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. ( )

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! ( )

It is a cheesy love story with bad character building. Girl is being arrested by this rude, unreasonable Italian police and all she can think about is his muscles and eyes? Really even when her luggage is opened and underwear all over the place? Also what is wrong with Marco? I can't think of any straight man who would greet his cousin while complimenting the man she is talking: - who is this sweet piece of ..., hmmmm hmm... No really?

It was a short and easy read so it got 2 stars. ( )

A quick but very cute read. I'd love to see what happens to this character in a continuing novel but for now I loved this short story and would love to read more from this author. ( )