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Finding Serenissima
★★★★★ “Seized my heart” Caroline James, author of The Cruise
★★★★★ “Charming” Alka Joshi, author of the NYT bestselling The Henna Artist
★★★★★ “Uplifting” Suzanne Leal, author of The Watchful Wife
With the help of a feisty hotel owner, an attractive water-taxi driver, and a gondola full of Italians who call Venice home, Amelia, a widowed Australian, begins her search for serenity. As the island city works its magic, she comes to realize her life has been overshadowed by her famous American husband, Leo, well before his decline into Alzheimer’s.
As Amelia navigates Venice’s winding canals and its language, she gracefully confronts the joys and challenges of aging, discovering that love and laughter can come at any stage of life. Balancing long-distance parenting and familial obligations, she redefines what it means to live fully as an older woman, all while the magical city slowly helps her reclaim her identity.
Finding Serenissima is a heartwarming tale of second chances, exploring the complexities of long marriage, independence, and rediscovering love in the most unexpected places.
★★★★★ “Charming” Alka Joshi, author of the NYT bestselling The Henna Artist
★★★★★ “Uplifting” Suzanne Leal, author of The Watchful Wife
With the help of a feisty hotel owner, an attractive water-taxi driver, and a gondola full of Italians who call Venice home, Amelia, a widowed Australian, begins her search for serenity. As the island city works its magic, she comes to realize her life has been overshadowed by her famous American husband, Leo, well before his decline into Alzheimer’s.
As Amelia navigates Venice’s winding canals and its language, she gracefully confronts the joys and challenges of aging, discovering that love and laughter can come at any stage of life. Balancing long-distance parenting and familial obligations, she redefines what it means to live fully as an older woman, all while the magical city slowly helps her reclaim her identity.
Finding Serenissima is a heartwarming tale of second chances, exploring the complexities of long marriage, independence, and rediscovering love in the most unexpected places.
324 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 11, 2025
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March 3, 2025
In a Nutshell: A contemporary women’s fiction about second chances in life and love. The Italian setting is great. But the writing style and the character development didn’t work much for me. I think those who enjoy romances based in exotic places might like this better. This is an outlier review.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
I don’t read “destination stories” as they often sound the same: a woman goes to an exotic place after some kind of heartbreak and finds love with a local. As this book had a senior citizen in the lead, I hoped it would be different, telling us the story of a widow trying to overcome grief and to stand on her own after many years of marital togetherness. I was not prepared for so much romance to be present in this plot. So take this review with a pinch of salt because many of the issues I mention below stem from my reading preferences.
My favourite part of the book is the honest depiction of Amelia’s conflicted feelings over Leo. The initial chapter shows her grief, but as the story progresses, we see more details of their marriage, not all of which are savoury. Yet, Amelia constantly talks to Leo in her mind and even wonders at times what he might have done in a particular situation. It is a genuine depiction of how even toxic long-term relationships can be tough to overcome after the partner’s death.
The bond between Amelia and her two daughters Moira and Lucy is depicted well. (A little too well, I must say! There are 176 instances of the word ‘darling’ in the plot, and most of these are used by Amelia while addressing her girls.) However, I never felt like Moira and Lucy behaved their age. They were both independent working women on the other side of thirty-five, but acted like they had just stepped into adulthood.
The setting of Venice is beautifully depicted. The picturesque nature of the location and the bigheartedness of its denizens are incorporated effectively into the plot. On the flip side, there are many scenes where the writing seems to go into “trivia dumping”. While I did like learning so much about Italy, I didn’t feel that the facts sprung up organically from the flow of the plot in most cases. There are also some generalisations about Italians (and of a couple of other nationalities); never a welcome addition.
The plot can be described as a journey of self-discovery. As such, there are plenty of tiny events but no overarching storyline. The story spans multiple years, but the passage of time is mentioned sporadically. Often, the narrative jumps weeks and even months, and we learn how much time has passed only when someone mentions it. The result is that the story feels very rushed, as we are seeing a whole load of events at surface level but not exploring them in detail.
The feeling of shallowness is heightened by the somewhat hazy scene detailing. The writing focusses mainly on “essential events.” That is to say, anything that doesn’t contribute to the core plot is not on the page. Amelia is a photographer, but we hardly ever see her working on her craft. We learn that she goes to a language class only when she mentions her “close friends” from the class in a conversation with someone else. One scene shows the main characters prepping for a big party at their home, but the next scene is directly post-party. Many key scenes that could have added emotional depth to the storyline are kept in the background and mentioned only in passing later in the timeline.
Another reason for the lack of depth is that most of the plot development happens through conversations. (This writing choice never works for me.) Most of the conversations have Amelia as a part of them (which is obvious as we see the story through her POV.) As such, whenever Amelia has only a passive or listening role, the scene is hurried over. But when she has things to say, the conversation lasts longer. There are even scenes where Amelia either talks to herself or talks to Leo in spirit. So what could have been inner monologues or introspection also comes mostly through direct speech. Moreover, the conversations are restricted to a select few characters. Even when three or more people are in the scene, the dialogues focus mainly on what Amelia says and on the person directly responding to her. Adam and Mike, both of whom have fairly important roles in the key characters’ lives, are silent even in scenes where they have an active part to play.
Quite a few dialogues have Italian words, but not to worry on this account: there’s a helpful glossary at the end of the book for all the Italian lingo.
There is a good deal of romance in the story, which I wasn’t prepared for. The romance is mostly closed-door, but the foreplay is explicit in a scene. The three main ladies – Amelia and her daughters – each have relationships and relationship struggles. So there are many scenes focussing on potential and actual partners. This would have been fine had there been a limit on the number of partners. However, almost every (straight) male character is presented as a potential partner for Amelia or her daughters, which gets boring after a while. Also, for some reason, Amelia is considered a great source of relationship advice, so there are scenes where a younger woman or a gay man wants romantic guidance from her. Again, repetitive.
I must also add: in a story that’s supposed to be heartwarming, I did not expect to find a tragic (and I mean, really tragic) plot development. I was totally taken aback by its unexpected appearance. This could be a major trigger for some readers, so check out the content warnings list below the review.
All in all, while the plot has some lovely Italian imagery and a good depiction of how one can have a fresh start at any point in life, the speech-intense writing style and some of the plot choices didn’t work for me. I was looking for an older woman’s independent journey of self-fulfilment, which does happen. But I didn’t expect a part of the fulfilment to come through a new relationship. All this meant that I was mostly disconnected from this conversation-driven story. The other ratings clearly prove that I am very much an outlier in my opinion, so please go through other reviews before you take a call on this book.
A shout-out to that stunning cover full of 'serenissima'.
Recommended to those who enjoy destination romances, second-chance romances, and older-character romances. Do check the triggers list first.
2.5 stars. (Rounding up wherever applicable as most of my issues are due to the incongruence with my reading preferences.)
My thanks to author Apple Gidley for providing the DRC of “Finding Serenissima” via BookSirens. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
Content warnings: MAJOR SPOILERS BELOW.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Threads || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Plot Preview:
When Leo, Amelia’s husband of forty-two years passes away after a long struggle with Alzheimer’s, Amelia wants a change from their island home in Patanga. She decides to move to Italy for a fresh start in life and to find ‘serenissima’ – serenity.
In Venice, she finds herself pondering over her past and her life with Leo, while still discovering new joys and challenges. Can she rediscover herself at her age, or is it too late?
The story comes to us in Amelia’s third-person perspective.
I don’t read “destination stories” as they often sound the same: a woman goes to an exotic place after some kind of heartbreak and finds love with a local. As this book had a senior citizen in the lead, I hoped it would be different, telling us the story of a widow trying to overcome grief and to stand on her own after many years of marital togetherness. I was not prepared for so much romance to be present in this plot. So take this review with a pinch of salt because many of the issues I mention below stem from my reading preferences.
My favourite part of the book is the honest depiction of Amelia’s conflicted feelings over Leo. The initial chapter shows her grief, but as the story progresses, we see more details of their marriage, not all of which are savoury. Yet, Amelia constantly talks to Leo in her mind and even wonders at times what he might have done in a particular situation. It is a genuine depiction of how even toxic long-term relationships can be tough to overcome after the partner’s death.
The bond between Amelia and her two daughters Moira and Lucy is depicted well. (A little too well, I must say! There are 176 instances of the word ‘darling’ in the plot, and most of these are used by Amelia while addressing her girls.) However, I never felt like Moira and Lucy behaved their age. They were both independent working women on the other side of thirty-five, but acted like they had just stepped into adulthood.
The setting of Venice is beautifully depicted. The picturesque nature of the location and the bigheartedness of its denizens are incorporated effectively into the plot. On the flip side, there are many scenes where the writing seems to go into “trivia dumping”. While I did like learning so much about Italy, I didn’t feel that the facts sprung up organically from the flow of the plot in most cases. There are also some generalisations about Italians (and of a couple of other nationalities); never a welcome addition.
The plot can be described as a journey of self-discovery. As such, there are plenty of tiny events but no overarching storyline. The story spans multiple years, but the passage of time is mentioned sporadically. Often, the narrative jumps weeks and even months, and we learn how much time has passed only when someone mentions it. The result is that the story feels very rushed, as we are seeing a whole load of events at surface level but not exploring them in detail.
The feeling of shallowness is heightened by the somewhat hazy scene detailing. The writing focusses mainly on “essential events.” That is to say, anything that doesn’t contribute to the core plot is not on the page. Amelia is a photographer, but we hardly ever see her working on her craft. We learn that she goes to a language class only when she mentions her “close friends” from the class in a conversation with someone else. One scene shows the main characters prepping for a big party at their home, but the next scene is directly post-party. Many key scenes that could have added emotional depth to the storyline are kept in the background and mentioned only in passing later in the timeline.
Another reason for the lack of depth is that most of the plot development happens through conversations. (This writing choice never works for me.) Most of the conversations have Amelia as a part of them (which is obvious as we see the story through her POV.) As such, whenever Amelia has only a passive or listening role, the scene is hurried over. But when she has things to say, the conversation lasts longer. There are even scenes where Amelia either talks to herself or talks to Leo in spirit. So what could have been inner monologues or introspection also comes mostly through direct speech. Moreover, the conversations are restricted to a select few characters. Even when three or more people are in the scene, the dialogues focus mainly on what Amelia says and on the person directly responding to her. Adam and Mike, both of whom have fairly important roles in the key characters’ lives, are silent even in scenes where they have an active part to play.
Quite a few dialogues have Italian words, but not to worry on this account: there’s a helpful glossary at the end of the book for all the Italian lingo.
There is a good deal of romance in the story, which I wasn’t prepared for. The romance is mostly closed-door, but the foreplay is explicit in a scene. The three main ladies – Amelia and her daughters – each have relationships and relationship struggles. So there are many scenes focussing on potential and actual partners. This would have been fine had there been a limit on the number of partners. However, almost every (straight) male character is presented as a potential partner for Amelia or her daughters, which gets boring after a while. Also, for some reason, Amelia is considered a great source of relationship advice, so there are scenes where a younger woman or a gay man wants romantic guidance from her. Again, repetitive.
I must also add: in a story that’s supposed to be heartwarming, I did not expect to find a tragic (and I mean, really tragic) plot development. I was totally taken aback by its unexpected appearance. This could be a major trigger for some readers, so check out the content warnings list below the review.
All in all, while the plot has some lovely Italian imagery and a good depiction of how one can have a fresh start at any point in life, the speech-intense writing style and some of the plot choices didn’t work for me. I was looking for an older woman’s independent journey of self-fulfilment, which does happen. But I didn’t expect a part of the fulfilment to come through a new relationship. All this meant that I was mostly disconnected from this conversation-driven story. The other ratings clearly prove that I am very much an outlier in my opinion, so please go through other reviews before you take a call on this book.
A shout-out to that stunning cover full of 'serenissima'.
Recommended to those who enjoy destination romances, second-chance romances, and older-character romances. Do check the triggers list first.
2.5 stars. (Rounding up wherever applicable as most of my issues are due to the incongruence with my reading preferences.)
My thanks to author Apple Gidley for providing the DRC of “Finding Serenissima” via BookSirens. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
Content warnings: MAJOR SPOILERS BELOW.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Connect with me through:
My Blog || The StoryGraph || Instagram || Threads || X/Twitter || Facebook ||
December 31, 2024
“Finding Serenissima” couldn’t possibly be a more delightful read. Set mostly in Venice, Italy, it’s like a leisurely gondola ride through the most charming part of the city. One can hear the voices and savor the flavors and aromas. From page one it captivates. Amelia has spent the last several years residing in the South Pacific with her terminally ill husband. When he passes on, in a spirited and confident leap, she picks up and moves lock, stock and barrel to Venice. And thus begins the saga of a strong and resilient woman’s journey through what is initially an unknown part of the world. Amelia has two grown daughters living thousands of miles off, but her support mostly comes from an eclectic collection of Italian neighbors. Though set in one of the most touristy cities in the world, Gidley paints a sweeping portrait of the city never experienced by the casual traveler. As expected, life deals Amelia a series of ups and downs, but her true grit makes her a most engaging and endearing character. Smiles and tears come with the territory, but “Finding Serenissima” is a marvelous and gratifying way to spend a few days smelling the Venetian flowers.
February 10, 2025
Amelia Paignton, a recently widowed Australian, escapes to Venice. She might have intended a short stay, but the city captures her and she ends up buying an apartment and renovating it. This is an affectionate and well-informed portrait of Venice, as vivid a character as any in the book, by someone who evidently knows it well. In some respects the novel reads a bit like a travelogue, and but for the third person, it could almost be a memoir.
There is no harm in Amelia. She’s gracious, kind to animals and young people, and has good taste. She makes the effort to learn Italian. However I found it difficult to warm to her, mainly I think because she has been left affluent enough to not have to work, whilst others around her have to earn a living, and so she drifts through Venice like someone on an extended vacation, seeing the sights, eating local delicacies, taking trips to Florence or to vineyards, and hosting her daughters and their partners. When needed she can drop everything and fly to New York (and has to, due to a family tragedy). Arguably, she’s paid her dues, given her husband’s remorseless decline with Alzheimer's and then cancer, along with the tantalising glimpses of a marriage that was not as ideal as it probably looked to others. I just wished the character had been given a bit of a purpose in life; it turns out that she is a photographer, but we barely hear about her photographing anything, though she is preparing a volume of photographs she took back when she lived in Papua New Guinea. Didn’t she find anything worth photographing in all that time in Venice?
I really wish someone had checked the Italian properly, particularly the use of the familiar ‘tu’ form and the overuse of the exclamation ‘uffa.’ A waiter in Harry’s Bar would not dream of using ‘tu’ with a middle-aged lady he’d never met before: it would have been more than his job was worth.
This novel is escapism, but the overall effect is a bit like eating an entire box of chocolates at one sitting – fun while you’re doing it, but feeling afterwards that you’ve overdone the richness.
There is no harm in Amelia. She’s gracious, kind to animals and young people, and has good taste. She makes the effort to learn Italian. However I found it difficult to warm to her, mainly I think because she has been left affluent enough to not have to work, whilst others around her have to earn a living, and so she drifts through Venice like someone on an extended vacation, seeing the sights, eating local delicacies, taking trips to Florence or to vineyards, and hosting her daughters and their partners. When needed she can drop everything and fly to New York (and has to, due to a family tragedy). Arguably, she’s paid her dues, given her husband’s remorseless decline with Alzheimer's and then cancer, along with the tantalising glimpses of a marriage that was not as ideal as it probably looked to others. I just wished the character had been given a bit of a purpose in life; it turns out that she is a photographer, but we barely hear about her photographing anything, though she is preparing a volume of photographs she took back when she lived in Papua New Guinea. Didn’t she find anything worth photographing in all that time in Venice?
I really wish someone had checked the Italian properly, particularly the use of the familiar ‘tu’ form and the overuse of the exclamation ‘uffa.’ A waiter in Harry’s Bar would not dream of using ‘tu’ with a middle-aged lady he’d never met before: it would have been more than his job was worth.
This novel is escapism, but the overall effect is a bit like eating an entire box of chocolates at one sitting – fun while you’re doing it, but feeling afterwards that you’ve overdone the richness.
March 12, 2025
Gorgeous, beguiling, enchanting, heartwarming, enthralling! There are not enough synonyms to begin to describe, Finding Serenissima.
You may have gathered, from the first sentence, that I absolutely adored this book! My favourite trope is 'new life' when a character leaves their old life behind and starts over somewhere new. My imagination always goes with them, and this is exactly what happened as I was reading Apple's new book.
Apple hauled me from my chair on the east coast of the UK, right into the pages, into Amelia's life and into the winding canals of Venice. I felt every breeze, I smelt every coffee, and I relished every meal that was made. I was right there as, for the first time, Amelia experiences the delights of Venice, the quirky buildings, and some eccentric characters, as she navigates her way through her exciting and sometimes scary new life, budding friendships and the possibilities of love.
Finding Serenissima delves into a couple of difficult topics, specifically Alzheimer's and the death of a baby. Apple deals with these with compassion and empathy, and they are woven into the story in a delicate manner.
I've never been to Venice, but I've always wanted to visit, maybe in the spring though before the heat becomes too oppressive and the waters too pungent!
Thank you to Apple Gidley for reaching out and asking me to read and review Finding Serenissima.
You may have gathered, from the first sentence, that I absolutely adored this book! My favourite trope is 'new life' when a character leaves their old life behind and starts over somewhere new. My imagination always goes with them, and this is exactly what happened as I was reading Apple's new book.
Apple hauled me from my chair on the east coast of the UK, right into the pages, into Amelia's life and into the winding canals of Venice. I felt every breeze, I smelt every coffee, and I relished every meal that was made. I was right there as, for the first time, Amelia experiences the delights of Venice, the quirky buildings, and some eccentric characters, as she navigates her way through her exciting and sometimes scary new life, budding friendships and the possibilities of love.
Finding Serenissima delves into a couple of difficult topics, specifically Alzheimer's and the death of a baby. Apple deals with these with compassion and empathy, and they are woven into the story in a delicate manner.
I've never been to Venice, but I've always wanted to visit, maybe in the spring though before the heat becomes too oppressive and the waters too pungent!
Thank you to Apple Gidley for reaching out and asking me to read and review Finding Serenissima.
March 27, 2025
As the blurb says this is a story of second chances, and rediscovering love in the most unexpected places. And that is true for most of the characters in this story set in Venice and its beautiful surrounding countryside.
It is also not just about romantic relationships with others, but the falling in love with an ancient city, its canals and lanes filled with old houses, intriguing shops and markets, and most of all the people who welcome Amelia with open arms on her arrival.
For anyone who has been in a relationship for decades, there is an understanding that the perfect marriage rarely exists. There are however partnerships that survive life’s obstacles, sometimes sorrow and changes in the dynamics of the relationship because of the deep love and bond they have for each other. The author appreciates the beauty and also the less welcome sides to this, as we discover the back story of Amelia’s marriage to Leo, and how when one partner is more of a focus, it is easy to lose a sense of yourself.
We join Amelia as she bravely, and with her two daughter’s misgivings, sells up the family home and heads off to Venice with a dream in mind, but not necessarily a plan. However, she is determined after over 40 years to finally find her path in life and to experience as much as possible.
This is made much easier by the warmth of new friends, a safe haven, a new feline companion and an introduction to the Italian charm of the men who enter her lives. Some more welcome than others.
This not a light hearted romance story, at times it is tragic and tears are likely. It does however emphasise the strength of family at such times, and how love and time are so important.
The author has done a brilliant job of bringing complex relationships, a stunning setting, great characters, and an infusion of romance together to create a wonderful read.
I have no hesitation in recommending the book to lovers of well written family dramas, romance and who like to visit exotic locations from the comfort of their armchair.
It is also not just about romantic relationships with others, but the falling in love with an ancient city, its canals and lanes filled with old houses, intriguing shops and markets, and most of all the people who welcome Amelia with open arms on her arrival.
For anyone who has been in a relationship for decades, there is an understanding that the perfect marriage rarely exists. There are however partnerships that survive life’s obstacles, sometimes sorrow and changes in the dynamics of the relationship because of the deep love and bond they have for each other. The author appreciates the beauty and also the less welcome sides to this, as we discover the back story of Amelia’s marriage to Leo, and how when one partner is more of a focus, it is easy to lose a sense of yourself.
We join Amelia as she bravely, and with her two daughter’s misgivings, sells up the family home and heads off to Venice with a dream in mind, but not necessarily a plan. However, she is determined after over 40 years to finally find her path in life and to experience as much as possible.
This is made much easier by the warmth of new friends, a safe haven, a new feline companion and an introduction to the Italian charm of the men who enter her lives. Some more welcome than others.
This not a light hearted romance story, at times it is tragic and tears are likely. It does however emphasise the strength of family at such times, and how love and time are so important.
The author has done a brilliant job of bringing complex relationships, a stunning setting, great characters, and an infusion of romance together to create a wonderful read.
I have no hesitation in recommending the book to lovers of well written family dramas, romance and who like to visit exotic locations from the comfort of their armchair.
January 12, 2025
It's hard not to want to be Australian Amelia Paignton. For many of us, taking the bold step of moving to a country we have never visited before as a single woman in later life would be way out of our comfort zone. This glorious novel lets us do just that vicariously – while sipping Prosecco and sitting in the early evening sun with our bare feet on the balcony rail of a Venetian apartment. This is a feel good read that oozes everything that epitomises Venice. Sparkling with captivating dialogue peppered with Italian and fascinating characters the story zips along like a ride on a vaporetto. The character of Amelia is so strong that I felt I knew her and wanted her to be my friend. I also wanted her wardrobe and sense of style. What's more, I learned stuff too – about Italian wines, art and 'la dolce vita'. even picked up some Italian phrases.
Life for Amelia is not without its knockbacks, her two grown daughters live on different continents and she soon learns that the buck stops with her. Alone but not lonely, she must forge her own path.
This is a book filled with sunshine – and we all need some sun in our lives.
Life for Amelia is not without its knockbacks, her two grown daughters live on different continents and she soon learns that the buck stops with her. Alone but not lonely, she must forge her own path.
This is a book filled with sunshine – and we all need some sun in our lives.
January 20, 2025
In 'Finding Serenissima', the author, Apple Gidley, creates a fabulously crafted story of a family's love and loss: written with tenderness and humour in equal measure. The intimate knowledge of geography, culture and language which informs Apple's writing, transports the reader - almost literally - to Italy, and, in passing, to New Guinea, Sydney and New York. The finely wrought mechanics of the writing are massaged from the reader's consciousness by the fluidity of the dialogue. Enchanting and engaging throughout.
March 26, 2025
A delightful romp through Italy with lots of wine, coffee, good food, and love, of course.
December 28, 2025
“As the service drew to a close and the blessing given, the vaulted ceilings lit up in a shimmering cascade of glorious color, a tribute to God, the saints, the angels, Amelia didn’t know who, didn’t care.” The novel, Finding Serenissima, by Apple Gidley delves into renewed life after its perceived ending. After years of caring for her husband through Alzheimer’s until his recent death, despite underlying marital troubles and infidelity, the central character, Amelia, makes a sudden move to Venice from her Australian home that puzzles those closest to her, most prominently depicted by the interactions with her children. As she attempts to maneuver through a life that is not devoted to another, she discovers many facets of internal strength buried beneath the needs and wants of others. Finding Serenissima explores Amelia’s search for independence while still exhibiting her ability to support through her new and exciting experiences. Recommended read.
I was sent this book for free and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
I was sent this book for free and am voluntarily leaving this honest review.
March 3, 2025
Family drama women's fiction in Bella Italia☕🍾🍷
A women restarting life in her sixties after years nursing her husband and choosing Venice as her new home? It had all the elements for a great story, especially with the inclusion of two adult daughters, NYC art auctioneer Moira and Sydney-based graphic artist Lucy, and the friends Amelia makes as she settles in to her Venice apartment. The descriptions of Italy made me want to pack my bag and join her! And there's plenty of "finding herself" drama and romance to go around for Amelia and her daughters.
For some reason I just found it difficult to connect with this family. Amelia's main purpose seems to be fixing up her apartment and lounging about at home or in cafes with some vino and a friend or two. I'm not saying she didn't deserve to relax into la dolce vita, just that it didn't keep me hooked. She and her daughters fly back and forth between NYC, Italy and Australia at the drop of a hat and finances are never even an issue. It was not a lifestyle I understand. I also found Amelia's outburst near the book's end when her romantic partner starts questioning her about her previous love life weirdly and abruptly resolved: just felt it was missing something, like part of the scene had been cut and what remained left me unsatisfied with Amelia's response.
Despite their affluent life, these three women are not immune from hardship and one of the most touching threads in the plot involves Moira's baby girl Natalie. That was really well done.
A good story that struck me as a bit slow and lingering at places. Still, a good read, particularly for the armchair traveler with Italy in their sights.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
A women restarting life in her sixties after years nursing her husband and choosing Venice as her new home? It had all the elements for a great story, especially with the inclusion of two adult daughters, NYC art auctioneer Moira and Sydney-based graphic artist Lucy, and the friends Amelia makes as she settles in to her Venice apartment. The descriptions of Italy made me want to pack my bag and join her! And there's plenty of "finding herself" drama and romance to go around for Amelia and her daughters.
For some reason I just found it difficult to connect with this family. Amelia's main purpose seems to be fixing up her apartment and lounging about at home or in cafes with some vino and a friend or two. I'm not saying she didn't deserve to relax into la dolce vita, just that it didn't keep me hooked. She and her daughters fly back and forth between NYC, Italy and Australia at the drop of a hat and finances are never even an issue. It was not a lifestyle I understand. I also found Amelia's outburst near the book's end when her romantic partner starts questioning her about her previous love life weirdly and abruptly resolved: just felt it was missing something, like part of the scene had been cut and what remained left me unsatisfied with Amelia's response.
Despite their affluent life, these three women are not immune from hardship and one of the most touching threads in the plot involves Moira's baby girl Natalie. That was really well done.
A good story that struck me as a bit slow and lingering at places. Still, a good read, particularly for the armchair traveler with Italy in their sights.
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
February 8, 2025
The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
EDITORIAL REVIEW
7th February 2025
TITLE: Finding Serenissima
AUTHOR: Apple Gidley
Star Rating: 5
‘A delightfully written story of a woman finding herself in the gondola-filled canals of Venice. Highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
I must say, I thoroughly enjoyed this drama-filled novel from the pen of talented author, Apple Gidley. Well written and filled with fully formed and often charasmatic characters, it is the story of Amelia who, having lost her husband to Alzheimer’s, finds herself in Venice, Italy. What follows is a culture-based, character-led story, as the woman attempts to not only understand the city, but also herself, where she is in life, and what she wants.
There were a number of aspects to this story I particularly enjoyed. Firstly, I simply loved the MC. She’s sort of worldy-wise, but not in a ‘tired’ sort of way; in fact, she’s almost hungry for her next adventure. And for all her ‘baggage’, she’s still the sort of woman I enjoy rooting for. Secondly, Venice – a city I know well – is vividly described by the author; so much so, it’s almost a character in the book. And thirdly, I liked the unpredictability of the plot. In fact, I never knew what was going to happen next. Even the ending was a bit of a surprise!
So, if you happen to be on the hunt for a smartly plotted drama filled with deep, often complex characters, and a vibrant romantic setting, this novel is for you. I suspect most readers will enjoy getting to know Amelia and they will be rooting for her to find the life she wants. All in all, a bit of a gem!
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
EDITORIAL REVIEW
7th February 2025
TITLE: Finding Serenissima
AUTHOR: Apple Gidley
Star Rating: 5
‘A delightfully written story of a woman finding herself in the gondola-filled canals of Venice. Highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
I must say, I thoroughly enjoyed this drama-filled novel from the pen of talented author, Apple Gidley. Well written and filled with fully formed and often charasmatic characters, it is the story of Amelia who, having lost her husband to Alzheimer’s, finds herself in Venice, Italy. What follows is a culture-based, character-led story, as the woman attempts to not only understand the city, but also herself, where she is in life, and what she wants.
There were a number of aspects to this story I particularly enjoyed. Firstly, I simply loved the MC. She’s sort of worldy-wise, but not in a ‘tired’ sort of way; in fact, she’s almost hungry for her next adventure. And for all her ‘baggage’, she’s still the sort of woman I enjoy rooting for. Secondly, Venice – a city I know well – is vividly described by the author; so much so, it’s almost a character in the book. And thirdly, I liked the unpredictability of the plot. In fact, I never knew what was going to happen next. Even the ending was a bit of a surprise!
So, if you happen to be on the hunt for a smartly plotted drama filled with deep, often complex characters, and a vibrant romantic setting, this novel is for you. I suspect most readers will enjoy getting to know Amelia and they will be rooting for her to find the life she wants. All in all, a bit of a gem!
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
February 12, 2025
Finding Serenissima follows Amelia, a widowed Aussie, as she finds herself in beautiful Venice. Amelia rediscovers herself with help from a hotel owner, a water-taxi driver, and some friendly Venetians.
This novel’s central theme is a touching examination of love, loss, and renewal. Relatable and inspiring, Amelia’s story shows how she handles aging, past relationships, and family duties. The novel’s beautiful prose captures Venice’s essence—romance, mystery, transformation—and mirrors Amelia’s personal evolution.
I really loved the characters in this book. The Venetian people who receive Amelia into their lives add depth and charm, acting as guides through the city’s canals and her emotional growth. This novel expertly portrays the life-giving power of new relationships and experiences in unexpected areas of life.
A further strength of the novel is its unique presentation of long marriages and their challenges. Amelia’s introspective reflections on Leo, her late husband, and how his fame affected her identity, create a deeply moving and thought-provoking read. This journey is about more than loss or progress; it’s about claiming her autonomy.
Beautifully written and heartwarming, Finding Serenissima explores resilience, second chances, and enduring love, resonating with readers of all ages, particularly those appreciating self-discovery and reinvention later in life. This Venetian tale is perfect for anyone who likes beautiful settings, strong heroines, and stories full of feeling.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This novel’s central theme is a touching examination of love, loss, and renewal. Relatable and inspiring, Amelia’s story shows how she handles aging, past relationships, and family duties. The novel’s beautiful prose captures Venice’s essence—romance, mystery, transformation—and mirrors Amelia’s personal evolution.
I really loved the characters in this book. The Venetian people who receive Amelia into their lives add depth and charm, acting as guides through the city’s canals and her emotional growth. This novel expertly portrays the life-giving power of new relationships and experiences in unexpected areas of life.
A further strength of the novel is its unique presentation of long marriages and their challenges. Amelia’s introspective reflections on Leo, her late husband, and how his fame affected her identity, create a deeply moving and thought-provoking read. This journey is about more than loss or progress; it’s about claiming her autonomy.
Beautifully written and heartwarming, Finding Serenissima explores resilience, second chances, and enduring love, resonating with readers of all ages, particularly those appreciating self-discovery and reinvention later in life. This Venetian tale is perfect for anyone who likes beautiful settings, strong heroines, and stories full of feeling.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 25, 2025
After Amelia's husband Leo died, Amelia needed to recalibrate. She was no stranger to living in different countries and cultures and chose Venice, Italy, for her la bella vita. In no time she discovered new freedoms and dreams in the slower relaxed pace, wonderful food, mild climate and fascinating culture. Her two adult daughters visited her from time to time. Life was good. Then tragedy struck and lives had to be rebuilt. Sorrow is powerful and all consuming and captured very well in this story. Watching the characters evolve and grow was a beautiful thing. Though parts are realistically sad, there is also hope.
As an adventurous woman, I have moved continents with my husband to live on the Mediterranean near Italy (and know Venice well) and understand bureaucracy, residency challenges, constant learning curves, fierce bura wind, and have experienced many of the same feelings and joys Amelia did. And then some! So much effort and sacrifice but oh, so worth it! On a personal level, this book tugged at my heart… hard… and didn't let go.
The author's vivid writing took me to La Serenissima in less than a second. Close mother/daughter relationships in books are emotive and lovely. The warmth emanating from those in this story touched my heart. Romantic relationships blossom. This book was the perfect spring read, full of new beginnings and fresh awakenings.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
As an adventurous woman, I have moved continents with my husband to live on the Mediterranean near Italy (and know Venice well) and understand bureaucracy, residency challenges, constant learning curves, fierce bura wind, and have experienced many of the same feelings and joys Amelia did. And then some! So much effort and sacrifice but oh, so worth it! On a personal level, this book tugged at my heart… hard… and didn't let go.
The author's vivid writing took me to La Serenissima in less than a second. Close mother/daughter relationships in books are emotive and lovely. The warmth emanating from those in this story touched my heart. Romantic relationships blossom. This book was the perfect spring read, full of new beginnings and fresh awakenings.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
February 6, 2025
Amelia Paignton was a wife, mother, and caretaker. Her husband Leo dies of Alzheimer's and her life changes. She has been isolated with Leo on the island of Papua New Guinea. Without Leo to care for and both daughters settled in their own lives what comes next? Amelia decides to move to Venice. As she settles into her new home and life, she learns the language and customs of the Venetians. She learns that grief is not a linear process. Little by little, the charm of Venice will heal her.
Apple Gidley has written a love letter to Italy. Each scene is described beautifully, making it easy to visualize Venice. All characters are well thought out and realistic. Following Amelia's adventures not only makes me want to visit but also makes me wish Amelia were my friend. Dealing with death brings a depth of feeling that Apple Gidley understands. Amelia's journey is emotional, heartfelt, and deeply moving. As someone who has suffered a year of loss, this book helped me confront emotions and heal. As Amelia's story ends, we are filled with contentment and hope.
I would like to thank the author Apple Gidley for the advanced reader copy of this book. I look forward to reading your next book - I'm sure it will be wonderful!
Apple Gidley has written a love letter to Italy. Each scene is described beautifully, making it easy to visualize Venice. All characters are well thought out and realistic. Following Amelia's adventures not only makes me want to visit but also makes me wish Amelia were my friend. Dealing with death brings a depth of feeling that Apple Gidley understands. Amelia's journey is emotional, heartfelt, and deeply moving. As someone who has suffered a year of loss, this book helped me confront emotions and heal. As Amelia's story ends, we are filled with contentment and hope.
I would like to thank the author Apple Gidley for the advanced reader copy of this book. I look forward to reading your next book - I'm sure it will be wonderful!
December 8, 2024
A Captivating Novel – five big fat stars from me (ten if I could!)
Finding Serenissima by Apple Gidley is a literary gem that immediately seized my heart. It’s a beautifully woven tale, brimming with warmth, compassion, and humour, making it utterly unputdownable. This book is a must-read. After visiting Venice, I feel an irresistible pull to return and see the city through the author’s eyes. The portrayal of Venice is so vivid that it feels like you’re walking alongside the characters through its streets. The other Italian settings are equally captivating. The characters, especially Amelia, are expertly crafted, and her experiences after the death of her husband are both heartrending and full of unexpected turns. I laughed, cried, and rooted for this extraordinary woman as she courageously embarked on a new chapter in her life.
Apple Gidley, your talent as a writer is genuinely exceptional. Finding Serenissima is a testament to your skill, and I eagerly await your future stories. Thank you for the privilege of reading this outstanding book.
January 26, 2025
Amelia is recently windowed after years of tending to her successful Artist husband who had Alzheimer's. Having lived in many countries and her daughters thousands of miles away Amelia moves to Venice, Italy. She is the epitome of "blooming where one is planted" by immersing herself in Italian language, culture, making friends and learning all she can about her new home.
I love the way author Apple Gidley writes, her beautiful descriptive prose and sense of place. This book draws the reader into the story by letting you experience what the main character Amelia sees, feels, hears, and tastes. The settings were so beautifully painted they placed me back in Florence, the little wineries I visited in Italy, New York City, and life on an island.
This story is a of Amelia, her family and friends finding second chances through loss, friendship, and passion later in life. This is a story full of optimism, joy, sorrow and humor.
I received an advance copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I love the way author Apple Gidley writes, her beautiful descriptive prose and sense of place. This book draws the reader into the story by letting you experience what the main character Amelia sees, feels, hears, and tastes. The settings were so beautifully painted they placed me back in Florence, the little wineries I visited in Italy, New York City, and life on an island.
This story is a of Amelia, her family and friends finding second chances through loss, friendship, and passion later in life. This is a story full of optimism, joy, sorrow and humor.
I received an advance copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 8, 2026
Finding Serenissima is one of those rare books that gets quietly under your skin — not in a loud, attention-seeking way, but in a way that keeps unfolding long after you’ve finished reading. The story lingers, returning in small, unexpected moments, inviting reflection rather than demanding it.
The character development is absolutely fabulous. Each character feels fully alive, layered, and deeply human — flawed, tender, and memorable. I found myself loving all of them, even when they challenged me.
This is a novel that stays with you, asking gentle questions about movement, belonging, and home — and trusting the reader enough to sit with the answers in their own time.
The character development is absolutely fabulous. Each character feels fully alive, layered, and deeply human — flawed, tender, and memorable. I found myself loving all of them, even when they challenged me.
This is a novel that stays with you, asking gentle questions about movement, belonging, and home — and trusting the reader enough to sit with the answers in their own time.
January 6, 2025
I have never visited Venice, but after reading this cleverly written novel, with its brilliant descriptions delighting all of the senses, I feel as though I have. The characters are rich and complex, demonstrating genuine emotions from kindness and affection to deceit and devotion. Plot twists and surprises keep the reader thoroughly engaged and sorry to have it end.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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