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Italian Lessons
After a prestigious education on Manhattan’s Upper East Side and a degree from the Yale School of Architecture, Margherita tries to find her place in various cities, from her own metropolis of New York to the hills of San Francisco. It isn't until she accepts a new position in Italy that things finally fall into place. In Milan, she has a fabulous job, new friends, a sense of belonging, and the interesting, adventurous lifestyle she had long aspired to. Charming European men who wine, dine, and tempt her add to the fun, and she finally feels the blissful freedom she’s been seeking.
When a fateful event forces Margherita to suddenly abandon the life she built in Italy and return to Manhattan, she finds herself navigating yet another transition, and this one is not pointing to a brighter future. With a stripped-down spirit and a cunning boss, she is once again faced with a feeling of loss and loneliness, and she enters into a secret, unruly affair that threatens to peel away her protective layers. The sense of belonging she felt in Italy disappears, and she is forced to reinvent her life with her less than perfect reality.
Italian Lessons explores the landscape of the mid-twenties: the torturous state of out-of-sync lust and love, the guilt of establishing yourself away from family, the quest for fulfillment in work and in friendships, and the yearning to understand where you feel most yourself, with whom, and why. With wit, laughter, and tears, Margherita learns to reconcile her journey between two very different cultures, all the while discovering the difference between mistakes worth making and those that are irreversible.
When a fateful event forces Margherita to suddenly abandon the life she built in Italy and return to Manhattan, she finds herself navigating yet another transition, and this one is not pointing to a brighter future. With a stripped-down spirit and a cunning boss, she is once again faced with a feeling of loss and loneliness, and she enters into a secret, unruly affair that threatens to peel away her protective layers. The sense of belonging she felt in Italy disappears, and she is forced to reinvent her life with her less than perfect reality.
Italian Lessons explores the landscape of the mid-twenties: the torturous state of out-of-sync lust and love, the guilt of establishing yourself away from family, the quest for fulfillment in work and in friendships, and the yearning to understand where you feel most yourself, with whom, and why. With wit, laughter, and tears, Margherita learns to reconcile her journey between two very different cultures, all the while discovering the difference between mistakes worth making and those that are irreversible.
- GenresFictionContemporary
492 pages, Paperback
Published July 29, 2021
28 people are currently reading
3260 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
August 29, 2021
I loved this book from the first page. I continued to read it voraciously and finished it reaching for the kleenex and sobbing as I turned the final pages. Apart from the beautiful read, this authentic novel makes one wonder how much really is fiction as often it feels like you are reading a personal memoir or diary. One of the things though that I most appreciated as an ex-pat who has lived in Italy for over 20 years, was the fact that it is blatantly obvious the author has spent a lot of time in Italy. It is refreshing to read a novel of this genre where you feel transported into the streets and locations she writs about, but also to feel an authenticity to the story telling and not just a whimsical ideal of what life in Italy is.
May 13, 2022
4.5 rounded up. An interesting book to get lost in. The writing is sophisticated, stylistic and sensory. Surprisingly, only the very first part takes place in Italy. Then we move to New York City where we spend much of our time reading text messages between characters. While I was expecting more of an Italian experience, I actually found myself even more engaged in the latter part of the book, where we gain insight into the psychology of dating. I am looking forward to reading future books by this very talented author.
March 23, 2023
Here is an accurate summary of the book: the main character goes after men who are in relationships, too old for her, or married. That’s it. Instead of making friends, she’s obsessed with chasing unavailable men. Think of the most annoying friend you know in real life when it comes to dating (the one you have to yell at to stop texting fuck boys). That’s Margherita. I really did not like Margherita. I found her to be a very pretentious, pick-me girl and her way of flirting was bizarre. I also found it bizarre that she would speak in Italian to men in NY that literally did not speak Italian - why are you saying shit to someone in a language they don’t understand? It’s not sexy, it’s annoying and weird. She complains about not having girlfriends, but the reason why she doesn’t have girlfriends is because she’s so pretentious and boy crazy. She’s really just the most frustrating main character I’ve read about in a long time; she gets mad at men with girlfriends that she’s seeing for not loving her. Like yeah, what did you expect, you knew he had a girlfriend when you started sleeping with him. When she has to come back to NY, she dates men in relationships and goes to bars, then complains she misses Italy and her routine. But guess what her routine was in Italy? Going to bars and dating men in relationships.
Don’t get me wrong - I’m not the kind of person that sees the woman as a “homewrecker” or whatever. If you want to sleep with a guy and he’s in a relationship, that’s his fault for ruining the relationship, not the girl’s. But like I said earlier, you can’t knowingly date a dude in a relationship and then be confused why he won’t leave his girlfriend for you. You’re letting him have his cake and eat it too. I guess the bright side of this book is that it sets realistic expectations; there’s no fairytale ending.
The book needed better editing and was missing commas everywhere. I kept getting ads for this book on Instagram and I was excited to read it as I love books that take place in Italy. I feel but for knocking on this book as I’m sure the author put a lot of love and effort into it but I can’t recommend it. It had a lot of potential though.
Don’t get me wrong - I’m not the kind of person that sees the woman as a “homewrecker” or whatever. If you want to sleep with a guy and he’s in a relationship, that’s his fault for ruining the relationship, not the girl’s. But like I said earlier, you can’t knowingly date a dude in a relationship and then be confused why he won’t leave his girlfriend for you. You’re letting him have his cake and eat it too. I guess the bright side of this book is that it sets realistic expectations; there’s no fairytale ending.
The book needed better editing and was missing commas everywhere. I kept getting ads for this book on Instagram and I was excited to read it as I love books that take place in Italy. I feel but for knocking on this book as I’m sure the author put a lot of love and effort into it but I can’t recommend it. It had a lot of potential though.
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October 31, 2021
This was the perfect holiday read. Sun, romance and not too heavy.
Margherita is trying to find her way in the world. She is in her late twenties and fighting against the social prejudices placed on young women to get married and start a family. Instead, Margherita seeks belonging, a companionship, independence and most of all fun, which is what she is beginning to explore whilst living in Italy.
However, when a tragic event happens and she is forced to return home to New York, she tries to reestablish the lifestyle she had created in Italy for herself all over again.
The book follows a flitting timeline over a couple of years. This enabled us to see into Margherita’s past and learn what led her to move to Italy. We were also able to see how Margherita grew and how her mindset changed throughout the book. I do wish that we were given a bit more insight to her childhood and upbringing, to understand how her relation with her mother (and brother at times) became constrained.
At times I found Margherita quite frustrating in the choices she made but in the end I liked how she wasn’t a typically ‘perfect’ protagonist. By the end, I was rooting for her and accepted her flaws. She was honest and although she seemed fiercely strong and independent, you could see beneath the walls she had built to protect herself.
Finally, I’m so glad I saved this one for when I was abroad as it will most certainly make you want to travel. The descriptions of Italy were so visceral that I’ve added new destinations to my bucket list.
A huge thank you to the author for gifting me my copy!
Margherita is trying to find her way in the world. She is in her late twenties and fighting against the social prejudices placed on young women to get married and start a family. Instead, Margherita seeks belonging, a companionship, independence and most of all fun, which is what she is beginning to explore whilst living in Italy.
However, when a tragic event happens and she is forced to return home to New York, she tries to reestablish the lifestyle she had created in Italy for herself all over again.
The book follows a flitting timeline over a couple of years. This enabled us to see into Margherita’s past and learn what led her to move to Italy. We were also able to see how Margherita grew and how her mindset changed throughout the book. I do wish that we were given a bit more insight to her childhood and upbringing, to understand how her relation with her mother (and brother at times) became constrained.
At times I found Margherita quite frustrating in the choices she made but in the end I liked how she wasn’t a typically ‘perfect’ protagonist. By the end, I was rooting for her and accepted her flaws. She was honest and although she seemed fiercely strong and independent, you could see beneath the walls she had built to protect herself.
Finally, I’m so glad I saved this one for when I was abroad as it will most certainly make you want to travel. The descriptions of Italy were so visceral that I’ve added new destinations to my bucket list.
A huge thank you to the author for gifting me my copy!
February 20, 2023
I cannot recommend this book enough to the women struggling their way through their 20s, trying to find their footing in a world that feels like pure chaos most of the time. There’s some sort of magic laced through the language in this book that makes all those very real, young adult feelings - ones of loneliness, and confusion, and the sense of being “out of place” - feel normal, and okay. It is refreshing, and comforting knowing that this is how we’re supposed to feel while navigating through early adulthood, and the story of Margherita is delivered in such a beautiful and personal way that any young woman would be able to relate to her struggles, and the intricate relationships she forms throughout the book.
I knew just by the stunning cover and the brief description that it was going to be the perfect summer read, but I didn’t realise at the time just how much of an affect it would have on me.
I’ve since given it to my younger sister and two best friends, knowing that they’ll appreciate it just as much as I did. If you’re looking for a book to transport you to the little seaside villages of Italy, and the bustling nightlife of New York, all while tugging at heartstrings and highlighting just how normal it is to feel disoriented during your 20s, I cannot recommend it more. Isabetta writes exquisitely, I can’t wait to get my hands on the sequel!
I knew just by the stunning cover and the brief description that it was going to be the perfect summer read, but I didn’t realise at the time just how much of an affect it would have on me.
I’ve since given it to my younger sister and two best friends, knowing that they’ll appreciate it just as much as I did. If you’re looking for a book to transport you to the little seaside villages of Italy, and the bustling nightlife of New York, all while tugging at heartstrings and highlighting just how normal it is to feel disoriented during your 20s, I cannot recommend it more. Isabetta writes exquisitely, I can’t wait to get my hands on the sequel!
September 19, 2022
I can't think of a more perfect book for girls in their twenties struggling to find themselves in a new place. It delves into relationships with boys, self, friends, and family. In addition, it discusses the struggles of trying to find oneself in a career and new city.
I love how real the book was. You weren't given this completely unrealistic happily ever after it. Instead, it was real and raw and reflected life all too well. This book took so many situations and feelings I have felt in my twenties and woven them into a beautiful story where I could identify with Margherita (the main character) on every page.
I also may be biased, as my favorite places in the world are New York and Italy, but each page gave such a beautiful description that you felt you were there. From the seaside dinners in Italy to the Van Lewwen Ice Cream Shop in Soho, you were instantly transported.
10/10 Would recommend - Giving it to my sister next who lives abroad. I can't wait for her to read:)
I love how real the book was. You weren't given this completely unrealistic happily ever after it. Instead, it was real and raw and reflected life all too well. This book took so many situations and feelings I have felt in my twenties and woven them into a beautiful story where I could identify with Margherita (the main character) on every page.
I also may be biased, as my favorite places in the world are New York and Italy, but each page gave such a beautiful description that you felt you were there. From the seaside dinners in Italy to the Van Lewwen Ice Cream Shop in Soho, you were instantly transported.
10/10 Would recommend - Giving it to my sister next who lives abroad. I can't wait for her to read:)
April 24, 2023
The perfect summer read, especially if you have a vacation (particularly an Italian one) on the books. It’s beautifully written and transports you to new places. I’m already planning on devouring it again this summer.
March 26, 2024
While I did not like Margherita as a character, people like her undoubtedly exist. This novel was a great reflection of what it is like to be misunderstood and to misunderstand yourself while young. I have definitely felt like her before but I hope to mature at a faster rate, because hers seems like a very complicated life. I guess we’ll see what happens, I’ve got a long way to go…
On another note, I appreciated the Italian phrases here and there that complemented the English narration. It was a helpful way to learn the language. Definitely a great book to read on vacation. I was fortunate enough to find this in a used book store in NYC, where much of the story is set. I look forward to reading more from the wonderful Isabetta Andolini.
Ho imperato molto da lei, grazie mille
On another note, I appreciated the Italian phrases here and there that complemented the English narration. It was a helpful way to learn the language. Definitely a great book to read on vacation. I was fortunate enough to find this in a used book store in NYC, where much of the story is set. I look forward to reading more from the wonderful Isabetta Andolini.
Ho imperato molto da lei, grazie mille
January 9, 2023
After reading so many positive reviews and identifying personally with the synopsis of Italian Lessons, I decided to give it a try. I finished the book in two days and could hardly put it down. It is filled with vivid descriptions that capture the simple magic that occurs everyday when we find ourselves exploring a new place, undeterred by things that may have previously held us back. Sophisticated yet fluid and fun to read, Isabetta has the reader completely enveloped in Margherita’s world. I would recommend this to anyone who has experienced life abroad, feels most alive and at home in a place that is miles and miles away from one’s hometown, or has dealt with the difficult navigation of balancing family, friends, work, and of course, love. I look forward to reading the sequel. Thank you, Isabetta, for creating such an exciting and thought provoking escape!
September 22, 2021
“Italian lessons” is definitely my cup of tea. Or should I say a cup of strong Italian espresso?! Spot-on descriptions of the ambiance of presently trendy places in both Milan and New York City, made it easy to visualize every move the characters made. The author's humorous slant on many scenes created another dimension to the characters, allowing us readers a glimpse inside their heads. From the witty conversations that will have you turning pages, to the families involved, the author paints an amazing picture of intrigue.
The ending left me eager to start off on the next adventure with Margherita ...Hopefully, very soon!
The ending left me eager to start off on the next adventure with Margherita ...Hopefully, very soon!
November 8, 2021
Loved this book and how it transported me to the streets of Milan and New York. It reminded me of my first travels to Italy and I empathised with Margherita as she navigated her way around the Italian culture and its men. You'll love her attitude to life and while she comes across at times as a modern, independent young woman, you'll want to give her a hug at the moments when she is at her most fragile and vulnerable. I also felt like giving her a good shake at times!
This is a fun easy read and if you know Milan or want to, you could follow Margherita's footsteps to see the very beautiful and fashionable side of this city!
This is a fun easy read and if you know Milan or want to, you could follow Margherita's footsteps to see the very beautiful and fashionable side of this city!
July 12, 2022
I felt totally lost in Isabetta Andolini's book. I am an Italian living in New York previously living in Milan. Italian Lessons is a detailed description of the European and American life with its pro and cons. Isabetta has been able to describe all shades of Milano, its habits, its people, the beauty of La Dolce Vita as well as the energy of New York where sometimes it gets hard to live in, especially for the lack of the "real" human relations. The story of a twenty something years old girl that struggles to find a place called Home. I found this book amazing and perfect to be read on a sun bed on the beach.. I really hope Isabetta will delight us with a sequel!
June 30, 2022
This was a truly beautiful book. I loved every minute of reading it, and was disappointed when it ended. It had some stunning scenery, which has made me book a weekend away to Italy for my birthday! It was so well written that I could really picture it like I was really there. Margherita is very relatable, a lot more than your typical protagonist, which is why I think I enjoyed it so much. It talks very candidly of sex, losing and finding your way in the world, and just generally the trials and tribulations of transitioning into adulthood
September 21, 2022
A truly enthralling tale of the highs and lows that embody your 20s. I cannot recommend this book enough. Andolini perfectly encapsulates the sites, scents, and feelings that surround all of the places she so eloquently describes. It is easy to relate to Marghe as she struggles with friendships, family, and finding oneself. I finished the book with tears in my eyes. What an incredible coming of age tale of love and loss and hope and LIFE. A true tell-your-sister-or-best-friend-to-pick-up-ASAP kind of read. Cannot wait for the sequel.
November 14, 2022
I am so incredibly glad I happened to stumble across this book! It is a wonderful exploration of how the modern woman navigates the changes and pressures of her world and the ability of relationships to mould someone’s identity! The idea of self-exploration in your younger years is so important and makes this book so valuable to read, not to mention the truly gorgeous Italian scenery embedded throughout the novel that allows one to almost travel alongside Margherita (The protagonist). Would definitely recommend to give it a read :)
October 3, 2021
This is the kind of book that gets under your skin without you realizing. It is simultaneously cheeky and heartfelt, fun and fast-paced while also really sincere. It is the kind of ‘I’ve been in that situation’ story, in some way or another, and the ending came too fast. I so badly wanted to know how the main character picked herself up and what was next. I definitely recommend it!
July 17, 2022
This book is fantastic! It is a perfect summer read - the writing is elegant and beautifully detailed. The author does an incredible job at detailing life in Milan and in New York. It is sophisticated and very real. The main protagonist is extremely relatable. I savored every page of this book, I didn’t want it to end. I cannot wait to read it again and more so for the sequel.
November 10, 2022
Bellissima!
This book was extremely relatable as a New Yorker (late 30s) who has recently traveled to Italy and London. The dating scene, the conversations with friends, and the bars picked in NYC were spot on! Loved this book and I would highly recommend to others. Can’t wait for the next one! 💚💚💚
This book was extremely relatable as a New Yorker (late 30s) who has recently traveled to Italy and London. The dating scene, the conversations with friends, and the bars picked in NYC were spot on! Loved this book and I would highly recommend to others. Can’t wait for the next one! 💚💚💚
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January 12, 2023Easily one of the best books I’ve ever read! Being in my mid twenties myself, I really resonated with the personal struggles of margherita in her love life as well as her family life. I think it’s a must read for anyone that’s in their twenties. Definitely a very different perspective and the way that Isabetta articulated the novel was incredible! Brava!
August 25, 2022
One of the best books I have read
March 3, 2024
I got so lost in this…I am so sad it’s over but loved the writing, and I will always appreciate anything set in New York. Even though I couldn’t totally relate to Margherita, I felt for her and was inspired by the lessons she learned. Being a woman in your 20s…in this city…tough!!! But also the time can be very fun and fulfilling :)
July 17, 2022
This was a quick, nice read. If you are at all enchanted with Italy and Italian culture I recommend. I just loved the descriptions of Italy and the incorporation of the language. By the end I felt very invested in Margherita’s journey.
September 2, 2022
I loved this book! Could not put it down. Felt deeply personal and relatable at times - between the texting conversations and the emphasis on careers and ambition and desire. And the descriptions of Italy - specifically Milan were just gorgeous. Loved!!!
January 14, 2023
In need of a trip? Italian Lessons offers the perfect dip of escapism. Mirror Margherita as she embraces life in iconic cities: Milan to New York to San Fran. Isabetta left us craving seconds… and I hear she’s ready to serve.
August 12, 2021
Loved this novel. I liked the Italian atmosphere, the feelings and challenges that Margherita has to face and the strength she shows. Well written, the perfect summer read.
March 20, 2022
this book is perfect in every way.
October 5, 2022
Gorgeous.
March 23, 2025
Through each setting, interaction, and relationship, Isabetta asks the most pertinent questions that (I think) every woman asks herself throughout life. This is a gripping, beautiful, authentic story that makes you feel seen. The visuals and sensory immersion (Italy was my absolute favorite) transfixed me.
June 21, 2022
This book transported me into an entirely new lifestyle. I felt like I was there, living all the same experiences as Margherita.
Margherita is a highly educated and highly ambitious individual. Living in New York for so long, she decides it’s time for a change - Italy. Margherita absolutely thrives in her new life, experiencing the Italian culture, meeting a few potential love interests, and making amazing friends along the way. What she doesn’t realize, however, is New York is not quite finished with her. Things take a turn while she’s in Italy, and Margherita is forced to return to her old life, attempting to continue reinventing herself.
This book is like Gossip Girl and Emily Meet’s Paris had a baby. The prestige, gossip, lifestyle, and culture is so well written.
Time for me to book a trip to Italy now!
Margherita is a highly educated and highly ambitious individual. Living in New York for so long, she decides it’s time for a change - Italy. Margherita absolutely thrives in her new life, experiencing the Italian culture, meeting a few potential love interests, and making amazing friends along the way. What she doesn’t realize, however, is New York is not quite finished with her. Things take a turn while she’s in Italy, and Margherita is forced to return to her old life, attempting to continue reinventing herself.
This book is like Gossip Girl and Emily Meet’s Paris had a baby. The prestige, gossip, lifestyle, and culture is so well written.
Time for me to book a trip to Italy now!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews