La Bella Vita

by Vida Adamoli

Southern Italy 1968. The ancient village of Torre Saracena, a huddle of shuttered houses and sunbaked streets, perches on a rocky promontory above the sea. For centuries this insular community has closed its ranks against everyone outside its walls; even the inhabitants of the nearest town are classified as foreigners. After marrying her Italian boyfriend Lorenzo at 18, Vida and her family share their time between the bustle of Rome and the tranquility of Torre Saracena. Despite initial misgivings from the locals, they are soon accepted into the community and spend twenty years living la bella vita with the villagers and hippy eccentrics who become their trusted friends. From feuding and festivals, through to topless riots and brushes with the Neapolitan Mafia, life in Torre Saracena is high drama on a small stage.

Paperback

First published March 1, 2005

Reviews

[Ietrio · Rating 5 out of 5]

A refreshing read. Nothing fancy, yet for a train trip is just perfect. Amusing too.