Nicoletta Romanoff, an acclaimed Italian actress known for her talent and her rich personal history, has recently released her first novel, "Come il tralcio alla vite," which hit the shelves on May 6, 2025. The book, published by Rizzoli, offers an unfiltered glimpse into her life, intertwining her experiences with faith, joy, and profound pain.
Born into a lineage that traces back to the Russian Tsars, Romanoff has built a successful career in cinema and television while balancing her personal life. Since 2019, she has been married to Federico Alverà, a figure who, while not often in the public eye, plays a crucial role in her life. Alverà, a former rugby player and now the manager and coach of U.S. Primavera Rugby, is described by Romanoff as "my rock, the bringer of peace, the one who loves me the most on the days when I need it most." This relationship, which began in 2014, has brought stability to her life after years marked by intense romantic entanglements.
The couple welcomed their daughter, Anna, in 2018, making her the fourth child for Romanoff, who has children from three different relationships. Reflecting on her motherhood journey, she stated, "I had my first child at 19 and my last at 38. Each age brings its own privileges and burdens." Her experiences as a mother have been deeply enriching, yet they have also been punctuated by significant personal tragedies.
At the tender age of 18, Romanoff faced the devastating loss of her older brother, Enzo Manfredi, who died by suicide at 21. This tragic event has left an indelible mark on her life, compelling her to seek solace in her faith. "I found my peace in the journey of faith. I talk to God every day," she shared in various interviews. The death of her father, Giuseppe Consolo, a prominent penal lawyer and parliamentarian, further compounded her grief, yet she has emerged resilient.
In her new book, Romanoff delves into her emotional landscape, recounting both her struggles and triumphs. The title, "Come il tralcio alla vite," translates to "Like the Branch to the Vine," and signifies her journey of remaining steadfast in her faith despite life's trials. "The right moment arrived at the right time, sorry for the play on words. It has been 28 years by chance, though I don't believe in chance," she remarked, reflecting on the serendipitous nature of her writing journey. She explained that the book's release coincides with significant dates, such as the anniversary of the Virgin Mary's appearance at Fatima and the assassination attempt on Pope John Paul II.
Romanoff's narrative is not just a recounting of events but an intimate exploration of her relationship with God, her family, and herself. "I always write in a rush, I write and don’t re-read. This applies to all my letters," she noted, emphasizing her raw and honest approach to storytelling. The book's foreword is penned by renowned author Erri De Luca, adding an extra layer of literary credibility to her work.
Despite the passage of time, the pain of losing her brother remains fresh. Romanoff has spoken candidly about how his death took a part of her, a wound that she has learned to live with rather than fully overcome. "There are pains that are impossible to surpass and forget," she stated, highlighting the ongoing impact of her brother’s loss on her life.
Through her writing, Romanoff aims to convey the message that joy can triumph over sorrow. "The joys always outweigh the pains," she asserted, encapsulating her philosophy of life. This sentiment resonates throughout her novel, as she navigates the complexities of human emotions and relationships.
As a mother of four, Romanoff reflects on her experiences with each child, noting how her perspective on motherhood has evolved. "With my first two children, I was more reckless. Anxiety came later. The first motherhood was more instinctive; I didn't ask myself many questions, but now I do much more. And I also feel more guilt. Life is unpredictable," she expressed, revealing her growth and deeper understanding of the challenges of parenthood.
Her marriage to Alverà has provided a sense of balance and serenity, allowing her to embrace both her artistic career and her family life. Romanoff describes their relationship as one characterized by complicity, respect, and a profound understanding of each other. She openly celebrates their bond while maintaining a degree of privacy about their daily lives.
As the release of her novel approaches, fans and readers alike are eager to dive into Romanoff's world, where joy and pain coexist, and where faith serves as a guiding light. Her story is one of resilience, love, and the unwavering pursuit of happiness amidst life's challenges.
In a world that often seems divided by personal struggles, Nicoletta Romanoff's journey offers a reminder of the power of faith and the importance of cherishing the moments of joy that life brings. With her new book, she invites readers to walk alongside her on a path filled with both heartache and hope, proving that even in the darkest times, there can be light.
