Chapter 32: The Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie and a Scooter Ride
⚠️ Spoiler Warning: This guide contains detailed spoilers for the entire novel. Proceed only if you've finished reading or are comfortable knowing the plot.
Summary
Danny takes Grace on a tour of Varenna, culminating at the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, a small sanctuary dedicated to important Catholic women. After praying briefly, Grace asks to meet Danny’s cat as a pretext to see his home. They ride his scooter up into the hills to his cottage overlooking Lake Como. On the deck, Danny admits he has been alone for a long time and that meeting Grace made him break his usual pattern of temporary connections. The moment grows tender when Danny’s cat, Mitz, spontaneously jumps onto Grace’s lap—something the cat never does. Danny kisses Grace’s fingers, and the romantic tension is unmistakable, though Grace holds back her boldest impulses.
Key Events
- Danny leads Grace to the Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, explaining it honors important Catholic women such as Saint Teresa d’Ávila and Saint Gertrude.
- Grace sits briefly in the church and prays using a classic United Church of Christ prayer.
- After leaving the church, Grace asks to meet Danny’s cat, knowing it will invite her to his home.
- Danny rides a scooter with Grace holding onto him as they travel winding roads into the hills.
- They arrive at Danny’s white stucco cottage with a view of Lake Como.
- Danny’s cat Mitz appears but avoids petting, then later settles on Grace’s lap—an unusual occurrence.
- Danny confesses he has been alone for a long time and that Grace is the first person he has pursued beyond a brief encounter.
- The chapter ends with Danny lightly kissing Grace’s fingers.
Character Development
Grace steps outside her cautious, minister persona by inventing an excuse to visit Danny’s home. She internally imagines boldly saying “Take me inside,” but restrains herself. Her vulnerability emerges as she admits she is both thrilled and scared of ruining the moment. Danny reveals a deeper side, moving from a charming tour guide to a man who fears losing Grace. His admission that he usually never sees guests again shows his willingness to change for her. Both characters take emotional risks.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
- Spiritual and Romantic Parallels: Grace’s silent prayer in a church dedicated to women of grace contrasts with her later romantic impulse. The setting suggests that divine and human love can coexist.
- Symbolism of the Cat: Mitz’s unexpected leap into Grace’s lap serves as a “sign” of acceptance and trust. Danny interprets it as something good, mirroring the budding trust between him and Grace.
- Journey Motif: The scooter ride up into the hills symbolizes Grace leaving her comfort zone, both physically and emotionally.
Why This Chapter Matters
This chapter deepens the romantic thread between Grace and Danny, moving from flirtation to sincere emotional risk. It showcases Grace’s internal conflict between her proper, helpful exterior and her desire for passion. Danny’s vulnerability balances the dynamic, making their relationship feel earned. The scene also reinforces the novel’s exploration of how travel can prompt personal growth.
Study Questions and Answers
1. Why does Grace ask to meet Danny’s cat? Grace uses the cat as an excuse to receive an invitation to his house. She admits internally that her request is both brash and a lie, revealing her desire to spend more private time with Danny.
2. What does Danny reveal about his past relationships? Danny explains that his job involves charming people for a few hours and never seeing them again, which suited his preference for temporary connections. Meeting Grace made him feel that “this can’t be the end,” so he took a risk by inviting her further.
3. How does the chapter use the setting of the church to develop Grace’s character? The Church of Santa Maria delle Grazie, dedicated to important Catholic women, prompts Grace to pray and reflect. It shows that even away from her congregation, she remains connected to her faith. The church’s holy atmosphere contrasts with her subsequent romantic scheming, highlighting her multifaceted personality.