The Vernazza Effect
A Story about friendships, dreams, heartbreaks, and miracles
Vernazza, Italy is a gem nearly hidden from the rest of the world. I fell in love with the village when I stayed there in 2007 for three glorious days with my best friend, Debbi. That experience inspired this novel. To order a copy, click here.
The Plot
Twenty-nine-year-old Ella Walker strives to live her best life. When tragedy strikes at both work and home, her world spirals out of control. She confides in her best friend, Tara Collins, who helps her confront her fears. With Tara by her side, Ella embarks on a cathartic journey across Italy to heal her body and soul. The odyssey leads to Vernazza, one of five seaside villages in the Cinque Terre. The enchanting hamlet provides the refuge and tranquility Ella needs to gain clarity about her future. As she awakens to her heart’s desire, fate intervenes with several cruel twists, threatening to upend her happiness. Will Ella cling to her old ways, or will she fight for her dreams that were born in Vernazza?
Reviews
Readers' Favorite - The Vernazza Effect is a wonderfully descriptive and emotive novel about love, loss, and the uncertainties of life. In Ella, author Roberta R. Carr has created the perfect mix of a determined young woman also infused with uncertainty about herself, her place in the world, and her purpose. As a reader, I am a sucker for a sweet love story, especially one that takes some overcoming obstacles and personal issues to achieve, and this story fits the bill perfectly. As a bonus, the author gives us a vivid description and vision of the beauty of the little villages along the Italian Riviera. One could almost taste the succulent food and delicious wine of an Italian summer. Her prose is evocative and appealing, and the story is well capable of being read in one sitting in front of the fire on a cold winter's day. -Grant Leishman
Readers' Favorite - Author Roberta R. Carr delivers a heart-wrenching journey of hope, moving forward, and the strength we all have inside us. One of my favorite things about this novel is how uplifting and positive the message was despite the darker aspects of the tale. Carr gives beautiful and vivid descriptions of the countries and locations in the book, which will leave you wishing you were there with Ella, and I also felt Carr managed the intimate scenes well, making them evocative without them ever feeling too graphic. The Vernazza Effect follows protagonist Ella as she moves forward from a tragic situation and finds love again. The characters are all fully fleshed out and feel like real people with real stories, which causes you to invest in them and their journeys, feeling everything they feel throughout the novel. I would highly recommend The Vernazza Effect to anyone who enjoys fiction based on reality and a story that will move you. -KC Finn
Readers' Favorite - Author Roberta R. Carr delivers a heart-wrenching journey of hope, moving forward, and the strength we all have inside us. One of my favorite things about this novel is how uplifting and positive the message was despite the darker aspects of the tale. Carr gives beautiful and vivid descriptions of the countries and locations in the book, which will leave you wishing you were there with Ella, and I also felt Carr managed the intimate scenes well, making them evocative without them ever feeling too graphic. The Vernazza Effect follows protagonist Ella as she moves forward from a tragic situation and finds love again. The characters are all fully fleshed out and feel like real people with real stories, which causes you to invest in them and their journeys, feeling everything they feel throughout the novel. I would highly recommend The Vernazza Effect to anyone who enjoys fiction based on reality and a story that will move you. -KC Finn
The Book Commentary - Roberta R. Carr writes intelligently about destiny and one woman's unforgettable journey towards embracing herself and creating her life's purpose. Ella and Tara are characters that readers will feel as though they lived next door because they are realistic and deeply human. The author has the uncanny ability to make readers feel the emotions of the characters and the ache in Ella's heart is unmistakably strong and it rubs off on readers, making them care about her and what becomes of her. The twisty plot makes the story an engaging one and the deft handling of themes of adventure, self-care, purpose, and meaning help to enhance the sense of realism that is already vividly communicated in this mesmerizing tale. The internal conflict is depicted in well-crafted internal dialogues and streams of consciousness. This story features superior storytelling, sparkling dialogues, and beguiling prose. While The Vernazza Effect is a character-driven tale, it features an enchanting, vividly drawn setting and a plot that is unpredictable. -David Reyes
Rosie Amber, Book Reviewer - This is a revised version of this story and after reading a selection of reviews I know that this new version is a winner. The writing flowed so well that it swept me up into the delightful descriptions of people and places. The Italian scenes were particularly picturesque. The story doesn’t end in Italy, for Ella must return home and face reality and it comes to her in several hard-hitting ways which I’m not going to mention and spoil for other readers. I really enjoyed being part of Ella’s journey as the author made me feel part of the story in just the right way to escape from my own world. I read this in a couple of sittings and it was one of those books that I could have carried on reading into the small hours. Highly recommended. -Rosie Amber
My inspirational journey to Italy
Cinque Terre
My friend, Lydia Tuveson, visited the Cinque Terre. She left a copy of The Vernazza Effect in the hotel's library. I love having the novel out in the world, wondering where it may end up. She also sent some tantalizing food pictures from a cooking class she attended. Don't her pictures make you want to jump on a plane headed for Italy?
Book Signings
When my friend, Cori Crismon from the HHDW Book Club in Los Alamitos asked me to join her group to discuss The Vernazza Effect, I hopped on a jet and headed south. Hearing comments about my novel was insightful, lunch was delicious and the women welcomed me with open arms. These ladies read books together, but they've also have helped each other along life's journey for ten years. It was a privilege to be part of their private world for one amazing afternoon.
CJ hosted a book club discussion at her beautiful home in Santa Rosa. Thank you ladies for reading my novel and for sharing your feedback. As I drove home, I reflected on our conversations. What I enjoyed most was hearing how everyone filled their days. Whether it was managing a 40-acre ranch, building a new life following a divorce, joining a writing group to pen a memoir or signing a new contract for work, each of us is following our dreams. Thank you for a lovely evening, and a big shout-out to CJ for hosting the enjoyable affair.
My good friends Margie and Beejay hosted a book signing party to celebrate The Vernazza Effect. This picture was taken in Margie and Larry’s beautiful backyard in Bel Marin Keys. What an evening! Wonderful conversations, friends catching up, great munchies and Jean Luc’s wine. After we moved into the house for a book discussion, I felt such gratitude as I glanced at the sea of faces. A woman I didn’t know asked what my novel was about and, instead of answering her, I asked people in the room who had read the book to respond. Listening to other people interpret my work touched me at a deep level.
The Native Americans say that a story stalks a writer, and if it finds you worthy, it comes to live in your heart. The author’s responsibility is to give that story a voice. Ella’s story stalked me and, after tonight’s discussion, I felt worthy to have given it a voice. In 2005, as Andy and I left Southern California to make our home in Novato, neither of us knew what to expect. We still never take for granted our luck at landing in such a special place surrounded by gracious people and indescribable beauty.
A woman I met at a Writer’s Conference wrote this about The Vernazza Effect. “In the end, our human desire for deep connection and the healing power of love provide the story’s real center.” Tonight I felt that deep connection with my family and friends, and I thank Margie and Beejay for giving me such a heartfelt evening.
The Native Americans say that a story stalks a writer, and if it finds you worthy, it comes to live in your heart. The author’s responsibility is to give that story a voice. Ella’s story stalked me and, after tonight’s discussion, I felt worthy to have given it a voice. In 2005, as Andy and I left Southern California to make our home in Novato, neither of us knew what to expect. We still never take for granted our luck at landing in such a special place surrounded by gracious people and indescribable beauty.
A woman I met at a Writer’s Conference wrote this about The Vernazza Effect. “In the end, our human desire for deep connection and the healing power of love provide the story’s real center.” Tonight I felt that deep connection with my family and friends, and I thank Margie and Beejay for giving me such a heartfelt evening.
What a fun afternoon! I was the guest speaker at the Margaret Todd Senior Center's monthly luncheon. My friend, Deb, joined me on stage. She is the gifted artist that created the beautiful watercolor painting that was used for The Vernazza Effect's cover. I gave a 20-minute presentation about my writing process, then answered a few questions and signed some books. As a bonus, my wonderful neighbors Colleen and Sandy attended the luncheon so I'd have some familiar faces in the audience. Am I a lucky girl or what?
Debbi and Rick hosted a book signing party at their home. Deb prepared perfect antipasti: crackers, cheese, meats, artichoke dip and olives, and at least eight bottles of Italian beverages sat next to a full ice bucket. A video from our 2007 Italy spa vacation played silently on their TV while candles flickered all around the house. Debbi displayed pictures from our times together: weddings, cheerleader days, travel adventures, class reunions. Rick won an argument and picked up the pizza himself instead of having it delivered. Personally, I think he needed a quiet moment.
The Kightlinger home soon filled with an eclectic bunch of guests: a few folks from one of Debbi’s book clubs, her mom, daughter and granddaughter, Rick’s mom and sister, fellow teachers from Bell Gardens High School and some of Debbi and Rick’s closest friends. Debbi’s mother, Barbara, was like a second mom to me while growing up, so it was especially nice to spend time with her. During the book discussion, guests asked thoughtful questions about my novel and writing process. After everyone left, Debbi and I shared a few quiet minutes before I headed upstairs to sleep. I'm so grateful for her friendship and for this enjoyable evening!
Thank you Orange County Book Club! Debbi, Monika, Charlotte, Teri, Pam, Kristi, Irmagaard and Georgia. It was a pleasure meeting you ladies! I savored your energy, questions, laughter, stories and especially enjoyed the enlightening book discussion. Your unique humor, personal stories, and polka dance rounded out a perfect evening. Thanks for welcoming me into your circle, and a big shout-out to Debbi for preparing a beautiful table filled with homemade lasagna, salad, grilled asparagus, gelato and all the wine we wanted. Until next time (get ready for Alexander).
Kaiser Book Club - My friend Cheryl hosted a party at her beautiful hillside home in Whittier. This was really a Kaiser Permanente reunion, and we had a fun walk down memory lane.
Kay guided so many careers, mine included, and she’s still our glue. Roxie’s smile warmed the room, and Bob and I kidded each like we’ve done for over 30 years. Cheryl T. co-wrote an amazing book with her husband, and it was fun comparing notes and sharing tidbits about the writing process. Connie was a secretary when we first met, now she’s the director of the plastic surgery department. Therese and I were partners in crime for many KP projects, and what a special treat it was to meet, Lauren.
I remember when Cheryl’s mom, Mary, drove her motorhome to the Member Services office so Cheryl could feed her baby. Now Kathryn is 30, and a second-generation KP employee. Cheryl’s daughter, Kristen, is an administrator at a high school, and the proud mother of two lovely daughters. I so enjoyed talking with them, marveling at what beautiful women they have become. Where did time go?
Family Book Club - My daughter, Kim hosted a book discussion party at her home in Anaheim. Thank you Gaye, Camille, Jenny, Rob, Cyndi, Debbi, & Katie for your support.
When Kim was the academic dean at Westwood College, she arranged for me to meet with students as a guest author. I spoke to four different groups over two days. I was impressed by their dedication to improve their lives, and they asked such thoughtful questions. The Vernazza Effect encourages readers to follow their dreams, and this audience was a living example. My favorite part was at the end of each session where Kim and I revealed our relationship, and shared insights about our journey as mother and daughter. We had a mutual admiration thing going on!
Novato Book Club - Thanks to Rita for asking me to attend her book club to discuss my novel, The Vernazza Effect. I enjoyed making some new friends! Talking about Vernazza with others who had traveled to that magical village, triggered a nice trip down memory lane.
A big shout out to Lynne for hosting the gathering at her beautiful home, and for providing gelato and other Italian delicacies to munch on.
I appreciate their support!
Teachers' Book Club - Meeting fun-loving, dedicated teachers + good discussions about life + yummy Italian food = one fabulous evening!
Thanks for inviting me to your book club to discuss The Vernazza Effect. I hope you ladies keep meeting for the next ten years!
Orange County Book Club - My friend Debbi Kightlinger joined her third book club and chose The Vernazza Effect as the book of the month. She outdid herself by serving an Italian feast including homemade pasta sauce. She told me that Ella's courage and strength inspired the readers. Thanks for the support, ladies!
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Why two editions?
I first published The Vernazza Effect (my debut novel) in 2013, using the cover on the left. In 2021, I published a second edition with the cover on the right. I’ve learned so much about writing the past eight years and wanted to incorporate new elements into the story. Readers of the first edition will find significant changes including deleted, new, and revised scenes, more descriptive writing, and more of Ella’s internal thoughts.
What hasn’t changed is the book’s central theme about finding meaning in life. Each of us has gifts to share with the world. What are yours? How are you living your dream? What’s holding you back?
What hasn’t changed is the book’s central theme about finding meaning in life. Each of us has gifts to share with the world. What are yours? How are you living your dream? What’s holding you back?
