Book Review: The View From Lake Como by Adriana Trigiani

“Pay attention to the moments you live in and find your place in them. Be content with your portion. I’m a very small part of something beautiful on this Italian lake, and that’s enough.”

Adriana Trigiani, The View From Lake Como

Review:

I don’t think any modern-day author can capture the idea of Italy better than Adriana Trigiani. There is something enchanting about the country. Although I have only spent a week of my life there, I still speak about it as though it were a significant era. Watching Jess ‘come home’ was such a treat.

A divorce and an unexpected family death have thrown Jess’ life, and really, identity, off course. Family secrets start to come to light, leaving Jess caught in between. She seeks refuge in Carrara, Italy and tries to make sense of her grief and what she wants out of life.

Not surprisingly, I loved the Italy portions of the story. The lead-up was good, but I felt there was also a lot of extra familial stuff that was more or less filler. I loved the scenes between Jess and Uncle Louie. I didn’t find much interest in the plot line concerning Bobby, though. I was definitely there for the Italian vibes and Catholic imagery that I’ve grown fond of in her books. 

Likes & Dislikes:

What I liked:

• The Italy vibes!
• Jess’ emotional arc, especially her experiencing grief.
• All of the saint mentions!

What I didn’t like:

• Slow with not much build-up to anything (but good for a cozy read).

Afterthoughts:

Although I’ve yet to read all of this author’s books, I find something so nostalgic and homey in her writing.

Where to buy the book: