Brava, Valentine

Cassandra Campbell continues her portrayal of Valentine Roncalli in the second book in Trigiani's trilogy, which began with VERY VALENTINE. Campbell moves seamlessly from Italian-accented English to smooth Italian dialogue in the interactions between Valentine's extended and boisterous family, which has expanded to include her grandmother's new husband and Valentine's love interest, Gianluca. As Valentine, Campbell gives an expressive and energetic performance, pulling the emotion from every exchange with friends and family while presenting the narrative passages about Italy, interior design, and shoemaking in the unfolding drama. Best of all, the deeper, husky voicing of the sexy Gianluca will have listeners waiting impatiently for the next installment. E.N. Winner of AudioFile Earphones Award (c) AudioFile 2010, Portland, Maine

December 21, 2009
Trigiani's sequel to Very Valentine
is a sweet second act for shoemaker and designer Valentine Roncalli. Val takes over the New York family-run shoe business with feet-of-clay older brother, Alfred; falls for the dashing, older Gianluca in Italy; and takes a business risk in South America, where she unearths a dusty chapter of family history. There are plenty of picturesque globe-trotting adventures in Tuscany, Manhattan, and Buenos Aires, and, for artistic and independent Val, a grown-up commitment evolves. “There is no art without love. Only love can open someone up to the possibilities of living and creating art,” Val writes to the wary Gianluca. And the startling twist of family history finally challenges an old-fashioned, insular clan to join the modern world. But it's always the endearing, unnerving and rowdy Roncallis who steal the show. Look for a heartbreaking exit of one beloved character, and a cliffhanger breakup in this charming valentine to love, forgiveness, and family.