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Casalvento: House of the Wind
Romance and family secrets intertwine in Tuscany.
Erika Germoglio is a self-made woman who has it all—a successful career and a well-connected fiancé—then suddenly has even more. An Italian grandfather she has never met wills to her Casalvento, a house and a vineyard, and Livernano, a medieval village turned bed-and-breakfast, both in the Chianti region of Tuscany.
When Erika travels to Italy to settle the affairs of her inheritance, she meets Paolo, Casalvento’s intelligent, compassionate, and strikingly handsome estate manager and wine maker. And she learns the inheritance comes with a catch—to keep or sell Casalvento and Livernano, she must live there and learn the business of the two estates for five months.
Should she uproot her New York life and embrace all Italy has to offer? And if she chooses Italy, which man will be by her side? Erika struggles with that question while fulfilling the stipulations of the will and trying to make sense of a series of letters left for her by her late grandfather, Craig’s unpredictable attitude when she calls home, and her own feelings whenever she sees Paolo.
Set in the real Casalvento (House of the Wind) of Radda and Livernano in Chianti Siena, Italy, debut author Gudrun Cuillo’s Casalvento will captivate your heart and make you wonder if not only in vino veritas , but also possibly in vino amore e felicità .
Erika Germoglio is a self-made woman who has it all—a successful career and a well-connected fiancé—then suddenly has even more. An Italian grandfather she has never met wills to her Casalvento, a house and a vineyard, and Livernano, a medieval village turned bed-and-breakfast, both in the Chianti region of Tuscany.
When Erika travels to Italy to settle the affairs of her inheritance, she meets Paolo, Casalvento’s intelligent, compassionate, and strikingly handsome estate manager and wine maker. And she learns the inheritance comes with a catch—to keep or sell Casalvento and Livernano, she must live there and learn the business of the two estates for five months.
Should she uproot her New York life and embrace all Italy has to offer? And if she chooses Italy, which man will be by her side? Erika struggles with that question while fulfilling the stipulations of the will and trying to make sense of a series of letters left for her by her late grandfather, Craig’s unpredictable attitude when she calls home, and her own feelings whenever she sees Paolo.
Set in the real Casalvento (House of the Wind) of Radda and Livernano in Chianti Siena, Italy, debut author Gudrun Cuillo’s Casalvento will captivate your heart and make you wonder if not only in vino veritas , but also possibly in vino amore e felicità .
313 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 6, 2023
21 people are currently reading
2731 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 153 reviews
May 19, 2023
This was a very interesting book and a great first story. I definitely felt transported to Tuscany and while I don’t care for wine (I know, I know) and there was a lot about win in this book I still fell in love with the winery in Italy. I will say I felt like this book was a bit like a Hallmark movie - everything is so predictable it’s formulaic but it’s still a pleasant and enjoyable ride. Erika is satisfied with her life in New York City. She owns her own business, is engaged to a man she loves, and has everything she wanted. But when she gets a letter telling her she’s inherited property in Italy she is blown away, especially since she’s never met any family members beyond her parents. She heads to Italy with plans of selling the property, but nothing goes quite like she planned. Despite the changes and obstacles that pop up she is blown away every day at how beautiful Italy and how much happier she is there. It doesn’t hurt that she meets plenty of wonderful people, including an extra special man who runs her vineyards and helps her with more than business. Overall I gave this one 3.5 stars and I rounded up because the descriptions of the scenery were so good. I also loved the descriptions of food (once Erika got over not eating….).
July 12, 2023
Erika Germoglio co-owned and operated a highly successful company that specialized in rehabilitating distressed companies. She shared her success with her fiancé, Craig Bernhardt, who was a prominent real estate lawyer. Erika and Craig were engaged for a number of years, and with both of their careers on the move, they decided to secure a date for their wedding. To Erika, having to finalize her wedding plans was like a dream come true. And Erika would have her happily ever after. Or so she thought.
Before Erika could even begin to plan her wedding, she receives a strange letter from an attorney in Italy. Apparently, Erika had relatives in Italy and a grandfather that she never knew existed. Unfortunately, the letter didn’t bear any good news as she was made aware of the passing of Umberto Germoglio…her grandfather. As a result of Umberto’s passing, Erika stood to inherit a winery as well as a B&B. The only catch — Erika had to learn to operate both the winery and B&B. A task that required a minimum stay of five months. And as Erika would soon find out, perhaps moving to Italy would be the best move she would ever make.
After reading an excerpt from Casalvento, I knew in my heart that I would love this novel. I was not disappointed. Reminicent of the movie Under the Tuscan Sun, Casalvento exuded the same romantic and tranquil atmosphere that is associated with the Tuscan landscape.
I loved the primary characters in this novel. Author Cuillo has a gift of establishing and generating her characters into people that are interesting and engaging. It was easy to like them, and I was highly entertained by a few of the minor players.
I can’t say much about the plot without giving away that whole story. But I will say that there are some surprises dotted along the way that will lead to a heartfelt finale. And as a bonus, there are a few delectable recipes at the end of the novel which include: Pennee Della Nonna, Pasta E Fagioli, Linguine Con Cozze E Vongole.
I received a physical copy of the book from Greenleaf Book Group Press through the BookishFirst raffle. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
Before Erika could even begin to plan her wedding, she receives a strange letter from an attorney in Italy. Apparently, Erika had relatives in Italy and a grandfather that she never knew existed. Unfortunately, the letter didn’t bear any good news as she was made aware of the passing of Umberto Germoglio…her grandfather. As a result of Umberto’s passing, Erika stood to inherit a winery as well as a B&B. The only catch — Erika had to learn to operate both the winery and B&B. A task that required a minimum stay of five months. And as Erika would soon find out, perhaps moving to Italy would be the best move she would ever make.
After reading an excerpt from Casalvento, I knew in my heart that I would love this novel. I was not disappointed. Reminicent of the movie Under the Tuscan Sun, Casalvento exuded the same romantic and tranquil atmosphere that is associated with the Tuscan landscape.
I loved the primary characters in this novel. Author Cuillo has a gift of establishing and generating her characters into people that are interesting and engaging. It was easy to like them, and I was highly entertained by a few of the minor players.
I can’t say much about the plot without giving away that whole story. But I will say that there are some surprises dotted along the way that will lead to a heartfelt finale. And as a bonus, there are a few delectable recipes at the end of the novel which include: Pennee Della Nonna, Pasta E Fagioli, Linguine Con Cozze E Vongole.
I received a physical copy of the book from Greenleaf Book Group Press through the BookishFirst raffle. The review herein is completely my own and contains my honest thoughts and opinions.
September 27, 2023
I received this audio book as an ARC from Netgalley, Greenleaf Books, and the author.
This was a story about a business woman in New York who suddenly finds out she has inherited a winery, and hotel, in Italy. Once there she starts learning that Italy and New York are not the same place. She learns about this mysterious grandfather who left her these properties, the people who work them, and the way of life. In the end she falls in love with the place, the people, and the way of life.
I enjoyed it very much. I believe this is the author's debut book. I look forward to reading more from her, of Tuscany, and the vineyards of Italy.
This was a story about a business woman in New York who suddenly finds out she has inherited a winery, and hotel, in Italy. Once there she starts learning that Italy and New York are not the same place. She learns about this mysterious grandfather who left her these properties, the people who work them, and the way of life. In the end she falls in love with the place, the people, and the way of life.
I enjoyed it very much. I believe this is the author's debut book. I look forward to reading more from her, of Tuscany, and the vineyards of Italy.
October 25, 2024
I received this book as an eARC in exchange for my honest review. Thank you!
July 12, 2023
Deep, deep, deep down there is a good book with a good plot in this book. Unfortunately, it is buried under terribly written dialogue, and unnecessary time jumps. The dialogue in this book reads as an unedited first draft. That could have been made to be good if the author or anyone who edited this book read the dialogue out loud. For one, the dialogue jumps around too much and is cut too short. In one scene Erika finds out Craig cheated on her. She doesn’t let him explain, and then for some unknown reason calls him a manipulator and tells him how he has always held her back?? There is no backstory to this. The writer does not delve into Erika and Craig’s relationship enough for you to know that he is or isn’t a terrible person. In fact none of the characters are truly fleshed out due to the time skips. Where almost every paragraph jumps hours or days into the future. Leaving the reader no time to get to know the characters. This causes the reader to become disinterested in the story as there is no connection to the characters, and there is no real live story to route for because Paulo and Erika are never really shown to fall in love - they just somehow are in love.
October 31, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley and Greenleaf Book Press Group for the audio ARC in exchange for my honest review. This book was published June 6, 2023.
This is a solid debut by the author. Prepare to be transported to Tuscany and experience life running a vineyard and delicious pasta dishes.
Erica was extremely annoying but as her life changed drastically so did she. Somewhat predictable but with a major twist at the end.
A fun and quick read!
This is a solid debut by the author. Prepare to be transported to Tuscany and experience life running a vineyard and delicious pasta dishes.
Erica was extremely annoying but as her life changed drastically so did she. Somewhat predictable but with a major twist at the end.
A fun and quick read!
June 27, 2023
Rating: 5 Stars!!
Review:
Thank you to BookishFirst for picking me to win this FREE ARC COPY in a Raffle on their website last month!!
This was my first time reading a book by Gudrun Cuillo so i wasnt sure what to expect but i have to say i really loved and enjoyed this one so much. I think while i loved this one so much is because i rarely read books like this one where a Woman inherits Property from her Grandfather which had 2 Vineyards and 1 Winery on it.
The Characters were so fun and interesting to read about. Erika, Pablo and Max were definately my favorites and i will admit i was rooting for Erika and Max throughout the book even tho the ending left me feeling disappointed about them.
The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was really in Italy while reading especially when the scenery was described.
Overall a Good Contemporary Romance Book about a Woman who inherits Property from her Italian Grandfather after his passing!! Can't wait to read more by Gudrun in the future!!
Review:
Thank you to BookishFirst for picking me to win this FREE ARC COPY in a Raffle on their website last month!!
This was my first time reading a book by Gudrun Cuillo so i wasnt sure what to expect but i have to say i really loved and enjoyed this one so much. I think while i loved this one so much is because i rarely read books like this one where a Woman inherits Property from her Grandfather which had 2 Vineyards and 1 Winery on it.
The Characters were so fun and interesting to read about. Erika, Pablo and Max were definately my favorites and i will admit i was rooting for Erika and Max throughout the book even tho the ending left me feeling disappointed about them.
The Setting was beautifully described which made me feel like i was really in Italy while reading especially when the scenery was described.
Overall a Good Contemporary Romance Book about a Woman who inherits Property from her Italian Grandfather after his passing!! Can't wait to read more by Gudrun in the future!!
July 1, 2023
Erika’s parents died when she was a young adult. Years later, when she was living in New York, she gets a letter saying that she inherited two small vineyards and a hotel, Casalvento and Livernano in Italy from her paternal grandfather. A man she never knew. Erika’s current job is turning properties around for a profit. She is also engaged to a man named Craig. She now has to fly to Italy to handle these estates, and everything that goes with them, while trying to juggle her life at home.
I found Erika to be very arrogant. At first, she thinks the people that work at her grandfather’s wineries aren’t very smart. She thinks they should have college degrees and may fire them, if they don’t have any. I thought it was interesting, reading about how the business side of the Vineyard works. All the food and wine descriptions made my mouth water. I enjoyed the letters from Umberto to Erika. They really helped the story come together. The story had me gripped right from the beginning. The author has a wonderful way with words. I really enjoyed the story.
I found Erika to be very arrogant. At first, she thinks the people that work at her grandfather’s wineries aren’t very smart. She thinks they should have college degrees and may fire them, if they don’t have any. I thought it was interesting, reading about how the business side of the Vineyard works. All the food and wine descriptions made my mouth water. I enjoyed the letters from Umberto to Erika. They really helped the story come together. The story had me gripped right from the beginning. The author has a wonderful way with words. I really enjoyed the story.
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June 6, 2023this book follows a woman named Erika Germoglio who has a successful self made career in New York. She also has a fiancé with connections. So she's already doing pretty good, but then her grandfather leaves this huge mansion like house and vineyard to her in his passing even though they never met. She has to travel to Italy for it and meets the estate manager Paolo. But there's a catch, if she wants to keep this new place she has to live there for five months and learn the winemaking business. There's family secrets and a bit of a love triangle romance. This is a debut adult fiction book. This book started with a pretty poem like prelude. I kinda of wish the whole book had been in more of that that format. The story is also broken up into parts. I found the traveling to Italy aspect very intriguing but was bored by the romance in this book. I'd recommend
June 18, 2023
This book takes you straight to Italy! The food, the wine, the language, and the atmosphere!
An unknown relative leaves Erika an entire vineyard in Italy…a little too typical, but there was kind of a twist ending that made it a bit different than similar books.
I enjoyed the characters for the most part, HOWEVER I did not enjoy the new romance aspect of it, which was one of the few reasons I rated this book slightly lower. Family is family, even if you have never met them before and cousins are a big no, no for me. And the Ex seemed a bit childish to me in the end.
I enjoyed all the food throughout this book and if definitely made me hungry, the recipes at the back of this book have definitely been added to my “to make” list.
I enjoyed the side property of the medieval bed and breakfast, however I was definitely wanting more of this little village.
Overall this was a cute quick read and I would definitely try more from this author.
An unknown relative leaves Erika an entire vineyard in Italy…a little too typical, but there was kind of a twist ending that made it a bit different than similar books.
I enjoyed the characters for the most part, HOWEVER I did not enjoy the new romance aspect of it, which was one of the few reasons I rated this book slightly lower. Family is family, even if you have never met them before and cousins are a big no, no for me. And the Ex seemed a bit childish to me in the end.
I enjoyed all the food throughout this book and if definitely made me hungry, the recipes at the back of this book have definitely been added to my “to make” list.
I enjoyed the side property of the medieval bed and breakfast, however I was definitely wanting more of this little village.
Overall this was a cute quick read and I would definitely try more from this author.
October 12, 2023
Erika Germoglio is a self-made woman who has it all—a fancy New York City job and the perfect fiancé. Out of no where, an Italian grandfather she has never met wills to her Casalvento, a house and a vineyard, and Livernano, a medieval village turned bed-and-breakfast, both in Tuscany. When Erika travels to Italy to settle her late grandfather’s affairs, she meets Paolo, Casalvento's handsome estate manager and wine maker. Erika learns that her inheritance comes with a catch—before she can keep or sell Casalvento and Livernano, she must live there and learn the business of the two estates for five months. Should she uproot her life and embrace all Italy has to offer? And if she chooses Italy, which man will be by her side?
Thank you to @netgalley for the ARC. I listened to this on audiobook and the narration was great. The story itself was…fine? The description of the book sounded interesting but in reality it played out as anticlimactic. The most exciting plot points happened within the first 50% of the book, and the remaining portion was basically everyday life on a vineyard and it got boring until the novel’s very end. There were a ton of detailed descriptions of recipes and wine making, which were interesting initially, but got tiring after the first fifty times. Overall the character development was lacking and the writing style and dialogue weren’t particularly engaging to me. Paulo’s character didn’t really have anything interesting to him. His job is just wine. The relationship between Erika and Paulo lacked any modicum of development or nuance; it was sort of just like oh he’s handsome and we’re in love without any sort of relationship building. It just sort of happens, which is basically how the whole book felt—everything just happened without much development, which made me not really care for anything that was going on.
Thank you to @netgalley for the ARC. I listened to this on audiobook and the narration was great. The story itself was…fine? The description of the book sounded interesting but in reality it played out as anticlimactic. The most exciting plot points happened within the first 50% of the book, and the remaining portion was basically everyday life on a vineyard and it got boring until the novel’s very end. There were a ton of detailed descriptions of recipes and wine making, which were interesting initially, but got tiring after the first fifty times. Overall the character development was lacking and the writing style and dialogue weren’t particularly engaging to me. Paulo’s character didn’t really have anything interesting to him. His job is just wine. The relationship between Erika and Paulo lacked any modicum of development or nuance; it was sort of just like oh he’s handsome and we’re in love without any sort of relationship building. It just sort of happens, which is basically how the whole book felt—everything just happened without much development, which made me not really care for anything that was going on.
July 4, 2023
There were a couple aspects of this novel that I enjoyed (the setting and conflict that the main character was facing), but it was hard to avoid the remaining glaring problems that I had with it. From the very beginning, everything felt very predictable to me, which was upsetting given the initial interesting conflict that Erika was facing. Also, I felt that almost every character had super dry, bland dialogue which didn't allow me to connect with the characters as much as I wanted to. The "twist" in the last 10 pages of the story was also very abrupt and strange and didn't make much sense to me. Although it was the one aspect of the story I couldn't predict coming, I wish it was handled a bit differently.
December 30, 2023
This book was a pretty fun read. The FMC is engaged, has a successful business with her best friend, and what appears to be a perfect life when she gets a letter about an inheritance from a long lost grandfather. She goes to Italy intending to sell everything and return to her fiancé and wedding planning but finds a paradise with wonderful people. The book was a little predictable except for the last twist which took me by surprise. I would definitely recommend a read.
Tropes include: fish out of water, friends to lovers, and found family.
Thank you NetGalley and Greenleaf Audiobooks for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Tropes include: fish out of water, friends to lovers, and found family.
Thank you NetGalley and Greenleaf Audiobooks for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
June 19, 2023
Gudrun Cuillo's Casalvento: House of the Wind transports readers to gorgeous Tuscany for a romantic adventure filled with family mysteries. Erika Germoglio, a successful and accomplished lady, unintentionally inherits Livernano, a picturesque mediaeval village turned bed & breakfast, as well as Casalvento, a mansion and vineyard.
Erika meets Paolo, the astute, kind, and stunningly handsome estate manager and winemaker of Casalvento, as she travels to Italy to collect her inheritance. Erika must spend five months in Tuscany working on the estates as part of the inheritance's requirement that she lives there. Erika is forced to choose if she should leave her life in New York and seize the opportunities and challenges that Italy has to offer as a result of this choice.
Erika struggles with the decision of whether to choose her existing life or the temptation of a fresh start while surrounded by romantic vineyards and ancient settings. She also has to deal with her fiancé's unexpected reactions, the mysteries contained in a collection of letters left by her late grandfather, and her feelings every time she comes into contact with Paolo.
Cuillo does an excellent job of capturing the colourful spirit of Tuscany, as well as the breathtaking scenery and the extensive winemaking traditions. Readers can experience the sights, smells, and tastes of the Italian countryside by entering Casalvento through the author's meticulous attention to detail and descriptive writing style.
With their own complexity and unique paths, the characters in Casalvento are well-rounded and relatable. Erika's inner conflict, split between obligation and the quest for happiness, gives her character depth, and Paolo's charm and enthusiasm for winemaking make him an alluring potential love interest. Readers who love suspenseful, absorbing romance novels with a hint of mystery will adore Casalvento. Readers who enjoy Gudrun Cuillo's portrayal of love, family, and self-discovery against the picturesque backdrop of Tuscany will be inspired to travel to Italy themselves. This novel will enthral you and serve as a reminder of the transformative power of love and the enchantment that exists within the region of Tuscany, whether you enjoy romance or simply enjoy the charm of that region.
Fans of mystery and romance will find "Casalvento" to be a gripping and delightful read that will take them to a world of intrigue and passion. Gudrun Cuillo's book delivers a delightful voyage through the allure and secrets of Casalvento with its evocative prose, compelling characters, and complex plot.
Erika meets Paolo, the astute, kind, and stunningly handsome estate manager and winemaker of Casalvento, as she travels to Italy to collect her inheritance. Erika must spend five months in Tuscany working on the estates as part of the inheritance's requirement that she lives there. Erika is forced to choose if she should leave her life in New York and seize the opportunities and challenges that Italy has to offer as a result of this choice.
Erika struggles with the decision of whether to choose her existing life or the temptation of a fresh start while surrounded by romantic vineyards and ancient settings. She also has to deal with her fiancé's unexpected reactions, the mysteries contained in a collection of letters left by her late grandfather, and her feelings every time she comes into contact with Paolo.
Cuillo does an excellent job of capturing the colourful spirit of Tuscany, as well as the breathtaking scenery and the extensive winemaking traditions. Readers can experience the sights, smells, and tastes of the Italian countryside by entering Casalvento through the author's meticulous attention to detail and descriptive writing style.
With their own complexity and unique paths, the characters in Casalvento are well-rounded and relatable. Erika's inner conflict, split between obligation and the quest for happiness, gives her character depth, and Paolo's charm and enthusiasm for winemaking make him an alluring potential love interest. Readers who love suspenseful, absorbing romance novels with a hint of mystery will adore Casalvento. Readers who enjoy Gudrun Cuillo's portrayal of love, family, and self-discovery against the picturesque backdrop of Tuscany will be inspired to travel to Italy themselves. This novel will enthral you and serve as a reminder of the transformative power of love and the enchantment that exists within the region of Tuscany, whether you enjoy romance or simply enjoy the charm of that region.
Fans of mystery and romance will find "Casalvento" to be a gripping and delightful read that will take them to a world of intrigue and passion. Gudrun Cuillo's book delivers a delightful voyage through the allure and secrets of Casalvento with its evocative prose, compelling characters, and complex plot.
June 29, 2023
This one was an interesting read for me. I do not know much about Italy, the winemaking business or becoming the owner of such a grand adventure, but I enjoyed it for the most part. I felt like the author did an amazing job of researching, setting the plot/location of the story up and giving the reader a fun read, but the characters needed work, the surprise twist was just EH, and the reality of the way that things unfolded left the reader shaking their head know that it wouldn't have happened this way.
The main character was a bit unlikeable, the minor characters all needed some work to bring them together more and the plot was a bit weak. I liked the descriptions of the areas, the wine making and the fresh start, but again there were areas that needed work.
An overall ok read, one that I would recommend you add to your TBR list, but no need to move it to the top of the list. I will read more by this author in the future because I feel that they have the potential to do amazing things!
The main character was a bit unlikeable, the minor characters all needed some work to bring them together more and the plot was a bit weak. I liked the descriptions of the areas, the wine making and the fresh start, but again there were areas that needed work.
An overall ok read, one that I would recommend you add to your TBR list, but no need to move it to the top of the list. I will read more by this author in the future because I feel that they have the potential to do amazing things!
December 12, 2023
This was a beautiful love letter to Tuscany. So much care was taken to illustrate the lush countryside, describe Italian customs and traditions, and detail the complexities of winemaking. The author’s appreciation for Italy certainly shines through her writing.
The difficulty I had getting through this story fell to the character interactions. Very rarely did a conversation come across as organic, and even rarer did they flow smoothly. Characters seemed to offer an over abundance of information in stilted conversation, resulting in detail overload. And finally, it seemed like characters were emotionally flat, lacking any chemistry. The author did not offer tonal hints, facial expressions, or verbal exchanges within the writing to describe emotion within a scene. I would’ve liked to have seen more dynamic characters within the story.
I felt pretty neutral while reading, leaning 2.5 stars. However, the recipes at the end of the book were a nice touch. My little Italian heart has been won over.
I won this in a Goodreads Giveaway.
The difficulty I had getting through this story fell to the character interactions. Very rarely did a conversation come across as organic, and even rarer did they flow smoothly. Characters seemed to offer an over abundance of information in stilted conversation, resulting in detail overload. And finally, it seemed like characters were emotionally flat, lacking any chemistry. The author did not offer tonal hints, facial expressions, or verbal exchanges within the writing to describe emotion within a scene. I would’ve liked to have seen more dynamic characters within the story.
I felt pretty neutral while reading, leaning 2.5 stars. However, the recipes at the end of the book were a nice touch. My little Italian heart has been won over.
I won this in a Goodreads Giveaway.
June 26, 2023
Casalvento: House Of The Wind is a beautifully written romance book! This book is outside of my comfort genre, so I wasn’t a hundred percent sure what to expect when I originally picked this book up. This book follows Erika Germoglio who has a successful career as she inherits a house, vineyard and bed and breakfast in Italy. She quickly learns that the inheritance comes with a catch, she must learn the business of the two estates within five months. She had to leave her home and fiancé behind to settle the affairs of inheritance and once in Italy she met Paolo, the estate manager and winemaker which gave this book a bit of a love triangle.
The author’s descriptive writing makes you feel like you are right there in Italy with the characters and turns this book into a very atmospheric read. Overall this was a good romantic read that I can see many people enjoying in the summertime.
The author’s descriptive writing makes you feel like you are right there in Italy with the characters and turns this book into a very atmospheric read. Overall this was a good romantic read that I can see many people enjoying in the summertime.
January 8, 2024
Thank you to the publishers, author and NetGalley for the free copy of this audio book.
I did NOT like the main character at all at first but as she grew on me as she changed and adapted to her new life. Well written, and although I saw the twist at the end coming it was still enjoyable. The narrator did a good job as well.
I did NOT like the main character at all at first but as she grew on me as she changed and adapted to her new life. Well written, and although I saw the twist at the end coming it was still enjoyable. The narrator did a good job as well.
June 8, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley, Green Leaf Book Group, & Gudrun Cuillo for the Audiobook arc of Casalvento.
I'll start this review off by saying this is definitely not my usual genre to partake in, but something about the cover & plot caught my attention. This is also not usually how I take in my books. Audiobooks are a struggle for me but I really want to be better with the format for various different reasons. With all that being said, I LOVED this book quite a lot. The biggest thing about Casalvento is that even though I've never been anywhere close to Italy, Cuillo transported me there in such a delicate & beautiful way.
This was my first 5 star read/listen for 2024 & that brings a certain kind of joy to me because I fully believe it's well deserved. The characters, the plot, the setting, were all just delightfully well done & executed. Erica is uptight & very business woman in the beginning but you need to see that side of her so you can witness her character growth as she transitions from New York life to Italian countryside. The side characters were flushed out just as well too & I absolutely want to try all the food mentioned in the book!
I'm curious to see what else Cuillo has in store if she chooses to write more books because this was just absolutely stellar for me!
I'll start this review off by saying this is definitely not my usual genre to partake in, but something about the cover & plot caught my attention. This is also not usually how I take in my books. Audiobooks are a struggle for me but I really want to be better with the format for various different reasons. With all that being said, I LOVED this book quite a lot. The biggest thing about Casalvento is that even though I've never been anywhere close to Italy, Cuillo transported me there in such a delicate & beautiful way.
This was my first 5 star read/listen for 2024 & that brings a certain kind of joy to me because I fully believe it's well deserved. The characters, the plot, the setting, were all just delightfully well done & executed. Erica is uptight & very business woman in the beginning but you need to see that side of her so you can witness her character growth as she transitions from New York life to Italian countryside. The side characters were flushed out just as well too & I absolutely want to try all the food mentioned in the book!
I'm curious to see what else Cuillo has in store if she chooses to write more books because this was just absolutely stellar for me!
July 3, 2023
I tried to like this one, I really did, but at 30% I had to DNF. Based on other reviews I knew this was going to be really cheesy and Hallmark-esque. That isn’t a bad thing but when the writing is terrible I have to draw the line somewhere. This read like a book written by an AI. The dialogue was unrealistic and cringy at best. None of the characters stood out in any meaningful way: they were all “nice” or spoke Italian or thought Erika’s grandfather was amazing. I wasn’t able to differentiate between them at a certain point. For Erika herself she is wholly unlikable (which I take offense to as my name is Erika LOL). She’s extremely rude, impatient, and acts like a standard entitled American who thinks the world revolves around her. I couldn’t see the majority of this plot actually happening in the real world because my times living in Europe did not match with this. I wanted to fall in love with it, but even the setting was poorly described and I was unable to immerse myself.
February 9, 2024
I was not prepared to love 'Casalvento' as much as did. In fact, I cried at the ending and books very rarely move me to tears. I was first drawn to the book by the cover art and name which reminded me of a long ago favorite, 'Cashelmara' by Susan Howatch. The storyline in 'Casalvento' unfolded as I anticipated, but kept me highly engaged and anxious to pick the book back up from beginning to end. I might have known the ending was going to sneak up on me, but just wow. I truly loved all the characters from Erika, Santo and Paola to Franco and Vincenzo. I was also enthralled to note that the book is based on Gudrun Cuillo's passions in life. I am not a wine connoisseur, am not Italian and haven't been to Italy but I would love to go and see the country and will try some of the recipes! Thanks to BookishFirst and Greenleaf Book Group for getting a copy in my hand. I loved it! 5 Stars!
February 6, 2025
DNF- I couldn’t get on board with this book unfortunately. It read like something a high schooler would write. Idk, the writing was just not for me.
July 8, 2023
When does a young lady become a woman, or, better put, what happens to a young lady that makes her earn this status, that is what we find when reading Gudrun Cuillo's new release, Casalvento: House of the Wind- in my humble opinion. Cuillo's book is not one where the main character, Erika Germoglio, comes of age or losses her innocence (although the latter may be a small part of the story), but one where she gains her first small part of the knowledge and wisdom about the truth of the people of the world and in her life, what is truly important, and how to go on despite many broken hurdles. Plus, Erika learns what she can do on her own, even though she never had anyone doing anything in her life other than stand by her side. Readers learn quickly that the poor girl was more alone before she was literally, truly alone- when she is rid of her nefarious fiancee. Embracing womanhood, embracing what was and what can be because of it, that is what I found when reading Casalvento: House of the Wind.
When Erika receives the call that a grandfather in Italy she didn't know had died, that he left her an inheritance comes as a large surprise to the young woman. And when she gets to the country, she finds two large estates that produce wine and pleasure for those who travel to stay there. And as she stays on and learns more about the business, Erika wonders more and more about the family she never knew.
What I loved as a reader about Cuillo is that through Erika readers learn a lot about wine, specifically, Italian wine. Even as a rare social drinker I found the information that was interspersed with the story interesting and something I wanted to know about. The author keeps the knowledge entertaining- never too much or too little. So as Erika learns about her grandfather's Italian wine, so do readers. Also, as Erika is taken in by her grandfather’s family, the family he made after he left America, so is Erika, along with readers. It is very much a story about what can be made out of life after things are lost, after losing everything, really. Because, as we see here, with Erika, there is always something left to make a life for yourself.
Sadly Erika had been left alone young when her parents were killed in an accident. The only person she has had in her life that has remained constant is her boyfriend of many years Craig, who recently proposed and asks her to set the date for their wedding. However when her grandfather passes and she leaves Craig to his own devices, she finds more out than she ever wanted to about the man she is to marry. When she returns to Italy, they split for a time. As a reader, personally, I was hoping forever.
However in Italy Erika soon finds out about a provision in her grandfather's will- that Erika must stay on the estate and in the country for almost half a year before she can sell any of the property. But when her grandfather's lawyers begin to deliver the many letters he wrote to her before his death, Erika begins to learn about a family story that has been long dead, one that changed the course of her life, long before she was born.
After all Erika learns in Italy, in the letters from her grandfather, the last link Eirka has on earth to family (sadly, are letters), will she stay and embrace a culture that was once alien but feels so much now, like home? The book isn’t without its villains as there are a cast of characters who want the property, think it should have gone to them before the American granddaughter- will Eirka let herself be chased away from the only place she has a connection to family?
Casalvento: House of the Wind is about an Italian American immigrant who started a family and then went home to Italy, having to leave behind what was in America. Then, his granddaughter is left all that he made in his country, and with no family of her own living, is left his story, his life. She leaves America to learn it and may stay. If this isn’t enticing enough to have you pick up a copy, there is also the Italian love interest, a man who was her grandfather's right hand man, who becomes a large part of Erika’s life, and maybe her heart. As part Italian American myself (through my father’s father), the story really spoke to me as I think it will many others who have relatives from Italy or other countries!
It was- very Happy Reading!
When Erika receives the call that a grandfather in Italy she didn't know had died, that he left her an inheritance comes as a large surprise to the young woman. And when she gets to the country, she finds two large estates that produce wine and pleasure for those who travel to stay there. And as she stays on and learns more about the business, Erika wonders more and more about the family she never knew.
What I loved as a reader about Cuillo is that through Erika readers learn a lot about wine, specifically, Italian wine. Even as a rare social drinker I found the information that was interspersed with the story interesting and something I wanted to know about. The author keeps the knowledge entertaining- never too much or too little. So as Erika learns about her grandfather's Italian wine, so do readers. Also, as Erika is taken in by her grandfather’s family, the family he made after he left America, so is Erika, along with readers. It is very much a story about what can be made out of life after things are lost, after losing everything, really. Because, as we see here, with Erika, there is always something left to make a life for yourself.
Sadly Erika had been left alone young when her parents were killed in an accident. The only person she has had in her life that has remained constant is her boyfriend of many years Craig, who recently proposed and asks her to set the date for their wedding. However when her grandfather passes and she leaves Craig to his own devices, she finds more out than she ever wanted to about the man she is to marry. When she returns to Italy, they split for a time. As a reader, personally, I was hoping forever.
However in Italy Erika soon finds out about a provision in her grandfather's will- that Erika must stay on the estate and in the country for almost half a year before she can sell any of the property. But when her grandfather's lawyers begin to deliver the many letters he wrote to her before his death, Erika begins to learn about a family story that has been long dead, one that changed the course of her life, long before she was born.
After all Erika learns in Italy, in the letters from her grandfather, the last link Eirka has on earth to family (sadly, are letters), will she stay and embrace a culture that was once alien but feels so much now, like home? The book isn’t without its villains as there are a cast of characters who want the property, think it should have gone to them before the American granddaughter- will Eirka let herself be chased away from the only place she has a connection to family?
Casalvento: House of the Wind is about an Italian American immigrant who started a family and then went home to Italy, having to leave behind what was in America. Then, his granddaughter is left all that he made in his country, and with no family of her own living, is left his story, his life. She leaves America to learn it and may stay. If this isn’t enticing enough to have you pick up a copy, there is also the Italian love interest, a man who was her grandfather's right hand man, who becomes a large part of Erika’s life, and maybe her heart. As part Italian American myself (through my father’s father), the story really spoke to me as I think it will many others who have relatives from Italy or other countries!
It was- very Happy Reading!
September 27, 2023
Book Title: Casalvento: House of the Wind
Author: Gudrun Cuillo
Narrator: Maria Marquis
Publisher: Greenleaf Audiobooks – Greenleaf Book Group Press
Genre: Romance, Women’s Fiction
Audiobook Pub Date: October 17, 2023
My Rating: 4.5 stars
Pages: 315
Erika Germoglio is a self-made woman who has it all. She has a successful career and is about to marry her fiancé Craig Bernhardt, who is a prominent real estate lawyer—the two of them have nothing but best in front of them.
When Erika turns thirty Craig gives her a new larger engagement ring and says it is time to move up the wedding date. They now can afford to move out of their little NYC apartment and move to a home in the Hamptons
As Erika is making weeding plans, she gets a message that her grandfather - whom she never met, has left her his estate and vineyard in Italy.
At first Erika is shocked and says no way was she going to accept it perhaps if it were a vineyard in Napa she would consider it. (Have to admit I laughed out oud as I live in California and do love our California wine county but Napa is not Tuscany!).
She heads to Italy with the intension of selling her inheritance. However, learns it comes with the condition - she must live there for five months and learn the business.
The narrator Maria Marquis did a fantastic performance. Her accent is beautiful - she totally had me transported to Tuscany
Have to admit I am not a big romance fan. But when I read something Romance author Katherine Center said it has made me look at romance stories a bit differently. She said that many readers say they don’t like romance stories as they are so predictable. She goes on to say that reading romance stories is fun.~ they give us the sense that something is going to get better; something to look forward to.
Yep! This was a fun read – I highly recommended it to a reader who is in the mood for as story with likeable character, food and wine that will made you want to book a flight to Tuscany or at lease to your local favorite Italian restaurant.
Have to admit since I read a lot of mystery thrillers, I did figure out the bit of mystery in this story as my arm chair detective skills were on high alert. I wasn’t surprised by the ending but I still loved it!!
I enjoyed the “About the Author” -loved that this story is based on Gudrun Cuillo's life experiences. Yes she and her husband own a winery in Tuscany!
BTW: There is a bonus at the end of the novel - .
Includes the following recipes: Pennee Della Nonna, Pasta E Fagioli, Linguine Con Cozze E Vongole.
Want to thank NetGalley and Greenleaf Audiobooks/Greenleaf Book Group Press for this totally enjoyable audiobook.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for October 17, 2023.
Author: Gudrun Cuillo
Narrator: Maria Marquis
Publisher: Greenleaf Audiobooks – Greenleaf Book Group Press
Genre: Romance, Women’s Fiction
Audiobook Pub Date: October 17, 2023
My Rating: 4.5 stars
Pages: 315
Erika Germoglio is a self-made woman who has it all. She has a successful career and is about to marry her fiancé Craig Bernhardt, who is a prominent real estate lawyer—the two of them have nothing but best in front of them.
When Erika turns thirty Craig gives her a new larger engagement ring and says it is time to move up the wedding date. They now can afford to move out of their little NYC apartment and move to a home in the Hamptons
As Erika is making weeding plans, she gets a message that her grandfather - whom she never met, has left her his estate and vineyard in Italy.
At first Erika is shocked and says no way was she going to accept it perhaps if it were a vineyard in Napa she would consider it. (Have to admit I laughed out oud as I live in California and do love our California wine county but Napa is not Tuscany!).
She heads to Italy with the intension of selling her inheritance. However, learns it comes with the condition - she must live there for five months and learn the business.
The narrator Maria Marquis did a fantastic performance. Her accent is beautiful - she totally had me transported to Tuscany
Have to admit I am not a big romance fan. But when I read something Romance author Katherine Center said it has made me look at romance stories a bit differently. She said that many readers say they don’t like romance stories as they are so predictable. She goes on to say that reading romance stories is fun.~ they give us the sense that something is going to get better; something to look forward to.
Yep! This was a fun read – I highly recommended it to a reader who is in the mood for as story with likeable character, food and wine that will made you want to book a flight to Tuscany or at lease to your local favorite Italian restaurant.
Have to admit since I read a lot of mystery thrillers, I did figure out the bit of mystery in this story as my arm chair detective skills were on high alert. I wasn’t surprised by the ending but I still loved it!!
I enjoyed the “About the Author” -loved that this story is based on Gudrun Cuillo's life experiences. Yes she and her husband own a winery in Tuscany!
BTW: There is a bonus at the end of the novel - .
Includes the following recipes: Pennee Della Nonna, Pasta E Fagioli, Linguine Con Cozze E Vongole.
Want to thank NetGalley and Greenleaf Audiobooks/Greenleaf Book Group Press for this totally enjoyable audiobook.
Publishing Release Date scheduled for October 17, 2023.
October 23, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Greenleaf Audiobooks for sending this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Erika is sitting in the kitchen of her grandfather’s Tuscan estate with friends from America. She can’t believe that just a few months ago she was building a business and a life back in New York until she received a letter from her grandfather’s attorney: he was gone and she inherited everything. There’s a catch though – she had to live on the estate for 5 months before she could assume control. Erika fought that plan and initial wanted to sell the property. But after 5 months, she’s fallen in love with the estate…and so much more.
Casalvento is Gudrun Cuillo’s debut novel, pulling from her own experiences to deliver a beautiful tale of finding yourself in the circumstances in front of you. Capped with a section of delicious story-inspired recipes and wine pairings, this book delivers details of Tuscany only someone living in the area and in love with the community could describe. Cuillo’s own wine estates are the setting for this story of growth, finding your true passion, and giving in to love.
I give Casalvento 4 out of 5 stars. I enjoyed the dialogue between Erika and her staff about the area, the wine making process, and the food – you can tell the author built these off her own interactions. However, I did notice a handful of errors in the timeline for certain migrations to America and other events discussed. These did not impact the storyline, but were a thorn for my personal reading. I also grew frustrated with some of the attention directed towards the housekeeper early on, leading readers to believe she was a dark character looking to do harm to Erika. This frustration popped back up at the end when the cousin who was a true dark character was suddenly very happy and excited for Erika to take over the property. However, I appreciate the slow reveal of the romance between Erika and her true love later in the book. The lack of speed with this development gave it authenticity.
If you love Frances Mayes’ Under the Tuscan Sun or Elizabeth Gilbert’s Eat Pray Love, this book is for you! With the common theme of leaving New York for Italy, loss of a relationship, and finding yourself, this trio of books from writers with very different backgrounds belong together. I would also recommend this book as a book club read – there’s so much to unpack in each chapter!
In October, I realized I was going to have some time open time in my audiobook schedule. I was excited when I saw this on NetGalley and was immediately drawn to it by the cover – a beautiful Tuscan landscape with grape vines and lemon trees. I was not disappointed! If you are looking for your next audiobook, pick this one up! Casalvento is now available for purchase from your favorite bookseller!
Erika is sitting in the kitchen of her grandfather’s Tuscan estate with friends from America. She can’t believe that just a few months ago she was building a business and a life back in New York until she received a letter from her grandfather’s attorney: he was gone and she inherited everything. There’s a catch though – she had to live on the estate for 5 months before she could assume control. Erika fought that plan and initial wanted to sell the property. But after 5 months, she’s fallen in love with the estate…and so much more.
Casalvento is Gudrun Cuillo’s debut novel, pulling from her own experiences to deliver a beautiful tale of finding yourself in the circumstances in front of you. Capped with a section of delicious story-inspired recipes and wine pairings, this book delivers details of Tuscany only someone living in the area and in love with the community could describe. Cuillo’s own wine estates are the setting for this story of growth, finding your true passion, and giving in to love.
I give Casalvento 4 out of 5 stars. I enjoyed the dialogue between Erika and her staff about the area, the wine making process, and the food – you can tell the author built these off her own interactions. However, I did notice a handful of errors in the timeline for certain migrations to America and other events discussed. These did not impact the storyline, but were a thorn for my personal reading. I also grew frustrated with some of the attention directed towards the housekeeper early on, leading readers to believe she was a dark character looking to do harm to Erika. This frustration popped back up at the end when the cousin who was a true dark character was suddenly very happy and excited for Erika to take over the property. However, I appreciate the slow reveal of the romance between Erika and her true love later in the book. The lack of speed with this development gave it authenticity.
If you love Frances Mayes’ Under the Tuscan Sun or Elizabeth Gilbert’s Eat Pray Love, this book is for you! With the common theme of leaving New York for Italy, loss of a relationship, and finding yourself, this trio of books from writers with very different backgrounds belong together. I would also recommend this book as a book club read – there’s so much to unpack in each chapter!
In October, I realized I was going to have some time open time in my audiobook schedule. I was excited when I saw this on NetGalley and was immediately drawn to it by the cover – a beautiful Tuscan landscape with grape vines and lemon trees. I was not disappointed! If you are looking for your next audiobook, pick this one up! Casalvento is now available for purchase from your favorite bookseller!
November 1, 2023
Casalvento is an enchanting story that transported me from the bustling streets of New York to the sun-kissed vineyards of Tuscany, weaving a tale of transformation, love and self-discovery. This novel is a delightful blend of romance, business acumen, and the beauty of cultural exploration.
Erika Germoglio is a successful businesswoman living in New York city, whose life takes an unexpected turn when she inherits from her grandfather, a vineyard and a medieval village turned bed=and=breakfast, in Tuscany. Initially, the narrative presents a picturesque tableau of her idyllic life in the city, complete with a loving, successful, fiance and a thriving business. However, her journey truly begins when she embarks on a voyage to Italy, intending to sell her inheritance but ends up finding a profound connection with the land and the people.
What makes this book a compelling read is the author's skillful storytelling, which vividly paints the contrasting landscapes of urban America and rural Tuscany. Erika's transformation from a savvy entrepreneur to a passionate wine connoisseur is beautifully depicted, making the evolution relatable and inspiring. The descriptions of the vineyards, the winemaking process and the culinary delights of the region are so richly detailed that I could almost taste the exquisite wines and savor the delectable Italian dishes described with the pages.
The characters in Casalvento are well-crafted and endearing, especially the handsome manager, Paolo, of the vineyard, who becomes Erika's mentor. Their relationship forms the emotional core of the story, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. The supporting cast, including the women from her New York business, adds layers to Erika's journey, highlighting the importance of friendship, solidarity, and collaboration in both personal and professional spheres.
The novel brilliantly captures the essence of Tuscany - its warm hospitality, the people that work at the vineyard and their families, its vibrant culture and timeless beauty. As Erika immerses herself in the intricacies of winemaking and hospitality, I was intrigued by the regions captivating traditions and history.
Casalvento is a heartwarming story of embracing change, following one's passion, and finding unexpected love in the most unlikely places. It reminds readers that life's most fulfilling journeys often begin with a single unanticipated step. This book is not just a tale of romance and business, it's a celebration of the human spirit and the transformative power of embracing new experiences. Anyone seeking a captivating read filled with romance, culture and the allure of the Italian countryside will find Casalvento an absolute delight to indulge in.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me the audiobook to listen to, pror to publishing.
Erika Germoglio is a successful businesswoman living in New York city, whose life takes an unexpected turn when she inherits from her grandfather, a vineyard and a medieval village turned bed=and=breakfast, in Tuscany. Initially, the narrative presents a picturesque tableau of her idyllic life in the city, complete with a loving, successful, fiance and a thriving business. However, her journey truly begins when she embarks on a voyage to Italy, intending to sell her inheritance but ends up finding a profound connection with the land and the people.
What makes this book a compelling read is the author's skillful storytelling, which vividly paints the contrasting landscapes of urban America and rural Tuscany. Erika's transformation from a savvy entrepreneur to a passionate wine connoisseur is beautifully depicted, making the evolution relatable and inspiring. The descriptions of the vineyards, the winemaking process and the culinary delights of the region are so richly detailed that I could almost taste the exquisite wines and savor the delectable Italian dishes described with the pages.
The characters in Casalvento are well-crafted and endearing, especially the handsome manager, Paolo, of the vineyard, who becomes Erika's mentor. Their relationship forms the emotional core of the story, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. The supporting cast, including the women from her New York business, adds layers to Erika's journey, highlighting the importance of friendship, solidarity, and collaboration in both personal and professional spheres.
The novel brilliantly captures the essence of Tuscany - its warm hospitality, the people that work at the vineyard and their families, its vibrant culture and timeless beauty. As Erika immerses herself in the intricacies of winemaking and hospitality, I was intrigued by the regions captivating traditions and history.
Casalvento is a heartwarming story of embracing change, following one's passion, and finding unexpected love in the most unlikely places. It reminds readers that life's most fulfilling journeys often begin with a single unanticipated step. This book is not just a tale of romance and business, it's a celebration of the human spirit and the transformative power of embracing new experiences. Anyone seeking a captivating read filled with romance, culture and the allure of the Italian countryside will find Casalvento an absolute delight to indulge in.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing me the audiobook to listen to, pror to publishing.
June 11, 2023
In a literary world filled with predictable romances, Gudrun Cuillo's "Casalvento: House of the Wind" sweeps readers away on a journey of passion, love, and self-discovery. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Tuscan countryside, this captivating novel captures the essence of romance.
Cuillo's writing pulls at the heartstrings and immerses the reader in a world of longing and desire. With vivid descriptions, Cuillo paints a vivid picture of Casalvento, an enchanting villa nestled amidst rolling hills and vineyards. The setting becomes a character of its own, a witness to the unfolding love story that unfolds within its walls.
At the heart of the tale is Isabella, a young woman with dreams as vast as the Tuscan sky. Her journey takes an unexpected turn when she meets Luca, a charismatic and brooding Italian artist. The chemistry between the two is palpable from the moment they first lock eyes, and their connection deepens with each passing page.
“Casalvento: House of the Wind" has depth and complexity. Cuillo weaves together themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, creating a multi-layered narrative that keeps the reader engaged until the very last word. The characters are beautifully developed, each with their own quirks, insecurities, and desires, making them relatable and authentic.
The romance between Isabella and Luca is portrayed with a delicate touch, balancing passion and tenderness. Their love affair is not without obstacles, as they navigate their own personal demons and the challenges that life throws their way. It is through these trials that their love is tested, and their growth as individuals becomes intertwined with the growth of their relationship.
Cuillo's prose is poetic and evocative, capturing the essence of love in all its forms. She explores the intricacies of human emotions, investigating the depths of the characters' hearts and minds. Her descriptions of the Tuscan landscape transport the reader to a place where beauty and passion collide, adding an additional layer of enchantment to the story.
"Casalvento: House of the Wind" is a love letter to the power of love and the resilience of the human spirit. It reminds us that love can heal wounds, awaken dormant dreams, and bring solace in the darkest of times. Cuillo's writing is captivating, and her ability to convey the complexities of love is remarkable.
For fans of romance novels seeking a tale that goes beyond superficial love stories, "Casalvento: House of the Wind" is an absolute must-read. Gudrun Cuillo's masterful storytelling will leave you breathless, yearning for more, and believing in the transformative power of love.
Cuillo's writing pulls at the heartstrings and immerses the reader in a world of longing and desire. With vivid descriptions, Cuillo paints a vivid picture of Casalvento, an enchanting villa nestled amidst rolling hills and vineyards. The setting becomes a character of its own, a witness to the unfolding love story that unfolds within its walls.
At the heart of the tale is Isabella, a young woman with dreams as vast as the Tuscan sky. Her journey takes an unexpected turn when she meets Luca, a charismatic and brooding Italian artist. The chemistry between the two is palpable from the moment they first lock eyes, and their connection deepens with each passing page.
“Casalvento: House of the Wind" has depth and complexity. Cuillo weaves together themes of love, loss, and self-discovery, creating a multi-layered narrative that keeps the reader engaged until the very last word. The characters are beautifully developed, each with their own quirks, insecurities, and desires, making them relatable and authentic.
The romance between Isabella and Luca is portrayed with a delicate touch, balancing passion and tenderness. Their love affair is not without obstacles, as they navigate their own personal demons and the challenges that life throws their way. It is through these trials that their love is tested, and their growth as individuals becomes intertwined with the growth of their relationship.
Cuillo's prose is poetic and evocative, capturing the essence of love in all its forms. She explores the intricacies of human emotions, investigating the depths of the characters' hearts and minds. Her descriptions of the Tuscan landscape transport the reader to a place where beauty and passion collide, adding an additional layer of enchantment to the story.
"Casalvento: House of the Wind" is a love letter to the power of love and the resilience of the human spirit. It reminds us that love can heal wounds, awaken dormant dreams, and bring solace in the darkest of times. Cuillo's writing is captivating, and her ability to convey the complexities of love is remarkable.
For fans of romance novels seeking a tale that goes beyond superficial love stories, "Casalvento: House of the Wind" is an absolute must-read. Gudrun Cuillo's masterful storytelling will leave you breathless, yearning for more, and believing in the transformative power of love.
July 15, 2023
I love novels set in Italy; it is such a beautiful country with rich, varies and wonderful traditions; As soon a I knew Gudrun Cuillo’s book, Casalvento, was set in Italy, it became a must-read. Like any good novel, it sent me down the Google rabbit hole of researching the “House of the Wind.” I learned that it is set in the real Casalvento (House of the Wind) of Radda and Livernano in Chianti Siena, Italy. I am especially appreciative that the publishers include a small map on the inside cover to help me understand exactly where it is located.
The protagonist, Erika Germoglio, is so unhappy that she doesn’t know that she is unhappy. Oh, she has a successful consulting business, a high-profile fiancé, an exquisitely decorated Manhattan Upper Side apartment and she finally has se a wedding date. Erika’s life is black and white, literally. The apartment she shares with Craig is decorated in black and white, and the only two colors in her closet are black and white.
She has never been busier when she is notified that her grandfather has passed away and left her “Casalvento, a house and a vineyard, and Livernano, a medieval village turned bed-and-breakfast, both in the Chianti region of Tuscany.”
A grandfather? She never knew that she had a living relative! And why did he never try to contact her, especially when her parents died? Those answers await willing readers!
She heads to Italy, intent on selling everything so she can get back to her real life. However, there is a clause in her grandfather’s that “to keep or sell Casalvento and Livernano, she must live there and learn the business of the two estates for five months.”
Furious and agitated agrees to wait out the will’s terms, then sell it and move on with her life. Especially her long-awaited marriage to Craig.
Unable to relax enjoy the scenery, Erika helps in the winery and the vineyards as the days go by and Erika comes to know the people who worked for her grandfather, she finds herself increasingly drawn to the slower pace of life that Italy offers. Plus, she is drawn more and more to “Paolo, Casalvento's intelligent, compassionate, and strikingly handsome estate manager and wine maker.”
As her feelings for Paolo intensify, she knows she must make her choice between the two men, and the life each has to offer. While Erika struggles to make plans, her grandfather’s lawyer gives her letters, four in total, that he left behind explaining his reasoning.
Although the novel is predictable, there were a couple of gasp-worthy twists that made me keep reading., Casalvento (House of the Wind) receives 4 out of 5 stars in Julie’s world.
The protagonist, Erika Germoglio, is so unhappy that she doesn’t know that she is unhappy. Oh, she has a successful consulting business, a high-profile fiancé, an exquisitely decorated Manhattan Upper Side apartment and she finally has se a wedding date. Erika’s life is black and white, literally. The apartment she shares with Craig is decorated in black and white, and the only two colors in her closet are black and white.
She has never been busier when she is notified that her grandfather has passed away and left her “Casalvento, a house and a vineyard, and Livernano, a medieval village turned bed-and-breakfast, both in the Chianti region of Tuscany.”
A grandfather? She never knew that she had a living relative! And why did he never try to contact her, especially when her parents died? Those answers await willing readers!
She heads to Italy, intent on selling everything so she can get back to her real life. However, there is a clause in her grandfather’s that “to keep or sell Casalvento and Livernano, she must live there and learn the business of the two estates for five months.”
Furious and agitated agrees to wait out the will’s terms, then sell it and move on with her life. Especially her long-awaited marriage to Craig.
Unable to relax enjoy the scenery, Erika helps in the winery and the vineyards as the days go by and Erika comes to know the people who worked for her grandfather, she finds herself increasingly drawn to the slower pace of life that Italy offers. Plus, she is drawn more and more to “Paolo, Casalvento's intelligent, compassionate, and strikingly handsome estate manager and wine maker.”
As her feelings for Paolo intensify, she knows she must make her choice between the two men, and the life each has to offer. While Erika struggles to make plans, her grandfather’s lawyer gives her letters, four in total, that he left behind explaining his reasoning.
Although the novel is predictable, there were a couple of gasp-worthy twists that made me keep reading., Casalvento (House of the Wind) receives 4 out of 5 stars in Julie’s world.
October 22, 2023
Format: Audiobook
ARC: Netgalley
Rating:4⭐⭐⭐⭐
In Gudrun Cuillo's debut novel, "Casalvento - House of the Wind," readers are transported to the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany, where romance and family secrets converge in a compelling narrative. This story, published by Greenleaf Audiobooks and Greenleaf Book Group Press on October 17, 2023,
Erika Germoglio initially seems to have it all—a flourishing career and a well-connected fiancé. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she inherits Casalvento, a charming Italian house and vineyard, from a grandfather she never knew existed. As she travels to Italy to unravel the complexities of her newfound inheritance, Erika encounters Paolo, the estate manager and winemaker at Casalvento, who is intelligent, compassionate, and strikingly handsome. Her journey of discovery and transformation is at the heart of this narrative.
One of the book's standout strengths is its well-drawn characters, with Paolo being a particularly memorable figure. Gudrun Cuillo masterfully crafts multi-dimensional characters, deeply connecting readers to their experiences. The emotional journey of Erika and her quest to understand her Italian heritage create an engaging and relatable narrative.
The novel's vivid and immersive descriptions of Tuscany lend an atmospheric quality to the story. Readers will find themselves longing to visit the picturesque landscapes described within the pages, as Cuillo's prose effectively transports them to this enchanting setting.
While the vineyard is central to the story's setting and theme, some readers may find the frequent mentions of wine a tad excessive. Nonetheless, this aspect does not significantly detract from the narrative's overall enjoyment.
In the audiobook version of "Casalvento," the narration by Maria Marquis is a standout feature. Her voice is soothing and easy to listen to, immersing readers in the story. Marquis's narration remains clear and understandable, even at 1.75x speed for those who prefer to listen at an accelerated pace. The slight accent adds an authentic touch to the narrative without hindering the dialogue between characters, making it an excellent choice for audiobook enthusiasts.
In conclusion, "Casalvento - House of the Wind" is a delightful novel that weaves together themes of self-discovery, romance, and family secrets. It presents an engaging narrative that will resonate with readers who appreciate stories exploring identity and heritage complexities. I recommend this book to those seeking a compelling journey of the heart set against the captivating backdrop of Tuscany.
Disclosure: I received this audiobook as an ARC from NetGalley and Greenleaf Audiobooks in exchange for an honest review.
ARC: Netgalley
Rating:4⭐⭐⭐⭐
In Gudrun Cuillo's debut novel, "Casalvento - House of the Wind," readers are transported to the picturesque landscapes of Tuscany, where romance and family secrets converge in a compelling narrative. This story, published by Greenleaf Audiobooks and Greenleaf Book Group Press on October 17, 2023,
Erika Germoglio initially seems to have it all—a flourishing career and a well-connected fiancé. However, her life takes an unexpected turn when she inherits Casalvento, a charming Italian house and vineyard, from a grandfather she never knew existed. As she travels to Italy to unravel the complexities of her newfound inheritance, Erika encounters Paolo, the estate manager and winemaker at Casalvento, who is intelligent, compassionate, and strikingly handsome. Her journey of discovery and transformation is at the heart of this narrative.
One of the book's standout strengths is its well-drawn characters, with Paolo being a particularly memorable figure. Gudrun Cuillo masterfully crafts multi-dimensional characters, deeply connecting readers to their experiences. The emotional journey of Erika and her quest to understand her Italian heritage create an engaging and relatable narrative.
The novel's vivid and immersive descriptions of Tuscany lend an atmospheric quality to the story. Readers will find themselves longing to visit the picturesque landscapes described within the pages, as Cuillo's prose effectively transports them to this enchanting setting.
While the vineyard is central to the story's setting and theme, some readers may find the frequent mentions of wine a tad excessive. Nonetheless, this aspect does not significantly detract from the narrative's overall enjoyment.
In the audiobook version of "Casalvento," the narration by Maria Marquis is a standout feature. Her voice is soothing and easy to listen to, immersing readers in the story. Marquis's narration remains clear and understandable, even at 1.75x speed for those who prefer to listen at an accelerated pace. The slight accent adds an authentic touch to the narrative without hindering the dialogue between characters, making it an excellent choice for audiobook enthusiasts.
In conclusion, "Casalvento - House of the Wind" is a delightful novel that weaves together themes of self-discovery, romance, and family secrets. It presents an engaging narrative that will resonate with readers who appreciate stories exploring identity and heritage complexities. I recommend this book to those seeking a compelling journey of the heart set against the captivating backdrop of Tuscany.
Disclosure: I received this audiobook as an ARC from NetGalley and Greenleaf Audiobooks in exchange for an honest review.
November 13, 2024
I am fortunate to receive books from BookTrib in exchange for my honest, unbiased reviews. My latest book from BookTrib is Casalvento: House of the Wind by Gudrun Cuillo. Cuillo has written a story of family set in Tuscany.
Erika Germgolio is a woman of means, self-made, living her dream in NYC with her fiancé Craig. Out of the blue, Erika receives notice that her paternal grandfather has died in Tuscany, leaving her a vineyard and a hotel. Her immediate thought is to sell all of the property and to do it from NY. However, when speaking to the lawyer in Italy, Erika learns she must go to Tuscany in person in order to take care of the business.
Before her trip to Tuscany, Erika thinks she is living the perfect life because she has a beautifully appointed, modern apartment, a fiancé, and a successful business of her own. What can she do with a vineyard in Tuscany. She knows nothing about wine except that she enjoys it.
Casalvento is a story of surprises for both Erika and the readers. To avoid spoilers, I will say that readers learn Erika’s paternal grandfather left his family in NY and returned to Tuscany. He has carried on a tradition in his family of making vine wine there. Over the course of the story, readers will learn why he left the US and why he leaves the property in Tuscany to Erika.
Readers will be enthralled with the vivid descriptions of the countryside, the vineyards, and the hotel. The characters come to life through Cuillo’s careful depictions—the heroes and the villains. Along with the surprises, readers will discover a bit of romance as well. The story reminds me a tiny bit of Under the Vines, a TV series set in New Zealand when two people unexpectedly inherit a vineyard there. The similarities end there, but the story of Erika’s inheritance is a journey to enjoy!
Erika Germgolio is a woman of means, self-made, living her dream in NYC with her fiancé Craig. Out of the blue, Erika receives notice that her paternal grandfather has died in Tuscany, leaving her a vineyard and a hotel. Her immediate thought is to sell all of the property and to do it from NY. However, when speaking to the lawyer in Italy, Erika learns she must go to Tuscany in person in order to take care of the business.
Before her trip to Tuscany, Erika thinks she is living the perfect life because she has a beautifully appointed, modern apartment, a fiancé, and a successful business of her own. What can she do with a vineyard in Tuscany. She knows nothing about wine except that she enjoys it.
Casalvento is a story of surprises for both Erika and the readers. To avoid spoilers, I will say that readers learn Erika’s paternal grandfather left his family in NY and returned to Tuscany. He has carried on a tradition in his family of making vine wine there. Over the course of the story, readers will learn why he left the US and why he leaves the property in Tuscany to Erika.
Readers will be enthralled with the vivid descriptions of the countryside, the vineyards, and the hotel. The characters come to life through Cuillo’s careful depictions—the heroes and the villains. Along with the surprises, readers will discover a bit of romance as well. The story reminds me a tiny bit of Under the Vines, a TV series set in New Zealand when two people unexpectedly inherit a vineyard there. The similarities end there, but the story of Erika’s inheritance is a journey to enjoy!
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