I liked this story set in Venice. It's well told, the characters are fleshed out, and the plot is compelling.
T.A. Williams is my favorite writer of rom coms set in Italy and never fails to write entertaining and well plotted story.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for this ARC, all opinions are mine

A wonderful story that instantly captured me and made me eager to keep turning the pages. I loved meeting Jane and joining her as she embarked on a new job in Italy far away from her demons.

Veronica is a lovely character that you warm to quickly as her story starts to unfold and her family starts to come into the picture.

Set against a gorgeous sunny backdrop in scenic Italy, filled with gorgeous descriptions that make the scenery come to life. A story that will warm your heart and make you want to keep reading

Thank you NetGalley and @trevorwilliams for letting me review this book and being part of this tour. The font cover is beautiful and made me want to go there, its bright and colourful which draws you to buy the book. The story is set in Venice and the descriptions of the book where amazing and you can really visualise Venice in your head. i found the characters developed through the book. Chance in a million is easy read and you connect with the characters straight the way . The story about Jane and David and they both have bern through there own ups and down can they heal and be togther

I first read a book by T.A. Williams back in March, when I really enjoyed An Escape To Remember. I was quite surprised to find a male author writing a romance novel, but he proved himself with that wonderful book and quickly jumped into the list of authors I will always try to read. Having spoke to him on social media too, he is a thoroughly lovely man. So I was thrilled to be able to read his latest novel – A Chance in a Million.
The prologue throws you straight into the action. It begins in Fallujah, Iraq with Captain Jane Reed dealing with an unexploded bomb. Chapter One continues to follow Jane’s story after she has left the army. She is twenty-nine years old and following a change in careers, she is applying for a job as Personal Assistant to successful author Lady Veronica Cooper, who is in her sixties. After being offered the job, she discovers it entails a move to Italy.
I was interested in the story and the characters straight away. Venice was beautifully described, it felt just like I was there (and I’ve never been). It is obvious that Jane and Veronica are alike in some ways, despite being employer and employee and decades apart in age. Both women are suffering and experiencing a great change in their lives. Jane has left the army, while Veronica is finding it impossible to write anymore, following the death of her husband two years before. As a reader, you feel immediate sympathy for both of them.
The palazzo they live in is beautiful and the wardrobe of classic dresses is somewhere I’d love to see as well! The setting feels really authentic and although often glamorous, it doesn’t feel out of touch, as it does to me in some novels. Here, you feel you are experiencing everything through the characters.
In the summer months, they escape the Venetian heat by an annual move to the country estate where David (Veronica’s son) lives with his grandmother Flora, who’s a sprightly 95 years old. David is intriguing, hiding secrets and damaged by war like Jane. The characters in the novel are so deeply layered, you find out more about them as the book goes on and their stories are revealed, which I really enjoyed. Other characters I really liked are Maria the housekeeper, who I felt would be a really good friend, and her husband Alvise. Special mention to Dino the Labrador. I always love a good animal in a book and Dino is gorgeous!
T.A. Williams continues to be an author I will look out for and hope to read everything he writes. He is a great writer of stories and particularly believable characters you root for.

I cannot tell you how pleased I am, to be given the opportunity to review the latest book from the fantastic TA Williams.

How could I not immediately warm to Jane, especially after we are given a glimpse of her previous life and all that she has been through and all that she has lost.

I loved Truffaldino – in fact I think I would struggle to read a TA Wiliams novel without the ubiquitous gorgeous black Labrador; always a welcome character. As for Veronica Leonard – she initially seemed a little prickly, but I felt sure she would appear more mellow, given time. I felt that if anyone could help her overcome the brewing depression since the death of her Husband, it would be Jane.

I loved the descriptions of Venice and of the estate in the hills – at times I almost felt as though I were there. The descriptions of the Italian food were simply divine and actually made my mouth water! As for the charity auction – I found myself enchanted by the whole occasion. Jane’s dress sounded out of this world, and her meeting debonair Paolo kind of ‘put the cream on the cake’ of the whole evening. Paolo seemed genuine – charm personified – and he joined Veronica’s Son David on my personal list of possible suitors for Jane. Indeed I found myself inordinately pleased to see that Jane’s summer estate accommodation was near to where David resided! Jane had experienced such a rough time of life in recent years, with her army work and the loss of her partner, that I found myself genuinely caring about what happened to her. I wanted her to live her best life and be happy – and if that meant finding herself in the arms of a charming suitor, all the better! There were hints at some kind of mysterious history between Veronica and Paolo, and I must confess to having my interest piqued at this snippet. Furthermore I did wonder as to whether there was some kind of history between Paolo and David?

I suspected that Veronica had fallen into some kind of depression after the death of her husband, but I felt that Jane was a real tonic for her in terms of her mental health, and she rapidly seemed to be helping to ease some of Veronica’s inner torment, helping her to enjoy life again. Perchance she would even start to write again at some stage, should Jane keep up her good work. It felt ironic – that Jane too had lost someone to whom she had been so close, so the two women were suffering similarly and it could actually be more that the two women were helping each other to overcome their grief, perhaps without even realising what they were doing for each other. David too didn’t sound like the happiest soul – and my curiosity was sparked as to the reason for his dark mood. When Jane actually met David, he was somewhat unkempt; not a man who seemed to care about how he looked! There also seemed to be some kind of intrigue as to why he had come out of the armed forces. There most definitely seemed to be some kind of spark developing between David and Jane – and in Jane’s words ‘What was the trouble with ‘poor David’ and why did she find herself thinking about him so often’? One thing for certain was that I loved the way that Jane could tell whether or not David was smiling, merely by looking at his eyes. My heart did sink for poor Jane when it looked as though David might be offering to come hiking with her – when in actual fact, he was offering Dino’s services! Y

Veronica’s Mother-in-law was a wonderful, sparkling character, as far removed from the stereotypical 95 year old as you could get! She seemed to defy her years, and I suspected she would be tremendous fun to be around.

Diana, Veronica’s Daughter was beautiful and charismatic – like a breath of fresh air, and I couldn’t help but be mesmerised by her. I sincerely hoped that Jane might find a good friend in her. Beatrice, Veronica’s other Daughter was equally delightful, although she had clearly been having some issues and was a little more reserved than her Sister.

I felt as though the simmering relationship between David and Jane, was gradually blossoming throughout the book; there was no doubting at all that Jane enjoyed being with him; close to him – even if David was a little more backwards in coming forwards when it came to demonstrating affection. However it definitely seemed augDavid was holding something back.

The cover of this book promised me ‘feel-good’ and I am delighted to confirm that this is exactly how I felt after reading this astonishing, uplifting book. We started off with a tangle of depression, sprouting into something new, better and exciting. The wave of relationships throughout was overwhelming, yet beautiful. A wonderful story of sad, damaged minds coming together, helping each other, creating something beautiful. An unforgettable story.

A lovely story of recovering from grief and trauma through kindred spirits., Jane mostly recovered from a traumatic incident in her military career but is still haunted by losing the man she loved. Working for a famous troubled author in enigmatic Venice seems an excellent way to move forward with her life. I love the characters in this sensitively written story. Many have suffered a significant loss and found their life in tatters. The relationships between Jane and the author, her family and most notably, the author's son are authentic and poignant. Vibrant Venice and the vivid retreat in the hills draw the reader into Jane's new world and make you invest in the characters. The romance is gentle and secondary to this very readable story's friendships and healing bonds. A delightful read,

I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

I've been lucky enough to read all the books in this series, but this one has something special in its characters that makes them utterly relatable. Jane, Veronica, and David are coping with loss, mental illness, or significant life changes. Sometimes all three. Through Jane's new job as Veronica's personal assistant, this change of scenery might be just what Jane has needed in her life, which has become stagnant since leaving the military.

When reading a book by Williams, you can expect richly detailed scenery. Throughout this series, I've wanted nothing more than to travel to the places he describes. Now in Venice and the surrounding countryside, it would be nice for this family to invite me over for a visit. The characters are multi-dimensional; they're real, flawed, and often hurting. This book focuses on the power of friendship, of helping each other heal and move on, and yes, there's some romance as well. It's a well-rounded mashup that gives you a warm feeling while reading.

Happy publication day to T. A. Williams, who brings us another charming instalment in his ‘Love from Italy’ series.

While A Chance in a Million, is a lovely, romantic story, it also deals sensitively with physical and emotional trauma and how devastating events can cause people to hide away. It also shows how the power of friendship, companionship and love can begin the healing process.

I’m a confirmed fan of T. A. Williams’ books, as they sweet and romantic which is just the ticket in and uncertain world but, alongside the romantic storylines, there is always superb detail about the locations and the history of the area – this really helps absorb the reader into the sights, sounds and smells of the story.

As I said, in this story in particular, the storyline around emotional and physical trauma in some of the main characters is very sensitively handled and, although the situation begins to resolve for these characters, it is clear that it is by no means easy and I felt that when we leave the characters, they are in a better place but with further to go.

The beautiful setting of Venice and the surrounding areas is of particular note in this book and, despite the prospect of hoards of tourists, it will have you wanting to visit!

Highly recommended all round this time, and keep an eye on the blog next month as I will be reviewing the next T. A. Williams book – a departure from his usual style of romance!

T. A. Williams never disappoints. I know I'm in good hands when I begin one of his books. His latest book features the trademark black Labrador. I loved Dino, I always love the dogs. They're characters in themselves. I loved the setting of Venice and the islands and the surrounding countryside. As for Jane's character, I really liked her. The romance was gentle and well-written. With thanks to NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

T.A. Williams’ books are the definition of feel-good, uplifting stories. It doesn’t matter that the underlying theme is a deeper one like in this case, you can’t help but have a big smile on your face while reading. That’s in part thanks to really relatable, down to earth characters that, while struggling with the outside world or even themselves, you just have the need to support and wish for everything to go their way.

Jane was in the Army until tragedy hit her life. Now, two years later, she’s moving to Venice to work as PA to a famous author. There, she’ll discover she has more in common with her employer than she thought, learning to heal her wounds and to leave the past behind.

I loved how every single character in the story was basically a good person (not usual). Several of these characters are broken souls, grieving and stuck in a moment from their past that’s not letting them move forward. I loved how they helped each other to get out of that situation despite their reluctance.

Jane was immediately likeable. We learn right from the start why she’s so guarded with others. It was great that was not an annoying secret referred to time and time again. It was beautiful to see how the Italian air made such a change in her.

The love story was a bit slow moving but I liked how she respected his wishes, not forcing him to do anything he was not ready for, although it was a bit frustrating at times his insistence to keep silent about his past (talk, people, talk! And stop assuming what others might think).

If you’ve read some of the author’s books you’ve already come to expect a gorgeous Labrador in the story, and A Chance In A Million is not an exception. Truffaldino, Dino for friends, was such a joy to read about. I love how the author always managed to make the dog a key character in the story.

But human characters were awesome too, with a really well rounded cast of lovable characters, which you’ll care and worry about no matter how important to the story they are.

The love of Italy impregnates every single page, and the detailed descriptions will make you feel as if you’re in there, dodging tourists during hot, humid August in Venice, or running around the Italian hills along Jane, David and Dino.

Another lovely story from the master of romance. The next book I’m reading from him is a cozy mystery and I’m so curious to see how the genre change goes.

Thanks to NetGalley and Canelo for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review and to Rachel’s Random Resources for my spot on the Blog Tour.

This book was mostly excellent. There was great character and story development. You got background on Jane and David, but also some on Veronica, Beatrice, Diane, etc. Any book set in Italy already wins me over, and the description of the multiple homes was wonderfully descriptive. There was so much build up between Jane and David, and the reader got a good idea of both of their worries. But the ending felt very rushed. They didn’t talk about their feeling for each other very much with each other. It was mostly Jane’s inner thoughts or her discussing her potential feelings for David with everyone else. But suddenly, without any sort of lead up, she and David declare their love to each other. Disappointed to have such an abrupt ending after a very detailed story otherwise.

I've read a few books by TA Williams now, but I think A Chance In A Million is my favourite. I'm usually a reader of much more dark fiction, but occasionally I switch to the lighter side, and for TA Williams, it is always a pleasure to do so. However, there are some darker themes in this novel which I think made it appeal to my even more.

A Chance In A Million is set between Padua and Venice and I love the way that the author transports us to Italy with his words. I could picture the beautiful surroundings in which Veronica and her family lived, I could taste the food they were eating and l could feel the Italian summer sun beating down on me.

The protagonist in this story is Jane, who arrives in Padua after a very challenging time in her life. I found her story very poignant and I really hoped that she could find happiness in her employment with Lady Veronica Cooper. I loved her connection with David and I hoped they could help each other. But the hero and heroine are surrounded by a wonderful supporting cast and I felt completely at home with the family almost straight away. The labrador, Truffaldino, also deserves a special mention!

I can't wait to see where TA Williams takes me next time!

Having never been to Italy, it’s always a treat to read about it. It’s even better when a book takes me to Venice. A Chance in a Million gave me the best of both worlds with Venice and the surrounding hills. Once again, I am planning to get there, one day.
Captain Jane Reed is immediately likeable. The opening pages of the book give us a glimpse of why she left the army, but it takes slightly longer for the reader to understand the full horror of her experience. Determined to discover a new focus in life, she accepts a job which is based in Venice, where she will be both a companion and support to celebrated author, Lady Veronica Cooper. Expecting to find an escape in Italy, she soon discovers that she has more in common with the author than she originally assumed. Having lost her husband, she has now lost her writing mojo.
As the busy summer months descend, the story moves to the hills that surround Venice, and Lady Veronica’s summer residence. Here, Jane meets the rest of the family including former soldier, and Veronica’s son, David who has withdrawn from life.
There’s a lot to unpack with this story and I can honestly say that I thoroughly enjoyed working my way through the layers and discovering more about the complex characters and their histories. One of the many joys with this author is his ability to create strong characters who have endured personal challenges yet continued on despite the weight of their memories.
As I have come to expect, each character is developed to the point of being able to picture them and feeling the loss of their company as the book drew to a close. Of course, there is a Labrador, but you will need to read about him when you embark on this wonderful story.
The subject matter may have included darker than usual elements which could have made this a difficult read, but I genuinely felt the positivity leaping from the pages, and I instinctively knew that there would be a joyful, uplifting conclusion.
The nod to Hollywood glamour was perfectly handled and I could only imagine having access to such beautiful garments. The idea of owning such a wardrobe is the stuff of fantasy along with my hopes of exploring the Italy about which TA Williams writes so beautifully.

"A Chance in a Million" is a romance set in Italy, but is also a story of people coming to terms with grief and trauma. When Jane accepts a job as PA for a famous author she has no idea quite how much her life will change. She falls in love with Italy and gradually gets accepted by her employer's family. This is a privileged world into which she has been plunged so the privations are more mental than physical. Enjoyable, escapist nonsense.

Thanks to Net Galley and the publishers for the opportunity to review this book.

Jane and David meet when she starts working for his mum. He is hard to get to know but the have both been injured in their military service so understand each other more than most. Can she convince him they can be more than friends?
I loved the setting, it makes me want to book a trip to Italy

🌞Hazy, lazy days of a Veneto summer🌄

I was looking forward to another T.A. Williams novel to take me arm chair traveling to Europe and this one did not disappoint. It gave me a taste of Venice and the neighboring islands of Murano, San Michele and Burano, while focusing on a summer break in the nearby countryside. The scenes in the city and on the islands of the lagoon took me back to my own trips to unique, historic Venice and the rural retreat was a perfect setting for three sad people to heal and some romance to blossom.

This is an easy read, not too heavy despite the military backgrounds of the lead couple and their emotional and physical scars. Good food and drink, friendly family and acquaintances, a friendly Labrador and a Teddy-loving moppet add a warm atmosphere for the slow-build, sweet romance.

I enjoyed it.

Thanks to Canelo and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.

Quite a sweet easy going type of book, I spent an enjoyable weekend reading it. Nothing super exciting happens, it just rolls along at a gentle pace but does touch on some sensitive issues like PTSD which I felt were handled well. The descriptions of Venice were wonderful and makes me want to visit! Thank you to Netgalley for an advanced copy x

🌟🌟🌟🌟

A sweet and sensitive story, centering on grief, and isolation, and terrible loss, - and that elusive chance in a million - that unimaginable happening, encounter or person, that finds a way to slip into a life awash and stagnant, and just like that, opens the door on a new beginning.

When Jane Reed, a former Captain in the UK Army, who is struggling with PTSD and the horrors of a personal injury and a related death, accepts a new position as the PA of a famous author, it feels to her as if her life has run out of options. Desperate to escape the heaviness of her existence, as Jane joins her new boss, Lady Veronica Cooper, in her palazzo in sunny Venice, it seems the change in scenery alone may signal the start of a welcome release.

Veronica, dealing with her own loss, is both a distraction and a compassionate opportunity for Jane, who (broken herself) finds great satisfaction in helping some-one else find support and healing. A process that, just as magically as it unfolds for Veronica new hope and opportunity, appears to spark the same allure for Jane, who may or may have found a future in the bright and mesmerizing eyes (not to mention the fever inspired by his mixed signals) emanating from Veronica’s son David.

Without giving the plot away (no spoilers here), as Veronica and David’s navigate their pasts and untangle the secrets, pain and trauma holding each of them hostage, (aided by an adorable black Labrador and the incredible beauty, food, wine and majesty of a Venetian countryside) it would be impossible not to leave this story charmed and touched - and perhaps more than a little in love with L’Italia.

A great big thank you to #NetGalley, the author and the publisher for an ARC of this book. All thoughts presented are my own.

Kicking off with a scene which set up Jane's character really well, but was utterly exhilarating and terrifying too, the story then settles down into a really lovely story set between Venice and the Italian countryside.

Jane is recuperating herself and her new boss Lady Veronica Cooper is still grieving the loss of her husband from 2 years previous. Add in her son who also appears to be hiding something and trying to see if he can move on with his life and you have a group of broken characters trying to put themselves back together.

There are some really wonderful characters, I especially took to Flora, Veronica's mother in law, who is 95 and acts significantly younger. And little Linda, Veronica's granddaughter is a tonic and a joy to be around.

Then there is Dino, which is T.A. Williams trademark black lab and easily a favourite character, he is fabulous, and I could picture him so so clearly.

And I really enjoyed the descriptions of Venice in the summer. I felt as though I was there alongside Jane, in the heat, and the little streets that you can easily get lost in.

It's another enjoyable story from an author I automatically always want to read, it's not a new favourite, I just failed to connect to it on some level (and I have no idea why) - but it is still incredibly good and I had a massive grin on my face at the ending which really was just perfect.

Thank you to Canelo and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.

I just adore this author.

Perfect escapism.

Engaging storyline.

Romance to make you swoon.

What's not to love.

If you're looking for books with guaranteed happy endings, look no further.

Another highly recommended tale.