The Italian Daughter

The Lost Daughters, Book 1

By: Soraya Lane

Narrated by: Zoe Mills

“Estee, I bought this ring the day after I saw you on stage at La Scala, all those years ago. You’re the only woman I’ve ever loved.” Estee wanted to see it so badly, but instead she reached for Felix’s hand and gently closed it over the box. “No,” she whispered. “I want you to propose only when you’re truly free.”

When Lily is called to a lawyer’s office in London, she has no idea that her life is about to change forever. There, she is told that her grandmother was born at Hope House, a home for unmarried mothers, and is given a box containing the only clues to her true heritage. Peeling back the delicate layers of paper she finds an Italian recipe and a theatre program.

Travelling to Italy and taking a job on a vineyard, Lily is determined to unravel the mystery of her past. The vineyard owners, in particular their charming son Antonio, offer to help. They tell Lily that the recipe belongs to the wealthy Rossi family, known for their famous bakeries that opened after the Second World War. Antonio offers to drive Lily to the Rossis' village and deep down, Lily is delighted to have him as her guide.

When Lily arrives and shows the recipe to the surviving members of the family, it is clear that she has unearthed a tragic love story: of a young girl named Estee and a boy named Felix. Of a childhood friendship that developed into a passionate love affair. Of a family torn apart by wealth and of two young people who were prepared to sacrifice everything for love.

But when Lily finds out the truth about her family and who she really is, will she too be able to follow her heart?

An utterly enchanting and heartbreaking novel about lost loves, family secrets, and enduring hope. Perfect for fans of Lucinda Riley, Santa Montefiore, and Victoria Hislop.

©2022 Soraya Lane (P)2022 Bookouture, an imprint of Storyfire Ltd.

Amazing story.!

Soraya Lane never disappoints. I love all of her books. But this one had me captivated and I loved it. Such a beautiful story. I never wanted it to end! A must read/ listen! I can’t wait for the next book!

Predictable Format but entertaining listen

I enjoyed this book, especially the descriptions of Italy, the food and the wine. I have read all of Lucinda Riley’s seven sisters books. I will say that once you have read a few of them, as soon as the characters are introduced, you can pretty much tell what’s going to happen in the books. I feel the same way about Soraya Lane‘s books in the daughter series. Her books written later seem to be a direct Copycat of Lucinda Riley‘s idea. The are enjoyable and easy reads, but you won’t find yourself wondering what happens!

Outstanding

I loved 🥰 this story. It was compelling, well written with intrigue and looking forward to the next book

Loved it

Well told story of mystery Romance and love. Could not help but feel deeply for the characters depicted.
Truly, enjoyable

Enjoyable Read

I found myself caring more about the book as it went on. Part of it for me was the narrator. But also the feelings and thoughts of the young Estee were a bit unbelievable for me. 12 year olds of that time did not think like that. But once she grew into young womanhood I became more engaged. The balance of the generational stories was terrific.