Some Journeys Take Us Far, Only to Bring Us Back to What We Were Meant To Find
Others are written in the hills of Tuscany.
If you love Tuscany, Italy, and stories that transport you to breathtaking landscapes with vivid descriptions, Ciao, Amore Mio…The Tale of Gabby and Gio, An Italian Discovery is a must-read.
This fictional novella is more than just a contemporary love story—it’s an emotional journey of self-discovery, sacrifice, and the pursuit of home, set against the stunning backdrop of the Italian countryside.
At the story’s center is Giovanni (Gio), a man drawn to the freedom of nomadic life, and Gabriella (Gabby), whose deep connection to her agriturismo, La Terre Felice, keeps her rooted.
Their journey is one of longing, devotion, and the constant tension between freedom and responsibility. Readers will be immersed in a world where love and duty collide, forcing difficult choices that linger long after the final page.
The novel has quietly gained momentum, with readers praising its evocative storytelling and rich sense of place.
“Readers are revisiting memories and discovering the breathtaking experience of traveling to Tuscany and Italy from the comfort of their favorite chair,” says author J.A. Marz. “Along with an aperitivo of choice, this novella offers an escape to taste la dolce vita.”
Readers have compared it to Under the Tuscan Sun, highlighting how the novella captures the essence of Tuscany—its rolling vineyards, rustic charm, and soulful way of life that makes Italy so captivating.
Published in January, the early reviews continue to build excitement for the story and its characters who will emotionally embrace readers throughout this Italian journey.
Here are a few examples:
· “I just finished Ciao, Amore Mio and I loved it! The storytelling transported me straight to Italy with its rich details and vivid descriptions-I could practically taste the espresso and feel the Mediterranean breeze. I kept turning the pages, needing to know what would happen next. With all the cinematic moments and cultural depth, I could easily see this as a movie. As someone with Italian roots from Sicily and Naples, I connected with the characters and their journey. The references to family, tradition, and culture made it feel even more personal and authentic. If you love romance, travel, and stories that whisk you away to a dreamy Italian setting, this is a must-read.”
· “The author shows great skill and insight in developing the characters in this book. It was easy to imagine the stunning beauty of Gabby and her agriturismo La Terre Felice along with her strong resolve in understanding Gio’s passions that drove him. J.A. Marz captures the essence of a country’s beauty, its people, and their commitment to keeping the old ways alive. A beautiful story set in a most beautiful land.”
· “This was a poignant story of love at first sight and one man’s transformation. It would be an easy read but I chose to savor it in chunks. This book had its share of “Oh No!” and “Oh Yeah!” moments. The imagery and character development reminded me how much I enjoyed visiting Italy and makes me want to return someday.”
· “A beautifully written novella of love, heartache, and loyalty. The life journey of Gabby and Gio in Tuscany brought me back to a country I love. Having visited the cities and villages portrayed in the story many times, the imagery, and all the details brought me back. The story will make a stunning movie one day!”
Book club discussions are being scheduled in the coming weeks and whispers about how to bring Gabby and Gio to life on film are adding to the intrigue.
“It’s every author’s dream to see their story on the big screen,” adds J.A. “It is a dream right now, but the possibility of seeing the fictional La Terre Felice in real life has only fueled interest in the novel’s setting.”
Meanwhile, the Tuscan countryside has seen an increase in literary travelers seeking the kind of immersive experience described in the book. The idea of an agriturismo as both a haven and a crossroads has resonated, leading some to discover their version of La Terre Felice.
Whether you’re looking for a compelling, heartfelt story or a novel that transports you straight to Italy with every turn of the page, Ciao, Amore Mio…The Tale of Gabby and Gio delivers an unforgettable experience.
Looking ahead, the journey of this novella is still unfolding, and its themes remain timeless—reminding us all that home is not just a place, but a choice.
Book Synopsis:
A Heart-Wrenching Tale of Love, Fate, and the Unbreakable Bond Between Two Souls-Set in the Enchanting Tuscan Countryside
Beneath the golden light of Tuscany’s rolling vineyards, among ancient olive groves and medieval villages, two souls collide-one searching for home, the other always running from it.
- Gio Marzo, a renowned travel writer and golf hustler, has spent his life chasing adventure.
- Gabriella “Gabby” Rosetti is rooted in the land she loves, devoted to her family’s beloved agriturismo, La Terre Felice.
- Their passion ignites in San Gimignano, but when love and dreams clash, heartbreak is inevitable.
- As fate forces Gio to make an impossible choice, he must confront the one truth he’s always avoided: Some love stories are meant to change us forever.
- Perfect for fans of The Light We Lost and Under the Tuscan Sun, this emotionally gripping romance is filled with longing, sacrifice, and self-discovery.
- Lose yourself in the magic of Tuscany.
