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Alles, was ich dir wünsche
Vor neun Monaten hat Künstlerin Mia Moretti den Krebs besiegt, doch seitdem kann sie nicht mehr malen. Die Angst und Dunkelheit in ihr sind zu stark. Was Mia braucht ist ein Neuanfang. Deshalb zögert sie keinen Moment, als sie die Möglichkeit bekommt, in die Toskana zu reisen - das Land ihrer Großeltern. Kaum in Florenz angekommen, entführt ihre lebensfrohe WG-Mitbewohnerin Mia in die Leichtigkeit des italienischen Lebens. Und dann trifft Mia Luca, mit seinem warmen, ansteckenden Lächeln und diesem unerschütterlichen Optimismus. Luca scheint der Richtige für Mia zu sein. Er schenkt ihr neuen Mut, bis ihr das Leben grausam erneut einen Strich durch die Rechnung macht.
352 pages, Paperback
Published June 23, 2020
80 people are currently reading
690 people want to read
About the author
Vanessa Carnevale
8 books160 followersVanessa Carnevale is an Australian author of women's fiction. She is also the host of Your Beautiful Writing Life retreats held in Tuscany and Australia.
Vanessa loves to travel, and spent several years living in Florence, Italy, a place she considers her second home. She lives in Australia with her husband and two children.
Her previous novels, THE MEMORIES OF US and THE FLORENTINE BRIDGE are published by HarperCollins and have been translated into German and Slovenian. Vanessa's third novel, MY LIFE FOR YOURS will be published by Bookouture in August 2020.
You can connect with Vanessa on Instagram and Facebook or via her website: www.vanessacarnevale.com
Vanessa loves to travel, and spent several years living in Florence, Italy, a place she considers her second home. She lives in Australia with her husband and two children.
Her previous novels, THE MEMORIES OF US and THE FLORENTINE BRIDGE are published by HarperCollins and have been translated into German and Slovenian. Vanessa's third novel, MY LIFE FOR YOURS will be published by Bookouture in August 2020.
You can connect with Vanessa on Instagram and Facebook or via her website: www.vanessacarnevale.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 121 reviews
October 6, 2018
Mia Moretti is a young Australian artist and for the last nine months she's been fighting the greatest battle of her life. Her struggle with cancer has taken its toll on Mia physically and mentally. Sadly, her love for painting had taken a back seat since her sickness and now that she was feeling better she thought the desire to paint again would return, but it hasn't.
When an opportunity comes Mia's way to travel to another country she decides this might be exactly what she needs to get her back to painting again. Italy has such beautiful landscapes and buildings this was sure to get Mia back to her love of painting. Meeting the handsome Italian mechanic, Luca was never in Mia's plans and before she knew it, she was letting her guard down something she promised herself she wouldn't do. Luca showed Mia all the beautiful sites of the area as well as introducing her to friends and family. Can the handsome and charming Luca inspire Mia to paint again or will her artistic skills be lost forever?
Oh my goodness, what's not to like about this BRILLIANT story. The plot line in this story just sweeps you up and carries you away to another world. In case you haven't worked it out yet I ABSOLUTELY LOVED this book. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
When an opportunity comes Mia's way to travel to another country she decides this might be exactly what she needs to get her back to painting again. Italy has such beautiful landscapes and buildings this was sure to get Mia back to her love of painting. Meeting the handsome Italian mechanic, Luca was never in Mia's plans and before she knew it, she was letting her guard down something she promised herself she wouldn't do. Luca showed Mia all the beautiful sites of the area as well as introducing her to friends and family. Can the handsome and charming Luca inspire Mia to paint again or will her artistic skills be lost forever?
Oh my goodness, what's not to like about this BRILLIANT story. The plot line in this story just sweeps you up and carries you away to another world. In case you haven't worked it out yet I ABSOLUTELY LOVED this book. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED.
December 10, 2016
Absolutely exceptional! Breathtaking; beautiful; heartbreaking and outstanding!
When Mia Moretti arrived in Florence, she was unsure of her feelings. Her confidence was at an all-time low, but she was in remission – had been for nine months. She loved her parents back in Melbourne, Australia, but had felt the need to recover her old self on her own. The apartment she was to share with Stella was a two storey wonder of architecture – the friends who surrounded Stella immediately included Mia into their lives.
Mia’s depression was slow to lift – she was unable to paint; her artistry had left her and she had no idea how to get it back. When Mia met Luca, he showed her how to feel again. Gradually his zest for life, his gentle friendship and beautiful smile let Mia open her heart once again. And she found herself once more able to paint...
As Mia and Luca explored the famous Italian landscape, the coastline and small towns, the happiness they felt together was absolute. Holidaying on the Amalfi Coast, crossing wishes from bucket lists – the past was a long way behind Mia. Nothing could possibly go wrong – could it?
The Florentine Bridge by Aussie author Vanessa Carnevale is a masterpiece of writing! The story is tender and gentle, the gradual romance the same. I have never read a novel like this one before, and it is now firmly in my best reads for 2016. The author painted incredible word pictures – I haven't been to Italy, but now, I’d love to go just to walk where Mia and Luca walked. Filled with emotion, hope and love, The Florentine Bridge is one I highly recommend, and one I’m so glad I read. I love the cover too :)
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy to read and review.
When Mia Moretti arrived in Florence, she was unsure of her feelings. Her confidence was at an all-time low, but she was in remission – had been for nine months. She loved her parents back in Melbourne, Australia, but had felt the need to recover her old self on her own. The apartment she was to share with Stella was a two storey wonder of architecture – the friends who surrounded Stella immediately included Mia into their lives.
Mia’s depression was slow to lift – she was unable to paint; her artistry had left her and she had no idea how to get it back. When Mia met Luca, he showed her how to feel again. Gradually his zest for life, his gentle friendship and beautiful smile let Mia open her heart once again. And she found herself once more able to paint...
As Mia and Luca explored the famous Italian landscape, the coastline and small towns, the happiness they felt together was absolute. Holidaying on the Amalfi Coast, crossing wishes from bucket lists – the past was a long way behind Mia. Nothing could possibly go wrong – could it?
The Florentine Bridge by Aussie author Vanessa Carnevale is a masterpiece of writing! The story is tender and gentle, the gradual romance the same. I have never read a novel like this one before, and it is now firmly in my best reads for 2016. The author painted incredible word pictures – I haven't been to Italy, but now, I’d love to go just to walk where Mia and Luca walked. Filled with emotion, hope and love, The Florentine Bridge is one I highly recommend, and one I’m so glad I read. I love the cover too :)
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy to read and review.
April 18, 2017
Four and a half stars.
Though nineteen year old Australia Mia Moretti has been cancer free for nine months, it has not stopped the fears that haunt her days and nights. Fear of the cancer returning has taken such a hold on her that she can no longer paint. When an opportunity arises to travel to Tuscany she jumps at the chance, hoping it will get her life and art back on track. Her parents understandably worry, but let her go knowing this is something she needs to do. In Tuscany Mia meets more than she bargained for. She meets openhearted people and also Luca. For much of the book this seems like a sweet young love story. It is also about overcoming fear and learning to hope. Then the unthinkable happens? Will this latest tragedy stop Mia in her tracks or will she able to work through it? And what about Luca? Does he have a role in her future?
Sure, Mia behaves like a nineteen year old some of the time, but she is very likable. I also liked Luca and some of the minor characters, which include Mia’s parents, Signor Fiorelli, an elderly artist, Clara and several others. One of the major characters is this book is the setting. I am not likely to ever visit Italy but I would easily see the places mentioned because of the way they are described. It all sounds as beautiful as the cover depicts it. This is more than just a love story, it is a story about fear and hope, about family and friends and the role they have to play in shaping a person and supporting in hard times. It is a delightful and engaging read that had me up till late last night because I simply hard to find out what happened.
Though nineteen year old Australia Mia Moretti has been cancer free for nine months, it has not stopped the fears that haunt her days and nights. Fear of the cancer returning has taken such a hold on her that she can no longer paint. When an opportunity arises to travel to Tuscany she jumps at the chance, hoping it will get her life and art back on track. Her parents understandably worry, but let her go knowing this is something she needs to do. In Tuscany Mia meets more than she bargained for. She meets openhearted people and also Luca. For much of the book this seems like a sweet young love story. It is also about overcoming fear and learning to hope. Then the unthinkable happens? Will this latest tragedy stop Mia in her tracks or will she able to work through it? And what about Luca? Does he have a role in her future?
Sure, Mia behaves like a nineteen year old some of the time, but she is very likable. I also liked Luca and some of the minor characters, which include Mia’s parents, Signor Fiorelli, an elderly artist, Clara and several others. One of the major characters is this book is the setting. I am not likely to ever visit Italy but I would easily see the places mentioned because of the way they are described. It all sounds as beautiful as the cover depicts it. This is more than just a love story, it is a story about fear and hope, about family and friends and the role they have to play in shaping a person and supporting in hard times. It is a delightful and engaging read that had me up till late last night because I simply hard to find out what happened.
December 31, 2025
Debut Australian author Vanessa Carnevale bursts onto the writing scene with her stunning contemporary romance novel, The Florentine Bridge. Set against the magnificent locale of Florence, Italy and surrounds, it is a gentle story that explores one inspiring young Australian woman’s passage to overcome illness, self doubt and find love.
Nineteen year old Mia is a promising artist, who hails from Melbourne, Australia. Mia has recently overcome a battle with cancer. Trying to find meaning in her life, Mia heads to the other side of the world, to Florence, Italy, where she hopes to reignite her passion for painting. When she arrives in a small village on the outskirts of Florence, Mia soon realises moving and starting anew is not an easy process. She does manage to build some trusting acquaintances, which assists her move. Despite the spectacular setting, the perfect muse to get her painting on track, Mia lacks the urge to put brush to paper. When a handsome and understanding young man named Luca enters her life, Mia’s world in Florence immediately changes. Mia’s relationship with Luca is the catalyst that sparks her return to painting. Enjoying love, life and the rich culture of Italy with Luca by her side, things couldn’t be better for Mia. However, Mia and Luca’s new found love for one another is put to the test, when life deals them both situations that will challenge their strength, both as a couple and an individual.
I have had The Florentine Bridge on my radar for some time, the blurb, as well as the exquisite cover, enticed me so much that I contacted the author to request an early review of this debut novel. The author granted my wish and as a result, I was able to read this novel prior to its release. It has been a privilege to be one of the first readers to enjoy this book and I cannot recommend this novel enough. Once I opened the first page, I was immediately lost in Mia’s heartfelt journey. The housework, dinner and life in general was put aside, while I spent time with Mia and Luca in picturesque Florence.
The beauty in this novel lies in a number of factors. Firstly, the main protagonist Mia is a character readers will easily be able to both like and relate to. Her transformation from just overcoming cancer, to finding the strength to move across the globe, far away from the comfort of her parents, was admirable. Carnevale makes the reader see that Mia’s journey is not an easy one and her life in Florence is not all hearts and roses. By the end of the novel, I couldn’t believe how far Mia had come, both professionally as a budding artist and personally, in her changed outlook on life.
Supporting Mia is a colourful cast of periphery characters that fill out the pages of Carnevale’s debut novel. Luca, the leading man, is both a character that will make the reader swoon but he is a very real character. Luca has his own back story and inner demons that must be overcome in order for his relationship with Mia to work. Alongside Luca are some unforgettable minor players, such as a local waiter, an elderly artist who mentors Mia, Mia’s employer Clara and flatmate Stella. Each of these characters adds a solid layer to The Florentine Bridge.
A review of this novel would not be complete unless I mentioned the setting. Although I visited Italy some years ago, Florence included, Carnevale has depicted the setting in such a way that I gleaned so much more from this rich location. It is obvious to the reader that Carnevale has lived and breathed Florence and Italy in general. Her setting descriptions are peppered with authentic anecdotes on landscape, art, culture and food that transfers vividly onto to paper for the reader.
The Florentine Bridge is a novel that resonates with you, long after the last page is read. It takes the reader on a heartfelt journey, filled with lessons in love and life. It also offers an authentic portrait of Italy – its culture, people, art and landscape, which I relished. The Florentine Bridge makes a late but nonetheless completely worthy entry into my list of best books of 2016. Vanessa Carnevale has a bright writing career ahead of her with the release of this stunning debut novel.
With thanks to the author and publisher for an earc copy for review.
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
Nineteen year old Mia is a promising artist, who hails from Melbourne, Australia. Mia has recently overcome a battle with cancer. Trying to find meaning in her life, Mia heads to the other side of the world, to Florence, Italy, where she hopes to reignite her passion for painting. When she arrives in a small village on the outskirts of Florence, Mia soon realises moving and starting anew is not an easy process. She does manage to build some trusting acquaintances, which assists her move. Despite the spectacular setting, the perfect muse to get her painting on track, Mia lacks the urge to put brush to paper. When a handsome and understanding young man named Luca enters her life, Mia’s world in Florence immediately changes. Mia’s relationship with Luca is the catalyst that sparks her return to painting. Enjoying love, life and the rich culture of Italy with Luca by her side, things couldn’t be better for Mia. However, Mia and Luca’s new found love for one another is put to the test, when life deals them both situations that will challenge their strength, both as a couple and an individual.
I have had The Florentine Bridge on my radar for some time, the blurb, as well as the exquisite cover, enticed me so much that I contacted the author to request an early review of this debut novel. The author granted my wish and as a result, I was able to read this novel prior to its release. It has been a privilege to be one of the first readers to enjoy this book and I cannot recommend this novel enough. Once I opened the first page, I was immediately lost in Mia’s heartfelt journey. The housework, dinner and life in general was put aside, while I spent time with Mia and Luca in picturesque Florence.
The beauty in this novel lies in a number of factors. Firstly, the main protagonist Mia is a character readers will easily be able to both like and relate to. Her transformation from just overcoming cancer, to finding the strength to move across the globe, far away from the comfort of her parents, was admirable. Carnevale makes the reader see that Mia’s journey is not an easy one and her life in Florence is not all hearts and roses. By the end of the novel, I couldn’t believe how far Mia had come, both professionally as a budding artist and personally, in her changed outlook on life.
Supporting Mia is a colourful cast of periphery characters that fill out the pages of Carnevale’s debut novel. Luca, the leading man, is both a character that will make the reader swoon but he is a very real character. Luca has his own back story and inner demons that must be overcome in order for his relationship with Mia to work. Alongside Luca are some unforgettable minor players, such as a local waiter, an elderly artist who mentors Mia, Mia’s employer Clara and flatmate Stella. Each of these characters adds a solid layer to The Florentine Bridge.
A review of this novel would not be complete unless I mentioned the setting. Although I visited Italy some years ago, Florence included, Carnevale has depicted the setting in such a way that I gleaned so much more from this rich location. It is obvious to the reader that Carnevale has lived and breathed Florence and Italy in general. Her setting descriptions are peppered with authentic anecdotes on landscape, art, culture and food that transfers vividly onto to paper for the reader.
The Florentine Bridge is a novel that resonates with you, long after the last page is read. It takes the reader on a heartfelt journey, filled with lessons in love and life. It also offers an authentic portrait of Italy – its culture, people, art and landscape, which I relished. The Florentine Bridge makes a late but nonetheless completely worthy entry into my list of best books of 2016. Vanessa Carnevale has a bright writing career ahead of her with the release of this stunning debut novel.
With thanks to the author and publisher for an earc copy for review.
*https://mrsbbookreviews.wordpress.com
August 21, 2017
I was very lucky to read this book as a manuscript and I was absolutely transported to Tuscany and I did not want to leave! Such a gorgeous love story, interwoven with a story of art, of finding and trusting oneself, and of learning to live life. Vanessa obviously knows Italy very well and it all comes to life in the book: the language, the landscape, the art and the atmosphere. A story and a set of characters that will stay with you long after you reluctantly have to leave them and Tuscany behind.
June 21, 2021
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ -- Made me cry stars!
PROS
-- Exceptionally written.
-- Well paced (I read it from cover to cover in @4 hours).
-- Breathtaking setting.
-- Beautiful, romantic, emotional, and heartbreaking plot.
-- Amazing characters.
-- Satisfying ending.
CONS
-- Very "insta love"
-- Because I am greedy and was enjoying this book so much, I wish we would have gotten an epilogue. It would have been nice to see what the future looked like for this couple. Especially Luca.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
PROS
-- Exceptionally written.
-- Well paced (I read it from cover to cover in @4 hours).
-- Breathtaking setting.
-- Beautiful, romantic, emotional, and heartbreaking plot.
-- Amazing characters.
-- Satisfying ending.
CONS
-- Very "insta love"
-- Because I am greedy and was enjoying this book so much, I wish we would have gotten an epilogue. It would have been nice to see what the future looked like for this couple. Especially Luca.
**ARC Via NetGalley**
November 1, 2016
If your ideal novel is one that is painted with vivid descriptions, and accompanied by a beautiful, emotion-filled love story, then this one's for you.
The Florentine Bridge is the debut novel from Australian author Vanessa Carnevale, is a captivating love story set against the backdrop of the gorgeous Tuscan skies of Italy.
Nineteen-year-old artist Mia, has packed her bags and paintbrushes to start afresh in a small village on the outskirts of Florence. Thousands of miles away from her family back in Melbourne, Mia, now in remission from cancer, is intent on trying to get her life back on track and be inspired to pick up her paintbrushes again. But, it is a lot harder than she thinks. Self-doubt and fear consume her every thought, and even the beautiful Tuscan scenery doesn't seem to be helping. That is, until she meets Luca.
What unfolds is a heart-warming, intimate love story that takes the reader on a chauffeured voyage of Florence, and the beautiful surrounding landscapes. It is both delicate and heart-breaking as the two lovers battle their own inner demons, tearing them apart, and threatening to break them altogether.
What I loved besides the magnificent way Vanessa paints the scenery, was the internal thoughts of Mia. Her fear, her frustrations, and her realisations were handled delicately allowing the reader to invest in her story. Mia's character development and arc were beautifully formed, and we can see her grow from beginning to end.
Vanessa has been able to put every emotion into her characters, and it is tenderly transferred from author, to character, right through to reader, making for a glorious emotion-filled read. The story was so beautifully written and portrayed, that I didn't want it to end.
The Florentine Bridge is the debut novel from Australian author Vanessa Carnevale, is a captivating love story set against the backdrop of the gorgeous Tuscan skies of Italy.
Nineteen-year-old artist Mia, has packed her bags and paintbrushes to start afresh in a small village on the outskirts of Florence. Thousands of miles away from her family back in Melbourne, Mia, now in remission from cancer, is intent on trying to get her life back on track and be inspired to pick up her paintbrushes again. But, it is a lot harder than she thinks. Self-doubt and fear consume her every thought, and even the beautiful Tuscan scenery doesn't seem to be helping. That is, until she meets Luca.
What unfolds is a heart-warming, intimate love story that takes the reader on a chauffeured voyage of Florence, and the beautiful surrounding landscapes. It is both delicate and heart-breaking as the two lovers battle their own inner demons, tearing them apart, and threatening to break them altogether.
What I loved besides the magnificent way Vanessa paints the scenery, was the internal thoughts of Mia. Her fear, her frustrations, and her realisations were handled delicately allowing the reader to invest in her story. Mia's character development and arc were beautifully formed, and we can see her grow from beginning to end.
Vanessa has been able to put every emotion into her characters, and it is tenderly transferred from author, to character, right through to reader, making for a glorious emotion-filled read. The story was so beautifully written and portrayed, that I didn't want it to end.
June 6, 2017
A very pretty romance that appealed to me, though it is a genera I rarely visit.
A gentle, light, story that follows a young Australian woman on her journey as she rediscovers life, her sense of self and her art. Mia had been on track to become an artist back home (Australia), with an acceptance to a renowned art course, a portfolio, friends and family. Then came Hodgkins lymphoma to turn her life around. Sick after the chemo and shattered by her fears of death Mia travels across the world to rediscover her health as she discovers Italy. She never expected to fall in love, but that too is part of her journey back to life and her rediscovery of her love of painting.
This romantic novel restored some of my faith in the genera, the strong main characters of Mia and Luca were well defined and likable. At times, I felt a little impatient with Mia’s terror, but that is because I know too much about Hodgkinson’s Lymphoma - it is the cancer to have if you must have cancer- it is a hard road coming back from cancer and chemotherapy. This element of personal fear adds a realistic challenge to her journey toward love, much more realistic than many other challenges that have been used by other romance novels I have read.
Luca himself is a very likable man and while he is certainly full on, I believe that intensity and self-assurance is very much the element that many women find attractive. His personal journey is more complex than the mere challenge of conquering Mia’s heart and overcoming her fears of intimacy.
The setting was delightful, both Tuscany and Florence are very much backdrops to the story they make charming backdrops which are every bit as romanticised as Mia and Luca’s courtship. The emphasis on the visual beauties of the area and the romance of the Italian language is also bound up in thestory. To accompany the pleasant setting, Mia’s love of art gives us a light and easy introduction to some of the history of art in the area and her slow journey back to her own creativity should appeal to any artist who has ever doubted themselves or had hitches in their creative journey, it certainly spoke to me on an artistic level.
A gentle, light, story that follows a young Australian woman on her journey as she rediscovers life, her sense of self and her art. Mia had been on track to become an artist back home (Australia), with an acceptance to a renowned art course, a portfolio, friends and family. Then came Hodgkins lymphoma to turn her life around. Sick after the chemo and shattered by her fears of death Mia travels across the world to rediscover her health as she discovers Italy. She never expected to fall in love, but that too is part of her journey back to life and her rediscovery of her love of painting.
This romantic novel restored some of my faith in the genera, the strong main characters of Mia and Luca were well defined and likable. At times, I felt a little impatient with Mia’s terror, but that is because I know too much about Hodgkinson’s Lymphoma - it is the cancer to have if you must have cancer- it is a hard road coming back from cancer and chemotherapy. This element of personal fear adds a realistic challenge to her journey toward love, much more realistic than many other challenges that have been used by other romance novels I have read.
Luca himself is a very likable man and while he is certainly full on, I believe that intensity and self-assurance is very much the element that many women find attractive. His personal journey is more complex than the mere challenge of conquering Mia’s heart and overcoming her fears of intimacy.
The setting was delightful, both Tuscany and Florence are very much backdrops to the story they make charming backdrops which are every bit as romanticised as Mia and Luca’s courtship. The emphasis on the visual beauties of the area and the romance of the Italian language is also bound up in thestory. To accompany the pleasant setting, Mia’s love of art gives us a light and easy introduction to some of the history of art in the area and her slow journey back to her own creativity should appeal to any artist who has ever doubted themselves or had hitches in their creative journey, it certainly spoke to me on an artistic level.
March 21, 2017
This is the most sweetest and saddest love story I've ever read. I was in bed sick with the flu but I still read this in two sittings as once I picked it up it was awfully hard to put down and then only because I was too ill to continue and needed sleep. I loved Mia and Luca's instant connection and their love story was most intriguing. The vivid description of Florence and the Amalfi Coast was breathtaking, it took me back to when I visited Italy 32 years ago - loving and exploring Lake Garda, Limone and Venice (also breathtaking) and now I want to see the rest of Italy especially Florence and the Amalfi Coast.
This book has a slow and even pace until wham when all of a sudden your heart skips a beat at the twist towards the end - the one the reader will not see coming. I read frantically right up until the very end needing and wanting to know desperately what happens to Luca and Mia and Luca's romance. I loved every inch of this gorgeous book.
Highly recommended.
This book has a slow and even pace until wham when all of a sudden your heart skips a beat at the twist towards the end - the one the reader will not see coming. I read frantically right up until the very end needing and wanting to know desperately what happens to Luca and Mia and Luca's romance. I loved every inch of this gorgeous book.
Highly recommended.
August 12, 2021
Mia Moretti has always dreamed of becoming an artist. But after a fierce battle with cancer that she is terrified will return, Mia is heartbroken to find herself unable to paint like she used to, and is forced to give up her place at art school.
So when an opportunity to spend the summer in Italy presents itself, Mia jumps at the chance for a fresh start. She hopes that by travelling to the sun-drenched streets of Florence, surrounded by art and Tuscany’s rich green vineyards and sweeping hills, she will finally be able to heal.
What Mia doesn't count on is meeting handsome local mechanic, Luca Bonnici. With his easy smile, endless warmth and irresistible joie de vivre, Mia can’t help but fall for him. And, as she slowly lets down her walls and opens her heart to Luca, Mia starts to fall in love with life again too.
But just when she is ready to let go of her past, tragedy strikes. Will Mia’s strength and her love for Luca be enough to save them both, or is it already too late?
What a heartbreakingly wonderful story! Yet another amazing book by one of my favourite authors!
The plot is so beautifully written and descriptive that you get the feeling of having visited Italy without moving an inch from your seat.
The characters are all lovable, jovial and so full of life, just like how Italians are! But Mia’s journey is the highlight. Her story is an inspiration to everyone who is scared to trust easily or live freely after experiencing something so difficult. And everybody needs a Luca in their life to give the encouragement to start pursuing your passion again.
The ending was obviously expected but it was definitely satisfying and I would have been disappointed if it had ended in another way!
Thank You NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC!
So when an opportunity to spend the summer in Italy presents itself, Mia jumps at the chance for a fresh start. She hopes that by travelling to the sun-drenched streets of Florence, surrounded by art and Tuscany’s rich green vineyards and sweeping hills, she will finally be able to heal.
What Mia doesn't count on is meeting handsome local mechanic, Luca Bonnici. With his easy smile, endless warmth and irresistible joie de vivre, Mia can’t help but fall for him. And, as she slowly lets down her walls and opens her heart to Luca, Mia starts to fall in love with life again too.
But just when she is ready to let go of her past, tragedy strikes. Will Mia’s strength and her love for Luca be enough to save them both, or is it already too late?
What a heartbreakingly wonderful story! Yet another amazing book by one of my favourite authors!
The plot is so beautifully written and descriptive that you get the feeling of having visited Italy without moving an inch from your seat.
The characters are all lovable, jovial and so full of life, just like how Italians are! But Mia’s journey is the highlight. Her story is an inspiration to everyone who is scared to trust easily or live freely after experiencing something so difficult. And everybody needs a Luca in their life to give the encouragement to start pursuing your passion again.
The ending was obviously expected but it was definitely satisfying and I would have been disappointed if it had ended in another way!
Thank You NetGalley and Bookouture for this ARC!
August 3, 2017
This breathtaking debut novel is one that will stay with me for a long time. Set in one of the most beautiful regions of the world, Carnevale takes readers on an emotional, cultural and scenic journey into the world of Mia and Luca. Mia’s struggle touched my heart and Luca’s support and encouragement made me fall in love with him, just like Mia did. I adored this novel and I cannot wait to read Vanessa Carnevale’s next book. For a wonderful escape into beautiful Florence, I highly recommend this beautiful book (and make sure you have tissues nearby!).
February 23, 2017
I really enjoyed this book. I was quite surprised at the effect it had on me.
Full review at
https://mariemclean.com/2017/02/24/a-...
Full review at
https://mariemclean.com/2017/02/24/a-...
March 20, 2017
Oh what a wonderful story. One oozing with young love, healing, hope and emotion so beautifully described and descriptively written. I thoroughly enjoyed my holiday read which was set in Italy telling the story of a young artist fleeing Australia struggling to recover from cancer. An amazing story of girl meets boy who fall madly in love and so much more.
I highly recommend this book.
I highly recommend this book.
April 28, 2021
Special thanks to NetGalley and Vanessa Carnevale for sharing this arc copy with me in exchange for my honest thoughts.
So, this book was written by a Australian author and it came out in Australia in 2016?. So I had heard about this book and it got really good word of mouth.
Vanessa Carnevale is a new author for me and I really liked this book! Her character, Mia Moretti arrived in Florence, she was unsure of her feelings. Her confidence was at an all-time low, but she was in remission from cancer – had been for nine months but she was unable to paint; her voice and creativity had left her and she had no idea how to get it back.
well she meets a striking local man.. he showed her how to feel again.. How to paint again and how to live again and how to love..
the scenery in this book is stunning, Set against the magnificent locale of Florence, Italy and surrounds
really liked this book!
So, this book was written by a Australian author and it came out in Australia in 2016?. So I had heard about this book and it got really good word of mouth.
Vanessa Carnevale is a new author for me and I really liked this book! Her character, Mia Moretti arrived in Florence, she was unsure of her feelings. Her confidence was at an all-time low, but she was in remission from cancer – had been for nine months but she was unable to paint; her voice and creativity had left her and she had no idea how to get it back.
well she meets a striking local man.. he showed her how to feel again.. How to paint again and how to live again and how to love..
the scenery in this book is stunning, Set against the magnificent locale of Florence, Italy and surrounds
really liked this book!
June 10, 2022
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my digital copy in exchange for an honest review. If I am being honest, I will read any book that comes my way about Italy...especially one that involves doing things that scare you and growing from the experience. This was a great book all the way around for me. Mia is given the chance to spend the summer in Italy and she is hoping for a fresh start...she has been sick and she can no longer paint like she used to...her heart just isn't in it the way it once was and she is hoping that Italy will help get her back to who she used to be. Not only does it help in that respect, but she finds a new love and she grows from the experience. Great book.
June 8, 2021
This is much more than a contemporary romance, it is a poignant, emotive story of learning to live and love again after experiencing life-threatening illness or injury.
Australian Mia Moretti is in remission – again – but fears the return of cancer, again. She’s always dreamed of becoming an artist but her ability to paint is also affected by her fears. She travels to Italy in the hope of being inspired to paint again and make a fresh start. On her first day in her new home she meets Luca Bonnici, a handsome, charismatic local and the two quickly become close, exploring the glorious Tuscan region together. However, when fate intervenes, will Mia have the strength to fight for their love or will this just be a summer romance?
Talk about a roller-coaster read!! This is a story that will remain in my memory long after finishing it. It takes you through the whole gamut of emotions and leaves you reeling as it unfolds. There are a thorough mix of heartbreaking and heartwarming events, fantastic, believable and relatable characters, journeys through the idyllic Tuscan landscape and beautiful art in this evocative read. If you’re looking for an unforgettable, moving read, look no further, grab yourself a copy of this book and get the tissues ready, just in case!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.
Australian Mia Moretti is in remission – again – but fears the return of cancer, again. She’s always dreamed of becoming an artist but her ability to paint is also affected by her fears. She travels to Italy in the hope of being inspired to paint again and make a fresh start. On her first day in her new home she meets Luca Bonnici, a handsome, charismatic local and the two quickly become close, exploring the glorious Tuscan region together. However, when fate intervenes, will Mia have the strength to fight for their love or will this just be a summer romance?
Talk about a roller-coaster read!! This is a story that will remain in my memory long after finishing it. It takes you through the whole gamut of emotions and leaves you reeling as it unfolds. There are a thorough mix of heartbreaking and heartwarming events, fantastic, believable and relatable characters, journeys through the idyllic Tuscan landscape and beautiful art in this evocative read. If you’re looking for an unforgettable, moving read, look no further, grab yourself a copy of this book and get the tissues ready, just in case!
Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for my copy of this book which I have voluntarily read and honestly reviewed.
January 2, 2017
I'll admit, I don't prioritise reading nearly enough, and rarely get to the end of books... The Florentine Bridge is the first book I have read in its entirity for a few years, and every moment spent reading it was mesmerising. The Florentine Bridge is the perfect book to pick up on a weekend or holiday, when you want to disappear to another place, the world of other people falling in love in a beautiful space. At times it felt a little like I was spying on the lives of two young lovers, a little guilty to intrude on their incredibly personal space and feelings... I was surprised to find that Mia prompted me to reflect on my own emotional journey and affections for my husband - I was prompted to question my own insecurities of uncertainty and worthiness, and feelings of devotion and love. The Florentine Bridge isn't only intensely emotional, it is vivid in Vanessa Carnevale's skilful illustration of place, space and time. I could sense the sand between my toes; the dappled sunlight on my skin; the hum of chatter, footsteps and engines on the streets of Florence; the aroma of coffee and lemons; the breeze in my hair on the back of a scooter breathing in the Tuscan countryside; I simply felt immersed in "la vita bella" with Mia and Luca.
For the most part, Vanessa Carnevale follows a familiar romance pattern, with young lovers falling head over heels in love, and sharing their romantic adventures with us. Indeed I was ensnared by the easy, comfortable flow of their predictable highs and lows - too young, too fast, too hard? - just love, pure, beautiful love...; but the difference to other modern romance novels I have read which I welcomed is in Carnevale's accurate capturing of anxieties, the depths of sensory descriptions, the intensity of feelings that brought tears to my eyes, and the vivid detail that revealed her intention to share, through the eyes of Mia, some of what she herself has seen, felt and been in Italy - for without question, Carnevale could only have painted the story that she does having been personally inspired by the world she aptly illustrates. I also welcomed the disruption to the comfort, when finally, the penultimate chapters quickened my heart, had me biting my lip, desperate to know what would happen, intent on postponing my own family dinner while I finished the story, buoyed by nerves and cautious optimism...
I can't wait to be transported to the world Vanessa Carnevale chooses to share next! I highly recommend Carnevale's debut novel The Florentine Bridge, which will leave big shoes to fill, but I feel confident I can look forward to my next holiday read from this young Australian author.
For the most part, Vanessa Carnevale follows a familiar romance pattern, with young lovers falling head over heels in love, and sharing their romantic adventures with us. Indeed I was ensnared by the easy, comfortable flow of their predictable highs and lows - too young, too fast, too hard? - just love, pure, beautiful love...; but the difference to other modern romance novels I have read which I welcomed is in Carnevale's accurate capturing of anxieties, the depths of sensory descriptions, the intensity of feelings that brought tears to my eyes, and the vivid detail that revealed her intention to share, through the eyes of Mia, some of what she herself has seen, felt and been in Italy - for without question, Carnevale could only have painted the story that she does having been personally inspired by the world she aptly illustrates. I also welcomed the disruption to the comfort, when finally, the penultimate chapters quickened my heart, had me biting my lip, desperate to know what would happen, intent on postponing my own family dinner while I finished the story, buoyed by nerves and cautious optimism...
I can't wait to be transported to the world Vanessa Carnevale chooses to share next! I highly recommend Carnevale's debut novel The Florentine Bridge, which will leave big shoes to fill, but I feel confident I can look forward to my next holiday read from this young Australian author.
June 14, 2017
Part romance and part coming of age, The Florentine Bridge delights right from the start. Vanessa Carnevale has an easy writing style that sweeps you up and immerses you, not only into the lives of her characters, but into the surrounds and the setting of the story as well. It was a real treat to get such a vivid sense of Tuscany through Mia's tourist gaze and I particularly appreciated the more anecdotal references and local conviviality sprinkled throughout.
The true highlight for me with this novel was the artistic angle of the story, but as what usually happens to me when reading a book about art, I found myself desperately wishing I could see Mia's paintings in a place other than my mind. Vanessa's depictions were quite vivid though and rather impressive, leaving me with a true sense of what Mia had created each and every time.
There were many emotional moments throughout this story, plenty of highs and possibly more lows, yet I felt that this was overwhelming a book about joy. The joy of loving, the joy of living, the joy of discovering who you are and what you mean to those around you. The Florentine Bridge is a beautiful novel and I look forward reading many more books by Vanessa Carnevale. Her talent is a most welcome addition to Australia's literary landscape.
#AWW2017
The true highlight for me with this novel was the artistic angle of the story, but as what usually happens to me when reading a book about art, I found myself desperately wishing I could see Mia's paintings in a place other than my mind. Vanessa's depictions were quite vivid though and rather impressive, leaving me with a true sense of what Mia had created each and every time.
There were many emotional moments throughout this story, plenty of highs and possibly more lows, yet I felt that this was overwhelming a book about joy. The joy of loving, the joy of living, the joy of discovering who you are and what you mean to those around you. The Florentine Bridge is a beautiful novel and I look forward reading many more books by Vanessa Carnevale. Her talent is a most welcome addition to Australia's literary landscape.
#AWW2017
March 4, 2017
The Florentine Bridge by Vanessa Carnevale is a beautiful but some-what tragic story set in Florence, Italy.
Mia Moretti is a young Australian artist who travels to Italy in hope of a new life.
On arrival in Florence, Mia falls in love with her new surroundings, the artistic feel of Florence and the Tuscan countryside.
Mia cooks Tuscan cuisine and rediscovers herself through art. She is inspired to get out her watercolours once again to paint and capture the Italian landscape.
It is here where she sets her mind free.
Mia starts to see and discover a new light in her life by opening a series of new windows.
It's like a new bright sunbeam has come shining through her window-shutters as she opens them to a field of bright, yellow sunflowers.
This is a love story where Mia finds love under the Florentine Bridge. It's romantic but will it last?
Can she keep Luca's love?
I highly recommend The Florentine Bridge by Vanessa Carnevale.
Mia Moretti is a young Australian artist who travels to Italy in hope of a new life.
On arrival in Florence, Mia falls in love with her new surroundings, the artistic feel of Florence and the Tuscan countryside.
Mia cooks Tuscan cuisine and rediscovers herself through art. She is inspired to get out her watercolours once again to paint and capture the Italian landscape.
It is here where she sets her mind free.
Mia starts to see and discover a new light in her life by opening a series of new windows.
It's like a new bright sunbeam has come shining through her window-shutters as she opens them to a field of bright, yellow sunflowers.
This is a love story where Mia finds love under the Florentine Bridge. It's romantic but will it last?
Can she keep Luca's love?
I highly recommend The Florentine Bridge by Vanessa Carnevale.
December 13, 2016
Now I want to learn to paint and travel to Italy!
Vanessa has written an emotionally engaging and evocative tale of romance and self-discovery. The vivid descriptions of Italy and painting drew me in and the slow burn romance kept me turning pages. I really connected with Mia - I felt like I got right inside her head. And Luca **swoon** I could listen to him talk all day long.
A fabulous debut from Vanessa - I'm looking forward to reading more of her work.
Vanessa has written an emotionally engaging and evocative tale of romance and self-discovery. The vivid descriptions of Italy and painting drew me in and the slow burn romance kept me turning pages. I really connected with Mia - I felt like I got right inside her head. And Luca **swoon** I could listen to him talk all day long.
A fabulous debut from Vanessa - I'm looking forward to reading more of her work.
January 13, 2017
**Four and a half stars
The Florentine Bridge is the debut novel from Australian author Vanessa Carnevale. Set against a gorgeous Tuscan backdrop, it is truly a captivating love story. If you are in the mood for curling up and being transported to Italy, whilst witnessing a very emotional love story, then this is the book for you.
Full review at:
http://greatreadsandtealeaves.blogspo...
The Florentine Bridge is the debut novel from Australian author Vanessa Carnevale. Set against a gorgeous Tuscan backdrop, it is truly a captivating love story. If you are in the mood for curling up and being transported to Italy, whilst witnessing a very emotional love story, then this is the book for you.
Full review at:
http://greatreadsandtealeaves.blogspo...
June 12, 2017
Rating: 3,5*
I like the story but not the "insta love" thing between MC (Luca and Mia). They fell in love after after just two days after their first meeting and this was unrealistic. In the other half of book story became better and I sobed at some parts.
If you love Italy, art, culture and Italian people, this book is just for you!
I like the story but not the "insta love" thing between MC (Luca and Mia). They fell in love after after just two days after their first meeting and this was unrealistic. In the other half of book story became better and I sobed at some parts.
If you love Italy, art, culture and Italian people, this book is just for you!
April 29, 2018
This was such a beautiful book. It took me a while to read it from the time I first bought it, just because I was extremely busy with University studies, but as soon as I started, it was the kind of story I didn't want to end. I've already bought the authors new book to start straight away!
August 12, 2017
A lovely, heartwarming and romantic read. I smiled most of the way through, with a few tears for good measure.
May 17, 2021
3.5 Stars
Mia Moretti travels from Melbourne to Florence to heal from the psychological and emotional scars left by a life-threatening condition. She also wants to get back her art and paint again.
She meets a local mechanic, Luca, who sweeps her away across the country, making her smile, help her face her fears, and paint again. But when a tragedy strikes them, can they let love keep them together, or will it tear them apart?
I picked the book for its setting more than anything else. The story started out great, and that was a plus. The writing is easy to follow, and I finished the book in two days. The imagery is beautiful (obviously, it’s Italy!), and I could picture it with ease. More so because I’m a fan of David Rocco and watched his Dolce Vita series set in Florence, Sicily, Amalfi, and Napoli.
After a light 2/3 of the book, the last 1/3 went totally out of balance. Though the book talks about Mia’s recovery from cancer, it doesn’t get too intense until after 65% or so. And then, it almost gets overwhelming, pushing one heavy emotion after another on the reader.
There’s little breathing space, and that too is shadowed by intense agony and grief. This unexpected shift didn’t work for me. The tone was set by then, and I knew there would be some conflict. But based on what flowed until then, I wasn’t expecting something this forceful. It does have a decent happy ending, but I only heaved a sigh of relief that the book was over.
Maybe if the story has a non-linear narration to space out things, it would have been easier to handle. Also, the insta-love would have had a better chance of convincing the readers.
What surprised me was the age of the characters, which slipped my mind after the initial chapter or two. Mia is 19 years old. Yeah, she’s quite mature for her age (not always, mind you), but the book is a typical romance and reads like the one with 25+ characters. Though 19 is not terribly young, she is still a teen and acts like one only when the author needs some ripples or touches of conflict.
The talk of art was lovely to read. There was nothing technical, and the focus is on how Mia lets go and starts to embrace her talent. The side characters are well-etched and do their bit to bring some cheer into the book.
If not for the 1/3rd of the book, where Mia’s character is developed, and Luca is almost messed up, this one would have been a four-star for me.
Overall, it’s an enjoyable read with a wonderful setting, but be prepared for an extra-emotional last section and some heavy drama.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bookouture and am voluntarily leaving a review.
#HerTuscanSummer #NetGalley
Mia Moretti travels from Melbourne to Florence to heal from the psychological and emotional scars left by a life-threatening condition. She also wants to get back her art and paint again.
She meets a local mechanic, Luca, who sweeps her away across the country, making her smile, help her face her fears, and paint again. But when a tragedy strikes them, can they let love keep them together, or will it tear them apart?
I picked the book for its setting more than anything else. The story started out great, and that was a plus. The writing is easy to follow, and I finished the book in two days. The imagery is beautiful (obviously, it’s Italy!), and I could picture it with ease. More so because I’m a fan of David Rocco and watched his Dolce Vita series set in Florence, Sicily, Amalfi, and Napoli.
After a light 2/3 of the book, the last 1/3 went totally out of balance. Though the book talks about Mia’s recovery from cancer, it doesn’t get too intense until after 65% or so. And then, it almost gets overwhelming, pushing one heavy emotion after another on the reader.
There’s little breathing space, and that too is shadowed by intense agony and grief. This unexpected shift didn’t work for me. The tone was set by then, and I knew there would be some conflict. But based on what flowed until then, I wasn’t expecting something this forceful. It does have a decent happy ending, but I only heaved a sigh of relief that the book was over.
Maybe if the story has a non-linear narration to space out things, it would have been easier to handle. Also, the insta-love would have had a better chance of convincing the readers.
What surprised me was the age of the characters, which slipped my mind after the initial chapter or two. Mia is 19 years old. Yeah, she’s quite mature for her age (not always, mind you), but the book is a typical romance and reads like the one with 25+ characters. Though 19 is not terribly young, she is still a teen and acts like one only when the author needs some ripples or touches of conflict.
The talk of art was lovely to read. There was nothing technical, and the focus is on how Mia lets go and starts to embrace her talent. The side characters are well-etched and do their bit to bring some cheer into the book.
If not for the 1/3rd of the book, where Mia’s character is developed, and Luca is almost messed up, this one would have been a four-star for me.
Overall, it’s an enjoyable read with a wonderful setting, but be prepared for an extra-emotional last section and some heavy drama.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Bookouture and am voluntarily leaving a review.
#HerTuscanSummer #NetGalley
July 1, 2021
The story is not new and very predictable.
Mia is traveling to Italy to find herself after years of fighting cancer and there she not only finds herself but finds love and friendship and life.
I thought Mia and Luca happened way too fast, it really bothered me.
But I totally enjoyed reading about their relationship.
And I absolutely loved the Italian setting, they way it was described it really took me there.
The cancer talk got me really emotional, but I saw it from the mother’s point of view and it was scary.
Luca is too good to be true.
An enjoyable read.
This review is for a free copy courtesy of Netgalley
Mia is traveling to Italy to find herself after years of fighting cancer and there she not only finds herself but finds love and friendship and life.
I thought Mia and Luca happened way too fast, it really bothered me.
But I totally enjoyed reading about their relationship.
And I absolutely loved the Italian setting, they way it was described it really took me there.
The cancer talk got me really emotional, but I saw it from the mother’s point of view and it was scary.
Luca is too good to be true.
An enjoyable read.
This review is for a free copy courtesy of Netgalley
April 20, 2018
This is absolutely a beautiful writing story very emotional at times.
Mia Morretti a young Australian girl who is remission from cancer travels to Tuscany to overcome her fears and to see if she can paint again after not able to paint during her treatment.
She goes to live with Stella and gets a job working as nanny for Clara a mother of twins boys and is also an art dealer who commissions artists work.
Luca is young Mechanic who is partners with Stella's boyfriend Poalo when Mia meets him , she starts to see what life has offer. As Luca shows a new outlook to what life could be like instead of living in fear of the cancer returning. Slowly she lets down her defenses and falls for Luca but as he tries to what their life could be together on holiday away Mia gets sick and her fears return and breaks it off with him.
But then tragedy strikes the couple in away you list expect. It is amazing how Vanessa Carnevale takes on trip through Florence, other places of Itay and emotions of not only Mia, Luca but the people around them that support their love for each to overcome anything that comes their way.
This is the first book by Vanessa Carnevale I have read and I highly recommend this book for you to put on your to read pile.
Mia Morretti a young Australian girl who is remission from cancer travels to Tuscany to overcome her fears and to see if she can paint again after not able to paint during her treatment.
She goes to live with Stella and gets a job working as nanny for Clara a mother of twins boys and is also an art dealer who commissions artists work.
Luca is young Mechanic who is partners with Stella's boyfriend Poalo when Mia meets him , she starts to see what life has offer. As Luca shows a new outlook to what life could be like instead of living in fear of the cancer returning. Slowly she lets down her defenses and falls for Luca but as he tries to what their life could be together on holiday away Mia gets sick and her fears return and breaks it off with him.
But then tragedy strikes the couple in away you list expect. It is amazing how Vanessa Carnevale takes on trip through Florence, other places of Itay and emotions of not only Mia, Luca but the people around them that support their love for each to overcome anything that comes their way.
This is the first book by Vanessa Carnevale I have read and I highly recommend this book for you to put on your to read pile.
January 22, 2020
Please if you are going to read this get some tissues ready. Melts your heart and makes you realise what you have an dhow life can be so cruel. Loved reading this book, can't believe it's all over.. Definitely recommend.
October 3, 2018
Loved this book- lovely storyline and characters against a gorgeous Italian backdrop
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