Those Blue Tuscan Skies

by Marion Ueckermann

  “What’s a Ferris wheel, Mamma?” Rosannah asked, her eyes narrowed.

  “It’s a very big wheel with seats that you sit in, and it moves around, lifting you high in the sky.” Rose circled her arm to show the wheel’s rotation. “You can see far over the city from the top.”

  A blank stare from her daughter echoed her action.

  “You get them at funfairs.”

  A shrug.

  Rose turned to Joseph as they strolled toward the lavender. “Has she been anywhere out of this valley, besides possibly Venice?”

  A giggle rose from between them. “Pappa took me to Rome once. And Milano. And to the mountains in Swist— Swizerl—” She blew out a huff and scrunched her nose.

  “Switzerland,” Rose helped. “The Alps?”

  “Yes, there.” Innocent brown eyes blinked at her. “We went on a short holiday to Cinque Terre, too.”

  “Cinque Terre?”

  Joseph stopped walking. His eyes widened. “You’ve never visited Cinque Terre? In all the years you lived in Italy?”

  Rose shook her head. “Until you came along, I hadn’t seen much more than Florence. One or two weekends in Venice with friends. I was studying, remember.”

  He nodded. “Well, Cinque Terre is the most beautiful string of centuries-old villages built along the rugged Italian Riviera coastline. Green vineyards and colorful houses cling to the steep cliffs while far below, fishing boats bob on the blue waters of the towns’ harbors. And the seafood specialties served at the trattorias…” Joseph licked his lips. “To die for.”

  “Sounds like heaven. You’ll have to take me there some day.”

  Joseph leaned closer to Rose as Rosannah skipped away between the lavender bushes, plucking long purple heads as she went along. “How about our honeymoon?”

  He definitely wasn’t going to give up. Perhaps she should admit defeat now. Hadn’t they already lost too many years? The thought of designing her own dress, walking down the aisle in it, filled Rose with anticipation.

  She stared across the field, watching Rosannah like a mother hen. “What is the weather like around March?” She ventured a sideway peek at Joseph, eager to see his reaction.

  A smile stretched across his face. “It’s rather cool, but I know the perfect way to keep you warm.”

  She turned to him, heat rising to her cheeks at his thoughts. But they were about to start planning a wedding for the not-too-distant future, so could it be wrong to ask him how?

  Before she could verbalize her question, Joseph pulled her into his arms.

  “First we start with the embrace. Bodies always give the best heat.”

  Her heart thudded against her ribs. “Oh…”

  “So March? Next year?”

  She nodded, not trusting herself to speak.

  He pursed his lips for a moment. “Okay. I can wait. Nine months isn’t that long.”

  Long enough to make a baby.

  “Beginning of March though, right? Not the middle or the end?” His eyes questioned her, too.

  Mercy. “Uh-huh…”

  He bent forward and whispered in her ear, his breath warm. “After the embrace we do something like this.” He placed a kiss on her neck. “So, England or Italy?”

  Her breath hitched. “I–I’ve always dreamed of a small, intimate wedding. A tiny Italian chapel somewhere.”

  “Italy. Good. We won’t have to drive far then to that honeymoon spot where I need to keep you warm.” His hand cupped her cheek before trailing away into her hair, sweeping the long strands behind her ear. He applied pressure to the back of her head and closed the distance between their lips. “Finally, we do this.”

  His mouth claimed hers, and Rose responded with as much eagerness. From now on she would enjoy every single Italian kiss she could get from this amazing man.

  A giggle skipped to their ears from the lavender fields. “They’re kissing. Mamma and Pappa are kissing. Urrà!”

  That’s Amore (That’s Love)

  A Tuscan Legacy

  Book 1

  When Rafaele and Jayne meet again two years after dancing the night away together in Tuscany, is it a matter of fate or of faith?

  After deciding to take a six-month sabbatical, Italian lawyer Rafaele Rossi moves from Florence back to Villa Rossi in the middle of Tuscany, resigned to managing the family farm for his aging nonna after his father’s passing. Convinced a family get-together is what Nonna needs to lift her spirits, he plans an eightieth birthday party for her, making sure his siblings and cousins attend.

  The Keswick jewelry store where Jayne Austin has worked for seven years closes its doors. Jayne takes her generous severance pay and heads off to Italy—Tuscany to be precise. Choosing to leave her fate in God’s hands, she prays she’ll miraculously bump into the handsome best man she’d danced the night away with at a friend’s Tuscan wedding two years ago. She hasn’t been able to forget those smoldering brown eyes and that rich Italian accent.

  Jayne’s prayers are answered swiftly and in the most unexpected way. Before she knows what’s happening, she’s a guest not only at Isabella Rossi’s birthday party, but at Villa Rossi too.

  When Rafaele receives what appears to be a valuable painting from an unknown benefactor, he’s reminded that he doesn’t want to lose Jayne again. After what he’s done to drive her from the villa, though, what kind of a commitment will it take for her to stay?

  Copyright

  THAT’S AMORE

  That’s Love

  A Tuscan Legacy ~ Book 1

  © 2018 by Marion Clair Ueckermann

  This book is a work of fiction set in a real location. Any reference to historical or contemporary figures, places, or events, whether fictional or actual, is a fictional representation. Any resemblance to actual persons living or dead is entirely coincidental.

  All rights reserved. No part of this book may be used or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission of the author except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical articles or reviews.

  eBook editions are licensed for your personal enjoyment only. eBooks may not be re-sold, copied or given away to other people. If you would like to share an eBook edition, please purchase an additional copy for each person you share it with.

  Contact Information: marion.ueckermann@gmail.com

  Scripture taken from Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV® Copyright ©1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

  Cover Art by Marion Ueckermann: www.marionueckermann.net

  Edited by Paula Grundy: https://paulaproofreader.wixsite.com/home

  Cover Image Background ID 92602052 Adobe Stock © Photocreo Bednarek

  Cover Image Sunflower ID 54536334 Adobe Stock © Miroslawa Drozdowski

  Cover Image Man ID 121170524 Adobe Stock © Kiuikson

  Cover Image Woman ID 107110117 Adobe Stock © Mirma

  Scene Breaker Sunflower ID 76249464 Adobe Stock © Cobalt

  Dear Reader

  Do you often find yourself wondering why things happen,

  or don’t happen, the way they do?

  Wondering if you should take a certain path,

  or a different one?

  In times like these, you can rest in the knowledge

  that God is omniscient and omnipresent—

  He knows everything, understands everything, perceives everything.

  He’s in your past, your present, and your future.

  He knows how every tiny part of your life will work out.

  And best of all, He has your best interests at heart.

  Because He loves you with an everlasting love.

  So when next you’re feeling anxious about the future,

  or about a decision you need to make,

  rest in the knowledge that God has your back.

  He will guide you and show you the way.

  Never forget that God knows the end,

  and that is all that matter
s.

  Be blessed,

  Praise for That’s Amore

  That’s Amore is the best way to travel to beautiful Italy if you don’t have the budget to really go there. Marion knows her craft and easily transports the reader to gorgeous Tuscany. Adding to the enchanting locale is a story rich in Italian family values, secrets, and of course, amore. You won't want to come home.

  ~ Paula Grundy, Editor

  In That’s Amore, Marion Ueckermann takes the romance reader on a delightful journey showcasing the lush land of Tuscany. In this compelling read, suave Rafaele Rossi romances Jayne Austin (how’s that for a name?), amongst a colorful family harboring secrets. With love sizzling in the pizza-scented air, this novel was one I thoroughly enjoyed from start to finish.

  ~ Jan Elder, Author of the Moose Creek series

  That’s Amore by Marion Ueckermann is a delightful contemporary Christian romance. It is the first book in the A Tuscan Legacy series—a nine book multi-author series which has started so full of promise. With wonderful descriptive passages, the Tuscan countryside really comes to life in glorious 3D. I could “see” the landscape and almost “feel” the heat.

  Once again Marion Ueckermann has drawn fully rounded and likable characters that weave their way into the readers’ hearts. A big fan of all Marion Ueckermann’s books, I was delighted to see some familiar faces. It felt like I was catching up with old friends.

  That’s Amore is wrapped up with satisfaction for the reader with a feel-good ending to leave you smiling.

  ~ Julia Wilson, Book Reviewer at Christian Bookaholic

  That’s Amore is a tale of romance, family dynamics, heritage, and a mystery. With her usual flair for setting, Marion Ueckermann dances this novella through the Tuscan countryside and brings it to a satisfactory close, but with questions still left unanswered. I closed this book feeling as if I had been on a wonderful holiday and met a fascinating family. Waiting for A Tuscan Legacy Book 2 will test my patience.

  ~ Judith Robl, JR’s Red Quill Editing, Author of As Grandma Says

  A well-crafted Italian love story with a romantic Tuscan setting, diverse characters, and mysterious paintings. Just like a firefly is a light shining in the darkness, Rafaele finds God’s and Jayne’s love in the darkness. That’s Amore!

  ~ Renate Pennington, Retired English, Journalism, Creative Writing High School Teacher

  At one point, running the family farm was the last thing Rafaele wanted to do. Mainly because his father wished it. But things change when you least expect it. Something Jayne knows all too well as she sets off for Tuscany in the hope of finding someone she met once a couple of years ago.

  That’s Amore is set in Tuscany, in the very heart of the Rossi family. Setting the scene for the whole series, it nonetheless centers firmly on Rafaele and Jayne as they find the road to love is sometimes paved with potholes.

  ~ Clare Revell, Author of the Flowers Can Be Fatal series

  This book made me feel that I had personally visited the beautiful Tuscan Valley, tasted the delicious food, and learned some of the language. Well-developed and intriguing characters who struggle with guilt, mistakes that rob them of their joy as well as their loved ones, and the emptiness of missing a father’s love and involvement in their lives.

  That’s Amore is the perfect start to this series, with a mystery that will make the reader anxious to read the next book and discover more.

  LOVED this book!

  ~ Becky Smith

  Once again Marion Ueckermann transports the reader—Italy this time—and has you feeling like you are there. That’s Amore is a combination of a wonderful love story, family conflict and drama, and the beautiful story of God’s forgiveness and second chances. It is another one from this author I wholeheartedly recommend. I will certainly be looking forward to the second book in the Series.

  ~ Ann Lacy Ellison

  “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” is the ongoing theme throughout this well-crafted story.

  Isabella, her grandchildren, and their stories will be shown in this nine-book series.

  I loved the romance of Rafaele and Jayne, the twists and turns of the story that won’t be resolved until the end of the series, against the backdrop of Tuscany.

  ~ Linda Rainey

  Marion has captured in this beautifully written story the true beauty and love of what I’ve always imagined Italy would be. Falling in love in Tuscany, Rafaele and Jayne’s story will captivate your senses! With blooms of spring, love in the air, Tuscany awaits you with a story like no other.

  ~ Sharon Dean

  A delightful story set in the romantic hills of Tuscany. A little bit of love at first sight with some intrigue and mystery thrown in for good measure, this was an enchanting story and I can’t wait to read the rest of the series!

  ~ Joelle Teague

  Travel to wine country in Tuscan Italy where you’ll learn there are more secrets to fine wine than just age. A truly fine wine takes a village or in this case a family with the richest ingredients: forgiveness, love, laughter, and truth.

  Jayne is looking for love. Can she trust GOD to bring it all together for her or will she take matters into her own hands?

  Rafaele is trying his best to help his beloved Nonna, will her secrets tear things apart or reunite the family?

  Marion weaves these all together like a fine wine in this charming story of Jayne and Rafaele. I just love to travel with Marion Ueckermann because I know wherever she goes there will be adventure, laughter, and love. That’s Amore.

  ~ Renette Steele

  Dedication

  To my family ~

  You make life worth living!

  Glossary

  English:

  Sunny-side up : (of an egg) fried without breaking the yolk or being turned over, with the yolk remaining visible and somewhat liquid inside

  French:

  Brioche : A light, sweet bun or roll made with eggs, yeast, and butter

  Derrière : The buttocks; rump

  Faux pas : a slip or blunder in etiquette, manners, or conduct

  Italian:

  Amarena : Amarena cherries are small, bitter, dark-colored Italian cherries grown in Bologna and Modena, and usually bottled in syrup to be used as a decoration on rich chocolate desserts

  Amore : Love

  Amore mio: My love

  Arancia : Orange

  Arrivederci : Goodbye

  Autostrada : Highway

  Bella : Beautiful

  Bella signora : Pretty lady

  Bellissima : Beautiful (female gender)

  Bellissimo : Beautiful (male gender / noun)

  Bene : Good

  Biscotti : Italian almond biscuits

  Buon compleanno : Happy birthday

  Buonanotte : Good night

  Buonanotte amore mio. Dormi bene : Good night, my love. Sleep well.

  Buonasera : Good evening

  Buongiorno : Good morning

  Buonissima : Very good

  Caffè : Coffee

  Capisci : Do you understand?

  Cara mia : My darling

  Ciao : Hello; hi [Informal]; Goodbye

  Ciabatta : An Italian white bread

  Cioccolato fondente : Rich, dark chocolate

  Consegna : Delivery

  Cornetto : A cornetto, meaning "little horn," is an Italian variation of the Austrian kipferl and the French croissant. It differs from a croissant in being softer and containing less butter.

  Dolce : Dessert

  E : And

  Elfo : Elf

  Espresso : Coffee brewed by expressing, or forcing out, a small amount of nearly boiling water under pressure through finely ground coffee beans

  Famiglia : Family

  Fette biscottate : Rusks

  Firenze : Florence, the capital city of the Italian region of Tuscany

  Fondente : Fondant—a thick, creamy sugar p
aste, the basis of many candies

  Gelato : Italian cookery—a rich ice cream, made with eggs and usually containing a relatively low percentage of butterfat

  Grazie : Thank you

  Grazie mille : Thank you so much

  Idiota : Idiot

  I miei preziosi nipoti : My precious grandchildren

  I Quattro Menestrelli : The Four Minstrels

  Italiani : Italians

  Lavanda : Lavender

  Limone : Lemon

  Limoni : Lemons

  Mammà : Mother

  Mamma mia : An Italian expression denoting various kinds of emotions: surprise, fear, rejection, joy

  Metro : Meter

  Minuti : Minutes

  Mia bellissima nipotina : My beautiful granddaughter

  Mia sorella : My sister

  Mi fai il solletico : That tickles

  Milano : Milan, capital of the Lombardy region in Northern Italy

  Mio bambino : My child/baby

  Mio fratello : My brother

  Mi scusi : Sorry (used when you want to show respect or when you don’t know someone well, especially when the person is older than you but not only)

  Molto bella : Very beautiful

  Non lo so : I don’t know

  Nonna : Grandmother

  Nonno : Grandfather

  Papà : Dad

  Perdono : Pardon

  Per favore : Please

  Pesce d’Aprile : April Fools’ Day—literally “April fish” because kids walk around sticking paper fish to the backs of their friends and teachers