Last Voyage of the Valentina
A tale of love, betrayal, and secrets across generations.
Format:Paperback
Publisher:Simon & Schuster Ltd
Published:23rd Oct '14
Should be back in stock very soon
This captivating tale weaves together war-time intrigue and romance, exploring the impact of a long-ago tragedy on a young woman's life in modern Italy.
In Last Voyage of the Valentina, readers are transported to post-war Italy, where the remnants of conflict still cast a long shadow over the idyllic countryside. The story begins in 1945, with the brutal murder of an eccentric aristocrat in his palatial home, a crime that remains unsolved. This tragic event sets off a chain of intrigue that echoes through the years, intertwining the lives of those who are drawn into its web. The lush landscapes of Italy serve as both a backdrop and a character in itself, rich with the scent of figs and the weight of history.
Fast forward to London in 1971, where we meet Alba, a spirited young woman living on a houseboat in the heart of a vibrant and changing city. The unsolved murder from decades prior resurfaces, impacting her life in unexpected ways. As Alba navigates her own journey of love, decadence, and betrayal, the narrative skillfully weaves between the past and present. The allure of the Amalfi Coast beckons, promising both beauty and the haunting echoes of wartime tragedy.
As the story unfolds, secrets from the past come to light, revealing a complex tapestry of partisans, Nazis, and the enigmatic figure of Alba’s mother. Last Voyage of the Valentina is a compelling exploration of how history shapes personal destinies, and the enduring power of love amidst the chaos of war.
‘This is Santa Montefiore at her best – an enchanting read overflowing with deliciously poignant moments. If you love a heartfelt, epic trilogy this is for you. I loved it and can’t wait for more’ -- Dinah Jefferies, author of The Tea Planter's Wife, on Songs of Love and War
‘Nobody does epic romance like Santa Montefiore. Everything she writes, she writes from the heart’ -- Jojo Moyes
‘A multigenerational banquet of love: falling in, falling out, rediscovering,rekindling. The Beekeeper’s Daughter features sophisticated, irresistible backdrops and brilliantly drawn characters that made it one of the most engrossing reads of my year’ -- Elin Hilderbrand, author of The Matchmaker, on The Beekeeper's Daughter
‘I raced through this feel-good romantic story, which spans continents and decades’ -- Fanny Blake * Woman & Home on The Beekeeper's Daughter *
‘This deeply romantic saunter is an ideal summer read. Laced with secrets and forbidden liaisons, it is sure to keep you turning the pages’ * The Lady on The Beekeeper's Daughter *
‘Santa Montefiore is the new Rosamunde Pilcher’ * Daily Mail *
‘A superb storyteller of love and death in romantic places in fascinating times’ * Vogue *
‘A gripping romance . . . it is as believable as the writing is beautiful’ * Daily Telegraph *
‘Anyone who likes Joanne Harris or Mary Wesley will love Montefiore’ * Mail on Sunday *
‘One of our personal favourites and bestselling authors, sweeping stories of love and families spanning continents and decades’ * The Times *
‘Engaging and charming’ -- Penny Vincenzi
ISBN: 9781471132001
Dimensions: unknown
Weight: unknown
416 pages