Forget any notion that art simply imitates life. Life is an art. A well-lived life is a masterpiece. Julia DeRosa, an artist at a crossroads, longs to fill the negative spaces in her life with new beginnings.
The story starts with a memory revealed in a dream. A dream that sets in motion a cascade of revelations. Recently divorced and unemployed, Julia finds herself living alone in a small house in Astoria. The reappearance of a childhood friend, Sam, complicates matters. Haunting memories, surprising realities, and personal triumphs draw a new, unexpected picture.
Spanning decades of their lives, family members lift themselves off the pages and into your heart. Hope, sorrow, and love paint a poignant portrait of a family.
Always Julia is an emotional roller coaster with unexpected twists and turns. This fast-paced novel draws you in and leaves you wanting more.
My God this woman is tough. And snarky. And quick. And, oh did I say fragile and needy, floundering through her life. Right away, I am intrigued by this family. Tell me please how to develop the kind of relationship she has with her granddaughter Bella with mine. There are twists I never expected and still the characters are genuine, honest and compelling. Of course Julia has a wry, laugh out loud comeback for every challenge. And of course she deals with childhood trauma, and a mysterious almost supernatural connection to the events of her past. And of course she accepts it all in a straight-forward and even creative way. And guess what, she manages to pull it off. If you want to become immersed in the lives characters that truly grow and change, read this book!
The book started slow for me but then, the magic, where the characters inhabit your psyche and come on strong. A lovely tale to be sure, lots of little twists and more than enough irony to keep your interest rushing further into the story. I’m really looking forward to her next book!
If you like to feel connected to an independent woman with some considerable life experience, know complications can come from beloved friends & family units, are familiar with New Yorkers from the NYC area, and a survivor, you’ll relate to the main character, Julia. A single mom, who loves and has a relationship with her only daughter and granddaughter, Julia manages to have her own life without compromising her privacy. I loved experiencing Julia’s power to hold her dignity and privacy while allowing herself to explore new situations and relationships. 👍👍
This debut novel by Ava Zacardi was a satisfying and entertaining read … it was one of those family relationship stories you don’t want to put down, and leaves you wanting more … you are invested in these characters, and want to know what happens next in their lives … how about it Ava … book #2?
I loved the storyline. It touched on many topics that are important in my life right now. Loved the short segments/chapters that were perfect for reading in bed before I turn out the lights.
Wonderfully fabulous read. The characters are so relatable, warm and terrific. I really couldn’t stop reading. Please please I hope a new book is a-comin’ soon!