Meadow Taylor

Review of eBook

This is a difficult time for Olivia Moretti, her first Christmas since her father’s death. But the promise of a short-term project . . . and a trip to Venice . . . seems perfect, especially since her cousin, Marco, plans to spend Christmas there with her before her temporary job begins in January.

Only now the uber-handsome Alessandro Rossi, a Venice policeman, has detained her in the Marco Polo Airport. Marco is nowhere to be found and Olivia has no idea what could possibly be concerning about her suitcase.

Only it does seem to be ticking . . . .

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This very short story serves as a prequel to the author's “Midnight in Venice” and introduces readers to Olivia and Alessandro. Although the title conjures up thoughts of romantic scenes throughout Venice, the entire story takes place inside Venice’s Marco Polo Airport with just enough character development to encourage readers to continue reading their story in the book that follows.

Set during the Christmas season, the plot . . . a mix-up/misunderstanding between police and a traveler . . . results in an unexpectedly humorous denouement as it hints at a continuing relationship between Olivia and Alessandro. Nevertheless, readers are likely to find this feel-good tale leaves them with a smile for the season . . . and for the possibilities.

Recommended.… (más)

"Love comes like that—unexpectedly. You can’t search for it. It comes when it pleases, whether you’re ready or not."

"Christmas in Venice" is a charming contemporary romance introducing the couple to become a romantic duo, and at times, the humor during the setting of their introduction is hilarious. I loved the short story of Olivia Moretti meeting Venice Police Officer Alessandro Rossi on her arrival at the Marco Polo Airport in Venice. Chemistry was in the air, and sparks were flying even though neither was ready to acknowledge it. As they bid farewell, Alessandro had tucked his business card inside her passport.

"Midnight in Venice" repeats the short story as Chapter 1 and continues forward. Olivia didn't think she would call Alessandro, but she couldn't discard the business card either. Thankfully, on a rainy night, they were each surprised by literally bumping into each other at a local bar as Alessandro was leaving and Olivia was entering.

I loved the full-length novel even more than the introductory short story. Venice, Italy, captures the imagination as a city of romance at any time of year, but to picture it as the author describes it with twinkling lights and extravagance welcoming Olivia to enjoy her new job and as an introduction to Alessandro's family is magical. Add the intrigue of the mystery that, although easy to solve, was nonetheless suspenseful because of the plot twist before the reveal that I didn't foresee. The plot twist also elevated the writing beyond the usual contemporary romance. Well done!

I look forward to reading more of this author's writing.… (más)

I was about to select "Midnight in Venice" as my next book to read and then discovered that the short story "Christmas in Venice" is

"adapted from the first chapter of Meadow Taylor's newest full-length novel."

Particularly, as Meadow Taylor is a new author to me, I didn't want to miss the short story, and I'm so glad I made the discovery. It's cute!

Imagine stepping off the plane in the Marco Polo airport, and suddenly the officer in charge is calling you a terrorist. Olivia Moretti can hardly believe Venice Police Officer Alessandro Rossi's accusation, regardless of how handsome he is or how complimentary of the perfection of her speaking Italian. Is it possible she'll spend Christmas in an Italian prison instead of spending the holiday with her cousin and enjoying his plans?

Sparks are flying from the opening moments of their meeting, and the outcome of his accusation is hysterical. I'll read "Midnight in Venice" very soon! The short story was a great introduction to Meadow Taylor's writing. I hope you'll try it too!… (más)