When anxiety-prone Rachel Granza learns that her growing sense of emptiness is affecting her relationship with her almost perfect boyfriend and that she’s jeopardizing any possibility of a marriage proposal, she knows she must pull herself out of her funk. But how? A dream apartment in New York City, a thriving psychotherapy practice, and her unique obsessions with topics like the Titanic don’t even make her feel grounded anymore. Red alert!
Trying to find happiness and meaning again—in more than her beloved Italian food—she stumbles into a genealogy mission to discover childhood information about her idol, aka her grandpa, who died years ago. He never spoke about his Italian immigrant past and now she’s determined to find out the reason for his unusual secretiveness.
Rachel’s ancestral roller coaster has roadblocks galore, but she needs the answers to her family’s hidden history. They’re her only hope to know more about her hero, salvage her relationship, and most importantly to save herself.
The Gift (Vintage Vines Series Book 1) highlights: NYC Big Book Awards Chick Lit Winner 2025 PenCraft Fall Best Book Awards Women's Fiction Winner 2025 Readers' Favorite Book Awards Chick Lit Finalist 2025 IAN Book of the Year Awards Women's Fiction Finalist 2025 American Writing Awards Women's Fiction Finalist 2025 Best Book Awards Women's Fiction Finalist 2024 Indies Today Finalist 2024
Besides introducing problems that many of us face and characters that feel genuine, the novel features tantalizing culinary tastes, mesmerizing musical elements, and compelling glimpses into Italian culture. Such sumptuous writing will transport audiences... A blend of flavors and textures that will entice any reader, The Gift is a modern-day midlife adventure about being brave enough to find and follow our passion. - Jennifer Jackson, Indies Today
Rich in Italian culture and little-known pieces of history, The Gift delves deeply into the heartfelt and disturbing sides of relationships with characters so alive their readers will hear their heartbeats, feel their fears, and agonize over the choices they must make—a story of dreams: those that come true, those that change, and those that die. - Barbara Conrey, USA Today Bestselling author of Nowhere Near Goodbye and My Secret to Keep
The Gift is a delightful, heartwarming ode to the Italian-immigrant experience, family, music, wine—and going after one’s dreams. Along with a well-researched, fascinating history of Italian winemaking in Los Angeles and her trademark mouth-watering descriptions of food, C. D’Angelo’s prose sings as she weaves musical notes into her masterful storytelling. I fell in love with the brave, big-hearted, determined Toni, as she wrestles with her competing aspirations and complicated relationships to live a life that feels right to her. A beautiful message of a woman trusting in herself, letting go of what no longer serves her, and forging her own path. The Gift is a must-read in women’s fiction! - Angela Terry, award-winning author of The Palace at Dusk
C. D’Angelo does it again with her knack for bringing the evocative past into the light of the present. The Gift is an empowering, compelling, and moving narrative following one woman as she faces a fork in the road and a life decision that requires a healthy dose of soul searching. This scintillating story grips you from the first page, takes you on an emotional journey, and holds your attention until the very end, leaving you satisfied, inspired, and with the sentiment—sometimes the best gifts are those you give yourself. - Annie Cathryn, multi-award-winning author of The Friendship Breakup
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The Visitor highlights: Next Generation Indie Book Awards Chick Lit Finalist 2023 National Indie Excellence Awards Chick Lit Finalist 2023 Independent Author Network Book of the Year Women's Fiction Finalist 2023 American Writing Awards Women's Fiction Finalist 2023 NYC Big Book Awards Chick Lit Distinguished Favorite 2023 Indies Today Semi-Finalist 2022
The story of a woman who finds inspiration—and love—in the most unexpected places, The Visitor is a novel for anyone who’s longed to understand their history yet carve a different path for their future. C. D’Angelo is a fresh new voice in fiction. - Camille Pagán, bestselling author of Everything Must Go
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The Difference highlights: Next Generation Indie Book Awards Chick Lit Finalist 2022 International Book Awards Women's Fiction Finalist 2002 Best Book Awards Women's Fiction Finalist 2022 New York City Big Book Award Contemporary Novel Distinguished Favorite 2022 Indies Today Semi-Finalist 2021
...C. D'Angelo's The Difference brings together an endearing
So often in the early chapters of this book, I just wanted to give Rachel a hug! I was rooting for her, so I was thrilled to see her grow and come into her own as the story progressed. I really enjoyed seeing Rachel's homeland through her eyes in the second half of the book. And I did not see that twist coming at the end!
It's obvious that C. D'Angelo has a breadth of knowledge about Italian and Italian American customs, as well as ancestry research and therapy, so these aspects of the story were fleshed out and realistic. I learned a lot!
(Thanks to the author for a complimentary ARC of The Difference. All opinions are my own.)
It is SO refreshing to read a book with a flawed main character, who you can’t help but root for as she goes on her journey of self-discovery and healing. Rachel’s flaws, especially as a therapist herself, made her ancestry journey that much more important to the reader. We knew how much she needed it! It was funny and enjoyable to be in Rachel’s head throughout the story. Her obsessions and worries were my own for the time I was reading. I was able to relate to her, and I so badly wanted to see her come out of her shell and get the answers she needed to thrive. I have never researched my own ancestry nor been drawn to the topic, but the author keeps you enthralled! You feel every set back along with Rachel, and you are rooting for her until the very end.
The author draws you into the Italian culture effortlessly, and the descriptions of Italian food were incredible. I wanted to try everything! Food and family were such important parts of this book, and the author truly delivers on those aspects. It was clear she drew on her own life to add to Rachel’s passions. The changes Rachel goes through are so evident and satisfying, and I enjoyed getting to see her progression as a person.
If you are interested in ancestry journeys, growing as a person, and incredible descriptions of Italian culture that truly absorb you, I highly recommend this book! If you are unsure about any of these topics, this book is still perfect for you because the author makes you care just like Rachel does. It might even inspire you to take a closer look at your own interests and to make your own changes in life.
This review is from reading an ARC (Advanced Reader Copy) since the book will be released on 7-29-21.
What a delight to read! From the first chapter, I knew that Rachel Granza and I could be good friends. We both come from Italian families, and we both understand what it feels like when something is missing from our lives. In fact, the more I read, the more I realized that D’Angelo had written a truly authentic character very much like many of the women I know and love. Aside from the spot-on main character, I especially appreciate the details the author provided on everything from the Titanic (Rachel’s obsession) to the genealogical search to the Italian customs and cuisine (much of which took me back to my childhood). And Rachel's boyfriend? It’s refreshing to see a supportive partner like him. This is a charming debut, and I’m looking forward to reading more from C. D’Angelo.
Chalked full of rich Italian flavor mingled with a touch of sass from main character, Rachel. Many of us yearn for a connection to our past, as Rachel does, and I felt myself being drawn into her dilemma. Until she satisfies that connection and finds answers that give her peace, Rachel can’t seal the deal on other relationships in her life just yet.
The reader feels pulled into the drama, suspense, and intense yearning for answers about family identity and culture. I felt myself whispering, “Go get it, girl” and felt the slightest nudge to follow Rachel’s example and go on my own discovery journey!
Oh, and did I mention the “No Way!” plot twist near the end? You’ll have to read it for yourself to find out!
(I wrote this objective review based on an advance reading copy (ARC) that I received.)
I loved this book in so many ways. Anxious psychotherapist Rachel is drawn in such a convincing way, and her journey to self discovery and her family roots is brilliantly executed. The book is divided roughly into two parts, with part one taking place in New York City, and the second part in Italy. The Italian part of the story is very reminiscent of Elizabeth Kostova's THE HISTORIAN, only without vampires, lol. It really spoke to the researcher in me, and I longed to be there myself, following Rachel on her journey. The "Ah-ha!!!" moment that another reviewer mentioned was extremely satisfying. I won't give it away either, but it really ties all the elements of Rachel's character together. This book is a great beach read, and it's absolutely perfect that it's coming out this summer. Five Stars all the way, and I cannot wait to read more from this talented author.
Absolutely loved the book. Enjoyed following Rachel through her journey discovering her family history. Rachel was very relatable and felt I was on the journey with her. Couldn’t put the book down and can’t wait for another book from the author. Highly recommend this book.
You know that sigh you do when you finish a fantastic book? The kind filled with so much love and happiness? C. D'Angelo's The Difference will give you that feeling. I adored this book and loved getting to watch Rachel grow throughout the story. D'Angelo has a way of writing that makes you feel like you are spending time with your best friend. Her prose is beautiful and well, I don't want to spoil anything, but I may have cried happy tears in Part 2 of this lovely book. The ending was incredible and has left me smiling. If you want a book to transport you to Italy, to make your stomach growl with the delicious descriptions of food, and to watch love and family save the day, then this book is for you! A million and one stars for a brilliant and heartfelt read.
I received an ARC for this novel in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
This is a thoroughly enjoyable novel about a young Italian woman’s search for herself as she researched her family’s lineage. It was refreshing to read about a main character as a therapist who was also as flawed as her clients! I loved how her friends, Maggie and Annabelle, supported her on her journey to self-discovery. Also, Brian is a gem of a boyfriend :)
The surprise reveal added a nice twist (I honestly did not see that coming) and all the descriptions of Italian food made my mouth water! I have never been to Italy, so the section that takes place there was especially delightful for me.
Thank you to the author for letting me read an advanced reading copy.
This is an ARC review. The book will be released on 7-29-21. Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an advanced copy I’m exchange for a review.
What a lovely story. I could feel the love the author has for her own grandfather throughout the entire novel. This was a tale of self discovery through family. It also has a very satisfying twist at the end. Definitely recommended to anyone who enjoys ancestry and the journey to finding answers about the past. Bravo!
This was a really interesting read and I enjoyed learning so much about Italian customs and culture during Rachel's journey. The second half of the book was really good and I was SO happy for Rachel and everything she learned and found. The writing style throughout made it feel like you were sitting and talking to a friend. I could definitely relate to Rachel in a few ways.... like how she loved to stay home instead of going out, and reading with her cat Harrison 😆 It's hard to see the cover on my Kindle so swipe to see the book cover!
"I realize overcoming my fear led to great treasure. I need to carry that souvenir home with me for life."
This is a winning read if you enjoy Italian food, genealogy, and quirky characters.
Rachel Granza is a delightfully quirky lead protagonist, ranging from what she names her Titanic Obsessive Disorder, to her angst about her relationship choices, and the irony of a psychologist who doesn’t want to name her struggle as depression.
She’s in search of a sense of belonging in her own identity that I could relate to, and pours her energy--almost to the point of obsession-- into learning about the genealogy of her Italian family. She delves into research, sewing together the threads of her grandfather’s secret history—as a way to source confidence in her own future. Rachel's discoveries give her life new meaning – and as a reader, lead to some lovely surprises along the way.
I’m always excited to read an author’s book early in exchange for an honest review. As an author myself, I love to see where people’s inspiration comes from. C. D'Angelo’s The Difference was clearly inspired by her rich family history and you can feel the love for her deep, family roots on every page. The main character Rachel has an easy-to-read voice and makes the book very relatable. For anyone who is struggling with moving their life forward, this book takes an in-depth look at how understanding your past can help you. Warning: this book will make you hungry for Italian food and might inspire you to take a trip to Italy.
The Difference brings the sounds of Dean Martin, tastes of fresh pasta, and scenes of Northern Italy right to your cozy reading chair. It pairs perfectly with a glass of red wine and sugar dusted pizzelles. And the depictions of Italy had me checking current flights to Genoa.
But this story is more than a wonderful excuse to plan a trip to Italy while gorging on pappardelle.
From the first pages, I rooted for Rachel Granza as she battles that haunting feeling of indifference. It’s hard to imagine being depressed when you have a fulfilling job, supportive boyfriend, and cuddly cat, but C. D’Angelo addresses depression with an authentic lens making Rachel an honest, relatable character. Following Rachel through her setbacks and triumphs is a rewarding journey that inspires perseverance in our own daily grind.
This debut was a page turner and I’m excited for future works by C. D’Angelo.
* Appreciation to the author for an Advanced Reader Copy of The Difference. All opinions are my own. *
In The Difference, D’Angelo addresses a very human need to know where we came from and why we do what we do in a heartwarming debut that will reawaken your desire to discover your own history.
Main character Rachel Granza, despite her profession as a therapist, is delightfully flawed and unable to come into her own until she tracks down the secrets of her beloved grandfather, which leads the reader through a wonderful journey where Rachel’s story began: in Italy
And there is a twist. And you will not see it coming.
Looking forward to this author’s next endeavor and also recipes for the superb Italian food that takes on the depth and weight of another character in the book.
I received an Advanced Reader's Copy of this book.
What an incredible debut novel! I loved everything about this book! I instantly felt connected to the main character, Rachel and I loved how the story was told from her perspective! Her inner dialogue was relatable, funny, and so honest. I really related to her struggle with anxiety as it’s something that I struggle with daily. I’m so glad the author incorporated mental health topics into the book. I loved going along with Rachel as she dives into her family ancestry. I know you will be as invested & intrigued by it as I was! It’s not an easy process for her, but it was so satisfying to see her journey of self discovery & growth. I also loved learning more about the Italian culture. This book gave me chills, made me tear up, and made me smile! You’ll definitely want to read it! ❤️
Thank you so much to C. D’Angelo & SuzyApprovedBookTours for the advanced reader copy.
This was a phenomenal debut! I just wanted to give Rachel a big hug, and tell her she’s not alone. I could easily identify with her, from being a homebody to having an obsession with the Titanic. I adored all the Italian culture nestled in the pages, and I was constantly hungry for the delicious Italian dishes that were described. Truly, don’t read this one on an empty stomach! Rachel’s growth throughout the story was beautiful, and while I did guess the big twist, it was so cool so watch the pieces come together for Rachel. This is the perfect book to curl up with on a rainy day!
Thank you so much to the author @ for the gifted ARC. This book will be available July 29.
I now understand what triggering means. This felt like someone was in my head, granted an Italian version of me lol but I understood the anxiety. The battle with self doubt and just not being sure where you stand in relationships and in the world In general. The quest for SELF. It was well written and immersive with description that almost made the scents of pastries and pasta waft off the pages. I started and stopped reading several times because it was actually emotionally difficult for me to read straight through, so much resonated with me. The constant internal battles, the arguments in your head that never quite play out the same in reality, the Depression and just everything. It was a really good story, simultaneously heavy and light if that makes sense. Well done!
Rachel Granza is a psychotherapist living in NYC. She has the perfect boyfriend, but deep inside, something is missing. Rachel's grandfather was her hero. An Italian American immigrant who didn't speak about his past or where he came from. It prompts Rachel to start a journey of discovery. She sets out to find out more about her grandfather and discover her roots. And maybe find a missing piece of herself. This story has all the feels. I could so easily relate to Rachel. We all want to know who and where we come from. I really enjoyed this journey of discovery. There was a twist I never saw coming. What a good read this was.
This was a great poolside read! I felt for Rachel as she recognized something just wasn’t right in her world. I understand feeling like where is the joy in my life? What will make me happy? How can I get back to me? I’ve definitely felt like this before, so relatable!
The family mystery and researching her roots was intriguing. I loved learning more about Italy and all the food references. My mouth was watering as I was reading.
The ending was satisfying and I love how it all tied together. A fantastic debut!
This charming debut novel takes us along for the rollercoaster ride as Rachel discovers who she really is and what she really wants. On the surface, she knows she should be content. She shares her lovely NY apartment with a near-perfect boyfriend and a perfect cat. She has a great job which she loves. She comes from a happy family - well, bar the snarky brother. And she has a wonderful, fun, outgoing, got your back best friend. Yet Rachel is far from happy. She's restless, quick to be hurt, and bordering on depression. The one thing which really spikes her interest is learning about the Titanic, as this is 2012 and it's been a 100 years since the sinking. One thing Rachel knows, is that it's all gotten worse since the death of her beloved Grandpa, who emigrated with his brother and father in the early 20th c from Italy. The family are still very Italian - they eat a lot of gorgeous sounding Italian food, hold to Italian religious traditions and in every way celebrate their heritage. C D'Angelo's descriptions of family life were very visual, almost like she knows this kind of life very well herself! Then Rachel stumbles on a family history search site, and finds she has a new lease of life. Old family mysteries surface around Grandpa's arrival in the US which she determines to track down. It's clear C D'Angelo has done a lot of family history research, and her character's ups and downs in this regard ring very true. What I loved best however, was when Rachel travels to Italy to find those elusive details which the official records don't hold. The descriptions of Genoa are lovely, especially the way in which Rachel delights in each new vista and experience. And the discoveries she makes there extend far beyond solving family mysteries. A satisfying read with a highly relatable protagonist.
If you have been following me, you know I Iove to support Indie Authors and I'm happy to be here supporting another Indie book today. I made a commitment in June to read at least one per month and this is already book 5!
In The Difference, Rachel Granza is a therapist who tends to not use her professional skills in her own life. She suffers from anxiety and depression and easily gets into a reclusive funk and pulls away. Sadly, I found her relatable. Especially during this last 1.5 years where socializing has pretty much stopped. I tend to go even more inward and shut down. Of course I know it is not good, but yet I spiral.
In The Difference, Rachel finds a passion project in researching her ancestors which pulls her out of her funk and renews her energy about life. It also helps bring her closer to her boyfriend.
One thing is for sure, all the talk of amazing Italian food made me hungry and made me inspired to get back to cooking. I made homemade pasta on Sunday, even though that's typicallly reserved for fall and winter. Although not Italian, I definitely can get on board with their large Sunday dinners. Sadly my pasta was an epic failure as I tried to make a gluten free version because of my daughter's special diet. That is a story for another day but just a tip, gluten is good for pasta making 🤣
Anyhoo... back to the book. I loved Rachel's connection to her culture, her family and friends and most especially with her late grandfather. Theirs was a special bond which you could feel through her stories.
The ending to this book came together in a pretty amazing way which made the story even better.
We probably don’t think of our grandparents as having a history or even a real life in the time before they step into their roles as our companions, playmates and confidants. As children, we don’t give much thought to when they were younger as it seems so long ago. But then as adults we begin to wonder about their lives “in the olden days”. This book is about that “wonder” which takes Rachel on a journey to find the story of her beloved grandfather. Rachel‘s journey, both physical and psychological is vividly detailed through interesting locations, mouthwatering food, and wide-ranging emotions. We watch as Rachel matures into her own life story and her Italian heritage to become a person whom her grandfather would look upon with pride. Descriptive and evocative, with a hint of the mysterious, this novel creates real pictures of New York City, Philadelphia and Italy making the reader feel like they are traveling, eating, and discovering right beside Rachel.
The Difference belongs in your beach bag, tucked away on vacation, or by your coziest reading nook! It reads more like main character, Rachel’s, personal journal and you find yourself rooting for her from the first page. It’s an effortless read and relatable on so many levels.
If you love family and ancestral mysteries, adore the sights and sounds of Italy, and can connect with slightly flawed, but lovable characters, The Difference is for you!
I smelled the espresso, tasted the freshly baked bread, and felt at home in Grandpa’s garden filled with ripe tomatoes.
I read this book as an ARC. Book will be released on July 29. This is such a relatable and meaningful story. It read like I was having a conversation with the main character which felt charming, and I feel this is a refreshing style of writing by the author. The knowledge of her passions is evident and fascinating. I am adding C. D’Angelo to my list of authors to continue reading and hope to get the opportunity to read another in advance.
What you’ll love in The Difference: – An anxious psychotherapist who’s clueless about herself – Having it all in life, but feeling empty – Italian culture, including food, traditions, values, celebrations…so much! – Ancestry and genealogy – Immigrant stories and history – Family secrets – A shaky romantic relationship – The Titanic – Armchair travel- New York, Philadelphia, Orlando and maybe more…
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Rachel Granza has her hot boyfriend, Brian, a cuddly cat named Harrison, a good job, and she loves all things related to the Titanic. So why is she struggling with anxiety and feelings of emptiness in her life? Is it because she’s waiting for Brian to propose?
Rachel makes a list of things she and Brian need to discuss (𝘙𝘢𝘤𝘩𝘦𝘭 𝘭𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦 𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘴). Apparently, Brian feels something is missing in Rachel’s life too - something he can’t fill.
Searching for what makes her happy, her late grandpa pops into her head; he was always her hero. Then Rachel stumbles across an ancestry site. Just by typing in her grandfather’s name, a new journey begins for Rachel that will take her across the ocean to Italy. Not only does she meet relatives, but Rachel discovers a deep family secret that connects her to her grandpa more than ever.
Rachel is a very relatable character. We all get into ruts, many of us struggle with anxiety, and like Rachel, we feel like something is missing in life. It was fun to watch Rachel and Brian hunt down clues about her grandpa together. 𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐃𝐢𝐟𝐟𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 is a sweet story about family with a touch of romance and bursting with Italian food.
Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours and @c.dangelo.author for an invitation to the tour and a gifted copy.
I absolutely LOVED this book. Rachel was such a relatable character, on so many levels. She is a very anxious person and feels as though something is missing in her life. Her feelings begin to carry over into her relationship, so she decides to go to Italy to find out more about her family’s history. The food!! Oh my gosh…the food. This foodie was salivating!! Lol. Such a great book, and I absolutely loved the characters. Can’t wait to read more by this author.
Rachel Granza has lost her mojo, and she finds it again by digging into a long-lost family history. The Difference offers the chance to be a fly on the wall and reap the benefit of her work without having to do it yourself. The book really takes off when she heads for Italy. D'Angelo's love of Italian food and Italian heritage shines through.
The Difference is a love song to Italy and its delectable food. Reading this debut felt as if Rachel, D’Angelo’s protagonist, was personally telling me the story of her search for her beloved grandpa’s past. Those fascinated by genealogy will enjoy this story. Be prepared to be hungry as you read.
A thoroughly entertaining debut novel, “The Difference” relies heavily on the beloved family stereotype: family, secrets, food, and for most of the novel, more food.