Step into the vibrant world of Adriana Trigiani’s Valentine Trilogy, where Italian-American charm, romance, and the art of shoemaking weave a heartwarming tale! This contemporary romance series follows Valentine Roncalli, a spirited 33-year-old navigating love, family, and the challenge of saving her family’s century-old shoe business. Set in the bustling streets of New York’s Greenwich Village and the picturesque hills of Italy, it’s a story brimming with humor, heart, and cultural richness.
With its blend of family saga and self-discovery, the Valentine Trilogy captures readers who crave stories that balance tradition with modern ambition. Let’s explore how this beloved series came to life, its core stories, and why it continues to resonate with fans.
How the Valentine Trilogy Began
Adriana Trigiani, a bestselling Italian-American author, drew inspiration from her heritage and love for storytelling to create the Valentine Trilogy. Known for her vivid depictions of family and culture, Trigiani launched the series with Very Valentine in 2009, introducing readers to Valentine Roncalli and her family’s Angelini Shoe Company. Her goal was to craft a modern romance that celebrated craftsmanship, Italian roots, and the complexities of family bonds, all while showcasing her signature humor and warmth.
Trigiani’s background in playwriting and screenwriting shines through, giving the series a cinematic quality. Her deep connection to Italian-American communities and her knack for blending humor with poignant moments shaped the trilogy into a fan favorite, appealing to readers who love immersive, character-driven stories.
The Heart of the Valentine Trilogy
The trilogy comprises three books: Very Valentine (2009), Brava, Valentine (2010), and The Supreme Macaroni Company (2013). In Very Valentine, Valentine Roncalli, an apprentice to her grandmother Teodora, fights to save the struggling Angelini Shoe Company. While juggling a budding romance with chef Roman Falconi and a high-stakes design challenge, she travels to Italy, uncovering family secrets and her artistic voice. Brava, Valentine sees Valentine facing new business challenges and family drama, particularly with her brother Alfred, as she navigates love and ambition in Tuscany. The Supreme Macaroni Company culminates with Valentine’s marriage to tanner Gianluca Vechiarelli, exploring the tensions between her career and family life amid unexpected twists.
The series’ themes revolve around self-discovery, the balance between tradition and modernity, and the power of family. Valentine’s passion for shoemaking serves as a metaphor for crafting her identity, while the vivid settings of New York and Italy act as characters themselves, steeped in sensory details like the scent of leather or the taste of homemade pasta. Trigiani’s lyrical prose and humor make the trilogy a delightful blend of romance, comedy, and drama, perfect for fans of Eat, Pray, Love or Under the Tuscan Sun.
The interplay of Italian-American culture and modern ambition sets the series apart. Valentine’s journey reflects the universal struggle to honor one’s roots while carving a personal path, making her relatable to readers from all backgrounds.
Why the Valentine Trilogy Resonates
The Valentine Trilogy has carved a niche in contemporary romance, celebrated for its rich cultural tapestry and relatable heroine. Fans praise Trigiani’s ability to bring Italian-American life to vivid life, from boisterous family dinners to the meticulous art of shoemaking. The series’ exploration of love—not just romantic but familial and self-love—strikes a chord with readers seeking heartfelt stories.
Its lasting appeal lies in its universal themes and Trigiani’s storytelling prowess. Adapted into a Lifetime movie, Very Valentine introduced the series to new audiences, cementing its cultural impact. For readers who cherish stories of resilience and heritage, the trilogy remains a timeless gem.
- Publication Years: 2009–2013
- Number of Books: 3
- Genres: Contemporary Romance, Family Saga
- Notable Recognition: Very Valentine was a New York Times bestseller
Dive into Very Valentine and let the Valentine Trilogy sweep you from Manhattan’s cobblestone streets to Italy’s sun-kissed hills. It’s a romance-soaked journey you won’t forget!