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La Dolce Veto
La Dolce Veto is a deliciously sweet slow-burn romance full of yearning, fresh starts, and the magic of love under the Italian sun.
He’s rebuilding his town. She’s rebuilding her life.
Isabella Rhodes was supposed to be living the dream.
But when a devastating betrayal shatters her reputation overnight, she escapes to La Musa, a sleepy village in the heart of Italy where the days are slow, the pasta is handmade, and no one knows her name.
Izzy hopes to start over. But her plans unravel when she discovers she’s sharing her idyllic villa with Benito Farentino, the brooding, newly elected mayor. He’s just as determined to save his crumbling hometown as he is unwilling to trust an outsider like Izzy.
As tensions grow over the town’s future , Izzy’s pulled further into Benito’s world.
And soon, what began as a quiet escape becomes a chance to rebuild, to believe again, and maybe even to fall in love...
He’s rebuilding his town. She’s rebuilding her life.
Isabella Rhodes was supposed to be living the dream.
But when a devastating betrayal shatters her reputation overnight, she escapes to La Musa, a sleepy village in the heart of Italy where the days are slow, the pasta is handmade, and no one knows her name.
Izzy hopes to start over. But her plans unravel when she discovers she’s sharing her idyllic villa with Benito Farentino, the brooding, newly elected mayor. He’s just as determined to save his crumbling hometown as he is unwilling to trust an outsider like Izzy.
As tensions grow over the town’s future , Izzy’s pulled further into Benito’s world.
And soon, what began as a quiet escape becomes a chance to rebuild, to believe again, and maybe even to fall in love...
Audible Audio
Published April 7, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 522 reviews
December 29, 2025
I wrote this book and I am proud of it :)
April 15, 2026
As someone with a serious case of wanderlust who has always dreamed of visiting Italy, I loved how this story transported me. I was so excited to dive into La Dolce Veto by Caitlin Alice Gilbert, and I was surprised to learn it was her debut novel! The setting was incredibly detailed, and it felt like a total mini-vacation to the dreamy atmosphere of the sun-soaked Umbrian town of La Musa. The author paints such a vivid picture of the local life, from the gelato and wine to the incredible food, it really captures that feeling of hopping on a plane, saying goodbye to your everyday life, and starting over somewhere new. The scenes set in Lake Como were also so beautiful, the descriptions are so lush that I could practically see the sunlight hitting the water. It was a fun touch to see slight easter egg references to stories with similar themes, like Eat Pray Love and Under the Tuscan Sun, which perfectly set the tone for this journey of reinventing yourself.
I don’t usually gravitate toward workplace-centered or political-themed romances, especially with a main character serving as a congresswoman, but I really liked how ambitious and driven the female lead, Isabella, was. Watching her navigate her career in a traditionally male-dominated field, while overcoming failure and trying to find her own way forward, was a really nice, empowering message. The familiar romance tropes kept this story fun and light, too. For example, the grumpy/sunshine dynamic and forced proximity at the Villa Farentino kept the banter sharp and engaging throughout.
For my fellow audiobook lovers, the narration by Anthea Greco is very clear and easy to follow, even at 2x speed or higher. I mostly listened to the audio, but I did find myself jumping over to the ebook in my Kindle app to translate some of the brief Italian conversational phrases so I could fully soak in the context. Doing a bit of "immersive reading"—reading and listening at the same time—was definitely the best way to catch every detail of the culture and the story! Overall, this is a light, romantic read for your spring or summer TBR.
✨ Perfect if you love:
✈️ Travel romances set in Italy
🏡 Charming small town vibes
☀️ Grumpy x Sunshine dynamic
🚪 Forced proximity & sharp banter
🌱 Stories about self-discovery and starting over
Thank you to the publisher, Keeperton Audiobooks / Arndell, for the advanced listener copy and ebook via NetGalley for review consideration. I am choosing to leave this review voluntarily. These are my honest opinions.
I don’t usually gravitate toward workplace-centered or political-themed romances, especially with a main character serving as a congresswoman, but I really liked how ambitious and driven the female lead, Isabella, was. Watching her navigate her career in a traditionally male-dominated field, while overcoming failure and trying to find her own way forward, was a really nice, empowering message. The familiar romance tropes kept this story fun and light, too. For example, the grumpy/sunshine dynamic and forced proximity at the Villa Farentino kept the banter sharp and engaging throughout.
For my fellow audiobook lovers, the narration by Anthea Greco is very clear and easy to follow, even at 2x speed or higher. I mostly listened to the audio, but I did find myself jumping over to the ebook in my Kindle app to translate some of the brief Italian conversational phrases so I could fully soak in the context. Doing a bit of "immersive reading"—reading and listening at the same time—was definitely the best way to catch every detail of the culture and the story! Overall, this is a light, romantic read for your spring or summer TBR.
✨ Perfect if you love:
✈️ Travel romances set in Italy
🏡 Charming small town vibes
☀️ Grumpy x Sunshine dynamic
🚪 Forced proximity & sharp banter
🌱 Stories about self-discovery and starting over
Thank you to the publisher, Keeperton Audiobooks / Arndell, for the advanced listener copy and ebook via NetGalley for review consideration. I am choosing to leave this review voluntarily. These are my honest opinions.
May 22, 2026
⋆ ˚｡⋆୨୧˚ 4 stars ˚୨୧⋆｡˚ ⋆
wow i actually enjoyed this so much! i don't usually pick up romances with themes of politics but from the first page i was captivated by the story. i was shocked when i found out that this is the author's debut novel because the writing is truly amazing. there was not one moment that i was bored of reading.
i read and listened to la dolce veto simultaneously, and let me tell you the immersive reading contributed so much to the experience. it felt as though i was right there with the characters, experiencing their culture as well as being able to vividly picture the scenery. it really makes me want to visit italy now! the narration was so fun and easy to follow.
the characters were lovable for me. isabella feels very real and she was driven to make the world a better place. benito on the other hand is our typical grumpy mmc and i liked seeing him open up and have development in his character.
overall, this is the perfect summer romance to add to your tbr. if you like the idea of an italian small town setting, banter, grumpy x sunshine, and forced proximity then this is for you. do keep in mind that this is a slowww burn, but it's so worth it. 🤭 i look forward to reading more by this author in the future.
˗ˋˏ ୨୧ thank you to NetGalley, Keeperton | Arndell, and Caitlin Alice Gilbert for the digital arc and alc in exchange for an honest review! ୨୧ ˎˊ˗
pre-read:
got the e-arc and alc on release date, and so far so good!
wow i actually enjoyed this so much! i don't usually pick up romances with themes of politics but from the first page i was captivated by the story. i was shocked when i found out that this is the author's debut novel because the writing is truly amazing. there was not one moment that i was bored of reading.
i read and listened to la dolce veto simultaneously, and let me tell you the immersive reading contributed so much to the experience. it felt as though i was right there with the characters, experiencing their culture as well as being able to vividly picture the scenery. it really makes me want to visit italy now! the narration was so fun and easy to follow.
the characters were lovable for me. isabella feels very real and she was driven to make the world a better place. benito on the other hand is our typical grumpy mmc and i liked seeing him open up and have development in his character.
overall, this is the perfect summer romance to add to your tbr. if you like the idea of an italian small town setting, banter, grumpy x sunshine, and forced proximity then this is for you. do keep in mind that this is a slowww burn, but it's so worth it. 🤭 i look forward to reading more by this author in the future.
˗ˋˏ ୨୧ thank you to NetGalley, Keeperton | Arndell, and Caitlin Alice Gilbert for the digital arc and alc in exchange for an honest review! ୨୧ ˎˊ˗
pre-read:
got the e-arc and alc on release date, and so far so good!
April 19, 2026
Thank you keeperton and arndell 🫶
okay but I didn’t expect to get this attached…
I went in thinking it would just be a cute small town Italian romance, and it ended up having way more depth than i thought. Izzy feels really reaaaal she makes messy choices, has her struggles, but you can’t help rooting for her.
and Benito… aaaaa yeah he got me. he starts off very closed off and a bit difficult, but the slow shift in his character is so worth it. the grumpy x sunshine dynamic really delivers.
also this is a true slow burn. like *SLOOW* slow. the tension, the forced proximity AND with the “only one bed trope… itt takes its time but the payoff feels earned.
I was a bit unsure about the political subplot at first, but it actually added a lot without taking away from the romance.
and the setting?? italian summer, small town vibes, food, family drama… it’s very easy to get lost in it. and as an italian … I loved the little details and the way everything felt, it just hit different💕
I finished it waaay too fast and I’m still thinking about it, which says a lot 😭
okay but I didn’t expect to get this attached…
I went in thinking it would just be a cute small town Italian romance, and it ended up having way more depth than i thought. Izzy feels really reaaaal she makes messy choices, has her struggles, but you can’t help rooting for her.
and Benito… aaaaa yeah he got me. he starts off very closed off and a bit difficult, but the slow shift in his character is so worth it. the grumpy x sunshine dynamic really delivers.
also this is a true slow burn. like *SLOOW* slow. the tension, the forced proximity AND with the “only one bed trope… itt takes its time but the payoff feels earned.
I was a bit unsure about the political subplot at first, but it actually added a lot without taking away from the romance.
and the setting?? italian summer, small town vibes, food, family drama… it’s very easy to get lost in it. and as an italian … I loved the little details and the way everything felt, it just hit different💕
I finished it waaay too fast and I’m still thinking about it, which says a lot 😭
April 10, 2026
Wow, honestly, this book blew me away and I haven’t been able to stop thinking about it! I loved everything about it—wasn’t initially sure how I felt about the politics aspect but it turned out to be such a unique element tactfully handled, the slow burn romance, the SETTING 😍, and even the drama.
Benito was the most perfect grumpy Italian dreamboat that I was iffy on initially but grew to adore. Izzy was flawed and her decisions at times drove me crazy, but she was so real and believable and relatable. I still was rooting for her and for her and Benito to get together already! 😂 Love/hate relationship with the slow burn but it was worth it.
So much happens in this book and I was certainly never bored. I felt like all of the plot lines worked well together to give our MCs their very hard earned HEA. I appreciated how they really had to work for it and the ending was never totally transparent as to how everything was going to work out.
I was in lovvvve with the small Italian countryside town! In faaaaact, back in 2016, my husband and I visited a small town outside of Florence called Fiesole that sounded exactly like the town described in this book! So this book was really brought to life in my mind and I felt like I was living it alongside Izzy.
🎧Listen, I think Anthea Greco may be one of my new favorite audiobook narrators! She was simply incredible. Her voice was absolutely perfect for Izzy and her ability to do other characters’ voices, including Italian accents, was truly flawless and kept me so invested in the story. Highly HIGHLY recommend listening to this one!!
Benito was the most perfect grumpy Italian dreamboat that I was iffy on initially but grew to adore. Izzy was flawed and her decisions at times drove me crazy, but she was so real and believable and relatable. I still was rooting for her and for her and Benito to get together already! 😂 Love/hate relationship with the slow burn but it was worth it.
So much happens in this book and I was certainly never bored. I felt like all of the plot lines worked well together to give our MCs their very hard earned HEA. I appreciated how they really had to work for it and the ending was never totally transparent as to how everything was going to work out.
I was in lovvvve with the small Italian countryside town! In faaaaact, back in 2016, my husband and I visited a small town outside of Florence called Fiesole that sounded exactly like the town described in this book! So this book was really brought to life in my mind and I felt like I was living it alongside Izzy.
🎧Listen, I think Anthea Greco may be one of my new favorite audiobook narrators! She was simply incredible. Her voice was absolutely perfect for Izzy and her ability to do other characters’ voices, including Italian accents, was truly flawless and kept me so invested in the story. Highly HIGHLY recommend listening to this one!!
March 26, 2026
I love getting to read an authors debut novel and I’m especially excited if it’s an advanced copy. La Dolce Veto was such a great debut and I’m so happy I got my hands on it. I was a little unsure how I’d feel about a political romance but I was absolutely enraged and hooked from the prologue. Caitlin’s writing is amazing and who doesn’t want to read about a romance in a small village in Italy? Izzy was such a new type of character to read about but I fell in love with her drive and want to make the word a better place while also wanting to have her love reciprocated. I’m always ready to read about a grumpy MMC so Benito was a great character for me. I loved to see him thaw with Izzy and finally do what he wanted instead of what others wanted him to do. I loved the romance between Izzy and Benito and everything that had to overcome to be together. This was such a dreamy romance and I really loved it. I rate it 4/5 stars and recommend it to anyone who likes forced proximity, and only one bed romances set in Italy.
April 17, 2026
That was a fun ride.
Don’t get me wrong, this book made me feel so many emotional. In the prologue itself I was spitting mad on behalf of heroine. And then again in various parts of the book. It made me laugh and it made me cheer for some characters (I’m looking at you Anita).
I loved how charming La Musa was depicted in the story. The various characters and their quirks- I enjoyed it all.
To say Izzy’s journey was turbulent is understatement. But it also had a wonderful message- to never give up. Another highlight was Izzy stood firm for herself when it was needed. I liked hero Benito too.
I wish there was more character growth for Izzy. I also didn’t like that she was kinda rotating between Giac and Benito when she actually liked Benito more. But it all worked out in the end.
Overall an enjoyable romance.
-Politician Heroine.
-Quirky small town.
-Women empowerment.
-Well written and fun romance.
-Safe and recommended.
I received an advance review copy and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
Don’t get me wrong, this book made me feel so many emotional. In the prologue itself I was spitting mad on behalf of heroine. And then again in various parts of the book. It made me laugh and it made me cheer for some characters (I’m looking at you Anita).
I loved how charming La Musa was depicted in the story. The various characters and their quirks- I enjoyed it all.
To say Izzy’s journey was turbulent is understatement. But it also had a wonderful message- to never give up. Another highlight was Izzy stood firm for herself when it was needed. I liked hero Benito too.
I wish there was more character growth for Izzy. I also didn’t like that she was kinda rotating between Giac and Benito when she actually liked Benito more. But it all worked out in the end.
Overall an enjoyable romance.
-Politician Heroine.
-Quirky small town.
-Women empowerment.
-Well written and fun romance.
-Safe and recommended.
I received an advance review copy and I’m leaving this review voluntarily.
May 6, 2026
This story made me want to get on a plane and go Italy!! I could feel the scenery!! So good and I am not even big on the topic of politics but this didn’t feel overtaken by the topic.
I loved Izzy’s redemption story and how grumpy Benito was!! 😜 Their sneaking around was the best. I overall enjoyed the story and it kept me entertained completely! I look forward to more from this author!
I loved Izzy’s redemption story and how grumpy Benito was!! 😜 Their sneaking around was the best. I overall enjoyed the story and it kept me entertained completely! I look forward to more from this author!
December 2, 2025
**READ FOR WORK
Loved this one so much, more to come!!!
Loved this one so much, more to come!!!
March 24, 2026
A heartfelt thanks to NetGalley, Keeperton, Arndell, and Caitlin Alice Gilbert for the ALC of La Dolce Veto.
La Dolce Veto follows the story of Congresswoman Isabella Rhodes, whose career takes a turn for the worse when steamy text messages between her and political opponent Levi Cross are leaked just before the election. Izzy escapes to the charming Italian village of La Musa, where she stays at the Villa Farentino.
Izzy soon discovers that she will have to share the villa with Benito Farentino, the newly elected mayor who is trying to save his hometown, and does not trust outsiders.
What to expect
-Debut novel
-Only one bed
-Forced proximity
-Small Italian town
-Grumpy/sunshine
-Politics
-Banter and romance
The narration by Anthea Greco was perfect and brought the story to life. She used distinct character voices and accents that added so much depth while listening.
Izzy was such a strong and capable female lead. I really admired her resilience throughout the story. La Dolce Veto gave me Under the Tuscan Sun vibes (which I loved, especially with the nod to the movie).
The humor, banter, and romance were perfectly balanced, making it such an enjoyable read.
I still can’t believe this was a debut, it was so well done. I finished the audiobook in less than 24 hours. I loved Caitlin’s writing style and didn’t want the story to end, it was such a charming and delightful book!
La Dolce Veto follows the story of Congresswoman Isabella Rhodes, whose career takes a turn for the worse when steamy text messages between her and political opponent Levi Cross are leaked just before the election. Izzy escapes to the charming Italian village of La Musa, where she stays at the Villa Farentino.
Izzy soon discovers that she will have to share the villa with Benito Farentino, the newly elected mayor who is trying to save his hometown, and does not trust outsiders.
What to expect
-Debut novel
-Only one bed
-Forced proximity
-Small Italian town
-Grumpy/sunshine
-Politics
-Banter and romance
The narration by Anthea Greco was perfect and brought the story to life. She used distinct character voices and accents that added so much depth while listening.
Izzy was such a strong and capable female lead. I really admired her resilience throughout the story. La Dolce Veto gave me Under the Tuscan Sun vibes (which I loved, especially with the nod to the movie).
The humor, banter, and romance were perfectly balanced, making it such an enjoyable read.
I still can’t believe this was a debut, it was so well done. I finished the audiobook in less than 24 hours. I loved Caitlin’s writing style and didn’t want the story to end, it was such a charming and delightful book!
May 26, 2026
3.5/5
La Dolce Veto follows the story of Izzie, a US Congresswoman, whose political career ended after a scandal involving her opponent, decides to move to La Musa, a small town in Italy. While in Italy, she rents a room from Anita, the mother of Benito, the current mayor of La Musa. As she meets the residents of La Musa, she finds out that Benito's father, the former mayor of La Musa, wants to build a 5-star resort, a serious issue that affects the small business and residents of this small town.
Overall, the story had a lot of potential, I liked how Izzie and Benito's relationship was starting to develop, but it was difficult to feel their chemistry. Instead, I enjoyed reading more about the secondary characters, such as, Marisol, Anita and Vincenzo.
Thank you Keeperton Audiobooks & Arndell for providing this audiobook for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
La Dolce Veto follows the story of Izzie, a US Congresswoman, whose political career ended after a scandal involving her opponent, decides to move to La Musa, a small town in Italy. While in Italy, she rents a room from Anita, the mother of Benito, the current mayor of La Musa. As she meets the residents of La Musa, she finds out that Benito's father, the former mayor of La Musa, wants to build a 5-star resort, a serious issue that affects the small business and residents of this small town.
Overall, the story had a lot of potential, I liked how Izzie and Benito's relationship was starting to develop, but it was difficult to feel their chemistry. Instead, I enjoyed reading more about the secondary characters, such as, Marisol, Anita and Vincenzo.
Thank you Keeperton Audiobooks & Arndell for providing this audiobook for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
April 4, 2026
I loved this one and still shocked it was a debut! I’m not one who loves political romances but this was done right! The plot, the Italian summer feels, Benito, and all of the side characters, had me wanting to fly through this book in one sitting! I liked that Izzy didn’t want to change the small town she loved so much, but was helping others find the beauty she saw in it. I loved Benito as the MMC! He was kind and gentle but still had a bit of grumpy to him. Even though it was a slow burn (IMO), I still really enjoyed this one!
April 9, 2026
I devoured this so quick!
A woman who struggles with the balance of career and love, and in order to step back she moves to Italy. The entire book is so atmospheric, and I felt like I was there with these characters. And the ROMANCE that blossoms in this (slow burn) was absolute perfection.
If you need a bingeable summer romance-I would highly recommend!
A woman who struggles with the balance of career and love, and in order to step back she moves to Italy. The entire book is so atmospheric, and I felt like I was there with these characters. And the ROMANCE that blossoms in this (slow burn) was absolute perfection.
If you need a bingeable summer romance-I would highly recommend!
April 21, 2026
La Dolce Veto is such a fun debut with a strong heroine and the most gorgeous Italian setting. I loved that Izzy is a US Congresswoman it made the story relatable, and I was so invested in her journey.
This book show the reality of being a woman in politics the misogyny, the pressure, the constant scrutiny. Add in Benito family drama, small town tension, and I was completely hooked.
The audiobook narration was fantastic even that it was just one narrator, but she gave every character so much personality, it made listening such a joy.
And the way the author writes about Italy… the villages, the food, the charm I just wanted to be there.
This was such an enjoyable, fast paced read. I can’t wait to see what this author writes next!
Huge thanks to Arndell and Keeperton for sending me the ARC and ALC before release day!
This book show the reality of being a woman in politics the misogyny, the pressure, the constant scrutiny. Add in Benito family drama, small town tension, and I was completely hooked.
The audiobook narration was fantastic even that it was just one narrator, but she gave every character so much personality, it made listening such a joy.
And the way the author writes about Italy… the villages, the food, the charm I just wanted to be there.
This was such an enjoyable, fast paced read. I can’t wait to see what this author writes next!
Huge thanks to Arndell and Keeperton for sending me the ARC and ALC before release day!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 22, 2026
****Many thanks to Netgalley, and Keeperton for an advanced eArc in exchange for my honest opinion****
This is one of those books where I really wish Goodreads had a .25, .5 and .75 rating system like Storygraph does. This is a sold 3.5.
Well after finishing this, I sort of wish I had gotten more romantic moments with Benito and Izzy. I would definitely recommend if you want a sweet, easy going page turner more about life (work).
Things I loved about Izzy, she was a go getter from the start and I really enjoy reading about FMC's that know exactly what they want out of life. She had the drive and tough skin needed to be a politician. She stood up for what she believed in and I've got to respect it, she truly believed she was making the world a better place. I also love that Izzy is in her 30's we love a FMC above the age of 22-25!
Benito was a great MMC. I thought he had a lot of really sweet moments with Izzy. I do like how at the start they both really did not like one another and how that evolved to friendship and then to love. The love he also has for his family was *chefs kiss*. I could picture the easy bantering between Benito, Anita and Lucia so easily surrounded by a laughing Vicenzo, with the smell of freshly made pasta and grated parmesan cheese.
One of my favorite moments between Benito and Izzy was them running through the rain and stopping and just laughing and living the moment, you can get warm later!
I do wish I had gotten more descriptions of Italy though. Who knows if I could ever make it there in reality so I need to be SOLD on the descriptions of Italy. I want to know how the air tasted, I want to know more about the architecture, how the town is set up. Are there flowers everywhere? Can we see the sea? I Just think a little TLC would have perhaps moved this up to a solid 4 star.
The pill I simply cannot swallow is how a woman would choose LA over Italy, I'm still reeling from that decision. Overall a quick easy read, very low spice which was a pleasant surprise!
This is one of those books where I really wish Goodreads had a .25, .5 and .75 rating system like Storygraph does. This is a sold 3.5.
Well after finishing this, I sort of wish I had gotten more romantic moments with Benito and Izzy. I would definitely recommend if you want a sweet, easy going page turner more about life (work).
Things I loved about Izzy, she was a go getter from the start and I really enjoy reading about FMC's that know exactly what they want out of life. She had the drive and tough skin needed to be a politician. She stood up for what she believed in and I've got to respect it, she truly believed she was making the world a better place. I also love that Izzy is in her 30's we love a FMC above the age of 22-25!
Benito was a great MMC. I thought he had a lot of really sweet moments with Izzy. I do like how at the start they both really did not like one another and how that evolved to friendship and then to love. The love he also has for his family was *chefs kiss*. I could picture the easy bantering between Benito, Anita and Lucia so easily surrounded by a laughing Vicenzo, with the smell of freshly made pasta and grated parmesan cheese.
One of my favorite moments between Benito and Izzy was them running through the rain and stopping and just laughing and living the moment, you can get warm later!
I do wish I had gotten more descriptions of Italy though. Who knows if I could ever make it there in reality so I need to be SOLD on the descriptions of Italy. I want to know how the air tasted, I want to know more about the architecture, how the town is set up. Are there flowers everywhere? Can we see the sea? I Just think a little TLC would have perhaps moved this up to a solid 4 star.
The pill I simply cannot swallow is how a woman would choose LA over Italy, I'm still reeling from that decision. Overall a quick easy read, very low spice which was a pleasant surprise!
May 24, 2026
4🌟 for story, 4🌟 for audio
Story:
This is a fun and entertaining start over story of a woman working in politics that needs to get away after work life and personal life cross too much. She moves to Italy where she had spent some time years prior. If you're looking for a great summer read that has more to the plot than just romance, I definitely recommend this one.
I absolutely loved the Italian summer setting. The small town feel with great side characters really brought enjoyment to this story. Every character was unique and brought a different aspect to the story. I actually liked that the main characters both worked in politics and wanted to do better by people more than I thought I would. The political aspect added more to the story in a great way.
Grumpy/sunshine dynamic, but in an organic way. The plot has just as much of her beginning anew story as it was the romance between them, which i thought was great. I really liked the balance.
There are touches of Under the Tuscan Sun and Eat, Pray, Love without being a duplicate in anyway. Just enough to make me want reread some old goodies.
I just realized this was a debut novel by this author, I will definitely be keeping an eye for their next book!
Audio:
Anthea Greco did a great job bringing this story to life through their narration. Its was easy to listen to while doing other tasks. Feelings came through well and voice changes per character was well done.
Thanks to Keeperton Audiobooks and Alice Gilbert for sending for me an Alc to review.
Story:
This is a fun and entertaining start over story of a woman working in politics that needs to get away after work life and personal life cross too much. She moves to Italy where she had spent some time years prior. If you're looking for a great summer read that has more to the plot than just romance, I definitely recommend this one.
I absolutely loved the Italian summer setting. The small town feel with great side characters really brought enjoyment to this story. Every character was unique and brought a different aspect to the story. I actually liked that the main characters both worked in politics and wanted to do better by people more than I thought I would. The political aspect added more to the story in a great way.
Grumpy/sunshine dynamic, but in an organic way. The plot has just as much of her beginning anew story as it was the romance between them, which i thought was great. I really liked the balance.
There are touches of Under the Tuscan Sun and Eat, Pray, Love without being a duplicate in anyway. Just enough to make me want reread some old goodies.
I just realized this was a debut novel by this author, I will definitely be keeping an eye for their next book!
Audio:
Anthea Greco did a great job bringing this story to life through their narration. Its was easy to listen to while doing other tasks. Feelings came through well and voice changes per character was well done.
Thanks to Keeperton Audiobooks and Alice Gilbert for sending for me an Alc to review.
March 13, 2026
This was such a fun read / listen. I received an ARC and an ALC (thank you to Keeperton / Arndell and NetGalley) and was able to do an immersive read. I’ll start with praise for the audiobook - Anthea Greco is one of my favorites and she does an amazing job. I love her voice and she did amazing distinguishing between the various characters / accents. If you’re a fan of audiobooks - this is a good one to out on your list!
This was such a fun spin on the whole “American woman goes to European country to find herself” tale. I now want to run away to Italy and drink all the wine and eat all the pasta. The author really sells the setting. Our FMC Izzy is trying to reset after a tough and very public “scandal.” She rents a room from a woman and unknowingly moves in with the grumpy (and handsome) mayor of the town.
I enjoyed the plot of the book and the romance. This is one of the rare exceptions where a third act break up made sense. I wasn’t sure how we would wrap everything up with a HEA, but I was satisfied by the ending. I did find myself getting frustrated with the FMC towards the end of the story, but she came around.
This is an awesome debut novel and I would definitely recommend!
This was such a fun spin on the whole “American woman goes to European country to find herself” tale. I now want to run away to Italy and drink all the wine and eat all the pasta. The author really sells the setting. Our FMC Izzy is trying to reset after a tough and very public “scandal.” She rents a room from a woman and unknowingly moves in with the grumpy (and handsome) mayor of the town.
I enjoyed the plot of the book and the romance. This is one of the rare exceptions where a third act break up made sense. I wasn’t sure how we would wrap everything up with a HEA, but I was satisfied by the ending. I did find myself getting frustrated with the FMC towards the end of the story, but she came around.
This is an awesome debut novel and I would definitely recommend!
March 24, 2026
4.5⭐️ rounded up cause I had ABSOLUTELY THE BEST TIME WITH THIS BOOK AND THE AUDIOBOOK!!!
I am a bit biased cause I love good Italian setting, small Italian town shenanigans and lines either in Italian or with Italian accent (the audiobook is MAGNIFICENT when it comes to all the accents!!!). Add the politics part and some family drama that is not overly dramatic but just the perfect amount of - I SIMPLY HAD THE BEST TIME WITH THIS STORY.
Congress woman (ex congress woman?) Izzy escapes the States after “a sex scandal with barely any sex” and goes to a little town in Umbria, Italy. She was there for a study abroad program and plans to settle there, regroup and find a job as a florist (in a town that doesn’t even have a flower shop). The place she rented turns out to be - Villa Florentino - happens to be mayor’s house. Enter the mayor - Benito. The story is packed with just perfect Italian vibes!
There is some family drama as well as political one.
Overall this book was highly entertaining. I loved the politics aspect, it kept the story interesting, especially mixed with Benito’s family “drama”.
Whole book is written in Izzy’s POV with 1st person narration.
It’s little to no spice romance. It’s def not open door, more like “fade to black” one.
While the romance is very much a part of the plot it’s not main-main focus so just a heads up if you’re expecting extremely romantic read.
The audiobook definitely elevated my reading experience. Audio performance is amazing, and all the accents, especially Italian ones gave very true and strong Italian setting vibes.
Audio duration: ~10h
Listening speed: 2x
Narrator: Anthea Greco (I’m adding her to my list of fav narrators!)
Go for it if you want a good time, highly entertaining, easy read that will make you smile.
I have a lot of highlights and at least half of them is for lines that made me smile.
Check out my reading activity for some of the quotes ;)
Also: let’s take a moment to appreciate the cover and the title!!!
I am a bit biased cause I love good Italian setting, small Italian town shenanigans and lines either in Italian or with Italian accent (the audiobook is MAGNIFICENT when it comes to all the accents!!!). Add the politics part and some family drama that is not overly dramatic but just the perfect amount of - I SIMPLY HAD THE BEST TIME WITH THIS STORY.
Congress woman (ex congress woman?) Izzy escapes the States after “a sex scandal with barely any sex” and goes to a little town in Umbria, Italy. She was there for a study abroad program and plans to settle there, regroup and find a job as a florist (in a town that doesn’t even have a flower shop). The place she rented turns out to be - Villa Florentino - happens to be mayor’s house. Enter the mayor - Benito. The story is packed with just perfect Italian vibes!
There is some family drama as well as political one.
Overall this book was highly entertaining. I loved the politics aspect, it kept the story interesting, especially mixed with Benito’s family “drama”.
Whole book is written in Izzy’s POV with 1st person narration.
It’s little to no spice romance. It’s def not open door, more like “fade to black” one.
While the romance is very much a part of the plot it’s not main-main focus so just a heads up if you’re expecting extremely romantic read.
The audiobook definitely elevated my reading experience. Audio performance is amazing, and all the accents, especially Italian ones gave very true and strong Italian setting vibes.
Audio duration: ~10h
Listening speed: 2x
Narrator: Anthea Greco (I’m adding her to my list of fav narrators!)
Go for it if you want a good time, highly entertaining, easy read that will make you smile.
I have a lot of highlights and at least half of them is for lines that made me smile.
Check out my reading activity for some of the quotes ;)
Also: let’s take a moment to appreciate the cover and the title!!!
April 25, 2026
Format: 🎧
Spice: 🌶️
Izzy give very strong female politician vibes, channeling the feminist vibes of someone like AOC. Levi was a dirt trash can full of 💩, and just when you think it’s not possible to hate him more we see him AGAIN and nope - we hate him more.
The story was very reminiscent of films like Under the Tuscan Sun (a fact that is actually brought up in the book itself), but with a fun modern twist. I really enjoyed the Italian backdrop, and I can definitely say I’ll be having Italian food tonight because the descriptions made me hangry af 😂
The Audio: single narration, Anthea Greco. Anthea did an amazing job! Her tone and pace was really engaging and I just believed she was a disgraced US Congresswoman seeking her American Italian getaway. She’ll definitely be on my radar for future audiobook picks!
Notable tropes and themes —
☀️ Grumpy MMC
🗳️ Leaked Intimate Texts
☀️ US Political drama
🗳️ Forced Proximity
☀️ Career Redemption
🗳️ Strong Woman in a Male-dominated field
☀️ Slow burn romance
🗳️ Italian small-town countryside setting
☀️ Found Family
🗳️ Vacation Romance
☀️ One Bed
I received this ALC from Keeperton Audiobooks | Arndell as an opportunity to listen and give my honest review.
Spice: 🌶️
Izzy give very strong female politician vibes, channeling the feminist vibes of someone like AOC. Levi was a dirt trash can full of 💩, and just when you think it’s not possible to hate him more we see him AGAIN and nope - we hate him more.
The story was very reminiscent of films like Under the Tuscan Sun (a fact that is actually brought up in the book itself), but with a fun modern twist. I really enjoyed the Italian backdrop, and I can definitely say I’ll be having Italian food tonight because the descriptions made me hangry af 😂
The Audio: single narration, Anthea Greco. Anthea did an amazing job! Her tone and pace was really engaging and I just believed she was a disgraced US Congresswoman seeking her American Italian getaway. She’ll definitely be on my radar for future audiobook picks!
Notable tropes and themes —
☀️ Grumpy MMC
🗳️ Leaked Intimate Texts
☀️ US Political drama
🗳️ Forced Proximity
☀️ Career Redemption
🗳️ Strong Woman in a Male-dominated field
☀️ Slow burn romance
🗳️ Italian small-town countryside setting
☀️ Found Family
🗳️ Vacation Romance
☀️ One Bed
I received this ALC from Keeperton Audiobooks | Arndell as an opportunity to listen and give my honest review.
March 7, 2026
3.75⭐, 2🌶️
Okay first of all - a moment for Caitlin, because this was such a unique debut release for her! This was such a fun book that plays off the jokes of so many famous “eat, pray, love” stories when a woman hits peak stress in life and goes to explore abroad. Isabella is a politician that just lost her election and escapes to a small town in Italy to recharge. Of course the home she is staying in has a HOT, GRUMPY, MAYOR, for a next “door” neighbor.
I loved that this book fit the political climate - how Isa is a politician dealing with so much misogyny is so apt. And then just the little bits of harassment throughout the book had my feminism raging. Then Benito dealing with his POS dad (and his ex, sorry she was not a positive character/ girls girl). so much drama in this book which definitely had me being like “I am NOT stopping this audiobook. What other household chores do I need to do?!”
💛Forced Proximity
🧡Grumpy x Sunshine
🇮🇹 Cozy Italian Small Town
🧡 Political Romance
💛New Beginning
So the romance for this book wasn’t my favorite - so much was going on for Isabella and Benito. Even how this book ended, I was a bit hesitant because it just felt like they both were in a weird space of still needing to find their happiest self (maybe a second book would help me?) Isabella is back in public office and Benito is finding his place in the world and I wanted more of them together, happy, and stable.
Thank you NetGalley and Keeperton/ Arndell Books for an eARC/ ALC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Okay first of all - a moment for Caitlin, because this was such a unique debut release for her! This was such a fun book that plays off the jokes of so many famous “eat, pray, love” stories when a woman hits peak stress in life and goes to explore abroad. Isabella is a politician that just lost her election and escapes to a small town in Italy to recharge. Of course the home she is staying in has a HOT, GRUMPY, MAYOR, for a next “door” neighbor.
I loved that this book fit the political climate - how Isa is a politician dealing with so much misogyny is so apt. And then just the little bits of harassment throughout the book had my feminism raging. Then Benito dealing with his POS dad (and his ex, sorry she was not a positive character/ girls girl). so much drama in this book which definitely had me being like “I am NOT stopping this audiobook. What other household chores do I need to do?!”
💛Forced Proximity
🧡Grumpy x Sunshine
🇮🇹 Cozy Italian Small Town
🧡 Political Romance
💛New Beginning
So the romance for this book wasn’t my favorite - so much was going on for Isabella and Benito. Even how this book ended, I was a bit hesitant because it just felt like they both were in a weird space of still needing to find their happiest self (maybe a second book would help me?) Isabella is back in public office and Benito is finding his place in the world and I wanted more of them together, happy, and stable.
Thank you NetGalley and Keeperton/ Arndell Books for an eARC/ ALC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
March 19, 2026
Ummmm, YES A MILLION TIMES YESSSS!!
I loved this book sooo much, I couldn’t stop listening/reading.
It was so fun to read it brought me lots of laughs and a little bit of heartache. Definitely a fun time and so darn good.
Izzy and Benito are the it couple right now, I loved his gruff side his soft side and HIS JEALOUS SIDE!!!
Gahhh, and Izzy powerful and strong. But she’s still human.
I loved everything about this, from the meeting, to the drama, to the heartaches. It brought me joy that Izzy came out on top. She deserves it.
This book is told in only the FMC POV so there’s that, but when it is told this good, you don’t even miss the MMC POV. Do I wish I did know Benito’s thoughts? Of course the author did an amazing job with descriptions and feeling. 5 starts to the story 5stars to the narration!
This is the book you want to read this summer. So add to your TBRs
I loved this book sooo much, I couldn’t stop listening/reading.
It was so fun to read it brought me lots of laughs and a little bit of heartache. Definitely a fun time and so darn good.
Izzy and Benito are the it couple right now, I loved his gruff side his soft side and HIS JEALOUS SIDE!!!
Gahhh, and Izzy powerful and strong. But she’s still human.
I loved everything about this, from the meeting, to the drama, to the heartaches. It brought me joy that Izzy came out on top. She deserves it.
This book is told in only the FMC POV so there’s that, but when it is told this good, you don’t even miss the MMC POV. Do I wish I did know Benito’s thoughts? Of course the author did an amazing job with descriptions and feeling. 5 starts to the story 5stars to the narration!
This is the book you want to read this summer. So add to your TBRs
March 17, 2026
I did an immersive read for this and it was so much fun. It truly felt like one of those movies when the FMC goes to a small town in Italy and ends up falling in love with the town and a REALLY hot Italian man. I loved Izzy and her whole chaotic journey of self discovery. There was closed door spice, so if you’re not into graphic scenes, this is definitely the book for you! Thank you keeperton/arndell and the author for the arc!
April 4, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Keeperton for the ARC!
La Dolce Veto is a sweet and funny romance set in exotic Italy. I liked the enemies to lovers trope and how our characters slowly opened up to each other. The FMC was smart and ambitious and the sunshine in the story whereas the MMC was a grumpy mayor. A little family drama, some trauma from the past and this was an enjoyable romance.
La Dolce Veto is a sweet and funny romance set in exotic Italy. I liked the enemies to lovers trope and how our characters slowly opened up to each other. The FMC was smart and ambitious and the sunshine in the story whereas the MMC was a grumpy mayor. A little family drama, some trauma from the past and this was an enjoyable romance.
April 21, 2026
I received an ARC of La Dolce Veto from Keeperton and NetGalley. This book was so enjoyable to read! Isabella, the fmc, career dives and she jets off to a small town in Italy to recover, and meets some local characters including the grumpy mmc. It’s set in a gorgeous Italian town, that makes you want to jet off to visit Italy! If you like a grumpy mmc and sunshine fmc, forced proximity, and small town romances, this could be for you! It’s combined with some gorgeous Italian small town charm making this a fabulous read.
Thanks to Keeperton and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC, I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
#LaDolceVeto #NetGalley.
Thanks to Keeperton and NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC, I thoroughly enjoyed this book!
#LaDolceVeto #NetGalley.
May 2, 2026
3.5☆
US Congresswoman Izzy Rhodes is on the path to take the political world by storm when steamy text messages between her and political opponent Levi are leaked (conveniently before the election). Disgraced and defeated, she escapes to the charming little village of La Musa, Italy with the hopes to rebuild her life... but of course, there’s also a handsome broody local mayor named Benito living under the same roof.
With vibes reminiscent of 𝘜𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘛𝘶𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘚𝘶𝘯, 𝗟𝗮 𝗗𝗼𝗹𝗰𝗲 𝗩𝗲𝘁𝗼 is a bold and fun contemporary romance debut. Caitlin Gilbert does an impeccable job balancing banter with romance. I was skeptical of the political theme within romance, but it worked well. Izzy is an ambitious FMC with a lot of drive and just as much heart which makes her easy to root for and entirely relatable. The slow-burn romance between her and Benito is sweet, and the array of characters within La Musa are every bit as delightful.
From politics to pasta, from pizza to prosecco, this was easy to devour, and I adored my time spent in La Musa. For lovers of grumpy x sunshine, forced proximity, small town vibes, Italian settings, and stories of self-discovery and starting over, don’t miss this one!
🎙️ Anthea Greco does an absolutely remarkable job with the narration. She gives solid distinction between characters. Her accents add depth and bring the culture and Italian setting to life. This was a joy to the ears!
✨ Thank you to Keeperton Audio & Net Galley for this ALC. [𝘗𝘶𝘣 𝘥𝘢𝘵𝘦: 4•14•2026]
US Congresswoman Izzy Rhodes is on the path to take the political world by storm when steamy text messages between her and political opponent Levi are leaked (conveniently before the election). Disgraced and defeated, she escapes to the charming little village of La Musa, Italy with the hopes to rebuild her life... but of course, there’s also a handsome broody local mayor named Benito living under the same roof.
With vibes reminiscent of 𝘜𝘯𝘥𝘦𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘛𝘶𝘴𝘤𝘢𝘯 𝘚𝘶𝘯, 𝗟𝗮 𝗗𝗼𝗹𝗰𝗲 𝗩𝗲𝘁𝗼 is a bold and fun contemporary romance debut. Caitlin Gilbert does an impeccable job balancing banter with romance. I was skeptical of the political theme within romance, but it worked well. Izzy is an ambitious FMC with a lot of drive and just as much heart which makes her easy to root for and entirely relatable. The slow-burn romance between her and Benito is sweet, and the array of characters within La Musa are every bit as delightful.
From politics to pasta, from pizza to prosecco, this was easy to devour, and I adored my time spent in La Musa. For lovers of grumpy x sunshine, forced proximity, small town vibes, Italian settings, and stories of self-discovery and starting over, don’t miss this one!
🎙️ Anthea Greco does an absolutely remarkable job with the narration. She gives solid distinction between characters. Her accents add depth and bring the culture and Italian setting to life. This was a joy to the ears!
✨ Thank you to Keeperton Audio & Net Galley for this ALC. [𝘗𝘶𝘣 𝘥𝘢𝘵𝘦: 4•14•2026]
March 30, 2026
✨ I enjoy this story a lot! I love stories where the MFC travels to a different place to scape her past and there she finds the hottie that will help her overcome her past. This is where Benito comes in he was definitely and upgrade for Izzy who wouldn’t want a tall black hair sexy Italian with a little bit of bad attitude 😆
The romance was cute and swooning though it did gave me a little jump scare at the end. But what I love the most was Izzy self discovery and how she was able to overcome her insecurities and continue her dreams. And that is ok to start over and not let your fears consume you.
The narration was fun and engaging.
💕Thanks to Keeperton for the gifted ALC
The romance was cute and swooning though it did gave me a little jump scare at the end. But what I love the most was Izzy self discovery and how she was able to overcome her insecurities and continue her dreams. And that is ok to start over and not let your fears consume you.
The narration was fun and engaging.
💕Thanks to Keeperton for the gifted ALC
March 26, 2026
The fact that this is a debut?? Absolutely amazing. I jumped between the ebook and the audiobook, and it is a prefect read for Spring / Summer! This plot is so unlike anything I've read and I ate it up.
You have Isabella Rhodes, a rising star, US congresswoman, who gets involved in a scandal and then soon after, loses her election. With her tail between her legs, and a desperate need to escape US media, she runs to a tiny town in Italy, one she hasn't been to since she was a student studying abroad. There, she can finally breathe and live a quiet life of anonymity. Until she meets her bitter housemate, Benito, who apparently can't stand her and is the tiny town's mayor (?). No matter how hard she tries, she can't escape politics or her passion for public service and is thrown into plans on how to help the town and it's residents succeed. And becomes smitten with the mayor along the way...
I really wasn't sure how I was going to like this one, but I was beyond surprised in the best way. I adored this book so much and the audio was incredible! I loved the pacing, the drama, the tension between main characters- everything. I couldn't put it down. And, the entire time I was reading, I was internally planning my next Italy visit- this story makes daydreaming about adventuring around the country inevitable.
If this is her first go at writing a stellar romance novel, I'm very excited to see what Caitlin comes up with next!
Read if you like:
- roommates / forced proximity
- broody mmc
- enemies to lovers
- political (touch of celebrity) romance
- secret relationship
- only one bed
- small, Italian town setting
Thank you so much to Arndell and the author for an early copy!
You have Isabella Rhodes, a rising star, US congresswoman, who gets involved in a scandal and then soon after, loses her election. With her tail between her legs, and a desperate need to escape US media, she runs to a tiny town in Italy, one she hasn't been to since she was a student studying abroad. There, she can finally breathe and live a quiet life of anonymity. Until she meets her bitter housemate, Benito, who apparently can't stand her and is the tiny town's mayor (?). No matter how hard she tries, she can't escape politics or her passion for public service and is thrown into plans on how to help the town and it's residents succeed. And becomes smitten with the mayor along the way...
I really wasn't sure how I was going to like this one, but I was beyond surprised in the best way. I adored this book so much and the audio was incredible! I loved the pacing, the drama, the tension between main characters- everything. I couldn't put it down. And, the entire time I was reading, I was internally planning my next Italy visit- this story makes daydreaming about adventuring around the country inevitable.
If this is her first go at writing a stellar romance novel, I'm very excited to see what Caitlin comes up with next!
Read if you like:
- roommates / forced proximity
- broody mmc
- enemies to lovers
- political (touch of celebrity) romance
- secret relationship
- only one bed
- small, Italian town setting
Thank you so much to Arndell and the author for an early copy!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Where to start with this review? Firstly this is absolutely a 5 star read for me. From the very first sentence I knew this was a top read!! The story, the world building just incredible.
I love the characters, they had so much charm to them. I love the story of how she's a woman in Congress among all the men and she was making a difference. I loved how, when it ended she didnt give up ,she chose herself and found love in a country she loved in college. I love how strong all the women that was in this book, and hiw they overcame injustice. #Benizzy love it!! Now I want to see Italy for myself lol
Also the audiobook was fire 🔥 It kept me glued to the book
Thank you to keeperton/arndell for allowing to read/listen and review and net-galley
I love the characters, they had so much charm to them. I love the story of how she's a woman in Congress among all the men and she was making a difference. I loved how, when it ended she didnt give up ,she chose herself and found love in a country she loved in college. I love how strong all the women that was in this book, and hiw they overcame injustice. #Benizzy love it!! Now I want to see Italy for myself lol
Also the audiobook was fire 🔥 It kept me glued to the book
Thank you to keeperton/arndell for allowing to read/listen and review and net-galley
April 7, 2026
Firstly, thank you to NetGalley, Keeperton, and Arndell for the ARC and audiobook 💛
La Dolce Veto explores scandal, healing, and finding the courage to love again. Izzy’s story felt so raw at the start especially the way she was treated, which honestly frustrated me but her journey in Italy gave her the space to grow, rebuild, and rediscover her purpose.
I loved the found family element and the character development throughout. Benito is peak grumpy energy and I ate that up.
This book pulled me right out of a reading slump and delivered such strong romcom vibes with a touch of realism. And honestly, Italy felt like a character in its own right 🇮🇹
This book is perfect for anyone who loves slow burn, forced proximity, and emotional, self-redemption arcs 🇮🇹💛🧡
La Dolce Veto explores scandal, healing, and finding the courage to love again. Izzy’s story felt so raw at the start especially the way she was treated, which honestly frustrated me but her journey in Italy gave her the space to grow, rebuild, and rediscover her purpose.
I loved the found family element and the character development throughout. Benito is peak grumpy energy and I ate that up.
This book pulled me right out of a reading slump and delivered such strong romcom vibes with a touch of realism. And honestly, Italy felt like a character in its own right 🇮🇹
This book is perfect for anyone who loves slow burn, forced proximity, and emotional, self-redemption arcs 🇮🇹💛🧡
April 16, 2026
So excited for this book!
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