What do you think?
Rate this book
We'll Always Have Venice
Who can resist the romance of Venice…
When Norah arrives in Venice for a ten-week internship she is surprised to discover that her guide for her work trips around the lagoon is the undeniably gorgeous and kind Gianluca. She can’t help thinking he might be too good to be true, with his endless fascinating local stories, and his infectious laugh.
Norah is still bitter after an accident left her with a serious injury and also meant the end of her long-term relationship. And besides, she's serious about her career and that means leaving Venice at the end of the summer.
Gianluca has had a summer fling before that led to heartache for him and he won't do it again. He enjoys the long hours out on the lagoon with Norah, but after a storm strands them on a picture-perfect island for a night, they agree they should just be good friends for the summer.
But life doesn't always go to plan, and when it's time for Norah to go, they have to decide whether what they have between them is really just a friendship, and not something more…
When Norah arrives in Venice for a ten-week internship she is surprised to discover that her guide for her work trips around the lagoon is the undeniably gorgeous and kind Gianluca. She can’t help thinking he might be too good to be true, with his endless fascinating local stories, and his infectious laugh.
Norah is still bitter after an accident left her with a serious injury and also meant the end of her long-term relationship. And besides, she's serious about her career and that means leaving Venice at the end of the summer.
Gianluca has had a summer fling before that led to heartache for him and he won't do it again. He enjoys the long hours out on the lagoon with Norah, but after a storm strands them on a picture-perfect island for a night, they agree they should just be good friends for the summer.
But life doesn't always go to plan, and when it's time for Norah to go, they have to decide whether what they have between them is really just a friendship, and not something more…
346 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 28, 2022
237 people are currently reading
454 people want to read
About the author
Leonie Mack
22 books221 followersAfter leaving Australia ‘for a year’, Leonie never went home and now travels across Europe jotting down love stories wherever she goes. She has a degree in languages and is an expert at taking public transport and travelling under her own steam on foot or by bike. ‘Home’ is now in central Germany, in the vineyards along the Main river, where she spends her time writing happy endings in English and speaking German with bad grammar.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
May 7, 2022
The author clearly writes with a passion for creating the best characters possible.
They are exciting and come alive on the pages.
Great storytelling, the vivid descriptions make Venice come alive. You'll feel as though you are there but don't forget to bring your sunscreen.
So uplifting that I'm thinking about this book even when I'm not reading it!
Brilliantly written, now I have to see what else the author has out.
I recommend this to you!
Pub Date 28 Apr 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All expressions expressed are my own.
They are exciting and come alive on the pages.
Great storytelling, the vivid descriptions make Venice come alive. You'll feel as though you are there but don't forget to bring your sunscreen.
So uplifting that I'm thinking about this book even when I'm not reading it!
Brilliantly written, now I have to see what else the author has out.
I recommend this to you!
Pub Date 28 Apr 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All expressions expressed are my own.
March 8, 2022
In a destination with a reputation for romance, can two people be ‘just friends?’
After an injury that left her with pins in her back and reliant on a cane, marine biologist and 25-year-old Norah York, is determined to get her science career back on track. When a 10-week internship opportunity to study the Venetian lagoon arises, she steps out on her own leaving Bridezilla’s (her mom) drama and her sister’s overly attentive care behind. It doesn’t take too long in Venice before she knows she’s made the right choice. It’s everything she needed; a distraction-free environment…that is, until she meets the perfect guy. The distraction? A gondolier and craftsman! Gianluca is a remèr (Venetian oar maker) and one of four forcola-makers in Venice. He’s been allocated to transporting Norah around the lagoon for the duration of the stay. Don’t let this hunk fool you - he’s got brains between those ears. Once these two get past their baggage, can they be friends?
I absolutely LOVED this swoon-worthy romance! Boiled down, it’s a friendship pact that goes horribly wrong. The banter between the two main characters is spectacular as is the romantic chemistry and tension. I loved the sarcasm and witty exchanges and could easily see myself spending time with these two people. I also like the serendipitous phoenix in the adornment above Norah’s door! Most of all, I loved the fact that Norah is a STEM heroine. There are so few romance books written with intelligent females. I think I shouted a loud “YES!” when I discovered Norah’s career focus. Gianluca is the perfect distraction; a laid back craftsman hero hiding a physics degree. A slight foot in the open door regarding the romance - three ‘only-one-bed’ scenes - yet, tastefully written.
I’d only read a few chapters when I paused and ordered up Leonie Mack’s prequel to this one, ‘A Match Made In Venice.’ I know I’ll be reading them out of order, but I’m assured it won’t confuse me. You need to put this armchair travel through the Venetian lagoon on your reading list ASAP!
I was gifted this advance copy by Leonie Mack, Boldwood Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
After an injury that left her with pins in her back and reliant on a cane, marine biologist and 25-year-old Norah York, is determined to get her science career back on track. When a 10-week internship opportunity to study the Venetian lagoon arises, she steps out on her own leaving Bridezilla’s (her mom) drama and her sister’s overly attentive care behind. It doesn’t take too long in Venice before she knows she’s made the right choice. It’s everything she needed; a distraction-free environment…that is, until she meets the perfect guy. The distraction? A gondolier and craftsman! Gianluca is a remèr (Venetian oar maker) and one of four forcola-makers in Venice. He’s been allocated to transporting Norah around the lagoon for the duration of the stay. Don’t let this hunk fool you - he’s got brains between those ears. Once these two get past their baggage, can they be friends?
I absolutely LOVED this swoon-worthy romance! Boiled down, it’s a friendship pact that goes horribly wrong. The banter between the two main characters is spectacular as is the romantic chemistry and tension. I loved the sarcasm and witty exchanges and could easily see myself spending time with these two people. I also like the serendipitous phoenix in the adornment above Norah’s door! Most of all, I loved the fact that Norah is a STEM heroine. There are so few romance books written with intelligent females. I think I shouted a loud “YES!” when I discovered Norah’s career focus. Gianluca is the perfect distraction; a laid back craftsman hero hiding a physics degree. A slight foot in the open door regarding the romance - three ‘only-one-bed’ scenes - yet, tastefully written.
I’d only read a few chapters when I paused and ordered up Leonie Mack’s prequel to this one, ‘A Match Made In Venice.’ I know I’ll be reading them out of order, but I’m assured it won’t confuse me. You need to put this armchair travel through the Venetian lagoon on your reading list ASAP!
I was gifted this advance copy by Leonie Mack, Boldwood Books and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
May 11, 2022
I was so excited to read We’ll Always Have Venice by Leonie Mack, especially after reading about Norah, the protagonist, when she was introduced in Meet Me in Venice. This story follows Norah, who travels to Venice on a ten-week internship to study algae in Venetian lagoons. Determined to get her career as a microbiologist back on track after suffering a spinal injury over a year ago, Norah uses this internship opportunity to start over. However, when she meets the handsome craftsman who has been hired to guide Norah on her excursions, her plans might just change.
Gianluca vowed never to have a summer romance again, especially after the disaterous relationship in his past. However, he didn’t expect to be so taken by the intelligent and funny Norah. Can these two people with very different lives and goals find their happily ever after?
Venice is the main backdrop to the story, and it is so vividly described that you almost feel like you’re there. The author swept me away with Didi’s story in Meet Me in Venice, and I was delighted to fall back into the magic of this wonderful city. Venice is so rich with character, and it’s a place I’ve always dreamed of visiting. This book reaffirms my need to go there! It sounds amazing, and it’s the perfect backdrop for Norah and Gianluca’s love story. From the unique islands to the peaceful lagoons to the gorgeous spots throughout Venice, there is a charm and beauty that jumps from the page.
Gianluca and Norah have a beautiful friends-to-lovers romance! They get along so well, and there is an ease to their relationship. Plus, their banter is witty, flirty, and fun. They have such a great connection, and I love how their relationship develops. The pair spends a lot of time together as Norah navigates the area to collect samples for her research and Gianluca guides her, and they have so many great experiences. I like how they slowly start to care for each other as more than friends, and it’s interesting to see how they work through their problems. Past heartbreak, abandonment issues, Norah’s short stay in Venice and future career, and more prove complicated obstacles for Gianluca and Nora.
The story also has some wonderful secondary characters, including Gianluca’s friends and grandmother and Norah’s family. And I love that Didi and Piero, the main characters from Meet Me in Venice, have secondary roles in this book. They are such great characters, and I was eager to see how their relationship was progressing. Norah and Didi’s mother is another recurring character, and she is just as unique and zany as she was when she was first introduced. Gianluca has a complicated relationship with his mother, and their story includes topics like resentment, the long-lasting effects of abandonment, and the pain of unspoken words. These topics are balanced well among others like friendship, the bonds of family, and the wonder of falling in love.
I loved this story and am quickly becoming a huge fan of the author’s contemporary romances. The characters are always so layered and interesting, the settings are gorgeous, and the love stories are positively swoon-worthy! I would definitely recommend the book to romance readers, and I am so thankful to Rachel’s Random Resources, Boldwood Books, and Leonie Mack for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
Gianluca vowed never to have a summer romance again, especially after the disaterous relationship in his past. However, he didn’t expect to be so taken by the intelligent and funny Norah. Can these two people with very different lives and goals find their happily ever after?
Venice is the main backdrop to the story, and it is so vividly described that you almost feel like you’re there. The author swept me away with Didi’s story in Meet Me in Venice, and I was delighted to fall back into the magic of this wonderful city. Venice is so rich with character, and it’s a place I’ve always dreamed of visiting. This book reaffirms my need to go there! It sounds amazing, and it’s the perfect backdrop for Norah and Gianluca’s love story. From the unique islands to the peaceful lagoons to the gorgeous spots throughout Venice, there is a charm and beauty that jumps from the page.
Gianluca and Norah have a beautiful friends-to-lovers romance! They get along so well, and there is an ease to their relationship. Plus, their banter is witty, flirty, and fun. They have such a great connection, and I love how their relationship develops. The pair spends a lot of time together as Norah navigates the area to collect samples for her research and Gianluca guides her, and they have so many great experiences. I like how they slowly start to care for each other as more than friends, and it’s interesting to see how they work through their problems. Past heartbreak, abandonment issues, Norah’s short stay in Venice and future career, and more prove complicated obstacles for Gianluca and Nora.
The story also has some wonderful secondary characters, including Gianluca’s friends and grandmother and Norah’s family. And I love that Didi and Piero, the main characters from Meet Me in Venice, have secondary roles in this book. They are such great characters, and I was eager to see how their relationship was progressing. Norah and Didi’s mother is another recurring character, and she is just as unique and zany as she was when she was first introduced. Gianluca has a complicated relationship with his mother, and their story includes topics like resentment, the long-lasting effects of abandonment, and the pain of unspoken words. These topics are balanced well among others like friendship, the bonds of family, and the wonder of falling in love.
I loved this story and am quickly becoming a huge fan of the author’s contemporary romances. The characters are always so layered and interesting, the settings are gorgeous, and the love stories are positively swoon-worthy! I would definitely recommend the book to romance readers, and I am so thankful to Rachel’s Random Resources, Boldwood Books, and Leonie Mack for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
April 10, 2022
I completely and utterly loved this book!
From the moment it started I was hooked, and I loved getting to know Norah, and could see the chemistry with Gianluca immediately. Of course they are from very different worlds, so I was never completely sure how it would end or if it would end as I hoped, and Leonie Mack has surpassed my expectations with it.
I hadn't realised until a few pages in, that this is a second book to A Match Made in Venice, this time featuring Didi's sister Norah as the main character. But it does mean we get to catch up with Didi and Piero which as a fan of the author I'm always happy to see characters again! It can though easily be read as a standalone.
I loved the descriptions of Venice, although I was less enthralled by the descriptions of Algae, and testing it etc.. just because I have no interest in the subject matter, but it's Norah's job and she seems to enjoy it! Gianluca is an oarmaker, which I would on the other hand, would have loved to have heard more details of!
I felt transported to Venice and also to another location that I won't name that was completely unexpected but added another dimension to the book! I do love some armchair travel. And I also really enjoyed getting to know Gianluca's friends, and his family.
I just loved everything about this book, and it's once again a gem of a story from Leonie Mack. I already can't wait to read what she writes next!
Thank you to Boldwood and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
From the moment it started I was hooked, and I loved getting to know Norah, and could see the chemistry with Gianluca immediately. Of course they are from very different worlds, so I was never completely sure how it would end or if it would end as I hoped, and Leonie Mack has surpassed my expectations with it.
I hadn't realised until a few pages in, that this is a second book to A Match Made in Venice, this time featuring Didi's sister Norah as the main character. But it does mean we get to catch up with Didi and Piero which as a fan of the author I'm always happy to see characters again! It can though easily be read as a standalone.
I loved the descriptions of Venice, although I was less enthralled by the descriptions of Algae, and testing it etc.. just because I have no interest in the subject matter, but it's Norah's job and she seems to enjoy it! Gianluca is an oarmaker, which I would on the other hand, would have loved to have heard more details of!
I felt transported to Venice and also to another location that I won't name that was completely unexpected but added another dimension to the book! I do love some armchair travel. And I also really enjoyed getting to know Gianluca's friends, and his family.
I just loved everything about this book, and it's once again a gem of a story from Leonie Mack. I already can't wait to read what she writes next!
Thank you to Boldwood and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
December 2, 2022
A tenderly sensual, slow-burn romance with a terrific, cinnamon-roll hero
One year ago, Norah York, a 25-year-old, British woman who was working on her Ph.D. in marine biology, broke her back in a motorboat accident while conducting research in the Isle of Wight. Her doctor has assured her that she is fully recovered from her injury, but her body is not the same as it was before, and it never will be again. She has two titanium rods in her spine, and for a long while after her surgery, it was unclear if she would be confined to a wheelchair for the rest of her life. Fortunately, after extensive, grueling, physical therapy, she eventually regained her mobility, but one of her feet is permanently numb, and she uses a cane to walk because her bum foot impairs her balance.
Prior to the accident, Norah had been in a four-year relationship with a man her age named Andrej, who was a fellow Ph.D. candidate in her biology program. There was no physical or emotional ardor between the two of them, but their partnership seemed like a rational arrangement to both of them, given the fact that the only driving passion for each of them was a career studying marine algae. Unhappily for Norah, lackluster convenience wasn’t an inspiring enough motive to clamp Andrej to her side when disaster struck. Before Norah even came out of surgery, he had left her for pastures new and, during the past year, Norah has seen nothing of her other connections from her biology graduate program, because she had to drop out of school. Her only relationships have been with her 31-year-old sister, Didi, and her 63-year-old mother, Saffron. During the intervening twelve, endless months, while Norah’s romantic life has been nonexistent, Didi has become engaged to 38-year-old Piero Zanetti, a famous, Venetian glass artist who adores her (their love story is told in Book 1 of this duology, A Match Made in Venice). During that same time period, Saffron has also received a marriage proposal. A wealthy businessman named Neal Brunswick, whom she met on a cruise ship, has made it more than obvious that he worships the ground Saffron walks on.
At the start of this story, Norah has arrived in Venice for a 10-week, low-paid internship. While living at the palazzo of her sponsor, a 51-year-old, world-renowned marine biologist named Emanuela (“Manu”) Delfini, Norah will be collecting and analyzing samples of the many different strains of algae that exist within the unique ecosystem of the Venice lagoon. Norah is more than a little nervous that she is going to have to be in a boat for the first time since her catastrophic accident. But at least it will not be the type of boat she was injured in, a motorboat, because only manually propelled boats are allowed in the pristine lagoon.
Shortly after Norah’s arrival, Manu introduces her to the man whom she has hired to ferry Norah around the lagoon, a tall, muscular, gorgeous, 29-year-old hunk named Gianluca Marangon. Though Norah is irritably defensive about her clumsiness and her cane when attempting to board the small boat that Gianluca will be rowing her around in, as well as multiple other times over the next few days, he reacts with unfailing politeness, consideration and kindness. As the weeks go by, and they spend long hours together in the peaceful lagoon, little by little they tentatively begin to establish a friendship. Norah tells Gianluca about her studies and her accident, and she learns that he is a highly talented craftsman who, in his own small shop, carves and sells oars and oarlocks specifically designed for Venetian gondolas, also supplementing his income working part-time as a gondolier.
Though Norah and Gianluca are highly attracted to each other, neither is eager to jump into an affair, because both have been burned in love. Gianluca has not been with anyone for the past five years, since he was abandoned by an Italian woman from Torino, whom he fell in love with, but who refused to move permanently to Venice to be with him. Since the debacle of her imploded romance, Norah has convinced herself that the only safe option for her as an ambitious scientist is to limit her focus entirely to her career—as Manu and many other women in her field have had to do to make any progress at all in a male-dominated scientific field. For all of these reasons, they mutually agree that they will be no more than friends with each other for the duration of Norah’s stay in Venice. Unfortunately for that practical plan, both of them find it impossible to keep their vow to remain platonic buddies.
Readers who enjoy STEM heroines will be pleased with the fact that Norah is a highly skilled and dedicated marine biologist. Her struggles with whether or not it will be viable for her to achieve a personal as well as a professional life are realistic and relatable. The author also compellingly portrays Norah’s adjustment to life after a traumatic injury.
Gianluca is a classic “cinnamon role” hero, defined as a sweet, nurturing, protective caregiver who is strongly invested in the heroine’s safety, comfort and pleasure. In spite of the fact that, especially at the beginning of their relationship, Norah scowls a lot and is irritably defensive about the aftereffects of her injury, rather than taking it personally, Gianluca actually finds her frowns and snappish remarks endearing. It is fascinating learning about the centuries-old craft that Gianluca specializes in. It is also an intriguing surprise when, past the midpoint of the story, it is revealed how much advanced education he has obtained and the area of study he has specialized in.
The romance between Norah and Gianluca is what is known as a “slow burn.” Their first real kiss does not occur until 65% of the book, and when they finally consummate their relationship, the author’s descriptions focus on tenderly sensual emotions, never referencing any body parts below the neck, other than hands and feet. The ultimate resolution of the romance plot involves impressive sacrificial actions on the part of Gianluca that are extremely moving, and quite unusual in the romance genre.
The main subcharacters in this story are Manu, Gianluca’s grandmother and his two best friends. Each is vividly drawn, but they never upstage Norah or Gianluca, and they do not exist as boring page fillers. Each is important to the overall arc of the romance between Norah and Gianluca.
Finally, it is obvious that the author knows Venice intimately. This beautiful, ancient city is so crucial to the plot, that it exists as practically a third, main character. Reading this book is almost like taking a once-in-a-lifetime vacation there.
I rate this book as follows:
Heroine: 4 stars
Hero: 5 stars
Subcharacters: 4 stars
Setting: 4 stars
Romance Plot: 4 stars
Writing: 4 stars
Overall: 4 stars
One year ago, Norah York, a 25-year-old, British woman who was working on her Ph.D. in marine biology, broke her back in a motorboat accident while conducting research in the Isle of Wight. Her doctor has assured her that she is fully recovered from her injury, but her body is not the same as it was before, and it never will be again. She has two titanium rods in her spine, and for a long while after her surgery, it was unclear if she would be confined to a wheelchair for the rest of her life. Fortunately, after extensive, grueling, physical therapy, she eventually regained her mobility, but one of her feet is permanently numb, and she uses a cane to walk because her bum foot impairs her balance.
Prior to the accident, Norah had been in a four-year relationship with a man her age named Andrej, who was a fellow Ph.D. candidate in her biology program. There was no physical or emotional ardor between the two of them, but their partnership seemed like a rational arrangement to both of them, given the fact that the only driving passion for each of them was a career studying marine algae. Unhappily for Norah, lackluster convenience wasn’t an inspiring enough motive to clamp Andrej to her side when disaster struck. Before Norah even came out of surgery, he had left her for pastures new and, during the past year, Norah has seen nothing of her other connections from her biology graduate program, because she had to drop out of school. Her only relationships have been with her 31-year-old sister, Didi, and her 63-year-old mother, Saffron. During the intervening twelve, endless months, while Norah’s romantic life has been nonexistent, Didi has become engaged to 38-year-old Piero Zanetti, a famous, Venetian glass artist who adores her (their love story is told in Book 1 of this duology, A Match Made in Venice). During that same time period, Saffron has also received a marriage proposal. A wealthy businessman named Neal Brunswick, whom she met on a cruise ship, has made it more than obvious that he worships the ground Saffron walks on.
At the start of this story, Norah has arrived in Venice for a 10-week, low-paid internship. While living at the palazzo of her sponsor, a 51-year-old, world-renowned marine biologist named Emanuela (“Manu”) Delfini, Norah will be collecting and analyzing samples of the many different strains of algae that exist within the unique ecosystem of the Venice lagoon. Norah is more than a little nervous that she is going to have to be in a boat for the first time since her catastrophic accident. But at least it will not be the type of boat she was injured in, a motorboat, because only manually propelled boats are allowed in the pristine lagoon.
Shortly after Norah’s arrival, Manu introduces her to the man whom she has hired to ferry Norah around the lagoon, a tall, muscular, gorgeous, 29-year-old hunk named Gianluca Marangon. Though Norah is irritably defensive about her clumsiness and her cane when attempting to board the small boat that Gianluca will be rowing her around in, as well as multiple other times over the next few days, he reacts with unfailing politeness, consideration and kindness. As the weeks go by, and they spend long hours together in the peaceful lagoon, little by little they tentatively begin to establish a friendship. Norah tells Gianluca about her studies and her accident, and she learns that he is a highly talented craftsman who, in his own small shop, carves and sells oars and oarlocks specifically designed for Venetian gondolas, also supplementing his income working part-time as a gondolier.
Though Norah and Gianluca are highly attracted to each other, neither is eager to jump into an affair, because both have been burned in love. Gianluca has not been with anyone for the past five years, since he was abandoned by an Italian woman from Torino, whom he fell in love with, but who refused to move permanently to Venice to be with him. Since the debacle of her imploded romance, Norah has convinced herself that the only safe option for her as an ambitious scientist is to limit her focus entirely to her career—as Manu and many other women in her field have had to do to make any progress at all in a male-dominated scientific field. For all of these reasons, they mutually agree that they will be no more than friends with each other for the duration of Norah’s stay in Venice. Unfortunately for that practical plan, both of them find it impossible to keep their vow to remain platonic buddies.
Readers who enjoy STEM heroines will be pleased with the fact that Norah is a highly skilled and dedicated marine biologist. Her struggles with whether or not it will be viable for her to achieve a personal as well as a professional life are realistic and relatable. The author also compellingly portrays Norah’s adjustment to life after a traumatic injury.
Gianluca is a classic “cinnamon role” hero, defined as a sweet, nurturing, protective caregiver who is strongly invested in the heroine’s safety, comfort and pleasure. In spite of the fact that, especially at the beginning of their relationship, Norah scowls a lot and is irritably defensive about the aftereffects of her injury, rather than taking it personally, Gianluca actually finds her frowns and snappish remarks endearing. It is fascinating learning about the centuries-old craft that Gianluca specializes in. It is also an intriguing surprise when, past the midpoint of the story, it is revealed how much advanced education he has obtained and the area of study he has specialized in.
The romance between Norah and Gianluca is what is known as a “slow burn.” Their first real kiss does not occur until 65% of the book, and when they finally consummate their relationship, the author’s descriptions focus on tenderly sensual emotions, never referencing any body parts below the neck, other than hands and feet. The ultimate resolution of the romance plot involves impressive sacrificial actions on the part of Gianluca that are extremely moving, and quite unusual in the romance genre.
The main subcharacters in this story are Manu, Gianluca’s grandmother and his two best friends. Each is vividly drawn, but they never upstage Norah or Gianluca, and they do not exist as boring page fillers. Each is important to the overall arc of the romance between Norah and Gianluca.
Finally, it is obvious that the author knows Venice intimately. This beautiful, ancient city is so crucial to the plot, that it exists as practically a third, main character. Reading this book is almost like taking a once-in-a-lifetime vacation there.
I rate this book as follows:
Heroine: 4 stars
Hero: 5 stars
Subcharacters: 4 stars
Setting: 4 stars
Romance Plot: 4 stars
Writing: 4 stars
Overall: 4 stars
April 29, 2022
The book is emotional and inspiring. I like how fierce Norah is and how despite how much she’s lost, she comes out stronger. I hate Manu’s character. Sure, I feel pity for her at times but she will never be a good character in my opinion. Towards the end, when she apologizes and accepts what she’d done to keep Norah and Gianluca away, I was furious, and no matter how much remorse she carried, it’d be stupid to forget that she had, indeed, used everyone, even if she thought it was for a noble cause, which let’s be honest, it wasn't. I feel proud of Gianluca for leaving his insecurities apart but the story didn’t pique my interest as much as I’d hoped it would. The scenery of Venice was beautifully described, though in excessive detail, which made me want to stop reading. Along with the few moments where they were alone, I would’ve loved to read Norah and Gianluca’s interactions where they were more honest with each other. The book is a fair read though, and I would recommend it to those who like a summer romance turned love (along with a particular grand track down, if I may).
June 14, 2022
Absolutely brilliant, hilarious, and toe curling cute. I expected a very sappy romance and was completely knocked over when this book not only painted with words the beautiful scenery of Venice through the eyes of a tourist and locals but also handed me a strong female STEM lead with physical disabilities on a golden platter that filled all my inclusive needs.
We follow Norah who has been a horrible car accident, leaving her with pins in her back but also ended a long-term relationship of hers. Now she is in Venice for a 10 week program, she is a microbiologist working on her PhD and is ready to jump back into her career with this intern program. Just her, and her algae project- no distractions.
HA! Enters Gianluca, and though there is some serious chemistry and attraction, Norah insists on being friends because she is determined to go home after 10 weeks. But Norah battles an uphill battle seeing her stomach does cart wheels when she sees him, and it doesn’t help that Venice sets the perfect atmosphere for romance.
I absolutely adored this. I laughed out loud so many times, and I really enjoyed the tropes that came with this book, I’m talking:
🧫 Woman in Stem
🧫One bed Trope
🧫 Friends to lovers
🧫 Destination romance
🧫 Physical disabilities inclusion
I loved Norah’s career focus, and adored Gianluca’s personality and how these two bantered. My word the tension and the angst was just- *chef’s kiss* 🤌🏻
I would 100% recommend this if you are looking for a book that will make you laugh, scream at the characters to just kiss already and if you love detailed descriptions of beautiful destinations.
Thank you to Netgalley for this ARC. I will be reading anything this author writes in the future.
March 30, 2022
YES! Loved it! What a wonderfully joyful book and my must-read recommendation for summer ‘22. I thought it was absolutely brilliant.
Firstly - women in STEM as our leading characters? Absolutely wonderful. Secondly - physical disabilities on our leading character with no murmur of it being represented as a flaw or something that needs to be fixed. Absolutely brilliant. This book has brought wider representation of women into the chick lit genre and I hope it’s here to stay. It’s so refreshing to see leading characters outside of what is considered the norm in chick-lit books, we need women of more diverse backgrounds and physical representations and this book really comes through for that.
It’s laugh out loud funny and set in beautiful Venice - but not through the eyes of a tourist but through local Venetians. It’s a romance but also a story of acceptance and finding family in the most unlikely of places.
There’s only one negative and that’s quite early on a reference is made to Norah’s weight and being glad that’s she not ‘heavy’ to row around. I thought this was unnecessary and took the shine off an otherwise excellent book.
Otherwise, absolutely recommend, loved it.
Firstly - women in STEM as our leading characters? Absolutely wonderful. Secondly - physical disabilities on our leading character with no murmur of it being represented as a flaw or something that needs to be fixed. Absolutely brilliant. This book has brought wider representation of women into the chick lit genre and I hope it’s here to stay. It’s so refreshing to see leading characters outside of what is considered the norm in chick-lit books, we need women of more diverse backgrounds and physical representations and this book really comes through for that.
It’s laugh out loud funny and set in beautiful Venice - but not through the eyes of a tourist but through local Venetians. It’s a romance but also a story of acceptance and finding family in the most unlikely of places.
There’s only one negative and that’s quite early on a reference is made to Norah’s weight and being glad that’s she not ‘heavy’ to row around. I thought this was unnecessary and took the shine off an otherwise excellent book.
Otherwise, absolutely recommend, loved it.
March 11, 2022
I received an ARC from NetGalley in return for an honest review.
I'd read the first book and loved it, so was delighted to read this one. I absolutely loved it (possibly even more than Didi and Piero's story).
Norah is Didi's sister, and she comes to Venice on a placement for ten weeks. and meets the mysterious Gianluca and a host of other interesting characters..
The development of their love story is so well done and the characterization is simply fabulous. The author writes very well, and it is a joy to read such intelligent and nuanced stories. I would highly recommend this book.
I'd read the first book and loved it, so was delighted to read this one. I absolutely loved it (possibly even more than Didi and Piero's story).
Norah is Didi's sister, and she comes to Venice on a placement for ten weeks. and meets the mysterious Gianluca and a host of other interesting characters..
The development of their love story is so well done and the characterization is simply fabulous. The author writes very well, and it is a joy to read such intelligent and nuanced stories. I would highly recommend this book.
May 1, 2022
After serious injuries, physio and heartbreak,
Norah has some tough decisions to make.
Meanwhile she's off to Venice on an internship where
She's researching the algae growing in the lagoon there.
The last thing she's expecting there to meet
Is a handsome Venetian, who makes her heart beat.
She's only there for the summer and doesn't want to chance
On this opportunity for a possible romance.
There are family secrets and dramas galore
A beautiful setting and great twists and more.
I learned so much about algae and oars
As part of this enthralling read, of course!
A lovely story and setting to escape into
With great characters and surprises, it's true.
A heartwarming, fun story about choices and chances
As well as a few delightful romances!
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
It's a gentle, engaging read and this is my honest review.
Norah has some tough decisions to make.
Meanwhile she's off to Venice on an internship where
She's researching the algae growing in the lagoon there.
The last thing she's expecting there to meet
Is a handsome Venetian, who makes her heart beat.
She's only there for the summer and doesn't want to chance
On this opportunity for a possible romance.
There are family secrets and dramas galore
A beautiful setting and great twists and more.
I learned so much about algae and oars
As part of this enthralling read, of course!
A lovely story and setting to escape into
With great characters and surprises, it's true.
A heartwarming, fun story about choices and chances
As well as a few delightful romances!
For my complementary copy, I say thank you,
It's a gentle, engaging read and this is my honest review.
April 28, 2022
I was in Venice and also to Murano and I could immagine the place where the book is settled. I also know a lot of italian coulture and was nice to read a little about again.
I loved the main characters, the possibility to find friends or love in an other country is so exciting. The author wrote nice dialogs with some words that are local. It was really a refreshing story.
Thank you Bookandtonic and Netgalley for this possibility
I loved the main characters, the possibility to find friends or love in an other country is so exciting. The author wrote nice dialogs with some words that are local. It was really a refreshing story.
Thank you Bookandtonic and Netgalley for this possibility
March 10, 2022
Thanks Netgalley for a arc copy of this book for a honest review
We'll Always Have Venice was and will always be a 5 star read. I enjoyed Norah and Gianluca they were so cute. When it comes out I'm differently getting my own copy.
Happy Reading
Lisa
We'll Always Have Venice was and will always be a 5 star read. I enjoyed Norah and Gianluca they were so cute. When it comes out I'm differently getting my own copy.
Happy Reading
Lisa
August 31, 2024
This book was so cute! Definitely a slow burn and in such a fun setting. Made me so excited to visit Venice!
January 1, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own. The reviews I saw for this book when I picked up up were wonderful! I was so excited to dive in to the story! Though I enjoyed the beginning of the book, I quickly found that there was a lot lacking here for me. Don't get me wrong, it's not a bad story. However, I generally just felt bored reading it. It's clearly a me issue, as so many others have loved this book! For me, it was a fast read, but was too slow for my liking.
May 2, 2022
We start this book at the end of the previous book which meant that the two tied together almost seamlessly, with Neil proposing to Saffron (Norah and Didi’s mum) on Christmas Day, and Norah and Didi as shocked as each other. The news that her mother is going to get married before her drives Norah to get away from London and get her career back on track after taking time out to recover from her accident.
Again, Leonie manages to make Venice sound amazing, even with all the quirky doorknobs and creepy statues everywhere, but it’s the people that really stood out for me in this book. Norah is such a good character who is in Venice for 10 weeks to study the algae in the surrounding lagoons, sounds boring but trust me it has its moments! Although she walks with a cane after her injury and is still trying to piece herself together after Andrej (her ex) left her at one of her most vulnerable moments, she is far from weak. Mack presents us with a character who is strong both internally and externally, her banter with Gianluca was so charming to see and I loved their pet names for each other, you can tell that everything they’ve got is built on a firm friendship base.
Talking of Gianluca, he is pictured as a strapping, tall, dark and handsome kinda guy with bulging arm muscles courtesy of all the time he spends rowing a boat. Of course its a boat that sees their first introduction, with Norah almost falling straight into the guys arms when she steps onto a boat he is rowing to a Venetian wedding. This is when Norah finds out that Gianluca is going to be her personal rower for the next ten weeks, rowing her out for all of her sampling trips in his little boat Dafne.
I think we all know how romance novels will end but the ten weeks that Norah and Gianluca spend together is so special and you really do sense that radiating off the pages as you’re reading. The way they fall into sync with each other, despite both insisting friends is all they can be (Norah is leaving after all) felt so honest and allowed them both to open up a bit and let the other in. I think the banter element made this feel all so realistic, it wasn’t all nice, romantic moments but more natural progression, especially when Pino and Chiara are involved as well – I mean how good did that festival sound!!!
Mack has done it again and written a fantastic book that will whisk you off to the streets and lagoons of Venice (something I didn’t know about before but now will be adding to my travel list), with amazing characters that leave you wanting to return. I loved seeing the updates from Piero and Didi as well as this really bought both of the books so nicely together and will now patiently wait for Mack’s next trip!
Again, Leonie manages to make Venice sound amazing, even with all the quirky doorknobs and creepy statues everywhere, but it’s the people that really stood out for me in this book. Norah is such a good character who is in Venice for 10 weeks to study the algae in the surrounding lagoons, sounds boring but trust me it has its moments! Although she walks with a cane after her injury and is still trying to piece herself together after Andrej (her ex) left her at one of her most vulnerable moments, she is far from weak. Mack presents us with a character who is strong both internally and externally, her banter with Gianluca was so charming to see and I loved their pet names for each other, you can tell that everything they’ve got is built on a firm friendship base.
Talking of Gianluca, he is pictured as a strapping, tall, dark and handsome kinda guy with bulging arm muscles courtesy of all the time he spends rowing a boat. Of course its a boat that sees their first introduction, with Norah almost falling straight into the guys arms when she steps onto a boat he is rowing to a Venetian wedding. This is when Norah finds out that Gianluca is going to be her personal rower for the next ten weeks, rowing her out for all of her sampling trips in his little boat Dafne.
I think we all know how romance novels will end but the ten weeks that Norah and Gianluca spend together is so special and you really do sense that radiating off the pages as you’re reading. The way they fall into sync with each other, despite both insisting friends is all they can be (Norah is leaving after all) felt so honest and allowed them both to open up a bit and let the other in. I think the banter element made this feel all so realistic, it wasn’t all nice, romantic moments but more natural progression, especially when Pino and Chiara are involved as well – I mean how good did that festival sound!!!
Mack has done it again and written a fantastic book that will whisk you off to the streets and lagoons of Venice (something I didn’t know about before but now will be adding to my travel list), with amazing characters that leave you wanting to return. I loved seeing the updates from Piero and Didi as well as this really bought both of the books so nicely together and will now patiently wait for Mack’s next trip!
April 30, 2022
I was desperate to be whisked back to the romance of Venice when I picked up the new book by Leonie Mack, having enjoyed my last trip there with her so much. Last time it was winter in The Floating City, so it was fun to anticipate how different it might look when we take a trip there in summer with Norah, as she embarks on her summer internship studying the algae that grows in its famous lagoon. (Bear with me, this is way more interesting than it sounds!)
Norah is the younger sister of Didi, who found love with a Ventian glassmaker in the first book in this series. You don’t need to have read, A Match Made in Venice, to enjoy We’ll Always Have Venice, but I highly recommend picking it up anyway because it is a fantastic read. Norah is determined not to follow in her sister’s footsteps though – she has a career to focus on which requires her to leave Venice at the end of summer and, anyway, she’s been let down by people before, best keep herself aloof. It’s going to be hard, though, when she is in such close proximity to Gianluca all summer…
We all know what comes at the end of romance novels, it’s how we get there that is important, and the journey that Leonie takes us on in this book is full of charm, tenderness and truth. She really draws a portrait of two damaged souls who have been hurt so badly in the past that fear is preventing them admitting their feelings for one another in a way that feels very realistic and honest. Watching their relationship grow despite their best efforts in engrossing and immensely touching, and I was completely captivated by their story.
Aside from the romance aspect of the story, what draws me to Leonie’s books is the setting, and the very different and fascinating approach she always takes to showcasing it. Here, Norah’s profession takes us to areas of Venice that are well off the tourist track and ones we would never expect to see normally in this type of book. She has obviously put in a huge amount of research to make this career for Norah sound convincing, there was so much detail woven in to the writing, I was really impressed with how it was done. The way she has used this so integrally to the plot, as opposed to just a mechanism to get her to Venice and in to the arms of Gianluca, is brilliant and I think it makes this book stand out from the herd of travel romance novels.
I continue to be excited by Leonie’s writing and, early in her career as she is, I’m eager to see what she does next. To be so bold and confident at this stage bodes well for her future, and is promising for us as reader that there is more and better to come. Aren’t we lucky?
Norah is the younger sister of Didi, who found love with a Ventian glassmaker in the first book in this series. You don’t need to have read, A Match Made in Venice, to enjoy We’ll Always Have Venice, but I highly recommend picking it up anyway because it is a fantastic read. Norah is determined not to follow in her sister’s footsteps though – she has a career to focus on which requires her to leave Venice at the end of summer and, anyway, she’s been let down by people before, best keep herself aloof. It’s going to be hard, though, when she is in such close proximity to Gianluca all summer…
We all know what comes at the end of romance novels, it’s how we get there that is important, and the journey that Leonie takes us on in this book is full of charm, tenderness and truth. She really draws a portrait of two damaged souls who have been hurt so badly in the past that fear is preventing them admitting their feelings for one another in a way that feels very realistic and honest. Watching their relationship grow despite their best efforts in engrossing and immensely touching, and I was completely captivated by their story.
Aside from the romance aspect of the story, what draws me to Leonie’s books is the setting, and the very different and fascinating approach she always takes to showcasing it. Here, Norah’s profession takes us to areas of Venice that are well off the tourist track and ones we would never expect to see normally in this type of book. She has obviously put in a huge amount of research to make this career for Norah sound convincing, there was so much detail woven in to the writing, I was really impressed with how it was done. The way she has used this so integrally to the plot, as opposed to just a mechanism to get her to Venice and in to the arms of Gianluca, is brilliant and I think it makes this book stand out from the herd of travel romance novels.
I continue to be excited by Leonie’s writing and, early in her career as she is, I’m eager to see what she does next. To be so bold and confident at this stage bodes well for her future, and is promising for us as reader that there is more and better to come. Aren’t we lucky?
April 14, 2022
When I first started this book, I thought it would be a sappy romance that takes place in Venice. I'm glad that the scenery kept me reading the book as it ended up being more than a romance. It's a story of love and rejection, sisters and mothers along with wonderful descriptions of the sights and people of Venice.
Norah has been living with her mother and sister for the last year while she recovers from a horrific accident that left her with pins in her legs and needing a cane to walk plus ended a long-term relationship that she thought would be her happily ever after. Even though she loves her family, her life is becoming sheltered as they try to take care of her even as she wants to get back to life. When she's offered an internship in Venice, she is thrilled at the chance. She's a microbiologist working on her PhD and is thrilled to get back to her chosen career with the ten week internship. She feels immediately that she made the right decision for her life - to work on her algae project with no disruptions. That ends when she meets Gianluca, a gondolier and craftsman who lives in Venice. He has been assigned to take her to the small islands around the city to do her study. At first, they aren't real impressed with each other but the more they get to know each other, the more they realize that there is a possible romance. Norah is determined that she will leave Venice in ten weeks, she doesn't need a man to interrupt her work and she wants to be just friends with him. They spend an increasing amount of time together and it gets more difficult to remain 'just friends' What will happen at the end of her internship? Will they both be able to discard all of their baggage and their memories of relationships gone bad and be able to fall in love?
This was a well written and fun books to read. I really enjoyed the banter between the two main characters and enjoyed the way that their romance progressed. I loved the fact that the main female character is an intelligent and career driven woman. I also enjoyed the descriptions of Venice. I've been there several times and was able to take a mental vacation back based on the descriptions of the beautiful city in this book.
Norah has been living with her mother and sister for the last year while she recovers from a horrific accident that left her with pins in her legs and needing a cane to walk plus ended a long-term relationship that she thought would be her happily ever after. Even though she loves her family, her life is becoming sheltered as they try to take care of her even as she wants to get back to life. When she's offered an internship in Venice, she is thrilled at the chance. She's a microbiologist working on her PhD and is thrilled to get back to her chosen career with the ten week internship. She feels immediately that she made the right decision for her life - to work on her algae project with no disruptions. That ends when she meets Gianluca, a gondolier and craftsman who lives in Venice. He has been assigned to take her to the small islands around the city to do her study. At first, they aren't real impressed with each other but the more they get to know each other, the more they realize that there is a possible romance. Norah is determined that she will leave Venice in ten weeks, she doesn't need a man to interrupt her work and she wants to be just friends with him. They spend an increasing amount of time together and it gets more difficult to remain 'just friends' What will happen at the end of her internship? Will they both be able to discard all of their baggage and their memories of relationships gone bad and be able to fall in love?
This was a well written and fun books to read. I really enjoyed the banter between the two main characters and enjoyed the way that their romance progressed. I loved the fact that the main female character is an intelligent and career driven woman. I also enjoyed the descriptions of Venice. I've been there several times and was able to take a mental vacation back based on the descriptions of the beautiful city in this book.
May 2, 2022
One thing I always love about Leonie Mack’s books is the special chemistry she creates between her characters. Norah’s definitely not looking for romance – she’s recently recovered from a particularly serious injury, a long-term relationship has just ended rather painfully, and her stay in Venice is a work trip, an internship to further her career as a marine biologist. Her boss (and landlady) Manu arranges for oarmaker Gianluca to ferry her around the lakes and lagoons collecting her samples of algae – although he’s quiet and a bit sullen at first, there’s a clear attraction between them, and their exchanges start to sparkle and fizz. They both have their reasons for not allowing anything more to develop – although they’re severely tested when stranded out on the lagoon in a thunderstorm – and agree that they’ll never be more than the best of friends. But as Norah’s stay in the city of lovers draws to a close, as they always knew it would, there might just be rather more than close friendship between them… but might it be too late?
I loved the characters in this book. Gianluca (Lulu to his friends… goodness, he’s gorgeous!) has a nicely complex family-related back story, and a previous relationship sets up another thread of light conflict and misunderstanding. And Norah has family complications too – if you read A Match Made in Venice (and it’s really not essential) you’ll remember her mother Saffron, and she’s still making demands and creating havoc. And it was a delight to have a cameo appearance from Didi and Piero too, still every bit as loved up, along with some of the larger than life family members I’d met before – a particular treat for me, but nothing to worry about if this is the first time you’ve been to Venice with the author. But the newly introduced characters are excellent too, with great characterisation – Manu with her secrets, and you’re going to just love Gianluca’s feisty grandmother.
And as well as the romance and all the family complications, there’s the wonderfully drawn setting. Is there any better backdrop for a developing romance than Venice? The author’s descriptions are just wonderful, bringing it vividly to life, making you feel you’ve been on an extended visit – the most perfect armchair travel experience – and that’s equally applicable to the book’s other rather unexpected (but quite perfectly chosen) primary location.
But the romance – I really loved every moment, as the two main characters I’d really taken to my heart fought that magnetic pull between them when you really, really wanted them to have their happy ending. The writing is just excellent – I loved the exchanges between them, the playfulness and jokey banter, but with so much emotion simmering just under the surface. It was a relationship I really believed in, and far more than the holiday romance you might just be expecting.
This was one of those perfect summer reads, but with a depth and emotion that was particularly satisfying – most definitely one I’d recommend to others.
I loved the characters in this book. Gianluca (Lulu to his friends… goodness, he’s gorgeous!) has a nicely complex family-related back story, and a previous relationship sets up another thread of light conflict and misunderstanding. And Norah has family complications too – if you read A Match Made in Venice (and it’s really not essential) you’ll remember her mother Saffron, and she’s still making demands and creating havoc. And it was a delight to have a cameo appearance from Didi and Piero too, still every bit as loved up, along with some of the larger than life family members I’d met before – a particular treat for me, but nothing to worry about if this is the first time you’ve been to Venice with the author. But the newly introduced characters are excellent too, with great characterisation – Manu with her secrets, and you’re going to just love Gianluca’s feisty grandmother.
And as well as the romance and all the family complications, there’s the wonderfully drawn setting. Is there any better backdrop for a developing romance than Venice? The author’s descriptions are just wonderful, bringing it vividly to life, making you feel you’ve been on an extended visit – the most perfect armchair travel experience – and that’s equally applicable to the book’s other rather unexpected (but quite perfectly chosen) primary location.
But the romance – I really loved every moment, as the two main characters I’d really taken to my heart fought that magnetic pull between them when you really, really wanted them to have their happy ending. The writing is just excellent – I loved the exchanges between them, the playfulness and jokey banter, but with so much emotion simmering just under the surface. It was a relationship I really believed in, and far more than the holiday romance you might just be expecting.
This was one of those perfect summer reads, but with a depth and emotion that was particularly satisfying – most definitely one I’d recommend to others.
May 1, 2022
A summery burst of pure joy set against the gorgeous backdrop of the beautiful Venetian scenery. It has all the feel good elements needed for an irresistible romance you can’t help but root for, even though you know the odds aren’t in their favour!
I loved the dual point of view and getting to know the utterly charming Norah and Gianluca. Norah’s reeling from a serious accident which hurt her physically and damaged her sense of self-worth. Gianluca has been hurt in love and it’s left him unwilling to try again.
After feeling so helpless, and with her PhD on hold, Norah has a fierce determination to do things for herself. A 10 week work placement studying algae in Venice is just what she needs! Gianluca is hired as her guide – he’s kind, a tonic for Norah, with deep Venetian roots. I was instantly drawn into their vivid, entertaining world and felt an emotional pull to both characters.
They spend a lot of time together having teasing chats, amusing times on the boat, and find it hard to fight their building attraction. They are both in need of a good friend and agree to leave it at that. As they confide in each other, we see they help the other stop living in the past and their connection grows.
I adored the meeting with Nòna, she has a welcoming, generous character and wants the best for Gianluca – their bond is clear and special to see.
There’s a surprising twist and complicated family dynamics. We get swept up in their inevitable romance which we know must come to an end – there’s no way to seamlessly thread their two lives together. What do you do when love isn’t enough?
Mack lifts our spirits with this delightful story where we meet such sparking characters who dazzle on the page. It’s a tale of love, career, and family. When your head and heart are pulling you in different directions which do you listen to? It’s the perfect escape leaving you with a warm glow.
With thanks to @rararesources, @LeonieMAuthor, and @boldwoodbooks for a place on the tour and the opportunity to read and review this book
I loved the dual point of view and getting to know the utterly charming Norah and Gianluca. Norah’s reeling from a serious accident which hurt her physically and damaged her sense of self-worth. Gianluca has been hurt in love and it’s left him unwilling to try again.
After feeling so helpless, and with her PhD on hold, Norah has a fierce determination to do things for herself. A 10 week work placement studying algae in Venice is just what she needs! Gianluca is hired as her guide – he’s kind, a tonic for Norah, with deep Venetian roots. I was instantly drawn into their vivid, entertaining world and felt an emotional pull to both characters.
They spend a lot of time together having teasing chats, amusing times on the boat, and find it hard to fight their building attraction. They are both in need of a good friend and agree to leave it at that. As they confide in each other, we see they help the other stop living in the past and their connection grows.
I adored the meeting with Nòna, she has a welcoming, generous character and wants the best for Gianluca – their bond is clear and special to see.
There’s a surprising twist and complicated family dynamics. We get swept up in their inevitable romance which we know must come to an end – there’s no way to seamlessly thread their two lives together. What do you do when love isn’t enough?
Mack lifts our spirits with this delightful story where we meet such sparking characters who dazzle on the page. It’s a tale of love, career, and family. When your head and heart are pulling you in different directions which do you listen to? It’s the perfect escape leaving you with a warm glow.
With thanks to @rararesources, @LeonieMAuthor, and @boldwoodbooks for a place on the tour and the opportunity to read and review this book
May 18, 2022
This was a great book that I really enjoyed. The characters are so well done, they’ve got problems and good and bad days like the rest of us. The descriptions of Venice brought back many familiar memories and reminded me once again what a beautiful and special place it is.
I loved that Norah is a STEM main character! The chemistry between Norah and Gianluca jumps off the page and you’re not sure if they’ll ever move from friends to lovers.
I also enjoyed reading about the unknown lagoons and islands were so interesting, I never knew some of the small islands were populated.
I recommend this book, 4 stars.
Blurb:
Who can resist the romance of Venice…
When Norah arrives in Venice for a ten-week internship she is surprised to discover that her guide for her work trips around the lagoon is the undeniably gorgeous and kind Gianluca. She can’t help thinking he might be too good to be true, with his endless fascinating local stories, and his infectious laugh.
Norah is still bitter after an accident left her with a serious injury and also meant the end of her long-term relationship. And besides, she's serious about her career and that means leaving Venice at the end of the summer.
Gianluca has had a summer fling before that led to heartache for him and he won't do it again. He enjoys the long hours out on the lagoon with Norah, but after a storm strands them on a picture-perfect island for a night, they agree they should just be good friends for the summer.
But life doesn't always go to plan, and when it's time for Norah to go, they have to decide whether what they have between them is really just a friendship, and not something more…
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I loved that Norah is a STEM main character! The chemistry between Norah and Gianluca jumps off the page and you’re not sure if they’ll ever move from friends to lovers.
I also enjoyed reading about the unknown lagoons and islands were so interesting, I never knew some of the small islands were populated.
I recommend this book, 4 stars.
Blurb:
Who can resist the romance of Venice…
When Norah arrives in Venice for a ten-week internship she is surprised to discover that her guide for her work trips around the lagoon is the undeniably gorgeous and kind Gianluca. She can’t help thinking he might be too good to be true, with his endless fascinating local stories, and his infectious laugh.
Norah is still bitter after an accident left her with a serious injury and also meant the end of her long-term relationship. And besides, she's serious about her career and that means leaving Venice at the end of the summer.
Gianluca has had a summer fling before that led to heartache for him and he won't do it again. He enjoys the long hours out on the lagoon with Norah, but after a storm strands them on a picture-perfect island for a night, they agree they should just be good friends for the summer.
But life doesn't always go to plan, and when it's time for Norah to go, they have to decide whether what they have between them is really just a friendship, and not something more…
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 24, 2022
This was a delightful read. I'm a big fan of travel romance, so seeing Norah spend her summer in Venice and discover who she wants to be and find love in the process was a lot of fun. This book made me nostalgic for Venice, I could really picture everything that happened in this book through the descriptions. Norah goes to Venice to get a fresh start and do her microbiology research after a pretty serious accident and Gianluca had a previous summer relationship that left him heartbroken, so neither character is looking for romance. Of course, that is exactly what they find. I enjoyed the inevitability of the romance. Both Norah and Gianluca had past relationships and issues they are dealing with and they recognize their chemistry but continue to try and deny it and insist they can only be friends. However, they slowly realize that they want more than friendship. I thought their friendship felt very authentic and you can tell they genuinely care for each other. The banter, chemistry, and tension between the characters had me very excited for when they finally got together. It's nice to see them develop such a deep connection and fall in love while navigating their own issues. This book gives depth to all of the characters too. We see them struggle with career decisions, academia, injuries, heartbreaks, and family issues, but we also see them learn about themselves, friendship, family, and love. I think this book does a great job of balancing serious subjects and real obstacles with sweet moments, witty conversations, and fun times together. This book has the only one bed trope, friend to lovers, two STEM protagonists -a strong, career-oriented woman super passionate about her research and a craftsman with a physics degree, and a city that feels almost magical.
March 24, 2022
Norah is a British marine biology student freshly recovered from a terrible accident and a bad breakup. Gianluca is a Venetian gondolier with family issues and a fear of being left (again) by a visiting tourist he develops feelings for. The two meet when Norah lands a job studying algae in the lagoons of Venice and Gianluca is hired to be her “personal driver” (boater??) for the expeditions. A fast friendship is formed, but pretty soon both Norah and Gianluca are having to face the fact that the chemistry is undeniable, and deep feelings are developing. But with plenty of baggage from both of their pasts, and a deadline on things when she leaves Venice, can a relationship even happen?
We’ll Always Have Venice is a sweet read that pulled me in more than I expected. The first few chapters moved a bit slowly for me and I was worried I wouldn’t get in to it, but by the 20% mark I was hooked and read the rest really quickly. I think what I loved best about this book was that they truly did develop a deep friendship first. Sure, their physical attraction to each other was quick, but I appreciated that the author gave Norah and Gianluca the friendship, before anything else. I rooted for them throughout the book, and also loved all the supporting characters. This book was fun and sweet and enjoyable, and did make me want to go back and read the author’s other books (this was the first of hers I’d read.)
I received a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read and review.
We’ll Always Have Venice is a sweet read that pulled me in more than I expected. The first few chapters moved a bit slowly for me and I was worried I wouldn’t get in to it, but by the 20% mark I was hooked and read the rest really quickly. I think what I loved best about this book was that they truly did develop a deep friendship first. Sure, their physical attraction to each other was quick, but I appreciated that the author gave Norah and Gianluca the friendship, before anything else. I rooted for them throughout the book, and also loved all the supporting characters. This book was fun and sweet and enjoyable, and did make me want to go back and read the author’s other books (this was the first of hers I’d read.)
I received a complimentary copy of this book to read and review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read and review.
April 18, 2022
I feel like I just got back from vacation after reading this book. The way the buildings and water were described are so detailed that I think I got transported directly to Venice for the day! Filled with witty remarks, light spice, and charismatic people, this book envelops you in the Italian culture.
The character development takes the main stage here in every aspect. Norah’s initial bitterness, Gianluca’s love life, and even Saffron’s wild ways all come under the microscope through this book and makes you take a good look at yourself as well. Going into it, I didn’t know this is the second book in the same world as A Match Made In Venice because it read wonderfully as a standalone. But if you do read the other one, some of the same characters make an appearance here as some entertaining sidekicks.
I really appreciated that Norah has a physical impairment. It is rare to see a female character who isn’t already perfect and, from someone who also has metal rods screwed into their spine, it was a surprising and wonderful revelation to read about someone else going through those struggles both physically and mentally.
Gianluca is fantastic and the banter between the two was really fun and kept the book light! The plot twists kept coming at points where I least expected it and I have to say I didn’t expect that ending.
My only complaint was that it felt a little slow at times, but it did give you the impression of what a lazy Sunday morning in Venice would be like. The writing and descriptions are spot on and as a slow burn, this is very much an enjoyable read.
I received this book in exchange for my honest review.
The character development takes the main stage here in every aspect. Norah’s initial bitterness, Gianluca’s love life, and even Saffron’s wild ways all come under the microscope through this book and makes you take a good look at yourself as well. Going into it, I didn’t know this is the second book in the same world as A Match Made In Venice because it read wonderfully as a standalone. But if you do read the other one, some of the same characters make an appearance here as some entertaining sidekicks.
I really appreciated that Norah has a physical impairment. It is rare to see a female character who isn’t already perfect and, from someone who also has metal rods screwed into their spine, it was a surprising and wonderful revelation to read about someone else going through those struggles both physically and mentally.
Gianluca is fantastic and the banter between the two was really fun and kept the book light! The plot twists kept coming at points where I least expected it and I have to say I didn’t expect that ending.
My only complaint was that it felt a little slow at times, but it did give you the impression of what a lazy Sunday morning in Venice would be like. The writing and descriptions are spot on and as a slow burn, this is very much an enjoyable read.
I received this book in exchange for my honest review.
April 13, 2022
If you like Venice, you'll love the lagoon!🌅
I enjoyed this romance which had a good share of very touching moments and the setting was sublime. Gianluca, the Venetian craftsman with a big heart that's been battered by family and an ill-fated romance, was a really appealing male lead and his slow build friends-then-more relationship with Norah, a visiting British marine biologist, was complex and drew me in. Their playful banter, texts and selfie exchanges made their growing physical and emotional closeness very realistic. Good secondary characters too.
While most people think of the Grand Canal and the historic serene city when they hear the setting is in Venice, this story also throws the focus on the small islands and peaceful stretches of the lagoon that have served as a protective barrier for the city for centuries. The author's descriptions really took me back to my trip to Burano and the further parts of the lagoon from forty years ago. She paints the scenery so lovingly and, at least in my experience, accurately.
I found this a long read for some reason but ultimately a good one. I loved the way Norah and Gianluca worked to come up with a solution for the major stumbling block keeping them from a happy life together. Although this novel is a follow-up to A Match Made in Venice, Norah's older sister's romance, it can totally be enjoyed as a standalone.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
I enjoyed this romance which had a good share of very touching moments and the setting was sublime. Gianluca, the Venetian craftsman with a big heart that's been battered by family and an ill-fated romance, was a really appealing male lead and his slow build friends-then-more relationship with Norah, a visiting British marine biologist, was complex and drew me in. Their playful banter, texts and selfie exchanges made their growing physical and emotional closeness very realistic. Good secondary characters too.
While most people think of the Grand Canal and the historic serene city when they hear the setting is in Venice, this story also throws the focus on the small islands and peaceful stretches of the lagoon that have served as a protective barrier for the city for centuries. The author's descriptions really took me back to my trip to Burano and the further parts of the lagoon from forty years ago. She paints the scenery so lovingly and, at least in my experience, accurately.
I found this a long read for some reason but ultimately a good one. I loved the way Norah and Gianluca worked to come up with a solution for the major stumbling block keeping them from a happy life together. Although this novel is a follow-up to A Match Made in Venice, Norah's older sister's romance, it can totally be enjoyed as a standalone.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
May 6, 2022
The Blurb :
When Norah arrives in Venice for a ten-week internship she is surprised to discover that her guide for her work trips around the lagoon is the undeniably gorgeous and kind Gianluca. She can’t help thinking he might be too good to be true, with his endless fascinating local stories, and his infectious laugh.
Norah is still bitter after an accident left her with a serious injury and also meant the end of her long-term relationship. And besides, she's serious about her career and that means leaving Venice at the end of the summer.
Gianluca has had a summer fling before that led to heartache for him and he won't do it again. He enjoys the long hours out on the lagoon with Norah, but after a storm strands them on a picture-perfect island for a night, they agree they should just be good friends for the summer.
But life doesn't always go to plan, and when it's time for Norah to go, they have to decide whether what they have between them is really just a friendship, and not something more…
My Thoughts :
The beautiful cover first drew me to this book and after reading the Blurb, I knew it was a book I wanted to read.
We meet 25 year old Norah York, having suffered a serious injury leaving her using a cane and pins in her back and the fact her relationship with Andrej has just broken down, Norah decides its time to get her life back on track and excepts a work trip to Venice, she works as a MicroBiologist and takes on a 10 week internship researching the algae growing in the lagoons there.
On arrival she meets her boss Manu, her first stop is being taken along to a wedding of the sea, which isnt quiet what Norah expects. There she meets the gorgous Gianluca, he has just been assigned to transport her in and around the waters in his boat Dafne to collect samples of the Algae.
Gianluca is also a Venetian oar maker and makes it clear from the start he is intrigued by Norah. Having had his heart broken also, Gianluca isnt looking for anything other than to do his job.
I really enjoyed Norah and Gianluca’s journey, as they learnt more about each other as the story went on but will there be any romance for the couple or do they think it is better to stay friends!?.
I really liked the way the Author brought Venice to life with the description of the Lagoon and the surrounding buildings, I felt transported to the heart of it.
Although a little slow to start, it soon picked up.
A great read from Leonie Mack.
When Norah arrives in Venice for a ten-week internship she is surprised to discover that her guide for her work trips around the lagoon is the undeniably gorgeous and kind Gianluca. She can’t help thinking he might be too good to be true, with his endless fascinating local stories, and his infectious laugh.
Norah is still bitter after an accident left her with a serious injury and also meant the end of her long-term relationship. And besides, she's serious about her career and that means leaving Venice at the end of the summer.
Gianluca has had a summer fling before that led to heartache for him and he won't do it again. He enjoys the long hours out on the lagoon with Norah, but after a storm strands them on a picture-perfect island for a night, they agree they should just be good friends for the summer.
But life doesn't always go to plan, and when it's time for Norah to go, they have to decide whether what they have between them is really just a friendship, and not something more…
My Thoughts :
The beautiful cover first drew me to this book and after reading the Blurb, I knew it was a book I wanted to read.
We meet 25 year old Norah York, having suffered a serious injury leaving her using a cane and pins in her back and the fact her relationship with Andrej has just broken down, Norah decides its time to get her life back on track and excepts a work trip to Venice, she works as a MicroBiologist and takes on a 10 week internship researching the algae growing in the lagoons there.
On arrival she meets her boss Manu, her first stop is being taken along to a wedding of the sea, which isnt quiet what Norah expects. There she meets the gorgous Gianluca, he has just been assigned to transport her in and around the waters in his boat Dafne to collect samples of the Algae.
Gianluca is also a Venetian oar maker and makes it clear from the start he is intrigued by Norah. Having had his heart broken also, Gianluca isnt looking for anything other than to do his job.
I really enjoyed Norah and Gianluca’s journey, as they learnt more about each other as the story went on but will there be any romance for the couple or do they think it is better to stay friends!?.
I really liked the way the Author brought Venice to life with the description of the Lagoon and the surrounding buildings, I felt transported to the heart of it.
Although a little slow to start, it soon picked up.
A great read from Leonie Mack.
May 4, 2022
We'll Always Have Venice by Leonie Mack.
When Norah arrives in Venice for a ten-week internship, she is surprised to discover that her guide for her work trips around the lagoon is the undeniably gorgeous and kind Gianluca. She can't help thinking he might be too good to be true, with his endless fascinating local stories and his infectious laugh.
Norah is still bitter after an accident left her with a severe injury and ended her long-term relationship. And besides, she's serious about her career, which means leaving Venice at the end of the summer.
Gianluca had had a summer fling before that led to heartache, and he won't do it again. He enjoys the long hours out on the lagoon with Norah, but after a storm strands them on a picture-perfect island for a night, they agree they should just be good friends for the summer.
But life doesn't always go to plan, and when it's time for Norah to go, they have to decide whether what they have between them is just a friendship and not something more.
Romantic escapism at its best is what you will find between the pages of Leonie's latest story.
When talking about romance and romantic chemistry, there are not many places better than Venice to do it.
A thoughtful novel with an abundance of heartfelt emotion and romance, it is a well written, captivating story.
I want to thank Boldwood Books, Leonie Mack and Rachel's Random Resources for the invite to read and review.
When Norah arrives in Venice for a ten-week internship, she is surprised to discover that her guide for her work trips around the lagoon is the undeniably gorgeous and kind Gianluca. She can't help thinking he might be too good to be true, with his endless fascinating local stories and his infectious laugh.
Norah is still bitter after an accident left her with a severe injury and ended her long-term relationship. And besides, she's serious about her career, which means leaving Venice at the end of the summer.
Gianluca had had a summer fling before that led to heartache, and he won't do it again. He enjoys the long hours out on the lagoon with Norah, but after a storm strands them on a picture-perfect island for a night, they agree they should just be good friends for the summer.
But life doesn't always go to plan, and when it's time for Norah to go, they have to decide whether what they have between them is just a friendship and not something more.
Romantic escapism at its best is what you will find between the pages of Leonie's latest story.
When talking about romance and romantic chemistry, there are not many places better than Venice to do it.
A thoughtful novel with an abundance of heartfelt emotion and romance, it is a well written, captivating story.
I want to thank Boldwood Books, Leonie Mack and Rachel's Random Resources for the invite to read and review.
May 4, 2022
This is my first time reading something by Ms. Mack and I can tell you it definitely won't be my last. It was a fun read, but a story that also gave me all the feels. The characters are well-developed and endearing and so relatable you can't help but fall in love with them. After an accident that left her with a long term injury and dependent on a cane, Norah is determined to get her life and career as a marine biologist back on track. She accepts an internship opportunity in Venice hoping it will help her do just that. She wasn't looking for love, and never expected to find the right guy, but life can surprise you and deliver blessings when you least expect them. Gianluca has tried the summer fling thing before, and it ended in heartache and has no desire to go through that again. After her internship finishes, Norah will be leaving, so he thinks it's best just to remain friends. But neither can deny the strong feelings they have for each other and there may be a lot more to this friendship if both are willing to give it a chance. It was so heartwarming to experience their relationship as it developed and grew. These two were so wonderful together and just had the sweetest most amazing chemistry. This was a really entertaining and enjoyable story and am glad I had the opportunity to read it. I will definitely be looking for more by this author!
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
I received a complimentary copy from Netgalley and am voluntarily leaving my review.
May 5, 2022
Thank you #Netgalley and #Boldwoodbooks for letting me read this beautiful ARC in exchange for an honest review. This is a sweet romance set up with a time limit, the weary and shy Norah who is a Marine Biologist researching the Unique Ecosystem of the Venice Lagoon, based there for 10 weeks. Gianluca aka Lulu :) is her driver and a very talented carver too. Over time they grow closer through their random adventures whilst she gathers her samples in the Lagoon. The book has many venetian dialect references. Manu, her host has a very fraught relationship with Gianluca which is apparent from the get go, nothing is quite what it seems though. Love is a complex emotion that many of us don't feel deserving of. Will Gianluca and Norah work it out? Will they find a way to make love last beyond the time restriction? Sometimes love can help us overcome all kinds of trauma, I love that Gianluca is so clever with his hands and creativity. I really enjoyed the highs and lows of this romance, the mental blocks we put in place to keep love at arms length take a strong person with enough love for two. We also meet Saffron and Neal, Didi and a fair few others, locals too, Leonie Mac really did a wonderful job, I laughed, smiled and gasped my way through the story. I also love that Karen Cass narrated the Audio version of this book, as I have many audible collections read by her. Small gripe, she to me sounded more Latin American than Italian, however still awesome.
June 19, 2022
🛶We'll always have Venice by Leonie Mack💖
I cannot resist a romance set in Italy so I knew I had to pick this one up.
Synopsis 📖
Norah has a 10 week internship in Venice, after a tough year recovering from an accident that resulted in her longterm relationship ending. As part of her work she needs to collect samples from the lagoon and she is accompanied by the undeniably gorgeous and kind Gianluca. She can’t help thinking he might be too good to be true.
Gianluca has had a summer fling before that led to heartache for him and he won't do it again. He enjoys the long hours out on the lagoon with Norah, but after a storm strands them on a picture-perfect island for a night, they agree they should just be good friends for the summer.
But life doesn't always go to plan, and when it's time for Norah to go, they have to decide whether what they have between them is really just a friendship, and not something more…
My rating 3.5 ⭐️
Things I loved about this book
💕Friends to lovers romance
💕one bed trope
💕Great secondary characters
💕woman in science
Things I didn't like
🛑I wasn't a fan of Manu, one of the characters and I think that her ARC could have had more depth to the resolution
🛑slow plot, I think there could have been a bit of a faster pace
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood books for my ARC in exchange the review.
I cannot resist a romance set in Italy so I knew I had to pick this one up.
Synopsis 📖
Norah has a 10 week internship in Venice, after a tough year recovering from an accident that resulted in her longterm relationship ending. As part of her work she needs to collect samples from the lagoon and she is accompanied by the undeniably gorgeous and kind Gianluca. She can’t help thinking he might be too good to be true.
Gianluca has had a summer fling before that led to heartache for him and he won't do it again. He enjoys the long hours out on the lagoon with Norah, but after a storm strands them on a picture-perfect island for a night, they agree they should just be good friends for the summer.
But life doesn't always go to plan, and when it's time for Norah to go, they have to decide whether what they have between them is really just a friendship, and not something more…
My rating 3.5 ⭐️
Things I loved about this book
💕Friends to lovers romance
💕one bed trope
💕Great secondary characters
💕woman in science
Things I didn't like
🛑I wasn't a fan of Manu, one of the characters and I think that her ARC could have had more depth to the resolution
🛑slow plot, I think there could have been a bit of a faster pace
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood books for my ARC in exchange the review.
June 19, 2022
🛶We'll always have Venice by Leonie Mack💖
I cannot resist a romance set in Italy so I knew I had to pick this one up.
Synopsis 📖
Norah has a 10 week internship in Venice, after a tough year recovering from an accident that resulted in her longterm relationship ending. As part of her work she needs to collect samples from the lagoon and she is accompanied by the undeniably gorgeous and kind Gianluca. She can’t help thinking he might be too good to be true.
Gianluca has had a summer fling before that led to heartache for him and he won't do it again. He enjoys the long hours out on the lagoon with Norah, but after a storm strands them on a picture-perfect island for a night, they agree they should just be good friends for the summer.
But life doesn't always go to plan, and when it's time for Norah to go, they have to decide whether what they have between them is really just a friendship, and not something more…
My rating 3.5 ⭐️
Things I loved about this book
💕Friends to lovers romance
💕one bed trope
💕Great secondary characters
💕woman in science
Things I didn't like
🛑I wasn't a fan of Manu, one of the characters and I think that her ARC could have had more depth to the resolution
🛑slow plot, I think there could have been a bit of a faster pace
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood books for my ARC in exchange the review.
I cannot resist a romance set in Italy so I knew I had to pick this one up.
Synopsis 📖
Norah has a 10 week internship in Venice, after a tough year recovering from an accident that resulted in her longterm relationship ending. As part of her work she needs to collect samples from the lagoon and she is accompanied by the undeniably gorgeous and kind Gianluca. She can’t help thinking he might be too good to be true.
Gianluca has had a summer fling before that led to heartache for him and he won't do it again. He enjoys the long hours out on the lagoon with Norah, but after a storm strands them on a picture-perfect island for a night, they agree they should just be good friends for the summer.
But life doesn't always go to plan, and when it's time for Norah to go, they have to decide whether what they have between them is really just a friendship, and not something more…
My rating 3.5 ⭐️
Things I loved about this book
💕Friends to lovers romance
💕one bed trope
💕Great secondary characters
💕woman in science
Things I didn't like
🛑I wasn't a fan of Manu, one of the characters and I think that her ARC could have had more depth to the resolution
🛑slow plot, I think there could have been a bit of a faster pace
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood books for my ARC in exchange the review.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews