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Vivi il Momento: A Story of Lust, Lies, Love, and Learning to Live in the Moment
Hearts collide. Bodies align. Lives are changed forever.
It is absolutely lust at first sight for Mia, an Italian-American vacationing from the States, and Gennaro, an Italian native policing the streets of Rome.
She’s in love with love but has an unfortunate history of trying to find it in all of the wrong places. With difficulty trusting people and a zero-tolerance policy for lying, Mia is one heartache away from giving up on it altogether.
Gennaro, on the other hand, never thought true love was even possible, which is why the secret he’s hiding could ruin things before they have a chance to begin.
Their chemistry is instant, and their desires are undeniable. Giving in to one night of pleasure wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world, would it? But after waking up in each other’s arms with their one-night stand feeling anything but singular, their lives are altered in ways that seem impossible to resist.
Can two strong-minded people move past their outdated expectations and evolve together without losing themselves in the process?
EDITORIAL REVIEWS
★ "When an author makes you want to board a plane immediately, she's good." - Elizabeth Lyons, 6x Author, Editor & Writing Coach
★ "The perfect blend of adventure, romance, spice and drama! Top it off with a relatable and badass protagonist. Perfect for any woman trying to find herself." - Nicole S., Beta Reader
★ "It's a page turner for sure with a great story, incredible scenic descriptions, hysterical one liners, and amazing twists and turns that'll make you laugh and cry at the same time!" - Mary L., Beta Reader
★ “If you are looking for a steamy romance novel set in the most gorgeous cities with delicious food and LOL moments, this is for you.” - Stephanie F., Beta Reader
It is absolutely lust at first sight for Mia, an Italian-American vacationing from the States, and Gennaro, an Italian native policing the streets of Rome.
She’s in love with love but has an unfortunate history of trying to find it in all of the wrong places. With difficulty trusting people and a zero-tolerance policy for lying, Mia is one heartache away from giving up on it altogether.
Gennaro, on the other hand, never thought true love was even possible, which is why the secret he’s hiding could ruin things before they have a chance to begin.
Their chemistry is instant, and their desires are undeniable. Giving in to one night of pleasure wouldn’t be the worst thing in the world, would it? But after waking up in each other’s arms with their one-night stand feeling anything but singular, their lives are altered in ways that seem impossible to resist.
Can two strong-minded people move past their outdated expectations and evolve together without losing themselves in the process?
EDITORIAL REVIEWS
★ "When an author makes you want to board a plane immediately, she's good." - Elizabeth Lyons, 6x Author, Editor & Writing Coach
★ "The perfect blend of adventure, romance, spice and drama! Top it off with a relatable and badass protagonist. Perfect for any woman trying to find herself." - Nicole S., Beta Reader
★ "It's a page turner for sure with a great story, incredible scenic descriptions, hysterical one liners, and amazing twists and turns that'll make you laugh and cry at the same time!" - Mary L., Beta Reader
★ “If you are looking for a steamy romance novel set in the most gorgeous cities with delicious food and LOL moments, this is for you.” - Stephanie F., Beta Reader
362 pages, Paperback
Published July 6, 2023
11 people are currently reading
372 people want to read
About the author
Mary Belle
5 books63 followersFor the lovers of love...
I'm an indie author who writes relatable romance stories with equal parts steamy spice and laugh out loud dialogue and banter.
An advocate of gentlemen seasoned generally with spice, women with a lot to say who don't shy away from their emotions, and find their most confident self along the way, as well as hilarious supporting characters that connect all of the dots.
My debut, Vivi il Momento, is based on an 2015 vacation to Italy and the sequel, Bella Vita, is coming soon!
I'm an indie author who writes relatable romance stories with equal parts steamy spice and laugh out loud dialogue and banter.
An advocate of gentlemen seasoned generally with spice, women with a lot to say who don't shy away from their emotions, and find their most confident self along the way, as well as hilarious supporting characters that connect all of the dots.
My debut, Vivi il Momento, is based on an 2015 vacation to Italy and the sequel, Bella Vita, is coming soon!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
July 20, 2024
This was a story about 2 people who fall in love when the universe does everything it can to keep them apart. They have to overcome so many things to be together, some would say it’s not worth it. But what they don’t understand is that being able to spend the rest of your life with your best friend, with someone who makes life effortless is worth all the trouble. Follow Mia and Gennaro in an adventure of solidifying love.
April 6, 2024
This was an amazing read!
The love story! Their connection, the characters, the scenery. It was all just amazing! I am so happy that I found this book!
When it ended I worried that I had to wait a while for the next book to come out and continue on with our characters! So glad that the next book is coming out this month April 2024!!!
I will definitely be reading the next book in the series!
I recommend this book!
The love story! Their connection, the characters, the scenery. It was all just amazing! I am so happy that I found this book!
When it ended I worried that I had to wait a while for the next book to come out and continue on with our characters! So glad that the next book is coming out this month April 2024!!!
I will definitely be reading the next book in the series!
I recommend this book!
January 21, 2024
DNF @ 30%
ARC generously provided by Net Galley.
Unfortunately this book just wasn't for me. I found some cultural inconsistencies irked me a bit (mama spelled with one M instead of 'mamma' as it is in Italy, Gesù spelled incorrectly as Gezu, Gennaro's mother's last name as Beretta while in Italy, women keep their maiden name after marriage, Gennaro's brother driving up to Rome from Florence, meanwhile he would have driven DOWN to Rome from Florence, etc).
I also didn't like that the author told me about the characters rather than showed me their personalities through dialogue or experience/situations. Their chemistry and instant-love felt implausible and hard to get invested in.
I hope this book finds the right audience, but it wasn't for me.
ARC generously provided by Net Galley.
Unfortunately this book just wasn't for me. I found some cultural inconsistencies irked me a bit (mama spelled with one M instead of 'mamma' as it is in Italy, Gesù spelled incorrectly as Gezu, Gennaro's mother's last name as Beretta while in Italy, women keep their maiden name after marriage, Gennaro's brother driving up to Rome from Florence, meanwhile he would have driven DOWN to Rome from Florence, etc).
I also didn't like that the author told me about the characters rather than showed me their personalities through dialogue or experience/situations. Their chemistry and instant-love felt implausible and hard to get invested in.
I hope this book finds the right audience, but it wasn't for me.
February 15, 2024
Sometimes I forget how much I love to read romance and then I pick up a book like Vivi il Momento. This book was absolutely captivating- from the descriptive and beautiful landscapes, to the sexiest romance and love story, and the characters’ humor and wit. I fell in love with this book. I can’t wait to recommend it to all my friends. A MUST READ for any romance lovers!!
I am patiently waiting for the sequel to find out what happens!!!
I am patiently waiting for the sequel to find out what happens!!!
July 30, 2023
Debut novel say what? This read like a well seasoned author. The story was fluid, characters well thought out. I was pleasantly shocked.
I could feel the attraction and tension between the two love interests. I can certainly appreciate the execution of a fast burn. Slow burns are nice do not get me wrong, but sometimes it’s too slow of a burn that leaves me frustrated and wanting it to burn faster (LOL)
But the story of Mia and Gennaro may have been a whirlwind of a romance but they just felt like they were meant for each other.
Gennaro was a confident, strong, protective MMC. But tasteful with those elements. He could have easily been an insufferable male lead. The same could be said about Mia as the FMC. When we first meet Mia, she’s breaking up a “relationship”. And has what I’m sure some would refer to as a “she’s crazy” moment. But once she is with Gennaro, we see that she is an emotional character who feels those emotions so deep that she puts her all into her relationships. We can also see that in her relationships with her family, Allie, and Pesca.
The romance aspect of this story was a nice cleanse to the palate. We, as readers, live in a world where it’s all about the spice (insert the eggplant emoji here 😉) and sometimes we lose sight of the steam in the relationship. And this was well balanced. The spice was there but not overwhelmingly. It made the overall romance seem like a story about a real relationship.
The ending left me a little unsatisfied. I knew these characters would eventually have to separate. Being from different countries really puts an emphasis on long distance relationship. But I think I was hoping for a big romantic gesture from Gennaro as Mia was trying to leaving. Racing to catch her before she got on the plane…maybe I watch to many rom com movies 😅. I think something like that would have still left the ending set up for a sequel.
Overall, I really enjoyed this. It’s certainly a book that I will be sharing with my fellow romance lover friends.
I could feel the attraction and tension between the two love interests. I can certainly appreciate the execution of a fast burn. Slow burns are nice do not get me wrong, but sometimes it’s too slow of a burn that leaves me frustrated and wanting it to burn faster (LOL)
But the story of Mia and Gennaro may have been a whirlwind of a romance but they just felt like they were meant for each other.
Gennaro was a confident, strong, protective MMC. But tasteful with those elements. He could have easily been an insufferable male lead. The same could be said about Mia as the FMC. When we first meet Mia, she’s breaking up a “relationship”. And has what I’m sure some would refer to as a “she’s crazy” moment. But once she is with Gennaro, we see that she is an emotional character who feels those emotions so deep that she puts her all into her relationships. We can also see that in her relationships with her family, Allie, and Pesca.
The romance aspect of this story was a nice cleanse to the palate. We, as readers, live in a world where it’s all about the spice (insert the eggplant emoji here 😉) and sometimes we lose sight of the steam in the relationship. And this was well balanced. The spice was there but not overwhelmingly. It made the overall romance seem like a story about a real relationship.
The ending left me a little unsatisfied. I knew these characters would eventually have to separate. Being from different countries really puts an emphasis on long distance relationship. But I think I was hoping for a big romantic gesture from Gennaro as Mia was trying to leaving. Racing to catch her before she got on the plane…maybe I watch to many rom com movies 😅. I think something like that would have still left the ending set up for a sequel.
Overall, I really enjoyed this. It’s certainly a book that I will be sharing with my fellow romance lover friends.
March 16, 2024
I loved this and can't wait for the 2nd book in the series! I honestly don't read romance often but the Italy setting and family drama was perfect!
August 28, 2024
Loved living vicariously through this Italian love story. ❤️❤️❤️Gennaro
and love Mia too actually!
This is just a fun story to read and also a little SPICY sometimes, which I enjoyed for sure. Great easy read
and love Mia too actually!
This is just a fun story to read and also a little SPICY sometimes, which I enjoyed for sure. Great easy read
July 26, 2023
Holy moly! Perfect mix of humor, romance and steam. Can’t wait for the next one. I could not put it down!
August 19, 2023
After a breakup with another man who doesn’t see her worth and losing her job, Mia heads to Italy for a vacation with her parent’s friend. There, she meets Gennaro. The two have a one night stand to mark off Mia’s Italian bucket list before she heads to the countryside, where she’s staying at his family’s hotel.
(Spoilers ahead)
I loved Mia! How many of us can’t say that we put up with terrible men and underwhelming jobs and wish we could run away to Italy and meet the love of our lives?
This is an insta-love novel staring a hot Italian cop with a heart of gold. If you’re wanting to read about hot people in Italy having great sex… this one is for you.
I think my favorite scene was when Mia and Pesca went on a gondola ride in Venice. The description made me want to immediately book a plane to Italy.
One thing I will note - this is NOT a standalone. This is the first in the series so there is no HEA and it does end on a bit of a cliffhanger.
(Disclaimer: I do know the author of this book, but I am writing an honest review)
(Spoilers ahead)
I loved Mia! How many of us can’t say that we put up with terrible men and underwhelming jobs and wish we could run away to Italy and meet the love of our lives?
This is an insta-love novel staring a hot Italian cop with a heart of gold. If you’re wanting to read about hot people in Italy having great sex… this one is for you.
I think my favorite scene was when Mia and Pesca went on a gondola ride in Venice. The description made me want to immediately book a plane to Italy.
One thing I will note - this is NOT a standalone. This is the first in the series so there is no HEA and it does end on a bit of a cliffhanger.
(Disclaimer: I do know the author of this book, but I am writing an honest review)
October 3, 2024
Vivi il Momento was such a pleasant surprise! It’s a story full of passion, twists, and lessons about embracing life as it comes. The mix of lust, lies, and love made for an engaging read that kept me turning the pages. Mary Belle did a great job bringing the Italian setting to life—it added so much atmosphere and charm to the story.
I really enjoyed how the book explores living in the moment. It’s not just a love story; there’s an underlying message about personal growth and letting go of the past. The characters felt real, with all their flaws and emotions, which made it easy to connect with them. The relationships were messy at times, but that’s what made the story feel authentic.
While there were a few parts where the pacing slowed a bit, the overall experience was great. It’s a perfect pick if you’re looking for something romantic with a little bit of drama and a lot of heart. Definitely worth reading if you’re in the mood for a story that’s not just about love, but also about learning to truly live.
August 28, 2024
Mia, an unemployed 24 year old who somehow thinks she has the toughest life ever, jets off to Italy to find herself. What she actually finds is resident bad boy, Gennaro, who most likely gave himself that title because he has daddy issues and hates everyone, especially boring American women. One look at Mia, a boring American woman, and it’s love at first questionable outfit choice. They bang all over Italy because that’s what dreams are made of and I’m so happy two of the most equally unlikable people on the planet found each other.
October 8, 2023
4.25! Cannot believe this is her first book!
October 22, 2023
I could not put this down! I am living for the drama, I did not expect that.. I absolutely cannot wait for the next book..I HAVE to know what happens next!
December 20, 2023
Vivi Il Momento is a novel that rises to the beauty of its name by both encouraging and daring you to live in the moment. This is both a relaxing, curl up with a good romance read and a luxurious travel tour to awaken your senses in Italy.
Vivi Il Momento is sexy and sensual without needing to be over the top. Don’t get me wrong, there’s plenty of steamy moments, but you’ll enjoy following the journey of Gennaro and Mia’s relationship outside of the sheets as much as in between. Watching them grow as a couple and face the challenges of past disappoints, familial expectations, and ultimately figuring out their path in life as individuals and as a couple, is just as exciting and endearing as the outright romance they share.
It was also just nice to read a romance novel with two imperfect, but genuine people, who want to find love and are willing to work to overcome their insecurities and fears to do it, even when there are unexpected twists and setbacks. Mia and Gennaro have their issues, but I appreciated how real they were as characters in a believable sense. I know dark romance has its place, but it was refreshing to read a romance novel where the leading male doesn’t have to be a jerk for three-quarters of the novel to keep the story and the relationship moving forward.
I also enjoyed the flight for the senses that this novel was: good food, great sex, fashion and jewelry, sights around Italy, exotic vineyard life. This is only book one on Mia and Gennaro’s journey, but I will be living in the moments I shared with them, until we meet again on the next romantic adventure.
Vivi Il Momento is sexy and sensual without needing to be over the top. Don’t get me wrong, there’s plenty of steamy moments, but you’ll enjoy following the journey of Gennaro and Mia’s relationship outside of the sheets as much as in between. Watching them grow as a couple and face the challenges of past disappoints, familial expectations, and ultimately figuring out their path in life as individuals and as a couple, is just as exciting and endearing as the outright romance they share.
It was also just nice to read a romance novel with two imperfect, but genuine people, who want to find love and are willing to work to overcome their insecurities and fears to do it, even when there are unexpected twists and setbacks. Mia and Gennaro have their issues, but I appreciated how real they were as characters in a believable sense. I know dark romance has its place, but it was refreshing to read a romance novel where the leading male doesn’t have to be a jerk for three-quarters of the novel to keep the story and the relationship moving forward.
I also enjoyed the flight for the senses that this novel was: good food, great sex, fashion and jewelry, sights around Italy, exotic vineyard life. This is only book one on Mia and Gennaro’s journey, but I will be living in the moments I shared with them, until we meet again on the next romantic adventure.
January 3, 2024
Four stars because it ends in a cliff hanger. I hate cliff hangers! Although I have to tell you that I was very pleasantly surprised. This book was well written, character development was well done. Mia and Genaro’s love was tangible. I laughed, cried and swooned over Genaro. What a beautiful story!
The reason this book attracted my attention was because it was mostly situated in Italy. I am always happy to revisit the places we visited in Italy. I felt like was actually there it was so realistic. I was really hoping Mia would stay in Italy but alas I understand why she had to return.
I have always believed in love at first sight, chemistry, and believe it or not smell. The book flowed. All the characters played such an important part of the narrative. Like in real life, Genaro’s family was dysfunctional. Their secrets slowly building to the point of exploding until they did.
So looking forward to the second book. Anxiously waiting for the rest of the book 😰😳.
The reason this book attracted my attention was because it was mostly situated in Italy. I am always happy to revisit the places we visited in Italy. I felt like was actually there it was so realistic. I was really hoping Mia would stay in Italy but alas I understand why she had to return.
I have always believed in love at first sight, chemistry, and believe it or not smell. The book flowed. All the characters played such an important part of the narrative. Like in real life, Genaro’s family was dysfunctional. Their secrets slowly building to the point of exploding until they did.
So looking forward to the second book. Anxiously waiting for the rest of the book 😰😳.
March 28, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed Mary Belle’s debut novel! I found it delightful how she set the book in various cities across Italy, providing a charming journey through the country as the story unfolded. The characters were well-crafted, with Pesca being a particular favourite of mine.
However, I did have a few qualms with the book, which led me to deduct a star. I believe there could have been more thorough research into Italian culture. I often found myself distracted from the narrative by inaccuracies about Italy. For instance, the main male character referring to himself as a cop is an American term not commonly used in Italy. Additionally, I'm not particularly fond of insta-love, although I understand this is subjective.
Despite these criticisms, I enjoyed the cliffhanger ending and look forward to following Gennaro and Mia’s journey in the next instalment!
However, I did have a few qualms with the book, which led me to deduct a star. I believe there could have been more thorough research into Italian culture. I often found myself distracted from the narrative by inaccuracies about Italy. For instance, the main male character referring to himself as a cop is an American term not commonly used in Italy. Additionally, I'm not particularly fond of insta-love, although I understand this is subjective.
Despite these criticisms, I enjoyed the cliffhanger ending and look forward to following Gennaro and Mia’s journey in the next instalment!
September 3, 2024
5⭐️
This year I’ve been reading so many indie books, and this is another one to add to the pile of indie books I’ve fallen in love with.
Gennaro is a dream man! He drinks wine. Likes good food. Seems very apt in the bedroom (and beyond.) He is a family man. And he’s Italian.
YES PLEASE!
I love that this whole book is about learning to live in the moment. I think that’s something we can all relate to. We are constantly looking toward the next thing. The next big plot point in our lives, so to speak! Mia was given an opportunity to slow down, and it’s in those slow moments where beautiful things happen. That’s exactly what happened here.
Now! For all my romance lovers, I will tell you… this is a duology! So while yes, I’m calling it a romance, from what I’ve read, you’ll definitely need to read book 2 to get the HEA. We are in an HFN situation at the end of this book. Having seen what Mia and Gennaro have gone through in this book, I have a feeling the HEA is going to be so freaking worth it. I can’t wait!
This book was an easy five stars, and I highly recommend it!
This year I’ve been reading so many indie books, and this is another one to add to the pile of indie books I’ve fallen in love with.
Gennaro is a dream man! He drinks wine. Likes good food. Seems very apt in the bedroom (and beyond.) He is a family man. And he’s Italian.
YES PLEASE!
I love that this whole book is about learning to live in the moment. I think that’s something we can all relate to. We are constantly looking toward the next thing. The next big plot point in our lives, so to speak! Mia was given an opportunity to slow down, and it’s in those slow moments where beautiful things happen. That’s exactly what happened here.
Now! For all my romance lovers, I will tell you… this is a duology! So while yes, I’m calling it a romance, from what I’ve read, you’ll definitely need to read book 2 to get the HEA. We are in an HFN situation at the end of this book. Having seen what Mia and Gennaro have gone through in this book, I have a feeling the HEA is going to be so freaking worth it. I can’t wait!
This book was an easy five stars, and I highly recommend it!
March 25, 2024
With thanks to the author and NetGalley for the opportunity to read “Vivi il Momento” ans an eARC and offer my honest feedback.
I believe strongly that this book will find its audience and they will be vocal in their support. The insta- lust was not my cup of tea and add in a couple of oddities, such as driving up to Roma from Firenze or the local going for a “pie” in Roma after work, I was unable to really love the story.
That said, the writing is neat, a little heavy on the telling rather than showing regarding character motivation and behaviour in place. The dual POV helped to maintain the pace of the story. I found Genaro’s voice easier to read. There is a definite grumpy x sunshine story and the cliffhanger suggests that although it’s not HEA yet, there is another book and the story will continue.
I believe strongly that this book will find its audience and they will be vocal in their support. The insta- lust was not my cup of tea and add in a couple of oddities, such as driving up to Roma from Firenze or the local going for a “pie” in Roma after work, I was unable to really love the story.
That said, the writing is neat, a little heavy on the telling rather than showing regarding character motivation and behaviour in place. The dual POV helped to maintain the pace of the story. I found Genaro’s voice easier to read. There is a definite grumpy x sunshine story and the cliffhanger suggests that although it’s not HEA yet, there is another book and the story will continue.
May 4, 2024
What a great read. At times I felt as though I were
in Italy because of the beautifully descriptive words that Mary has written. I could feel the sun on my face and take in the aroma of freshly baked bread and the taste of red wine & of the scent of Gennaro’s cologne and Mia’s perfume. Can it be true love in a matter days? Their chemistry cannot be denied ! It is hot & lustful!!! Can they keep it going being 5000 miles away from each other ??? I really believe if you read this book, you will totally enjoy it. The characters are strong yet vulnerable. Very family oriented . How will all this take place ??? I’m on to the second book to find out !!!! Soooo good !!!!
in Italy because of the beautifully descriptive words that Mary has written. I could feel the sun on my face and take in the aroma of freshly baked bread and the taste of red wine & of the scent of Gennaro’s cologne and Mia’s perfume. Can it be true love in a matter days? Their chemistry cannot be denied ! It is hot & lustful!!! Can they keep it going being 5000 miles away from each other ??? I really believe if you read this book, you will totally enjoy it. The characters are strong yet vulnerable. Very family oriented . How will all this take place ??? I’m on to the second book to find out !!!! Soooo good !!!!
July 7, 2023
Vivi il Momento is a must read debut novel by Mary Belle. If you are looking for a steamy, true love romance novel that is set in the most gorgeous cities-- this is for you. You I will fall in love with Mia and Gennaro while laughing out loud throughout the entire book. I also adored Mia's family and friends, I am hoping to hear more from them in the 2nd book! Just a warning- bring snacks, the delicious food descriptions will make you hungry.
December 31, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️!!!
What a great debut novel!!!
This book kept my interest the entire time and now I can’t wait for book 2 to come out! When is the preorder???
Do I now have a new book boyfriend now?? Gennaro??? I think so! SWOOONNN.
Vive il Momento is the absolute perfect title for this book. It totally covers the entire premise of the book.
Italy has always been my top bucket list destination. But after reading this book, it makes me want to go that much more. Maybe I’d be able to “Vive il Momento” while I am there.
What a great debut novel!!!
This book kept my interest the entire time and now I can’t wait for book 2 to come out! When is the preorder???
Do I now have a new book boyfriend now?? Gennaro??? I think so! SWOOONNN.
Vive il Momento is the absolute perfect title for this book. It totally covers the entire premise of the book.
Italy has always been my top bucket list destination. But after reading this book, it makes me want to go that much more. Maybe I’d be able to “Vive il Momento” while I am there.
March 1, 2024
▪️all the scandal
▪️tourist x local
▪️insta chemistry
▪️grumpy x sunshine
maybe i’m in my italy era? this book was almost like watching those wild ass soap operas my grandma had on when i was a kid. the drama was plentiful, spicy insta chemistry status, and the “i’ve accepted imma be alone and here’s this amazing man” trope if that exists. such an amazing debut for this author!
▪️tourist x local
▪️insta chemistry
▪️grumpy x sunshine
maybe i’m in my italy era? this book was almost like watching those wild ass soap operas my grandma had on when i was a kid. the drama was plentiful, spicy insta chemistry status, and the “i’ve accepted imma be alone and here’s this amazing man” trope if that exists. such an amazing debut for this author!
March 28, 2024
I could absolutely see myself taking this book to read while on vacation in Italy!
Mary Belle summarized her book to me perfectly: “it’s like a modern day retelling of Under The Tuscan Sun.” And wow, was she right!
The spice between Mia ans Gennaro is off the charts, and the cliff hanger?! Book number 2 can’t get here soon enough!
Mary Belle summarized her book to me perfectly: “it’s like a modern day retelling of Under The Tuscan Sun.” And wow, was she right!
The spice between Mia ans Gennaro is off the charts, and the cliff hanger?! Book number 2 can’t get here soon enough!
April 21, 2024
This book was un-put-downable for me. A whole day and late into the morning. I was immersed in the love, lust, and all the feels. Here is to planning a vacation in Italy.
Thank you to Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
Thank you to Netgalley for the chance to read this book.
April 19, 2024
"It's a page turner for sure with a great story, incredible scenic descriptions, hysterical one liners, and amazing twists and turns that'll make you laugh and cry at the same time!"
December 28, 2023
Mary’s debut will transport you to Italy! Steamy romance.
January 16, 2024
Take me to Italy! What a beautiful story. I loved the dialogue and family relationships the book explored. Well written details about travel and love. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.
April 26, 2024
Absolutely loved this book! And I am SO GLAD I finished it right when the next book in this series was released because I NEED to continue this love story. So good!!!!!
August 20, 2023
Vivi il Momento
Ever feel like you need to just live in the moment instead of worrying about everything that may happen in the future? The beautiful Mia and the delicious Gennaro are trying to do just that, separately, when their paths cross in the most exquisite city of Rome. Their spice, their humor, their connection… it was all absolutely perfect. I wasn’t expecting the ending, at all!!! This was Mary Belle’s first novel, but I will say, it did not read that way!!! She seems seasoned and I will anxiously be awaiting the release of her next one!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Ever feel like you need to just live in the moment instead of worrying about everything that may happen in the future? The beautiful Mia and the delicious Gennaro are trying to do just that, separately, when their paths cross in the most exquisite city of Rome. Their spice, their humor, their connection… it was all absolutely perfect. I wasn’t expecting the ending, at all!!! This was Mary Belle’s first novel, but I will say, it did not read that way!!! She seems seasoned and I will anxiously be awaiting the release of her next one!!!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
August 15, 2024
All I can say is I have serious FOMO. Take me back to Italy and just let me stay there. Mia, like many of us in the dating scene, has had such terrible luck. She essentially gets a demotion and decides to leave her job and vacation in Italy for two weeks. Those two weeks bring her a lifetime of memories and what I consider to be the beginning of the best luck anyone can get when it comes to love. Gennaro is in the stage of his life where he wants to be independent and has left for Rome to pursue a career as a police officer leaving his family behind in the countryside to tend to their property. It is one simple encounter that snowballs into the adventure and love story of a lifetime. Throughout the book you are reminded to just live in the moment and have faith that everything will work itself out. “ Tu sei la calma nella mia vita. Sono così contento di averti trovato. Cosa farei senza di te.” Gennaro just has a way with words.
(“ You are the calm in my life, I’m so thankful that I found you, and I don't know what I’d do without you”)
(“ You are the calm in my life, I’m so thankful that I found you, and I don't know what I’d do without you”)
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