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A Portrait of Emily Price
Art restorer Emily Price has never encountered anything she can’t fix—until she meets Ben, an Italian chef, who seems just right. But when Emily follows Ben home to Italy, she learns that his family is another matter . . .
Emily Price—fix-it girl extraordinaire and would-be artist—dreams of having a gallery show of her own. There is no time for distractions, especially not the ultimate distraction of falling in love.
But Chef Benito Vassallo’s relentless pursuit proves hard to resist. Visiting from Italy, Ben works to breathe new life into his aunt and uncle’s faded restaurant, Piccollo. Soon after their first meeting, he works to win Emily as well—inviting her into his world and into his heart.
Emily astonishes everyone when she accepts Ben’s proposal and follows him home. But instead of allowing the land, culture, and people of Monterello to transform her, Emily interferes with everyone and everything around her, alienating Ben’s tightly knit family. Only Ben’s father, Lucio, gives Emily the understanding she needs to lay down her guard. Soon, Emily’s life and art begin to blossom, and Italy’s beauty and rhythm take hold of her spirit.
Yet when she unearths long-buried family secrets, Emily wonders if she really fits into Ben’s world. Will the joys of Italy become just a memory, or will Emily share in the freedom and grace that her life with Ben has shown her are possible?
Emily Price—fix-it girl extraordinaire and would-be artist—dreams of having a gallery show of her own. There is no time for distractions, especially not the ultimate distraction of falling in love.
But Chef Benito Vassallo’s relentless pursuit proves hard to resist. Visiting from Italy, Ben works to breathe new life into his aunt and uncle’s faded restaurant, Piccollo. Soon after their first meeting, he works to win Emily as well—inviting her into his world and into his heart.
Emily astonishes everyone when she accepts Ben’s proposal and follows him home. But instead of allowing the land, culture, and people of Monterello to transform her, Emily interferes with everyone and everything around her, alienating Ben’s tightly knit family. Only Ben’s father, Lucio, gives Emily the understanding she needs to lay down her guard. Soon, Emily’s life and art begin to blossom, and Italy’s beauty and rhythm take hold of her spirit.
Yet when she unearths long-buried family secrets, Emily wonders if she really fits into Ben’s world. Will the joys of Italy become just a memory, or will Emily share in the freedom and grace that her life with Ben has shown her are possible?
368 pages, Paperback
First published November 1, 2016
151 people are currently reading
3945 people want to read
About the author
Katherine Reay
16 books3,703 followersKatherine Reay is the national bestselling and award-winning author of several novels and one full length non-fiction work. Her novels have been chosen as “One Book, One Community” reads and her writing has appeared in publications such as Criminal Reads, The Daily Beast, Redbook, and USA Today, among others. She holds a BA and MS from Northwestern University. She lives with her husband and too many dogs in Montana.
You can meet her at www.katherinereay.com or on Facebook: KatherineReayBooks, Twitter: @katherine_reay or Instagram: @katherinereay.
You can meet her at www.katherinereay.com or on Facebook: KatherineReayBooks, Twitter: @katherine_reay or Instagram: @katherinereay.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 652 reviews
February 10, 2017
A Portrait of Emily Price is Katherine Reay at her best. The tone and main character are reminiscent of Dear Mr. Knightley, the realistic situations akin to Lizzy and Jane, and the international aspect nods to The Bronte Plot. I was happy to see her return to the overall tone that she brought readers in Dear Mr. Knightley. Though they were very different characters, Emily’s first-person voice had me enchanted in the same way that I was with Sam. While the family situations were complex, there is a beautiful simplicity in the way that things occur. There was never a moment where I willingly put this book down, and I was always eager to pick it back up.
Usually whirlwind type romances don’t do much for me. I struggle with the realism and can’t get into the magic of it all. But from the moment that Emily met Ben, I felt like their biggest cheerleader! Yes, I was wondering how this was all going to play out, but I was rooting for them all the way. The author completely pulls it off – Ben is total book-boyfriend material. I did appreciate the realistic way that, despite how quickly their relationship moves, it was still a back and forth of misunderstanding and miscommunications, but also a sweet rendering of a new marriage. For readers that are not as big a fan of romance as myself, never fear – although this might be Reay’s most romantic story yet, Emily’s personal growth and a poignant family story take the prime spot in the narrative – and what a joy it is to watch it all unfold. The secondary characters are genuine and not to be overlooked. I particularly adored the relationship between Emily and Ben’s dad, Lucio – his character over all is one of the most gorgeous portrayals of fatherly love that I’ve read in a long while.
Several aspects just make this story – that of art and Italy – and food! Emily’s job as a restorer is fascinating to read about, and I also loved watching her grow in confidence at an artist as well. The setting of a small Italian village is so picturesque and full of charm – from the cozy library in the family home, to the cobblestone streets of the village, I fell in love with it all. Ben’s charm is never as beguiling as the times he is in the kitchen, although the story paints an accurate picture of the precarious nature of the restaurant business, but more importantly, how food, family and tradition intertwine. And while there might be times where metaphors are overused in stories, or perhaps too many are used at once, here the combination of art restoration and creation provide a gorgeous comparison for the events of the story.
My most favorite aspect of this story is how Emily proves to be a huge catalyst for change in Ben’s family, all the while trying to maintain a flimsy control of her new life in Italy and discover just what her roll is as a member of it. As Emily uncovers a painting in the local church, the secrets of Ben’s family are uncovered as well. While the faith elements are a lighter thread throughout the first part of the story, the latter half is suffused with a beautiful message of forgiveness and grace.
I am always so pleased to read a Katherine Reay novel, but even more so when it’s as poignant and lovingly crafted as A Portrait of Emily Price. Highly recommended.
Usually whirlwind type romances don’t do much for me. I struggle with the realism and can’t get into the magic of it all. But from the moment that Emily met Ben, I felt like their biggest cheerleader! Yes, I was wondering how this was all going to play out, but I was rooting for them all the way. The author completely pulls it off – Ben is total book-boyfriend material. I did appreciate the realistic way that, despite how quickly their relationship moves, it was still a back and forth of misunderstanding and miscommunications, but also a sweet rendering of a new marriage. For readers that are not as big a fan of romance as myself, never fear – although this might be Reay’s most romantic story yet, Emily’s personal growth and a poignant family story take the prime spot in the narrative – and what a joy it is to watch it all unfold. The secondary characters are genuine and not to be overlooked. I particularly adored the relationship between Emily and Ben’s dad, Lucio – his character over all is one of the most gorgeous portrayals of fatherly love that I’ve read in a long while.
Several aspects just make this story – that of art and Italy – and food! Emily’s job as a restorer is fascinating to read about, and I also loved watching her grow in confidence at an artist as well. The setting of a small Italian village is so picturesque and full of charm – from the cozy library in the family home, to the cobblestone streets of the village, I fell in love with it all. Ben’s charm is never as beguiling as the times he is in the kitchen, although the story paints an accurate picture of the precarious nature of the restaurant business, but more importantly, how food, family and tradition intertwine. And while there might be times where metaphors are overused in stories, or perhaps too many are used at once, here the combination of art restoration and creation provide a gorgeous comparison for the events of the story.
My most favorite aspect of this story is how Emily proves to be a huge catalyst for change in Ben’s family, all the while trying to maintain a flimsy control of her new life in Italy and discover just what her roll is as a member of it. As Emily uncovers a painting in the local church, the secrets of Ben’s family are uncovered as well. While the faith elements are a lighter thread throughout the first part of the story, the latter half is suffused with a beautiful message of forgiveness and grace.
I am always so pleased to read a Katherine Reay novel, but even more so when it’s as poignant and lovingly crafted as A Portrait of Emily Price. Highly recommended.
October 3, 2018
Some books are good books, but some books touch your heart in a way your brain can't even comprehend or quantify. A Portrait of Emily Price did that for me. My sister-in-law, who recommended it to me, asked me why I liked it, and I told her I didn't know. I still don't know. All I know is that this achingly beautiful, deeply profound, and yet so sweetly simplistic book touched my heart and changed my perspective in a way that only a very few pieces of fiction have ever done.
I have to say, I was quite skeptical when this book started out with an "insta-love" relationship and whirlwind marriage (the characters had only known each other for a week). I am glad I stuck with it though. These characters ended up being far more complex than I imagined. Emily is just such a *real* character, and I could relate to her on so many levels. Ben was such a sweetheart, and the entire cast of characters were all so unique, colorful, and endearing.
There are so many elements to this book that just made it all the richer to me. Italy - the culture, the food, the people, and art, to name a few. (I am both Italian and an artist.) The storyline, while it felt long to me at times, was incredibly well-thought-out and heartwarming with just the right amount of mystery to keep you guessing. The romance was sweet and, while not really my style as I mentioned earlier, it was perfectly clean. The themes of Christianity, while very back seat, were still very well done. I actually appreciated how it wasn't overtly "preachy" and giving you all the answers, but rather made you think more deeply.
Reay's writing style is absolutely beautiful. Profound, yet simplistic. Poetic, but not overly flowery. The author captures the pure essence of humanity in a stunningly beautiful way.
All in all, A Portrait of Emily Price is an engaging and delightful book that I highly recommend!
CONTENT NOTE: Recommended for ages 16+
I have to say, I was quite skeptical when this book started out with an "insta-love" relationship and whirlwind marriage (the characters had only known each other for a week). I am glad I stuck with it though. These characters ended up being far more complex than I imagined. Emily is just such a *real* character, and I could relate to her on so many levels. Ben was such a sweetheart, and the entire cast of characters were all so unique, colorful, and endearing.
There are so many elements to this book that just made it all the richer to me. Italy - the culture, the food, the people, and art, to name a few. (I am both Italian and an artist.) The storyline, while it felt long to me at times, was incredibly well-thought-out and heartwarming with just the right amount of mystery to keep you guessing. The romance was sweet and, while not really my style as I mentioned earlier, it was perfectly clean. The themes of Christianity, while very back seat, were still very well done. I actually appreciated how it wasn't overtly "preachy" and giving you all the answers, but rather made you think more deeply.
Reay's writing style is absolutely beautiful. Profound, yet simplistic. Poetic, but not overly flowery. The author captures the pure essence of humanity in a stunningly beautiful way.
All in all, A Portrait of Emily Price is an engaging and delightful book that I highly recommend!
CONTENT NOTE: Recommended for ages 16+
June 23, 2025
Since I read Dear Mr Knightley I thought I would read my 2nd favorite book my Katherine Reay, A Portrait of Emily Price. It is still a 5 star read but I think I might dislike it more this time around. It didn't give me that wonderful feels that I had when I read this book before. I still like Emily and Ben budding romance, but it did go on about her profession a little bit to much. This book will always have a place in my heart, it sometime things change when rereading it. I definitely would recommend Katherine Reay contemporaries. She really needs to go back to that genre where she excels!!
February 8, 2017
Some books I devour, some books I savor. This is an absolutely lovely book to savor. It took me a few days to read it because I was feeling every word. The writing flows with a beautiful cadence that was soothing even with some of the drama and heartache the characters were experiencing. I found that the two settings of Atlanta and Italy, the descriptions of Ben's Italian cooking, and the details of Emily's art restoration and painting fascinated me and brought a unique vibe of contrasts that complemented each other and created metaphors within the story. They especially spoke to the creative side of me and I connected with those parts of the book just as much as with the characters, if not more so. Reading this book felt like a therapeutic experience!
Emily serves as a catalyst for change in the dynamics of Ben's family and provides a way for secrets to be revealed. By coming to light, repressed emotions are released and while sometimes painful, it allows healing to take place. Simultaneously her own family dysfunction undergoes a transition and the uncertainty all around her takes a toll on her confidence and stability, but also releases her from the need to be in control. I loved how her relationships affected her art and ability to reach another level.
I have to say that I love that the level of romance increased in this book from the author's last one. Ben is the consummate charming Italian heartthrob, but it was pointed out that unlike his brother, he was unaware of his appeal. Which made him all the more appealing, of course ;) The genuine connection between Emily and Ben was a pleasure to read, especially since it was so unexpected for both of them. The focus shifts when Emily meets and becomes involved with his family, but my interest never waned since the author takes flawed characters that are raw and real, and shares the emotional and introspective journey of their life-changing experiences.
This is not a book to miss! Highly recommend!!!
(I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher; all opinions in this review are my own)
Emily serves as a catalyst for change in the dynamics of Ben's family and provides a way for secrets to be revealed. By coming to light, repressed emotions are released and while sometimes painful, it allows healing to take place. Simultaneously her own family dysfunction undergoes a transition and the uncertainty all around her takes a toll on her confidence and stability, but also releases her from the need to be in control. I loved how her relationships affected her art and ability to reach another level.
I have to say that I love that the level of romance increased in this book from the author's last one. Ben is the consummate charming Italian heartthrob, but it was pointed out that unlike his brother, he was unaware of his appeal. Which made him all the more appealing, of course ;) The genuine connection between Emily and Ben was a pleasure to read, especially since it was so unexpected for both of them. The focus shifts when Emily meets and becomes involved with his family, but my interest never waned since the author takes flawed characters that are raw and real, and shares the emotional and introspective journey of their life-changing experiences.
This is not a book to miss! Highly recommend!!!
(I was provided a copy of this book by the publisher; all opinions in this review are my own)
December 6, 2016
Just because something is broken doesn’t mean it’s not beautiful. Emily Price is an art restorer, and a very talented one, at that. If something is broken, Emily is going to do everything in her power not only to fix it, but to make it even more beautiful than it was before, because fixing things is just what she does. But when Emily falls in love and extends that “I can fix it!” attitude to include her husband’s Italian family, chaos ensues.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, more so than any of Reay’s books since her first, Dear Mr. Knightley. It was sweet and uplifting and just the mental palette cleanser I needed after last month’s heavier, darker reading. Reay writes Christian romantic fiction with large doses of humor and classic literary references. Her second and third novels both fell kind of flat for me, but I really loved Dear Mr. Knightley and so decided to give her newest book a try. I’m glad I did. Emily was realistically flawed without being unlikeable, and her Italian in-laws were a beautiful mess. I loved Ben so much; he reminded me of my husband. In fact, almost every character in the book reminded me of a family member or close friend, or in one case a friend’s mother.
And the art in this book. Wow. I’m not the biggest fan of visual art in literature, because I generally have a hard time visualizing the paintings or sculptures or whatever other art forms are being described. But I could see Emily’s restoration work her own paintings in my mind’s eye. They were incredibly well-described without becoming monotonous or boring. I also learned a lot about art restoration techniques without feeling like I was reading a textbook, which was enjoyable for me. And the Tuscan setting was gorgeous. I could feel the sunlight on my face and smell the bubbling pasta sauces. I’ve always wanted to visit Italy, and this book reawakened that desire.
The characters, art, and setting were all wonderful. But what I really loved was how seamlessly Reay added in her faith elements. They never felt forced or heavy or trite. Faith became real to Emily throughout her story. She learned that there were some things that she could never fix. But that didn’t mean that Jesus couldn’t fix them for her. All in all, this was a lovely Christian romance that taught me something about the power of art and the strength of families. And, even when the art fades and the family is broken, there is nothing that Jesus can't restore.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, more so than any of Reay’s books since her first, Dear Mr. Knightley. It was sweet and uplifting and just the mental palette cleanser I needed after last month’s heavier, darker reading. Reay writes Christian romantic fiction with large doses of humor and classic literary references. Her second and third novels both fell kind of flat for me, but I really loved Dear Mr. Knightley and so decided to give her newest book a try. I’m glad I did. Emily was realistically flawed without being unlikeable, and her Italian in-laws were a beautiful mess. I loved Ben so much; he reminded me of my husband. In fact, almost every character in the book reminded me of a family member or close friend, or in one case a friend’s mother.
And the art in this book. Wow. I’m not the biggest fan of visual art in literature, because I generally have a hard time visualizing the paintings or sculptures or whatever other art forms are being described. But I could see Emily’s restoration work her own paintings in my mind’s eye. They were incredibly well-described without becoming monotonous or boring. I also learned a lot about art restoration techniques without feeling like I was reading a textbook, which was enjoyable for me. And the Tuscan setting was gorgeous. I could feel the sunlight on my face and smell the bubbling pasta sauces. I’ve always wanted to visit Italy, and this book reawakened that desire.
The characters, art, and setting were all wonderful. But what I really loved was how seamlessly Reay added in her faith elements. They never felt forced or heavy or trite. Faith became real to Emily throughout her story. She learned that there were some things that she could never fix. But that didn’t mean that Jesus couldn’t fix them for her. All in all, this was a lovely Christian romance that taught me something about the power of art and the strength of families. And, even when the art fades and the family is broken, there is nothing that Jesus can't restore.
November 5, 2016
Art, literature, and fine Italian cuisine mingle in Katherine Reay's most recent masterpiece A Portrait of Emily Price. Subtlety is Reay's specialty and one of the reasons I believe Emily's story will appeal to mainstream romance readers. Unless familiar with Thomas Nelson Publishing, a reader may not recognize this book as Christian fiction from the outset. Initially, I felt the deeper messages were reserved for the latter 2/3rds of the book, after Emily and Ben had reached Italy. However, upon a second reading, I was able to pick up more of the bread crumbs Reay lays down and noticed how they were aimed at defining joy. As Ben expresses so simply when he says, "...joy isn't a feeling, it's a truth." Still, my heart was most captivated by the art restoration project Emily undertakes. As the hidden work emerges, so do the family's long held secrets. Ben's big Catholic family, Emily, and the reader all walk away with an unforgettable lesson about grace.
I received this book free of charge from the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
I received this book free of charge from the author. The opinions expressed are my own.
February 6, 2017
Full Review to come.
---------------------------------
This is the best way I can express my joy to see a new book by Katherine Reay:
:-) looking forward to November!
---------------------------------
This is the best way I can express my joy to see a new book by Katherine Reay:
:-) looking forward to November!
December 13, 2016
A Portrait of Emily Price by Katherine Reay – A Classy Masterpiece
Fixing things, whether broken or not, is Emily Price’s van Gogh. As an art restorer she’s passionate about righting anything that is “wrong” and anyone that hurts. From swooping in save her sister from her flighty behavior patterns therefore saving her from herself, to perfecting her work as a restorer, she likes projects. Her latest job takes her to Atlanta where two things happen. First, her life changes for the better… and coinciding with this euphoria is when everything falls apart. It’s Atlanta where she meets, Ben, an Italian chef who sweeps Emily off her feet. Their whirlwind romance leads them to Italy where Emily discovers long buried secrets in Ben’s family that changes everything.
Believe me when I sincerely say the following: the skill with which Katherine tells each of her stories impresses me like none other. The writing, the storytelling, and the characters surpass every checklist you want a fictional story to checkmate. Her skills embody precisely what stellar fiction should. This story, Katherine’s latest is one I read as a read along with blogging friends, and the experience is richer for it.
Every single yellow-petaled, black-centered, stiff-stalked flower stared right at me- for the very first time." - Katherine Reay
Aside from the writing and skill that goes into every one of Katherine’s novels, the unique markers of them are the literary nods each one carries. This one is no different. Jane Austen’s Emma is easily recognizable in A Portrait of Emily Price. What I adore so much about these books is their balance of the two entities. Reay knows how to uphold the integrity of the classics without sullying them, blending, without altering, into them her own story. All of which she does with the greatest ease. For the reader, this comes off as if its an effortless marriage of these two presenting subjects. What’s so special about this novel in particular is its titular character, Emily Price.
Her flaws aren’t suppressed or hidden, and the first-person voice exposes these in such a beautiful way. The turmoil, heartbreak, romanticism and joy of this story are indescribable entities to put to paper. Emily’s “need” to “fix” something that’s broken is a compulsion that she underestimates and ironically, is taught to correct by people who don’t really know her. Emily’s journey is one that inspires, and compels the reader to take a look at our idiosyncrasies and wonder if this is how we view life. All this said and I’ve not even touched on the amazing character of Ben. There’s so much to say about him, and yet putting it down on paper seems so impossible. In a single paragraph (in the first five pages), he walks into Emily’s (and our) life, and if you’re anything like me, you’ll be a goner. With that, I feel enough has been said.
Reay’s novels are impossible to talk about in the manner they deserve. They’re the kind of stories that beg to be re-read seconds after the final page because there’s simply no way one reading allows its reader to truly absorb all of its nuances. Classy. Smart. Endearing. Beautiful. All of these adjectives and more are inadequate to describe the worth this story has, but they come closest. Solid storytelling, brilliant relationship and character building (complete with starry eyed romance), and memorable joy in the smallness of life come together like the greatest masterpiece on a gallery’s wall to form A Portrait of Emily Price.
Sincere thanks to the publisher for providing a complimentary copy of this book.
Fixing things, whether broken or not, is Emily Price’s van Gogh. As an art restorer she’s passionate about righting anything that is “wrong” and anyone that hurts. From swooping in save her sister from her flighty behavior patterns therefore saving her from herself, to perfecting her work as a restorer, she likes projects. Her latest job takes her to Atlanta where two things happen. First, her life changes for the better… and coinciding with this euphoria is when everything falls apart. It’s Atlanta where she meets, Ben, an Italian chef who sweeps Emily off her feet. Their whirlwind romance leads them to Italy where Emily discovers long buried secrets in Ben’s family that changes everything.
Believe me when I sincerely say the following: the skill with which Katherine tells each of her stories impresses me like none other. The writing, the storytelling, and the characters surpass every checklist you want a fictional story to checkmate. Her skills embody precisely what stellar fiction should. This story, Katherine’s latest is one I read as a read along with blogging friends, and the experience is richer for it.
Every single yellow-petaled, black-centered, stiff-stalked flower stared right at me- for the very first time." - Katherine Reay
Aside from the writing and skill that goes into every one of Katherine’s novels, the unique markers of them are the literary nods each one carries. This one is no different. Jane Austen’s Emma is easily recognizable in A Portrait of Emily Price. What I adore so much about these books is their balance of the two entities. Reay knows how to uphold the integrity of the classics without sullying them, blending, without altering, into them her own story. All of which she does with the greatest ease. For the reader, this comes off as if its an effortless marriage of these two presenting subjects. What’s so special about this novel in particular is its titular character, Emily Price.
Her flaws aren’t suppressed or hidden, and the first-person voice exposes these in such a beautiful way. The turmoil, heartbreak, romanticism and joy of this story are indescribable entities to put to paper. Emily’s “need” to “fix” something that’s broken is a compulsion that she underestimates and ironically, is taught to correct by people who don’t really know her. Emily’s journey is one that inspires, and compels the reader to take a look at our idiosyncrasies and wonder if this is how we view life. All this said and I’ve not even touched on the amazing character of Ben. There’s so much to say about him, and yet putting it down on paper seems so impossible. In a single paragraph (in the first five pages), he walks into Emily’s (and our) life, and if you’re anything like me, you’ll be a goner. With that, I feel enough has been said.
Reay’s novels are impossible to talk about in the manner they deserve. They’re the kind of stories that beg to be re-read seconds after the final page because there’s simply no way one reading allows its reader to truly absorb all of its nuances. Classy. Smart. Endearing. Beautiful. All of these adjectives and more are inadequate to describe the worth this story has, but they come closest. Solid storytelling, brilliant relationship and character building (complete with starry eyed romance), and memorable joy in the smallness of life come together like the greatest masterpiece on a gallery’s wall to form A Portrait of Emily Price.
Sincere thanks to the publisher for providing a complimentary copy of this book.
November 11, 2016
This book had a lot of promise. Emily has an interesting career with an insurance agency to restore artwork. A job in Atlanta takes her from her Chicago home for two weeks. Her firm set her up to stay in Joseph’s studio. Joseph is a gorgeous Italian man. Emily has tried to teach herself Italian, though she’s far from fluent. He’s not the most welcoming man, but he takes her to the restaurant of his aunt and uncle, where she meets his younger brother, Ben, who is also tall, dark, gorgeous, and of course, Italian.
While Emily works on restoring the works of art in the Atlanta home damaged by fire, she gets a call from her sister Amy, who tells her she got laid off from the accounting job that Emily pulled strings to get her. Amy insists it wasn’t just her—although she was not good at her job because she never wanted that kind of work in the first place—there are layoffs happening all over the company.
Emily discovers it’s true—she gets an email telling her that when she finishes the two-week job here, she has no job to go back to. It’s not a field where there are tons of positions to fill. She feels obligated to look for a job for both her and her sister, since she’s the responsible one and Amy is the flake. Meanwhile, she’s falling for Ben, and might have an opportunity to stay on working for Joseph, who has been estranged from Ben and his family for seventeen years.
Ben is trying to turn his aunt and uncle’s restaurant around by updating the menu. Emily helps by freshening up the décor.
Here’s what doesn’t work for me: Emily and Ben fall in love way too fast. There are no barriers they must overcome, which is what makes romance novels fun. You want two people to be perfect for each other, but they must overcome huge obstacles so they can be together. In just two weeks, Bam! Ben and Emily are in love and believe they should get married. I want to believe in love in first sight, but I don’t feel their love. I don’t believe that they are so madly in love they should get married right away.
Then, while I love Italy and art, it wasn’t enough to get me quickly turning pages to find out what happens next, because very little happens next. When Ben and Emily move home to his parent’s place, the entire rest of the book is filled with tiny moments of small conflicts, but no major conflicts. Yes, Ben’s father is dying and his mother, Donata, is obviously unhappy about that and about the fact that Ben got married so quickly, so she doesn’t warm up to Emily, nor do the other women in his family except for his sister Francesca. Emily finds projects around the house and at their church to keep herself busy and out of Donata’s way. Ben is busy with the family restaurant his father started. Ben’s absence in Atlanta through the restaurant into a chaotic mess Ben must work overtime to straighten out and get back on track.
I would have liked Emily to have been a more complex, layered character. I wanted a deeper, more complex relationship with her sister. I wanted Emily’s problems to be bigger, but mostly, I just never believed the love between Ben and her was so powerful they had to get married so quickly and once they were married, that it was strong enough to overcome any major problems. Even the things that were supposed to feel like dramatic dark moments got resolved too easily.
Thanks to Netgalley for an opportunity to review this book.
To read more of my reviews, please visit: http://theresaalan.net/blog/
While Emily works on restoring the works of art in the Atlanta home damaged by fire, she gets a call from her sister Amy, who tells her she got laid off from the accounting job that Emily pulled strings to get her. Amy insists it wasn’t just her—although she was not good at her job because she never wanted that kind of work in the first place—there are layoffs happening all over the company.
Emily discovers it’s true—she gets an email telling her that when she finishes the two-week job here, she has no job to go back to. It’s not a field where there are tons of positions to fill. She feels obligated to look for a job for both her and her sister, since she’s the responsible one and Amy is the flake. Meanwhile, she’s falling for Ben, and might have an opportunity to stay on working for Joseph, who has been estranged from Ben and his family for seventeen years.
Ben is trying to turn his aunt and uncle’s restaurant around by updating the menu. Emily helps by freshening up the décor.
Here’s what doesn’t work for me: Emily and Ben fall in love way too fast. There are no barriers they must overcome, which is what makes romance novels fun. You want two people to be perfect for each other, but they must overcome huge obstacles so they can be together. In just two weeks, Bam! Ben and Emily are in love and believe they should get married. I want to believe in love in first sight, but I don’t feel their love. I don’t believe that they are so madly in love they should get married right away.
Then, while I love Italy and art, it wasn’t enough to get me quickly turning pages to find out what happens next, because very little happens next. When Ben and Emily move home to his parent’s place, the entire rest of the book is filled with tiny moments of small conflicts, but no major conflicts. Yes, Ben’s father is dying and his mother, Donata, is obviously unhappy about that and about the fact that Ben got married so quickly, so she doesn’t warm up to Emily, nor do the other women in his family except for his sister Francesca. Emily finds projects around the house and at their church to keep herself busy and out of Donata’s way. Ben is busy with the family restaurant his father started. Ben’s absence in Atlanta through the restaurant into a chaotic mess Ben must work overtime to straighten out and get back on track.
I would have liked Emily to have been a more complex, layered character. I wanted a deeper, more complex relationship with her sister. I wanted Emily’s problems to be bigger, but mostly, I just never believed the love between Ben and her was so powerful they had to get married so quickly and once they were married, that it was strong enough to overcome any major problems. Even the things that were supposed to feel like dramatic dark moments got resolved too easily.
Thanks to Netgalley for an opportunity to review this book.
To read more of my reviews, please visit: http://theresaalan.net/blog/
January 1, 2017
Favorite Quotes:
And handsome... The right kind – the dark, lean kind with a four o’clock shadow because five o’clock would be too de rigueur. The guy you watch walking down the plan aisle, hoping he’ll sit next to you. Yet he never does. He sits right behind you – with his wife.
He was exactly what I had always envisioned my ideal that guy to be. Actually, the whole list, fully formed at age eight, started and ended with Italian – all the rest was icing.
I dropped each into a jar, reminding myself with every plink that I did first-class work – the grownup equivalent of I think I can.
We piled into an impossibly tiny car, smaller than a smart car, if any American could imagine that. Ben then dashed like a lunatic onto the Roman roads. Cars were everywhere, careening between lanes, zipping at high speeds down frightfully narrow streets, dodging pedestrians, and climbing hills in switchback turns.
She articulated my name slowly pulling each syllable long, paying special attention to the center mal. It stretched forever. In Italian, I knew it meant ‘ache’ or ‘evil,’ and I figured her emphasis was no coincidence.
Francesca was a beauty, delicate and quiet. She had the raven hair of her mother, but a more delicate jaw line and nose. It made her feel like a whisper, while Donata, to me, personified a scream.
My Review:
I enjoyed this story start to finish, a new bride finds herself in a foreign country and stranded in the home of a cold and angry mother-in-law, hmm, something I could most certainly relate to. In addition to those complications, there seems to be a silent eighteen-year family feud that no one talks about or seems to understand. Emily, who is an art restorer, liked to be working or fixing something. She was good at fixing things, however, her attempts at fixing people seemed to be more problematic than helpful, for all involved. This was my first experience reading this talented scribe and I adored her smart and witty style. Katherine Reay has devised an ingenious, lushly detailed, and well-constructed story. Her delivery was clever, crisp, and devilishly amusing. I want to read every sentence she has, or will ever, put to print.
And handsome... The right kind – the dark, lean kind with a four o’clock shadow because five o’clock would be too de rigueur. The guy you watch walking down the plan aisle, hoping he’ll sit next to you. Yet he never does. He sits right behind you – with his wife.
He was exactly what I had always envisioned my ideal that guy to be. Actually, the whole list, fully formed at age eight, started and ended with Italian – all the rest was icing.
I dropped each into a jar, reminding myself with every plink that I did first-class work – the grownup equivalent of I think I can.
We piled into an impossibly tiny car, smaller than a smart car, if any American could imagine that. Ben then dashed like a lunatic onto the Roman roads. Cars were everywhere, careening between lanes, zipping at high speeds down frightfully narrow streets, dodging pedestrians, and climbing hills in switchback turns.
She articulated my name slowly pulling each syllable long, paying special attention to the center mal. It stretched forever. In Italian, I knew it meant ‘ache’ or ‘evil,’ and I figured her emphasis was no coincidence.
Francesca was a beauty, delicate and quiet. She had the raven hair of her mother, but a more delicate jaw line and nose. It made her feel like a whisper, while Donata, to me, personified a scream.
My Review:
I enjoyed this story start to finish, a new bride finds herself in a foreign country and stranded in the home of a cold and angry mother-in-law, hmm, something I could most certainly relate to. In addition to those complications, there seems to be a silent eighteen-year family feud that no one talks about or seems to understand. Emily, who is an art restorer, liked to be working or fixing something. She was good at fixing things, however, her attempts at fixing people seemed to be more problematic than helpful, for all involved. This was my first experience reading this talented scribe and I adored her smart and witty style. Katherine Reay has devised an ingenious, lushly detailed, and well-constructed story. Her delivery was clever, crisp, and devilishly amusing. I want to read every sentence she has, or will ever, put to print.
January 12, 2019
1/2019 reread
Still absolutely love this novel. Love the love story and then the complexity of emotion, the intense underlying conflict/tension and the desire to belong. And the art.
*Happy sigh*
--------
Life and beauty burst off the pages of A Portrait of Emily Price. I felt like I stepped into another world while I read. The characters, the places they visited, and the struggles they face all held authenticity and breathed life. Katherine Reay is a master storyteller.
Some sentences would be so beautiful or thought-provoking that I would read them again a second or third time just to soak it all in. This is one of those books I wanted to read fast because I loved it and needed to know what happened, but at the same time, I wanted to read it slowly so I could savor all the things I loved about it.
I am growing to love stories told in the first-person point of view. It gives you a deeper insight into the main character’s mind and makes the impact of their character growth that much stronger. I was thrilled this book was told from Emily’s POV exclusively. And the short chapters made it so easy for me to read a ‘little bit more’ before my lunch break ended or I went to bed each night. The Italian dialogue sprinkled throughout the novel added an extra layer to the story, both making it more beautiful and realistic, while also spotlighting Emily’s struggle to belong in her new family.
I was pulled into this novel almost immediately with the Italian family restaurant and the cute tables, and everyone speaking in Italian. From the moment you meet Ben, you will love him. He is adorable and charming. As Emily would say, “This guy had no clue how handsome he was. You could tell by his eyes. Eyes never hide and never lie. His danced with laughter and no awareness at all that I was melting right before him.” And with that, I knew I was going to love his character and this story; and this is only page three. Ben is all heart, and his love for his family is clearly seen through his actions, which are a natural outpouring of who he is.
Italy. I absolutely love that this novel took us to Italy. The place, the atmosphere, the food, and the family all felt uniquely Italian. Emily arrives and is hit with the reality of her new home where everything is foreign and different. As she tries to find her place in Ben’s family, life becomes increasingly complicated and difficult. She tries to fit in, but she always seems to bump into someone. Her struggle with belonging is an aspect of this novel I was really interested in, watching her face all this newness and trying to learn and change with her new reality.
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions I expressed in this review are my own.*
For my full review, please visit https://bookshelvesandwindows.wordpre....
Still absolutely love this novel. Love the love story and then the complexity of emotion, the intense underlying conflict/tension and the desire to belong. And the art.
*Happy sigh*
--------
Life and beauty burst off the pages of A Portrait of Emily Price. I felt like I stepped into another world while I read. The characters, the places they visited, and the struggles they face all held authenticity and breathed life. Katherine Reay is a master storyteller.
Some sentences would be so beautiful or thought-provoking that I would read them again a second or third time just to soak it all in. This is one of those books I wanted to read fast because I loved it and needed to know what happened, but at the same time, I wanted to read it slowly so I could savor all the things I loved about it.
I am growing to love stories told in the first-person point of view. It gives you a deeper insight into the main character’s mind and makes the impact of their character growth that much stronger. I was thrilled this book was told from Emily’s POV exclusively. And the short chapters made it so easy for me to read a ‘little bit more’ before my lunch break ended or I went to bed each night. The Italian dialogue sprinkled throughout the novel added an extra layer to the story, both making it more beautiful and realistic, while also spotlighting Emily’s struggle to belong in her new family.
I was pulled into this novel almost immediately with the Italian family restaurant and the cute tables, and everyone speaking in Italian. From the moment you meet Ben, you will love him. He is adorable and charming. As Emily would say, “This guy had no clue how handsome he was. You could tell by his eyes. Eyes never hide and never lie. His danced with laughter and no awareness at all that I was melting right before him.” And with that, I knew I was going to love his character and this story; and this is only page three. Ben is all heart, and his love for his family is clearly seen through his actions, which are a natural outpouring of who he is.
Italy. I absolutely love that this novel took us to Italy. The place, the atmosphere, the food, and the family all felt uniquely Italian. Emily arrives and is hit with the reality of her new home where everything is foreign and different. As she tries to find her place in Ben’s family, life becomes increasingly complicated and difficult. She tries to fit in, but she always seems to bump into someone. Her struggle with belonging is an aspect of this novel I was really interested in, watching her face all this newness and trying to learn and change with her new reality.
*I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions I expressed in this review are my own.*
For my full review, please visit https://bookshelvesandwindows.wordpre....
November 29, 2017
by Andrea Renee Cox
The quick start to this book hooked me in right away. From the Italian brothers to the art restoration to the lead getting fired (all before the third chapter!), I was swept into Emily Price's world immediately.
Unfortunately, three things pulled me out of that world for a time: too much kissing (particularly with a guy she had just met), unnecessary sexual comments throughout the first half of the book, and alcohol throughout the entire book. If it weren't for those things, this would easily be my favorite Reay book.
The romance was palpable, the food delicious enough to taste right off the page, and the scenery truly magnificent (who wouldn't want to go to Italy?!). The family dynamics and how secrets ripped them all apart... Ms. Reay wrote those things in such a mesmerizing fashion. I felt like I was a part of Ben's family, that Donata was furious with me along with Emily, that Joseph could storm in or out of my house at any moment, that I should be cleaning my paintbrushes or gathering up soiled cotton balls, that I should be listening to these characters and allowing their problem-solving skills and mistakes to soak into my heart so that I may find similar successes and avoid the same errors. Seriously, this book came alive to me, particularly at the halfway point when the inappropriate sexual comments ceased altogether. Then I really enjoyed it and felt completely immersed in the places and secrets and whirlwind of events. This book was a journey worth taking, and I'm certain I'll be revisiting it at some point soon.
I was not compensated for my honest review.
The quick start to this book hooked me in right away. From the Italian brothers to the art restoration to the lead getting fired (all before the third chapter!), I was swept into Emily Price's world immediately.
Unfortunately, three things pulled me out of that world for a time: too much kissing (particularly with a guy she had just met), unnecessary sexual comments throughout the first half of the book, and alcohol throughout the entire book. If it weren't for those things, this would easily be my favorite Reay book.
The romance was palpable, the food delicious enough to taste right off the page, and the scenery truly magnificent (who wouldn't want to go to Italy?!). The family dynamics and how secrets ripped them all apart... Ms. Reay wrote those things in such a mesmerizing fashion. I felt like I was a part of Ben's family, that Donata was furious with me along with Emily, that Joseph could storm in or out of my house at any moment, that I should be cleaning my paintbrushes or gathering up soiled cotton balls, that I should be listening to these characters and allowing their problem-solving skills and mistakes to soak into my heart so that I may find similar successes and avoid the same errors. Seriously, this book came alive to me, particularly at the halfway point when the inappropriate sexual comments ceased altogether. Then I really enjoyed it and felt completely immersed in the places and secrets and whirlwind of events. This book was a journey worth taking, and I'm certain I'll be revisiting it at some point soon.
I was not compensated for my honest review.
January 11, 2018
I loved the atmosphere of this book. There is something so scrumptious about Reay’s writing to begin with, and she did an excellent job immersing me as the reader in a story of art and artists and family. A good word to describe this book would be “colorful.” The saga of Emily’s hasty marriage to a man she “just knew” and the humor of her fainting at the wedding (a favorite scene!) were quickly morphed into the new life Emily springs into in Italy with her new husband’s family. There were so many hurdles to overcome as she tries to fit into a close-knit family who is occupied with grief as their patriarch, Lucio, slips closer to the grave each day.
The one thing that felt like a real stretch to me was how easily Emily shifted into the Catholic traditions and the practices...pondering the stations of the cross and so on. I suppose she wasn’t presented as a staunch Protestant to begin with, but such a transition still had to be a bit of a shock for an American church-goer; and it seemed like she didn’t anticipate any issues with the theology of her new church home.
Content: wine and the drinking thereof
Some heavy flirting from Ben as he sweeps her off her feet in the week before he proposes to her; after the wedding, there’s nothing inappropriate. I was so glad to read the heartfelt but entirely appropriate scenes of them as a couple. I’d love it if more authors took this approach on how to describe wedded intimacy.
The one thing that felt like a real stretch to me was how easily Emily shifted into the Catholic traditions and the practices...pondering the stations of the cross and so on. I suppose she wasn’t presented as a staunch Protestant to begin with, but such a transition still had to be a bit of a shock for an American church-goer; and it seemed like she didn’t anticipate any issues with the theology of her new church home.
Content: wine and the drinking thereof
Some heavy flirting from Ben as he sweeps her off her feet in the week before he proposes to her; after the wedding, there’s nothing inappropriate. I was so glad to read the heartfelt but entirely appropriate scenes of them as a couple. I’d love it if more authors took this approach on how to describe wedded intimacy.
August 4, 2020
2.5 stars, .5 extra because it was better than Lizzy & Jane , to which I gave 2 stars
Oh dear, such mixed feelings.
I really, really, REALLY wanted to love this book. Everything within me wanted to be delighted with this book. The reviews are so overwhelmingly positive, the blurb makes it sound romantic and wonderful, and I was ready to love it.
Unfortunately, I didn't.
There were a lot of bits and pieces, and a lot of elements about the story that I liked, but as a whole it just didn't work for me. I know Katherine Reay is capable of great things, because I remember adoring Dear Mr. Knightley. But I also know that not everything she writes works for me, because I couldn't finish Lizzy and Jane. After reading A Portrait of Emily Price, I'm realizing that her storytelling style is simply not my cup of tea. Somehow it works in Dear Mr. Knightley because of the epistolary nature (and I looooove epistolary novels!!), but everything felt disjointed and disconnected here.
The main problem was that this book was trying to be too many things at once. It felt both realistic and escapist by turns, but in a way that didn't make much sense and that wasn't very enjoyable to follow. It tried to be literary and artsy and culinary, involved too many little storylines and not enough conversations, and overall didn't really seem to focus on any one thing.
It was basically a mish-mash of everyone's favourite Italian clichés, thrown into a bowl to form a clumpy dough that couldn't hold itself together, and then half-baked with miscellaneous toppings, resulting in a pizza that held potential but wasn't cooked and thought through enough. It could have been so good...
A Portrait of Emily Price had all the makings of an amazingly dreamy romance, coupled with the interesting challenges of art restoration and working a restaurant, all set against the sunny, colourful and inviting backdrop of a small Italian village. That's rather what the back cover makes you believe.
Although there was a romance in this novel between the two main characters, it didn't drive the story. I really wish it had, and not just because I love a good romance, but because everything else sort of fell through and seemed to lack motivation. I kept asking myself what the point was. Why was I reading on? What was the main plot supposed to be about? The whole "family secrets" thing really did not entice me, because it seemed half-done. I wasn't sure what was actually supposed to be important, and what wasn't, because there were so many directions this book could have taken.
A book about Italy should be slow, heated, sensuous...perfect escapism.
A Portrait of Emily Price was a whirlwind.
I’m supposed to buy that Ben and Emily meet, fall in love, and get married within two weeks, and fly off to Italy the very next day without discussing anything?!
This is the kind of thing that only works in an Edith Wharton or Henry James novel of character psychology, or in a pure romance novel, which this book certainly wasn’t. If the point had been to escape America and encroaching relatives to go honeymoon in a sunny villa, sampling wine and making love under olive trees, sure, that would’ve worked. If the aim had been purely escapist and full of passion, it would’ve worked. Because that’s the kind of crazy thing you want in a book like that. Something that makes you want to live and makes you feel like you aren’t doing enough with your life if you’re not suddenly dropping everything to follow the man of your dreams to a foreign country.
But Emily Price isn’t like that all. It’s not escapist or romancy enough to be able to reasonably pull a plot device like that. It’s too realistic not to question the many strange decisions Ben and Emily make. Or more specifically, the lack of important conversations and problems that SHOULD come up between them, but don’t.
How many kids do they want? Where are they going to live? What about faith? Ben comes from a traditional Catholic family, but Emily’s religious beliefs aren’t discussed at all. She didn’t sound Christian. These are only mere examples of the many things that should have arisen between the characters, but that didn’t. And because the tone of the story was too realistic to make do without, I was annoyed.
I like things to make sense and this DID NOT MAKE SENSE.
And I really just didn’t understand the big issue with Emily’s “fixing”. She works in restoration, of course she fixes things!! And the bit on the blurb where it says that she interferes with everything and everyone instead of letting the people and the country change her? WHAT?
First of all, any “interference” that occurred in Ben’s mule-headed family at the hand of Emily was always at the prompting of someone within said family. The supposed “issues” and “long buried secrets” were not dug up because of her. SHE WAS ASKED TO PAINT THAT MURAL. Everything she did, she did for the good of someone.
And secondly, SHE’S JUST TRYING TO FIT IN. We’re talking about an American woman (who has never been to Italy before?) who doesn’t really speak Italian, and beyond having loved the culture and the food from afar, has no clue what to do with herself when Ben LITERALLY DUMPS HER AT HIS FAMILY HOME AND TOOTLES OFF TO HIS RESTAURANT THE DAY THEY ARRIVE IN ITALY. Can you blame her for trying to “fix” things?? Is it even “fixing” things?! She’s trying to find her place!
And why is uncovering a mural “interfering” and “trying to fix things” but re-painting it (thus LITERALLY fixing it) to tell a whole story is her finally letting go of her need to fix things?
HOW IS THAT “NOT FIXING THINGS”? WHY IS IT DIFFERENT?!
WHAT WAS I SUPPOSED TO TAKE AWAY FROM THIS BOOK??
Oh dear, such mixed feelings.
I really, really, REALLY wanted to love this book. Everything within me wanted to be delighted with this book. The reviews are so overwhelmingly positive, the blurb makes it sound romantic and wonderful, and I was ready to love it.
Unfortunately, I didn't.
There were a lot of bits and pieces, and a lot of elements about the story that I liked, but as a whole it just didn't work for me. I know Katherine Reay is capable of great things, because I remember adoring Dear Mr. Knightley. But I also know that not everything she writes works for me, because I couldn't finish Lizzy and Jane. After reading A Portrait of Emily Price, I'm realizing that her storytelling style is simply not my cup of tea. Somehow it works in Dear Mr. Knightley because of the epistolary nature (and I looooove epistolary novels!!), but everything felt disjointed and disconnected here.
The main problem was that this book was trying to be too many things at once. It felt both realistic and escapist by turns, but in a way that didn't make much sense and that wasn't very enjoyable to follow. It tried to be literary and artsy and culinary, involved too many little storylines and not enough conversations, and overall didn't really seem to focus on any one thing.
It was basically a mish-mash of everyone's favourite Italian clichés, thrown into a bowl to form a clumpy dough that couldn't hold itself together, and then half-baked with miscellaneous toppings, resulting in a pizza that held potential but wasn't cooked and thought through enough. It could have been so good...
A Portrait of Emily Price had all the makings of an amazingly dreamy romance, coupled with the interesting challenges of art restoration and working a restaurant, all set against the sunny, colourful and inviting backdrop of a small Italian village. That's rather what the back cover makes you believe.
Although there was a romance in this novel between the two main characters, it didn't drive the story. I really wish it had, and not just because I love a good romance, but because everything else sort of fell through and seemed to lack motivation. I kept asking myself what the point was. Why was I reading on? What was the main plot supposed to be about? The whole "family secrets" thing really did not entice me, because it seemed half-done. I wasn't sure what was actually supposed to be important, and what wasn't, because there were so many directions this book could have taken.
A book about Italy should be slow, heated, sensuous...perfect escapism.
A Portrait of Emily Price was a whirlwind.
I’m supposed to buy that Ben and Emily meet, fall in love, and get married within two weeks, and fly off to Italy the very next day without discussing anything?!
This is the kind of thing that only works in an Edith Wharton or Henry James novel of character psychology, or in a pure romance novel, which this book certainly wasn’t. If the point had been to escape America and encroaching relatives to go honeymoon in a sunny villa, sampling wine and making love under olive trees, sure, that would’ve worked. If the aim had been purely escapist and full of passion, it would’ve worked. Because that’s the kind of crazy thing you want in a book like that. Something that makes you want to live and makes you feel like you aren’t doing enough with your life if you’re not suddenly dropping everything to follow the man of your dreams to a foreign country.
But Emily Price isn’t like that all. It’s not escapist or romancy enough to be able to reasonably pull a plot device like that. It’s too realistic not to question the many strange decisions Ben and Emily make. Or more specifically, the lack of important conversations and problems that SHOULD come up between them, but don’t.
How many kids do they want? Where are they going to live? What about faith? Ben comes from a traditional Catholic family, but Emily’s religious beliefs aren’t discussed at all. She didn’t sound Christian. These are only mere examples of the many things that should have arisen between the characters, but that didn’t. And because the tone of the story was too realistic to make do without, I was annoyed.
I like things to make sense and this DID NOT MAKE SENSE.
And I really just didn’t understand the big issue with Emily’s “fixing”. She works in restoration, of course she fixes things!! And the bit on the blurb where it says that she interferes with everything and everyone instead of letting the people and the country change her? WHAT?
First of all, any “interference” that occurred in Ben’s mule-headed family at the hand of Emily was always at the prompting of someone within said family. The supposed “issues” and “long buried secrets” were not dug up because of her. SHE WAS ASKED TO PAINT THAT MURAL. Everything she did, she did for the good of someone.
And secondly, SHE’S JUST TRYING TO FIT IN. We’re talking about an American woman (who has never been to Italy before?) who doesn’t really speak Italian, and beyond having loved the culture and the food from afar, has no clue what to do with herself when Ben LITERALLY DUMPS HER AT HIS FAMILY HOME AND TOOTLES OFF TO HIS RESTAURANT THE DAY THEY ARRIVE IN ITALY. Can you blame her for trying to “fix” things?? Is it even “fixing” things?! She’s trying to find her place!
And why is uncovering a mural “interfering” and “trying to fix things” but re-painting it (thus LITERALLY fixing it) to tell a whole story is her finally letting go of her need to fix things?
HOW IS THAT “NOT FIXING THINGS”? WHY IS IT DIFFERENT?!
WHAT WAS I SUPPOSED TO TAKE AWAY FROM THIS BOOK??
November 4, 2016
When Katherine Reay has a new book coming out, you can bet that I will read it! This being only her fourth in the history of ever, it's not too many authors who become that dear to me this quickly. But Ms. Reay made me an instant fan with her debut, Dear Mr. Knightley, and every book since has only sweetened my adoration of her writing! There is simply something incredible about her ability to write characters that I love, along with world-building that sweeps me away (into Italy this time around!), and she tops it all off with a charming romance that adds just the right amount of tension and page-turning for more cuteness. How does she do it? I have absolutely no idea. But I love it! :D
I loved all the characters, but especially Emily herself. She is a mix of emotions and quirks. I felt a connection pretty quickly and appreciated how she dealt with all this sudden change in her life. She got overwhelmed and frustrated, yet still worked to fit in with Ben's family and tried to wind her way through the maze of a new culture, new language, new people (which isn't easy for anyone). In short, she felt like a real person. Not perfect, she certainly made a few mistakes (boy does she ever, poor girl!), but real and genuine. And Ben? Oh my goodness, I think I want a Ben of my own! Talk about making a girl weak at the knees. It's no wonder he swept Emily off her feet so easily! How on earth would you ever turn a man like that down? ;) Their relationship is definitely an appealing part of the story! But he's not perfect either. For all his love for Emily, bringing her to Italy has consequences that causes changes he was not expecting. No one ever really adjusts smoothly to big changes in their lives and Ben, Emily, and their family are no different than we.
Then there's Francesca and Lucio, my two favorite side characters. I delighted in how Lucio used stories to convey his lessons. He sees so very much more than one realizes at first and his usage of stories, whether verbal or written, just spoke to my readers heart. I wish he were real! I also loved how I could feel the lilting accents of each person. Not hear them, because I don't know what they all sound like personally, but I could definitely feel them. The layers of words and how they flowed, each character had a distinct way of speaking by the time I was in the middle of the story. It felt very much like I was in Italy myself, listening to all these conversations! Ms. Reay just has a way of drawing me into the story and making me comfortable. I think that's what it is precisely, her stories fill me with comfort. All the literary references, the food described in glorious detail (so much so that I was constantly hungry while reading! :), and simply the story itself. She wraps me up in her words and I settle there happily until the final page.
But it's the gentle weaving of relationships in amongst the lovely conversations and delicious sounding food that really struck me. That's truly where Ms. Reay excels in her writing. Relationships are never easy, they take lots of work, and she gets that. It's on every page of this story, how the love between people makes them vulnerable to hurt, how they do actively hurt each other, and how they seek and find forgiveness and come back together again. Whether friendships or romance, it's the people who matter. All the extra stuff, the restaurants, the paintings, the cooking, they all become metaphors for what these characters are going through inside. I absolutely love that! She knows the power of family, whether blood related or no.
What Ms. Reay has done with this story amazes me. I've loved her other books, but it truly feels like Lizzy & Jane and The Bronte Plot were but precursors for this one. Like she dug deep into the emotions of the characters and displays them so intricately that one cannot help but feel each one of them right along with that particular character. I am sitting here, having just finished reading this loveliness, and for all the words I just garbled out, please simply know this. You must read this story. That's all.
**I received a complimentary copy from Thomas Nelson and Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
I loved all the characters, but especially Emily herself. She is a mix of emotions and quirks. I felt a connection pretty quickly and appreciated how she dealt with all this sudden change in her life. She got overwhelmed and frustrated, yet still worked to fit in with Ben's family and tried to wind her way through the maze of a new culture, new language, new people (which isn't easy for anyone). In short, she felt like a real person. Not perfect, she certainly made a few mistakes (boy does she ever, poor girl!), but real and genuine. And Ben? Oh my goodness, I think I want a Ben of my own! Talk about making a girl weak at the knees. It's no wonder he swept Emily off her feet so easily! How on earth would you ever turn a man like that down? ;) Their relationship is definitely an appealing part of the story! But he's not perfect either. For all his love for Emily, bringing her to Italy has consequences that causes changes he was not expecting. No one ever really adjusts smoothly to big changes in their lives and Ben, Emily, and their family are no different than we.
Then there's Francesca and Lucio, my two favorite side characters. I delighted in how Lucio used stories to convey his lessons. He sees so very much more than one realizes at first and his usage of stories, whether verbal or written, just spoke to my readers heart. I wish he were real! I also loved how I could feel the lilting accents of each person. Not hear them, because I don't know what they all sound like personally, but I could definitely feel them. The layers of words and how they flowed, each character had a distinct way of speaking by the time I was in the middle of the story. It felt very much like I was in Italy myself, listening to all these conversations! Ms. Reay just has a way of drawing me into the story and making me comfortable. I think that's what it is precisely, her stories fill me with comfort. All the literary references, the food described in glorious detail (so much so that I was constantly hungry while reading! :), and simply the story itself. She wraps me up in her words and I settle there happily until the final page.
But it's the gentle weaving of relationships in amongst the lovely conversations and delicious sounding food that really struck me. That's truly where Ms. Reay excels in her writing. Relationships are never easy, they take lots of work, and she gets that. It's on every page of this story, how the love between people makes them vulnerable to hurt, how they do actively hurt each other, and how they seek and find forgiveness and come back together again. Whether friendships or romance, it's the people who matter. All the extra stuff, the restaurants, the paintings, the cooking, they all become metaphors for what these characters are going through inside. I absolutely love that! She knows the power of family, whether blood related or no.
What Ms. Reay has done with this story amazes me. I've loved her other books, but it truly feels like Lizzy & Jane and The Bronte Plot were but precursors for this one. Like she dug deep into the emotions of the characters and displays them so intricately that one cannot help but feel each one of them right along with that particular character. I am sitting here, having just finished reading this loveliness, and for all the words I just garbled out, please simply know this. You must read this story. That's all.
**I received a complimentary copy from Thomas Nelson and Netgalley. All opinions expressed are my own.
February 5, 2021
Some books got it and some books ain't got it. A Portrait of Emily Price by Katherine Reay is the latter.
It felt like I started reading one novel and ended up finishing a completely different one. There was no cohesive whole, just bits and pieces that never matched up together. I was expecting a story of an art restorer and ended up in a whirlwind romance where the heroine (and you wouldn't believe how easy it is to forget her name is Emily despite the title because of how few characters actually use her name) falls in love with an Italian chef and in two weeks has given up her Americanized life and moved to Tuscany so he can help run his family's restaurant.
This one really disappointed me. I was hoping for something poignant and genuine like in Lizzy & Jane or for something magical and literary like in The Bronte Plot. Instead, I'm following a heroine who magically transforms her art from mediocre to magnificent simply by moving to Italy. None of it matched, and if that wasn't disappointing enough, any important conversations and scenes that the reader should have been privy to were referred to instead of experienced. Emily mentions that she had this conversation or was sitting with this person or experiencing that thing, but we weren't there to experience it with her. It's the worse kind of telling instead of showing.
My usual complaint of Ms. Reay's books remains the same; there isn't enough faith in this story to make it anything other than a clean read instead of a Christian one. Ben and Emily fall in love in just two weeks and never once do they express their faith to one another. Ben could have been marrying an atheist for all he knew, which would have gone off real well in his devoutly Catholic family, I'm sure.
While I may not have been overly fond of Dear Mr. Knightley because I don't care for epistolary novels, I would happily give it a re-read before ever again picking up A Portrait of Emily Price. I know that Ms. Reay loves classic literature and tries to imbue her work with it. In this last novel, she failed. Sure, there's a couple of mentions of a book by James Joyce called A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, but I'm curious as to how many of her readers have picked up Joyce's tome? I know that I never have, but I have read Austen and Bronte. No more obscure reads, please, otherwise the magic of Ms. Reay as an anglophile may just fade.
The next book on her docket is The Austen Escape (releasing November 7, 2017) and I can only hope it's a vast improvement from A Portrait of Emily Price.
It felt like I started reading one novel and ended up finishing a completely different one. There was no cohesive whole, just bits and pieces that never matched up together. I was expecting a story of an art restorer and ended up in a whirlwind romance where the heroine (and you wouldn't believe how easy it is to forget her name is Emily despite the title because of how few characters actually use her name) falls in love with an Italian chef and in two weeks has given up her Americanized life and moved to Tuscany so he can help run his family's restaurant.
This one really disappointed me. I was hoping for something poignant and genuine like in Lizzy & Jane or for something magical and literary like in The Bronte Plot. Instead, I'm following a heroine who magically transforms her art from mediocre to magnificent simply by moving to Italy. None of it matched, and if that wasn't disappointing enough, any important conversations and scenes that the reader should have been privy to were referred to instead of experienced. Emily mentions that she had this conversation or was sitting with this person or experiencing that thing, but we weren't there to experience it with her. It's the worse kind of telling instead of showing.
My usual complaint of Ms. Reay's books remains the same; there isn't enough faith in this story to make it anything other than a clean read instead of a Christian one. Ben and Emily fall in love in just two weeks and never once do they express their faith to one another. Ben could have been marrying an atheist for all he knew, which would have gone off real well in his devoutly Catholic family, I'm sure.
While I may not have been overly fond of Dear Mr. Knightley because I don't care for epistolary novels, I would happily give it a re-read before ever again picking up A Portrait of Emily Price. I know that Ms. Reay loves classic literature and tries to imbue her work with it. In this last novel, she failed. Sure, there's a couple of mentions of a book by James Joyce called A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man, but I'm curious as to how many of her readers have picked up Joyce's tome? I know that I never have, but I have read Austen and Bronte. No more obscure reads, please, otherwise the magic of Ms. Reay as an anglophile may just fade.
The next book on her docket is The Austen Escape (releasing November 7, 2017) and I can only hope it's a vast improvement from A Portrait of Emily Price.
January 10, 2017
When preparing to read Katherine Reay’s latest novel, A Portrait of Emily Price, it’s tempting to view the book as two parts connected by a single character.
And in some ways, this is true.
The first half focuses on Emily’s restoration work in Atlanta and her whirlwind courtship with Ben as she helps him renovate his aunt and uncle’s restaurant on the side. This is romance and exhilaration and art geekery, as well as the poignancy of Emily’s work restoring a mural damaged in a house fire. The second half of the book takes place in Italy and is richly layered with tension and awkwardness as Emily tries to find her place in Ben’s family and his life.
But if you mine beneath the surface, you soon discover that A Portrait of Emily Price is a masterpiece of subtle beauty. Everything leading up to Italy is setting the stage for the renovation about to take place in Emily’s heart. And while Emily nearly alienates herself completely from Ben & his family as she inserts herself (uninvited) to their problems, wielding her restoration instincts for the better or the worse, it’s really the transformation in her own life that stands out.
The faith element in A Portrait of Emily Price is part of the setting in some ways, but Reay excels at weaving grace-filled truth gently and subtly throughout the story. The mural in the church and the story behind it, combined with Emily’s realization that Jesus is the only true Restorer of brokenness … these are the marks of truest beauty in this novel.
Bottom Line: The setting of Tuscany comes alive in Katherine Reay’s latest novel, A Portrait of Emily Price. The sights, the smells, the TASTES, the people – each element artfully presented and tangibly described. The romance may be a whirlwind in Atlanta but it’s in Italy where it find roots and ripens most sweetly. Above all, though, this is a novel of family and faith and finding your place in each. Keep your tissues handy, but rest assured you’ll be smiling plenty too!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)
See my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
And in some ways, this is true.
The first half focuses on Emily’s restoration work in Atlanta and her whirlwind courtship with Ben as she helps him renovate his aunt and uncle’s restaurant on the side. This is romance and exhilaration and art geekery, as well as the poignancy of Emily’s work restoring a mural damaged in a house fire. The second half of the book takes place in Italy and is richly layered with tension and awkwardness as Emily tries to find her place in Ben’s family and his life.
But if you mine beneath the surface, you soon discover that A Portrait of Emily Price is a masterpiece of subtle beauty. Everything leading up to Italy is setting the stage for the renovation about to take place in Emily’s heart. And while Emily nearly alienates herself completely from Ben & his family as she inserts herself (uninvited) to their problems, wielding her restoration instincts for the better or the worse, it’s really the transformation in her own life that stands out.
The faith element in A Portrait of Emily Price is part of the setting in some ways, but Reay excels at weaving grace-filled truth gently and subtly throughout the story. The mural in the church and the story behind it, combined with Emily’s realization that Jesus is the only true Restorer of brokenness … these are the marks of truest beauty in this novel.
Bottom Line: The setting of Tuscany comes alive in Katherine Reay’s latest novel, A Portrait of Emily Price. The sights, the smells, the TASTES, the people – each element artfully presented and tangibly described. The romance may be a whirlwind in Atlanta but it’s in Italy where it find roots and ripens most sweetly. Above all, though, this is a novel of family and faith and finding your place in each. Keep your tissues handy, but rest assured you’ll be smiling plenty too!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)
See my full review at Reading Is My SuperPower
April 26, 2020
A Portait of Emily Price is a novel I will want to read again. It’s a pensive, reflective, deliberate read. Introspective reads always find a way of settling into my soul and heightening my senses to the tenderness that life beholds.
I was explaining to a friend that I love the little details in this story. It’s like those clips in a movie that are filmed at a slower speed so the viewer can absorb the depth or beauty of that small, fleeting detail. That’s how Reay’s style of writing makes me feel. It’s a slowing down of the small moments that we often glaze over and never notice.
A Portrait of Emily Price is about Emily’s story. It’s about finding her truth, her grace, her genuine qualities among the delicacy and beauty of life through an artistic lens.
“My breath caught. It was beautiful. It was art.” ~ Emily Price (Katherine Reay)
I was explaining to a friend that I love the little details in this story. It’s like those clips in a movie that are filmed at a slower speed so the viewer can absorb the depth or beauty of that small, fleeting detail. That’s how Reay’s style of writing makes me feel. It’s a slowing down of the small moments that we often glaze over and never notice.
A Portrait of Emily Price is about Emily’s story. It’s about finding her truth, her grace, her genuine qualities among the delicacy and beauty of life through an artistic lens.
“My breath caught. It was beautiful. It was art.” ~ Emily Price (Katherine Reay)
November 21, 2016
Once again, author Katherine Reay has penned a contemporary novel with a complexity of skill not many in the genre can achieve with her newest release, A Portrait of Emily Price. And what a picture its pages holds! I would describe this as a family drama with a whirlwind (though always realistic) romance and a story of finding oneself in the middle of life’s chaos and joy. With a hint of whimsy, the story always stays realistic in a humidity-and-wavy-hairdo, too-much-espresso sort of way. And, in true Reay style, included literary references and nods to classic literature throughout (making this #booknerd very happy!)
I was fortunate to read this one along with some awesome blogger friends and discuss it on Twitter along the way. You can find our discussions and major fangirling by viewing the hashtag #PofEPRAL.
Reay’s style is romantic in many ways, from Emily’s observations, place descriptions, to the overall feel of the story. Not rosy and idealistic, by any means, but sweet in its outlook — the storytelling is cleverly as much about what happens “between the lines” as what’s directly told. Like the family history, the nostalgia, the courtship between Emily and Ben, and the food!
The characters are strong in the sense that their personalities are so established you can almost sense their reactions as much as read them. When Ben and Emily finally make it to Italy, you can feel the tension and belonging of home in how the scenes play out. And the supporting characters!!!!!! I loved them all, the brother, sister, parents, friends, aunts and uncles. It was fun to put the big picture together as the story progressed of how they are each integral, whether in a small or big way, to Ben and Emily’s lives. Connected, if you will, to their story, to influence, encourage, and sometimes pass on valuable wisdom.
Another way the characters are firmly established is through setting and culture. For instance, the “accents” of Ben and his family are expressed specifically, conveying notes on inflection so well it made me feel like I was listening to them. And, the descriptions of all of the different places, from the little Italian restaurant in Atlanta to the sunflower fields and Lucio’s library in Italy and everything in between practically, made me feel immersed in the culture. This book is a true example of the power of written words on a page!
The relationship between Emily and Ben is shown just enough – it’s not overly focused on the romance aspect (though there are plenty of those moments that show just how romantic Ben can be <3) but instead tells just enough you see their closeness and camaraderie. I think it’s safe to say the reader falls in love with Ben, too, from the first chapter’s description.
I could go on further about the intricacies of this story and how it pushes you to think deeply about the impact your choices have on those around you; or even its gentle reminder to seize the moment and find happiness in the little moments of everyday life. But I’ll leave you with the important stuff it showcases: truth, joy, and love (of all kinds…. romance, friendship, family/sibling/parent, even love of your work). With a style only Reay can achieve, this story is polished and engrossing with vivid, heartful characters.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Booklook for the complimentary review copy. This is my honest review.
I was fortunate to read this one along with some awesome blogger friends and discuss it on Twitter along the way. You can find our discussions and major fangirling by viewing the hashtag #PofEPRAL.
Reay’s style is romantic in many ways, from Emily’s observations, place descriptions, to the overall feel of the story. Not rosy and idealistic, by any means, but sweet in its outlook — the storytelling is cleverly as much about what happens “between the lines” as what’s directly told. Like the family history, the nostalgia, the courtship between Emily and Ben, and the food!
The characters are strong in the sense that their personalities are so established you can almost sense their reactions as much as read them. When Ben and Emily finally make it to Italy, you can feel the tension and belonging of home in how the scenes play out. And the supporting characters!!!!!! I loved them all, the brother, sister, parents, friends, aunts and uncles. It was fun to put the big picture together as the story progressed of how they are each integral, whether in a small or big way, to Ben and Emily’s lives. Connected, if you will, to their story, to influence, encourage, and sometimes pass on valuable wisdom.
Another way the characters are firmly established is through setting and culture. For instance, the “accents” of Ben and his family are expressed specifically, conveying notes on inflection so well it made me feel like I was listening to them. And, the descriptions of all of the different places, from the little Italian restaurant in Atlanta to the sunflower fields and Lucio’s library in Italy and everything in between practically, made me feel immersed in the culture. This book is a true example of the power of written words on a page!
The relationship between Emily and Ben is shown just enough – it’s not overly focused on the romance aspect (though there are plenty of those moments that show just how romantic Ben can be <3) but instead tells just enough you see their closeness and camaraderie. I think it’s safe to say the reader falls in love with Ben, too, from the first chapter’s description.
I could go on further about the intricacies of this story and how it pushes you to think deeply about the impact your choices have on those around you; or even its gentle reminder to seize the moment and find happiness in the little moments of everyday life. But I’ll leave you with the important stuff it showcases: truth, joy, and love (of all kinds…. romance, friendship, family/sibling/parent, even love of your work). With a style only Reay can achieve, this story is polished and engrossing with vivid, heartful characters.
Thank you to Thomas Nelson and Booklook for the complimentary review copy. This is my honest review.
December 29, 2016
A Portrait of Emily Price by Katherine Reay
This lovingly written book brings out the artist in all of us. The beautiful descriptions of art or whatever Emily is fixing is a feast for the senses.
Only Italian style.
As Joseph faces his brother Ben Joseph exclaims "Ben, meet Emily Price. Her insurance company is renting her a worktable in my studio for the next couple of weeks." These two Italian brothers are here to fix up Piccolo Italian restaurant.
Emily is an art restorer, she fixes things of all kinds and makes them beautiful. This book reminded me visually of Tracy Chevalier's "A Girl With A Pearl earring or Susan Vreeland's Passion for Artemesia and her earlier work. Vivid colors like sienna brown. Emily fixes a toy horse for a child by making legs with a 3D Printer. Emily can fix anything. Here she describes fixing a broken vase in colors that enrich: "I laid out each piece of the blue and white vase into a grid system on the table for later, then headed to the Peterson's to work on the mural" Emily is restoring a mural that is inside a house where there was a fire and a lot of smoke and water damage.
Painting was one Emily's favorite aspects of her work. Washing is second. And she describes how she is going to fix each object she is presented with such clarity and precise language. I could picture in my own head the beauty in each object that was described. This book is told in the first person narrative by Emily herself which makes each page sparkle. Emily knows that fixing things isn't about the end product, it is all about the process.
Emily taps on Joseph's door and says to him: "Other than a little work on the walls, I've finished the repairs on this covington job and I have some spare time. Do you have anything that I can help you with? "Piccolo" Joseph tone is sharp and he calls Emily back to put back together another beautiful piece. This book is crafted with visual language describing art and relationships. Emily states that restoration work is like a paint by number exercise, unlike her own attempts at painting or portraiture. "Great skill meant you stayed in the lines and matched your colors, textures, and viscosity to perfection. And the melding of rote action to creative expression allowed her mind to roam, dream and solve problems. "Usually I worked out how to fix some mess, work or otherwise."
I read this beautiful, loving book while eating chocolate cream pie. The book has so much more dimension. Highly Recommended.
Thank you to Net Galley, Katherine Reay and Thomas Nelson Publishing for providing me with my digital copy for a fair and honest review
This lovingly written book brings out the artist in all of us. The beautiful descriptions of art or whatever Emily is fixing is a feast for the senses.
Only Italian style.
As Joseph faces his brother Ben Joseph exclaims "Ben, meet Emily Price. Her insurance company is renting her a worktable in my studio for the next couple of weeks." These two Italian brothers are here to fix up Piccolo Italian restaurant.
Emily is an art restorer, she fixes things of all kinds and makes them beautiful. This book reminded me visually of Tracy Chevalier's "A Girl With A Pearl earring or Susan Vreeland's Passion for Artemesia and her earlier work. Vivid colors like sienna brown. Emily fixes a toy horse for a child by making legs with a 3D Printer. Emily can fix anything. Here she describes fixing a broken vase in colors that enrich: "I laid out each piece of the blue and white vase into a grid system on the table for later, then headed to the Peterson's to work on the mural" Emily is restoring a mural that is inside a house where there was a fire and a lot of smoke and water damage.
Painting was one Emily's favorite aspects of her work. Washing is second. And she describes how she is going to fix each object she is presented with such clarity and precise language. I could picture in my own head the beauty in each object that was described. This book is told in the first person narrative by Emily herself which makes each page sparkle. Emily knows that fixing things isn't about the end product, it is all about the process.
Emily taps on Joseph's door and says to him: "Other than a little work on the walls, I've finished the repairs on this covington job and I have some spare time. Do you have anything that I can help you with? "Piccolo" Joseph tone is sharp and he calls Emily back to put back together another beautiful piece. This book is crafted with visual language describing art and relationships. Emily states that restoration work is like a paint by number exercise, unlike her own attempts at painting or portraiture. "Great skill meant you stayed in the lines and matched your colors, textures, and viscosity to perfection. And the melding of rote action to creative expression allowed her mind to roam, dream and solve problems. "Usually I worked out how to fix some mess, work or otherwise."
I read this beautiful, loving book while eating chocolate cream pie. The book has so much more dimension. Highly Recommended.
Thank you to Net Galley, Katherine Reay and Thomas Nelson Publishing for providing me with my digital copy for a fair and honest review
February 13, 2017
To sum up how I feel, I made a poem...
"A subtle dance in Italian colours, jumps from frame to frame;
Illuminating the author's strokes in raw reality.
Hands gripping. Brushes glistening;
In tones of: family woes, loves angst, the deepest of life's pains.
A portrait beautifully painted through Emily Price, by Katherine Reay."
I have to admit that the beginning lags a little and I do feel the relationship was utterly fast, but when we get about half-way... the rapid connection to characters begins to take your heart. Especially one of Lucio! He literally is the heart of this story. Tears of love for that man landed on the pages. What a treat he was to literature in so many ways. *happy sigh*
This story is written with a Christian "world-view" but I would not say it is Christian. And though I don't agree with certain aspects of the relationship or use of wine, I love the aspect that it was clean and read "clean." I also loved the "whole" story of redemption and family at the end. Also, the taste of Italy and it's culture. The love of art was a delight too! My first book and I am swooned by Katherine Reay's writing :D
Recommended as an Adult Contemporary Fiction Novel
"A subtle dance in Italian colours, jumps from frame to frame;
Illuminating the author's strokes in raw reality.
Hands gripping. Brushes glistening;
In tones of: family woes, loves angst, the deepest of life's pains.
A portrait beautifully painted through Emily Price, by Katherine Reay."
I have to admit that the beginning lags a little and I do feel the relationship was utterly fast, but when we get about half-way... the rapid connection to characters begins to take your heart. Especially one of Lucio! He literally is the heart of this story. Tears of love for that man landed on the pages. What a treat he was to literature in so many ways. *happy sigh*
This story is written with a Christian "world-view" but I would not say it is Christian. And though I don't agree with certain aspects of the relationship or use of wine, I love the aspect that it was clean and read "clean." I also loved the "whole" story of redemption and family at the end. Also, the taste of Italy and it's culture. The love of art was a delight too! My first book and I am swooned by Katherine Reay's writing :D
Recommended as an Adult Contemporary Fiction Novel
February 8, 2017
Katherine has such a way with creating stories that woo me in. One fun aspect of this book was that it was like a return trip to Tuscany. I could see and imagine the whole setting, the characters were richly drawn, and the storyline sweet yet angst filled. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, just like I knew I would. Can't wait for my next Katherine Reay read.
It brings Katherine Reay's beautiful writing and story-telling to the front. It's a story of trying to control everything and falling into a place where you realize you can't. It's a story of art and how it affects us. Of how the need to fix broken things doesn't always work. It's the story of launching into an adventure and doing the hard things, of working to build relationships with others through all sorts of barriers. But ultimately it is a beautiful story of how much God wants to take our cracks and distorted places and bring full healing and restoration. It is a truly beautiful story that includes the benefit of a side-trip to Tuscany. Where's my plane ticket?!?
It brings Katherine Reay's beautiful writing and story-telling to the front. It's a story of trying to control everything and falling into a place where you realize you can't. It's a story of art and how it affects us. Of how the need to fix broken things doesn't always work. It's the story of launching into an adventure and doing the hard things, of working to build relationships with others through all sorts of barriers. But ultimately it is a beautiful story of how much God wants to take our cracks and distorted places and bring full healing and restoration. It is a truly beautiful story that includes the benefit of a side-trip to Tuscany. Where's my plane ticket?!?
August 23, 2016
Unless I miss my guess, this will be my favorite book I read in 2016. I LOVED Reay's first book, Dear Mr. Knightley, then really liked her second, Lizzy and Jane, and was a little disappointed with the plot and lack of spirituality of her third, The Brontë Plot, even though it was written well. So I wasn’t sure what to expect from this fourth one, but wow! This one is back up to Dear Mr. Knightley standards. So, so good. I finished it two days ago and actually said to someone today that I can’t wait to read it again. It’s just stunningly beautiful, achingly romantic, and brimming with grace.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
December 11, 2016
A lovely novel featuring an uplifting romance. The are comparisons made to Emma by Jane Austen in the story which is what attracted my attention
I loved the characters in this book, they drew me into the story and left me wanting more. I did not want this book to end. I will keep this book to read again, probably more than once.
Emily, the main character, is a restoration expert employed by an insurance firm. She is very skilled at fixing thing but when she tries to fix people, things start to go awry. She is sent to Atlanta to work on restoring a house destroyed by fire. She meets Joseph, a leading art restoration professional, when her company rents her space in his studio for her restoration job. He takes her to his aunt and uncle's restaurant since she does not know anyone in town. At the restaurant, Emily meets his brother, Benito, who is a chef helping his relatives get their restaurant back on track.
Benito and Emily immediately connect and their love relationship develops rapidly when Emily volunteers to help him fix up the restaurant in her spare time. As Emily finishes up the restoration job for the insurance company, she learns that her company is cutting the restoration department and that she will soon be out of a job. Emily decides to take a chance on Benito when she contemplates what she wants to do next and marries him.
Emily returns with Benito to Italy and his family. Benito resumes his place in the family restaurant and Emily struggles to fit into his family and into a new culture. There are many issues and secrets within Benito's family that come boiling to the surface due to Emily's curiosity and attempts to try and fix things. The only security that she has in this situation is Benito's love.
My favorite character in this book is Lucio, Benito's father. He has a gentle and loving spirit and always sees the best in people. His favorite place is the library in his home and he gives people books that he thinks that they can learn important lessons from. The book that he gives to Emily is Emma (whose heroine's attempts to fix things creates chaos).
Emily takes up painting to fill her time while and discovers that she has a talent for portraits. She develops a deep relationship with Lucio while he sits for his portrait and learns to understand the her new family through their discussions. Emily is offered her dream of a gallery show for her art and she is challenged to choose what is most important to her in life.
This book is well worth anyone's time to read and I hope others enjoy it as much as I did.
I was gifted this this book by Net Galley in return for an honest review. It is easy to be honest when you really loved it.
I loved the characters in this book, they drew me into the story and left me wanting more. I did not want this book to end. I will keep this book to read again, probably more than once.
Emily, the main character, is a restoration expert employed by an insurance firm. She is very skilled at fixing thing but when she tries to fix people, things start to go awry. She is sent to Atlanta to work on restoring a house destroyed by fire. She meets Joseph, a leading art restoration professional, when her company rents her space in his studio for her restoration job. He takes her to his aunt and uncle's restaurant since she does not know anyone in town. At the restaurant, Emily meets his brother, Benito, who is a chef helping his relatives get their restaurant back on track.
Benito and Emily immediately connect and their love relationship develops rapidly when Emily volunteers to help him fix up the restaurant in her spare time. As Emily finishes up the restoration job for the insurance company, she learns that her company is cutting the restoration department and that she will soon be out of a job. Emily decides to take a chance on Benito when she contemplates what she wants to do next and marries him.
Emily returns with Benito to Italy and his family. Benito resumes his place in the family restaurant and Emily struggles to fit into his family and into a new culture. There are many issues and secrets within Benito's family that come boiling to the surface due to Emily's curiosity and attempts to try and fix things. The only security that she has in this situation is Benito's love.
My favorite character in this book is Lucio, Benito's father. He has a gentle and loving spirit and always sees the best in people. His favorite place is the library in his home and he gives people books that he thinks that they can learn important lessons from. The book that he gives to Emily is Emma (whose heroine's attempts to fix things creates chaos).
Emily takes up painting to fill her time while and discovers that she has a talent for portraits. She develops a deep relationship with Lucio while he sits for his portrait and learns to understand the her new family through their discussions. Emily is offered her dream of a gallery show for her art and she is challenged to choose what is most important to her in life.
This book is well worth anyone's time to read and I hope others enjoy it as much as I did.
I was gifted this this book by Net Galley in return for an honest review. It is easy to be honest when you really loved it.
December 23, 2016
4.5 stars.
There are so many wonderful thoughts, feelings and emotions for me connected to my reading of this novel. Very well done. Beautifully written. A character voice I won't soon be forgetting. This is my first book by this author and has hooked me and intrigued me to continue reading her other works.
Emily has not had a stable and idyllic childhood. She holds many moments of life at bay due to her innate desire to protect herself and her sister. She can control and fix any object around her as her profession is a restorer. She takes a broken or worn item, analyzes, and decides the best way to fix it and restore it to perfection or as close as possible. As she has applied that tactic to all aspects of her life, she comes to realize throughout this novel that by so doing she has missed out on some important moments, relationships, healing, etc. in her life.
As she is away from home on an emergency restoration project, her whole life changes in a simple, yet very impactful meeting. Her life, her perceptions and her ability to see and portray beauty quickly changes and unfolds before her very eyes.
Life is more beautiful, has more meaning, more ups and downs, heartache, mistakes, ultimate joys and plenty of healing that she would not have discovered had she not followed her heart and taken a step into the unknown.
Emily travels to Italy and is caught up in a family's life, their anger, heartache, joys, sorrow, love, betrayal, secrets, passion, forgiveness, parting, healing, etc. and must decide where and how she fits into it all. Will she embrace this possibility of a new life or will she turn and run away from it all?
I loved the many dynamics between all the characters. I loved the family life. It was real and raw and brought many emotions of these characters to the surface. I feel that any reader will be able to feel and relate to the intricacies found therein.
Content: I would say this was a clean read. There are some kisses and nothing further. There is talk about a child born out of wedlock but done very well. There are some Christian religious aspects throughout but not overpowering. Talk about forgiveness and love and mercy and healing. Again I thought the whole book was done very tastefully and would recommend to older YA readers and up.
I read the brief excerpt from the author's other book, Dear Mr. Knightly, and must say I'm really excited to read it. It is similar to the book Daddy Long Legs(which I just had recommended to me and can't wait to read). More great books to add to my wonderful pile. :-)
I received a copy from the publisher, Thomas Nelson Fiction, through NetGalley. Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
There are so many wonderful thoughts, feelings and emotions for me connected to my reading of this novel. Very well done. Beautifully written. A character voice I won't soon be forgetting. This is my first book by this author and has hooked me and intrigued me to continue reading her other works.
Emily has not had a stable and idyllic childhood. She holds many moments of life at bay due to her innate desire to protect herself and her sister. She can control and fix any object around her as her profession is a restorer. She takes a broken or worn item, analyzes, and decides the best way to fix it and restore it to perfection or as close as possible. As she has applied that tactic to all aspects of her life, she comes to realize throughout this novel that by so doing she has missed out on some important moments, relationships, healing, etc. in her life.
As she is away from home on an emergency restoration project, her whole life changes in a simple, yet very impactful meeting. Her life, her perceptions and her ability to see and portray beauty quickly changes and unfolds before her very eyes.
Life is more beautiful, has more meaning, more ups and downs, heartache, mistakes, ultimate joys and plenty of healing that she would not have discovered had she not followed her heart and taken a step into the unknown.
Emily travels to Italy and is caught up in a family's life, their anger, heartache, joys, sorrow, love, betrayal, secrets, passion, forgiveness, parting, healing, etc. and must decide where and how she fits into it all. Will she embrace this possibility of a new life or will she turn and run away from it all?
I loved the many dynamics between all the characters. I loved the family life. It was real and raw and brought many emotions of these characters to the surface. I feel that any reader will be able to feel and relate to the intricacies found therein.
Content: I would say this was a clean read. There are some kisses and nothing further. There is talk about a child born out of wedlock but done very well. There are some Christian religious aspects throughout but not overpowering. Talk about forgiveness and love and mercy and healing. Again I thought the whole book was done very tastefully and would recommend to older YA readers and up.
I read the brief excerpt from the author's other book, Dear Mr. Knightly, and must say I'm really excited to read it. It is similar to the book Daddy Long Legs(which I just had recommended to me and can't wait to read). More great books to add to my wonderful pile. :-)
I received a copy from the publisher, Thomas Nelson Fiction, through NetGalley. Thank you! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
January 22, 2020
An enjoyable, clean romance!
Emily meets Ben, an Italian chef, who is immediately smitten with her. After just one week, she's about to find out just how smitten he is! Though it is a whirlwind romance, it's oddly believable and pretty sweet. Both Emily and Ben are easy to like, as are other delightful characters in the book.
A heartwarming tale about love and family, learning from your mistakes and putting the past behind you, and recognizing the goodness around you.
It's also about good Italian food. Side effect: this can make you hungry!
Cleanliness: "scr*wed up" appears once. A side story revolves around an illegitimate child that was born and it's mother seeking forgiveness and peace for her wrong. A divorced man, a side character, remarries. There is a lot of kissing in this book - one or two are perhaps described with a sentence, but the rest are just matter-of-fact. Alcohol and drinking are mentioned a few times.
*Note: I listened to the audio version of this book so this Cleanliness Report may not be as thoroughly detailed as other reports are. Also, some inappropriate content may have been forgotten/missed and not included in the report.
**Like my reviews? Then you should follow me! Because I have hundreds more just like this one. With each review, I provide a Cleanliness Report, mentioning any objectionable content I come across so that parents and/or conscientious readers (like me) can determine beforehand whether they want to read a book or not. Content surprises are super annoying, especially when you’re 100+ pages in, so here’s my attempt to help you avoid that!
So Follow or Friend me here on GoodReads! You’ll see my updates as I’m reading and know which books I’m liking and what I’m not finishing and why. You’ll also be able to utilize my library for looking up titles to see whether the book you’re thinking about reading next has any objectionable content or not. From swear words, to romance, to bad attitudes (in children’s books), I cover it all!
Emily meets Ben, an Italian chef, who is immediately smitten with her. After just one week, she's about to find out just how smitten he is! Though it is a whirlwind romance, it's oddly believable and pretty sweet. Both Emily and Ben are easy to like, as are other delightful characters in the book.
A heartwarming tale about love and family, learning from your mistakes and putting the past behind you, and recognizing the goodness around you.
It's also about good Italian food. Side effect: this can make you hungry!
Cleanliness: "scr*wed up" appears once. A side story revolves around an illegitimate child that was born and it's mother seeking forgiveness and peace for her wrong. A divorced man, a side character, remarries. There is a lot of kissing in this book - one or two are perhaps described with a sentence, but the rest are just matter-of-fact. Alcohol and drinking are mentioned a few times.
*Note: I listened to the audio version of this book so this Cleanliness Report may not be as thoroughly detailed as other reports are. Also, some inappropriate content may have been forgotten/missed and not included in the report.
**Like my reviews? Then you should follow me! Because I have hundreds more just like this one. With each review, I provide a Cleanliness Report, mentioning any objectionable content I come across so that parents and/or conscientious readers (like me) can determine beforehand whether they want to read a book or not. Content surprises are super annoying, especially when you’re 100+ pages in, so here’s my attempt to help you avoid that!
So Follow or Friend me here on GoodReads! You’ll see my updates as I’m reading and know which books I’m liking and what I’m not finishing and why. You’ll also be able to utilize my library for looking up titles to see whether the book you’re thinking about reading next has any objectionable content or not. From swear words, to romance, to bad attitudes (in children’s books), I cover it all!
January 5, 2017
When an art restorer and an Italian chef get together on a renovation project, the results are lots of creativity and support, true love, and pasta.
Katherine Reay creates settings that are realistically flawed- even broken- and tackles the challenge of guiding her characters through them on a journey to find purpose and belonging past their work, lifestyles, and shortcomings, ultimately back home to their families in a beautiful and touching way.
As I did with "Dear Mr. Knightley", the best way to give an overall review of a work like "A Portrait of Emily Price" is with words; words like inspirational. Cultural. Bookish. Artistic. Flowing. Tasteful. Authentic. Vibrant. White on white. Cappuccino. Loyalty. Murals. Vespa. Architecture. Classic. Pizza. Traditions. Sisters. Family. Feuds. Forgiveness. Acceptance.
Restoration.
Katherine Reay creates settings that are realistically flawed- even broken- and tackles the challenge of guiding her characters through them on a journey to find purpose and belonging past their work, lifestyles, and shortcomings, ultimately back home to their families in a beautiful and touching way.
As I did with "Dear Mr. Knightley", the best way to give an overall review of a work like "A Portrait of Emily Price" is with words; words like inspirational. Cultural. Bookish. Artistic. Flowing. Tasteful. Authentic. Vibrant. White on white. Cappuccino. Loyalty. Murals. Vespa. Architecture. Classic. Pizza. Traditions. Sisters. Family. Feuds. Forgiveness. Acceptance.
Restoration.
November 14, 2020
What a special book!
Mysterious, gentle, enlightening .. with a generous helping of Italian ....
A quite delightful read
This is my first book by this author;
I eagerly await another by her.
PS: I am quite intrigued with Joseph and hope he gets his full story in a future book.
Mysterious, gentle, enlightening .. with a generous helping of Italian ....
A quite delightful read
This is my first book by this author;
I eagerly await another by her.
PS: I am quite intrigued with Joseph and hope he gets his full story in a future book.
June 24, 2017
A Portrait of Emily Price was an enjoyable journey. Main character Emily has a career in restoring damaged items. She thrives in fixing things...and people. She controls her sister Amy's career as well.
I enjoyed the beginning of the novel set in Atlanta and the final third of the novel more than the middle third. The middle third didn't keep my interest as much. Overall, it was a lovely story with meaningful messages.
A Portrait of Emily Price is my second favorite Reay novel. Dear Mr. Knightly remains my top pick.
I enjoyed the beginning of the novel set in Atlanta and the final third of the novel more than the middle third. The middle third didn't keep my interest as much. Overall, it was a lovely story with meaningful messages.
A Portrait of Emily Price is my second favorite Reay novel. Dear Mr. Knightly remains my top pick.
December 27, 2016
What a beautiful, beautiful story! I loved it!
This is the best book I've read by this author. So well-written and easy to connect with. Characters are lovely, the story is sweet and full of amazing lessons about forgiveness and grace and second chances.
Ben is my very favorite! He's absolutely perfect. It was incredible for me to see how he put others' needs above his own.
Writing is also really good, it made feel part of the story. I traveled all the way to Italy with Emily, and I got to love Monterello and its people as well.
I enjoyed learning about Emily's job, Ben's passion, and Joseph's past. It's a book filled with life, colors, words, food, art, languages, and much more!
There are some parts that are slow, but those didn't bother me at all.
The message of the book is so good. I think I needed it. I'm a fixer, just like Emily, and I constantly need to be reminded that there are things that can't be fixed, we just have to learn to live with them.
I only complain a bit about the end. There were some unresolved issues, and I was looking forward to some closure, but I loved this read anyway.
**I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own**
This is the best book I've read by this author. So well-written and easy to connect with. Characters are lovely, the story is sweet and full of amazing lessons about forgiveness and grace and second chances.
Ben is my very favorite! He's absolutely perfect. It was incredible for me to see how he put others' needs above his own.
Writing is also really good, it made feel part of the story. I traveled all the way to Italy with Emily, and I got to love Monterello and its people as well.
I enjoyed learning about Emily's job, Ben's passion, and Joseph's past. It's a book filled with life, colors, words, food, art, languages, and much more!
There are some parts that are slow, but those didn't bother me at all.
The message of the book is so good. I think I needed it. I'm a fixer, just like Emily, and I constantly need to be reminded that there are things that can't be fixed, we just have to learn to live with them.
I only complain a bit about the end. There were some unresolved issues, and I was looking forward to some closure, but I loved this read anyway.
**I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through Netgalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own**
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