspot.com.
Follow me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.bookishworld.of.yrralh/.
May 10, 2020
Meh. This wasn't for me. It's melodramatic and over-the-top in a very soap opera kind of way. While I can enjoy stories like that at times (a number of Beatriz Williams' books come to mind), I have to invest in the characters, and I didn't much like anybody in this book, although I'm sure the nerdy, bookish, jaded heroine was meant to appeal to someone like me. This is also one of those books that's all about forgiveness, and it's granted with nothing more than an apology (or even without one) to several people who absolutely don't deserve it. Yes, forgiveness is a good thing in general, but toxic people need to be cut out, and they don't inherently deserve forgiveness. I'm not into a story that romanticizes toxic people getting away with things scot free.
Details:
On the plus side, the narration of the audiobook is good, with a well-cast narrator for both Poppy and Emilia. The author merely reads a brief author's note.
Details:
On the plus side, the narration of the audiobook is good, with a well-cast narrator for both Poppy and Emilia. The author merely reads a brief author's note.
February 27, 2021
LOVED!
This is definitely a case of “do not judge a book by its cover!” I picked this up on a whim a few weeks ago after it was gathering dust on my shelves. My BOTM unread stack has been multiplying and I set a goal to read at least 1 BOTM each month for 2021.
Can I just say, I rarely ever mark books. I rarely ever tag passages. I couldn’t stop white I was reading Star-Crossed. I was so moved by the beautiful passages and depth of insight.
This is the perfect mixture of adventure, female friendships, and romance. The story follows Lucy and her great-aunt Poppy, along with her cousin Emilia, traveling in Italy to try and break their family curse that seems to have effected the second daughters in their family for generations. Poppy slowly tells the girls about her past, which came about in a dual storyline that turned out to be *chefs kiss,* beautiful!
I don’t want to say much more except Star-Crossed was an absolute delight. Highly recommend!!!
This is definitely a case of “do not judge a book by its cover!” I picked this up on a whim a few weeks ago after it was gathering dust on my shelves. My BOTM unread stack has been multiplying and I set a goal to read at least 1 BOTM each month for 2021.
Can I just say, I rarely ever mark books. I rarely ever tag passages. I couldn’t stop white I was reading Star-Crossed. I was so moved by the beautiful passages and depth of insight.
This is the perfect mixture of adventure, female friendships, and romance. The story follows Lucy and her great-aunt Poppy, along with her cousin Emilia, traveling in Italy to try and break their family curse that seems to have effected the second daughters in their family for generations. Poppy slowly tells the girls about her past, which came about in a dual storyline that turned out to be *chefs kiss,* beautiful!
I don’t want to say much more except Star-Crossed was an absolute delight. Highly recommend!!!
March 15, 2020
What an amazing story. Deep dark family secrets are not what they seem to be.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Have you ever read a story that just makes your heart sing? A story that is so rich and warm you just want it to go on forever? The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany is that book.
Speilman gifts her readers with an amazing story that crosses generations and completely pulls you in. From New York to Italy, The Berlin Wall to a tiny church in Ravello, we hear a story about a love so profound it can cross the ages.
With tears a plenty, we meet the characters who are so different and unique you can’t help but be entranced by their story. Spielman delves deep into the human psyche with shades of manipulation, jealously, heartbreak, profound love, and more. We meet characters we love and those we love to hate. Those deep dark family secrets are so much more than what they seem.
I just wanted this book to keep going. I wanted more for Poppy. I want to know what happens to Emilia. I just want more!
For an amazing story that will leave you with a warm heart and a bit weepy too, this book is one that will set the mark for those yet to come. Speilman brings it with her storytelling skills and the colorful, rich experience we are left with once we close the pages. The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany truly does make our heart sing.
* copy received for review consideration
Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-star-cro...
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Have you ever read a story that just makes your heart sing? A story that is so rich and warm you just want it to go on forever? The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany is that book.
Speilman gifts her readers with an amazing story that crosses generations and completely pulls you in. From New York to Italy, The Berlin Wall to a tiny church in Ravello, we hear a story about a love so profound it can cross the ages.
With tears a plenty, we meet the characters who are so different and unique you can’t help but be entranced by their story. Spielman delves deep into the human psyche with shades of manipulation, jealously, heartbreak, profound love, and more. We meet characters we love and those we love to hate. Those deep dark family secrets are so much more than what they seem.
I just wanted this book to keep going. I wanted more for Poppy. I want to know what happens to Emilia. I just want more!
For an amazing story that will leave you with a warm heart and a bit weepy too, this book is one that will set the mark for those yet to come. Speilman brings it with her storytelling skills and the colorful, rich experience we are left with once we close the pages. The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany truly does make our heart sing.
* copy received for review consideration
Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/the-star-cro...
November 17, 2020
I don't understand the rave reviews. The story was cute, but the cliches in this book were cringeworthy. Most of it takes place present day, but- from the ugly duckling sister forced to hide in the kitchen when an attractive man wants to meet her to compliment her baking, to the uncle who loves opera and biscotti, it's one Italian cliche after another. And the dialogue is stilted: The grandmother doesn't want Emmie to go to Italy. Emmie, who has never gone anywhere or done anything other than be a slave to the family is 29 years old! Emmie's sister agrees with the grandmother "she has her reasons, we need to respect that." A mother doesn't want her 20 year old daughter to go on an all expenses paid trip to Italy for 10 days with relatives: "What are you thinking, Luciana, leaving your new beau to go traveling? You'll ruin your chance." The tough talking 20 year old (if you read the book you'll find out why she's such a cliche) calls her 79 year old aunt an "old coot." One more example: "Igancio is a solid man. He is willing to take you for his wife, and you, a second daughter no less. How dare you squander this opportunity you selfish fool. You must stop this nonsense now." Did people ever talk like this?
February 14, 2021
One and a half stars.
Sometimes you just end up wondering if you read the same book as everyone else. This book has had a lot of glowing reviews but it didn’t work for me. The main characters Aunt Poppy,Emilia and Lucy are one dimensional and cliched. The whole curse thing just felt ridiculous and the family dynamics never came across as real to this reader. The plot and the way it played out felt contrived. Several times I thought about not finishing the book. In the end I did but found myself skimming because it just seemed to drag on.
Unlike the previous book I had read which thoroughly involved me, this one left me uninvolved and just feeling like a spectator on the sidelines these women’s lives. I found it difficult to relate to any of it. However this is a personal opinion and I know others have loved it so maybe it is one of those books you need to try and make up your own mind.
Sometimes you just end up wondering if you read the same book as everyone else. This book has had a lot of glowing reviews but it didn’t work for me. The main characters Aunt Poppy,Emilia and Lucy are one dimensional and cliched. The whole curse thing just felt ridiculous and the family dynamics never came across as real to this reader. The plot and the way it played out felt contrived. Several times I thought about not finishing the book. In the end I did but found myself skimming because it just seemed to drag on.
Unlike the previous book I had read which thoroughly involved me, this one left me uninvolved and just feeling like a spectator on the sidelines these women’s lives. I found it difficult to relate to any of it. However this is a personal opinion and I know others have loved it so maybe it is one of those books you need to try and make up your own mind.
November 16, 2020
I love when a story can sneak right up to you and punch you in the feels and take your breath away. When you aren't expecting much of anything and yet get everything.
Such a beautifully heartbreaking tale told in a back and forth pattern of the then and the now of a family as it has both overcome and succumbed to old prejudices, curses, and struggles from a time and place when women still had very little to say in what their life would be like. A story of three strong women trying to overcome family dynamics, world issues, heartbreak and most of all, trying to make a way in this very confusing world with nothing but each other.
This story spoke to me, made me feel and completely enchanted me with its tale.
*ARC provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
June 6, 2019
I sat down with an early ARC of The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany on a lovely sunny afternoon and couldn't stop reading. Needless to say, dinner was late at our house... When Emilia and her cousin set off to break the curse of loveless second sisters under the guidance of her great-aunt, she discovers far more about her family than simple curses. Lori Nelson Spielman's deft and tender touch illuminates a glorious journey through Italy, and the heart. The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany is unflinchingly honest about the frailty of human desires, as Emilia encounters estrangement, lies, and betrayal, yet treats them with grace and forgiveness. It's a wonderful balance between the darkness of the human heart, and the irrepressible optimism of love and adventure at any age. Filled with humor and wisdom, this is a celebration of life, and love.
May 11, 2020
Book Reviewed on www.whisperingstories.com
There was a curse put upon the Fontana second-born daughters which has come true for generations gone meaning that the second born daughters will not find love. For cousins Lucy and Emilia who are the second-born they really hope that the curse isn’t real, however, they also haven’t found love as yet.
When their elderly Aunt Poppy invited them to go travelling with her in Italy the women are desperate to go but have some hurdles to get over first.
Could Poppy be the one to help them break the curse and can the women find love or will they be another statistic on their family tree?
I seem to be having a run of books set in Italy at the moment, which is good as I visited the country for the first time back at the beginning of February. What I first noticed about One Italian Summer is how easy to read it was. The book captivated me, especially once we are within Italy and all the atmospheric sights, sounds, and smells are brought to the forefront. It also has a remarkable cast of characters that you just can’t help liking.
The plot moves back and forth in time and not only covers romance, love, loss, and disputes it also shines a light on what is deemed to be a curse put on the Fontana second-born daughters for generations.
The story is told from two family members point of views, Emilia (including Lucy), and Aunt Poppy who has invited the girls to Italy to go travelling with her and to end their journey with celebrations for her eightieth birthday. The book also moves back and forth in time.
I became so engrossed in the plot that the time just seemed to slip away. Spending all my hours at home at the moment because of the virus meant that I could relax in my garden with the book and just read away, although it did feel like I was there travelling with the women. The characters all worked well together and I loved their adventures and little secrets. I was also desperate to know what had gone on in the lives of Poppy and her sister to leave them not on speaking terms for decades.
This is a book that had me rooting for the women, I wanted them to find happiness and love as well as become more self-aware and confident. It is a beautiful read and I loved every minute of it.
There was a curse put upon the Fontana second-born daughters which has come true for generations gone meaning that the second born daughters will not find love. For cousins Lucy and Emilia who are the second-born they really hope that the curse isn’t real, however, they also haven’t found love as yet.
When their elderly Aunt Poppy invited them to go travelling with her in Italy the women are desperate to go but have some hurdles to get over first.
Could Poppy be the one to help them break the curse and can the women find love or will they be another statistic on their family tree?
I seem to be having a run of books set in Italy at the moment, which is good as I visited the country for the first time back at the beginning of February. What I first noticed about One Italian Summer is how easy to read it was. The book captivated me, especially once we are within Italy and all the atmospheric sights, sounds, and smells are brought to the forefront. It also has a remarkable cast of characters that you just can’t help liking.
The plot moves back and forth in time and not only covers romance, love, loss, and disputes it also shines a light on what is deemed to be a curse put on the Fontana second-born daughters for generations.
The story is told from two family members point of views, Emilia (including Lucy), and Aunt Poppy who has invited the girls to Italy to go travelling with her and to end their journey with celebrations for her eightieth birthday. The book also moves back and forth in time.
I became so engrossed in the plot that the time just seemed to slip away. Spending all my hours at home at the moment because of the virus meant that I could relax in my garden with the book and just read away, although it did feel like I was there travelling with the women. The characters all worked well together and I loved their adventures and little secrets. I was also desperate to know what had gone on in the lives of Poppy and her sister to leave them not on speaking terms for decades.
This is a book that had me rooting for the women, I wanted them to find happiness and love as well as become more self-aware and confident. It is a beautiful read and I loved every minute of it.
December 21, 2024
Family. Secrets. Heart. Hope. Italy.
A family saga spanning generations.
It might take a while, but in the end, there is a sweetness about the reveal.
A family saga spanning generations.
It might take a while, but in the end, there is a sweetness about the reveal.
November 30, 2020
DNF at 28%. Fat shaming, slut shaming, filled with unlikable characters and topped off with dialogue so cringe, it might as well have been 400 pages of “Live, laugh, love”. Ugh.
November 11, 2021
Honestly, I'm surprised this book has such a high rating.
The story was decent, and Poppy was magic... I absolutely loved her. On the other side though, Lucy was beyond obnoxious. I hated her, hated Daria, hated Rosa, and even Emilia was such a wimp it honestly took away from the enjoyment of the book.
The story between Rico and Poppy was great, but the rest, eh.
The story was decent, and Poppy was magic... I absolutely loved her. On the other side though, Lucy was beyond obnoxious. I hated her, hated Daria, hated Rosa, and even Emilia was such a wimp it honestly took away from the enjoyment of the book.
The story between Rico and Poppy was great, but the rest, eh.
November 17, 2020
Emilia is one of the many cursed, second-born daughters of the Fontana Family who are said will never be able to find love.
Emilia took this seriously because for generations, that seems to be what has happened.
Emilia's Aunt Paolina not only didn't find love, but she was ostracized from the family by her sister, and no one would tell why.
When Paolina asks Emilia to go to Italy with her, Emilia is torn between family loyalty and what she knows could be the chance of a lifetime.
I loved THE STAR-CROSSED SISTERS OF TUSCANY from the first page when I saw those beautiful Italian names and the mention of delicious food.
The magic and fun never stopped as we listened to Aunt Paolina tell her story and as we enjoyed Italy through the eyes of the characters.
The characters were the best - especially Aunt Paolina.
THE STAR-CROSSED SISTERS OF TUSCANY is a delightful, pick-you-up and a book that will keep the characters in mind even after you turn the last page.
It sounds like a full romance, but it is not.
THE STAR-CROSSED SISTERS OF TUSCANY is a heartfelt, extraordinary read that makes you realize it’s never too late to follow your dreams.
It is about family and living your life to the fullest and loving like there’s no tomorrow.
And...if you like secrets, there is a huge family one that gets uncovered. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Emilia took this seriously because for generations, that seems to be what has happened.
Emilia's Aunt Paolina not only didn't find love, but she was ostracized from the family by her sister, and no one would tell why.
When Paolina asks Emilia to go to Italy with her, Emilia is torn between family loyalty and what she knows could be the chance of a lifetime.
I loved THE STAR-CROSSED SISTERS OF TUSCANY from the first page when I saw those beautiful Italian names and the mention of delicious food.
The magic and fun never stopped as we listened to Aunt Paolina tell her story and as we enjoyed Italy through the eyes of the characters.
The characters were the best - especially Aunt Paolina.
THE STAR-CROSSED SISTERS OF TUSCANY is a delightful, pick-you-up and a book that will keep the characters in mind even after you turn the last page.
It sounds like a full romance, but it is not.
THE STAR-CROSSED SISTERS OF TUSCANY is a heartfelt, extraordinary read that makes you realize it’s never too late to follow your dreams.
It is about family and living your life to the fullest and loving like there’s no tomorrow.
And...if you like secrets, there is a huge family one that gets uncovered. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 24, 2020
DNF. Page 176.
I must be one of the very few people that did not enjoy this book. I tried, and then I decided the effort just wasn't worth it. The author wrote about Italy, but tried to cram in as much information about a place as possible. Rather than paint a scene - the sounds of a piazza, the slippery tile outside the Doge's palace as the water rises each day, the occasional smell of trash in Venice - she crams in historical information about the Doge's palace as if Poppy is a well-versed tour guide of every tourist attraction in Italy. It felt forced, like the author had never visited Italy, but looked a Google maps and tried to make the reader feel like they were in Italy.
And then there are the characters. There is no nuance. Lucy is in-your-face, obnoxious and Emilia is boring. They stick to their personality traits because they are not complex. Their family is written with the same lack of nuance - heavy-handed, manipulative - to the point of being tedious. And I suppose in the end, I'm sure each character has their awakening where they live their best life, but frankly, I lost interest.
I must be one of the very few people that did not enjoy this book. I tried, and then I decided the effort just wasn't worth it. The author wrote about Italy, but tried to cram in as much information about a place as possible. Rather than paint a scene - the sounds of a piazza, the slippery tile outside the Doge's palace as the water rises each day, the occasional smell of trash in Venice - she crams in historical information about the Doge's palace as if Poppy is a well-versed tour guide of every tourist attraction in Italy. It felt forced, like the author had never visited Italy, but looked a Google maps and tried to make the reader feel like they were in Italy.
And then there are the characters. There is no nuance. Lucy is in-your-face, obnoxious and Emilia is boring. They stick to their personality traits because they are not complex. Their family is written with the same lack of nuance - heavy-handed, manipulative - to the point of being tedious. And I suppose in the end, I'm sure each character has their awakening where they live their best life, but frankly, I lost interest.
January 12, 2021
The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany by Lori Nelson Spielman was a fantastic read! I could not have read this book at a more perfect time, personally; I feel like I just went to Italy and witnessed the becoming of three fabulous women. Provided we're almost a year into a global pandemic, a trip to Italy sounds pretty freaking fantastical right about now.
The scenes, landscapes and cultural descriptions are beautifully and intricately described. The characters are complex with all kinds of unique qualities making them feel real and relatable. I instantly became attached to some character and grew full of disdain for others. Spielman skillfully crafted this narrative with nicely tempoed dialogue and some surprising twists. Tension is created and released, and the feelings the characters have are realistic. Some of the plot is a bit too perfect but I honestly didn't mind because it was such a feel good story!
I can honestly say that I went into this book totally blind. I barely knew what it was about - sisters & Tuscany - that's about all I knew. But I came out of this story touched and feeling super happy for the characters. I love this book!
The scenes, landscapes and cultural descriptions are beautifully and intricately described. The characters are complex with all kinds of unique qualities making them feel real and relatable. I instantly became attached to some character and grew full of disdain for others. Spielman skillfully crafted this narrative with nicely tempoed dialogue and some surprising twists. Tension is created and released, and the feelings the characters have are realistic. Some of the plot is a bit too perfect but I honestly didn't mind because it was such a feel good story!
I can honestly say that I went into this book totally blind. I barely knew what it was about - sisters & Tuscany - that's about all I knew. But I came out of this story touched and feeling super happy for the characters. I love this book!
May 1, 2020
Fancy an escape? Dreaming of sunnier climes? Lusting for romance? This book ticks all of the boxes.
Such an easy five stars to award. I fell in love with Poppy from when she is first introduced and could happily picture her and her flamboyant ways. Her “Poppy-isms” made her wise and it was fascinating to see her behaviours rub off onto Lucy and Emilia. Whilst they appear such opposing characters who would never normally mix, the leap of faith that both girls take when they accompany Poppy reflects the novel’s mantra of not accepting that anything is impossible.
A dual-narrative love story, we follow Poppy, Lucy and Emilia as they travel around Italy. Poppy is approaching her eightieth birthday and is determined to reconnect with her long-lost love. On the other hand, Emilia and Lucy are keen to see the family curse – being doomed to singleton status forever – finally broken.
Poppy’s story isn’t massive and I liked the way the writer trickled it through the story. It made me love her character even more, and the heartache she experiences means she became my adopted aunt throughout her journey. I wanted to meet Poppy and felt envious of the experiences that Lucy and Emilia were able to share with her.
Whilst this story carries a message of love and hope, it is impossible to ignore the sadness that runs through. The lack of identity that Emilia suffers, Lucy’s instability and Poppy’s loss all connect the women, even though the younger generation do not realise it. I wanted each of the women to find happiness and overcome their personal troubles and appreciated how the writer handles each character’s turmoils.
This is going to be up there with one of my favourite reads of the summer, if not the year. It left me with a satisfying smile when I had read the final pages and wished that I could carry on with the three women’s journeys. In fact, I think this quote perfectly summarises the premise of this novel, as spoken by Emilia:
‘Love, in any of its forms, takes the world from a bleak pencil sketch to a magnificent oil painting.’
With thanks to Avon books and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Such an easy five stars to award. I fell in love with Poppy from when she is first introduced and could happily picture her and her flamboyant ways. Her “Poppy-isms” made her wise and it was fascinating to see her behaviours rub off onto Lucy and Emilia. Whilst they appear such opposing characters who would never normally mix, the leap of faith that both girls take when they accompany Poppy reflects the novel’s mantra of not accepting that anything is impossible.
A dual-narrative love story, we follow Poppy, Lucy and Emilia as they travel around Italy. Poppy is approaching her eightieth birthday and is determined to reconnect with her long-lost love. On the other hand, Emilia and Lucy are keen to see the family curse – being doomed to singleton status forever – finally broken.
Poppy’s story isn’t massive and I liked the way the writer trickled it through the story. It made me love her character even more, and the heartache she experiences means she became my adopted aunt throughout her journey. I wanted to meet Poppy and felt envious of the experiences that Lucy and Emilia were able to share with her.
Whilst this story carries a message of love and hope, it is impossible to ignore the sadness that runs through. The lack of identity that Emilia suffers, Lucy’s instability and Poppy’s loss all connect the women, even though the younger generation do not realise it. I wanted each of the women to find happiness and overcome their personal troubles and appreciated how the writer handles each character’s turmoils.
This is going to be up there with one of my favourite reads of the summer, if not the year. It left me with a satisfying smile when I had read the final pages and wished that I could carry on with the three women’s journeys. In fact, I think this quote perfectly summarises the premise of this novel, as spoken by Emilia:
‘Love, in any of its forms, takes the world from a bleak pencil sketch to a magnificent oil painting.’
With thanks to Avon books and Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
January 27, 2020
I really enjoyed Lori Nelson Spielman's first two novels, so I was excited to hear that she was publishing another one and couldn't wait to get my hands on it. I'm so glad she wrote The Star-Crossed Sisters of Tuscany because it was an absolute delight.
The entire novel was incredibly good and so easy to devour. I loved both Emilia and Poppy's stories. I wish Lucy had gotten to share her own perspective through a narrative, but I still enjoyed getting to know her through Emilia's eyes. I thought I had guessed a plot point, but it went in a different direction than I was expecting, even though I was right about part of it. I liked that I was still kept in the dark for the most part and surprised later on. Lori's descriptions of Italy are amazing and she made me want to travel there. The family dynamics were interesting in their complexity.
This story was heartfelt and ultimately satisfying, like a bowl of delicious gelato. It has set the bar for my 2020 reading and I can't stop recommending it!
Movie casting ideas:
Emilia: Anna Popplewell
Lucy: Sistine Rose Stallone
Poppy (present): Sophia Loren
Poppy 1960: Mimi Keene
Gabe: Giulio Berruti
Matt: Noah Centineo
Sofia: Marianna Di Martino
Rico 1960: Luke Benward
The entire novel was incredibly good and so easy to devour. I loved both Emilia and Poppy's stories. I wish Lucy had gotten to share her own perspective through a narrative, but I still enjoyed getting to know her through Emilia's eyes. I thought I had guessed a plot point, but it went in a different direction than I was expecting, even though I was right about part of it. I liked that I was still kept in the dark for the most part and surprised later on. Lori's descriptions of Italy are amazing and she made me want to travel there. The family dynamics were interesting in their complexity.
This story was heartfelt and ultimately satisfying, like a bowl of delicious gelato. It has set the bar for my 2020 reading and I can't stop recommending it!
Movie casting ideas:
Emilia: Anna Popplewell
Lucy: Sistine Rose Stallone
Poppy (present): Sophia Loren
Poppy 1960: Mimi Keene
Gabe: Giulio Berruti
Matt: Noah Centineo
Sofia: Marianna Di Martino
Rico 1960: Luke Benward
November 11, 2019
I hate to start a rave review with a negative but I kinda loathe the title and here's why: this book title conveys nothing of the depth of emotion, story, and change that occurs in this awesome novel. This title sounds frivolous and silly and this book is anything but that. This is, on one level, a sweet romance but it is also so, so much more. This book literally made me sob, I was so invested in the characters and their stories. There is some deep brilliant advice in here. Advice I had to stop and re-read several times. There is humor and drama and family and LOTS of evocative Italian countryside and food and language. This is a beautiful book is so many ways and I heartily, fully, recommend it. PERFETTO!
May 23, 2021
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Wow. Holy mother of Mary—wow. This book took me awhile to get into, I won’t lie. However, once I hit page 200 or so it was IMPOSSIBLE for me to put it down. It’s a great domestic fiction book so there’s no angst or romance, just bonding and going through the motions of finding your inner self and well, self discovery. All the characters take part on this discovery. Emilia and Lucy are the main stars and they have so much character development it is really great to see them becoming their true selves with the help of good ol amazing “aunt” Poppy. Poppy and Rico’s love story is absolutely swoon worthy and makes you believe in honest to goodness true love. Starts in Brooklyn NY though 75% of the story is in Italy. I learned so much about the atmosphere and culture of Italy and the towns and cities that I cannot wait to hopefully one day visit. There’s a few tear enduring moments which don’t come often for me with books in this genre but I WAS HERE FOR IT! It was just amazing, please please pleaseeee read it if it’s on your TBR! I’m so upset I waited to long!
Wow. Holy mother of Mary—wow. This book took me awhile to get into, I won’t lie. However, once I hit page 200 or so it was IMPOSSIBLE for me to put it down. It’s a great domestic fiction book so there’s no angst or romance, just bonding and going through the motions of finding your inner self and well, self discovery. All the characters take part on this discovery. Emilia and Lucy are the main stars and they have so much character development it is really great to see them becoming their true selves with the help of good ol amazing “aunt” Poppy. Poppy and Rico’s love story is absolutely swoon worthy and makes you believe in honest to goodness true love. Starts in Brooklyn NY though 75% of the story is in Italy. I learned so much about the atmosphere and culture of Italy and the towns and cities that I cannot wait to hopefully one day visit. There’s a few tear enduring moments which don’t come often for me with books in this genre but I WAS HERE FOR IT! It was just amazing, please please pleaseeee read it if it’s on your TBR! I’m so upset I waited to long!
January 15, 2021
Unpopular opinion, as this book was just not for me.
- really cheesy. like... really cheesy.
- did not like the main character, she had no personality (other than clingy) and was really wishy-washy.
- somehow both too long and severely underdeveloped.
- lots of cliches, predictable ending
- every character other than Poppy & Rico sucked.
- dialogue was.. oof. unrealistic, not fun to read.
- really strongly disliked the first half of this book, and should've DNFed (I was told the ending was better, which technically it was... but not by much).
- ending was emotionally manipulative and heavy handed.
- Old Poppy spoke almost exclusively in life lessons. okay, we get it, Zany Old Lady has WisdomTM!!
- why was Lucy in this book at all?
Overall, good concept, poor execution.
- really cheesy. like... really cheesy.
- did not like the main character, she had no personality (other than clingy) and was really wishy-washy.
- somehow both too long and severely underdeveloped.
- lots of cliches, predictable ending
- every character other than Poppy & Rico sucked.
- dialogue was.. oof. unrealistic, not fun to read.
- really strongly disliked the first half of this book, and should've DNFed (I was told the ending was better, which technically it was... but not by much).
- ending was emotionally manipulative and heavy handed.
- Old Poppy spoke almost exclusively in life lessons. okay, we get it, Zany Old Lady has WisdomTM!!
- why was Lucy in this book at all?
Overall, good concept, poor execution.
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