An Italian Girl in Brooklyn: A spellbinding story of buried secrets and new beginnings

In Santa Montefiore's novel, set in war-torn Italy and New York, Evelina leads a sheltered life in 1934 with her family, but when she meets Ezra, her heart recognizes romantic love. However, the shadows of war are darkening over Europe, and precious lives are under threat.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 384 pages
Publication date: 27 April 2023
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Ltd

In her captivating novel set in war-torn Italy and the bustling streets of New York, Santa Montefiore delves into the depths of dark secrets and hidden sorrows. The story unfolds during Thanksgiving in 1979, where Evelina, a woman of Italian descent who has lived in America for over thirty years, gathers her close family and beloved friends. Her heart is filled with gratitude for the blessings in her life and regret for the sacrifices she has made. Despite her American upbringing, Evelina remains deeply rooted in her Italian heritage.

In 1934, Evelina leads a sheltered life with her parents and siblings in a villa of fading grandeur in Northern Italy. When her elder sister Benedetta marries a banker, Evelina vows to never marry out of duty, as her father desires. She is unaware of the concept of romantic love, but when she meets Ezra, the son of the local dressmaker, her heart recognizes it as an old friend. Evelina cherishes these carefree days, longing to bask in the sunshine, beauty, and love without concerning herself with the impending darkness that looms over Europe. However, as the shadows of war darken over Europe, the lives of precious individuals are under threat.

Santa Montefiore is renowned for her exceptional ability to craft epic romance, and her novel is no exception. With vivid descriptions and intricate characterizations, she transports readers to the heart of Italy and New York, immersing them in the lives of Evelina and her loved ones. The story explores themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience, as Evelina navigates the challenges of war and the complexities of her own emotions.

As the novel reaches its climax, Evelina must confront the harsh realities of her past and the sacrifices she has made. She must also decide whether to follow her heart or adhere to her family's expectations. The ending is bittersweet, leaving readers with a sense of hope and closure as Evelina finds her way forward, embracing the beauty of life and the power of love.

In conclusion, Santa Montefiore's novel is a captivating exploration of the human experience, set against the backdrop of war-torn Italy and the bustling streets of New York. With her exceptional storytelling and vivid prose, she brings to life the characters and their struggles, leaving readers with a lasting impression of the power of love and resilience in the face of adversity.

Weight: 278g
Dimension: 129 x 198 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781471197109