Village Life: Discover Tuscan-Inspired Hospitality and Intentional Living

by Angela Correll

Author, entrepreneur, and part-time Tuscan resident Angela Correll shares charming reflections on her everyday experiences in Italy, along with valuable lessons to help readers enrich their lives, wherever they call home.  

Grab your cappuccino and settle in for a sweet taste of village life. 

After several trips to Italy over the last 25 years, Angela Correll and her husband, Jess, decided to take the leap and put down roots in a tiny Tuscan village, restoring a centuries-old horse stable into the home of their dreams. 

Angela invites you to immerse yourself in the captivating and quirky culture of her small hilltop village as she shares observations, stories, photographs, recipes, and ideas from her time in Tuscany. Along the way, you’ll discover little life lessons that will put a smile on your face and inspire you to add a bit of Tuscan charm and wisdom to your everyday life.         
              
 

Genres: Book Club, Cookbooks

224 pages, Hardcover

Published September 9, 2025

About the author

Angela Correll is the author of Restored in Tuscany, released March, 2024, along with Grounded, Guarded and Granted, a trilogy of novels that became Amazon bestsellers and have been adapted to the stage for sold-out audiences. She is also co-founder of Wilderness Road Hospitality, a suite of hospitality businesses in Stanford, Kentucky.

Reviews

[Claudia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you Angela, for allowing me to be part of your launch team. I absolutely loved this book!
Your detailed descriptions of the places you visited and the colorful imagery of the village made me feel as though I was walking along side you through the village. The included recipes are a delightful bonus, offering a way to bring the flavors of Italy right into my own kitchen. I especially enjoyed the BRING ITALY HOME SECTIONS in each chapter-such a creative and thoughtful way to connect readers more deeply with the journey. This book is a true gift for anyone who loves travel, food, and the charm of small villages.

[Carmen Lake · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to read an advanced copy of "Village Life" by Angela Correll. The book describes Village Life in a way that not only makes you feel like you are there but will also make you dream of one day having your own seat at the table.
You will feel like you know the people in the village, learn about their customs, holidays, and some Italian and delicious recipes along the way. This also makes a great read for Book Clubs as it includes questions along the way to make you think about how you can make changes in your daily life. Allowing you to bring that Village Life feel into your life right where you are today as you dream of visiting a Tuscan Village.

[Robin Noe · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am enjoying reading Angela’s new book Village Life: Discover Tuscan-Inspired Hospitality and Intentional Living. It is captivating, informative and inspiring. I love the way Angela makes you feel that you are taking this journey with her and Jess.

Thanks Angela Correll for sharing this inspiring book Village Life with us. The writing was so powerful and the imagery was beautiful.

[Megan Kunze · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Village Life is a delightful journey into the rhythms of everyday existence in a Tuscan village. It captures the essence of slow living with a tender eye for detail, weaving together charming stories of neighbors, traditions, and seasonal rituals. What makes the book especially engaging is its ability to transport you directly into the heart of Tuscany. You can almost hear the chatter of the villagers, smell the herbs from a simmering pot, and feel the sun warming the stone walls of the village.

Equally enchanting are the recipes scattered throughout its pages. More than simple instructions, they are little heirlooms - dishes tied to family gatherings, harvest celebrations, and quiet evenings at home. Cooking from them feels like sharing a table with the villagers themselves.

Warm, inviting, and filled with affection for the land and its people, The Village Life is both a celebration of tradition and an invitation to savor the beauty of simple, meaningful moments. It’s the kind of book you’ll want to linger over, much like a long Tuscan meal.

[tara gilliam · Rating 5 out of 5]

From feeling like you’re experiencing life in the Tuscan culture to insights on how to weave the Italian communal ways into our daily experiences, you’re sure to feel inspired by all Village Life has to offer. Beautiful visuals displayed through out this book alongside the simple yet tasty recipes elevate the experience of reading this book. This book has been awarded a coveted space on my “read it more than once” shelf.

[Teri Pike · Rating 5 out of 5]

Angela brings Tuscany and Village living to Life in her book. I had the privilege to visit and she transports me right back to that magical place with her perfect descriptions of life in small “town”
Italy. Her pictures are so beautiful and the recipes are awesome. Can’t wait to try them all.

[Capi Cohen · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Village Life” transported me back to the Tuscany I visited last year. It refreshed my soul with beauty (in the book’s photos), with kindness (in the author’s words), and with a thirst for peace and good food (in the bringing Tuscany home suggestions and recipes). If you long for ancient walls and Italian vistas, this is the book for you.

[Olivia Talbott · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you been to Italy or dreamed of going (like myself)? This book is you for you! It’s full of stunning photography as well as an intimate and engaging glimpse into an Italian village. It makes me wonder what my own life would look like if I incorporated a bit of the “community living” that Italians seem to do so well. I’ve found the charm isn’t just for appearances, but is a deeply rooted way of life and one I think we’d all do well to heed.

Between these covers you’ll find:

- Wonderful quotes
- Delicious Recipes
- Incredible photography
- A thoughtful & Inspirational narrative on Italian life by someone who’s come to love it.

Some of my favorite quotes:

“It's common for many of us to greet someone and ask how they are without really expecting an honest response. We often respond with "Fine, thank you," even when our world is falling apart. Not so in a small Tuscan village. If you venture beyond "good morning" and ask, "How are you?" in Italian, be prepared. You are likely to get a very honest answer.”

“Gifts are often given with a great deal of flourish, sometimes accompanied by ribbons and colored paper or even delicate silk flowers, usually presented with two hands.”


“While la tavola translates to “the table," the meaning is nuanced far beyond a piece of flat wood holding food and cutlery. It is about friends and family interacting together over food, making connections and conversation, while both body and soul are nurtured.

“Chi va piano va sano e lontano.
He who goes slowly goes healthy and far.”
-Italian Proverb

While I was privileged enough to receive an advance copy, all opinions and reviews are my own.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

Travel through the pages of Village Life to Tuscany, where the community is rich and the pace of living is intentionally slower. Angela beautifully magnifies the culture and hospitality of her Tuscan village, inspiring and drawing the reader into a world that she makes feel not so far away. With recipe ideas and “Bring Italy Home” sections in each chapter, the reader is invited to experience pieces of Tuscan living right where they live. These sections are lovely reminders that we can cultivate the same kind of connection and hospitality in our own communities.

In addition to the thoughtful reflections, hospitality tips and delicious recipes, Village Life is a gorgeous display-worthy hardcover book. You will want to read it cover to cover and then display it on your coffee table to pick up again and again. There is truly something for everyone in Village Life, and I can’t recommend it enough!


While I was privileged enough to receive an advance copy, all opinions and reviews are my own.

[Tracy Harr · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful read! From the description of Village life in Italy to photos included in the book. The words paint a picture of the community of Montefollonico, in the Tuscan hillside. It is obvious the love the author has for the community and the history she and her husband have discovered.
The photographs of the hillside, agriculture and the details of architecture. I particularly enjoyed the pictures of the amazing wooden doors and metal work on them.
If you are looking for a unique gift for someone consider this book!
If you have visited this region then this will take you back. If you haven’t visited then you will feel as though you have after reading “Village Life”.

[Ruthie · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you have been to Italy or are dreaming of traveling the Tuscan countryside, this is the book for you!
Not only do you get an insight to the Italian way of life, Angela eloquently shares the
lessons and challenges learned from encounters with the people she now calls friends.
The pictures of the food, wine, and rustic beauty are so vivid that they make your mouth water and long for a Tuscan Village to call your own.
Reading his book gave me a deep appreciation for the need to slow down and savor every meal and every moment of life.

[John Lafferty · Rating 5 out of 5]

It is hard to describe how travelling out of your own backyard can change a person. Travelling to other states opens you up to seeing how other people live. Travelling to a different country opens you up to vastly different lifestyles. This book does a fantastic job of showing how life is in a small rustic Tuscan village. I had the privilege to spend time in this town and meet some of these people. This is a wonderful insight into living full fantastic life in a small village. I cannot wait to return and soak up the peace you feel by simply being there.

[Cathy Day · Rating 5 out of 5]

Angela s new book Village Life is a book that once you have read it yourself , you will have come with a list of friends and family to gift it to. The word pictures and photography of life in a Tuscany Village are so warm and inviting, you feel as if you are are having morning coffee with Angela r. But with every chapter is an application of how we can bring the slower pace. , intentional living home to where we live… no matter what size town or city.
Thank you Angela

[Susan Park · Rating 5 out of 5]

This beautiful book encapsulates Angela’s gift of hospitality in Tuscany, Italy. I absolutely love all the gorgeous photographs, stories, and recipes that she shares.

I connected with Angela during the GoodLit Retreat in Kentucky last year and personally experienced her generous hospitality. She is a woman that I admire and respect in the way she lives with such integrity, warmth, and generosity.
I feel like this book is a natural extension of her.

[Lea Ann Poynter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating! I read it in 3 sittings, I couldn't wait to turn the pages to find out more about living in a Tuscan Village and bringing home their ways of living to be a better hostess when spontaneous guest pop in or planning a family gathering. The phohotography is amazing and makes you feel as if you are right there is Tuscany and an added bonus is a few simple favorite Italian recipes of the author.

[Linda Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading Restored in Tuscany, I couldn’t wait to learn more about the village. The pictures and recipes are great! I love the ways the author encourages a life of hospitality in whatever “village” is ours. Angela has such a sweet, gentle way with words!!

[Leah Baker · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was blessed with the opportunity to ready an advanced copy of Village Life. Angela brings the slower paced Tuscan village way of life to each page of this book. The pictures are simply beautiful, and the recipes are just an added bonus. Now I just have to visit Italy! Bravo, Angela!

[Karen Losson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this beautifully written book it makes me want to go to Tuscany!

[Teresa Starr · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have truly enjoyed reading this book!! It has the most beautiful photos! It also has the most authentic Italian recipes which are EZPZ to make!

[Everafterreads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book! It almost felt like you could see everything in person, walking around and learning about the culture. I can’t wait to try the recipes too! Would definitely recommend!

[Sarndra Upchurch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reading this book makes me want to go to Italy! The pictures are so enticing and Angela has a way of drawing a beautiful picture with her words! Definitely recommend!

[LeaAnn Poynter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating! I read it in 3 sittings, I couldn't wait to turn the pages to find out more about living in a Tuscan Village and bringing home their ways of living to be a better hostess when spontaneous guest pop in or planning a family gathering. The phohotography is amazing and makes you feel as if you are right there is Tuscany and an added bonus is a few simple favorite Italian recipes from the author.

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[Bill McGee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book. To be honest, I’m not a big reader, but this grabbed my attention and I didn’t put it down until I finished it. The pictures are so thought out and everything flows together, from the stories of the people, to the scenery, to the recipes. Angela’s heart is so evident. She could have written a book about herself and all the things she has done/is doing, but no, it’s about the village.
Thank you, Angela

[Lynn Roper · Rating 5 out of 5]

Village Life is more than a lifestyle book—it is an invitation to slow down, savor, and embrace the art of living with purpose. Drawing inspiration from the rolling hills and timeless traditions of Tuscany, Angela Correll transports readers into a world where hospitality is not just about welcoming others, but about cultivating joy, connection, and beauty in everyday moments.

[Shirley Woods · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book. Until I go to Italy again the beautiful places on the pages of the book remind me of my visit. The tips on ways to bring Italy into my home and be ready to entertain guests that drop by is spot on. I can do this.

[Heather Marra · Rating 5 out of 5]

The beauty of Village Life is breathtaking. It is inspirational and practical to impact everyday living. The recipes are incredible.You see it and you'll want to read it, every single page.