Book Review — Brava, Valentine by Adriana Trigiani
A Romantic Sequel That Delivers Heart and Humor
Adriana Trigiani’s Brava, Valentine is the brilliant follow-up to Very Valentine, continuing the story of Valentine Roncalli — an artisan shoemaker from Greenwich Village with a love for tradition and a heart yearning for both family connection and romance. This novel blends Italian-American heritage, generational conflict, business challenges, and swoon-worthy romance into a seamless narrative that charms from start to finish.
Plot Summary — Tuscany Weddings and Business Rivalries
The story begins with a picturesque wedding in Tuscany, where Valentine’s beloved grandmother Teodora marries her longtime sweetheart, Dominic. However, the celebratory tone is short-lived when Teodora announces that Valentine must share leadership of the family business, Angelini Shoes, with her brother Alfred — a character who has often stood in direct contrast to her dreams and ambitions.
Emotionally thrown, Valentine finds solace in Gianluca, a dashing Tuscan tanner whose romantic letters stir something deep within her. Yet the distance and cultural differences create obstacles she’s unsure they can overcome. A surprising business opportunity sends her to Buenos Aires, where she uncovers a decades-old family secret that challenges her understanding of her own lineage.
Themes and Style — A Rich Tapestry of Emotion
Trigiani’s writing is lush and vivid, with settings that feel like characters themselves — from the cobbled streets of Italy to the artistic neighborhoods of New York. The author masterfully captures the tension between tradition and independence, family loyalty and personal identity.
Brava, Valentine thrives on its emotional depth. Trigiani doesn’t shy away from life’s complexities — the push and pull of love, the demands of legacy, and the bittersweet moments that define adulthood. But what truly elevates this book is its humor. There are laugh-out-loud scenes balanced with moments of profound introspection.
Character Development — Valentine Shines Bright
Valentine is a compelling protagonist — ambitious, emotional, flawed, and relatable. Her journey is both professional and personal. Readers will admire her for not only chasing her dreams but for confronting difficult truths about her family and herself. Gianluca, the romantic lead, is refreshingly mature and sincere, making their relationship feel genuine and grounded despite the challenges.
Supporting characters like Gram Teodora, Alfred, and the extended Roncalli family add richness and realism to the story. The family dynamics are at once chaotic and heartwarming — exactly what you’d expect from a close-knit Italian-American clan.
Pros and Cons
✔️ What Works:
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Rich cultural and geographical settings
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Strong female protagonist
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A balance of humor and emotion
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Intriguing family secrets and business drama
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Beautifully written romantic tension
❌ Minor Gripe:
Trigiani’s books, including this one, often linger lovingly on food descriptions — which, while delightful, may make you perpetually hungry while reading.
Final Verdict
Reading Brava, Valentine is like savoring a fine Italian meal — warm, comforting, and deeply satisfying. It offers a poignant exploration of love, legacy, and what it means to build a future without forgetting your roots. It’s also a novel that doesn’t rely on cheap cliffhangers; while it sets the stage for more, it gives readers a complete and rewarding experience.
Recommendation & Rating
If you’re new to Adriana Trigiani’s work, start with Very Valentine to fully appreciate Valentine’s journey. But rest assured, Brava, Valentine stands strong on its own. Fans of women’s fiction, romantic comedies, and stories about family and self-discovery will find much to love here.
✅ Appropriate for younger readers: Yes. The romance is tasteful, and the themes are mature without being explicit.
Rating:
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Characters: 5/5
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Plot: 5/5
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Setting & Imagery: 5/5
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Originality: 5/5
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Ending: 5/5
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Total: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (25/25)
