The Forgotten Italian Restaurant: A breathtaking and absolutely gripping World War Two historical romance

Sisters of War #3

by Barbara Josselsohn

Italy, 1943. The girl rushes down the winding streets, tucking the handwritten menu into the wicker basket and thinking only of the code hidden on the delicate paper. Will anyone forgive her for what she’s about to do to save the man she loves?

Present day. Arriving in sun-drenched Caccipulia, Callie grips the faded restaurant menu in trembling hands. Found hidden in her family home, she is certain it will lead her to the truth about her grandmother’s life in Italy during World War Two. Why did her Nonna run away from this beautiful small town, never to return? Lost and alone in the world, could it help Callie understand who she is?

Local café owner Oliver’s dark brown eyes light up when he sees the menu. During the war, one brave family secretly fed desperate Jewish families hidden in safe houses through the village. Callie’s heart soars at the thought that her own dear grandmother was involved.

Diving into the town’s history during long walks down cobbled streets, Callie begins to feel at home under Oliver’s soft gaze. She wonders if she could build a life here with him. Until they push aside magenta flowers on a monument at the heart of the village, and uncover a secret that changes everything…

A grave mistake was made one dark night as the Nazis stalked the village, putting the whole town in terrible danger. When Callie finds out what her grandmother did, will it change the way Oliver feels about her? Will she stay and right the wrongs of the past, or be forced to leave Italy too, just like her Nonna?

A heartbreaking love story that will sweep you away to sun-drenched Italian vineyards to watch hope and bravery prevail in the darkest days of war.

Genres: Historical Fiction, Fiction, Historical

274 pages, Paperback

Published August 16, 2024

About the author

Barbara Josselsohn is a best-selling author known for her captivating contemporary and historical novels, including her latest, The Forgotten Italian Island. This sweeping, multigenerational story delves into the lives of two women bound by a fateful mistake made one night during the Nazi occupation of northern and central Italy. Barbara's work is marked by richly developed characters, intricate emotional landscapes, and immersive settings that transport readers to the heart of each story.
With a talent for blending history and human drama, Barbara’s novels explore complex themes of love, loss, resilience, and the enduring power of secrets. Her storytelling often spans generations, drawing readers into a tapestry of personal and historical struggles. Known for her lush descriptions and evocative prose, Barbara has garnered praise for her ability to bring history to life while crafting deeply emotional, character-driven narratives.
Her books resonate with readers who appreciate stories that combine rich historical details with powerful personal journeys. Currently, Barbara is working on a new World War II novel set in the mountains of southern France.
In addition to her writing career, Barbara teaches novel writing at Sarah Lawrence College and other prestigious venues. When not writing, Barbara enjoys ballet, yoga, reading, and relaxing on the beach. She loves spending time with her family, which includes her beloved rescue pup, Albie.

Reviews

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara Josselsohn writes spectacular historical fiction! I’ve enjoyed three novels by this author this year and am sad to hear that this is the final novel in her WW2 Sisters of War series.

Josselsohn focussed on three very different sisters with three different personalities and showed us their courage and resilience in wartime while she highlighted the value and strength of family. If you haven’t read this series, start with Annalisa’s (scientist) story in Secrets Of The Italian Island and move on to Giulia’s story (dressmaker) in The Lost Gift To The Italian Island before reading this one focussed on the storyteller, Emilia.

You’ll be swept back to Italy and have a front row to the sisters’ evolution as the author weaves the stories of 1943 and present-day into a spellbinding account. I always appreciate how Josselsohn ignites my curiosity and has me considering multiple possibilities as she paints her narrative with brushstrokes of serendipity, bringing together the unlikeliest of people. Emilio and Tori’s story is a great example of this craft. You’ll note that Josselsohn’s romance thread takes a backseat to her historical fiction story focussed on betrayal, forgiveness, secrets, courage and healing.

I’m eager to read whatever this author has planned next!

I was gifted this copy by Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

This emotional story flawlessly drifts between WWII in 1943 and present day. In the first two books of this Sisters of War series, both Mia’s and Giulia’s stories were told. This third book is Callie’s present day story. While visiting Caccipulia, she discovers an old restaurant menu, she soon hopes that it will in some way shine a light on her grandmother’s life during the Second World War.

Callie meets a local café owner named Oliver, and Callie gladly learns that his knowledge about the past just might lead her to the answers she desperately seeks. One thing that Callie learns is that her Nonna had very good reason for ending up in Caccipulia. The fact that her Nonna lived during the Invasion and what role it was that she played proved great significance.

While unraveling clues about her Nonna, Callie finds herself quite drawn to Oliver. As this was already quite an emotional read, the budding romance between Callie and Oliver, especially as their homes and lives were thousands of miles apart, added an extra layer to such a well-written story. The emotional connections between all of the characters have been felt throughout this touching series, As always, Barbara Josselsohn has woven an engaging and compassionate story.

Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

[Patti Procopi · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of those duel timeline books which seem quite popular. The story jumps from present time to Italy during WW2. But it is really a book about love and finding your way home.A bit of history and a bit of romance. Quite nice.

[Caroline|Page~Turners · Rating 5 out of 5]

Callie travels to Caccipulia, Italy with one purpose in mind, to find out everything she can about her beloved Grandmother. Holding tight to the restaurant menu in her hand, she knows there is much to be discovered. Callie sits in a café hanging onto the old menu that holds all the answers. When Callie meets Oliver, a local café owner they have an immediate connection and Callie thinks that Oliver holds the answers to all the questions she has. The more time they spend together, she discovers that during the war there was a family that fed Jewish people that were hiding in safe houses throughout the village. She knows in her heart that her grandmother was part of that family but she can she find the truth?

The Forgotten Italian Restaurant, written by author Barbara Josselsohn is a phenomenal story of never giving up until you find the truth. This amazing time slip from present day to World War II, is an unforgettable treasure. Josselsohn is amazing at capturing the readers heart from the very first page and holding on to it until the last page is turned. The seemless transition between the past and the present made this an unputdownable novel. This wonderful story is definitely on my top 10 list for my 2023 reads. I highly recommend this ten star read. I loved it!

[Janilyn Kocher · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve really enjoyed this series and now readers find out about Emilia’s story.
Callie pretends to be her recently deceased sister Pam when she hits Italy and tries to ferret out the story.
I wasn’t crazy about her lying and thought people took it much better than I would have but it melded the story line effectively.
The split time line was necessary to anchor the story.
The best part was the heartwarming reunion at the end that was such a long time coming.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the early read.

[Emma Crowley · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Forgotten Italian Restaurant is the conclusion to Barbara Josselsohn’s Sisters of War series. This can easily be read as a standalone story as tantalising titbits are dotted throughout as to what had happened in the previous books. So if you are new to this series you will not feel as if you have missed out but by the end you will want to go back and read Annalisa and Giuila’s stories. For the final book the youngest sister Emilia shares her story and things come full circle and everything is revealed.

I have really enjoyed this series which began with Secrets of the Italian Island where we met three sisters who have travelled to the small Italian island of Parissi in the hopes of finding a cure for their father’s illness. But in times of war no one is safe, and the sisters were forced to flee as the Germans arrived on the island. Emilia, aged only 15, went ahead back to their hometown of Caccipulia to tell their father that help was hopefully on the way. The plan was for her sisters to follow and then for the family to try and make it to America. The family are Jewish and with new laws being introduced and the Germans invading from the North they know that they are no longer safe in the beautiful village which they have called home for so long.

Throughout the book I totally forgot that Emilia was so young for the majority of the time she acted way beyond her years showing great strength, courage and fortitude but yet at other points throughout the story she was quite rash and immature. Emilia is in a waiting game for her sisters to arrive back and in the time that they have been away the situation and atmosphere in the village has changed. Unfortunately, she was too late to see her father who succumbed to his illness and now with their family home and her father’s tailor shop taken over by others she is left in a period of limbo. For she can’t forge ahead and go to America without her sisters by her side. The absence of a mother figure plays strongly on Emilia but here is where kindly neighbour Signora Jorelini and her daughter Corinna step in and offer Emilia shelter, support and sustenance while she waits. Knowing what happened in the previous books you view Emilia differently because you are aware that it’s not all plain sailing and that in fact she is being quite naïve but given she doesn’t know the full story I suppose she can’t be blamed for coming across this way.

I felt Emilia out of the three sisters was the least that I connected with. Annalisa and the first book will always have a place in my heart. I wanted to be able to reach into the book and tell Emilia everything and help her in some way but that was impossible and I had to restrain myself and see where her story would go. The book itself has a slow and meandering pace and perhaps a little more action with regards to Emilia’s side of the story would have been beneficial. She is tormented that life will no longer be the same for her family but at the same time she can’t sit by and do nothing. I thought she really stepped up to the plate when she discovers the resistance work that Signora Jorelini and Corinna engage in and it was brave of her to take part in this given she herself was Jewish. She placed herself in danger time and time again in order to help those suffering and in need and she really didn’t have to do this. It showed that she had a human and genuine side and this is highlighted even more when a tough decision needs to be made. One where love and connection are dominating but the results of which will cause heartache and misunderstanding for many decades into the future.As the Germans ever closer to the village will Emilia’s work have to stop? Will she herself become the focus of so much hatred? Will she ever be reunited with her sisters?

The story effortlessly moves back and forth between the past and the present as it has done so in the first two books. In the present day, Callie has just buried her sister Pam and no one would blame her for being a bit messed up. But there is more to Callie than meets the eye. She came across as being full of anguish and in a way bitterness. Alot of the time, especially early on in the book, I felt she as speaking in riddles. Alluding to things that perhaps the reader was meant to know about but didn’t. I found her to be quite frustrating in that she never directly came out and said what she was feeling. There was an undercurrent to her that I couldn’t quite put my finger on and I just sensed that there was something going on that she wasn’t ready to talk about and maybe she never would be. When something is revealed much later on then things made complete sense to me and my opinion of her changed. But the relationship she had with Pam was damaged as she always seemed to be running from her and the family home. What was the reason for this and how can Callie live with the regrets she has now lost that the opportunity to talk openly and whole heartedly with Pam is gone?

Callie is very much at a crossroads in her life and she is aimless with no clear sense of purpose or direction. The family history is revealed and as Pam brought her up following the death of her parents Callie feels she is all alone in the world. That she hadn’t the time to say sorry and make amends and heal what she viewed was a fractured relationship of her own making? How can she move on from this or will all the things left unsaid eat away at her? So what links Emilia and Callie’s stories? Callie discovers a box hidden away by Pam with a code to open it that only Callie would know. Inside are two plane tickets to Italy and reservations booked in a hotel to take partake in a cookery course. Said hotel is in Caccipulia. Why had Pam done this? Especially considering the precarious relationship that had existed between the sisters prior to Pam’s death and given the fact Pam hated to travel preferring to remain in the family home with her husband and young daughter. Callie is confused but also intrigued and given the family history surrounding her grandparents this only gives to more questions?

I was glad when Callie made the decision to travel to Italy and learn more about her family history for there were so many unanswered questions from that time that her grandparents had failed to answer as they refused to talk about how they came to live in America. As a reader all the clues were laid out and to be honest pretty much easy to follow but it was enjoyable to see Callie traverse in the footsteps in the past in order to try and bring about some resolution. She needed to do this in order to move on and to come to a realisation that she was being too hard and down on herself. One line towards the end of the book rung very true for life but also for all the characters in the book. It mentioned that people don’t think about suffering. They kept it to themselves and those who loved them ever know why and that is very much true for both Emilia and Callie. I felt Calle underwent a very much needed transformation in Italy. Yes, there may have been a little bit of subterfuge but it was needed and as the layers of the past are pulled back and things slowly start to make sense. You are rooting for Callie but also interested to see how the past and present will interconnect and if they do will it be successful or a disaster?

The Forgotten Italian Restaurant was an enjoyable read although not my favourite in the series. I just felt that it wasn’t as strong as the other two books but I wouldn’t have missed out on it because the story of the three sisters was fascinating and I was desperately hoping for that happy ever after ending. The epilogue was perfect and I loved how it brought everything full circle and that the series didn’t peter off without a solid conclusion. This was a story of forgiveness, acceptance, courage, secrets and of course some romance. An enjoyable read and an apt conclusion to the Sisters of War series.

[Jennifer Manocherian · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read an advance copy of the book. Barbara Josselsohn again written a thoroughly entertaining historical journey into Italy in WWII in the 1940's, completing her trilogy about three teenage Jewish sisters. The books opens in the present when Callie a young Italian-American woman, discovers that her older sister planned to go with her to Italy to learn more about the past of their grandmother who raised them. Callie goes alone to Caccipulia where she encounters Emilia, the youngest of the three sisters, who is now a bitter old woman. The books travels back and forth between the present and the past as Callie struggles to understand her grandmother's connection with Emilia and what is had to do with Emilia's unhappiness. The backdrop of The Forgotten Italian Restaurant is WWII when the Nazi's invaded Italy and tried to wipe out all the Jews. Emilia, then 15, had returned alone to Caccipulia after a two week absence with medication for her dying father. When she arrived she discovered that he had died and that their home has been taken over. A neighbor, Mrs. Jorelini, took Emilia in at her own peril as Emilia is Jewish. The Nazi's have invaded Italy and are on the hunt for Jews. The story goes back and forth between the present and the past as the truth is slowly revealed. Barbara has an ability to takes you right there visually to such a degree that you feel like you are right there. It is a suspenseful, romantic, sad, dramatic tale that gives the reader a glimpse of the toll of war.

[Terri · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third in the Sisters of War series. Each one of these books was outstanding. They are about three Jewish sisters during World War II. This is the story of the youngest sister, Emilia, who was sent home from the island the three were on to care for their ailing father. She finds that nothing is the same on her return and can only wait for her sisters to come get her. However, the danger increases daily to the Jews and those who shelter them.

This is a dual timeline. The one is 1943 with Emilia, and the other starts in 2019 with Callie. Callie discovered some items that had belonged to her grandmother that raise questions for her, and she decides to go to her grandmother's home country of Italy to try to find answers. There, she makes friends and meets the woman in her grandmother's photos. Getting answers to her questions isn't going to be as easy as she thought, especially after the lies she has told to those she has met.

This historical fiction was so interesting that it had me spellbound. What an engrossing read! The ending wrapped up any loose ends neatly and left me nothing but more of this author's writing.

Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the copy. All thoughts are my own.

[Jimin Han · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this riveting historical novel. Josselsohn’s dual timeline was braided expertly and her vivid details kept me glued to the page. Both Emilia and Callie are wonderful characters whose resilience and courage made me think about the tumultuous times we’re living in today. I’ll never forget this book, especially the ending and the theme of returning and rebuilding when all seemed lost.

[Gosia Nealon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautiful

I read the other two books in the series and was looking forward to this one. Once more, Barbara Josselsohn does not disappoint! The skillful way she crafts her characters and her ability to insert so many layers of emotions is truly amazing! This is the type of book that all historical fiction fans should read. This powerful story will stay with you for a long time!

[Nanasbookreviews · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review

The Forgotten Island by Barbara Josselsohn is a historical romance. It's the third book from the Sisters of War series.

This is the story of the third sister Emilia. We learn what happened to her after returning to her home, what she was faced with, and who helped her so she could escape the Nazis. Along with her story, we have Callie's as well. A young woman who was running away but didn't really know why.
After finding some memorabilia that belonged to her grandma she went to find the truth that haunted them since they were children. While the story was unfolding she was figuring out parts about herself. In the end, everyone had their happily ever after!!!

This is such a beautiful and dramatic story. Reading about the painful period and what people went through touches my heart every time. Both women here had gone through their own personal hell, and I think that this was one thing that connected them deeply. There was an instant chemistry/connection that made them look like friends or even family. I loved how the story was more focused on how they helped each other and less on the romantic aspect. My favorite parts were their first lesson and the time Callie went to be completely honest.

I have enjoyed this book so much and I will rate it with 5 stars. I highly recommend it!!!

[Anina Nouschka · Rating 4 out of 5]

Het derde deel in de ‘Het Italiaanse eiland’-serie gaat over de laatste en jongste zus van de familie, Emilia. Tegelijkertijd wordt het verhaal van Callie verteld, die net haar zus verloren is, en op zoek gaat naar de geschiedenis van haar grootouders. Dit laatste deel is een waardige afsluiting van de serie en krijgt van mij 3,5 ster.

Callie heeft net haar zus verloren met wie ze niet zo’n goede band had. Haar nichtje en zwager blijven achter. Tijdens het opruimen van wat spulletjes in het huis van Pam, komt Callie twee vliegtickets tegen en haar eigen paspoort. Haar zus wilde haar verrassen met een reis naar Rome om de geschiedenis van hun grootouders te ontdekken. Callie vertrekt alsnog op de geplande reis waarin ze niet alleen haar familiegeschiedenis, maar ook zichzelf beter leert kennen.
Emilia vlucht terug naar huis, naar haar zieke vader, om hem te vertellen dat haar zussen spoedig zullen komen met een medicijn. Tot haar grote verdriet ontdekt Emilia dat haar vader al overleden is. Ze wordt opgevangen door signora Jorelini, een vriendin van de familie en diens dochter Corinna, een vriendin van Emilia. De wereld is in oorlog en de situatie voor de Joden wordt gevaarlijker. Emilia raakt steeds verder betrokken bij het verzet, maar dat betekent ook dat ze mensen van wie ze houdt los zal moeten gaan laten…

Callie is haar grootouders, ouders en zus verloren en realiseert zich dat ze jaren op de vlucht is geweest. Ze heeft zich ingelaten met een man die niet echt van haar hield en duwde haar zus van haar weg, terwijl die alleen maar het beste voor haar wilde. De ontwikkeling van Callie gedurende het verhaal is mooi. Door haar reis naar Italië, wat ze ontdekt over haar grootouders en Emilia en de komst van een knappe man, leert Callie zichzelf accepteren en het belang van liefde en familie erkennen en waarderen.

Emilia is tijdens de Tweede Wereldoorlog nog een jong meisje, maar haar verhaal maakte diepe indruk op mij. Ze krijgt namelijk veel te verwerken: haar vader is overleden, ze krijgt geen contact met haar zussen en ontdekt dat signora Jorelini en haar dochter Corinna betrokken zijn bij het verzet. Hoewel de situatie voor de half-Joodse Emilia zelf ook steeds gevaarlijker wordt, besluit ze zich toch aan te sluiten bij het verzet en onderduikers te helpen door hen voedsel te brengen. Emilia is een dappere vrouw die leert om los te laten waar en van wie ze houdt.

Wat ik zelf leuk en bijzonder vond aan dit verhaal, was dat Emilia in de hoofdstukken van Callie nog steeds in leven is en daardoor dus zowel in het heden als verleden een belangrijke rol binnen het verhaal speelt. Dit maakt dat je ziet wie Emilia is geworden en dat de hoofdstukken in het verleden vertellen hoe dat zo is gekomen. Ik vond dat dit extra diepgang aan het verhaal gaf.

Het verhaal van Emilia en Callie is zowel hartverwarmend als triest. De hoofdstukken die zich afspelen in de Tweede Wereldoorlog worden sterk beschreven en lijken een realistisch tijdsbeeld te geven. De auteur lijkt goed onderzocht te hebben wat er destijds speelde in Italië en weet de angstige sfeer goed te vangen. Ondanks alle ellende en angst is het mooi om te lezen hoe mensen elkaar bleven steunen en helpen, dat mensen naar elkaar om bleven kijken, hun schaarse bezittingen deelden en van elkaar hielden. Hoewel dit allemaal gevaren met zich meebracht, liet men elkaar niet vallen en daar zouden we zelfs vandaag de dag nog wat van kunnen leren.

De schrijfstijl is ook in dit laatste deel weer prettig. De hoofdstukken lezen vlot en fijn weg. Ik vond de verhaallijnen niet erg verrassend of spectaculair. Dat is op zich geen probleem, maar maakt wel dat dit verhaal wat mij betreft niet lang in mijn geheugen zal blijven hangen. Ondanks de mooie boodschap en het realistische tijdsbeeld, sprong dit deel van de serie er niet per se uit voor mij. De nadruk op koken paste bij het verhaal, maar was voor mij soms iets te nadrukkelijk aanwezig.

Verlangen naar het Italiaanse eiland is een mooie afsluiter van deze serie. Het verhaal van Emilia en Callie is zowel hartverwarmend als triest en geeft ruimte voor (complexe) familiebanden, een mysterieuze familiegeschiedenis, opbloeiende liefde en zelfacceptatie. De schrijfstijl is vlot en leest prettig, hoewel de verhaallijnen niet heel verrassend waren. In de epiloog komen de verhaallijnen uit alle boeken bij elkaar, wat de serie mooi afrondt. Aanrader voor liefhebbers van (historische) romans!

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Forgotten Italian Restaurant is the third and final book in the Sisters of War series, and although each book contains the story of one sister, I recommend you read them in order to get the full story. This book is about the youngest sister, Emilia. All the books in this series are dual timelines, the past set in Caccipulia, Italy in 1943. Emilia has returned to her village from Parissi Island and is shocked to see how much has changed. The Nazis have arrived and Jewish people are trying to escape to Switzerland. Her father has recently died and their home was confiscated and is being lived in by another family. She is taken in by neighbours who are working with the resistance. She wants to go to America, but is waiting for her sisters to return from the island, but they never do. She and Corrina, the neighbour's daughter, become close and when she leaves to save the love of her life, a Jewish man wanted by the Nazis, she realizes she must leave as well. Years later, she returns to Caccipulia and rebuilds the town running a small hotel and cooking school. In the present, Callie is devastated by the death of her older sister, Pam. When she stays in the house during and after the funeral, she finds a hidden box containing tickets to Caccipulia for both of them, her passport, a wedding picture of her grandparents and a menu card. She decides to take the trip anyway and find out more about her grandparents and her past. When she arrives everyone assumes she is Pam, so she plays along, until she no longer can. What will she find out about her family's past?

This was another wonderful story by Barbara Josselsohn. She does a great job with dual timeline stories, blending both timelines beautifully. I loved the setting of the story. The small town is unspoiled and looks very much like it did in 1943. We meet Oliver, the local café owner, and although he is American, he has settled into life in a small Italian town well. He becomes Callie's friend, guide and confidante. He helps her, gives her some information as well as warning her about Emilia's temperament. Although the past is set during WW2, the past storyline does not dwell so much on the horror, but on how people helped one another to save themselves. I enjoyed both timelines, but found myself relating to the people from the past a bit more. It showed how in the midst of war, there can be good found. They were real, based on true events, and I found the storyline to be historically accurate in my opinion. I loved the themes of family, forgiveness, friendship, secrets, grief, anger and finally finding home to be thoughtfully done and well plotted. I loved that the ending brings the three stories together in a wonderful way. I highly recommend this series to anyone who enjoys historical fiction, especially those set during WW2.

[Ellie Midwood · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara Josselsohn's "The Forgotten Italian Restaurant" is a captivating blend of mystery, history, and romance that transports readers between the verdant landscapes of present-day Italy and the tumultuous era of World War II. The novel follows Callie, a determined young woman who journeys to Caccipulia, Italy, driven by the desire to uncover her grandmother's enigmatic past. Equipped with nothing but an old restaurant menu, Callie embarks on a quest that reveals far more than she ever anticipated.

The dual timeline is masterfully woven, seamlessly transitioning between WWII Italy and both present-day Italy and the United States. This narrative device enriches the story, allowing readers to grasp the profound impact of history on the present. Josselsohn's ability to capture the essence of two distinct periods is remarkable, offering a vivid portrayal of both the war's hardships and the enduring beauty of Italian culture.

Callie's encounter with Oliver, a charming local café owner, adds a layer of romance and intrigue. Their connection is immediate and compelling, and as their relationship deepens, Callie learns that their pasts are intricately intertwined in ways she never imagined. Oliver becomes not only a romantic interest but also a key to unlocking the secrets of her grandmother's life.

One of the novel's most fascinating aspects is the revelation of clandestine work carried out by Italian women to aid Jewish families in hiding. This historical detail adds depth and authenticity to the narrative, highlighting the courage and creativity of those who resisted oppression.

However, the story takes a suspenseful turn when a grave mistake is made within this clandestine network. Josselsohn expertly builds tension as Callie works to uncover the truth, whatever it may be. Without giving you any spoilers, I’ll just say that the resolution is both poignant and satisfying, leaving readers contemplating the complexities of history and the enduring power of love and resilience. Also, if you haven’t read two previous books in the series (I haven’t, but I certainly will now!), don’t worry about it, this one works perfectly as a standalone.

To sum it up, "The Forgotten Italian Restaurant" is an unforgettable read. Josselsohn's storytelling is both engaging and emotionally resonant, making this novel a standout in historical fiction. It's a must-read for anyone interested in the hidden stories of WWII and the enduring bonds of family and love. Highly recommended!

[Belinda Mann · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a wonderful historical fiction, the third of three novels in The Sisters of War series. It is a two-timeline story between 1943 Italy and the present day about three sisters Annalisa, Giulia and Emilia in 1943 and Callie in the present day. The sisters are in the middle of WW2 German Occupation invasion of Italy. They leave to go find medicine for their sick father, but 15-year-old Emilia is the only one who comes back and finds her father has died and another family has moved into their home. Emilia lives with friends of her family Signora Jorelini and her teenage daughter Corinna who had been taking care of the sister's father. Signora Jorelina is cooking food for the Jews who are in hiding in safe houses and the girls are secretly delivering the food to them. Corinna falls in love with Tomas, a Jew who is hiding in one of the houses, and with the secret codes Emilia is drawing on the menu cards that are put in the baskets of food, Tomas knows where to meet Corinna and they leave during the night. Emilia realizes she is putting Signora Jorelini is danger keeping her in her home because the Nazi will be looking for her since she is half Jewish. Emilia leaves as well in search of her sisters.
In the present day, Callie has been living away in New York and Philadelphia and her sister Pam suddenly dies. She goes home for Pam's funeral and to help Pam's husband Joe with their baby girl Chloe and she finds a mysterious box in her sister's desk. Inside the box Callie finds two plane tickets to Cappipulia, Italy for her and Pam a photo of their grandparents on their wedding day and an old menu card with 'you have betrayed me' written on the back in Italian. Callie goes to Italy to find out how her grandmother is connected to this menu card. She meets Oliver who owns a local cafe shop, who becomes her friend. Callie is staying in the hotel owned by the now old Emilia.
This is a great historical read during WW2 invasion of Italy about secrets, betrayal, courage and forgiveness. You can expect sadness, happiness, excitement, and romance. Excellent.

[Nathie leest · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dit boek is alweer het derde en laatste deel van een prachtige serie. Je beleeft ook in dit deel de heerlijke Italiaanse sferen. Maar dit verhaal gaat verder dan dat; het is een geweldig slotstuk van de serie Het Italiaanse eiland, waarin heden en verleden opnieuw op een prachtige manier samenkomen.

Dit keer draait alles om Callie, die na het verlies van haar zus een geheimzinnig doosje vindt met papieren en een vervaagd menu. Het blijkt de sleutel naar het verleden van haar grootmoeder Emilia, de jongste van drie zussen waar deze hele serie om draait. Callie reist af naar Caccipulia en wat volgt is een zoektocht die je zowel emotioneel raakt als historisch boeit. Want we lopen niet alleen door de zonovergoten straten van 2019, maar ook terug naar 1943, toen Italië onder nazibezetting stond.

Josselsohn weet de sfeer van beide tijdlijnen duidelijk neer te zetten. In het verleden voel je de angst, het wantrouwen en de moeilijke keuzes die mensen moesten maken om te overleven. In het heden leef je mee met Callie, die niet alleen antwoorden zoekt over haar grootmoeder, maar ook naar houvast voor zichzelf. Juist die combinatie maakt het verhaal rijk en gelaagd.

Wat Josselsohn goed doet zijn de details. De beschrijvingen van de Italiaanse omgeving, de kleine tradities, maar ook de spanning van een samenleving waarin buren elkaar niet meer kunnen vertrouwen – het wordt allemaal zo levensecht. Daarnaast zijn de personages zo levendig neergezet dat je diep het verhaal in gaat.

Hoewel dit het derde deel is, kun je het prima los lezen. Toch denk ik dat je, net als ik, na dit boek meteen nieuwsgierig wordt naar de verhalen van de andere twee zussen. Het is namelijk zo’n serie die je in één adem wilt beleven.

Verlangen naar het Italiaanse eiland is een sfeervol en ontroerend slot van een bijzondere trilogie. Perfect leesvoer voor iedereen die houdt van historische romans met een vleugje romantiek én een Italiaanse zomerse setting. Je slaat het boek dicht met een warm, voldaan gevoel. De schrijfster heeft zowel dit boek als de hele serie een prachtig einde weten te geven.

[Linda Zagon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Barbara Josselsohn, the Author of “The Forgotten Italian Restaurant” had written a captivating, memorable, and intriguing novel. The Genres for this story are Historical Fiction, Historical Romance, and Fiction. The Author has written two timelines, 1943, and the present. The locations for this story are set in Italy during the Nazi occupation, and in present time, in the United States and Italy. The Author vividly describes the preparation and selection of foods, and the small town in Italy before, during and after the war. The author describes the colorful and dramatic characters as complex and complicated. It is amazing how the characters in the past, and present connect to make this story complete.

During the war, there were some brave and courageous women that brought food to those people harboring Jewish people. There often was a menu, with certain codes that were in the baskets that had significant meaning, and very dangerous. During the war, many Jewish people and others disappeared and others were lost track of. There were some women that risked their lives in saving other people.

In the present, Callie finds a wooden box with a hidden menu, and pictures of people from the past while going through her sister’s drawers. There were symbols on the menu. Callie’s older sister had just passed away leaving a baby and husband. In the box, Callie finds two tickets to Italy and her passport. Callie has many regrets, but feels there is special meaning, and is determined to go to Italy to find out the past secrets of the family.

I appreciate that the author discusses the special bond between sisters, family, and friends. I enjoyed reading about the different foods made in the region. I would highly recommend this thought-provoking novel.

[Jacqui · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 3rd installment in the Sisters of War series, about 3 sisters that went to Parissi Island, an island of dreamers and thinkers to find the medicine that would help cure their father, when WWII hit Italy and the island they were scattered and separated.


After Callie’s sister passed away suddenly, she discovers 2 plane tickets for the two of them to go to Italy, along with a restaurant menu and other memorabilia. She had plans for them to take cooking classes from Emilia. She knew her grandparents were from Italy and had sad memories from that time they never talked about. So she heads to Italy to learn more about her grandma’s connection to Emilia and her family.


I enjoyed this dual timeline story, which helps us learn more about Emilia’s story. It takes place during WWII, after Emilia left the island, and in the present day as Callie learns more about her grandparents and their connection to Emilia. Once again, the author writes an intriguing story, with wonderful characters. I’m always amazed at the bravery of those who lived during WWII, especially those who were trying to help others in need. I would’ve loved to learn more about Emilia’s life after she left the island and her home. I look forward to reading more from this author.


Thanks to @bookouture, @netgalley, and the author of this ARC

[DianeLikesToRead · Rating 5 out of 5]

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I love this series and I’m happy that Emilia is finally getting her story told!! Thank you Bookouture for inviting me to be part of the Books on Tour for “The Forgotten Italian Restaurant” by Barbara Josselsohn. This story has two points of view and it goes back and forth between two eras.
Emilia, 1943 - We learn what happens to her after she returns home. I was glued to my chair as I was reading
her story as she evaded the Nazis.
Callie 2019 - Callie travels to Italy to uncover a secret that her grandparents had. She became friends with a cafe owner and together they work to unravel the past.
Barabra Josselsohn has a way of making you feel as if you were really there in the book. I am looking forward to more books by her. Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#TheForgottenItalianRestaurant #BarbaraJosselsohn #NetGalley #Bookouture #BooksOnTour #BookLove #Bookstagram #NewBook #ILoveBooks #BooksSetInItaly

[Elaine · Rating 5 out of 5]

The forgotten island restaurant.
Barbara Solomon Josselsohn.


Written in dual timelines.
1943-2019
A story about sisters.
Sisterly love Family and more. A time of war.
This one will bring A tear to your eye.
It's just an amazing story that captivates your attention.

Emelia, 1943
The youngest sister is sent back home from the Island. To care for Their father. But things are not what they we're expected to be. Things were far worse than anyone could ever Imagine. In 1943 .


Callie, 2019
A trip to italy, In search of some history family history, about the grandparents, where they came from, and things that happened in the past that must come to light.


I will say i've had a couple of favorite books this year, and this one just topped them all.
This has been a favorite book this year.

I would like to thank Barbara for so many wonderful stories. This one about the sisters in italy and all they went through and the story's ending.Well I absolutely loved the ending.
The ending will bring a tear to your eye.But it's a wonderful wonderful story.

[Reena G · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Forgotten Italian Restaurant is the third book in the series. The dual timelines of the novel were beautifully woven, alternating between Italy and present day USA. I am in awe of the author’s writing style filled with rich details and descriptions of the town of Caccipulia, the food and the culture. She has done an amazing research and I was left for wanting to visit this place.

Callie finds a box full of objects and pictures left in her room by her sister Pam and a ticket to Italy before she passes away. What secrets does this box hold and why did her sister have tickets to fly out to Italy? Who is the woman in the picture with her Nonna and what was their connection?

Callie travels to Italy to unravel the secrets about this mysterious woman Emilia with the help of a cafe owner Oliver. To find out what happened in the lives of people during World War II and the Nazi Occupation in Italy do not miss this heartbreaking story.

Thank you Barbara Josselsohn for the ARC which I truly devoured. I came out much educated about the events of Nazi occupation in Italy which broke my heart. This series/trilogy will remain in my heart for a long time. I can’t wait to read your next book.

[Tessa Talks Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

One-word review: Poignant
Emojis: 🤔🥺 🥰
Rating: 5🌟s

My Top-Five-style Review:

5. The unique tone and plot of this story have completely captivated me. It's a narrative unlike any other, with dual timelines and a character's journey from the US to Italy to uncover what happened to the youngest of the three sisters the series is based around. This approach vividly underscores the diverse impacts of WWII on individuals, keeping me intrigued throughout.

4. The setting, so idyllic, serves as the perfect foil for the WWII timeline. The contrast between the serene beauty of the setting and the harsh realities of war in the timeline creates a compelling backdrop, immersing readers in the story's world and enhancing their reading experience.

3. I highly recommend reading the series in order, so I would only read this book after reading the other two books. However, this story is so well-crafted that it can be enjoyed as a standalone without any confusion about the plot or characters.

2.The research and portrayal of the events and, more importantly, the experiences during WWII are not just phenomenal, they are enlightening. The characters in this series could easily be real people alive during that time. The authenticity is practically palpable, connecting readers to the characters and their experiences in a way that few other books can.

1. The series' themes of family, found family, and sisterhood are not just moving, they are deeply touching. They resonated with me in a way that few other series have. This story didn't just allow me to imagine, it made me truly feel the realities of that time.

[Mystica · Rating 4 out of 5]

The series is about three sisters and I came in only for the last one dealing with Emilia, the youngest of the three. It does very well as a stand-alone.

Told in two separate time lines we are dealing with Italy under Nazi occupation,the mass persecution of Jews and life under very trying times. We move onto present day America, and Callie finding a box of unknown trivia - all talking about a restaurant in Cacciupulia, and people unknown to her. Determined to get to the bottom of this mystery she flies to Italy to unravel a mysterious and unbelievable story.

Full of historical detail, apart from the family saga which in itself was complicated and heartfelt, one is drawn into the maelstrom of what Italian society became once it was occupied. Daily life, suspicion of neighbours, the betrayal by who you thought were friends, and the hardships of the ordinary man are highlighted here. How they circumvent the rules laid down by the Germans was a highlight too.

[Carol Deegan · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book written about World War and the Occupation of Italy is the third of a very well written series about three sisters and their lives. The story moves back and forth between the two timelines of 1943 and 1999 and tells us how the sisters and their friends and family survived during the war. Callie makes a trip to Cappipulia to see if she can find the history behind her grandparents and the woman her grandmother said betrayed her. This book is suspenseful, sad, happy and romantic all at the same time. Anyone who is interested in historical fiction will enjoy this. While there is some romance it is not the main focus of the book. This book can easily be read as a stand-alone but I suggest you read the series in order. I received an arc of this book from NetGalley and the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Dee Groocock · Rating 5 out of 5]

It’s 1943 in Italy. Emilia is out in the dark, taking her basket with her, but where is she going and what is she up to?

In the present day, Callie arrives in Caccipulia, insistent on getting information that will explain why her Nonno and Nonna wouldn’t talk about what happened to them during the war.

Oliver runs a local cafe and promises to help Callie, especially when he recognises the old menu she has.

This was a beautifully told story that held my interest. Callie is a difficult character, she’s running away all the time, but from what? She grew on me as the story unfolded.

Lovely descriptive writing, which made me feel as though I was there and witnessing everything.

Based over two time periods, this made for a thrilling story that I didn’t want to put down. A tale of bravery and secrets, as well as love.

My thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for a copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Susan Douglass · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the other two books in the trilogy by Barbara Josselsohn, and this last book about the youngest sister, Emilia, was well-written and entertaining. The themes of family, love, and forgiving yourself for mistakes made in your past carry the story to an uplifting conclusion, pulling together a few loose threads from the prior two books. Toggling between 1943 with the Nazis' invasion of Italy and the present day (2019), Josselsohn provides enough historical background to create tension about the struggles faced then and the repercussions that continue to be felt by those whose families were affected by those dangerous times. I was sad when the story ended. Perhaps Josselsohn can continue the series, writing about the grandchildren or other modern-day relatives of the three sisters!

[Judy Shemtob · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Forgotten Italian Restaurant by Barbara Josselsohn captured my heart from the very beginning. Each character felt real to me and helped the story unfold with themes of food, family, and love. I appreciated the tremendous detail in the various settings that mixed the enchanting and horrifying aspects of world history. The author tells a story of people living in an Italian village during World War II, who secretly helped save Jews by feeding and hiding them from the Nazis. Masterfully using a dual timeline of 1943 and 2019, Josselsohn treats the reader to a special understanding of particular events that affected her characters’ lives. Having read all three books in the series, I found the ending emotionally rewarding, and look forward to Barbara’s next historical novel set in France.

[Ike Levick · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 2: The forgotten Italian restaurant

This novel is set during WWII, in the heart of a small Italian village off the beaten track. We find out what some of the locals were prepared to do help Jews on the run from Nazis, including sheltering and feeding those on their way to Switzerland or elsewhere.

Against this backdrop, we spend most of our time with one family in 1943 and their descendants in 2019. This story is about broken promises, misunderstandings, decade-old grudges and desperate loneliness and unhappiness. But there are also moments of beauty and joy.

I enjoyed spending some time in Italy for a change!

4 stars

#bookreview #wwii #historicalfiction #romance #resistance

[Vicki F · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Forgotten Italian Restaurant by Barbara Josselsohn is a dual timeline historical fiction. Going back from present day to 1943 WWII in Italy, the story unwinds. So much heartache, so much hope, yet so much misconstrued tragedy. Will the past be revealed? Will the main characters Callie and Emilia find peace with the past and peace within themselves? With an unexpected ending, this was a 5-star read for me.

Releases Aug. 21st. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own

[Nicola “Shortbookthyme” · Rating 4 out of 5]

A interesting duel timeline journey taking us from occupied Italy in 1943 to present day of 1999. The story is about three sisters, their journey to not only survive but to unravel the past.
The story is full of heartbreak moments as well as heartfelt moments.
Though part of a series, this can be read as a standalone.
Recommended reading for fans of historical fiction.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.