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Martellino series #2
Above the Walls
Riveting World War II family saga with a heart-stopping ending
“Once again, Physioc brings wartime Italy to vibrant life…Convincing historical fiction with a spiritual slant.” — Kirkus Reviews
“It was a delight to step back into the Martellino vineyard and to author Steve Physioc’s unique blend of romantic drama and harrowingly austere pre-war conditions.” — Readers Favorite
For eight years, the Fascist politician Alfredo Obizzi has kept quiet about his affair with Susanna Martellino, the matriarch of the Martellino vineyard. Now in 1938 Italy, Obizzi uses his growing political power to seek revenge on his past enemies, and Susanna and the vineyard’s spiritual leader, Isabella, are at the top of his list. Will faith and forgiveness be enough to lead the vineyard and its inhabitants through the bloodshed and heartbreak of World War II and Obizzi’s vengeance?
Meanwhile, the vineyard’s next generation, DeAngelo and Lily, have been best friends since they were born. But now — is it more? The star-crossed lovers must push through war, distance and outside forces to find out.
Influenced by the teachings of A Course In Miracles, Above the Walls is historical fiction that shows readers the power of love and forgiveness in the face of evil. The turmoil of war intertwines with danger and sacrifice at home in Lucca — with friendship and romance at the heart of the story.
“Once again, Physioc brings wartime Italy to vibrant life…Convincing historical fiction with a spiritual slant.” — Kirkus Reviews
“It was a delight to step back into the Martellino vineyard and to author Steve Physioc’s unique blend of romantic drama and harrowingly austere pre-war conditions.” — Readers Favorite
For eight years, the Fascist politician Alfredo Obizzi has kept quiet about his affair with Susanna Martellino, the matriarch of the Martellino vineyard. Now in 1938 Italy, Obizzi uses his growing political power to seek revenge on his past enemies, and Susanna and the vineyard’s spiritual leader, Isabella, are at the top of his list. Will faith and forgiveness be enough to lead the vineyard and its inhabitants through the bloodshed and heartbreak of World War II and Obizzi’s vengeance?
Meanwhile, the vineyard’s next generation, DeAngelo and Lily, have been best friends since they were born. But now — is it more? The star-crossed lovers must push through war, distance and outside forces to find out.
Influenced by the teachings of A Course In Miracles, Above the Walls is historical fiction that shows readers the power of love and forgiveness in the face of evil. The turmoil of war intertwines with danger and sacrifice at home in Lucca — with friendship and romance at the heart of the story.
473 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 29, 2019
156 people are currently reading
99 people want to read
About the author
Steve Physioc
5 books52 followersAs an Emmy-winning radio and TV broadcaster for football, baseball and basketball, Steve Physioc has been telling stories for 40 years. After a trip to Italy with his wife, Stace, he was inspired to tell a different kind of story — his novels, The Walls of Lucca and Above the Walls. He and Stace live in Kansas City and love to visit and spend time with their children, Ryan and Kevin, and three grandchildren.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
January 27, 2022
I highly recommend this two book series! As a reader of much WWII fiction and nonfiction, very little of what I generally find details the part that Italy played in the war. This series explores the various battles and struggles of the Italian people. Additionally, the characters are well developed as is the plot. Another issue that is explored in this series is the one of religion, specifically the subject of forgiveness. These works inspire me to reexamine my own relationship with God and encourages me to forgive quickly to allow me to have peace.
December 22, 2019
Reviewed by Megan Weiss for Reader Views (12/9)
“Above the Walls” by Steve Physioc is the sequel to the powerful debut novel, “The Walls of Lucca,” which followed the story of a young woman named Isabella, who would find her destiny in bringing peace and love to all she encountered in her life. Set against the violent and terrifying backdrop of World War II, “Above the Walls” picks up 20 years after the end of “The Walls of Lucca,” following Isabella, her husband, the Martellino’s and their children as they find themselves entrenched in the turmoil brought by the spread of Fascism in Italy. Over the course of the book, the beloved cast of characters created by Physioc has to figure out who to fight for what is right, while also doing their best to be the bringers of peace. Staying alive long enough to accomplish that may not be easy, however.
I was a little nervous starting “Above the Walls,” because the first book ended so well, and I was worried the sequel might suffer from the dreaded “sophomore slump,” but Physioc certainly came through. “Above the Walls” pulls you in from the first page and keeps reeling you closer until your heart is pounding with each turn of a page, and you can hardly breathe lest you know what happens next to your favorite characters. The imagery contained within the text paints vivid pictures in the reader’s head while venturing through the story, making it feel like they, too, are fighting alongside the character in the novel. The story transitions between several different character points of view, but the pacing never feels too terribly fast and it was always easy to figure out who was telling the current portion of the story. Each different character has a distinctive tone and way of speaking that help personify them and bring them to life on the pages.
“Above the Walls” is an important book for the current times, because it stresses the importance of love over hate and discrimination, of peace over war. The book’s theme is important in helping readers remember that we are all made of the same essence, regardless of race, nationality, religion or political beliefs. No one group is superior than another, and no one group is less deserving of compassion or aid. “Above the Walls” by Steve Physioc rolls quietly into the minds and hearts of readers and plants a seed which quickly grows to a large, warm, guiding light through which we can see our own world.
“Above the Walls” by Steve Physioc is the sequel to the powerful debut novel, “The Walls of Lucca,” which followed the story of a young woman named Isabella, who would find her destiny in bringing peace and love to all she encountered in her life. Set against the violent and terrifying backdrop of World War II, “Above the Walls” picks up 20 years after the end of “The Walls of Lucca,” following Isabella, her husband, the Martellino’s and their children as they find themselves entrenched in the turmoil brought by the spread of Fascism in Italy. Over the course of the book, the beloved cast of characters created by Physioc has to figure out who to fight for what is right, while also doing their best to be the bringers of peace. Staying alive long enough to accomplish that may not be easy, however.
I was a little nervous starting “Above the Walls,” because the first book ended so well, and I was worried the sequel might suffer from the dreaded “sophomore slump,” but Physioc certainly came through. “Above the Walls” pulls you in from the first page and keeps reeling you closer until your heart is pounding with each turn of a page, and you can hardly breathe lest you know what happens next to your favorite characters. The imagery contained within the text paints vivid pictures in the reader’s head while venturing through the story, making it feel like they, too, are fighting alongside the character in the novel. The story transitions between several different character points of view, but the pacing never feels too terribly fast and it was always easy to figure out who was telling the current portion of the story. Each different character has a distinctive tone and way of speaking that help personify them and bring them to life on the pages.
“Above the Walls” is an important book for the current times, because it stresses the importance of love over hate and discrimination, of peace over war. The book’s theme is important in helping readers remember that we are all made of the same essence, regardless of race, nationality, religion or political beliefs. No one group is superior than another, and no one group is less deserving of compassion or aid. “Above the Walls” by Steve Physioc rolls quietly into the minds and hearts of readers and plants a seed which quickly grows to a large, warm, guiding light through which we can see our own world.
April 6, 2019
Awesome!
I read a lot about WWII. After reading “Beneath a Scarlet Sky” I started to look for WWII books based in Italy. There’s not much out there, especially on Kindle Unlimited. I found “Avanti! Mussolini & the wars of Italy” & although that book was a little hard to read, I was fascinated by what occurred in Italy during WWII. What a mess! One day Italian soldiers are allies with Germany, the next day the Germans are their enemies & those who were their enemies are now their allies. i just cannot imagine. This book touches on the mayhem that was going on. The characters were priceless. But I’m going to have to go back & read the first book over again to refresh my memory. Anyways, loved this book!
I read a lot about WWII. After reading “Beneath a Scarlet Sky” I started to look for WWII books based in Italy. There’s not much out there, especially on Kindle Unlimited. I found “Avanti! Mussolini & the wars of Italy” & although that book was a little hard to read, I was fascinated by what occurred in Italy during WWII. What a mess! One day Italian soldiers are allies with Germany, the next day the Germans are their enemies & those who were their enemies are now their allies. i just cannot imagine. This book touches on the mayhem that was going on. The characters were priceless. But I’m going to have to go back & read the first book over again to refresh my memory. Anyways, loved this book!
January 8, 2021
Amazing!
This book, along with the first one in this set, is an amazing story with amazing characters. I seldom read additional books in series, but this one is a "must read.* Both books are well written with great faith and love, and the characters are so human, with complicated lives. I found my own faith examined and strengthened as I followed the lives of these beautiful Italians who faced enormous losses and even greater gains as they navigated through two world wars while trying to make a living and live their lives in service to God and their fellow man. I highly red both of these books! They each deserve ten stars as five just isn't enough!
This book, along with the first one in this set, is an amazing story with amazing characters. I seldom read additional books in series, but this one is a "must read.* Both books are well written with great faith and love, and the characters are so human, with complicated lives. I found my own faith examined and strengthened as I followed the lives of these beautiful Italians who faced enormous losses and even greater gains as they navigated through two world wars while trying to make a living and live their lives in service to God and their fellow man. I highly red both of these books! They each deserve ten stars as five just isn't enough!
March 19, 2019
The end of the Saga
The conclusion of the story of three families on the farm/vineyard of the Martellino land. This book takes us through WWII & it’s immediate aftermath. Each member of the extended clan has their story told & summed up quite satisfactorily. Mr. Physioc does a great job providing us with a nice neat and somewhat surprising conclusion of the family saga. As mentioned in my review of the earlier book “The Walls of Luca” don’t miss this. You WILL find true enjoyment in them both.
NickTheMoose
The conclusion of the story of three families on the farm/vineyard of the Martellino land. This book takes us through WWII & it’s immediate aftermath. Each member of the extended clan has their story told & summed up quite satisfactorily. Mr. Physioc does a great job providing us with a nice neat and somewhat surprising conclusion of the family saga. As mentioned in my review of the earlier book “The Walls of Luca” don’t miss this. You WILL find true enjoyment in them both.
NickTheMoose
March 31, 2019
The two walls books
The two books by Steve Psysioc I have just finished. After I finished the first book I knew I had to read the second. I enjoyed it as much if not more. The characters were so interesting and the stories certainly keep me reading. My o my criticism would be some of the dialogue was not really right for those times......for instance pay it forward. Several times I noticed phrases that were not used during those time. I should know I am 93 yrs old.
The two books by Steve Psysioc I have just finished. After I finished the first book I knew I had to read the second. I enjoyed it as much if not more. The characters were so interesting and the stories certainly keep me reading. My o my criticism would be some of the dialogue was not really right for those times......for instance pay it forward. Several times I noticed phrases that were not used during those time. I should know I am 93 yrs old.
October 10, 2019
Above the Walls is the second installment from Steve Physioc’s Martellino series. I enjoyed the first book and this one does not disappoint. I thought this book was a great read. It was great to catch up with the characters and meeting new ones as they all head to yet another world war.
I am giving Above the Walls four and a half stars. I highly recommend it for readers who love to read historical fiction.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
I am giving Above the Walls four and a half stars. I highly recommend it for readers who love to read historical fiction.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.
February 26, 2024
The Walls of Lucca and sequel Above the Walls
These were the best reads I’ve had in a long time. Set during WWll in Italy it tells of a beautiful country’s story of olive groves and grapes, combining the production of wine and the developing relationship of the landowners and their workers together with religious commitment and the effects of war. It talks of Italy’s story surrounding Mussolini and Fascism to the developing partisans bravely fighting against it through to the end of the war and it’s impact on the characters. So sad that the book had to come to an end.
These were the best reads I’ve had in a long time. Set during WWll in Italy it tells of a beautiful country’s story of olive groves and grapes, combining the production of wine and the developing relationship of the landowners and their workers together with religious commitment and the effects of war. It talks of Italy’s story surrounding Mussolini and Fascism to the developing partisans bravely fighting against it through to the end of the war and it’s impact on the characters. So sad that the book had to come to an end.
September 22, 2025
A captivating sequel to The Walls of Lucca. Set during WWII, the book captures courage, loss, faith and service to others and contrasts these with fear, hate, and revenge. As with the original novel, Physioc’s writing draws you into the story with great character development, intense conversation, and an emotionally charged plot.
An engaging historical fiction wiring, Above the Walls will certainly appeal to any who have interest in WWII history, but its appeal is much broader due to the excellent writing.
Five stars.
An engaging historical fiction wiring, Above the Walls will certainly appeal to any who have interest in WWII history, but its appeal is much broader due to the excellent writing.
Five stars.
October 17, 2019
The Power to Change
I don’t think I have ever been so moved by two books - which I read together - as these books. Bella’s ability to love and to forgive has inspired me to become that kind of person now, in today’s world. There just is no other way to change our world - and ourselves but to live as God asks us to live - in love and forgiveness. My deepest gratitude for this extraordinary work!
I don’t think I have ever been so moved by two books - which I read together - as these books. Bella’s ability to love and to forgive has inspired me to become that kind of person now, in today’s world. There just is no other way to change our world - and ourselves but to live as God asks us to live - in love and forgiveness. My deepest gratitude for this extraordinary work!
February 5, 2020
When I first picked this book up, I thought it was going to be boring and dry. WWII fiction isn't really what I normally read. But, I was pleasantly surprised! Great characters, descriptions of the area, and well written. The storyline moves along well, and keeps you ingaged, wanting to find out what happens next. Even though I did not read the first in this series, I did not feel "lost" in the prior history. Glad I picked this up.
April 25, 2020
Italy under siege
Book gives a natural, wholistic look at Italy from 1918-1942.
The Martinello family owns a Tuscan vineyard . They employ wine grower and labourers.
The book shows how one person of faith, brings the family, it’s staff and parts of Lucca to a paradigm shift, moving from aristocracy to democracy.
Good descriptive text; characters are true and believable. Insights into living a life in faith.
Book gives a natural, wholistic look at Italy from 1918-1942.
The Martinello family owns a Tuscan vineyard . They employ wine grower and labourers.
The book shows how one person of faith, brings the family, it’s staff and parts of Lucca to a paradigm shift, moving from aristocracy to democracy.
Good descriptive text; characters are true and believable. Insights into living a life in faith.
March 7, 2021
Almost as good as the first
I absolutely loved The Walls of Lucca and the sequel does not disappoint. I am not a fan of the blood and guts of war and could live with less of that but it is important to the storyline. I loved all the characters, especially Isabella. Her relationship with Susanna is an interesting and inspiring one as truly all her relationships are. This book was well worth my investment. Thanks.
I absolutely loved The Walls of Lucca and the sequel does not disappoint. I am not a fan of the blood and guts of war and could live with less of that but it is important to the storyline. I loved all the characters, especially Isabella. Her relationship with Susanna is an interesting and inspiring one as truly all her relationships are. This book was well worth my investment. Thanks.
May 1, 2019
Great Historical Fiction
As a fan of WW2 historical fiction, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. This well written and researched book takes the reader back to Italy where the war of raging. I love the characters, especially Bella, who is a wonderful influence on family and friends. I highly recommend this book.
As a fan of WW2 historical fiction, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel. This well written and researched book takes the reader back to Italy where the war of raging. I love the characters, especially Bella, who is a wonderful influence on family and friends. I highly recommend this book.
May 25, 2019
An excellent read
An excellent portrayal of characters and a good lesson in history. I loved the first book and could not wait to read the conclusion. I underlined so many paragraphs ,as they were words of profound wisdom. I felt like I knew the characters and loved the good people and despised the bad
An excellent portrayal of characters and a good lesson in history. I loved the first book and could not wait to read the conclusion. I underlined so many paragraphs ,as they were words of profound wisdom. I felt like I knew the characters and loved the good people and despised the bad
June 3, 2020
Engaging
This second book in the series is as gripping s the first. Man's hatred for others, the desire for power and what it leads to are all there. Juxtaposed is the lady Isabella, who is peace and light to everyone. It made me do the soul searching that she pronounces to her family.
This second book in the series is as gripping s the first. Man's hatred for others, the desire for power and what it leads to are all there. Juxtaposed is the lady Isabella, who is peace and light to everyone. It made me do the soul searching that she pronounces to her family.
June 25, 2020
This has to be one of the best books I’ve read. After reading the first book on kindle I was able to find this one too. This book follows the families at the vineyard up to and thru WWII. My heart broke for the Italians during the war. By the time I finished the characters in the book felt like family. Isabella continues to be an inspiration.
July 7, 2020
To me, this is excellent writing. I feel that I was in the whole story. And at times, it is nerve racking. The message is clear: forgive and love. There were plenty of chances to do that. It is two world wars with some really bad people in it. I'm so glad I did not go through this. It definitely shows you what Christianity is all about.
Thanks for such a great history lesson.
Thanks for such a great history lesson.
November 26, 2020
A truly good read, with just the right blend of history and fiction. The characters were so real, and Isabella Carollo a true heroine. The twist at the end was a real surprise. The only disappointment was not knowing the fate of Alfredo Obizzi, but I hope he ended up finding something higher than his greed and corruption.
March 13, 2019
Better than the first book. Follows the main characters in post WWI Italy and Mussolini’s rise to WWII. Contains a lot of history of the suffering and destruction that Italy suffered in the war. Continues to stress a message of forgiveness to achieve healing.
May 13, 2020
I really enjoyed this book and the one that came before it, the Walls of Luca. The characters are well developed and have such depth to them. The story line is engrossing and unpredictable. I found it drew me in and I couldn’t put it down. This is truly an author to watch going forward.
February 15, 2019
History, Love, Forgiveness
Once again the author has woven history into a powerful story of humanity and teaches us how to be human.
Once again the author has woven history into a powerful story of humanity and teaches us how to be human.
April 12, 2019
Enjoyed the two books. Characters were will developed. You became engaged in their lives. The escalating terror of WWII was an integral part of the story.
April 20, 2019
Superb
A superbly written book. I hope I get to visit Lucca again after reading both books! Walking along those walls as described in the books.
A superbly written book. I hope I get to visit Lucca again after reading both books! Walking along those walls as described in the books.
May 16, 2019
Italy WW2 history
I enjoyed the story in both books. Battles from Salerno to Rome, Monti Casino
we're historically accurate..Great writing. Looking forward to future books
I enjoyed the story in both books. Battles from Salerno to Rome, Monti Casino
we're historically accurate..Great writing. Looking forward to future books
April 25, 2020
5 starrs
I dont write reviews. 5 stars. Beautiful, sad, uplifting, ..... ..... .. .. ..
.. .. .. .. .. ..
I dont write reviews. 5 stars. Beautiful, sad, uplifting, ..... ..... .. .. ..
.. .. .. .. .. ..
May 21, 2020
Heartwarming story of Italy WWII
Be sure to read "The Walls of Lucca" first but the sequel is even better than the first book. Loved it.
Be sure to read "The Walls of Lucca" first but the sequel is even better than the first book. Loved it.
May 31, 2020
Brilliant history and spirituality during WWII. The ending was perfect. Punctuation errors were a slight distraction.
January 30, 2021
Great story
A wonderful followup to the original Lucas story. The characters become family to the reader. Will there be another book?
A wonderful followup to the original Lucas story. The characters become family to the reader. Will there be another book?
June 4, 2022
Captivating!
Loved this series. History and a story told so beautifully. I could not stop reading. I want more of the characters.
Loved this series. History and a story told so beautifully. I could not stop reading. I want more of the characters.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews