An Italian Island Secret by Victoria Springfield

An Italian Island Secret by Victoria Springfield
published 21 January 2025

PUBLISHER: Boldwood Books
FOMAT: Digital (via NetGalley)
PAGES: 310
ISBN: 9781836336358

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🌟 Review Note:
Thank you to author Victoria Springfield, Boldwood Books, and NetGalley for the chance to read and review an early copy of this beautiful story. I’m thrilled to have been introduced to a new-to-me author whose writing I thoroughly enjoyed.

As always, this review reflects my honest thoughts.

About the book

It’s time to return to Ischia…

Alessia knows her grandmother grew up on the beautiful Italian island off the coast from Naples. But Ornella seldom talks about her life there – or why she never went back. So Alessia is amazed when Ornella reveals that as a young woman, she had worked on the set of a famous 1950s movie filmed on the island. Is there a link between the film set and the tragic death of Ornella’s teenage sister?

Ornella has kept her past – and the life-changing promise she made – a secret for over sixty years. She has tried not to think about the love she gave up. But now, perhaps the truth should finally be revealed…

Travelling to Ischia together, Alessia falls in love with the captivating island. Meeting handsome journalist Roberto helps her dig deeper into her family’s past, too. Just what happened to Ornella’s sister? What heart-wrenching secret is her grandmother hiding?

This summer, can Alessia and Ornella put the past to rest and find the happy ending they both deserve?

About the Author

The Author, Victoria Springfield, writes contemporary women’s fiction immersed in the sights, sounds and flavours of Italy.

Her feel-good stories follow unforgettable characters of all ages as they find adventure, friendship and romance.

Victoria grew up in Upminster, Essex. After many years in London, she now lives in Kent with her husband in a house by the river. She likes to write in the garden with a neighbour’s cat by her feet or whilst drinking cappuccino in her favourite café. Then she types up her scribblings in silence whilst her mind drifts away to Italy.

Open a Victoria Springfield book and feel the sunshine!

Victoria is a member of the Romantic Novelists’ Association.

Find out more about Victoria, and contact her on social media:

My Five Star Review

An Italian Island Secret by Victoria Springfield is a captivating read that transports you straight to the enchanting island of Ischia. The story is rich with substance and emotion, weaving together themes of family loyalty, hidden pasts, and personal sacrifices in a way that feels deeply authentic and moving.

The vivid descriptions of Ischia are breathtaking; I could almost feel the warmth of the sun and see the beauty of the landmarks as I read. The author’s intimate knowledge and love for the island shine through, and I found myself frequently Googling the places mentioned to immerse myself even further—each time, they were exactly as described. Reading about this idyllic setting while snow fell outside my window made it all the more magical.

What stood out most was how naturally the threads of the story came together. The narrative felt like life itself—unfolding in a way that was both simple and profound. The romance was understated and genuine, allowing the relationships to develop at a realistic and heartfelt pace, rather than overwhelming the story.

The characters were wonderfully crafted—each one memorable and endearing, except for a single exception, but they don’t deserve any more of my attention! Ornella’s journey to confront her past and Alessia’s discovery of her family’s history were both poignant and inspiring.

This book had the feel of a “proper” novel, the kind with real depth and heart, reminiscent of older stories that stay with you long after you’ve finished reading.

Victoria Springfield has created a masterpiece that I will treasure and happily recommend to others.

See About My Reviews and Review FAQ for full star rating explanations and review guidelines.

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DISCLOSURE: I received an advance or review copy of this book. As always, my thoughts are honest and my own.
DISCLOSURE: I received a review copy of this book via NetGalley/Zooloo’s Book Tours. As always, my thoughts are honest and my own.
DISCLOSURE: I purchased this book myself. As always, my thoughts are honest and my own.

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