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Bridge of Sighs and Dreams
In Nazi-occupied Rome, the lives of two women collide in an arena of deception, greed, and sacrifice. While political cartoonist Angelina Rosini zigzags through a labyrinth of compassionate allies and cunning spies, Lidia Corsini quenches her greed by turning in Jews to the Nazis. Lidia's spiral into immorality accelerates as swiftly as the Jewish population dwindles and, soon, not even her husband, her son, nor Angelina are immune to her madness.
458 pages, Paperback
First published September 15, 2015
5 people are currently reading
193 people want to read
About the author
Pamela Allegretto
2 books118 followersPamela Allegretto Franz attended Colorado University Extension in Denver, and later moved to Florence, Italy where she studied art and Italian at L’Università Per Gli Stranieri. To finance her education her job résumé was as colorful as the Renaissance city itself. She shivered as an artist’s model and sang the blues in catacomb nightclubs. She worked as an interpreter/translator for a textile company and hawked leather goods to tourists.
Back on US soil, the colors on her résumé remained vibrant. In addition to Italian teacher at Berlitz School of Languages and a two-year stint as a Playboy Bunny, she added hairdresser/salon owner, to her palette. Classes in writing, cartooning, and art filled whatever free hours remained.
In 1996 Pamela sold the hair salon and moved with her husband to Hawaii, where, for the following ten years, she devoted herself full-time to painting and writing. Now, a resident of Connecticut, Pamela divides her time between painting, writing, and Italian poetry translations.
Pamela's published writings include dual-language poetry books and translations in Italian literary journals. She paints primarily in acrylic and watercolor. Her published art work includes book and CD covers, illustrations, and cartoons. Comprised in her collaborative art efforts are patina and painted metal wall sculptures on display in Hawaiian galleries, and latex molded figure sculptures on exhibit in galleries and museums worldwide.
Her historical novel: "BRIDGE OF SIGHS AND DREAMS" and her mystery novel "ASHES TO ASHES, DIAMONDS TO DUST" are available in paperback and eBook editions at Amazon sites worldwide, Barnes and Noble, iTunes, and BookLocker
Back on US soil, the colors on her résumé remained vibrant. In addition to Italian teacher at Berlitz School of Languages and a two-year stint as a Playboy Bunny, she added hairdresser/salon owner, to her palette. Classes in writing, cartooning, and art filled whatever free hours remained.
In 1996 Pamela sold the hair salon and moved with her husband to Hawaii, where, for the following ten years, she devoted herself full-time to painting and writing. Now, a resident of Connecticut, Pamela divides her time between painting, writing, and Italian poetry translations.
Pamela's published writings include dual-language poetry books and translations in Italian literary journals. She paints primarily in acrylic and watercolor. Her published art work includes book and CD covers, illustrations, and cartoons. Comprised in her collaborative art efforts are patina and painted metal wall sculptures on display in Hawaiian galleries, and latex molded figure sculptures on exhibit in galleries and museums worldwide.
Her historical novel: "BRIDGE OF SIGHS AND DREAMS" and her mystery novel "ASHES TO ASHES, DIAMONDS TO DUST" are available in paperback and eBook editions at Amazon sites worldwide, Barnes and Noble, iTunes, and BookLocker
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
October 8, 2018
“He was a gentle boy whose sense of decency became too much for him to bear in this hellish war. I pray his compassionate soul is finally at peace.” — Karl
This wonderful read is not only a beautiful evocation of a time in history, but an exciting narrative that belies expectations for this genre. I had to think long and hard about how to adequately describe what a wonderful read Bridge of Sighs and Dreams is, and all I can say is this:
If David Dodge, Martha Albrand, and Sidney Sheldon had ever collaborated on a novel in this genre, it might read something like this. Bridge of Sighs and Dreams has the swiftly moving, natural narrative style of Dodge, and the page-turning drama of Sidney Sheldon at his zenith. More importantly, it has that Martha Albrand template of telling a huge story on a smaller canvas, giving it intimacy and vibrancy. It’s rare when a book that falls into the historical fiction category is this utterly entertaining, and alive with so much movement. This is a good thing, and much preferred over the depressing and self-important books which are dry and depressing in an effort to seem literary. This novel grabs the reader right from the harrowing opening moments in Southern Italy, 1938, where an act of brutality by Mussolini’s Blackshirts will shape Angelina’s life.
“There are times when those of us who are the least political become the most involved. War changes everything.” — Signor Biasi
The narrative which ensues is deceptively easy reading, like David Dodge’s storytelling. Like a painting by one of the old Dutch Masters, however, perhaps Vermeer, layers upon layers are meticulously added by the author until a rich and evocative portrait of Italy occupied by the Germans in WWII emerges. At around the twenty-percent mark, the reader is finding the novel to be a quick and lively read. By the halfway point, the events transpiring have become so incredibly exciting, the reader is unable to turn away. The rich and colorful picture emerging from all the applied layers is so involving we have to keep staring — or rather turning pages — until we have the entire picture. That isn’t hyperbole, it’s an honest evaluation of just how entertaining a read I think this is. If you’re the type of reader intrigued by the book description, the synopsis, but are afraid you’ll be thrown into another dreary and lackluster book feigning "literary" importance but in actuality being pretentious, don’t be. This isn’t boring, or dry, nor is it bloated or padded. It is a great story, excitingly and tenderly told.
There are two very different women at the heart of this engaging novel. One you will love, and one you will loathe. Stories of war and occupation are best told from the viewpoint of the people, and that is what this author has done. Angelina, Lidia, their husbands, Pietro and Aldo, their children and friends. The Italian Resistance in German occupied Rome. The betrayers and the betrayed. Hope and despair, and the resiliency of the human spirit shining through. Not all Germans are shown to be bad. Many, like Karl, hang fiercely to their humanity in the face of war. Nor were all Italians good. Some collaborated with German forces out of greed, like Lidia, one of the most shallow and deceitful human beings you’re likely to ever run across between the covers of a book.
“I can’t put into words the pain in my heart knowing that this and other atrocities I have witnessed have been carried out by citizens of my homeland.” — Karl
As Angelina is swept up in war, and the machinations of the sister-in-law from Hades, the reader is swept up in it along with her, seeing the brutality and retaliations by the Germans. We also see the absurdity of war, as in the pounding of Italy by the Americans. It was necessary to liberate the country, yet caused great damage and fear. If anything, this book spotlights the terrible price the citizenry pays when countries go to war — even when it is absolutely necessary. Were I to list all the events and years this novel covers, it would sound sweeping. Yet Bridge of Sighs and Dreams is told so wonderfully, with such intimacy, there are times when we feel like we’re reading an exciting Sidney Sheldon novel. Just terrific stuff here, with lives we care about in grave doubt, and some intriguing twists the deeper we get into the war.
A tremendously exciting second half to an already involving story, in conjunction with an ending that satisfies in every way possible, make this an outstanding read. If there is a caveat, it might be the obliviousness to Lidia’s manipulations by everyone surrounding her — until it’s too late for some. This tends to make the first portion feel a bit more soapy than it should. But with each layer the author adds to the small canvas on which she’s chosen to tell this sweeping story, it gets better and better. At one point, the reader just wants to crawl into the pages and throttle Lidia. And likewise, they’ll be on the edge of their reading chair anxious for Angelina. The reader aches for everything to turn out alright, even in the darkest moments. Whether it does or not, I cannot say.
If you’re like me, and lament that so much historical fiction is dry, boring, and often pretentious, then read Bridge of Sighs and Dreams. It is fabulous stuff. My highest recommendation.
This wonderful read is not only a beautiful evocation of a time in history, but an exciting narrative that belies expectations for this genre. I had to think long and hard about how to adequately describe what a wonderful read Bridge of Sighs and Dreams is, and all I can say is this:
If David Dodge, Martha Albrand, and Sidney Sheldon had ever collaborated on a novel in this genre, it might read something like this. Bridge of Sighs and Dreams has the swiftly moving, natural narrative style of Dodge, and the page-turning drama of Sidney Sheldon at his zenith. More importantly, it has that Martha Albrand template of telling a huge story on a smaller canvas, giving it intimacy and vibrancy. It’s rare when a book that falls into the historical fiction category is this utterly entertaining, and alive with so much movement. This is a good thing, and much preferred over the depressing and self-important books which are dry and depressing in an effort to seem literary. This novel grabs the reader right from the harrowing opening moments in Southern Italy, 1938, where an act of brutality by Mussolini’s Blackshirts will shape Angelina’s life.
“There are times when those of us who are the least political become the most involved. War changes everything.” — Signor Biasi
The narrative which ensues is deceptively easy reading, like David Dodge’s storytelling. Like a painting by one of the old Dutch Masters, however, perhaps Vermeer, layers upon layers are meticulously added by the author until a rich and evocative portrait of Italy occupied by the Germans in WWII emerges. At around the twenty-percent mark, the reader is finding the novel to be a quick and lively read. By the halfway point, the events transpiring have become so incredibly exciting, the reader is unable to turn away. The rich and colorful picture emerging from all the applied layers is so involving we have to keep staring — or rather turning pages — until we have the entire picture. That isn’t hyperbole, it’s an honest evaluation of just how entertaining a read I think this is. If you’re the type of reader intrigued by the book description, the synopsis, but are afraid you’ll be thrown into another dreary and lackluster book feigning "literary" importance but in actuality being pretentious, don’t be. This isn’t boring, or dry, nor is it bloated or padded. It is a great story, excitingly and tenderly told.
There are two very different women at the heart of this engaging novel. One you will love, and one you will loathe. Stories of war and occupation are best told from the viewpoint of the people, and that is what this author has done. Angelina, Lidia, their husbands, Pietro and Aldo, their children and friends. The Italian Resistance in German occupied Rome. The betrayers and the betrayed. Hope and despair, and the resiliency of the human spirit shining through. Not all Germans are shown to be bad. Many, like Karl, hang fiercely to their humanity in the face of war. Nor were all Italians good. Some collaborated with German forces out of greed, like Lidia, one of the most shallow and deceitful human beings you’re likely to ever run across between the covers of a book.
“I can’t put into words the pain in my heart knowing that this and other atrocities I have witnessed have been carried out by citizens of my homeland.” — Karl
As Angelina is swept up in war, and the machinations of the sister-in-law from Hades, the reader is swept up in it along with her, seeing the brutality and retaliations by the Germans. We also see the absurdity of war, as in the pounding of Italy by the Americans. It was necessary to liberate the country, yet caused great damage and fear. If anything, this book spotlights the terrible price the citizenry pays when countries go to war — even when it is absolutely necessary. Were I to list all the events and years this novel covers, it would sound sweeping. Yet Bridge of Sighs and Dreams is told so wonderfully, with such intimacy, there are times when we feel like we’re reading an exciting Sidney Sheldon novel. Just terrific stuff here, with lives we care about in grave doubt, and some intriguing twists the deeper we get into the war.
A tremendously exciting second half to an already involving story, in conjunction with an ending that satisfies in every way possible, make this an outstanding read. If there is a caveat, it might be the obliviousness to Lidia’s manipulations by everyone surrounding her — until it’s too late for some. This tends to make the first portion feel a bit more soapy than it should. But with each layer the author adds to the small canvas on which she’s chosen to tell this sweeping story, it gets better and better. At one point, the reader just wants to crawl into the pages and throttle Lidia. And likewise, they’ll be on the edge of their reading chair anxious for Angelina. The reader aches for everything to turn out alright, even in the darkest moments. Whether it does or not, I cannot say.
If you’re like me, and lament that so much historical fiction is dry, boring, and often pretentious, then read Bridge of Sighs and Dreams. It is fabulous stuff. My highest recommendation.
August 5, 2016
Bridge of Sighs and Dreams tells the story of one family living in Italy in the 1930s and 1940s. It is a sometimes gritty, sometimes romantic, tale of betrayal, intrigue and – above all – survival. The author’s beautiful yet compact descriptions of the landscape, people and culture effortlessly transport the reader to this fascinating land and complex period in Italian and European history.
Two strong female characters – one who chooses to resist and the other to work with the occupying forces – drive this book, allowing the author to effectively explore the gray areas inherent to both resistance and collaboration. Both women remain human and fallible, and their actions – though sometimes extreme – fit within the characters’ personalities. The physiological and emotional impact of the constant threat of betrayal from friends and family, as well as the hardships brought on by wartime (rampant diseases, lack of medicine and basic supplies), are well-described and help to create understanding for the less than commendable actions taken by normally good people.
Though this book spans almost ten years, the author’s choice to write relatively short chapters sharply focused on the key plot elements and characters’ development is masterful, allowing her to skip through time without leaving the reader disoriented or overwhelmed by an over-abundance of detail.
I really enjoyed reading this book, traveling through Italy and experiencing life under Mussolini and Hitler’s control, through the eyes of these well-developed characters. I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to learn more about this intriguing period in Italian history, as well as those who are just looking for a great (historical fiction) novel to read!
Two strong female characters – one who chooses to resist and the other to work with the occupying forces – drive this book, allowing the author to effectively explore the gray areas inherent to both resistance and collaboration. Both women remain human and fallible, and their actions – though sometimes extreme – fit within the characters’ personalities. The physiological and emotional impact of the constant threat of betrayal from friends and family, as well as the hardships brought on by wartime (rampant diseases, lack of medicine and basic supplies), are well-described and help to create understanding for the less than commendable actions taken by normally good people.
Though this book spans almost ten years, the author’s choice to write relatively short chapters sharply focused on the key plot elements and characters’ development is masterful, allowing her to skip through time without leaving the reader disoriented or overwhelmed by an over-abundance of detail.
I really enjoyed reading this book, traveling through Italy and experiencing life under Mussolini and Hitler’s control, through the eyes of these well-developed characters. I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to learn more about this intriguing period in Italian history, as well as those who are just looking for a great (historical fiction) novel to read!
November 5, 2017
Historical fiction is my favourite genre. I love to be swept away into the life of another place and time and get to meet characters who make every aspect of the story come alive. Bridge of Sighs and Dreams did not let me down in any way. I rode along with the highs and lows of the story, sometimes in shock at the raw details of how the war played out in small Italian villages. I was incredibly impressed with the obvious research that had been done and was most interested to read Pamela's article here: http://jennifersalderson.com/2017/03/...
Understanding how much personal information was woven into the story made it that much more meaningful. I highly recommend this book. Brava, Pamela!
Understanding how much personal information was woven into the story made it that much more meaningful. I highly recommend this book. Brava, Pamela!
September 6, 2020
This is an inspiring read of human endurance against evil in the time of World War 2 where Italy is plunged into war by the Fascist leader Mousilini who, convinced by the equally fascist, narcissistic mad dog Hitler looks to the time of greatness as a Roman Emperor when in fact Italy alone will be no match against the wealth of France and Great Britain. The book takes the reader into the lives of two families, one opposed to Mousilini and all that he stands for and one where the opportunities of wealth, position and the promise of an abundant life leads to the betrayal of family and friends.
Mousilini's Blackshirts are patrolling everywhere in Italy with increased brutality against those showing any disloyalty or resistance. Angelina, unlike her sister in law, despises the Blackshirts and all that Mousilini represents particularly with regard to restrictions of what crops her parents can grow. When Angelina's mother is killed her dislike intensifies. She keeps in her mind her mother's words of "greedy spies'' which well describes Lidia, Pietro's sister. This is a difficult situation as Angelina, Pietro and daughter Gina live in the same house in Vico Equense, overlooking the Bay of Naples (beautiful!) with Lidia, husband Aldo and son Carmine. Aldo is Angelina's art mentor. Lidia's dislike for Angelina and her mother Clara stem from the small leaflets that Clara distributed to farmers to defy Mousilini's orders of cropping for which could have a real impact on her plans, by virtue of association, to move to Rome to foster through her husband's talent a friendship with Mousilini's top man in Rome Colonel Bianca.
Lidia, Aldo and Carmine move to Rome but to Lidia's dismay, the wrong side of Rome, not the area where she would have more opportunities to foster her need for recognition and greed. However, not to be put off, her plans of ingratiating herself with Colonel Bianca start and as the story progresses, Lidia's madness of greed increases, dobbing in those of the resistance, spying on her Jewish neighbours who by now are in a state of panic, ownership of properties and businesses are being transferred in order to deter the Fascists from gaining access, jewellery and money is being buried in secret places. The one big thorn in Lidia's side is that through Pietro's professor from Rome, a Jew, Enrico Pacini, who had initially found their apartment he and his family in turn need to rely on Pietro for safety and they are given refuge in the storage locker of the apartment. This leads to great conflict for the opportunistic Lidia but she manages for sometime to cross both bridges at the same time, reluctantly feeding and maintaining the Jewish family in the storage locker while facilitating the never ending line up of the Italian and German military for Aldo to paint their portraits.
Angelina and Pietro on the other hand decide to move further inland and not long after Pietro is drafted into military service to assist the Germans events start to do an about face. The Nazis start to invade Italy, Mousilini is capitulating and the war comes to Angelina and Gina. The bombing is relentless, Germans and now the Americans making progress. A German foot soldier Karl befriends the two and assists in getting food for them but in retreating and with the Americans increasing their bombing it's beginning to look grim for these two brave hearts with only the belief of reunification with her husband and their dream of Venice that keeps Angelina's determination alive that they will both survive the war. However after the heavy bombing and the destruction of their home she collapses. As fortune has it Angelina and Gina are picked up by the Americans and are cared for at a convent where a friend of her brother's appears with news that he is taking them to Rome.
Lidia's madness is out of control and with the news of her sister in law and daughter coming to live with them she begins to really go off the rails. She hatches a plan whereby she will eventually be rid of the Jews in the storage locker and the bothersome Angelina. However, at the same time the Nazis are also out of control and the hostilities to all Italians increases with eventually all of Lidia's plans finally blowing up in her face.
The author ends this read on a positive note that good can overcome evil with Pietro's return, the foot soldier Karl returning to the story and Carmine, a much happier boy separated from his mother's shadow.
Mousilini's Blackshirts are patrolling everywhere in Italy with increased brutality against those showing any disloyalty or resistance. Angelina, unlike her sister in law, despises the Blackshirts and all that Mousilini represents particularly with regard to restrictions of what crops her parents can grow. When Angelina's mother is killed her dislike intensifies. She keeps in her mind her mother's words of "greedy spies'' which well describes Lidia, Pietro's sister. This is a difficult situation as Angelina, Pietro and daughter Gina live in the same house in Vico Equense, overlooking the Bay of Naples (beautiful!) with Lidia, husband Aldo and son Carmine. Aldo is Angelina's art mentor. Lidia's dislike for Angelina and her mother Clara stem from the small leaflets that Clara distributed to farmers to defy Mousilini's orders of cropping for which could have a real impact on her plans, by virtue of association, to move to Rome to foster through her husband's talent a friendship with Mousilini's top man in Rome Colonel Bianca.
Lidia, Aldo and Carmine move to Rome but to Lidia's dismay, the wrong side of Rome, not the area where she would have more opportunities to foster her need for recognition and greed. However, not to be put off, her plans of ingratiating herself with Colonel Bianca start and as the story progresses, Lidia's madness of greed increases, dobbing in those of the resistance, spying on her Jewish neighbours who by now are in a state of panic, ownership of properties and businesses are being transferred in order to deter the Fascists from gaining access, jewellery and money is being buried in secret places. The one big thorn in Lidia's side is that through Pietro's professor from Rome, a Jew, Enrico Pacini, who had initially found their apartment he and his family in turn need to rely on Pietro for safety and they are given refuge in the storage locker of the apartment. This leads to great conflict for the opportunistic Lidia but she manages for sometime to cross both bridges at the same time, reluctantly feeding and maintaining the Jewish family in the storage locker while facilitating the never ending line up of the Italian and German military for Aldo to paint their portraits.
Angelina and Pietro on the other hand decide to move further inland and not long after Pietro is drafted into military service to assist the Germans events start to do an about face. The Nazis start to invade Italy, Mousilini is capitulating and the war comes to Angelina and Gina. The bombing is relentless, Germans and now the Americans making progress. A German foot soldier Karl befriends the two and assists in getting food for them but in retreating and with the Americans increasing their bombing it's beginning to look grim for these two brave hearts with only the belief of reunification with her husband and their dream of Venice that keeps Angelina's determination alive that they will both survive the war. However after the heavy bombing and the destruction of their home she collapses. As fortune has it Angelina and Gina are picked up by the Americans and are cared for at a convent where a friend of her brother's appears with news that he is taking them to Rome.
Lidia's madness is out of control and with the news of her sister in law and daughter coming to live with them she begins to really go off the rails. She hatches a plan whereby she will eventually be rid of the Jews in the storage locker and the bothersome Angelina. However, at the same time the Nazis are also out of control and the hostilities to all Italians increases with eventually all of Lidia's plans finally blowing up in her face.
The author ends this read on a positive note that good can overcome evil with Pietro's return, the foot soldier Karl returning to the story and Carmine, a much happier boy separated from his mother's shadow.
February 8, 2020
This book as been on my “to read list” for awhile. My local library could not obtain it. I was able to get it on iTunes. I don’t understand why more copies were not printed. This book was very good. I could not put it down and read it in one sitting.
March 13, 2018
A Book Bridging the Disparities of War
This heart wrenching story unfolds in Nazi-occupied Rome during World War II, a backdrop for traitors and spies from many sides: Fascists, Communists, the Resistance, Jews, Nazis, and the Vatican. These disparities hone a fast-paced, engaging story with unforeseen plot twists and turns, fully-fleshed characters, witty dialogue, and artistic snapshots of war—“It appeared to her as though a giant hand picked up the entire town and ground it up in its fist.”
The author deftly paints a vivid and realistic picture of war-torn Italy through the bold brushstrokes of her characters—notably, protagonist Angelina Rosini, a talented portrait painter. In fact, life imitates art when one of the characters comments in reference to a cloak and dagger scenario, “…a painting comes to life after you add the shadows. The placement of shadows is critical…you must find your shadows and put them in their proper place.”
Accuracy is reflected in this historical fiction through the book’s title which delineates the bridge between hope and despair elicited from the ravages of war. The characters themselves represent the disparities of human nature exploited by war for survival: good and evil; loyalty and betrayal; greed and self-sacrifice; honesty and deceit; love and hatred…
I highly recommend this well-written page turner and nail biter that doesn’t mince words or spare the truth by selling the reader short with saccharine sentimentality.
This heart wrenching story unfolds in Nazi-occupied Rome during World War II, a backdrop for traitors and spies from many sides: Fascists, Communists, the Resistance, Jews, Nazis, and the Vatican. These disparities hone a fast-paced, engaging story with unforeseen plot twists and turns, fully-fleshed characters, witty dialogue, and artistic snapshots of war—“It appeared to her as though a giant hand picked up the entire town and ground it up in its fist.”
The author deftly paints a vivid and realistic picture of war-torn Italy through the bold brushstrokes of her characters—notably, protagonist Angelina Rosini, a talented portrait painter. In fact, life imitates art when one of the characters comments in reference to a cloak and dagger scenario, “…a painting comes to life after you add the shadows. The placement of shadows is critical…you must find your shadows and put them in their proper place.”
Accuracy is reflected in this historical fiction through the book’s title which delineates the bridge between hope and despair elicited from the ravages of war. The characters themselves represent the disparities of human nature exploited by war for survival: good and evil; loyalty and betrayal; greed and self-sacrifice; honesty and deceit; love and hatred…
I highly recommend this well-written page turner and nail biter that doesn’t mince words or spare the truth by selling the reader short with saccharine sentimentality.
May 29, 2017
I thoroughly enjoyed every page of Bridge of Sighs and Dreams. The end of each scene left me wanting more. The storyline has many layers: the atrocities of World War 2; human nature at its best and worst; the love between a mother and daughter; the love between husband and wife; loyalty among friends, manipulation and betrayal; and the power of hope. It has all the elements of a book that can captivate and engage.
I was enamoured with some of the characters: Angelina the compassionate artist and her daughter Gina, who represents the innocence of a child; noble men like Pietro, Aldo and Karl who do what is right even when everything around them is wrong; Rosalina who became the grandmother figure, and who provides the much needed comic relief.
The aforementioned benevolent characters are balanced off with the sociopathic behaviour of the SS, Fascist extremists, and Lidia, Angelina's sister-in-law.
The author demonstrates that the human necessity to bond is still present during wartime, and that there still is life after war. The author, being an artist herself, lovingly crafted a new family unit for Angelina using the broken pieces of other families.
September 19, 2017
This novel captivated me from the intense opening set in a small Italian village to the surprise twist at the end. I particularly appreciated how the author seamlessly wove in Italian words and phrasing. If you're a fan of historical fiction, vivid characterization, and/or just darn good writing, be sure to pick this one up!
November 9, 2017
I was touched by the human scale of this well written story against the backdrop of Italy during the 1930s-40s.
I normally look for a fast-paced story, I would say this is a comfortable, even pace. It was well described, but not over done like many do and it struck me as a perfect balance.
I thought the characterisation was both clear and interesting. It gave me the feeling of actually knowing them.
This is a book I can confidently recommend as a memorable read.
I normally look for a fast-paced story, I would say this is a comfortable, even pace. It was well described, but not over done like many do and it struck me as a perfect balance.
I thought the characterisation was both clear and interesting. It gave me the feeling of actually knowing them.
This is a book I can confidently recommend as a memorable read.
June 6, 2018
The Bridge of Sighs and Dreams by Pam Allegretto is a wonderful story set in WWII Italy. Two women, sisters-in-law, are caught up in the trials of war that test their morals, beliefs, and their choices. I was immediately swept up in the images of war-torn Italy from the southern Campania region to the city of Rome. I loved how some characters defied their old beliefs in order to discover what they really valued most. I speak Italian and the author used just enough in context so that the words were understandable to the reader and added flavor to the story. The heroine, Angelina, is courageous and determined to survive in order to protect her child, reunite with her husband taken prisoner and one day travel to Venice, their dream city. Meanwhile, her sister-in-law slowly becomes Angelina’s nemesis. War can change people in different ways is a strong theme. This book won’t disappoint and is worth reading!
February 7, 2018
Stunning novel. Beautifully written. “Bridge of Sighs and Dreams” takes you on an emotional and bittersweet journey through one of the darkest and most disquieting times in modern European history. With grace and style, Author Pamela Allegretto paints a complex panorama of World War II Italy. She skillfully weaves fact and fiction through a string of multifaceted characters that come to life. It is a deeply human story of good and evil, love and hate, loyalty and betrayal, triumph and tragedy during a brutal and devastating time that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit — a people and culture gripped by a nightmare who managed the strength to endure and rise above. If you are looking for a seamless historical fiction, well researched and well told, I highly recommend this captivating and exceptional read.
January 31, 2019
Set during WWII in Italy, this book takes us through worn-torn Italy in a heart-wrenching story of betrayal and hope. Betrayal by Italians against Italians, and then by the occupying Germans against the Italians after they surrendered to the Allies. The author describes the scenes with an artist's eye and one feels transported into this time and place. At the heart of the story is a struggle for survival and one woman's insatiable appetite for money and power, even if it brings down her family. I loved this book. It was a fast read and I couldn't wait to find out how it would end. Highly Recommended.
January 9, 2019
Several people have mentioned that this book is a page turner and they were right. I simply couldn't put it down. I had some idea of Rome's privation and suffering during World War 2, but the author cleverly weaves her gripping story and characters through a string of actual events in the city and in Italy's countryside which just adds to the tension. I was nervous, anxious, worried, sad, hopeful and happy in a wonderful mix of emotions that only a skilful writer can elicit, and I didn't predict the ending, always a positive affirmation for me.
December 20, 2016
A wonderfully fast moving historical novel , underscores the dangers of out of control political power on a to obedient population. And the strength of the average person to make a difference & have their voice heard in any form possible. I really enjoyed the tale with its unique & delishish characters, Pamela Allegretto paints a picture of one family's love and hope during occupied Italy of WW 2. A must read & powerful story
April 16, 2018
I loved this book although the story was at times extremely harrowing. Woven through the account of the Nazi forces (including some good German soldiers) and the Resistance in Southern Italy and Rome is a bewitching story, beginning at the time of the Fascists in the Mussolini regime continuing into the occupation by Nazis in Italy. It develops with a touching and loving relationship between a mother and her small daughter, plus a small wooden carved doll called Pinocchio and a community of artists living in a Jewish quarter in Rome. The author has researched the period thoroughly and her descriptive writing brings the locations vividly into focus. The characters are very plausible and the antagonist, Angelina's sister-in-law, Lidia is about as evil as a being can be, obsessed by greed and power. Lidia is in total contrast to Angelina and the other players, but it is probably Angelina's complex feelings for those she loves and meets which are the strength of this novel. The more I read the harder I found it to put the novel down!
January 10, 2019
A portrait of war-ravaged Rome
I really enjoyed this passionate, almost Gothic novel. But it isn't a fantastical read: there is plenty of real action and the author has done her research. Rome was full of "traitors and spies on all sides... Fascists, Communists, the Resistance, the Jews and even the Catholic Church ..." And against this splattered canvas, we meet a wonderful cast of characters in a page-turning plot with plenty of twists and cliff hangers.
Allegretto doesn't flinch from weaving in the bloody massacres of the Ardeatine caves and Sant'Anna di Azzema and evil is personified by the warped , deeply cruel Lidia who betrays Jews to the Nazis and makes gold through the black market.
The author is a painter herself, as is the feisty heroine, Angelina, who is loved by two honourable men, and involved in "a strange dance...." and is a woman " of unwavering courage..."
My favourite character, however, is humorous Rosalina, herself another artist ( "art was my lover"), who explains to her new friend that to cope with the way forward through this agonising war, she must "find your shadows and put them in the proper place... ", just as you must do to bring a painting to life.
There are plenty of shadows and bags of intrigue in this story. I like the presentation of Karl, "you're a man who is moral and sympathetic... You just happen to be German." In fact, in my head, there is an open discussion as to whether he might have provided a different ending to this great book... No spoilers ...
The descriptions in the story are painted beautifully: "bougainvillea spilling from flowers like from overfilled glasses of wine" and I hope the author has used her brushes to create more stories.
I lived in Rome as a child and I remember an elderly lady who sheltered orphans in a cave; they'd fled from the brutal situation in the city and conditions never fully described to us - this marvellous, passionate book has filled in the details for me. With imagination, yes, but in a very grown up way. Grazie, Pamela Allegretto!
I really enjoyed this passionate, almost Gothic novel. But it isn't a fantastical read: there is plenty of real action and the author has done her research. Rome was full of "traitors and spies on all sides... Fascists, Communists, the Resistance, the Jews and even the Catholic Church ..." And against this splattered canvas, we meet a wonderful cast of characters in a page-turning plot with plenty of twists and cliff hangers.
Allegretto doesn't flinch from weaving in the bloody massacres of the Ardeatine caves and Sant'Anna di Azzema and evil is personified by the warped , deeply cruel Lidia who betrays Jews to the Nazis and makes gold through the black market.
The author is a painter herself, as is the feisty heroine, Angelina, who is loved by two honourable men, and involved in "a strange dance...." and is a woman " of unwavering courage..."
My favourite character, however, is humorous Rosalina, herself another artist ( "art was my lover"), who explains to her new friend that to cope with the way forward through this agonising war, she must "find your shadows and put them in the proper place... ", just as you must do to bring a painting to life.
There are plenty of shadows and bags of intrigue in this story. I like the presentation of Karl, "you're a man who is moral and sympathetic... You just happen to be German." In fact, in my head, there is an open discussion as to whether he might have provided a different ending to this great book... No spoilers ...
The descriptions in the story are painted beautifully: "bougainvillea spilling from flowers like from overfilled glasses of wine" and I hope the author has used her brushes to create more stories.
I lived in Rome as a child and I remember an elderly lady who sheltered orphans in a cave; they'd fled from the brutal situation in the city and conditions never fully described to us - this marvellous, passionate book has filled in the details for me. With imagination, yes, but in a very grown up way. Grazie, Pamela Allegretto!
May 6, 2021
What every war love story should be!
I downloaded Bridge of Sighs and Dreams onto my Kindle and thought I'd read a chapter or two to kill some time before some afternoon and evening plans. I didn't stop reading until early the next morning and I loved every minute of this story! I bought the book on the recommendation of a friend, and while I'm not a fan of the war genre, this is what the genre should be in my opinion. The love story of Angelina and Pietro plays out against the backdrop of Italy during World War 2 and while the politics, nations, oppressors and occupiers could get confusing, the real events act almost as a character whose whims and outbursts turn the plot and reactions of the rest of the characters we come to really care about very quickly.
The story trips along (hence my inability to put the Kindle down) without a lull and the stakes keep getting raised. "We've come this far...we have to keep going..." was the spirit which felt quite fresh in today's world. I LOVE this book and recommend it highly!!!
I downloaded Bridge of Sighs and Dreams onto my Kindle and thought I'd read a chapter or two to kill some time before some afternoon and evening plans. I didn't stop reading until early the next morning and I loved every minute of this story! I bought the book on the recommendation of a friend, and while I'm not a fan of the war genre, this is what the genre should be in my opinion. The love story of Angelina and Pietro plays out against the backdrop of Italy during World War 2 and while the politics, nations, oppressors and occupiers could get confusing, the real events act almost as a character whose whims and outbursts turn the plot and reactions of the rest of the characters we come to really care about very quickly.
The story trips along (hence my inability to put the Kindle down) without a lull and the stakes keep getting raised. "We've come this far...we have to keep going..." was the spirit which felt quite fresh in today's world. I LOVE this book and recommend it highly!!!
July 31, 2019
Absolutely brilliant
A brilliantly written book is set in rural Italy and Rome during World War II.
The writer has a great talent for drawing the reader in from the very beginning. This incredible story tells of the atrocities of war, the heartwrenching loss of family and friends, betrayal, the lies, greed and deceit.
It is such an emotional read, but one that I have no hesitation in recommending.
A brilliantly written book is set in rural Italy and Rome during World War II.
The writer has a great talent for drawing the reader in from the very beginning. This incredible story tells of the atrocities of war, the heartwrenching loss of family and friends, betrayal, the lies, greed and deceit.
It is such an emotional read, but one that I have no hesitation in recommending.
August 21, 2017
This story tells of a family living in Italy in the 1930s a realistic feel about it from time to time with romance, betrayal, captivating tale of survival. Lovely descriptions of the scenery fluently transfer the people it takes the reader on a fascinating journey, characters were vivid very powerful women this story has drama and extreme plots. I recommend this fantastic story.
May 24, 2018
Evocative and resonant. I stumbled on Allegretto on Goodreads and picked up her book to discover what talent she has as a storyteller and an artist. As historical fiction is my favorite genre (of many), and the era of personal interest as well, it was a delight to dive into a setting and era that I know well. Well researched, well plotted, and with richly-layered characters. A real treat.
October 16, 2018
A pacey, unputdownable and well-researched novel set in Italy, starting in the years immediately prior to WWII and then continuing throughout the war itself.
This book swept me into this turbulent world. The very human story of two women whom the war sets in opposition to each other is placed against the backdrop of the inhumanity of war. The characters are well developed and realistic and I was with the main character, Angelina, throughout her journey. Ultimately, it's an uplifting story of the indomitability of the human spirit.
Highly recommended.
This book swept me into this turbulent world. The very human story of two women whom the war sets in opposition to each other is placed against the backdrop of the inhumanity of war. The characters are well developed and realistic and I was with the main character, Angelina, throughout her journey. Ultimately, it's an uplifting story of the indomitability of the human spirit.
Highly recommended.
January 11, 2017
this from J. Michael Dolan, GR author Of The Trumpets of Jericho : A Tale of the Holocaust:
I glanced through this fine book, which was enough to inspire me when my time is once again my own to go back and really read it. Ms. Allegretto is first and foremost a graphic artist and illustrator, but this literary foray of hers makes one wonder, if she hadn't taken up the brush, what she might have accomplished with the pen.
In Bridge she displays a true author's knack for painting a word-picture that puts the reader right there, wherever "there" may be. What's more, as she so amply displays in her novel, she possesses the two attributes every writer of fiction must: an understanding of and ear for plot, and a genuine love for her characters. Even the unsavory ones. For without the latter, not only do the dramatis personae fail to come alive on the page but whatever they would teach us about the human condition comes watered down, too.
Of course, that she chose the structure for Bridge she did increased its chances for success from the get-go. Few are the stories that appeal more than those pitting a likable hero against a despicable villain, in this case the good sister Angelina vs. the evil sister-in-law Lidia. That's not only a tried-and-true formula but great fun. With the added bonus of being set in Mussolini's fascist Italy, a place and time in which fear, unrest, and uncertainty became the stuff of everyday life.
So do what I plan to one day, and come some cold, rainy afternoon snuggle into your favorite armchair with a mug of hot tea at your side and Allegretto's time machine of a book in your lap. You'll enjoy the ride, trust me.
I glanced through this fine book, which was enough to inspire me when my time is once again my own to go back and really read it. Ms. Allegretto is first and foremost a graphic artist and illustrator, but this literary foray of hers makes one wonder, if she hadn't taken up the brush, what she might have accomplished with the pen.
In Bridge she displays a true author's knack for painting a word-picture that puts the reader right there, wherever "there" may be. What's more, as she so amply displays in her novel, she possesses the two attributes every writer of fiction must: an understanding of and ear for plot, and a genuine love for her characters. Even the unsavory ones. For without the latter, not only do the dramatis personae fail to come alive on the page but whatever they would teach us about the human condition comes watered down, too.
Of course, that she chose the structure for Bridge she did increased its chances for success from the get-go. Few are the stories that appeal more than those pitting a likable hero against a despicable villain, in this case the good sister Angelina vs. the evil sister-in-law Lidia. That's not only a tried-and-true formula but great fun. With the added bonus of being set in Mussolini's fascist Italy, a place and time in which fear, unrest, and uncertainty became the stuff of everyday life.
So do what I plan to one day, and come some cold, rainy afternoon snuggle into your favorite armchair with a mug of hot tea at your side and Allegretto's time machine of a book in your lap. You'll enjoy the ride, trust me.
September 26, 2016
A spectacular historical novel!
I am nor never have been a fan of history although I do enjoy historical novels. Bridge of Sighs and Dreams is no exception! I could not put it down, doing so only when I couldn't keep my eyes open and had to sleep! I hope that Pam continues to write more books - I look forward to reading anything she would write. She has a great way of expressing thoughts and painting pictures using words. I did use a dictionary for the occasional Italian phrases but soon I learned that I really didn't need to. The way the phrases were put in the context of the dialogue of her wonderful characters made it easy to determine the meanings. Thanks, Pam, for a wonderful trip through war-torn Italy. I have a much better appreciation for the Italians and all the Europeans, Jewish and non-Jews, who lived through the atrocities of WWII - God bless them!
I am nor never have been a fan of history although I do enjoy historical novels. Bridge of Sighs and Dreams is no exception! I could not put it down, doing so only when I couldn't keep my eyes open and had to sleep! I hope that Pam continues to write more books - I look forward to reading anything she would write. She has a great way of expressing thoughts and painting pictures using words. I did use a dictionary for the occasional Italian phrases but soon I learned that I really didn't need to. The way the phrases were put in the context of the dialogue of her wonderful characters made it easy to determine the meanings. Thanks, Pam, for a wonderful trip through war-torn Italy. I have a much better appreciation for the Italians and all the Europeans, Jewish and non-Jews, who lived through the atrocities of WWII - God bless them!
January 7, 2018
An engrossing and fast-paced read about war-torn Italy
Spirited Angelina Rosini lead an idyllic life in Faicchio, southern Italy in the late 1930s. With an adoring husband, a beloved daughter and her extended family living around her, she thought her life was complete. Her world was ripped asunder by Fascists loyal to Benito Mussolini and Angelina is forced to flee to Rome. But, instead of a safe haven, she encounters the brutal machinations of her scheming sister in law and sinister Nazi officer who pursues her no matter what.
In “Bridge of Sighs and Dreams,” author Pamela Allegretto tells of Angelina’s desperate struggle for her family amidst the horrors of war. With skillfully drawn characters, a compelling historical framework and a plot with unexpected twists and turns, this is a real delight for fans of historical fiction.
Spirited Angelina Rosini lead an idyllic life in Faicchio, southern Italy in the late 1930s. With an adoring husband, a beloved daughter and her extended family living around her, she thought her life was complete. Her world was ripped asunder by Fascists loyal to Benito Mussolini and Angelina is forced to flee to Rome. But, instead of a safe haven, she encounters the brutal machinations of her scheming sister in law and sinister Nazi officer who pursues her no matter what.
In “Bridge of Sighs and Dreams,” author Pamela Allegretto tells of Angelina’s desperate struggle for her family amidst the horrors of war. With skillfully drawn characters, a compelling historical framework and a plot with unexpected twists and turns, this is a real delight for fans of historical fiction.
October 3, 2017
I was packing for Italy while reading Bridge of Sighs and Dreams, a brilliant historical fictional that includes events leading up to and continuing with the WWII occupation of Italy through the eyes of a strong female protagonist. I finished it (with a sigh) a few minutes before our plane landed in Rome. The author's characters of all ages are so thoroughly believable that they accompanied me around the country - they still live in my head and heart - many cherished, some pitied, and several who could only be detested. There is no attempt to glorify or demonize one 'side' over the other in this novel because clearly, war is the enemy of us all. Whether or not you plan a trip to Italy, have been, or live there, I recommend this wonderful read. Brava and thank you to Pamela Allegretto-Franz!
April 1, 2018
Pinocchio and the daisy
It amazes me how much a mother will endure to. Protect her child. The smallest objects often give the most comfort in the darkest of times. I also am struck by the great understanding and trust a young child has in those that show them love and affection and the hurt they suffer when they lose that person from their lives. It is remarkable that children can endure dark times and recover and become the most wonderful human beings. Gina and Carmine made the best of every situation, and Angelina did her best for them. I am appalled by the greed and evil that Carmine's mother had within her. I do. Not understand how anyone could be that cold and conniving. I would definitely recommend this book it is hard to put down.
It amazes me how much a mother will endure to. Protect her child. The smallest objects often give the most comfort in the darkest of times. I also am struck by the great understanding and trust a young child has in those that show them love and affection and the hurt they suffer when they lose that person from their lives. It is remarkable that children can endure dark times and recover and become the most wonderful human beings. Gina and Carmine made the best of every situation, and Angelina did her best for them. I am appalled by the greed and evil that Carmine's mother had within her. I do. Not understand how anyone could be that cold and conniving. I would definitely recommend this book it is hard to put down.
June 3, 2017
Bellissimo libro! I really enjoyed this book. It has all of the elements of a great read....love, family, bravery, greed, jealousy, betrayal, intrigue. The characters are well-developed and the book is very descriptive without being overly wordy. I love that the protagonist and some of the other characters are artists. The descriptions of the art and artmaking are beautiful, even in the backdrop of war, although the atrocities of war and hunger are not downplayed in any way. The inclusion of Italian words is both appropriate and educational.....because, of course, learning Italian is always a good thing! Ciao, Cristina
April 29, 2018
Bridge of Sighs and Dreams is one of the best WWII novels that I have ever read. Along with vivid descriptions of the horrors of war, it introduces interesting, well-developed and realistic characters. The plot is full of twists and turns as it takes the reader through the difficult life and struggle for survival of the main character, Angelina, and her daughter, Gina. This is not your run-of-the-mill war novel. It is a book that takes you back to those horrible years making you feel and experience what the characters are going through. I read with gusto and at times found it hard to put the book down.
January 13, 2018
Pamela Allegreto does a masterful job of leading her readers into the horrors of the German oppression of Italy from 1943-1945. She accomplishes this through the eyes of the victims and the vanquished in a fascinating tale of deep love and callous hate within one Italian family. From beginning to end we are reminded that this war brought out the best and the worst in people. A page turner extraordinaire.
May 26, 2017
What a beautiful story. It is exquisitely and descriptively written, a tale of love and hate, betrayal and trust set in Italy during WWII. This book should be made into a movie. An absolute must-read for literary, historical fiction fans and those who have yet to pick up and read that genre. This story will leave you breathless from the first page to the last.
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