Barry's Book Reviews: "Brava, Valentine" by Adriana Trigiani

FOUR STARS: Adriana Trigiani's "Brava, Valentine: A Novel (Valentine Trilogy, Book 2)" is another great book from my favorite Italian-American contemporary author.  The portraits of "real" characters are undoubtedly patterned after people in her life.   The love of family was well portrayed.  The elements of surprise in the storyline was also welcomed.  The love story was touching. Adriana can weave a great story.  At times some of the family dialogue was a bit boring but always reprieved by elements of the story and careful painting of the imagery. The color indigo is a favorite and perhaps once less description with it could have sufficed. Despite these little irritations the story was fun, engaging and a great read.