Whirlwind Romance Through the Streets of Rome

Title: All Roads Lead to Rome

Author: Sabrian Fedel

Publication Date: June 18, 2024

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Synopsis

When the daughter of a diplomat fake dates a Scottish celebrity in Italy, she soon finds herself living her own Roman Holiday until the feelings get real and the paparazzi’s knives come out.

Introverted, slightly anxious Astoria “Story” Herriot knows everything about Rome—her mom’s an attorney here and the two of them are living la dolce vita… at least until Story’s off to college in the fall.

But when Story is in the wrong gelato shop at the right time, she’s swept up in a fake dating scheme with Scottish heartthrob, Luca Kinnaird, to protect his relationship with a pop princess. There’s something in it for her, too—Luca promises to help fund a scholarship in her dad’s memory. Soon she’s showing Luca the best cafés, sightseeing at the Mouth of Truth, and picnicking at the ruins of the Abbey of Santa Maria del Piano. Story’s travel guide skills are 10/10, but what she knows about being a celebrity—or having feelings for one? Zero.

Pretending to be Luca’s guide—then his girlfriend—gets the paparazzi’s attention . . . and what’s true and what’s fake gets blurry as their different worlds crash together. Sophisticated, hot, rich, and with the most charming accent ever, Luca is full of surprises. And maybe, too, is Story’s perfectly planned future.

It’s a fairy-tale romance in the Eternal City…will it have a fairy tale ending?

Review

Sabrina Fedel’s “All Roads Lead to Rome” offers readers a charming and nostalgic journey reminiscent of classic rom-coms, with a modern twist set against the backdrop of the Eternal City. With echoes of “Roman Holiday” and a fresh take on familiar tropes, this gender-reversed tale delivers a delightful blend of romance, humor, and social commentary.

At the heart of the story is Astoria “Story” Herriot, a shy and introspective young woman whose life takes an unexpected turn when she becomes embroiled in a fake dating scheme with Scottish celebrity Luca Kinnaird. As their worlds collide amidst the picturesque streets of Rome, Story finds herself navigating the complexities of fame, love, and personal identity.

Fedel’s narrative is infused with a palpable sense of wanderlust, transporting readers to the enchanting streets and landmarks of Rome. Through meticulous attention to detail and vivid descriptions, the author captures the essence of the city, allowing readers to immerse themselves in its rich history and vibrant culture.

The dynamic between Story and Luca is both endearing and electrifying, fueled by their undeniable chemistry and the tension of their contrasting backgrounds. Luca’s swoon-worthy charm and Scottish charisma add depth to his character, while Story’s relatable vulnerability and wit make her a captivating protagonist.

While the novel excels in its depiction of romance and setting, there are moments where the pacing falters, particularly in the second half of the story. Some scenes could benefit from more emotional depth and development, enhancing the overall impact of pivotal moments in the plot.

Despite these minor flaws, “All Roads Lead to Rome” is a delightful read that blends timeless romance with modern sensibilities. Fedel skillfully navigates themes of social media scrutiny, class differences, personal growth, and addiction, offering readers a thought-provoking exploration of love and authenticity in the digital age.

With its evocative setting, engaging characters, and heartfelt message, “All Roads Lead to Rome” is sure to captivate fans of contemporary romance and classic cinema alike. Whether you’re longing for a virtual tour of Rome or a heartwarming love story with a twist, this novel delivers an enchanting journey with a fairy-tale ending that will leave you longing for amore.