Nicole’s story of love and loss begins in Rome over a cappuccino and cornetto as she rues her unhappy marriage to an older widower. The conversational meeting with her Italian tutor sets off a chain of events that upends the course of her life. While Rome also brings deep friendships and immersion into a sumptuous food scene there is no escape from acknowledging the consequences of her actions. In search of forgiveness and healing, she moves to an island near her childhood home in Seattle only to find the way to reunite the remnants of her family and discover her true path is to return to Rome and face the past.

“A compelling exploration of personal growth, resilience, and the complexities of human relationships…The vivid descriptions of Rome and Seattle add depth to the story, immersing readers in Nicole’s world…An engaging read that will resonate with anyone who has sought their own path”
–Kirkus Reviews

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With middle age looming, Judith Works decided it was time for a change. But after graduating from law school at age forty-seven, she still faced the question: “What now?” Casual conversations about far-off travels with husband Glenn became a reality with the offer of a dream job at the United Nations in Rome, Italy.

Coins in the Fountain brings to life the challenges of aclimating to the beautiful and chaotic ancient city of Rome. Judith shares her struggles to learn the arcane rules and folkways of the UN while Glenn begins his valiant effort to cook Italian-style, as they both endeavor to embrace la dolce vita. With an extraordinary count and countess for friends, dogs inthe doctor’s office, snakes and unexploded bombs on the golf course, along with a sinking sailboat rocking on the ocean, the unexpected was always just around the corner.

Through wit, wry humor, and descriptions of enticing food and travel, Judith takes you on a journey into the heart of what it is truly ike to live in the Eternal City.

According to Roman lore, if you toss a coin over your shoulder into the famous Trevi Fountain, the gods will grant you a return trip. When it was time for them to leave, Judith made that hopeful toss and her wish was granted.