The Road to Moresco

by Mark Jamilkowski

At the turn of the 20th century, Maria-Luisa Moresco was not like most Italian women of her time. She was driven to achieve her professional aspirations when others looked for a happy and healthy family and a peaceful environment to call home. But when multiple tragedies struck – earthquakes and storms, unexpected deaths, World War II, broken relationships, even murders – she, and later her daughter Chiara, were forced to find a way forward despite their irreplaceable losses. Against the backdrop of a Europe in constant turmoil, their survival instincts, persistence, and resilience became their path forward. Discover more about these astounding, complicated, talented women in The Road to Moresco.

Compelling historical fiction for fans of books like

“The Nightingale” -K Hannah
“All the Light We Cannot See” -A Doerr
“The Book Thief” -M Zusak

Kristin Harmel’s "The Paris Daughter"
Devorah Shafrir Keret’s "My Grandmother’s Shadow"

229 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 31, 2023

About the author

My first novel, The Road to Moresco, explores the dramatic events and emotional upheaval of Maria-Luisa Moresco and her daughter, Chiara as they persevered in the world events of the 1900's. This was a personal story, a work of passion, a work deeply emotional and vulnerable for me to write. Most of the book is true to the events and lives of these real-world women, cobbled together from interviews and recorded historical events. The fiction part is in wending it all together as I imagined it did. In the end I found myself humbled, inspired, awed, and grateful.

I have been blessed with the support and encouragement of friends and family to turn my research of my story of origin into The Road to Moresco, and the critics seemed to agree, with many 5 star reviews and being named a Golden Book selection by Literary Titan.

Mask of Romulus is my second historical fiction novel. Building on the critical acclaim received for "Moresco," I endeavored once again to bring "emotional depth, historical insight and a rhythmic narrative that resonates with intellectual rigor and vulnerability." Critics have noted a tonal kinship in my novels with others such as The Remains of the Day and A Hidden Life, and will also appeal to fans of Conn Iggulden, Robert Graves, or Mary Beard.

My stories tend to evoke profound emotional atmosphere supported with philosophical depth and historical detail. When I find time to write, I am committed to crafting narratives that explore new creative terrain that inspire readers to rediscover the hidden courage shaping history. I enjoy exploring themes of ambition, resilience, political oppression and personal growth.

I am a resident of New York City, a father and husband, with personal passions that inform and shape my literary style, including music, photography, cooking, and games of strategy.

Reviews

[Jane · Rating 4 out of 5]

Entertaining family saga, set against the background of world events, from early 20th century until present day, concentrating on two courageous and independent women, mother and daughter, the pianist Maria-Luisa and her daughter Chiara/Clara. I liked the author starting off with a thumbnail history of Italy. The story took us from Italy, to Poland, to Germany, then the U.S. Why was Arsenio not mentioned in the family tree? After all, he and Clara were married for 37 years. I thought his wisdom valuable and helped keep the volatile Clara on an even keel. And Mark--why was he only a question mark on the family tree? I thank LibraryThing for sending me a copy.

[Mary Yarde · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Russian soldiers put guns to the foreheads of both Chiara and Maria-Luisa. Max was forced to prove his musical profession by an audition. Chiara watched, frozen, sniffling, unable to cry anymore at this point, the smell of gunpowder from the muzzle of the gun to her face, burning her nose, the heat singeing her cheek, while her father auditioned for their lives.

Maria-Luisa Moresco had no desire to become a housewife in the way Benito Mussolini envisioned. She was destined to be a musician, a pianist. Studying in Germany, it seemed that her dreams were finally within reach. However, with a baby on the way, Maria-Luisa faced a crucial decision about the direction of her life. Marrying Max Strub, a world-renowned German violinist and a dear friend, appeared to be the right choice. With his support, she now had the resources to pursue her dreams.

But with war on the horizon, can their little family survive, and what will become of them if Nazi Germany loses the war?

“The Road to Moresco” by Mark Jamilkowski is a poignant and compelling tale that delves deep into the lives of two starkly different women. Their journeys intertwine in ways that expose the fragility of human existence, as both find themselves irrevocably shaped and scarred by unforeseen circumstances beyond their control. With rich, evocative prose, the narrative captures the intense emotional struggles and resilience of these characters, propelling readers on a heartfelt exploration of loss, hope, and the quest for redemption.

This captivating novel transcends the boundaries of historical fiction, transforming into a sweeping biography that chronicles over a century of the Moresco family’s remarkable journey. Through the ebbs and flows of their lives, the narrative unveils their triumphs and tribulations. Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous 20th century, an era marked by wars, social upheaval, cultural revolutions, and the threat of nuclear war, the story stretches into the present day, concluding with the profound challenges posed by the Covid pandemic in 2020. As readers delve into the pages, they are invited to embark on an emotional voyage through some of history’s most testing times, experiencing the resilience and indomitable spirit of a family enduring the trials of an ever-changing world.

This novel intricately weaves the stories of two remarkable women. The first half draws readers into the colourful world of Maria-Luisa, a character filled with life, dreams, struggles, and a deep passion for music. However, Maria-Luisa is a challenging person to like; her violent outbursts, self-obsession, and neglect—both physical and emotional—of her children make for some difficult reading. As a child, Maria-Luisa was petulant, and as an adult, she became even more self-centred. Although her life is filled with tragedy and horrendous abuse, she remains a formidable presence. Her coldness creates an ambiguous character, leaving the reader feeling uncomfortable in her presence. She certainly is not the kind of woman you would want around your children or even to befriend. She is a taker, extracting what she wants from relationships and discarding the rest.

In a compelling and transformative shift, the narrative delves into the turbulent world of Chiara, the daughter of Maria-Luisa. Chiara’s journey unfolds against the haunting backdrop of her mother’s legacy, interwoven with her own intense struggles. Raised amidst the chaos of indifference and neglect, she endures the emotional scars left by her mother’s cruelty—most memorably in a harrowing scene where her mother slams the piano lid down on Chiara’s delicate fingers, shattering both bones and innocence. Craving the warmth of love yet bewildered by its true nature, Chiara finds herself ensnared in a web of mistaken beliefs, equating passion and obsession with affection. This dangerous misunderstanding pulls her unwittingly into the shadowy depths of abusive relationships, where the cycle of violence threatens to consume her. Yet, amid the storms of her life, Chiara emerges as a fierce survivor, her spirit battered but not broken. She seeks refuge in her faith, which envelops her like a protective cloak, providing solace and resilience. Within her religious community, she forges profound connections with friends who become her sanctuary in a tumultuous world. At the heart of her relentless struggle lies her children—ever-present in her thoughts and actions. Unlike her mother, Chiara is determined to raise them with an abundance of love and kindness, even as she confronts the overwhelming challenges around her. As readers journey through Chiara’s life, they cannot help but feel a deep, resonant sympathy for her. She embodies the tireless quest for a brighter future, all while navigating the treacherous waters of a haunting past, striving to carve out a life of hope and love for her children in the shadow of her own trauma.

The narrative sometimes becomes tangled by the author’s tendency to meticulously chronicle historical events, presenting them in a list-like rather than a flowing manner. While this method can captivate readers in a conventional history book, it unfortunately dulls the vibrant, immersive experience that a compelling historical biography should deliver. In such works, it is the personal stories and rich emotional nuances that should take centre stage, allowing readers to connect deeply with the characters and their journeys. Despite the author’s evident dedication to thorough historical research—a truly commendable pursuit—this wealth of information can inadvertently overshadow the dynamic tale he aims to weave. The balance between factual detail and storytelling is a delicate one, and here, the intricate backdrop sometimes obscures the vivid drama of human experience that truly brings history to life.

This novel immerses readers in terrifying scenes of profound horror, featuring depictions of gang rape and relentless portrayals of domestic violence and child abuse. Yet, amidst the haunting brutality, the emotional turmoil of Maria-Luisa seems largely untouched, as she seems to move through life in a state of numb resilience, barely acknowledging the shadows of her experiences. The concept of trauma resonates deeply with Chiara. She vividly remembers the harrowing scenes of the Russian army’s brutality inflicted upon her mother and stepfather; their suffering etched forever into her mind. And yet, history has a way of circling back on itself. Years after she believed she had finally found refuge within the walls of her own home, the haunting spectres of that violence returned, although this time it was not by an avenging army but by her husband’s friends.

The author has masterfully captured the evolution of the world through the passage of time. The characters’ modes of communication are richly portrayed, transitioning from the familiar rustle of newspapers and the intimate touch of handwritten letters to the rapid-fire exchanges of emails and text messages. This thoughtful representation invites readers to pause and reflect on the myriad transformations that Chiara has experienced throughout her life, compelling them to appreciate the profound shifts in the world in such a short space of time.

“The Road to Moresco” by Mark Jamilkowski is a profoundly poignant historical biography that resonates with the reader, leaving an indelible mark long after the final page is turned.

Review by Mary Anne Yarde
The Coffee Pot Book Club

[Andrea George · Rating 5 out of 5]

First of all, thank you LibraryThing for an arc of this wonderful novel! "The Road to Moresco" by Mark Jamilkowski is his debut novel, and I hope to read many more novels by this talented author in the future. Mr. Jamilkowski reminds me a lot of James Michener. The research as seen in the prologue, the maps included throughout the chapters, and how he connects historical events into the plot made this a truly engaging read. The plot follows the life of Maria-Luisa Moresco and her family. She is a strong-willed woman ahead of her time. She yearns for a life that involves independence from the traditional roles of women during the beginning of the 20th century. There are trials and tribulations throughout, as she and her family navigate the changing times. If you are a fan of well-written historical fiction, I would highly recommend that you add this novel to your tbr list!

[Mb Sumner · Rating 5 out of 5]

This powerful narrative spotlights the lives of resilient female characters, immersing readers in their triumphs and tribulations. Each woman embodies a unique brand of courage and grace, interwoven to create a tapestry of female empowerment. After finishing this book, I felt a renewed sense of motivation and empowerment. I thoroughly enjoyed it and can't wait to revisit its pages!

[Feathered Quill Book Reviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mark Jamilkowski’s debut novel, The Road to Moresco, is a fascinating tale that takes the reader on a journey through the trials and tribulations of the life of concert pianist Moresco.

The opening pages of this story encapsulate the memorable journey the reader is about to embark upon: "...This is a story about people, places and times, but mostly a story about family and the dynamics which influence actions and reactions…Like drips of water from snow melting on a mountain top, each event in turn becomes a drip collecting with the next to form a brook, then a stream, then a river, joining with the rainwater..."

On December 27, 1910, Francesca and Giuseppe Carnabuci are on their way home from religious festivities. They are excited for the New Year and the performances that will occur in celebration of ‘Mary.’ Shortly after they arrive home and prepare for bed, sometime in the wee hours of December 28th, they are awakened to a catastrophe with no warning. Walls cracked and the earth shook as a formidable earthquake ruptured the seabed under the Strait of Messina. Barely escaping their home with their lives intact, the Carnabuci’s stood outside in shock and watched their home crumble before them. In the coming days, the beautiful seaside town by the Strait of Messina would be nothing more than rubble, debris, and destruction. In the aftermath of the earthquake, Guiseppe chose Santa Teresa di Riva as their new home; a small town south from Messina along the coast of Sicily that was tucked up against the mountains and foothills of Mt. Etna. His hope was to rebuild the wonderful life the two had begun together. Soon Guiseppe would learn he was about to be a father and perhaps this was a sign that happiness would surround them in the coming months and years ahead. Sadly, tragedy would knock on their door again when Giuseppe is killed in WWI leaving behind his wife and their son, Marcello.

As the years go by and Marcello is now a young man, he leaves home to seek fortune and becomes Maria-Luisa Moresco’s lover. She is a striking Italian woman inherently driven to attain insurmountable heights in her professional career when those who surround her are more driven to achieve a happy family and a place to call home. Adamantly against the notion that Marcello decides to go off to war, it’s difficult to tell if she is more angry than distraught when she receives the news he is killed in Spain. What Marcello would never know is he fathered a beautiful baby girl (Chiara) to his lover Maria-Luisa. Over time, Maria-Luisa meets the accomplished violinist, Max Strub, and they eventually marry. However, Maria-Luisa feels her life and ambitions have been derailed because she has a child. She is an accomplished pianist in her own right and cannot accept the responsibility of motherhood over a career.

The complexities and layers of this story are difficult to capture in two short paragraphs. However, I commend Mark Jamilkowski for the fantastic job he did when it comes to the attention to detail. He applies great color to his character development in this rich body of work. He takes his time in building the momentum of the story in a ‘rags to riches’ fashion as much as he infuses the perils of Nazi Germany and Musellini’s dictatorial rein over Italy during this iconic period of time in history. There are wonderful nuggets of history that are woven into an intriguing story of musical accomplishment and the challenges of wanting to have it all as sacrifices are made to achieve that dream.

Quill Says: The Road to Moresco is a tantamount example of not only can you not have it all, but sometimes you can’t always get what you want either.

[Mrutyunjaya Sahu · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Road to Moresco by Mark Jamilkowski

The Road to Moresco is a beautifully wrought, emotionally charged novel that blends history, family legacy, and personal discovery into a narrative as compelling as it is transformative. Inspired by real people and true events, Mark Jamilkowski crafts a story that feels both intimate and epic, capturing the fierce resilience of women and the lifelong quest of a son searching for answers buried beneath generations of hardship.

At its core, the novel is a journey—not just across countries and decades, but into the very heart of identity. The story centers on Maria-Luisa Moresco and her daughter Chiara, two women who endure unimaginable trials yet remain rooted in a tenacious will to survive. Jamilkowski paints their struggles with empathy and precision, revealing the emotional scars left by the turbulent landscape of early 20th-century Europe. The result is a portrait of motherhood, courage, and the enduring human instinct to rise despite every force that tries to pull one down.

Maria-Luisa’s story is particularly gripping. Her life becomes a tapestry woven from the frail threads of hope, loss, and determination. Through her, the author transports readers into a world shaped by war, displacement, and the harsh reality of societies unwilling to offer women the security or dignity they deserve. Yet Maria-Luisa refuses to fade into despair. Her resilience becomes both a shield and a beacon, guiding her daughter and echoing across time to the son who later seeks to uncover her truth.

Chiara, equally vivid in portrayal, carries her mother’s burdens into a new generation. Her journey is steeped in trauma but also in extraordinary strength. Jamilkowski handles her emotional landscape with tenderness, allowing readers to witness her attempts to reconcile the shadows of her past with the hope of something better. When her long-buried memories converge with the narrative arc of the son’s search, the novel blossoms into a deeply affecting exploration of generational healing.

The son’s perspective—woven carefully through the book—anchors the story in the present. His quest to understand where he comes from becomes a universal call to reflect on our own histories. His discoveries are profound not only for what they reveal about Maria-Luisa and Chiara but for what they awaken within himself. When the long-anticipated reunion arrives, Jamilkowski delivers a moment of redemption that is subtle, moving, and beautifully earned.

What sets The Road to Moresco apart is Jamilkowski’s ability to intertwine fact and fiction with grace. The real-life inspirations behind the characters lend authenticity to every emotional beat, while the author’s storytelling elevates the narrative into something timeless.

Equal parts heartbreaking and uplifting, The Road to Moresco is a powerful meditation on ancestry, survival, and the extraordinary strength found in uncovering one’s roots. It is a story that lingers, reminding us that the past—no matter how painful—can be the key to understanding who we are and who we may yet become.

[Book Reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Mark Jamilkowski's inaugural novel, The Road to Moresco, presents a sweeping narrative that spans over 150 years, intricately weaving the threads of global historical events with the intimate saga of an Italian family. The novel's canvas stretches from the mid-1800s in Sicily to contemporary Italy, tracing the Moresco family's odyssey across continents and generations. Jamilkowski blends historical fact with fiction, creating a richly detailed world where readers can vividly experience both the grandeur and the turmoil of the times.

The novel's strength lies in its complex and dynamic characters. It features a diverse ensemble, each navigating the turbulent waters of their personal and political realities. Particularly noteworthy are the novel's female characters. They are portrayed as formidable and resilient, actively shaping their destinies against the backdrop of societal constraints.

Jamilkowski's prose is evocative, painting each scene with such vivid imagery that readers feel transported into the heart of the story, experiencing its highs and lows alongside the characters. At the core of The Road to Moresco are themes of fascism, Nazism, and the ramifications of the Second World War. The narrative delves into the intricate dynamics of a mother-daughter relationship set against this tumultuous historical backdrop.

The story primarily focuses on Maria-Luisa Moresco, a determined pianist, as she juggles her career ambitions with the demands of family and motherhood, and her daughter, Chiara, who navigates her own complex path of love and duty. Their relationship, marked by love and conflict, mirrors the larger historical and cultural shifts of the era.

Jamilkowski's debut novel blends music, war, love, and family life. It all comes together in a resonant and powerful narrative. This book is an engaging read for those interested in the interplay of history, culture, politics, and personal stories within the grand tapestry of a family saga. Jamilkowski's work leaves an indelible mark, making The Road to Moresco a commendable addition to the genre.

[Jithendra Jithu · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Road to Moresco by Mark Jamilkowski

Rating:5/5

Review:

👉The Road to Moresco by Mark Jamilkowski is a powerful and emotionally layered novel that blends historical sweep with intimate personal storytelling. Inspired by real people and events, the narrative carries a sense of authenticity that grounds its most dramatic moments in lived experience. From the opening chapters, the novel establishes itself as a journey through memory, identity, and resilience, inviting readers to travel alongside its characters across decades of upheaval and transformation.

👉The story’s emotional core lies in the lives of Maria-Luisa Moresco and her daughter Chiara, whose experiences reflect the harsh realities of Europe in the early twentieth century. Jamilkowski portrays their struggles with remarkable empathy, capturing how war, displacement, and social limitations shape not only circumstances but inner lives. Maria-Luisa emerges as a particularly compelling figure, a woman of quiet strength whose determination to survive and protect her child becomes an act of defiance against an unforgiving world.

👉Chiara’s arc deepens the novel’s emotional resonance. Carrying the weight of her mother’s sacrifices and her own unresolved trauma, she navigates adulthood with a mixture of resilience and fragility. The mother-daughter relationship is rendered with nuance, acknowledging both love and strain without simplifying either. Their bond reflects the broader theme of generational inheritance, showing how pain and courage are passed down together, often inseparably.

👉Running parallel to their story is the son’s search for his origins, which brings the narrative into the present and gives it a reflective dimension. His investigation into his family’s past is not driven by curiosity alone, but by a need to understand himself more fully. As long-buried truths surface, the novel shifts from historical reconstruction to emotional reckoning, culminating in a reunion that feels honest and deeply earned.

Happy reading 😁

#bookreview

[✨ ੈ✩‧April ♡ ʚ♡⃛ɞ✨ · Rating 4 out of 5]

"The Road to Moresco" by Mark Jamilkowski is a captivating journey through the heart of Italy that left me utterly spellbound. Jamilkowski's vivid descriptions and evocative prose transport readers to the picturesque landscapes and charming villages of the Italian countryside.

What sets this book apart is its immersive storytelling and deep appreciation for the beauty of the Italian way of life. As Jamilkowski embarks on his journey, I felt as though I was right there beside him, exploring cobblestone streets, savoring local delicacies, and soaking in the rich history and culture of each new destination.

One of the most compelling aspects of "The Road to Moresco" is Jamilkowski's ability to capture the essence of the people he encounters along the way. From colorful locals to fellow travelers, each character is brought to life with warmth and authenticity, adding depth and richness to the narrative.

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or simply dreaming of your next adventure, "The Road to Moresco" is a must-read. Jamilkowski's passion for Italy is infectious, and his book is sure to inspire readers to embark on their own journeys of discovery. This is a book that will stay with you long after you've turned the final page, reminding you of the magic that awaits when you dare to wander off the beaten path.

[BAfoland · Rating 2 out of 5]

I did not feel like this was historical fiction. It read more like a history book. I expected to find compelling characters but felt instead they were flat and did not engage me at all. The opening set the tone of the book, which was in no way absorbing and as I read further, I kept anticipating a change in pace, which never came. Many of the characters seemed to struggle with emotions resulting in intensely conflictive relationships. While the author made a good effort to help the reader better understand the characters, the dialogue seemed forced at times and did not propel the story forward. I appreciated the historical detail, was impressed with the research, and found the maps beneficial. I got this book as an Early Reviewer for LibraryThing. Thank you to LibraryThing and the author.

[Moona · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Road to Moresco by Mark Jamilkowski is a gripping historical fiction that traces the lives of Maria-Luisa Moresco and her daughter Chiara as they endure the tragedies and upheavals of 20th-century Europe. Maria-Luisa, a determined and ambitious woman, faces numerous hardships, including natural disasters, wars, and personal losses. Her resilience and perseverance serve as the backbone of the story, particularly as she raises Chiara amidst the chaos of World War II and other devastating events.

The novel is a moving exploration of survival and strength in the face of relentless adversity. Fans of historical dramas like Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale and Anthony Doerr’s All the Light We Cannot See will appreciate Jamilkowski’s rich storytelling and complex characters. Through Maria-Luisa and Chiara, the novel beautifully captures the power of persistence during times of crisis.

[CorrieGM · Rating 3 out of 5]

I got this book as an Early Reviewer for LibraryThing. I could not download the book and the author went to a lot of trouble to send me the book in another way.
Thank you again for that Mark.

The book tells the story of a family, starting in Italy and ending in America, from 1910 till about 2021.
To me the most interesting parts were the stories of living in Italy and Germany before and during World War II.
The style of the book was somewhat stilted. I can understand that: the writer has done a lot of research and it is always difficult to rewrite the found information.

[Charla Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a wonderful story that sheds light on how one family survived some very trying circumstances, such as WWII. It’s a story full of powerful women and shows just how tough women are. Some of these women literally went through hell, but refused to just give up. Instead, they held fast to their beliefs in God, church, family, and mostly in their belief in love.

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m not a huge fan of nonfiction, especially biographies, but this one was pretty excellent! There was a lot of history, and there was love and loss and some truly heartbreaking moments. There were some great moments as well. I really enjoyed reading this book.

[Star Gater · Rating 3 out of 5]

Could not engage.

I tried reading on my Kindle and wasn't making any progress. I was able to locate the audio on Hoopla and that didn't help.

I wanted to be entertained. This was a complex history lesson.

A GoodReads Giveaway Kindle win that I appreciate.

[sharon becker]

DNF

[Rocco Spanò · Rating 5 out of 5]

interesting read