Good morning, bookpups๐พ The book we have for you today, The Casanova Papers by Kate Zarrelli, is a modern romance with a historical twist. Two teachers in Venice recreate the adventures of Casanova while creating their own love story.
QOTD: Do you like historical fiction?
I never used to enjoy historical fiction but since I started blogging back in 2017, I’ve been introduced to a few authors and time periods (Regency Romances, Highland Romances) and am finding that I really enjoy them.

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๐พMany thanks to the author, Kate Zarrelli, and Rachel’s Random Resources for my complimentary copy. This in no way influenced my review.๐พ
It took me a while to really get into this book. In the beginning, it almost seemed like everything was a little too over the top. Every time Ellie thought of something, Piero magically did, said, or bought it. The first couple of times, it was cute. Then a little annoying. I was looking for a romance, not a character who was a magical mind-reader.
Thankfully, as the book progressed, I was able to fall down the rabbit hole, as Crystal is fond of saying ๐ I liked that, although they were following Casanova’s path, they stayed true to each other. It morphed into a beautiful love story, romantic and including a few extravagant twists and turns along the way (some more extravagant than others).
That cover design, though …
You guys know me. You know I’m a picky cover reviewer. And this one, unfortunately just didn’t do it for me. I wasn’t a fan of the font, the white blurred edges, or just how busy it all is. But, of course, these are my own personal preferences.

The ending caught me by surprise more than anything else in this book. This new plot arc that was introduced halfway through the novella really blew up at the end and I wasn’t expecting any of it. I think this is one I would have liked to see expanded into a full novel, as I feel like things were just a little rushed. But, such is novella-life.
All-in-all, this is a very enjoyable read.
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13 Comments
Iโm sorry it wasnโt perfect, but am glad it worked for you overall. Excellent photos!
Not perfect, but one I’m glad I read anyway ๐ And thank you for the compliment on the photos. I struggled the most with this book, as I wasn’t fond of the cover.
Glad you enjoyed it despite the hiccups.
Me too ๐
I love historical fiction especially WWI and WW II. Sorry this one did not add up for you.
I agree, that cover seems bland, but I’m glad you stuck with it and enjoyed it overall. Your posts are always so fun
So glad you like them ๐ And what can I say … I’m very picky about covers.
Great review. I’m very picky about types of historical fiction I read. I don’t do romance. I agree with you about the cover.
Romance is my main genre but there were times this one just fell flat or seemed a little too coincidental. Thanks for your comment ๐
I am picky about historical fiction books and glad that you liked it.
This one wasn’t historical fiction. They focused a lot on Casanova, though the book itself was present-tense. There were issues I had with The Casanova Papers but, all-in-all, it was an enjoyable read.
sounds interesting and i do love historical fiction.
I love historical fiction, but have not heard of this book or author.