Review: The View From Lake Como by Adriana Trigiani
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The View From Lake Como by Adriana Trigiani swept me off my feet and straight into the heart of Italy – Carrara, Italy, to be exact. Adriana Trigiani has done it again with a story full of charm, resilience, family drama, and (yes!) an irresistible Italian book boyfriend. If you’ve ever dreamed of the Tuscan hills or adore multigenerational tales with heart and humor, this is the one to grab.
If you’ve ever dreamed of the Tuscan hills or love multigenerational stories filled with family, food, tradition, and second chances, this is one to put on your list.
My Take: This was an easy five-star read for me. I loved the family story, the Italian setting, Jess’s reinvention, and pretty much everything involving Angelo Strazza. Days after finishing it, I was still thinking about the marble mountains, the traditions, and that blue Fiat. My Verdict? Re-Read. This is exactly the kind of book I’d happily return to for the setting, the family, and the feeling of being transported to Italy.
What It’s About
The View From Lake Como by Adriana Trigiani follows Jess Capodimonte Baratta, a recently divorced woman living in her parents’ basement in Lake Como, New Jersey, and juggling caregiving duties for her aging parents. When her beloved Uncle Louie passes away, she inherits his marble company – along with a few unexpected legal messes, courtesy of a mysterious shell corporation and an FBI investigation.
Determined to learn more about the family business and her own roots, Jess heads to Carrara, Italy, the origin of the Capodimonte marble legacy. There, she uncovers more than just business secrets – she finds beauty, purpose, passion, and Angelo Strazza, a local artist who works in gold and quietly steals every reader’s heart.
As Jess steps into a new life full of Italian sunshine, layered family secrets, and second chances, she learns that sometimes the path forward begins with a return to where it all began.
The View From Lake Como by Adriana Trigiani – What I Liked
Adriana Trigiani’s The View from Lake Como is a richly atmospheric novel that blends romance, self-discovery, and the allure of Italy’s Lake Como. In this review, I’ll highlight the moments that captured me, the parts that felt weaker (if any), and how this book fits within Trigiani’s warm, character-driven storytelling style.
The Setting
Carrara! Italy! Marble mountains! I was fully transported. Trigiani’s writing made me feel the texture of the marble dust, hear the clinking of espresso cups, and see the soft light drifting through gauzy curtains in a studio apartment overlooking a piazza.
The Characters
Jess is relatable, brave, and complex. I loved the layers of her journey—from heartbreak to healing to finding new love. And Uncle Louie? A scene-stealing legend. His chartreuse Impala alone deserves its own novella.
The Book Boyfriend
Angelo Strazza. Enough said. A golden-hearted artist with swoony Italian charm? He might just be one of my favorite book boyfriends of the year.
The Plot & Storyline
Italian names, traditions, family bonds, food, language—all woven in seamlessly. If you’ve ever loved Italy, this book will feel like going home.
The View From Lake Como – What I Didn’t Like
Honestly? Nothing. I wouldn’t change a single thing.
The View From Lake Como – Read, Re-read, or Reconsider?
Re-read.
Frequently Asked Questions About The View From Lake Como
Is this book part of a series?
Nope! It’s a standalone novel, though longtime Trigiani fans will love the familiar warmth and themes.
Do I need to read The Good Left Undone first?
No, but if you haven’t read it yet, do yourself a favor and read it next. Here’s our full review of The Good Left Undone.
Is this a romance?
There’s romance, yes – but this is more of a personal journey story, with love as one of many layers.
Is Carrara a real place?
Yes! Carrara, Italy, is world-famous for its marble and has a long, fascinating history. The setting is real, and Trigiani brings it vividly to life.
Is The View From Lake Como Worth Reading?
Definitely yes. The View From Lake Como is Adriana Trigiani at her best – effortless storytelling, unforgettable characters, and a setting so vivid it practically glows. I didn’t just love this book – I lived in it. And now that I’ve finished it, I’m already missing it. This one’s going on the reread shelf.
What To Read Next
- The Good Left Undone by Adriana Trigiani – Read the Review
- Adriana Trigiani Books In Order – Complete Bibliography
- Ultimate Guide to Historical Fiction – Escape Into the Past
- The Page Turner by Viola Shipman
- The Rose Arbor by Rhys Bowen
Looking for more sweeping stories about families, relationships, and reinvention? Browse our Romance section for more character-driven reads.
