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A Scottish Teashop in Napoli: A heartwarming story of food, friendship and starting over under the Italian sun
Reader Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'Delightful read'
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'Heartwarming'
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'A gorgeous and vivid setting, and a really special romance'
When Lucy's childhood sweetheart leaves her at the altar, her world shatters. But instead of canceling her honeymoon, she boards the plane alone—bound for a sun-soaked island that will change everything.
In Naples, recently widowed Elena is fighting to keep her husband's family mozzarella factory and language school afloat while raising her young son. Desperate to save both businesses, she posts a job advert—and fate delivers Lucy to her doorstep.
Together, these two women—each nursing heartbreak and loss—discover that friendship, food, and a dash of courage can heal even the deepest wounds.
Filled with pasta, laughter, and second chances, this is a story of resilience, renewal, and the unexpected magic of connection.
'Real heart, sunshine and a smattering of Italian, the story is a holiday in book form' People's Friend
'Totally hooked. Loving it. Pictorial, warm and evocative. Really entrancing and beautifully written'. Rula Lenska
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'Delightful read'
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'Heartwarming'
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 'A gorgeous and vivid setting, and a really special romance'
When Lucy's childhood sweetheart leaves her at the altar, her world shatters. But instead of canceling her honeymoon, she boards the plane alone—bound for a sun-soaked island that will change everything.
In Naples, recently widowed Elena is fighting to keep her husband's family mozzarella factory and language school afloat while raising her young son. Desperate to save both businesses, she posts a job advert—and fate delivers Lucy to her doorstep.
Together, these two women—each nursing heartbreak and loss—discover that friendship, food, and a dash of courage can heal even the deepest wounds.
Filled with pasta, laughter, and second chances, this is a story of resilience, renewal, and the unexpected magic of connection.
'Real heart, sunshine and a smattering of Italian, the story is a holiday in book form' People's Friend
'Totally hooked. Loving it. Pictorial, warm and evocative. Really entrancing and beautifully written'. Rula Lenska
367 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 3, 2025
9 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
October 19, 2025
I was pleasantly surprised by this book. It covered heavy topics in a beautiful way because it maintained a focus on the strength of the human spirit, on the power of connections and community and the joy that comes from a great meal or a cup of tea. I enjoyed the character development and was cheering for the leads.
July 6, 2025
Imagine setting off on the holiday of a lifetime, with a dream wedding planned at the end, only to have it all come crashing down when he jilts you by not even getting on the plane.
This is the situation for poor Lucy, left alone in a tropical paradise by her fiance,
She takes the bull (or should I say buffalo?) by the horns and hands in her notice at the school where she taught, after finding an interesting-looking opportunity teaching English to students in Napoli, Italy.
Elena, in Naples, is suffering her tragedy, having been suddenly widowed, with her dream English school to run, as well as her husband's family business, a handmade mozzarella factory to contribute to, plus being there for her son.
I loved this story; a celebration of female friendship, as well as new beginnings, and learning that you have to take every opportunity that comes your way.
Lucy is someone who seems to have always pleased others, and it is beautiful to see how, with the encouragement from her new Neapolitan friends, she blossoms with ideas for herself, as well as learning to love again.
Elena's deep love for her husband and her loyalty to the family lead her to feel like she is failing everyone, including herself. Through this story, you see her grow and develop a friendship with her new English teacher, Lucy, that is more fruitful than she ever thought it would be.
And romance? Of course, there is! Dario, the godfather to Elena's son Stefano, is a hunky police officer who comes to the aid of Lucy in several ways, and the slow burn of this romance is gorgeously built up.
Loss is covered in different forms, and mentions of the effect of the Mafia on families in Italy ground the story in a reality not many live through.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
This is the situation for poor Lucy, left alone in a tropical paradise by her fiance,
She takes the bull (or should I say buffalo?) by the horns and hands in her notice at the school where she taught, after finding an interesting-looking opportunity teaching English to students in Napoli, Italy.
Elena, in Naples, is suffering her tragedy, having been suddenly widowed, with her dream English school to run, as well as her husband's family business, a handmade mozzarella factory to contribute to, plus being there for her son.
I loved this story; a celebration of female friendship, as well as new beginnings, and learning that you have to take every opportunity that comes your way.
Lucy is someone who seems to have always pleased others, and it is beautiful to see how, with the encouragement from her new Neapolitan friends, she blossoms with ideas for herself, as well as learning to love again.
Elena's deep love for her husband and her loyalty to the family lead her to feel like she is failing everyone, including herself. Through this story, you see her grow and develop a friendship with her new English teacher, Lucy, that is more fruitful than she ever thought it would be.
And romance? Of course, there is! Dario, the godfather to Elena's son Stefano, is a hunky police officer who comes to the aid of Lucy in several ways, and the slow burn of this romance is gorgeously built up.
Loss is covered in different forms, and mentions of the effect of the Mafia on families in Italy ground the story in a reality not many live through.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
July 4, 2025
Fresh as a light summer evening breeze, sweet as a smell of warm,baked scones and soothing as a comforting cup of tea afterwards a long day.
I loved this book!!!
I found myself completely drawn into Lucy's journey from a broken engagement to an incredible new life,friendship and love in Naples.
This book beautifully reminds us that then life closes one door, it always opens a new one and best things often happen when we least expect them.
If you're looking for a heartwarming story, you're got to pick this one up.
I loved this book!!!
I found myself completely drawn into Lucy's journey from a broken engagement to an incredible new life,friendship and love in Naples.
This book beautifully reminds us that then life closes one door, it always opens a new one and best things often happen when we least expect them.
If you're looking for a heartwarming story, you're got to pick this one up.
July 20, 2025
What an adorable book and one that I quite enjoyed. All about what life throws at you, good and bad and how we deal with the problems that arise and the goodness of others, friendship made, loss, grief and romance of course. In this book we have Lucy, who recently had her engagement broken and ended up getting a job teaching English in Naples, Italy. Thrown in at the deep end she puts her all into this new job, new family and new way of life.
Then we have Elena, raising her son alone after the sudden death (suspicious!) of her husband. She needs help to keep the English lessons running and in walks Lucy. Suddenly life changes for not only these two but for so many others around them. This is, for the most part, a feel good book with not only some great characters but the Scottish and Italian scenery, food and way of life spring forth from the pages as if you are there.
I really enjoyed this book, there is some grief and sadness but for the most part it is a lovely feel good read.
A Scottish Teashop in Napoli: A heartwarming story of food, friendship and starting over under the Italian sun
Jane Lambert
Then we have Elena, raising her son alone after the sudden death (suspicious!) of her husband. She needs help to keep the English lessons running and in walks Lucy. Suddenly life changes for not only these two but for so many others around them. This is, for the most part, a feel good book with not only some great characters but the Scottish and Italian scenery, food and way of life spring forth from the pages as if you are there.
I really enjoyed this book, there is some grief and sadness but for the most part it is a lovely feel good read.
A Scottish Teashop in Napoli: A heartwarming story of food, friendship and starting over under the Italian sun
Jane Lambert
July 3, 2025
My heart really went out to Lucy as this book began. Stewart might not have been perfect – or even particularly exciting – but she’d made her choice when she agreed to marry him, only to discover, with the worst possible timing, that he’d changed his mind. And then there was the horror and humiliation of finding herself alone in a Caribbean wedding resort, waiting for a flight home to Glasgow – the rose petals hastily cleared from the bed in the bridal suite, and thank goodness for the wonderfully caring and attentive hotel staff.
But she wasn’t the only individual in this book I really felt for. In Naples, recently widowed Elena, despite the help of the family and the support of her husband Giancarlo’s best friend – police officer Dario – is struggling both with her grief and her many responsibilities. She’s mother to six-year-old Stefano, and he’s now the most important person in her life – but she’s being pulled in too many different directions as she tries to run her language school while taking on all the administrative tasks connected with the family mozzarella factory when she knows so little about its running.
Lucy needs a fresh start, Elena needs another pair of hands to help out – and perhaps some emotional support too. An advert brings the two women together, Lucy travelling to Naples, staying in Elena’s apartment in the heart of Naples, overlooking the sea – and it soon becomes evident that they’ve both made exactly the right choice. Teaching at the language school isn’t as demanding as Lucy fears, with an eclectic group of students who are particularly keen to learn – and she comes up with an original idea to help the factory’s finances, inspired by the love of Scottish home cooking she learned from her grandmother.
There’s far, far more to the story – but the author tells it so much better, so I won’t go into all the ensuing twists and turns. But I will say that this was a story I absolutely loved – a summery one with all the perfectly handled emotional touches, but an unexpected amount of very well-written edge-of-seat drama too. There’s also a rather special romance – a particularly slow-burn and satisfying one (and I wouldn’t have been able to resist either – what a gorgeous man!) – and some scenes towards the book’s end that made me think “oh goodness, how perfect!”, bringing a lump to my throat and a tear to my eye, reminding me of every Italian-set love story that’s ever thrilled me on the silver screen.
Every relationship – friends and family – is beautifully handled, with exchanges and actions that really touch the heart. But perhaps the most special relationship of all was the one between Lucy and Elena – slowly opening up, sharing their hopes and fears, healing together. But don’t get the impression that it’s all sadness – this book has all the elements of a good romantic comedy too, with plenty of moments of laughter (and sheer joy) along the way. While Lucy’s brother (most definitely Scottish) found his own special place in my heart as he played his important part in the story, the Italian cast is simply fantastic – every individual, however small their part, springing to life on the page, with just enough background detail, and often with their own particular quirks and eccentricities.
And I really can’t finish without mentioning the story’s setting, which the author brings so vividly to life. The whole book provides a quite wonderful insider view of the city of Naples, in all its chaos and complexity, complete with its darker edges, but also sharing its unique and very special beauty – I reached the end feeling that I’d been away on a rather lovely holiday. Such a special book, and one that I thoroughly enjoyed – and, if you like the same books that I do, I think you might just love it too.
But she wasn’t the only individual in this book I really felt for. In Naples, recently widowed Elena, despite the help of the family and the support of her husband Giancarlo’s best friend – police officer Dario – is struggling both with her grief and her many responsibilities. She’s mother to six-year-old Stefano, and he’s now the most important person in her life – but she’s being pulled in too many different directions as she tries to run her language school while taking on all the administrative tasks connected with the family mozzarella factory when she knows so little about its running.
Lucy needs a fresh start, Elena needs another pair of hands to help out – and perhaps some emotional support too. An advert brings the two women together, Lucy travelling to Naples, staying in Elena’s apartment in the heart of Naples, overlooking the sea – and it soon becomes evident that they’ve both made exactly the right choice. Teaching at the language school isn’t as demanding as Lucy fears, with an eclectic group of students who are particularly keen to learn – and she comes up with an original idea to help the factory’s finances, inspired by the love of Scottish home cooking she learned from her grandmother.
There’s far, far more to the story – but the author tells it so much better, so I won’t go into all the ensuing twists and turns. But I will say that this was a story I absolutely loved – a summery one with all the perfectly handled emotional touches, but an unexpected amount of very well-written edge-of-seat drama too. There’s also a rather special romance – a particularly slow-burn and satisfying one (and I wouldn’t have been able to resist either – what a gorgeous man!) – and some scenes towards the book’s end that made me think “oh goodness, how perfect!”, bringing a lump to my throat and a tear to my eye, reminding me of every Italian-set love story that’s ever thrilled me on the silver screen.
Every relationship – friends and family – is beautifully handled, with exchanges and actions that really touch the heart. But perhaps the most special relationship of all was the one between Lucy and Elena – slowly opening up, sharing their hopes and fears, healing together. But don’t get the impression that it’s all sadness – this book has all the elements of a good romantic comedy too, with plenty of moments of laughter (and sheer joy) along the way. While Lucy’s brother (most definitely Scottish) found his own special place in my heart as he played his important part in the story, the Italian cast is simply fantastic – every individual, however small their part, springing to life on the page, with just enough background detail, and often with their own particular quirks and eccentricities.
And I really can’t finish without mentioning the story’s setting, which the author brings so vividly to life. The whole book provides a quite wonderful insider view of the city of Naples, in all its chaos and complexity, complete with its darker edges, but also sharing its unique and very special beauty – I reached the end feeling that I’d been away on a rather lovely holiday. Such a special book, and one that I thoroughly enjoyed – and, if you like the same books that I do, I think you might just love it too.
July 7, 2025
The Blurb :
When Lucy's childhood sweetheart stands her up on their wedding day, she finds herself alone on a plane to a tropical location. Her dream of a bairn-filled future is gone in a heartbeat and the time it takes for her to listen to the rambling drunken voicemail he left calling off the wedding.
In Naples, Elena is recently widowed and trying to keep her husband's family's beloved and centuries old mozzarella factory afloat, whilst running her language school and bringing up their son. At risk of losing both businesses - and adding even more disruption to their life - she advertises a job and hopes for the best.
The stars seem to align and Elena and Lucy, each suffering from a very different sort of loss and loneliness, set about trying to lift the struggling business and each other.
My Thoughts :
We meet Lucy, she finds herself stood up by fiance Stewart on her very own wedding day and via a voicemail at that.
Lucy decides she needs a fresh start and what better way than to take a new job in another country.
Soon Lucy is on a plane heading off to a teaching job in Naples.
Here she meets Elena, who has suffered her own tragedy, having lost her husband Giancarlo suddenly.
Elena has to raise their son Stefano, continue running her English schooling business and run her husband's handmade mozzarella factory.
Soon as the two get close and become friends, Elena takes on board Lucy’s ideas for the business and its the best thing to happen for both of them.
Jane Lambert certainly takes the reader on a rollercoaster of a ride and to such a beautiful place. Getting lost in the sights and sounds of Napoli, the reader will feel like they are on an Italian holiday, right in the mix of the action and experiencing delicious foods.
A story about hope, friends, love and second chances.
Looking forward to more soon.
When Lucy's childhood sweetheart stands her up on their wedding day, she finds herself alone on a plane to a tropical location. Her dream of a bairn-filled future is gone in a heartbeat and the time it takes for her to listen to the rambling drunken voicemail he left calling off the wedding.
In Naples, Elena is recently widowed and trying to keep her husband's family's beloved and centuries old mozzarella factory afloat, whilst running her language school and bringing up their son. At risk of losing both businesses - and adding even more disruption to their life - she advertises a job and hopes for the best.
The stars seem to align and Elena and Lucy, each suffering from a very different sort of loss and loneliness, set about trying to lift the struggling business and each other.
My Thoughts :
We meet Lucy, she finds herself stood up by fiance Stewart on her very own wedding day and via a voicemail at that.
Lucy decides she needs a fresh start and what better way than to take a new job in another country.
Soon Lucy is on a plane heading off to a teaching job in Naples.
Here she meets Elena, who has suffered her own tragedy, having lost her husband Giancarlo suddenly.
Elena has to raise their son Stefano, continue running her English schooling business and run her husband's handmade mozzarella factory.
Soon as the two get close and become friends, Elena takes on board Lucy’s ideas for the business and its the best thing to happen for both of them.
Jane Lambert certainly takes the reader on a rollercoaster of a ride and to such a beautiful place. Getting lost in the sights and sounds of Napoli, the reader will feel like they are on an Italian holiday, right in the mix of the action and experiencing delicious foods.
A story about hope, friends, love and second chances.
Looking forward to more soon.
July 3, 2025
Being married to a Scotsman, it should come as no surprise that I love books with a Scottish theme. Add to that my desire to visit Italy, and this book could have been written just for me.
After being jilted in the most heartless way imaginable, Lucy manages to dust herself down and rearrange her priorities making herself number one. She accepts a new job working in an Italian language school in Naples, and helping young widow, Elena with her gorgeous son.
As painful as Lucy’s experience was, it was impossible not to feel the devastation that Elena had endured through losing her husband and raising her son alone. Determined to continue her husband’s dream of seeing his family’s Mozzarella factory thrive, she has been working too hard and neglecting the parts of her heart and soul that needed to be sustained.
The arrival of Lucy brings a gentle calmness to Elena’s world, and like a cooling compress, she radiates that to all elements of her new life. Similarly, Elena’s determination to see the businesses thrive proves to be contagious and Lucy soon channels her desire to start over and introduces new elements to the language school and the factory.
This beautiful book boasts some wonderful characters, and I loved so many of them, but I must give special mentions to Dario, who is mourning for his best friend, and Matteo who was saved from a life of crime by being given the opportunity to work at the factory and focus on earning and turning his life around.
I loved having a front row seat to watch both Elena and Lucy slowly heal from their traumas and to see them begin to rebuild their lives was a joy. Jane Lambert told this story beautifully and I loved everything about it. I will certainly be looking forward to her future books and reading them hungrily.
After being jilted in the most heartless way imaginable, Lucy manages to dust herself down and rearrange her priorities making herself number one. She accepts a new job working in an Italian language school in Naples, and helping young widow, Elena with her gorgeous son.
As painful as Lucy’s experience was, it was impossible not to feel the devastation that Elena had endured through losing her husband and raising her son alone. Determined to continue her husband’s dream of seeing his family’s Mozzarella factory thrive, she has been working too hard and neglecting the parts of her heart and soul that needed to be sustained.
The arrival of Lucy brings a gentle calmness to Elena’s world, and like a cooling compress, she radiates that to all elements of her new life. Similarly, Elena’s determination to see the businesses thrive proves to be contagious and Lucy soon channels her desire to start over and introduces new elements to the language school and the factory.
This beautiful book boasts some wonderful characters, and I loved so many of them, but I must give special mentions to Dario, who is mourning for his best friend, and Matteo who was saved from a life of crime by being given the opportunity to work at the factory and focus on earning and turning his life around.
I loved having a front row seat to watch both Elena and Lucy slowly heal from their traumas and to see them begin to rebuild their lives was a joy. Jane Lambert told this story beautifully and I loved everything about it. I will certainly be looking forward to her future books and reading them hungrily.
June 25, 2025
A Scottish Teashop In Napoli by Jane Lambert is the most delightful contemporary novel that I thoroughly enjoyed.
All the characters were wonderfully warm and welcoming. They wrapped around the reader as we received a virtual hug in a book.
The novel opens in Scotland but we soon travel to Naples as a character has a complete change of life following a public jilting.
Scotland represents the past. Naples equals a new beginning. The scenery was bright and sunny. The characters opened their homes and their hearts to a young Scottish woman.
Throughout the novel, the reader’s taste buds are tempted to delicious sounding food fayre. I was pleased to find the inclusion of recipes at the back of the book.
Characters bond over food. The food ‘speaks’ of love. “Whenever Lucy baked, she could feel her grandmother beside her.” Her Grandmother introduced Lucy to her love of baking which became her passion.
There is much grief within the novel as a young widow misses her husband. “Grief comes in waves.” Sometimes those waves were ripples, at other times it was a tidal wave. In a close community, the loss is felt by many. “It was irrational, but he couldn’t help but feel guilty for having been unable to save his friend.” Sometimes, despite our best efforts, people die. We must not feel guilty for what we cannot change.
A young boy aged six is without his father. Characters gather around to make his childhood special. The love shines through.
A slice of Scotland is delivered to Naples in the form of a teashop. The reader ‘experiences’ some of the traditions along with the characters.
A character makes a radical life change declaring “if not now, when?”
The reader sees the devastating effects of the Mafia. They will stop at nothing. Big hearted characters step in and up where they can.
We see the importance of choosing well. “We have a choice… Do we let the past control our future, or do we use it to make us stronger?” We all need to learn from the lessons of the past.
I adored A Scottish Teashop In Napoli. I ‘lived’ the action and really would like to know what happened next.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Radom Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
All the characters were wonderfully warm and welcoming. They wrapped around the reader as we received a virtual hug in a book.
The novel opens in Scotland but we soon travel to Naples as a character has a complete change of life following a public jilting.
Scotland represents the past. Naples equals a new beginning. The scenery was bright and sunny. The characters opened their homes and their hearts to a young Scottish woman.
Throughout the novel, the reader’s taste buds are tempted to delicious sounding food fayre. I was pleased to find the inclusion of recipes at the back of the book.
Characters bond over food. The food ‘speaks’ of love. “Whenever Lucy baked, she could feel her grandmother beside her.” Her Grandmother introduced Lucy to her love of baking which became her passion.
There is much grief within the novel as a young widow misses her husband. “Grief comes in waves.” Sometimes those waves were ripples, at other times it was a tidal wave. In a close community, the loss is felt by many. “It was irrational, but he couldn’t help but feel guilty for having been unable to save his friend.” Sometimes, despite our best efforts, people die. We must not feel guilty for what we cannot change.
A young boy aged six is without his father. Characters gather around to make his childhood special. The love shines through.
A slice of Scotland is delivered to Naples in the form of a teashop. The reader ‘experiences’ some of the traditions along with the characters.
A character makes a radical life change declaring “if not now, when?”
The reader sees the devastating effects of the Mafia. They will stop at nothing. Big hearted characters step in and up where they can.
We see the importance of choosing well. “We have a choice… Do we let the past control our future, or do we use it to make us stronger?” We all need to learn from the lessons of the past.
I adored A Scottish Teashop In Napoli. I ‘lived’ the action and really would like to know what happened next.
I received a free copy via Rachel’s Radom Resources for a blog tour. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
July 6, 2025
A Scottish Teashop in Napoli by Jane Lambert
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
When Lucy's childhood sweetheart stands her up on their wedding day, she finds herself alone on a plane to a tropical location. Her dream of a bairn-filled future is gone in a heartbeat and the time it takes for her to listen to the rambling drunken voicemail he left calling off the wedding.
In Naples, Elena is recently widowed and trying to keep her husband's family's beloved and centuries old mozzarella factory afloat, whilst running her language school and bringing up their son. At risk of losing both businesses - and adding even more disruption to their life - she advertises a job and hopes for the best.
The stars seem to align and Elena and Lucy, each suffering from a very different sort of loss and loneliness, set about trying to lift the struggling business and each other.
A charming, tender and funny novel about the power of female friendships, the importance of letting go and the joys of eating pasta!
My Opinion
During the opening chapter of this book, I really felt for Lucy. Elena needs some help and Lucy is in need of a fresh start. Jane Lambert has written a stunning novel that takes the reader on a journey. With wonderful descriptions and lovely characters this was an enjoyable book to read.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
When Lucy's childhood sweetheart stands her up on their wedding day, she finds herself alone on a plane to a tropical location. Her dream of a bairn-filled future is gone in a heartbeat and the time it takes for her to listen to the rambling drunken voicemail he left calling off the wedding.
In Naples, Elena is recently widowed and trying to keep her husband's family's beloved and centuries old mozzarella factory afloat, whilst running her language school and bringing up their son. At risk of losing both businesses - and adding even more disruption to their life - she advertises a job and hopes for the best.
The stars seem to align and Elena and Lucy, each suffering from a very different sort of loss and loneliness, set about trying to lift the struggling business and each other.
A charming, tender and funny novel about the power of female friendships, the importance of letting go and the joys of eating pasta!
My Opinion
During the opening chapter of this book, I really felt for Lucy. Elena needs some help and Lucy is in need of a fresh start. Jane Lambert has written a stunning novel that takes the reader on a journey. With wonderful descriptions and lovely characters this was an enjoyable book to read.
Rating 4/5
July 6, 2025
What a lovely story to sit and escape with. I absolutely loved this easy read that centred around the importance of friendship and the true qualities of love. It is also a beacon of light to show that you can come back from something that sets you back and find yourself in a better place.
Elena and Lucy are lovely characters who find comfort and salvation from each other and move forwards together, supported by family and friends. The taking of small steps along with huge leaps of faith is paramount within the storyline. I love the fact that Elena and Lucy have that beautiful friendship which balances each other perfectly like a set of old fashioned weighing scales. As the book progresses and other friendships and family appear we start to get a real depth to the narrative and I really loved Lucy’s brother Jamie along with Elena’s family.
If that isn’t enough there are also recipes at the end for cakes that Lucy has baked in the story and believe you me the Torte al Limoncello is amazing. I would have included a picture , however we had eaten it all before I thought about that , oops…………
A perfect book to read with a bowlful of Pasta Al Forno followed by a slice ( or two) of Torte al Limoncello when you have a few hours to yourself for “Me Time”
Elena and Lucy are lovely characters who find comfort and salvation from each other and move forwards together, supported by family and friends. The taking of small steps along with huge leaps of faith is paramount within the storyline. I love the fact that Elena and Lucy have that beautiful friendship which balances each other perfectly like a set of old fashioned weighing scales. As the book progresses and other friendships and family appear we start to get a real depth to the narrative and I really loved Lucy’s brother Jamie along with Elena’s family.
If that isn’t enough there are also recipes at the end for cakes that Lucy has baked in the story and believe you me the Torte al Limoncello is amazing. I would have included a picture , however we had eaten it all before I thought about that , oops…………
A perfect book to read with a bowlful of Pasta Al Forno followed by a slice ( or two) of Torte al Limoncello when you have a few hours to yourself for “Me Time”
July 12, 2025
This beautifully written story is a celebration of unexpected second chances, blossoming friendships, and the strength that comes from starting over. After being left behind by her fiancé, Lucy’s impulsive move to Naples sets her on a path of self-discovery and renewal. There, she meets Elena, a widowed mother trying to keep both her late husband’s language school and cheese business afloat. Their shared grief and resilience form the foundation of a touching friendship.
Lucy begins to rediscover her voice and dreams, encouraged by the warmth of her Neapolitan surroundings and a budding connection with Dario—the swoon-worthy police officer and godfather to Elena’s son. Elena’s journey is equally poignant, as she learns she doesn’t have to carry her burdens alone.
The story explores loss, love, and loyalty with heartfelt sincerity while giving a nod to real-world challenges like the shadow of organized crime on local families. The setting, the characters, and the rich emotional layers make this a charming and thoughtful read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Thank you,Rachel's Random Resources, NetGalley, Bedford Square Publishers, and the author for providing me with an arc of this book. All opinions are my own.
Lucy begins to rediscover her voice and dreams, encouraged by the warmth of her Neapolitan surroundings and a budding connection with Dario—the swoon-worthy police officer and godfather to Elena’s son. Elena’s journey is equally poignant, as she learns she doesn’t have to carry her burdens alone.
The story explores loss, love, and loyalty with heartfelt sincerity while giving a nod to real-world challenges like the shadow of organized crime on local families. The setting, the characters, and the rich emotional layers make this a charming and thoughtful read that I thoroughly enjoyed.
Thank you,Rachel's Random Resources, NetGalley, Bedford Square Publishers, and the author for providing me with an arc of this book. All opinions are my own.
July 5, 2025
I'm reviewing this as part of a tour with Rachel's Random Resources.
At the start of the book, bride-to-be Lucy finds herself heartbroken. Instead of saying”I do”, the love of her life leaves her alone, with only a voicemail as an explanation. Lucy decides to take advantage of her unexpected freedom, and goes to Naples, where she befriends Elena, who is still grieving the untimely death of her husband, after seventeen years together. Now that he's gone, Elena has to raise their son, Stefano, by herself.
From the beginning, this book made me smile. I felt that Lucy and Elena both needed a fresh start, and their newfound friendship happened at just the right time. I found it heartwarming and uplifting to read, and it seemed to speak to the fact that sometimes, a good friend is all we really need. The story felt like an escape too, as it whisked me away to Italy without leaving the comfort of my armchair. It was a fabulous, feel-good read that lifted my mood, and I appreciated the recipes too.
Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
At the start of the book, bride-to-be Lucy finds herself heartbroken. Instead of saying”I do”, the love of her life leaves her alone, with only a voicemail as an explanation. Lucy decides to take advantage of her unexpected freedom, and goes to Naples, where she befriends Elena, who is still grieving the untimely death of her husband, after seventeen years together. Now that he's gone, Elena has to raise their son, Stefano, by herself.
From the beginning, this book made me smile. I felt that Lucy and Elena both needed a fresh start, and their newfound friendship happened at just the right time. I found it heartwarming and uplifting to read, and it seemed to speak to the fact that sometimes, a good friend is all we really need. The story felt like an escape too, as it whisked me away to Italy without leaving the comfort of my armchair. It was a fabulous, feel-good read that lifted my mood, and I appreciated the recipes too.
Thank you to Rachel's Random Resources, and to the author and publisher, for the opportunity to read and review this.
July 10, 2025
This is such a good story! The only thing preventing me giving it 5 stars is it feels a little incomplete, as if there’ll be another book to make it a series.
But both Lucy and Elena are fabulous, well-rounded characters and the reader feels for them and their griefs, though quite different. Lucy’s fiancé dumped her by voicemail (seriously!) while Elena’s husband has passed away. Taking a risk, Lucy flies to Napoli for a teaching job, where the two women meet.
Lucy seems to have always put others first, so it’s lovely to see how she blossoms with ideas for herself with the encouragement of her new Italian friends, as well as learning to love again. To be honest, I was a teeny bit disappointed that said love interest is Elena’s son’s godfather and not Elena, but the burn was slow and satisfactory, so I’ll forgive this for not being a sapphic romance!
As I mentioned, there are hints of there being at least one more book, dealing (I presume) with the tentative, blossoming romance on Elena’s side of things. This one is a story of feminine friendship, community, and healing from loss, set in gorgeous countryside with depictions so vivid, you’ll feel the sun on your face.
But both Lucy and Elena are fabulous, well-rounded characters and the reader feels for them and their griefs, though quite different. Lucy’s fiancé dumped her by voicemail (seriously!) while Elena’s husband has passed away. Taking a risk, Lucy flies to Napoli for a teaching job, where the two women meet.
Lucy seems to have always put others first, so it’s lovely to see how she blossoms with ideas for herself with the encouragement of her new Italian friends, as well as learning to love again. To be honest, I was a teeny bit disappointed that said love interest is Elena’s son’s godfather and not Elena, but the burn was slow and satisfactory, so I’ll forgive this for not being a sapphic romance!
As I mentioned, there are hints of there being at least one more book, dealing (I presume) with the tentative, blossoming romance on Elena’s side of things. This one is a story of feminine friendship, community, and healing from loss, set in gorgeous countryside with depictions so vivid, you’ll feel the sun on your face.
July 6, 2025
I would firstly just like to say a big thank you to Rachel’s Random Resources who very kindly forwarded me an arc copy of this book, for my Kindle, in turn for my honest review…
This was actually the first book that i had read from this author and i went in blind, not knowing much about it, only the blurb but I thoroughly enjoyed it and was soon pulled into the book and it did not let me go again until i had devoured it all.
A Scottish Teashop In Napoli was written really well and i honestly felt as though i was inside the pages. I loved the setting in Naples and it was the most lovely armchair travel and i loved being absorbed in all its goodness.
I loved all the wonderful characters, not only the main ones but many of the side characters too and they all added that certain something to the storyline and helped me want to carry on reading.
This was a charming, heartwarming and funny story, full of the goodness of friendship and had some lovely little twists and turns that carry the story along nicely and kept me wanting more…..
This was actually the first book that i had read from this author and i went in blind, not knowing much about it, only the blurb but I thoroughly enjoyed it and was soon pulled into the book and it did not let me go again until i had devoured it all.
A Scottish Teashop In Napoli was written really well and i honestly felt as though i was inside the pages. I loved the setting in Naples and it was the most lovely armchair travel and i loved being absorbed in all its goodness.
I loved all the wonderful characters, not only the main ones but many of the side characters too and they all added that certain something to the storyline and helped me want to carry on reading.
This was a charming, heartwarming and funny story, full of the goodness of friendship and had some lovely little twists and turns that carry the story along nicely and kept me wanting more…..
July 8, 2025
Lucy and Elena are brought together in Naples and are both nursing a broken heart, although for different reasons. Lucy has been jilted on the way to her wedding, whilst Elena has been left a young widow, with a language school, cheese factory businesses to run. They are both wary of starting new relationships but their friendship flourishes as the days go on. The family business gives Elana much support but it is clear that there is something dark threatening everyone's happiness, below the surface.
The theme of friendship is a strong one and I enjoyed the range of characters who Lucy meets during her time in Naples. The pupils in the language school and the workers in the factory add colour to the story and some heart warming moments. Both Lucy and Elena have to work through their feelings of loneliness and loss and offer each other mutual support. There is a slow burn romance or two beneath the surface which adds to the story's charm and hints at a possible follow-up, if Jane is minded to write it.
love, friendship, family and community
Thanks to the publisher
The theme of friendship is a strong one and I enjoyed the range of characters who Lucy meets during her time in Naples. The pupils in the language school and the workers in the factory add colour to the story and some heart warming moments. Both Lucy and Elena have to work through their feelings of loneliness and loss and offer each other mutual support. There is a slow burn romance or two beneath the surface which adds to the story's charm and hints at a possible follow-up, if Jane is minded to write it.
love, friendship, family and community
Thanks to the publisher
July 4, 2025
Just finished this amazing read and just wow!
There’s nothing I love more than reading about women supporting women and in this heartfelt novel of heartbreak Jane really focuses and hones in on fate and how sometimes what we can think is the worst time of our lives actually turns out to lead us to our biggest blessings.
I really connected with this novel and these characters, so much so I’ve found myself up at 1am, unable to go to bed until I finished this novel, this why I am here past midnight writing this review because I couldn’t even wait a second to gush about how much this read ment to me. Both of these women although at different stages of their lives I could connect to, this author has a way of writing characters that feel like their right there next to you, not only did I see my self in these women but I also felt like their friend. I truly hope this author releases more books soon because I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
There’s nothing I love more than reading about women supporting women and in this heartfelt novel of heartbreak Jane really focuses and hones in on fate and how sometimes what we can think is the worst time of our lives actually turns out to lead us to our biggest blessings.
I really connected with this novel and these characters, so much so I’ve found myself up at 1am, unable to go to bed until I finished this novel, this why I am here past midnight writing this review because I couldn’t even wait a second to gush about how much this read ment to me. Both of these women although at different stages of their lives I could connect to, this author has a way of writing characters that feel like their right there next to you, not only did I see my self in these women but I also felt like their friend. I truly hope this author releases more books soon because I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next!
July 16, 2025
I love a good summer read where every character is likeable! A story that follows a blossoming friendship of two very different women- One who has recently lost her husband and is trying to keep her business running. The other who was on her way to get married to her bf of 20 years to be dumped on the flight!
I loved the way they connected and found home in each other- lifting each other up and seeing a relationship unfold in a realistic timeline (which isn't often the case with romances!)
"Up there in the sky, away from all the angst and turmoil, she had an epiphany moment; she had been relying on someone else all these years for her happiness. It is you, yourself, who should make you feel complete, said a voice in her head"
A wholesome, fast-paced story which has everything that makes a great read ❤️
I loved the way they connected and found home in each other- lifting each other up and seeing a relationship unfold in a realistic timeline (which isn't often the case with romances!)
"Up there in the sky, away from all the angst and turmoil, she had an epiphany moment; she had been relying on someone else all these years for her happiness. It is you, yourself, who should make you feel complete, said a voice in her head"
A wholesome, fast-paced story which has everything that makes a great read ❤️
July 13, 2025
Set between the beautiful locations of Scotland and Naples (and briefly Antigua!) fate intervenes allowing Lucy Anderson and Elena Morreti to find each other. Both are dealing with sadness and loss, both need a new chapter and unknowingly each other. They form a genuine friendship bond and Lucy is immediately immersed in Neapolitan life helping with Elena’s struggling businesses. I loved the concept of a Scottish Teashop in Naples - Torta Al Limoncello sat next to Dundee cake. With a balanced mix of overcoming the good and bad life throws Elena and Lucy’s way I thoroughly enjoyed this book and was transported to the Bay of Naples and the mighty backdrop of Mount Vesuvius. This is a perfetto summer read that had me longing for a pizza and weirdly some Scottish tablet!
July 5, 2025
It's the first book I've read from Lambert and I can see I've clearly been missing out!
Exquisitely written and rich in detail, Lambert immediately transported me to different shores and delighted with a story of love, loss, and friendships.
Taking place across the stunning locations of Scotland and Italy, scenes are set, rich in description and evocative.
There's a wonderful cast of characters too, warm and embracing. By the time the book ended it was like saying goodbye to old friends.
And the food...not only is there lots to tempt your taste buds throughout the book, when you get to the end there's recipes too!
An absolute joy to read, I loved every minute.
Exquisitely written and rich in detail, Lambert immediately transported me to different shores and delighted with a story of love, loss, and friendships.
Taking place across the stunning locations of Scotland and Italy, scenes are set, rich in description and evocative.
There's a wonderful cast of characters too, warm and embracing. By the time the book ended it was like saying goodbye to old friends.
And the food...not only is there lots to tempt your taste buds throughout the book, when you get to the end there's recipes too!
An absolute joy to read, I loved every minute.
July 3, 2025
I love stories set in Italy, and this was no exception. It was a great story of female friendship with some mystery and romance sprinkled in. Lucy ends up in Naples after being stood up at the altar. She heads there to help run Elena's language school after she loses her husband and is overwhelmed with running her husband's mozzarella factory. It follows Lucy and Elena's friendship, when Lucy ends up in Naples to help Elena run her language school after the loss of her husband. The bonus was the immersion in life in Naples, the food, the life, the culture. Lucy brought her Scottish culture to Napoli by creating a Scottish tearoom, as well as her English language lessons. This is the first story I've read by this author, and it won't be my last.
Thanks to @bedfordsquarepublishers, @netgalley, and the author for this arc.
Thanks to @bedfordsquarepublishers, @netgalley, and the author for this arc.
July 10, 2025
🩷 Blurb -
When Lucy's childhood sweetheart stands her up on their wedding day, she finds herself alone on a plane to a tropical location. Her dream of a bairn-filled future is gone in a heartbeat and the time it takes for her to listen to the rambling drunken voicemail he left calling off the wedding.
In Naples, Elena is recently widowed and trying to keep her husband's family's beloved and centuries old mozzarella factory afloat, whilst running her language school and bringing up their son. At risk of losing both businesses - and adding even more disruption to their life - she advertises a job and hopes for the best.
The stars seem to align and Elena and Lucy, each suffering from a very different sort of loss and loneliness, set about trying to lift the struggling business and each other.
A charming, tender and funny novel about the power of female friendships, the importance of letting go and the joys of eating pasta!
💜 Review -
This was such a beautifully written contemporary novel. It's the perfect summer read. I was hooked from the very first page and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. I loved the easy to follow story, the place settings in the book sounded beautiful and the pacing was just right. I also loved the great mix of characters. Overall, a brilliant novel that I highly recommend to other readers. I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to Random Things Tours, the author and publisher for my copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
When Lucy's childhood sweetheart stands her up on their wedding day, she finds herself alone on a plane to a tropical location. Her dream of a bairn-filled future is gone in a heartbeat and the time it takes for her to listen to the rambling drunken voicemail he left calling off the wedding.
In Naples, Elena is recently widowed and trying to keep her husband's family's beloved and centuries old mozzarella factory afloat, whilst running her language school and bringing up their son. At risk of losing both businesses - and adding even more disruption to their life - she advertises a job and hopes for the best.
The stars seem to align and Elena and Lucy, each suffering from a very different sort of loss and loneliness, set about trying to lift the struggling business and each other.
A charming, tender and funny novel about the power of female friendships, the importance of letting go and the joys of eating pasta!
💜 Review -
This was such a beautifully written contemporary novel. It's the perfect summer read. I was hooked from the very first page and I kept reading until the end as I wanted to know what happened. I loved the easy to follow story, the place settings in the book sounded beautiful and the pacing was just right. I also loved the great mix of characters. Overall, a brilliant novel that I highly recommend to other readers. I look forward to reading more by the author.
💝 Thank you to Random Things Tours, the author and publisher for my copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
July 6, 2025
This book was such a delight to read, it is fundamentally a book on friendship between two women who are forced to restart their lives from different forms of grief. I loved the sense of community and the blending of both Italian and Scottish cultures felt truly authentic and the family dynamics was beautiful. The message I took from this book was its ok to rebuild, find hope and joy in all the small details
July 15, 2025
This is such a good read, perfect for reading on holiday, in the garden, curled up on the sofa, anywhere actually!
Lucy and Elana two women who form a friendship after both going through very different heartbreaks.
A story of healing and starting afresh, full of fun and really tender moments.
I loved it, the cover, the title, the writing, the story and also the fabulous characters.
@randomthingstours @janealexandralambert @bedfordsq.publishers #ascottishteashopinnapoli
#bookstagram
July 10, 2025
A lovely story that warms the cockles of your heart as you follow the lives of two strangers who become friends. Both Elena and Lucy are feeling alone for different reasons but as their friendship develops, they each discover a new zest for life. Set between Scotland and Naples, this book gives the reader the best of both worlds. Tenderly written and can thoroughly recommend.
July 15, 2025
As soon as I saw the description of this book, I knew I wanted to read it. I'm Scottish myself, in fact I'm also from west central Scotland and there's plenty of times things really resonated or I recognised. I always love to read a book about things and places I can relate to myself. Lucy's story did pull me in right away, jilted at the aisle, I felt for her, however as the book unfolded, it was very clear that she dodged a bullet! I also loved the organic way in which she decides to go to Italy and how both ladies helped each other to heal in ways from their respective heartache. I enjoyed all the characters and the relationship build up, I really loved the Scottish references and the things that I remember myself from my childhood. I was rooting for them all and I wanted them to get their happy endings too. A lovely wee story , I'd also love to get another book with Jamie's story!
December 20, 2025
This book had it all...romance, foreign lands, customs & languages, family ties, friendships, life lessons, drama & danger!
Extremely entertaining. An added bonus is the recipes that are shared at the end of the book.
Recommend: Yes.
Extremely entertaining. An added bonus is the recipes that are shared at the end of the book.
Recommend: Yes.
September 14, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. Spot on! Very poignant at the moment.
September 21, 2025
Typical romcom but I love Naples & recipes at the end of the book which are always an added bonus. Should be a 3 star but these make it a 4 for me
November 26, 2025
enjoyed this surprisingly good book
December 6, 2025
This audio book transported me to Italy and was a lovely reminder that the worst times in one’s life can end up becoming a wonderful new opportunity.
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