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A Venice Summer: a sunlit summer romance
Art conservator Rose Bennet is still reeling from a bad break-up when she is offered a dream job in Venice, restoring an art collection in the Ca’ D’Ambra, a five-hundred-year-old Venetian palazzo. Despite her fears about travelling to a foreign country on her own, Rose is soon heading to Italy for the summer.
While she is awestruck by the breathtaking beauty of Venice, Rose finds the owner of the palazzo, the arrogant and short-tempered Luca Casserini, insufferable. When he questions her ability to do her work, she almost heads straight back to London, but decides that she won’t let herself be intimidated or driven away before she’s even had a chance to ride in a gondola.
Losing her way in Venice’s picturesque maze of canals and alleyways, the last person Rose wants to see is Luca, but when they meet by chance and, to her surprise, he offers to show her around the city, she feels it would be churlish to refuse.
Spending sunlit summer days exploring Venice with Luca, Rose discovers a passionate side to him very different to her first impression, and her feelings towards him begin to change …
Rose knows she can restore a damaged painting, but can she mend Luca’s damaged heart?
While she is awestruck by the breathtaking beauty of Venice, Rose finds the owner of the palazzo, the arrogant and short-tempered Luca Casserini, insufferable. When he questions her ability to do her work, she almost heads straight back to London, but decides that she won’t let herself be intimidated or driven away before she’s even had a chance to ride in a gondola.
Losing her way in Venice’s picturesque maze of canals and alleyways, the last person Rose wants to see is Luca, but when they meet by chance and, to her surprise, he offers to show her around the city, she feels it would be churlish to refuse.
Spending sunlit summer days exploring Venice with Luca, Rose discovers a passionate side to him very different to her first impression, and her feelings towards him begin to change …
Rose knows she can restore a damaged painting, but can she mend Luca’s damaged heart?
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 12, 2026
About the author
Lynne Shelby
9 books19 followersLynne Shelby writes contemporary women’s fiction/romance.
Her debut novel, ‘French Kissing,’ now re-released in e-book as 'Meet Me In Paris' won the Accent Press and Woman magazine Writing Competition. Her fifth novel, Love On Location, was shortlisted for a Romantic Novelists' Association Award.
When not writing or reading, Lynne can usually be found at the theatre or exploring a foreign city - Paris, New York, Rome, Copenhagen, Seattle, Reykjavik - writer's notebook, camera and sketchbook in hand. She lives in London with her husband, and has three adult children who live nearby.
Her debut novel, ‘French Kissing,’ now re-released in e-book as 'Meet Me In Paris' won the Accent Press and Woman magazine Writing Competition. Her fifth novel, Love On Location, was shortlisted for a Romantic Novelists' Association Award.
When not writing or reading, Lynne can usually be found at the theatre or exploring a foreign city - Paris, New York, Rome, Copenhagen, Seattle, Reykjavik - writer's notebook, camera and sketchbook in hand. She lives in London with her husband, and has three adult children who live nearby.
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
May 20, 2026
What a beautiful, heartwarming story this is, and in a fabulous romantic location. Venice, the magical, medieval city that has charmed, fascinated and ensnared its visitors for centuries. It is a great start, as from the first chapter, Rose, an art conservator, arrives to take up her new position in the Ca’ d’Ambra (The Amber House) to restore some Renaissance paintings. The narrative is set because she is running away from a broken relationship, which is a powerful catalyst for change. We see her vulnerability immediately.
‘She was alone in a fifteenth-century palazzo in a foreign city where she had no friends and didn’t speak the language. She’d spent the day longing for her journey to be over, eager to begin this new chapter of her life, but now she experienced the overwhelming yearning to be back home in London. In the next instant, it came to her as forcibly as a punch that she had no home to go back to and no boyfriend who wanted her back.’
She is forcing herself into an active journey of self-discovery and the rebuilding of her personal identity.
The first glimpse of Venice is most spectacular when arriving by water, which the reader sees through Rose’s eyes. This is wonderfully descriptive and perfectly captures the city’s magic. Rose and the reader are bewitched.
‘The vaporetto left the dock, sailing along the waterfront before entering a broad canal lined with grand palazzi, their ornate facades built right on the water. They were so exquisitely beautiful in different shades of terracotta, yellow ochre, pink and russet that Rose gasped at the sight.’
Her assignment sounds like a dream yet daunting. Her new employer is the enigmatic and aloof Luca Casserini, whose family have owned the Venetian Palazzo for six hundred years. He is a handsome guitar-playing, masculine Italian with striking Mediterranean features. He is hot!
Sergio, the head of the restoration team, gives Rose the task of restoring a painting of a young woman seated by a window wearing a blue gown. There is no signature on the painting, and no one knows who the young woman is, but documents from 1536 suggest that it could have been painted by an apprentice of Nicolo Zano.
‘Who was she? This unknown young woman who, five centuries ago, had her portrait painted by an unknown artist. Had she lived in the Ca ’d’Ambra? Was she an ancestor of the palazzo’s present owner?’
Intriguing questions indeed! Rose turns art detective.
What I loved about the story is the dual timeline, which is now introduced as a brilliant narrative technique that weaves together two distinct storylines, one in the present and one in 1536. This is a great way to connect past events to the mystery of the young woman in the painting. Cleverly, the author changes the pace, the vocabulary, the dialogue and the tense to set the historical context of the sixteenth century with authenticity. We are transported back in time to a day in the life of a girl called Marietta.
‘I am in my bedchamber, sitting by the window, drying and bleaching my hair in a pool of sunlight while reading a book of love poetry, when a servant brings word that I am summoned to the portego by my father Pietro Casserini, who is not to be kept waiting.’
As Rose cleans and restores more of the painting to reveal the sitter, the reader uncovers more about not only the life of the mystery woman but also life in Venice in this period, at the height of its Renaissance glory. It was a golden age for art and music. The book is a real insight into the life of a Venetian girl in 16th-century Venice, which was shaped by the city’s unique maritime economy, its patriarchal culture, and the strict divides of social class. As the daughter of a Doge or Duke, Marietta enjoyed a life of refined privilege, but it often meant living in seclusion and accepting an arranged marriage. The reader catches a glimpse into a world of luxury, shaped by traditions and expectations!
An attraction between two people needs to feel convincing and compelling, and the author definitely creates characters with their own flaws and quirks. There is clearly a natural chemistry between Rose and Luca, but they don’t get off to the best of starts. For me, there is a touch of ‘Mr Darcy’ about Luca. Epitomised with wealth and social standing, he shows a similar arrogance when we first meet him. As Pride and Prejudice is one of my favourite books of all time, I adore the idea of a quintessential romantic hero in a story who is who is a bit brooding and emotionally restrained. Luca requests that she join him in the portego (central connecting hall of the Venetian palace) where he makes it clear what is expected of her.
‘You have Dario to thank for getting you this job, but you will have to prove to me you are capable of doing it as well as he would have done, if you expect to keep it. I have high standards for everyone employed on the Ca’ d’Ambra’s restoration. You must not presume that our mutual friendship with Dario means I will allow you to remain working on the project if you do not meet those standards. If your work proves unsatisfactory, you will be asked to leave.’
Rather bizarrely, Rose’s surname is Bennet and in the same way as Miss Elizabeth Bennet starts to change her opinion of Mr Darcy, Rose, also begins to see a softer and more gentle side to Luca. This style of romantic novel is tried and tested for a reason. Jane Austen's blueprint of the witty, independent woman and the brooding, wealthy man, who must both get out of their own ways to find love. It works perfectly in this book.
There are humorous moments in this story which add a light touch, enhance the pacing and give the reader an emotional break during tense moments. Luca’s sister, fourteen-year-old Gianna, asks rather direct, awkward questions.
“‘Rose. Are you Luca’s new girlfriend?” “No”, I stuttered. Talking to a teenager about the nuances of adult dating was way beyond my skill set. And, in the case of Luca’s sister, over my pay grade.’
The dual timeline allows the reader to uncover the past. Societal norms, family secrets, and how past actions ripple into the present. I will make a comment about the different Italian spellings in the book of ‘domani’ (tomorrow) and 'ciao' (hi) but this in no way detracts from the engaging story and power of the book to transport the reader entirely to one of the most beautiful, secret and magical cities in the world.
I love the references to artists of Venice (some I am familiar with and some I am not!) and musicians. Vivaldi's musical footprint remains a major part of the Venetian cultural landscape, so it seems fitting that his music was played at the ball, ‘beneath the glittering chandeliers and gilded branches.’
The juxtaposition in this story is the two love stories running through it, which have their own trials and tribulations. Luca’s heart has been broken once before, so does he have the capacity to love again?
‘Luca Casserini doesn’t do serious relationships.’
Will Marietta disobey her father's wishes for her arranged marriage and find love with a poor artist.
‘The Casserini do not wed for love but for commercial and political alliance’
Love demands continuous vulnerability, compromise, and resilience and this book delivers on all counts.
‘She was alone in a fifteenth-century palazzo in a foreign city where she had no friends and didn’t speak the language. She’d spent the day longing for her journey to be over, eager to begin this new chapter of her life, but now she experienced the overwhelming yearning to be back home in London. In the next instant, it came to her as forcibly as a punch that she had no home to go back to and no boyfriend who wanted her back.’
She is forcing herself into an active journey of self-discovery and the rebuilding of her personal identity.
The first glimpse of Venice is most spectacular when arriving by water, which the reader sees through Rose’s eyes. This is wonderfully descriptive and perfectly captures the city’s magic. Rose and the reader are bewitched.
‘The vaporetto left the dock, sailing along the waterfront before entering a broad canal lined with grand palazzi, their ornate facades built right on the water. They were so exquisitely beautiful in different shades of terracotta, yellow ochre, pink and russet that Rose gasped at the sight.’
Her assignment sounds like a dream yet daunting. Her new employer is the enigmatic and aloof Luca Casserini, whose family have owned the Venetian Palazzo for six hundred years. He is a handsome guitar-playing, masculine Italian with striking Mediterranean features. He is hot!
Sergio, the head of the restoration team, gives Rose the task of restoring a painting of a young woman seated by a window wearing a blue gown. There is no signature on the painting, and no one knows who the young woman is, but documents from 1536 suggest that it could have been painted by an apprentice of Nicolo Zano.
‘Who was she? This unknown young woman who, five centuries ago, had her portrait painted by an unknown artist. Had she lived in the Ca ’d’Ambra? Was she an ancestor of the palazzo’s present owner?’
Intriguing questions indeed! Rose turns art detective.
What I loved about the story is the dual timeline, which is now introduced as a brilliant narrative technique that weaves together two distinct storylines, one in the present and one in 1536. This is a great way to connect past events to the mystery of the young woman in the painting. Cleverly, the author changes the pace, the vocabulary, the dialogue and the tense to set the historical context of the sixteenth century with authenticity. We are transported back in time to a day in the life of a girl called Marietta.
‘I am in my bedchamber, sitting by the window, drying and bleaching my hair in a pool of sunlight while reading a book of love poetry, when a servant brings word that I am summoned to the portego by my father Pietro Casserini, who is not to be kept waiting.’
As Rose cleans and restores more of the painting to reveal the sitter, the reader uncovers more about not only the life of the mystery woman but also life in Venice in this period, at the height of its Renaissance glory. It was a golden age for art and music. The book is a real insight into the life of a Venetian girl in 16th-century Venice, which was shaped by the city’s unique maritime economy, its patriarchal culture, and the strict divides of social class. As the daughter of a Doge or Duke, Marietta enjoyed a life of refined privilege, but it often meant living in seclusion and accepting an arranged marriage. The reader catches a glimpse into a world of luxury, shaped by traditions and expectations!
An attraction between two people needs to feel convincing and compelling, and the author definitely creates characters with their own flaws and quirks. There is clearly a natural chemistry between Rose and Luca, but they don’t get off to the best of starts. For me, there is a touch of ‘Mr Darcy’ about Luca. Epitomised with wealth and social standing, he shows a similar arrogance when we first meet him. As Pride and Prejudice is one of my favourite books of all time, I adore the idea of a quintessential romantic hero in a story who is who is a bit brooding and emotionally restrained. Luca requests that she join him in the portego (central connecting hall of the Venetian palace) where he makes it clear what is expected of her.
‘You have Dario to thank for getting you this job, but you will have to prove to me you are capable of doing it as well as he would have done, if you expect to keep it. I have high standards for everyone employed on the Ca’ d’Ambra’s restoration. You must not presume that our mutual friendship with Dario means I will allow you to remain working on the project if you do not meet those standards. If your work proves unsatisfactory, you will be asked to leave.’
Rather bizarrely, Rose’s surname is Bennet and in the same way as Miss Elizabeth Bennet starts to change her opinion of Mr Darcy, Rose, also begins to see a softer and more gentle side to Luca. This style of romantic novel is tried and tested for a reason. Jane Austen's blueprint of the witty, independent woman and the brooding, wealthy man, who must both get out of their own ways to find love. It works perfectly in this book.
There are humorous moments in this story which add a light touch, enhance the pacing and give the reader an emotional break during tense moments. Luca’s sister, fourteen-year-old Gianna, asks rather direct, awkward questions.
“‘Rose. Are you Luca’s new girlfriend?” “No”, I stuttered. Talking to a teenager about the nuances of adult dating was way beyond my skill set. And, in the case of Luca’s sister, over my pay grade.’
The dual timeline allows the reader to uncover the past. Societal norms, family secrets, and how past actions ripple into the present. I will make a comment about the different Italian spellings in the book of ‘domani’ (tomorrow) and 'ciao' (hi) but this in no way detracts from the engaging story and power of the book to transport the reader entirely to one of the most beautiful, secret and magical cities in the world.
I love the references to artists of Venice (some I am familiar with and some I am not!) and musicians. Vivaldi's musical footprint remains a major part of the Venetian cultural landscape, so it seems fitting that his music was played at the ball, ‘beneath the glittering chandeliers and gilded branches.’
The juxtaposition in this story is the two love stories running through it, which have their own trials and tribulations. Luca’s heart has been broken once before, so does he have the capacity to love again?
‘Luca Casserini doesn’t do serious relationships.’
Will Marietta disobey her father's wishes for her arranged marriage and find love with a poor artist.
‘The Casserini do not wed for love but for commercial and political alliance’
Love demands continuous vulnerability, compromise, and resilience and this book delivers on all counts.
May 19, 2026
I have always wanted to visit Venice, and Ms. Shelby’s vibrant and detailed descriptions of the Floating City are a delight for an armchair tourist like me. Rose and Luca are an unlikely couple who have a love of art and the history of Venice.
This romance has a dual timeline in Venice that spans the 16th century to the present adding intrigue and mystery, especially around a beautiful painting that Rose is working hard to restore.
Rose Bennet is an art conservator whose love for her job shines through. When a friend, Dario, gifts her a trip to Venice after she is heartbroken and homeless due to her ex, it feels like a blessing in disguise. As soon as she arrives, she meets her brooding boss, Luca Casserini. Initially, their chemistry is more like oil and water, but as the story unfolds, feelings begin to simmer.
Luca has big dreams of turning his palazzo into a gallery filled with beautiful artwork, but he’s got a lot on his plate, including raising his teenage sister. He’s driven, focused, and may come off a bit hotheaded at times. However, it is lovely to watch him slowly woo his English Rose by giving her tours of the city and beyond. There’s something deeply romantic about a man who plays his guitar at night to relax after a busy day.
The dynamic between Rose and Luca is captivating, filled with misunderstandings and genuine apologies. They try to keep their relationship under wraps from Rose’s fellow conservators and Luca’s younger sister, but that proves to be a major challenge. Plus, there is the deadline looming of Rose finishing her contract and going back to London and she doesn’t know how Luca truly feels about her.
Interwoven throughout the story are glimpses into the 16th-century past, revealing the history tied to on the paintings. These snippets revolve around a noblewoman and her forbidden romance, culminating in a fantastic revelation that helps guide Rose and Luca towards their own resolution.
What struck me the most about the book was Ms. Shelby’s incredible attention to detail, especially when it comes to the art and scenery of Venice. I was especially delighted by the art restoration and found myself engrossed in the meticulous process Rose undertakes. It’s such a unique and captivating career that I couldn’t help but admire.
If you want to immerse yourself in Venice with a couple of romances thrown in, I suggest you pack your imaginary bags and get ready to lose yourself in this book.
Thank you to Ms. Shelby for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
For more of my reviews, visit The Eclectic Review.
This romance has a dual timeline in Venice that spans the 16th century to the present adding intrigue and mystery, especially around a beautiful painting that Rose is working hard to restore.
Rose Bennet is an art conservator whose love for her job shines through. When a friend, Dario, gifts her a trip to Venice after she is heartbroken and homeless due to her ex, it feels like a blessing in disguise. As soon as she arrives, she meets her brooding boss, Luca Casserini. Initially, their chemistry is more like oil and water, but as the story unfolds, feelings begin to simmer.
Luca has big dreams of turning his palazzo into a gallery filled with beautiful artwork, but he’s got a lot on his plate, including raising his teenage sister. He’s driven, focused, and may come off a bit hotheaded at times. However, it is lovely to watch him slowly woo his English Rose by giving her tours of the city and beyond. There’s something deeply romantic about a man who plays his guitar at night to relax after a busy day.
The dynamic between Rose and Luca is captivating, filled with misunderstandings and genuine apologies. They try to keep their relationship under wraps from Rose’s fellow conservators and Luca’s younger sister, but that proves to be a major challenge. Plus, there is the deadline looming of Rose finishing her contract and going back to London and she doesn’t know how Luca truly feels about her.
Interwoven throughout the story are glimpses into the 16th-century past, revealing the history tied to on the paintings. These snippets revolve around a noblewoman and her forbidden romance, culminating in a fantastic revelation that helps guide Rose and Luca towards their own resolution.
What struck me the most about the book was Ms. Shelby’s incredible attention to detail, especially when it comes to the art and scenery of Venice. I was especially delighted by the art restoration and found myself engrossed in the meticulous process Rose undertakes. It’s such a unique and captivating career that I couldn’t help but admire.
If you want to immerse yourself in Venice with a couple of romances thrown in, I suggest you pack your imaginary bags and get ready to lose yourself in this book.
Thank you to Ms. Shelby for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
For more of my reviews, visit The Eclectic Review.
June 25, 2026
A Venice Summer by Lynne Shelby
ISBN-13 : 978-1068358432
Shaldo Books
A Venice Summer is a beautifully atmospheric romance that really captures Venice during the sweltering months of summer. Lynne has little touches that really convey the sticky atmosphere – from devouring stuzzichini and prosecco in little restaurants down to the thin cotton sheets our heroine Rose is using instead of a blanket or duvet (although she doesn’t mention mosquitos once – this is a romance after all!).
Rose, an English art conservator between jobs, accepts a three-month contract to restore paintings in the Ca’ d'Ambra, a grand Venetian palazzo. There she meets Luca Casserini, the palazzo's aristocratic owner. Woven through the main narrative is a clever dual timeline that explores the history of a Renaissance portrait Rose is restoring. Without spoiling anything, the portrait becomes a pivotal point in the story in more ways than one.
The pacing is great – and the story kept me engaged throughout. Towards the very end, Rose does something I really didn’t expect, with dramatic impact. It felt both plausible and out of character, which was cleverly done. I also loved the informative technical details about art restoration which, along with the mystery around the portrait of the girl in a blue dress, made the professional elements of the story genuinely interesting.
If I had to ask for one thing to make this completely perfect it would be for Luca to be a bit more Italian. His English was so perfect with the occasion occasional ‘si’ or ‘buongiorno’ dropped in. I’m glad Lynne didn’t descend into cliché or caricature but I’d have loved a bit more Italian-ness (even if he is Venetian).
Final Verdict
A Venice Summer is exactly what it promises: a lovely summer read with atmospheric setting, engaging pacing, and a genuinely affecting romance. It's the perfect escapist story especially if, like me, you’re avoiding the airport queues, heat (and mozzies!) and staying at home.
I received an ARC from the author.
ISBN-13 : 978-1068358432
Shaldo Books
A Venice Summer is a beautifully atmospheric romance that really captures Venice during the sweltering months of summer. Lynne has little touches that really convey the sticky atmosphere – from devouring stuzzichini and prosecco in little restaurants down to the thin cotton sheets our heroine Rose is using instead of a blanket or duvet (although she doesn’t mention mosquitos once – this is a romance after all!).
Rose, an English art conservator between jobs, accepts a three-month contract to restore paintings in the Ca’ d'Ambra, a grand Venetian palazzo. There she meets Luca Casserini, the palazzo's aristocratic owner. Woven through the main narrative is a clever dual timeline that explores the history of a Renaissance portrait Rose is restoring. Without spoiling anything, the portrait becomes a pivotal point in the story in more ways than one.
The pacing is great – and the story kept me engaged throughout. Towards the very end, Rose does something I really didn’t expect, with dramatic impact. It felt both plausible and out of character, which was cleverly done. I also loved the informative technical details about art restoration which, along with the mystery around the portrait of the girl in a blue dress, made the professional elements of the story genuinely interesting.
If I had to ask for one thing to make this completely perfect it would be for Luca to be a bit more Italian. His English was so perfect with the occasion occasional ‘si’ or ‘buongiorno’ dropped in. I’m glad Lynne didn’t descend into cliché or caricature but I’d have loved a bit more Italian-ness (even if he is Venetian).
Final Verdict
A Venice Summer is exactly what it promises: a lovely summer read with atmospheric setting, engaging pacing, and a genuinely affecting romance. It's the perfect escapist story especially if, like me, you’re avoiding the airport queues, heat (and mozzies!) and staying at home.
I received an ARC from the author.
July 18, 2026
A Venice Summer is a delightful dual-timeline novel featuring an English picture conservator, Rose Bennet, set to work restoring a mystery painting of a young woman in a blue dress, with chapters set in 1536 explaining the story of the picture’s origins.
Rose and her new boss, Luca Casserini, owner of the Venetian palazzo about to open as an art gallery, don’t get off to a good start. He comes across as rude and arrogant, but realises he has made a bad impression, apologises and offers to show Rose the sights of Venice. He has been hurt in the past and is understandably slow to trust. Having just suffered a bad break-up, Rose too is wary. Their relationship develops at a realistic pace and Rose starts to imagine staying in Venice when her contract is over.
At first, Rose is out of her comfort zone, alone in a foreign country, but slowly finds her feet and starts to make friends. As she uncovers the painting beneath the layers of old varnish, she becomes convinced it was painted by her favourite Renaissance artist, Nicolò Zano, but cannot find any proof.
My favourite aspects of this fascinating book were the vivid descriptions of Venice, albeit slightly romanticised, and the art history which I remember from my studies many years ago. I definitely picked up hints of Pride and Prejudice in the detail. I have read and enjoyed most of this author’s books and A Venice Summer is one of the best. I read this book as a member of Rosie’s Book Review Team.
Rose and her new boss, Luca Casserini, owner of the Venetian palazzo about to open as an art gallery, don’t get off to a good start. He comes across as rude and arrogant, but realises he has made a bad impression, apologises and offers to show Rose the sights of Venice. He has been hurt in the past and is understandably slow to trust. Having just suffered a bad break-up, Rose too is wary. Their relationship develops at a realistic pace and Rose starts to imagine staying in Venice when her contract is over.
At first, Rose is out of her comfort zone, alone in a foreign country, but slowly finds her feet and starts to make friends. As she uncovers the painting beneath the layers of old varnish, she becomes convinced it was painted by her favourite Renaissance artist, Nicolò Zano, but cannot find any proof.
My favourite aspects of this fascinating book were the vivid descriptions of Venice, albeit slightly romanticised, and the art history which I remember from my studies many years ago. I definitely picked up hints of Pride and Prejudice in the detail. I have read and enjoyed most of this author’s books and A Venice Summer is one of the best. I read this book as a member of Rosie’s Book Review Team.
Review of advance copy received from Author
What a gorgeous story!
This dual-timeline tale focuses on an art conservator, Rose, who moves to Venice for the summer to work on a special project.
While there, she begins to unravel a mystery connected to the 16th-century painting she is restoring, as well as possibly falling headlong into love with not only Venice but also a certain young man, too.
Reading the short snippets relating to a young Italian noblewoman, rumoured to be the subject of the artwork being restored really added another layer of depth to the whole story.
Rose's character warmed to me as she isn't a flighty young thing, but going through her own metamorphosis when she escapes to Venice for this job that fell at her feet at an extremely convenient time.
Luca, the owner of the palazzo where Rose is stationed, is a brooding Italian hero with his own responsibilities, which he never forgets, and I love that in a man!
When I read these destination books, I always want to go there so I can experience the place, and this book did exactly that. The authors' fantastic descriptions of the areas in Venice, and the architecture really made me want to visit personally, too.
The detail regarding the restoration of artworks was fascinating, and I now want to go to a proper Venetian masked ball!
This dual-timeline tale focuses on an art conservator, Rose, who moves to Venice for the summer to work on a special project.
While there, she begins to unravel a mystery connected to the 16th-century painting she is restoring, as well as possibly falling headlong into love with not only Venice but also a certain young man, too.
Reading the short snippets relating to a young Italian noblewoman, rumoured to be the subject of the artwork being restored really added another layer of depth to the whole story.
Rose's character warmed to me as she isn't a flighty young thing, but going through her own metamorphosis when she escapes to Venice for this job that fell at her feet at an extremely convenient time.
Luca, the owner of the palazzo where Rose is stationed, is a brooding Italian hero with his own responsibilities, which he never forgets, and I love that in a man!
When I read these destination books, I always want to go there so I can experience the place, and this book did exactly that. The authors' fantastic descriptions of the areas in Venice, and the architecture really made me want to visit personally, too.
The detail regarding the restoration of artworks was fascinating, and I now want to go to a proper Venetian masked ball!
May 15, 2026
I enjoyed the dual timeline aspect of this story. Most of the storyline takes part in the present day when Rose finds herself working as an Art Conservator in the historic Ca’ D’Ambra, concentrating on an unknown painting of a young woman in a blue dress. As the story unfolds, you find out more about the story behind the painting and its artist. Rose is nursing a broken heart when she arrives in Venice and finds the family atmosphere comforting and a source of hope.
The family in Ca’ D’Ambra have had a tragedy in the past which has affected all their lives, none more so than Luca who has had to take over the running of the establishment. Although their first meeting is unfortunate, a friendship develops between Rose and Luca which comes under severe strain. As Rose travels around Venice, you are given a wonderful picture of life in the city and its rich history. With a range of characters and interesting information about art history and the care of the paintings, this is a delightful Summer read.
Thanks to the publisher
In short: italian sunshine and romance
The family in Ca’ D’Ambra have had a tragedy in the past which has affected all their lives, none more so than Luca who has had to take over the running of the establishment. Although their first meeting is unfortunate, a friendship develops between Rose and Luca which comes under severe strain. As Rose travels around Venice, you are given a wonderful picture of life in the city and its rich history. With a range of characters and interesting information about art history and the care of the paintings, this is a delightful Summer read.
Thanks to the publisher
In short: italian sunshine and romance
June 8, 2026
What a wonderful read this is. It's the first book I've read by this author.
Rose is jobless and heartbroken and goes to Venice to restore a painting for a new Gallery opening in a few months. The Gallery owner, Luca, is a brooding but handsome Italian businessman. At their first meeting they get off to a bad start.
As the story progresses Luca starts opening up to Rose and their relationship deepens but can it last.
Interwoven into the story, is the story of the painting Rose is restoring, The Lady in the Blue Dress. This is set in the 16th century and I loved the dual timeline of the two contrasting love stories.
The setting of Venice is stunning and having visited there previously it took me back. I loved the author's descriptions of the place and food.
There is a wonderful range of supporting characters, some more likeable than others. The story has plenty fun, drama, friendship and romance and I devoured this in a few sittings.
Rose is jobless and heartbroken and goes to Venice to restore a painting for a new Gallery opening in a few months. The Gallery owner, Luca, is a brooding but handsome Italian businessman. At their first meeting they get off to a bad start.
As the story progresses Luca starts opening up to Rose and their relationship deepens but can it last.
Interwoven into the story, is the story of the painting Rose is restoring, The Lady in the Blue Dress. This is set in the 16th century and I loved the dual timeline of the two contrasting love stories.
The setting of Venice is stunning and having visited there previously it took me back. I loved the author's descriptions of the place and food.
There is a wonderful range of supporting characters, some more likeable than others. The story has plenty fun, drama, friendship and romance and I devoured this in a few sittings.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love reading books that visit beautiful places and so I was excited to read this one, the vivid descriptions brought the city to life for me.
I adored that the story was filled with history too and a handsome, brooding man who captures Rose’s heart as she explores the city.
Rose finds herself unexpectedly in Venice for the summer, renovating a 16th century painting of a young woman. Rose is soon invested into discovering who the lady is and which artist painted the portrait. A cleverly written duel timeline adds wonderful depth to the book.
During the story we have flashbacks from a young Venetian woman and we gradually get to hear the story behind the painting.
Such a gorgeous book, filled with sunshine and stunning scenery that had me longing to visit this special place where love is never far away.
July 12, 2026
This novel had me at Venice and did not disappoint. It is the perfect setting for romance and an art mystery. The author created such vivid scenes of Venice that I was lost in those alleyways and on those bridges. I enjoyed getting to know Rose. She is an art conservator, and this fascinated me, but delving into the story of The Girl in the Blue Dress was also wonderful.
The dual timelines are six hundred years apart and skilfully woven together, giving an insight into the power of romantic love. The diary of the girl in the painting whispers some secrets to that to the reader that the characters are unaware of, and this adds to the tension.
I could not wait to escape to this novel each evening. If you love romance, mystery and destination fiction, then prepared to be immersed in a magical world. And the masked ball is such a gorgeous finale!
June 14, 2026
Loved this beautiful book set in Venice, the dual time line caught my interest and I was swept away with the romance within both stories.
The descriptions of the artwork were so vivid and I could imagine the fabrics of the beautiful costumes and masks.
The waterways and bridges sound wonderful and I now want to visit this historical place.
The descriptions of the artwork were so vivid and I could imagine the fabrics of the beautiful costumes and masks.
The waterways and bridges sound wonderful and I now want to visit this historical place.
July 22, 2026
I really loved this. This author has a real gift for evoking place and culture and history. I love Venice and Lynne did a fabulous job of making me believe I was there - both today and in 1536.
This is a superb story with engaging characters and and emotionally satisfying ending. Utterly fabulous!
This is a superb story with engaging characters and and emotionally satisfying ending. Utterly fabulous!
June 25, 2026
An enjoyable romance based around an old painting of a mystery girl in a blue dress, with flashbacks to the 16th century and lots of authentic Venice detail for those who want to really feel they are there! The only negative for me was the high number of proofread errors.
June 28, 2026
A book set in Venice...a dual timeline...a mystery and romance. A perfect combination for a delightful summer read. Thank you!
July 3, 2026
Really enjoyed the historical links in the story, I learnt a lot about that period
July 9, 2026
Bellissimo
A perfect holiday escape taking you through the street s of Venice.
Beautiful description of Venice and glimpses of history art
A perfect holiday escape taking you through the street s of Venice.
Beautiful description of Venice and glimpses of history art
August 4, 2026
Absolutely wonderful, couldn’t put it down . Want to read more by this author
June 10, 2026
This really was the most gorgeous romantic read, set in a perfectly described setting - Venice is so much more than a backdrop, it’s another character in the lovely story, brought vividly to life through the author’s wonderful descriptions, enhanced by her obvious love for the parts of the city the tourists never reach.
Art conservator, Rose, finds herself intrigued by the mystery behind the painting she’s restoring - and, through short dual time sections, perfectly handled, we find out more about its subject, a noblewoman engaged in a forbidden relationship with the artist. It’s such an engaging story, but so is the present day thread - Rose’s tentative and developing relationship with Luca, the owner of the palazzo where she’s working. It’s a very convincing love story, after their difficult first encounter and an unpromising start - the most perfect emotional touches, with the many complications in Luca’s life making its progress anything but straightforward. The detail on the process of art restoration was simply fascinating too - clearly meticulously researched, but nicely woven into the story.
This was a beautifully told story that I thoroughly enjoyed - and would very much recommend to others.
Art conservator, Rose, finds herself intrigued by the mystery behind the painting she’s restoring - and, through short dual time sections, perfectly handled, we find out more about its subject, a noblewoman engaged in a forbidden relationship with the artist. It’s such an engaging story, but so is the present day thread - Rose’s tentative and developing relationship with Luca, the owner of the palazzo where she’s working. It’s a very convincing love story, after their difficult first encounter and an unpromising start - the most perfect emotional touches, with the many complications in Luca’s life making its progress anything but straightforward. The detail on the process of art restoration was simply fascinating too - clearly meticulously researched, but nicely woven into the story.
This was a beautifully told story that I thoroughly enjoyed - and would very much recommend to others.
May 18, 2026
What an absolutely lovely book set in the wonderful and gorgeous location of Venice. Art conservator Rose Bennet is coming to terms with a bitter break-up when she is offered her dream job. She will be part of a team restoring an art collection in the Ca’D’Ambra a five hundred year old Venetian palazzo. Rose finds Luca Casserini the owner, and her new boss, of the palazzo very good looking but arrogant and short-tempered. Rose reminds herself though that she only has to put up with for the summer. When she becomes lost while exploring Venice the last person she expects to see and offer her help is Luca. As they get to know each other she finds out more about why he comes across as he does and they start to form a friendship. However Rose’s feelings start to develop into more but does Luca feel the same? I really loved how this flowed, the interactions between the characters and how they were all described, alongside just enough drama and intrigue. What I hadn’t initially expected was the dual timeline aspect to this which in my opinion made this an even more interesting read
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