Review of All Roads Lead to Rome by Sabrina Fedel
When I first stumbled upon All Roads Lead to Rome, I was immediately captivated—not just by the quaint title evoking the beauty of Italy, but by the promise of a modern love story wrapped in the charm of Rome. Author Sabrina Fedel has created a gem that goes far beyond the typical romance, seamlessly blending heartfelt emotion with a sharp critique of society’s pitfalls. As a devoted lover of romantic escapades, I knew I had to dive in.
At the heart of this delightful tale is Astoria "Story" Herriot, a high schooler navigating the complexities of being an outsider in the exclusive world of diplomatic offspring. When chance leads her to cross paths with the enigmatic Scottish celebrity, Luca Kinnaird, the narrative unfolds into a captivating fake-dating scenario that spirals into something much more significant. From the moment they share a gelato in the midst of chaos—camera flashes, swirling gossip—I was hooked.
One of the strongest themes in All Roads Lead to Rome is the exploration of societal expectations and the pressures of public life. Despite the glamour of celebrity, Fedel doesn’t shy away from exposing the dark underbelly of fame: the addiction, the social media scrutiny, and the emotional toll it can take. Story and Luca’s journey together is not just about falling in love; it’s about growing, healing, and ultimately confronting their own demons. As someone who has often felt like an outsider, I deeply resonated with Story’s struggles and triumphs.
Fedel’s writing style is a balanced mix of lyrical descriptions and sharp dialogue, making each scene feel alive. The vivid depictions of Rome—its bustling streets, vibrant marketplaces, and calming fountains—transported me right there alongside Story and Luca. I could practically hear the Vespas buzzing by and smell the inviting aroma of Italian cuisine. The pacing is beautifully done; the story flows like a well-placed gondola ride on the Tiber, smoothly gliding through thrilling moments and quieter, reflective ones.
What struck me most were the relationships in the story. The slow-blooming connection between Story and Luca is portrayed so authentically that it had me “aww-ing” more times than I could count! Their banter sparkles with chemistry and wit, while their underlying struggles are relatable and painful. I couldn’t help but root for them, even as they faced the weight of their respective worlds.
To my fellow romance enthusiasts longing for something fresh: this book isn’t just another tale on the shelves; it’s a heartfelt narrative that demands to be read, cherished, and celebrated. If you’re someone who adores stories with depth, meaningful critiques, and a touch of humor wrapped in romance, then this book should be at the top of your must-read list. It’s not just a novel—it’s an adventure that will spark a desire to explore both the beauty of Rome and the complexity of human connection.
In conclusion, All Roads Lead to Rome is a heartfelt journey that left me yearning for more. It’s an exploration of love’s challenges and triumphs, beautifully set against a backdrop rich in history and culture. Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Children’s/Delacorte Press for this wonderful digital adventure. I eagerly await Sabrina Fedel’s next work, as I’ve already marked her as one of my auto-approved authors!
Happy reading, and may you find your own winding road to love!