Book Review of The View From Lake Como by Adriana Trigiani – A Story of Healing, Heritage, and Hope

The View From Lake Como is a heartfelt and sensory-rich story about a woman who rediscovers her worth, her creativity, and a new sense of home in the marble hills of Italy.

Summary:

Recently divorced and feeling stuck in her small-town life in Lake Como, New Jersey, Jess Capodimonte Baratta retreats to her parents’ basement, sacrificing her own dreams while caring for her family and working in the family marble business. When a tragic loss shakes both the Capodimonte and Baratta clans, long-buried secrets surface, prompting Jess to flee to her ancestral homeland of Carrara, Italy. There, amid the marble mountains of Tuscany and the romance of Milan and Lake Como, Jess begins to rediscover her creativity and worth, especially after meeting Angelo Strazza, a passionate gold artist. As she uncovers the truth about her family’s past, Jess must find the strength to carve out a new life—one filled with art, love, and purpose—in a heartfelt, humorous story about reinvention and the pursuit of a meaningful, creative life.

My Thoughts:

From the very first pages of The View From Lake Como, I was drawn into Jess Capodimonte Baratta’s story—a woman doing everything right by her family but feeling completely lost in her own life. After the collapse of her marriage, Jess finds herself back in her childhood home in Lake Como, New Jersey (yes, that Lake Como), living in her parents’ basement and sacrificing her own needs for everyone else’s. She’s the overlooked daughter—the one who dutifully cares for her ageing parents, cooks the Sunday dinners, and never complains, even though it’s clear she’s never received the same respect or recognition that her older brother has always been given. That unequal treatment cuts deep and quietly fuels Jess’s longing for something more.

One of the most compelling elements of Jess’ story is how Adriana Trigiani captures the dynamic within Italian-American families so vividly—something that felt rich and familiar, even to those of us reading from afar. Jess’ bond with her dapper and supportive Uncle Louie, who runs the family’s marble business, adds heart and humour to the narrative. His belief in her talents offers the encouragement she’s been missing.

When tragedy unexpectedly strikes, Jess finds herself at a crossroads. Faced with grief, secrets, and a heavy legacy, she makes the bold decision to travel to Carrara, Italy—the origin of the family’s marble business—in search of healing and a fresh start. I loved following her journey through Tuscany, Milan, and the “other” Lake Como, rediscovering her creative talents and embracing a life that finally centres her.

Her time in Italy is a feast for the senses—from the scenery and food to the people she meets, including Angelo, an artist who works in gold and may just be the spark Jess needs to believe in love again. Their connection and the mystery surrounding his family kept me invested, especially as Jess uncovers truths that ripple through both her new and old worlds. As someone who has visited this region myself, I was transported right back to the marble mountains, cobblestone streets, and unforgettable meals. Trigiani writes Italy with such affection—it made me long to return.

The Narration:

The audiobook is a real treat. Narrated by Mira Sorvino, it’s a pitch-perfect performance that captures Jess’ voice and infuses every Italian phrase with warmth and authenticity. If you enjoy audiobooks, this one is well worth the listen.

Final Thoughts:

The View From Lake Como is about more than just escape and reinvention—it’s about honouring your roots while finally stepping into your own worth. With charm, heart, and humour, Trigiani delivers a moving story of one woman carving out a life that truly fits—on her own terms.

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