What do you think?
Rate this book
A Year at 32 September Way
What happens when five people from three different countries move to the same apartment building in Italy for one year? One thing's for sure--their lives will never be the same. Meet Carlisle, Nicolette, Josh, Charles, Eva and their landlord Senor Benedetto as they spend a year at 32 September Way. Whether they hope to find something in Verona or wish to leave something behind, the City of Love manages to change each one of them in ways they never expected.
246 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2012
7 people are currently reading
238 people want to read
About the author
Mary Ylisela
8 books2 followersMary Ylisela is a Chicago-based writer and author who started writing short stories and poetry at thirteen. While raising her children, she ran her own business, went to college and became a teacher. Her love for business and desire to help others drew her back into the business world, and she is thrilled to have come full circle, returning to her love of writing. When she's not writing, her passion is travel and her favorite place to visit is Lake Garda, Italy.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
March 5, 2019
This book is so bad, LET ME RANT FROM MY HEART!
1) Writing style. OMG, where do I begin. English is not my native language but even for me the badness of writing is oh, so obvious. It's really something in the middle between a children's book (age 1 to 3) and an English textbook. I was trying to nail it down for like 50 pages until it struck me: "London is the capital of Great Britain, its political, economic and cultural centre. It's one of the largest cities in the world. Its population is more than million people. London is situated on the river Thames." YES, this is the way this book is written. Look at it:
“My husband is in Siena until late Sunday morning,” Nicolette turned to say as she walked back toward her apartment. “If you’d like, we can meet here tomorrow morning and chat over cappuccino. In fact, we could meet regularly.” “That would be lovely, Nicolette,” Carlisle responded, looking forward to some company and frequent morning chats.
And now kids, underline verbs in Past Simple.
2) Italy without Italy. I got this book 3 weeks before leaving for Verona hoping to find some inspiration for my walks around the town but there's NOTHING about Verona here. These events could have easily happen in, say, South Dakota.
3) American arrogance. I mean, have a look at this:
Carlisle had tasted tiramisu in Verona, and it was even better than the tiramisu she’d enjoyed back in Seattle.
EVEN BETTER? REALLY? YOU DON'T SAY!
4) Cartoon characters with no personality and no motivation. Well, each is provided with a micro-backstory (this is Eva, she's a young German woman) but it's totally not enough to make a character.
5) Plot inconsistencies. Like, where do all these people get money? Only one of them really works during the year they spend in Italy. What about others?
First I thought I would finish this book just because of all the facepalms but my face got really tired. Thank God for Amazon refunding their digital orders.
1) Writing style. OMG, where do I begin. English is not my native language but even for me the badness of writing is oh, so obvious. It's really something in the middle between a children's book (age 1 to 3) and an English textbook. I was trying to nail it down for like 50 pages until it struck me: "London is the capital of Great Britain, its political, economic and cultural centre. It's one of the largest cities in the world. Its population is more than million people. London is situated on the river Thames." YES, this is the way this book is written. Look at it:
“My husband is in Siena until late Sunday morning,” Nicolette turned to say as she walked back toward her apartment. “If you’d like, we can meet here tomorrow morning and chat over cappuccino. In fact, we could meet regularly.” “That would be lovely, Nicolette,” Carlisle responded, looking forward to some company and frequent morning chats.
And now kids, underline verbs in Past Simple.
2) Italy without Italy. I got this book 3 weeks before leaving for Verona hoping to find some inspiration for my walks around the town but there's NOTHING about Verona here. These events could have easily happen in, say, South Dakota.
3) American arrogance. I mean, have a look at this:
Carlisle had tasted tiramisu in Verona, and it was even better than the tiramisu she’d enjoyed back in Seattle.
EVEN BETTER? REALLY? YOU DON'T SAY!
4) Cartoon characters with no personality and no motivation. Well, each is provided with a micro-backstory (this is Eva, she's a young German woman) but it's totally not enough to make a character.
5) Plot inconsistencies. Like, where do all these people get money? Only one of them really works during the year they spend in Italy. What about others?
First I thought I would finish this book just because of all the facepalms but my face got really tired. Thank God for Amazon refunding their digital orders.
August 25, 2013
Easy read about the life of 4 people (Eva, Charles, Josh and Carlisle)who decide to move to Verona for a year for a variety of different reasons. They all rent apartments in Marcello's house. Marcello is in a marriage of mostly convenience now and the love is long gone. He has an affair with Eva and hides her away in the penthouse while hoping to conduct his affair discreetly. Charles is under the thumb from his father and knowing that if he doesn't do something now he will continue his monotonous existence as a banker in England, flees to Italy to find himself. Carlisle is a writer but is struggling to come to terms with an event that has rocked her world and Josh and Nicolette move for the year as he works in the movie industry and is needed in Italy.
The book is set in Verona and the descriptions of the town and culture made me want to drop all and visit it. The story flits between each character, explaining their story and reasons for the move and what they accomplish from it while tying all characters together in a tale of friendship, love and business. Perfect read while lying on the beach or like me at the moment unwell and in the need of something to occupy my mind!
The book is set in Verona and the descriptions of the town and culture made me want to drop all and visit it. The story flits between each character, explaining their story and reasons for the move and what they accomplish from it while tying all characters together in a tale of friendship, love and business. Perfect read while lying on the beach or like me at the moment unwell and in the need of something to occupy my mind!
November 4, 2024
32 via Settembre is a house converted into apartments. Newly ready, four separate tenants move in. Eva, a young German girl and lover of Marrcelli, the owner. Josh & his wife, over from the Ststes whilst Josh works on a new movie. Carlisle - an American writer, and Charles - An English bank manager on a year long sabbatical. Each have their own backstories, and their being thrown together shows unlikely friendships being forged.
September 16, 2017
WAS A BIT UNSURE & CONFUSED AT THE BEGINNING AT IT JUMPED FROM ONE CHARACTER TO ANOTHER CONTINUOUSLY & I DIDNT THINK I WAS GOING TO ENJOY IT BUT WOW WHAT A GREAT STORY & THE CHARACTERS WERE BRILLIANT ...
August 9, 2017
New author for me. It's a light beach read that takes place in Italy. Reminded me of the cast from the TV show "Friends".
January 18, 2013
This book started awkwardly for me, as it jumps between each character in what I can best describe as mini-chapters. But what was awkward at first, I quickly found that I enjoyed as I got to know each character. I went from being overwhelmed that I would never remember who was who, as there are several characters, to quickly knowing each character intimately. In this book, we meet several characters who (mostly) spend a year in Verona, Italy, living at Senor Benedetto's apartment building.
Marcello Benedetto: the older Italian owner of the apartment building
Apt 1 - Josh and Nicolette: the California couple from the movie industry
Apt 2 - Carlisle: the writer from Washington
Apt 3 - Charles: the English banker
Apt 4 - Eva: Marcello's young German girlfriend
Each character has decided to spend a year in Verona for very different personal reasons, each bringing along with them their own past that will play into their present. During this year long look into their lives, we get to watch them not only grown as individuals but watch them meld into their own little community.
What I really enjoyed about this book was that it felt like a great character study. We flip though each character in circulating segments, but these little tidbits really helped me get to know them on a deeper level, working to understand them and care about them on an individual and group level. The characters are not perfect, and I don't agree with all their choices. But the author does a great job pulling the reader into their lives. It was a refreshing read and made me feel like I was in a soap opera, minus the bad acting and outlandishness. Their circumstances were realistic (perhaps outside of the fact that they could all afford to live in Italy for a year) and most were empathy-inducing. By the end the author made me feel like I had really been a part of this group.
The only thing missing for me was more dialogue. I love good dialogue and feeling a part of the conversation rather than being told what happened. While there is some decent dialogue, I feel like there could have been more. The author would frequently describe how the character was feeling or thinking or even what was occurring without just letting the moment be played out for the reader. However, I will say that despite this, the author still did a great job making me feel like I was right there with each character, feeling what they felt, seeing what they saw.
Bottomline: This is an engaging, character-driven, well-paced story. The story pulled me in quickly as it absorbed me into the lives of these characters. I really enjoyed this read.
Marcello Benedetto: the older Italian owner of the apartment building
Apt 1 - Josh and Nicolette: the California couple from the movie industry
Apt 2 - Carlisle: the writer from Washington
Apt 3 - Charles: the English banker
Apt 4 - Eva: Marcello's young German girlfriend
Each character has decided to spend a year in Verona for very different personal reasons, each bringing along with them their own past that will play into their present. During this year long look into their lives, we get to watch them not only grown as individuals but watch them meld into their own little community.
What I really enjoyed about this book was that it felt like a great character study. We flip though each character in circulating segments, but these little tidbits really helped me get to know them on a deeper level, working to understand them and care about them on an individual and group level. The characters are not perfect, and I don't agree with all their choices. But the author does a great job pulling the reader into their lives. It was a refreshing read and made me feel like I was in a soap opera, minus the bad acting and outlandishness. Their circumstances were realistic (perhaps outside of the fact that they could all afford to live in Italy for a year) and most were empathy-inducing. By the end the author made me feel like I had really been a part of this group.
The only thing missing for me was more dialogue. I love good dialogue and feeling a part of the conversation rather than being told what happened. While there is some decent dialogue, I feel like there could have been more. The author would frequently describe how the character was feeling or thinking or even what was occurring without just letting the moment be played out for the reader. However, I will say that despite this, the author still did a great job making me feel like I was right there with each character, feeling what they felt, seeing what they saw.
Bottomline: This is an engaging, character-driven, well-paced story. The story pulled me in quickly as it absorbed me into the lives of these characters. I really enjoyed this read.
August 5, 2016
A Year at 32 September Way by Mary Ylisela was such a good book for me. I really enjoyed this story of five people giving up their regular lives to move to Verona, Italy and live in the same apartment building owned by Marcello for a year. It was a fun and light read as well as the perfect way to take a little trip to Italy from my armchair.
As everyone arrives in Italy we meet Carlisle, a writer without current inspiration; Charles, a banker; Josh & Nicolette, a couple from the movie industry, and last Eva, Marcello’s girlfriend. Everyone has their own personal reasons for making the decision to spend this year in Italy and although they arrive as strangers, over time their lives begin to interconnect and they form friendships.
The novel goes between all of the characters in alternating chapters so in the beginning it’s a little hard to follow but it isn’t long before you find yourself drawn into each and every one of their lives. Everyone has their issues, some more serious than others, but they are all trying to work through them. It seems the wonderful atmosphere of Verona goes along way in helping them to do that.
I was a little sad when i finished this book because I really wanted more so you can imagine my excitement when I saw shortly after reading it that there was a sequel. Its called Another Year at 32 September Way and I can’t wait to read it! A Year at 32 September Way is a perfect summer read. Take it to the beach or curl up in your favorite chair with it. Either way I think you’ll enjoy the story and the trip to Italy!
As everyone arrives in Italy we meet Carlisle, a writer without current inspiration; Charles, a banker; Josh & Nicolette, a couple from the movie industry, and last Eva, Marcello’s girlfriend. Everyone has their own personal reasons for making the decision to spend this year in Italy and although they arrive as strangers, over time their lives begin to interconnect and they form friendships.
The novel goes between all of the characters in alternating chapters so in the beginning it’s a little hard to follow but it isn’t long before you find yourself drawn into each and every one of their lives. Everyone has their issues, some more serious than others, but they are all trying to work through them. It seems the wonderful atmosphere of Verona goes along way in helping them to do that.
I was a little sad when i finished this book because I really wanted more so you can imagine my excitement when I saw shortly after reading it that there was a sequel. Its called Another Year at 32 September Way and I can’t wait to read it! A Year at 32 September Way is a perfect summer read. Take it to the beach or curl up in your favorite chair with it. Either way I think you’ll enjoy the story and the trip to Italy!
March 29, 2013
A Year at 32 September Way is a gem of a book that I found when the author , Mary Ylisela was promoting it for free on Amazon (Kindle Edition). I must say that this was the best free kindle book that I've ever ordered. The cover art and the setting in Italy grabbed my eye right away. This is the story of five different people from all over the world that moved to Italy for a year and they all stay in the same apartment building. Their Italian landlord, who owns the building plays a major part in the novel as well. They each have their own reasons for wanting to live in Italy. As time goes on during the year, each one changes and finds a new chapter in life as they explore life in Italy. Some things are positive and some are life changing events. Among these experiences, friendships and romance bloom and truths are told and revealed. The charm of the city of Verona is revealed through the characters experiences. I wanted to be there in a cafe having a cappuccino watching the people and soaking in the cultural experience. I found the story engaging and the characters were well developed with their individual stories woven together well. When I finished the book I was longing for a sequel and am thrilled that the author has just published a sequel, Another Year at 32 September Way
See my review at: http://redladysreadingroom-redlady.bl...
January 14, 2013
This is a very good book! The characters this author has created are not ones that you will soon forget after reading. What made me love this book so much was the author's grasp on language. She can make you feel what her characters are feeling through her command of language. I loved reading this in its entirety. When you become absorbed in this story, you literally forget everything else that is going on in your life.
This book had a wonderful plot and moved at a nice pace. There is not so much going on that you can't recall who is who and I loved that you got to see things happen through more than one character's point of view. This is just an overall excellent book and I will be sure to look for more works by this author. Highly, highly recommended.
This book had a wonderful plot and moved at a nice pace. There is not so much going on that you can't recall who is who and I loved that you got to see things happen through more than one character's point of view. This is just an overall excellent book and I will be sure to look for more works by this author. Highly, highly recommended.
May 6, 2013
''What happens when five people from three different countries move to the same apartment building in Italy for one year? One thing's for sure--their lives will never be the same. Meet Carlisle, Nicolette, Josh, Charles, Eva and their landlord Senor Benedetto as they spend a year at 32 September Way. Whether they hope to find something in Verona or wish to leave something behind, the City of Love manages to change each one of them in ways they never expected.''
Nice story with believable characters which chugs along nicely. Would make a nice easy holiday read as it's not particularly taxing.
There appears to be a sequel, but I'm not in a hurry to read it.
Nice story with believable characters which chugs along nicely. Would make a nice easy holiday read as it's not particularly taxing.
There appears to be a sequel, but I'm not in a hurry to read it.
January 17, 2016
A really good story! I enjoyed all the characters and their different lives. I'll definately read more of this author.
From Amazon:
What happens when five people from three different countries move to the same apartment building in Italy for one year? One thing's for sure--their lives will never be the same. Meet Carlisle, Nicolette, Josh, Charles, Eva and their landlord Signor Benedetto as they spend a year at 32 September Way. Whether they hope to find something in Verona or wish to leave something behind, the City of Love manages to change each one of them in ways they never expected.
From Amazon:
What happens when five people from three different countries move to the same apartment building in Italy for one year? One thing's for sure--their lives will never be the same. Meet Carlisle, Nicolette, Josh, Charles, Eva and their landlord Signor Benedetto as they spend a year at 32 September Way. Whether they hope to find something in Verona or wish to leave something behind, the City of Love manages to change each one of them in ways they never expected.
September 21, 2013
That moment where you get halfway through a book and something happens that makes you go "Huh!?!" Yeah that just happened. Further review to come when or if I finish.
Final review:
So aside from the part I mentioned earlier, the slight predictability, and the lack of Italian aspects this was a pretty decent book. Definitely one I'd read again. I just wish it had more details about Italy, it could be taking place almost anywhere with the lack of detail there is and also the "could see it a mile away" predictably in some places it was good.
Final review:
So aside from the part I mentioned earlier, the slight predictability, and the lack of Italian aspects this was a pretty decent book. Definitely one I'd read again. I just wish it had more details about Italy, it could be taking place almost anywhere with the lack of detail there is and also the "could see it a mile away" predictably in some places it was good.
February 25, 2016
kindle (247) I really enjoyed this story, which is about the tenants who move into 32 September Way, in Verona, Italy. Four North Americans and one German woman,each lease an apartment at the same address for a years time and we discover their reasons for being there and the friendships they form. Loved the premise of the story line and the way the author went about it. I will look forward to more books by this auhor.
February 15, 2016
This was not the best book I've ever read. I like the idea of a group of people living in one apartment building and the interactions they have, and I did like this novel at the beginning when the characters were different and interesting, but they just seemed to blend together toward the end. The novel has very little dialogue and instead has short summaries of what characters talk about. This keeps the reader from really getting to know the characters. I doubt I'll read the sequel.
August 18, 2013
I really liked this, had a similar feel to Maeve Binchy Nights Of Rain and Stars with the different characters and their stories coming together.
I liked all the characters and was glad they all got the outcome they wanted.
Lots of chapter breaks in the chapters while it switches from one character to another, some may find this annoying or confusing but I got used to it.
I liked all the characters and was glad they all got the outcome they wanted.
Lots of chapter breaks in the chapters while it switches from one character to another, some may find this annoying or confusing but I got used to it.
September 7, 2013
Five people with varying backgrounds rent an apartment in the same block in Verona. Each has a different reason for spending the next 12 months of their lives there. Over the course of the year the five become friends and, through their individual experiences, find answers to their various dilemmas.
May 4, 2014
Another book that I liked the sound of. Five people renting appartments in the same house get to know each other over the course of a year. It sounds an idyllic place and you could just imagine joining them in the courtyard one evening. There is a sequel to this one which I must look out for to see which characters remain for 'another' year!
March 6, 2018
endearing
This was a very heartwarming, easy read. It took me a few chapters to get into the groove of it but, once I hit the right page, it kept me intrigued into discovering the characters and their lives. I will say, like most romances it was a bit predictable but if you are looking for a heartwarming, coming of age story, then I definitely recommend this book
This was a very heartwarming, easy read. It took me a few chapters to get into the groove of it but, once I hit the right page, it kept me intrigued into discovering the characters and their lives. I will say, like most romances it was a bit predictable but if you are looking for a heartwarming, coming of age story, then I definitely recommend this book
January 16, 2013
A nice book revolving around four groups that rent an apartment in a building for a year in Verona, Italy and how their paths cross and they become friends. I love reading about Italy though there wasn't much description of the place it still gave you a feel of being in another country
April 17, 2013
If only the style of writing had been a little better this could have been another "Under the Tuscan Sun", but alas it wasn't. With a little more effort this could have been a 5-star book. I don't know exactly HOW to explain it, just that SOMETHING needed editing.
April 25, 2013
I prefer some actual conversations in my books. Don't just "tell" me what happens. Try creating some dialog and character development. Just saying. Ugh. Can't believe I read the whole thing. What a waste of time.
June 13, 2013
Living in an apartment building is almost like living in a real small community. They all know everyone, they all hang out together and they support and love each other.
Loved this book, will watch for more books by Mary Ylisela. It was a fast and easy read.
Loved this book, will watch for more books by Mary Ylisela. It was a fast and easy read.
July 27, 2014
I enjoyed this book immensely. Romance, travel, heartache. Slightly reminiscent of Under the Tuscan Sun, lovers of Italy will cherish the year in the lives of these characters. P.S. I cannot remember the last time I stayed up all night reading a book!
June 10, 2013
It is quite apparent when Americans write dialogue and attribute American colloquialisms to foreigners that they have not thoroughly done their research.
July 2, 2013
One building, four apartments, and strangers become friends. All set in the beautiful Verona, Italy. What I wouldn't give to be able to take off a year and go live there!
July 17, 2013
great characters. some parts of the book moved a bit slow, but overall a good read.
August 10, 2013
Another short, enjoyable book. This one even had a couple of things I wasn't expecting! All in all, cute book, quick read
September 28, 2014
A slow read
April 21, 2014
I loved this one. An Italian background ensures the relaxing atmosphere that I love.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews