The Venice Hotel

Set against the enchanting backdrop of Venice during the twelve magical days of Christmas, The Venice Hotel by acclaimed Australian author Tess Woods is a deliciously twisty novel perfect for fans of Nine Perfect Strangers and The White Lotus.

When the lives of four very different women converge at the boutique Hotel Il Cuore, dark secrets begin to unravel, and not everyone who checks in will check out. Each woman faces personal crises that force them to confront their deepest fears and desires, turning their stay into a transformative experience.

Meet Signora Loretta Bianchi, the world-renowned cook at Venice's Hotel Il Cuore. Loretta finds herself torn between a once-in-a-lifetime passion and her loyal husband. Will she choose forbidden love or the comfort of a long-term marriage?

Sophie, a food writer on assignment in Venice, initially seeks only Signora Bianchi's secret recipes. However, she soon discovers much more to love in the city—and in the charming but secretive Rocco. What mysteries is he hiding behind his captivating smile?

Elena, a recent law graduate, is sinking just like the endangered city she's called home. Returning to Venice, she is determined to escape her stifling marriage, regardless of the cost. How far will she go to gain her freedom?

Finally, there's Gayle, a grandmother whose dream holiday in Venice takes a sinister turn. Rather than a peaceful respite, she finds herself embroiled in a life-or-death situation, where the stakes couldn’t be higher.

Against the picturesque and hauntingly romantic alleys of Venice, The Venice Hotel examines the powerful bonds that emerge between women in times of crisis. It beautifully illustrates the healing power of female connections and explores themes of love, loyalty, and liberation.

"I completely fell in love with the women of the Venice Hotel." - Nicola Moriarty

"A love letter to a gorgeous city, crafted with such rich detail, I felt I knew every character to the core." - Melina Marchetta

"The perfect combination of juicy drama and heartrending emotion." - Rachael Johns