What do you think?
Rate this book
The Italian Island
My darling girl, don’t make the same mistakes as I did. Now that my life is coming to an end, take your grandmother’s bracelet, unlock the secret of our family history, and discover who you are…
Twenty-year-old Annie arrives on the Sicilian island of Galatea carrying nothing but grief for the father she just lost in her heart and the weight of the mystery she just inherited on her shoulders. All she knows about her grandmother is that she died in a concentration camp during World War Two. But when handsome local fisherman Salvo’s sea-blue eyes sparkle at the sight of the delicate gold band around her wrist, Annie knows she’s come to the right place.
With Salvo as her guide – taking her hand along the twisting paths up to the cliffside villa her grandmother once called home – Annie doesn’t know if it’s his warm touch or the sun-kissed villa’s vine-covered splendour that takes her breath away. Inside, she finds a beautiful antique gramophone hidden beneath a dusty sheet. Setting the needle, she unlocks the secret of a sacred tradition known only to the women on the island, and with it, the story of her grandmother’s heart-shattering wartime sacrifice.
With every day that passes, Annie is drawn deeper into the island’s rich and tragic history, and finally feels herself begin to heal. But as the past crashes into her present – and she realises the significance of the bracelet she wears and the devastating lengths her grandmother went to protect those she loved – will the truth about her grandmother’s identity have her running into Salvo’s strong arms, or getting on the next flight back to America?
An absolutely heart-wrenching page-turner about how the catastrophic consequences of war can echo through generations, and the power that true love has to save us all.
Twenty-year-old Annie arrives on the Sicilian island of Galatea carrying nothing but grief for the father she just lost in her heart and the weight of the mystery she just inherited on her shoulders. All she knows about her grandmother is that she died in a concentration camp during World War Two. But when handsome local fisherman Salvo’s sea-blue eyes sparkle at the sight of the delicate gold band around her wrist, Annie knows she’s come to the right place.
With Salvo as her guide – taking her hand along the twisting paths up to the cliffside villa her grandmother once called home – Annie doesn’t know if it’s his warm touch or the sun-kissed villa’s vine-covered splendour that takes her breath away. Inside, she finds a beautiful antique gramophone hidden beneath a dusty sheet. Setting the needle, she unlocks the secret of a sacred tradition known only to the women on the island, and with it, the story of her grandmother’s heart-shattering wartime sacrifice.
With every day that passes, Annie is drawn deeper into the island’s rich and tragic history, and finally feels herself begin to heal. But as the past crashes into her present – and she realises the significance of the bracelet she wears and the devastating lengths her grandmother went to protect those she loved – will the truth about her grandmother’s identity have her running into Salvo’s strong arms, or getting on the next flight back to America?
An absolutely heart-wrenching page-turner about how the catastrophic consequences of war can echo through generations, and the power that true love has to save us all.
241 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 6, 2022
1214 people are currently reading
434 people want to read
About the author
Daniela Sacerdoti
34 books377 followersDaniela Sacerdoti is a mother and a writer. Born in Naples, but brought up in a small village in the Italian Alps, she lives near Glasgow with her husband and sons. She steals time to write when everyone has gone to bed, or before they wake up. She’s a Primary teacher, but she chose to be at home with her children. She loves being with her boys, reading anything she can get her hands on and chatting with her girlfriends. But she also adores being on her own, free to daydream and make up stories.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews
January 8, 2022
After her beloved father’s death, and finding the letter and documents from him, Annie took her courage in her hands – the courage her mother continually tried to take from her – and headed from her home in America to Galatea, a Sicilian island. She was after information about her grandmother, the woman her father had only heard about. He – and now she - only knew she’d died just after giving birth to him in Bergen Belsen, from typhoid which had swept the camp. Annie also wore a special bracelet they were sure had belonged to the grandmother.
Climbing to the top of the island, riding on the donkey’s back, Annie was in awe when she saw the magnificent structure. Salvo, a young man living and working on the restoration of the villa was fascinated when he saw the bracelet on Annie’s arm. Gradually the story of the past swept over Annie as she found items belonging to the one she thought was her grandmother. The visions which swept her back were at first scary, but as Annie became deeply involved in the story of the past, she welcomed what she saw. Shock, friendship, love and kindness swirled around her as Annie saw what had happened during those long ago years. But would she find the one she was searching for? Would she find peace on the island of Galatea?
The Italian Island is the first I have read by Daniela Sacerdoti and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Told in two timeframes, but through visions from current day to the past, it was done well. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters – Annie and Salvo, Mira and Mimi, Elvira, Giovanna and Lupo – as well as the scenery on the island and the long-held traditions of the women of Galatea. The Italian Island was an excellent read which I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
Climbing to the top of the island, riding on the donkey’s back, Annie was in awe when she saw the magnificent structure. Salvo, a young man living and working on the restoration of the villa was fascinated when he saw the bracelet on Annie’s arm. Gradually the story of the past swept over Annie as she found items belonging to the one she thought was her grandmother. The visions which swept her back were at first scary, but as Annie became deeply involved in the story of the past, she welcomed what she saw. Shock, friendship, love and kindness swirled around her as Annie saw what had happened during those long ago years. But would she find the one she was searching for? Would she find peace on the island of Galatea?
The Italian Island is the first I have read by Daniela Sacerdoti and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Told in two timeframes, but through visions from current day to the past, it was done well. I thoroughly enjoyed the characters – Annie and Salvo, Mira and Mimi, Elvira, Giovanna and Lupo – as well as the scenery on the island and the long-held traditions of the women of Galatea. The Italian Island was an excellent read which I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
January 20, 2022
The Italian Island by Daniela Sacerdoti is a women’s fiction story that mixes in several genres. This one has a bit of romance, a bit of mystery and with a point of view in the story looking back to World War Two making it also a historical novel.
At twenty Annie was not ready to loose her father but after his passing she vows to complete his last request. Annie’s father gave Annie her grandmother’s bracelet and asked that she track down their family history and learn her roots.
Annie makes her way to the Sicilian island of Galatea with only the knowledge that her grandmother had died in a concentration camp during World War Two and came from the area. After arriving Annie meets a local fisherman, Salvo, that recognizes the gold bracelet and becomes her guide.
Being someone who loves to visit exciting places around the world of course I was intrigued by The Italian Island by Daniela Sacerdoti. This one does take you to a wonderful location but for me the story seemed to get off to a rather slow start and didn’t pull me in until further down the line. Since I did eventually become more engaged in the story I did find this one an OK read overall growing to like the story and characters by the end.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
At twenty Annie was not ready to loose her father but after his passing she vows to complete his last request. Annie’s father gave Annie her grandmother’s bracelet and asked that she track down their family history and learn her roots.
Annie makes her way to the Sicilian island of Galatea with only the knowledge that her grandmother had died in a concentration camp during World War Two and came from the area. After arriving Annie meets a local fisherman, Salvo, that recognizes the gold bracelet and becomes her guide.
Being someone who loves to visit exciting places around the world of course I was intrigued by The Italian Island by Daniela Sacerdoti. This one does take you to a wonderful location but for me the story seemed to get off to a rather slow start and didn’t pull me in until further down the line. Since I did eventually become more engaged in the story I did find this one an OK read overall growing to like the story and characters by the end.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley.
For more reviews please visit https://carriesbookreviews.com/
January 11, 2022
**Happy Publication Day**
3.7 Stars
One Liner: Fast-paced and gripping.
Annie, a twenty-year-old, reaches the Sicilian island of Galatea after the death of her beloved father. She is grieving the loss of the only loving person in her life. Annie has always been low on confidence, thanks to her mother’s standards. The trip to Galatea is a way to gain confidence, get her life back on track, and complete her father’s quest for his birth mother.
Meeting Salvo, the local fisherman, gives Annie the support she needs to search for her grandmother’s history. The delicate bracelet on her wrist makes things easier, but only until she realizes what her grandmother had to do to save her loved ones.
Even as Annie gets used to past unfurling in front of her eyes (literally), is she strong enough to handle the truth? Can she find peace and look forward to her life with Salvo, or will she abandon her quest and go back to the safety of her home?
What happened on Galatea that her grandmother was last found in the WWII concentration camp?
What I Like:
• It’s a short book (240+ pages) and goes at a steady pace. The combination of show and tell works well to keep me hooked.
• The touch of paranormal without putting too much emphasis on it makes it alluring. It suits the beauty of the setting and the ancient ties between the people, land, and sea.
• Mira and Mimi are both strong characters. Annie is, too, without being obvious about it.
• The shift between the past and present is seamless. The story weaves in and out without jerks.
• WWII wasn’t the central focus of the story. After reading quite a few of those this year, I’m glad to read something a little different.
What didn’t Work for Me:
• The rushed ending spoiled the beauty of the story. Sure, the actual issue is solved, but we could’ve gotten a little more information about the characters. I was surprised to see the epilogue when I expected another final chapter to tie the loose ends.
• The epilogue isn’t as effective as it should be. We get the happy ever after, but something vital felt missing from the end. Also, there is no mention of Annie’s mother or her reaction to the developments. Since Annie’s character arc depended on her mother, it was disappointing to not know.
• Annie’s character development wasn’t steady. It went up and down to suit the flow of the story rather than being the other way round. She needed more time to establish herself. The past track stole the limelight (as it almost always happens with dual timelines).
To sum up, The Italian Island is an intriguing and fast-paced story about women connected across generations and stood up for love. It’s not a heavy read, though it does deal with some complex issues of life and relationships.
Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
#NetGalley #TheItalianIsland
3.7 Stars
One Liner: Fast-paced and gripping.
Annie, a twenty-year-old, reaches the Sicilian island of Galatea after the death of her beloved father. She is grieving the loss of the only loving person in her life. Annie has always been low on confidence, thanks to her mother’s standards. The trip to Galatea is a way to gain confidence, get her life back on track, and complete her father’s quest for his birth mother.
Meeting Salvo, the local fisherman, gives Annie the support she needs to search for her grandmother’s history. The delicate bracelet on her wrist makes things easier, but only until she realizes what her grandmother had to do to save her loved ones.
Even as Annie gets used to past unfurling in front of her eyes (literally), is she strong enough to handle the truth? Can she find peace and look forward to her life with Salvo, or will she abandon her quest and go back to the safety of her home?
What happened on Galatea that her grandmother was last found in the WWII concentration camp?
What I Like:
• It’s a short book (240+ pages) and goes at a steady pace. The combination of show and tell works well to keep me hooked.
• The touch of paranormal without putting too much emphasis on it makes it alluring. It suits the beauty of the setting and the ancient ties between the people, land, and sea.
• Mira and Mimi are both strong characters. Annie is, too, without being obvious about it.
• The shift between the past and present is seamless. The story weaves in and out without jerks.
• WWII wasn’t the central focus of the story. After reading quite a few of those this year, I’m glad to read something a little different.
What didn’t Work for Me:
• The rushed ending spoiled the beauty of the story. Sure, the actual issue is solved, but we could’ve gotten a little more information about the characters. I was surprised to see the epilogue when I expected another final chapter to tie the loose ends.
• The epilogue isn’t as effective as it should be. We get the happy ever after, but something vital felt missing from the end. Also, there is no mention of Annie’s mother or her reaction to the developments. Since Annie’s character arc depended on her mother, it was disappointing to not know.
• Annie’s character development wasn’t steady. It went up and down to suit the flow of the story rather than being the other way round. She needed more time to establish herself. The past track stole the limelight (as it almost always happens with dual timelines).
To sum up, The Italian Island is an intriguing and fast-paced story about women connected across generations and stood up for love. It’s not a heavy read, though it does deal with some complex issues of life and relationships.
Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
#NetGalley #TheItalianIsland
January 1, 2022
When Annie’s father dies she is devastated. She decides to follow her father’s last wishes and travel to Italy to look into his family history.
A story about family, love and war and the resilience of the women of that time.
I’m always enjoy reading Daniela Sacerdoti books and this story held my attention from the beginning.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
A story about family, love and war and the resilience of the women of that time.
I’m always enjoy reading Daniela Sacerdoti books and this story held my attention from the beginning.
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for my e-copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 6, 2022
The Bracelet
A beautifully written story of a WWII romance that you will read in one setting. It transforms you to a lovely Italian island with all the flowers, the ocean and the scenery in vivid description. You will see the cliffs and the caves and feel the spray of the ocean on your face as you read the story.
Anne's mother and her have always been distant from each other, her father her only loving parent. When her father dies he leaves her his fortune, a bracelet that once belonged to her grandmother and a note to find her family history. To do this she must travel to a distant Italian island.
Somehow her bracelet is magical as is an old record player she finds in the attic room of the old inn she is staying at which once belonged to her grandmother's family. She works to find out her roots as she falls in love with the handsome Salvo who is restoring the inn.
Will what she finds be too much for her and send her running for home, or will she embrace her findings and own her family inheritance?
The story of her grandmother goes back to WWII, the Nazi's, Russian Spies and a sacrifice her grandmother made out of love which will cost her life. When Anne learns the truth about her grandmother's past will the far reaching arms of the war ease her mind or cause her grief.
I loved this romantic story, the present day part and the WWII part. Two romances, two women and two men that loved them.
I think the author did a fantastic job of describing both the periods in history and especially the local people, their clothing, their customs and their way of life on a small Italian island. It was a beautiful story of love, heartbreak and sacrifice.
I have read several book by this author, each one equally good, and this one does not disappoint. I enjoyed reading this book and I would recommend it.
Thank to Daniela Sacerdoti for writing a great story, to Bookouture for publishing it and to NetGalley for making it available to me to read.
A beautifully written story of a WWII romance that you will read in one setting. It transforms you to a lovely Italian island with all the flowers, the ocean and the scenery in vivid description. You will see the cliffs and the caves and feel the spray of the ocean on your face as you read the story.
Anne's mother and her have always been distant from each other, her father her only loving parent. When her father dies he leaves her his fortune, a bracelet that once belonged to her grandmother and a note to find her family history. To do this she must travel to a distant Italian island.
Somehow her bracelet is magical as is an old record player she finds in the attic room of the old inn she is staying at which once belonged to her grandmother's family. She works to find out her roots as she falls in love with the handsome Salvo who is restoring the inn.
Will what she finds be too much for her and send her running for home, or will she embrace her findings and own her family inheritance?
The story of her grandmother goes back to WWII, the Nazi's, Russian Spies and a sacrifice her grandmother made out of love which will cost her life. When Anne learns the truth about her grandmother's past will the far reaching arms of the war ease her mind or cause her grief.
I loved this romantic story, the present day part and the WWII part. Two romances, two women and two men that loved them.
I think the author did a fantastic job of describing both the periods in history and especially the local people, their clothing, their customs and their way of life on a small Italian island. It was a beautiful story of love, heartbreak and sacrifice.
I have read several book by this author, each one equally good, and this one does not disappoint. I enjoyed reading this book and I would recommend it.
Thank to Daniela Sacerdoti for writing a great story, to Bookouture for publishing it and to NetGalley for making it available to me to read.
January 16, 2022
Traveling to the beautiful island of Galetea in this book with Mira and Annie is a wonderful getaway.
We meet Mira Goodman who was sent from London to the family's villa from London at the cusp of WWII and Annie who travels there present day after her father's death and because of his note that asked her to find out the story of her Grandmother Mira.
The descriptions of the land and food will have you turning the pages as we are taken back to tradition with Mira and even in present day with Annie on this isolated island in the Mediterranean.
When Annie arrives, she finds out that Mira did live in the villa and finds all Mira’s things that were kept by the current owners. Hopefully she will find the answers her father wanted her to find.
We find out the island seems magical and the women have a secret tradition.
And you can’t be in this beautiful place without love.
THE ITALIAN ISLAND was nostalgic and made me want to travel to Galatea.
The characters were warm, inviting, and added to the book’s beauty even with the sadness of her grandmother’s story.
Enjoy….historical fiction fans, fans of delicious food, lush landscapes, and fans of a bit of romance and magic should love this book too. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for
We meet Mira Goodman who was sent from London to the family's villa from London at the cusp of WWII and Annie who travels there present day after her father's death and because of his note that asked her to find out the story of her Grandmother Mira.
The descriptions of the land and food will have you turning the pages as we are taken back to tradition with Mira and even in present day with Annie on this isolated island in the Mediterranean.
When Annie arrives, she finds out that Mira did live in the villa and finds all Mira’s things that were kept by the current owners. Hopefully she will find the answers her father wanted her to find.
We find out the island seems magical and the women have a secret tradition.
And you can’t be in this beautiful place without love.
THE ITALIAN ISLAND was nostalgic and made me want to travel to Galatea.
The characters were warm, inviting, and added to the book’s beauty even with the sadness of her grandmother’s story.
Enjoy….historical fiction fans, fans of delicious food, lush landscapes, and fans of a bit of romance and magic should love this book too. 5/5
This book was given to me by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for
January 19, 2022
This is a new to me author but with the description of the book I just had to try it out and am I ever glad I did.
A woman in her 20's still living at home feels the need to prove her worthiness to her mother after her father's death.
Her father left her a letter explaining his unhappiness in life and asking her to find his family because he had never done so.
Setting out for Italy you will fall in love when you reach the island with it's tropical breezes and delightfully delicious foods.
This time slip novel has our main character falling into a trance and being able to experience what her past relative did which answers a lot of answers and brings her grandmother's life into the light.
Family secrets come to light as we see the love experienced and feel the betrayal deep in the soul. You will be swept off your feet in this stunning Italian romance.
Pub Date 11 Jan 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
A woman in her 20's still living at home feels the need to prove her worthiness to her mother after her father's death.
Her father left her a letter explaining his unhappiness in life and asking her to find his family because he had never done so.
Setting out for Italy you will fall in love when you reach the island with it's tropical breezes and delightfully delicious foods.
This time slip novel has our main character falling into a trance and being able to experience what her past relative did which answers a lot of answers and brings her grandmother's life into the light.
Family secrets come to light as we see the love experienced and feel the betrayal deep in the soul. You will be swept off your feet in this stunning Italian romance.
Pub Date 11 Jan 2022
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.
January 11, 2022
“Take your grandmother’s bracelet, unlock the secret of our family history, and discover who you are…”
Wow! This was not at all what I was expecting!
Romance, magic, myth and a little fantasy, all wonderfully intertwined to create a heart-breaking, beautifully poignant, richly atmospheric storyline.
Daniela is a new to me author, although I shall definitely be adding more of her books to my ‘wish list’. She is an amazingly consummate storyteller, whose skill in the imagery her words can evoke, added such great visual depth and range to the lovely descriptive narrative. So strong and almost tactile was the sense of time and place, I became totally immersed in the lives of Mira, Mimi, Annie and Elvira, and was sad when I realised that I had turned the final page and my journey was at an end.
I can share a short resume of the storyline, however to try and explain the nuances and sheer magic of the writing, would be almost impossible without giving away way too many spoilers and leaving you with far more questions than answers. Even to say that the short, fluent chapters, were narrated in alternate timelines by Mira and Annie themselves, is perhaps a little ambiguous in itself, as Annie does in fact speak for them both, but that’s about all I want to give away!
Mira and Annie, separated by a generation, are both the unwanted daughters of strong and demanding mothers, which has left them both feeling rather vulnerable and fragile of mind. Whereas Mira’s brother is doted on and cossetted by both his parents; Annie is an only child and her father is all too aware of the strained relationship she has with her mother, for which he more than compensates, so close are they.
By 1939, Mira has well and truly blotted her copybook with her parents, so with a broken heart, an irreparably damaged reputation and a deeply troubled mind, she is banished to the tiny Island of Galatea, with a veritable suitcase full of pills and medication to keep her compliant and see out the impending war. There, she becomes firm and fast friends with one of the villa’s staff, Mimi. The local doctor Lupo, helps Mimi in her quest to restore Mira’s health and give her release from the overwhelming secret she has had to bear alone. But as the war rages on around them, Mira’s spoilt and selfish brother Gavriel, brings trouble to the peaceful isolation of the island and now it is Mira’s turn to try and save Mimi from his spell, before she gets hurt.
Fast forward to 2018, when Annie suddenly loses her father, only to discover that he has disinherited his wife in her favour, and has left his dying wish that she take her new found wealth, follow the few clues he has managed to gather and the single tangible possession he has from his mother, to try and trace the birth family he never knew, as he was adopted as a baby. Annie’s journey also takes her to Galatea and following in Mira’s footsteps, she finds herself staying in the same bedroom at the lovely Villa Onde, where she falls under the tender ministrations of local islander, Elvira. Annie immediately feels the connection between herself and Mira, as their metaphoric paths begin to cross and their stories converge almost immediately. There is something about the island which leads both girls to discover an inner rebellious strength neither knew they possessed and each finds a true island love, which transcends their wildest imaginations and dreams, although such happiness and contentment doesn’t come without huge personal cost.
The power and sheer magnetism of the women of Galatea, is clear for all to witness and their mystical powers have withstood the test of time and the passing years, as Elvira reveals to Annie the secrets of the past and why Mira and Mimi are such an important part of that history. The island has woven its magic around Annie and she can’t think of anywhere else she would rather be.
Daniela forms a wonderfully fluent and structured and multi-layered storyline, which evolves naturally and generically without any sense of being forced or rushed to any conclusions or endings, allowing me to be carried away by the solitude and tranquillity of this beautiful setting, which enhances the air of magical mystery, despite the unwelcome and devastating impact of interruptions and intrusions by a world at war outside of its watery borders, I had all but forgotten about. Evocatively atmospheric, emotionally intense and beautifully textured, the visual depth and skilful imagery with words, adds some amazing depth and range, which held me in thrall and completely immersed me. There are many twists and turns in this winding road of a story and I never foresaw the eventual outcome before it actually happened.
An eclectic mix of well defined and developed characters only serve to complete, compliment and populate this compelling picture. The synergy between them and the positive energy they exude is tangible, and whilst they are often complex and emotional, raw, vulnerable and passionate, as befits their Italian island connections; they are always genuine, believable, authentic and easy to identify with. They have been afforded a large and generous voice by the author, with which to guide me through their story, with their narrative and dialogue lovingly documented from the heart.
What typically makes reading such a wonderful experience for me, is that with each and every new book, I am taken on a unique and individual journey, by authors who fire my imagination and stimulate my senses. This story was definitely one of a kind, so I can only recommend that you read it for yourself and see where your journey leads you!
To read more about the author and check out my personal memorable extracts from the book, visit...
https://www.fiction-books.biz/reviews...
Wow! This was not at all what I was expecting!
Romance, magic, myth and a little fantasy, all wonderfully intertwined to create a heart-breaking, beautifully poignant, richly atmospheric storyline.
Daniela is a new to me author, although I shall definitely be adding more of her books to my ‘wish list’. She is an amazingly consummate storyteller, whose skill in the imagery her words can evoke, added such great visual depth and range to the lovely descriptive narrative. So strong and almost tactile was the sense of time and place, I became totally immersed in the lives of Mira, Mimi, Annie and Elvira, and was sad when I realised that I had turned the final page and my journey was at an end.
I can share a short resume of the storyline, however to try and explain the nuances and sheer magic of the writing, would be almost impossible without giving away way too many spoilers and leaving you with far more questions than answers. Even to say that the short, fluent chapters, were narrated in alternate timelines by Mira and Annie themselves, is perhaps a little ambiguous in itself, as Annie does in fact speak for them both, but that’s about all I want to give away!
Mira and Annie, separated by a generation, are both the unwanted daughters of strong and demanding mothers, which has left them both feeling rather vulnerable and fragile of mind. Whereas Mira’s brother is doted on and cossetted by both his parents; Annie is an only child and her father is all too aware of the strained relationship she has with her mother, for which he more than compensates, so close are they.
By 1939, Mira has well and truly blotted her copybook with her parents, so with a broken heart, an irreparably damaged reputation and a deeply troubled mind, she is banished to the tiny Island of Galatea, with a veritable suitcase full of pills and medication to keep her compliant and see out the impending war. There, she becomes firm and fast friends with one of the villa’s staff, Mimi. The local doctor Lupo, helps Mimi in her quest to restore Mira’s health and give her release from the overwhelming secret she has had to bear alone. But as the war rages on around them, Mira’s spoilt and selfish brother Gavriel, brings trouble to the peaceful isolation of the island and now it is Mira’s turn to try and save Mimi from his spell, before she gets hurt.
Fast forward to 2018, when Annie suddenly loses her father, only to discover that he has disinherited his wife in her favour, and has left his dying wish that she take her new found wealth, follow the few clues he has managed to gather and the single tangible possession he has from his mother, to try and trace the birth family he never knew, as he was adopted as a baby. Annie’s journey also takes her to Galatea and following in Mira’s footsteps, she finds herself staying in the same bedroom at the lovely Villa Onde, where she falls under the tender ministrations of local islander, Elvira. Annie immediately feels the connection between herself and Mira, as their metaphoric paths begin to cross and their stories converge almost immediately. There is something about the island which leads both girls to discover an inner rebellious strength neither knew they possessed and each finds a true island love, which transcends their wildest imaginations and dreams, although such happiness and contentment doesn’t come without huge personal cost.
The power and sheer magnetism of the women of Galatea, is clear for all to witness and their mystical powers have withstood the test of time and the passing years, as Elvira reveals to Annie the secrets of the past and why Mira and Mimi are such an important part of that history. The island has woven its magic around Annie and she can’t think of anywhere else she would rather be.
Daniela forms a wonderfully fluent and structured and multi-layered storyline, which evolves naturally and generically without any sense of being forced or rushed to any conclusions or endings, allowing me to be carried away by the solitude and tranquillity of this beautiful setting, which enhances the air of magical mystery, despite the unwelcome and devastating impact of interruptions and intrusions by a world at war outside of its watery borders, I had all but forgotten about. Evocatively atmospheric, emotionally intense and beautifully textured, the visual depth and skilful imagery with words, adds some amazing depth and range, which held me in thrall and completely immersed me. There are many twists and turns in this winding road of a story and I never foresaw the eventual outcome before it actually happened.
An eclectic mix of well defined and developed characters only serve to complete, compliment and populate this compelling picture. The synergy between them and the positive energy they exude is tangible, and whilst they are often complex and emotional, raw, vulnerable and passionate, as befits their Italian island connections; they are always genuine, believable, authentic and easy to identify with. They have been afforded a large and generous voice by the author, with which to guide me through their story, with their narrative and dialogue lovingly documented from the heart.
What typically makes reading such a wonderful experience for me, is that with each and every new book, I am taken on a unique and individual journey, by authors who fire my imagination and stimulate my senses. This story was definitely one of a kind, so I can only recommend that you read it for yourself and see where your journey leads you!
To read more about the author and check out my personal memorable extracts from the book, visit...
https://www.fiction-books.biz/reviews...
December 2, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my digital copy in exchange for an honest review. I requested this one because I will literally read pretty much anything having to do with Italy. Throw in a word like island and I feel like I have to read it lol. And I'm not going to lie...books like these tend to be my favorite because they start with a mission...in this particular case, Annie's dad dies and it is basically his last request that she go to Italy and discover who they are...all she has is a bracelet and a name and the island to go on...and I have to say I was hooked from the beginning...I loved the story line, I loved the characters, most of them, and I obviously loved the location. I was looking up so much to see if they were real places...because it would have been added immediately to my list of places to travel to one day. There was also quite a bit of personal growth and I love that...If you are a fan of contemporary romance, I would highly recommend this one. :)
January 11, 2022
Set on the Italian island of Galatea near Sicily, this tells the story of three women from different times. All three are linked by a delicate bracelet fastened by a seashell. In 2018, Annie goes to the island after deciding to follow her father’s last wishes and travel to Italy to look into his family history. The reader meets Mira (her grandmother) through Annie who lived during the second world war and was great friends with Mimi, a young islander. The stories of these three women are linked together by love and bravery of different sorts. The tale is beautifully told with vivid descriptions and readers will want the answers to their questions just as much as Annie. A delightful WWII romance that you will wish to read in one sitting.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel at my request from Bookouture via NetGalley and this review is my own unbiased opinion.
March 18, 2023
From the start, I struggled with this novel and certainly didn't find it to be the 'heartbreaking and totally unputdownable romance' it claimed to be on the front cover.
I usually enjoy novels that have an intertwining historical and modern-day story but the fact that the reader was taken back to the past via paranormal flashbacks did nothing to win me over. Neither Annie nor Mira were inspirational characters and the ending was just convoluted.
Overall, I found The Italian Island a disappointing read after the Glen Avich series by the same author which I thoroughly enjoyed.
I usually enjoy novels that have an intertwining historical and modern-day story but the fact that the reader was taken back to the past via paranormal flashbacks did nothing to win me over. Neither Annie nor Mira were inspirational characters and the ending was just convoluted.
Overall, I found The Italian Island a disappointing read after the Glen Avich series by the same author which I thoroughly enjoyed.
January 11, 2022
The Italian Island by Daniela Sacerdoti may be a short read but boy does the author pack an awful lot in between the pages of this intriguing story. It tells the tale of a woman’s search to discover the truth behind her heritage, to be more specific she wants to learn just who were her father’s biological parents and how has she a connection to a small island off the coast of Sicily? That island being Galatea, which seems to have magical properties and even though it is a small place, almost in a way separate from the outside world, it draws our main character Annie in as she seeks to reveal answers to the many questions she has running through her head. I initially thought this would be another historical fiction book set in and around World War Two but the war itself plays but a minor role in the overall scheme of things. I was pleasantly surprised how quickly I was drawn into the story and the war itself clearly didn’t need to be the sole focus. The setting, the characters and the plot were all very real, tangible and riveting and I found this to be a great read to kick off my reading for 2022.
The brief prologue introduces us to Violet Goodman who in 1920 gives birth to a girl Mira. She had never wanted another child especially when the baby was a girl and not another boy as was expected of her. The relationship between Violet and Mira was never a good one and the same is said of Annie and her mother in the present day. The concept of the mother/daughter relationship is an important theme throughout the book but I still felt could have done with more exploration and fleshing out. On the island of Galatea whose inhabitants are very closely connected to the sea, a woman gives birth to a baby girl and you wonder just how herself and Mira may or may not go on to have future connections? In America, in the present day, Annie is floundering and all at sea having just lost her beloved father who she cared for. She feels lost and doesn’t know which way to turn. Her world is shattered, her heart is alone and even though she now has freedom she doesn’t know what to do with it.
Annie feels that no one will ever love and understand her as her father had done especially not her mother. A substantial inheritance is left to Annie and she receives a letter from her father urging her to learn more about his real parents. He knew his mother was a Mira Goodman who died in a concentration camp during the war. But beyond that details are non existent.The island of Galatea is the only clue and so Annie sets off on a journey with many surprising twists and turns and in doing so she hopes to fulfil her father’s wishes but at the same time she knows deep down that she needs to do this for herself in order to climb back from the deep chasm she finds herself in.
No doubt about it, the descriptions of the island are what make this book. Reading this book on a cold, wet, miserable winter’s day I was completely transported to an island in the middle of the sea which at first looks barren and very isolating but is in fact lush and filled with vegetation and plants and harsh volcanic rock. The houses cling to rocky outcrops and Annie finds herself arriving at Villa Onda, run by Elvira and Salvo. Salvo is very striking and his former job was an environmental engineer. They are determined to bring the villa back to life. The descriptions of the villa were amazing with so many unique statues and frescos. Mira Goodman once owned the villa and Annie feels an instant connection to the place.
The shadows of the past begin to circle around her and unexpected things happen. There is a paranormal element to this story and usually I would just scoff at things like this and find them surplus to requirements due to their incredibility but here the author really makes it work. I found the supernatural element was woven seamlessly throughout and it was a brilliant way of merging the past with the present. As Annie touches certain objects or glimpses things that aren’t there or even gets a scent of something she is transported back to the past where a fascinating story awaits her and the people of the past have been patiently waiting to share their story. I normally would have found this very far fetched but the author makes everything fit together so well that you truly believe what you are seeing unfold your eyes could well and truly have happened.
The island has a mysterious, magical and other worldly quality that has a deep and lasting impact on Annie. She has to confront her fears but also learns many important life lessons along the way. She is a contemporary girl looking for her place in the world and in order to do so she must reconnect with the past and help those find the justification they so desperately seek. The movement between the past and the present was achieved so seamlessly and the method of doing this although I was sceptical at first I soon came around to the way the author was working. Both strands of the story were very strong but for me as I have such a big fan of history and the past the story set on the island during the war years slightly won out for me. Not in any way to take from the necessity of the modern story and its importance for the book as a whole.
In the sections told from the past, we learn how Mira came to be on the island and how she feels in relation to her family and she slowly starts to learn that they have done to her. She undergoes a reawakening from a fog that has shrouded her and with the help of the island doctor Lupo she learns more about herself and her pace on the island. She casts aside the hurt she has experienced back in England and learns the way of island life and forms a strong bond with a local girl, Mimi, who works at the villa. I loved how the author used the sea and the island tradition of the byssus thread and how the women dove for the shellfish. It helped bind the two major plots of the story together and it was clear the author had done much research and was determined to include this in a satisfying way throughout the story. Mira’s story appeared at just the right junctures throughout when you felt you needed to move away from Annie and I found the scenes featuring Mira to be calming and exploratory.
Although as I have mentioned this is a short book and I found when the climax did arrive and the many layers of lies and half truths began to emerge and become unravelled, it all just happened too quickly. I became slightly confused as to specifics regarding what was going on with Mira and her extended family. I really would have loved a more detailed explanation as I found myself reading between the lines too much and even now I don’t think I have come up with satisfactory answers to some of the questions I had. This is the only slight fault I have found with this book and yes there was an element of disappointment for me as I felt it too abrupt because I had become deeply invested for the overall outcome for both Annie and Mira. But still, pushing this issue aside, The Italian Island is a very good read with an excellent sense of time and place and I really hope Daniela Sacerdoti continues to write many books set in Italy because her love and appreciation for the country really shines through from her writing and makes for a very enjoyable read.
The brief prologue introduces us to Violet Goodman who in 1920 gives birth to a girl Mira. She had never wanted another child especially when the baby was a girl and not another boy as was expected of her. The relationship between Violet and Mira was never a good one and the same is said of Annie and her mother in the present day. The concept of the mother/daughter relationship is an important theme throughout the book but I still felt could have done with more exploration and fleshing out. On the island of Galatea whose inhabitants are very closely connected to the sea, a woman gives birth to a baby girl and you wonder just how herself and Mira may or may not go on to have future connections? In America, in the present day, Annie is floundering and all at sea having just lost her beloved father who she cared for. She feels lost and doesn’t know which way to turn. Her world is shattered, her heart is alone and even though she now has freedom she doesn’t know what to do with it.
Annie feels that no one will ever love and understand her as her father had done especially not her mother. A substantial inheritance is left to Annie and she receives a letter from her father urging her to learn more about his real parents. He knew his mother was a Mira Goodman who died in a concentration camp during the war. But beyond that details are non existent.The island of Galatea is the only clue and so Annie sets off on a journey with many surprising twists and turns and in doing so she hopes to fulfil her father’s wishes but at the same time she knows deep down that she needs to do this for herself in order to climb back from the deep chasm she finds herself in.
No doubt about it, the descriptions of the island are what make this book. Reading this book on a cold, wet, miserable winter’s day I was completely transported to an island in the middle of the sea which at first looks barren and very isolating but is in fact lush and filled with vegetation and plants and harsh volcanic rock. The houses cling to rocky outcrops and Annie finds herself arriving at Villa Onda, run by Elvira and Salvo. Salvo is very striking and his former job was an environmental engineer. They are determined to bring the villa back to life. The descriptions of the villa were amazing with so many unique statues and frescos. Mira Goodman once owned the villa and Annie feels an instant connection to the place.
The shadows of the past begin to circle around her and unexpected things happen. There is a paranormal element to this story and usually I would just scoff at things like this and find them surplus to requirements due to their incredibility but here the author really makes it work. I found the supernatural element was woven seamlessly throughout and it was a brilliant way of merging the past with the present. As Annie touches certain objects or glimpses things that aren’t there or even gets a scent of something she is transported back to the past where a fascinating story awaits her and the people of the past have been patiently waiting to share their story. I normally would have found this very far fetched but the author makes everything fit together so well that you truly believe what you are seeing unfold your eyes could well and truly have happened.
The island has a mysterious, magical and other worldly quality that has a deep and lasting impact on Annie. She has to confront her fears but also learns many important life lessons along the way. She is a contemporary girl looking for her place in the world and in order to do so she must reconnect with the past and help those find the justification they so desperately seek. The movement between the past and the present was achieved so seamlessly and the method of doing this although I was sceptical at first I soon came around to the way the author was working. Both strands of the story were very strong but for me as I have such a big fan of history and the past the story set on the island during the war years slightly won out for me. Not in any way to take from the necessity of the modern story and its importance for the book as a whole.
In the sections told from the past, we learn how Mira came to be on the island and how she feels in relation to her family and she slowly starts to learn that they have done to her. She undergoes a reawakening from a fog that has shrouded her and with the help of the island doctor Lupo she learns more about herself and her pace on the island. She casts aside the hurt she has experienced back in England and learns the way of island life and forms a strong bond with a local girl, Mimi, who works at the villa. I loved how the author used the sea and the island tradition of the byssus thread and how the women dove for the shellfish. It helped bind the two major plots of the story together and it was clear the author had done much research and was determined to include this in a satisfying way throughout the story. Mira’s story appeared at just the right junctures throughout when you felt you needed to move away from Annie and I found the scenes featuring Mira to be calming and exploratory.
Although as I have mentioned this is a short book and I found when the climax did arrive and the many layers of lies and half truths began to emerge and become unravelled, it all just happened too quickly. I became slightly confused as to specifics regarding what was going on with Mira and her extended family. I really would have loved a more detailed explanation as I found myself reading between the lines too much and even now I don’t think I have come up with satisfactory answers to some of the questions I had. This is the only slight fault I have found with this book and yes there was an element of disappointment for me as I felt it too abrupt because I had become deeply invested for the overall outcome for both Annie and Mira. But still, pushing this issue aside, The Italian Island is a very good read with an excellent sense of time and place and I really hope Daniela Sacerdoti continues to write many books set in Italy because her love and appreciation for the country really shines through from her writing and makes for a very enjoyable read.
December 16, 2021
“My darling girl don’t make the same mistakes as I did. Now that my life is coming to an end, take your grandmother’s bracelet, unlock the secret of our family history, and discover who you are.”
After her father dies, Annie embarks on solving a family mystery. Her father was adopted and knows little about his birth mother except that she died in childbirth in a concentration camp during WW2. Twenty-year-old Annie leaves home and heads for the Sicilian island of Galatea where she will uncover her grandmother’s identity and learn about her wartime sacrifice. A truly unusual and highly imaginative narrative unfolds featuring 3 women who are linked across time and space by a bracelet.
Part historical romance, part mystery, and part magic, Sacerdoti’s latest strays from her beloved Italian wartime stories that I’ve come to love and anticipate. For those who love contemporary fantasy, you’ll be swept away by the mystical moments. For those who love romance, you��ll love reading about Salvo! For those who love a mystery, you’ll love solving this one as it echoes through time. However, those expecting another of Sacerdoti’s trademark novels may be disappointed. The wartime history lover in me was left unfulfilled.
Beautifully written with vivid descriptions and full of mystical elements, this unique read explores the lengths some will go to protect those they love. Sacerdoti highlights the power that love has to save us all.
Congratulations to the graphic design team for a fantastic cover!
Publishes Jan. 11, 2022.
I was gifted this advance copy by Daniela Sacerdoti, Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
After her father dies, Annie embarks on solving a family mystery. Her father was adopted and knows little about his birth mother except that she died in childbirth in a concentration camp during WW2. Twenty-year-old Annie leaves home and heads for the Sicilian island of Galatea where she will uncover her grandmother’s identity and learn about her wartime sacrifice. A truly unusual and highly imaginative narrative unfolds featuring 3 women who are linked across time and space by a bracelet.
Part historical romance, part mystery, and part magic, Sacerdoti’s latest strays from her beloved Italian wartime stories that I’ve come to love and anticipate. For those who love contemporary fantasy, you’ll be swept away by the mystical moments. For those who love romance, you��ll love reading about Salvo! For those who love a mystery, you’ll love solving this one as it echoes through time. However, those expecting another of Sacerdoti’s trademark novels may be disappointed. The wartime history lover in me was left unfulfilled.
Beautifully written with vivid descriptions and full of mystical elements, this unique read explores the lengths some will go to protect those they love. Sacerdoti highlights the power that love has to save us all.
Congratulations to the graphic design team for a fantastic cover!
Publishes Jan. 11, 2022.
I was gifted this advance copy by Daniela Sacerdoti, Bookouture and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
January 13, 2022
Set upon a quest to find her roots on behalf of her late father, Anna finds herself on the Italian Island of Galatea. Mystery and mystique become, at first, a surprizing and somewhat scary aura surrounding her but later, she welcomes the episodes of visions which reveal what she wishes to know. In this unfolding ancestory tale of her father's immediate connections, Anna meets Mira, Mimi, Lupo and others, eventually discovering who had been her real grandmother.
The culture of the sea and the romances that bloomed, are intertwined in the lives of the Islanders flavoring the tale and keeping the reader following with great interest. The events are staged as WWII stretches its dark shadows, even to this innocuous looking island. I have been astonished and stunned at the grips of fear, the twists and turns, discovering, along with Anna, the astonishing revelation.
I enjoyed the story and believe other readers of Historical Fiction and Romance will not be disappointed. The story has plot, interesting cultural reveals, as the past and present hitch themselves together.
~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~
December 2021
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.
The culture of the sea and the romances that bloomed, are intertwined in the lives of the Islanders flavoring the tale and keeping the reader following with great interest. The events are staged as WWII stretches its dark shadows, even to this innocuous looking island. I have been astonished and stunned at the grips of fear, the twists and turns, discovering, along with Anna, the astonishing revelation.
I enjoyed the story and believe other readers of Historical Fiction and Romance will not be disappointed. The story has plot, interesting cultural reveals, as the past and present hitch themselves together.
~Eunice C., Reviewer/Blogger~
December 2021
Disclaimer: This is my honest opinion based on the review copy sent by NetGalley and the publisher.
December 13, 2021
The Italian Island is a book set both in the modern-day and during the war. Annie has recently lost her father and at his request, travels to the island of Galatea off Italy to find out more about his mother who died in childbirth and he never knew much about. As soon as she arrives she feels that the island has a story to tell her and she begins to have visions of what happened in the past.
This is a bit of a paranormal story with people able to see that past as well as the idea that the women of the island have a special spirituality that allows them skills such as diving for the shellfish that they turn into thread.
Although it's quite unusual in the way that it's told, it doesn't detract from how you are drawn into Annie or Mira's world and what they have experienced. This is a story that takes the idea of the actions of the past having an influence on what happens to the descendants of these people. And although Annie wants to find out what's happened, there's an idea that there is an inevitability to her being there and finding out what happens.
I don't really want to say much more about what happens, as I don't want to give away spoilers. It is a great read and I really enjoyed following Annie and Mira's life.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
This is a bit of a paranormal story with people able to see that past as well as the idea that the women of the island have a special spirituality that allows them skills such as diving for the shellfish that they turn into thread.
Although it's quite unusual in the way that it's told, it doesn't detract from how you are drawn into Annie or Mira's world and what they have experienced. This is a story that takes the idea of the actions of the past having an influence on what happens to the descendants of these people. And although Annie wants to find out what's happened, there's an idea that there is an inevitability to her being there and finding out what happens.
I don't really want to say much more about what happens, as I don't want to give away spoilers. It is a great read and I really enjoyed following Annie and Mira's life.
I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own and given voluntarily.
December 11, 2021
4.5/5 rounded up to 5
I absolutely loved this book. The plot of it was so interesting and different than anything I've read before. It included different aspects of historical fiction, mystery, and some "magical" elements that all came together to build an amazing story. I liked that romance was involved, but it wasn't a major part of the plot and it didn't take away from the main storyline. However, the romance still felt natural and not forced.
I enjoyed the characters of Annie and Mira and reading about where they came from and how they had to change their perspectives to see the island differently. I finished this book in one day because I wanted to know what was going to happen and how things would wrap up. The reason I gave 4.5 instead of 5 is because I think it wrapped up nicely, but quickly. I wish we saw a bit more of the characters after realizing what had really happened. Besides that, this book was perfect. It made me feel so many emotions, good and bad.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for an ARC of this book! All opinions are my own
I absolutely loved this book. The plot of it was so interesting and different than anything I've read before. It included different aspects of historical fiction, mystery, and some "magical" elements that all came together to build an amazing story. I liked that romance was involved, but it wasn't a major part of the plot and it didn't take away from the main storyline. However, the romance still felt natural and not forced.
I enjoyed the characters of Annie and Mira and reading about where they came from and how they had to change their perspectives to see the island differently. I finished this book in one day because I wanted to know what was going to happen and how things would wrap up. The reason I gave 4.5 instead of 5 is because I think it wrapped up nicely, but quickly. I wish we saw a bit more of the characters after realizing what had really happened. Besides that, this book was perfect. It made me feel so many emotions, good and bad.
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for an ARC of this book! All opinions are my own
January 12, 2022
A beautiful location and one that hasn't been overused in the past. In fact, the island and more specifically the sea, are almost characters in their own right. I love dual timelines set abroad and this book delivers on both.
Having two characters with similar names was confusing but I'm guessing this was deliberate. Read on and you'll find out why.
Both the past and present stories are moving. I did find the way Annie reconnects with the past rather hard to swallow but the writing more than makes up for any niggles.
Loved the leitmotif of the sea and how the stories came full circle in the end.
Having two characters with similar names was confusing but I'm guessing this was deliberate. Read on and you'll find out why.
Both the past and present stories are moving. I did find the way Annie reconnects with the past rather hard to swallow but the writing more than makes up for any niggles.
Loved the leitmotif of the sea and how the stories came full circle in the end.
Read
December 5, 2021Thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the early read.
July 26, 2023
Mira’s story told in visions didn’t work for me.
June 22, 2022
The Italian Island is by Danielle Sacerdoti. The book is set on the small island of Galatea, one of the small islands off the coast of Sicily. As she describes them, the small islands are like stepping stones between Africa and Italy.
Life Is hard on the island as there is no drinking water. All water is brought in on rowboats by the men of the island. All provisions which cannot be grown on the island are also brought in. There are no cars allowed on the island and the only transportation is by walking or riding donkeys. Living on the island are a group of related women who comprise the Ayala women. They dive beneath the waves in search of specific shellfish which, when combed, releases a thin thread. The thread is specifically loomed into a linen like material and the thread is used to embroidery the linen and make it into bracelets. Only certain women are allowed to dive and to work with the thread.
At the top of the island is Villa Onde. It was once owned by a Russian woman and the treasures left in the villa, as well as the frescoes, remained in the Villa. The paintings and frescoes could be dated back 300 years. The Russian woman had done some updating until she mysteriously left. Mira Goodman’s father had bought the villa and sent his daughter to live here. She had disgraced the family and so was banished from the family to this Villa. Eventually, it was learned that Mira Goodman, a Jew, died in a Nazi concentration camp leaving only a bracelet, a note, her identity papers, and her newborn son. He was adopted and never traced his biological parents. Upon his death, he suggested that his daughter Annie go to Italy and try to trace his parent and find herself.
Having inherited a fortune from her father, Annie left for Galatea to try to trace her family and find the information her father had wanted. Annie also left home to be separated from her mother who made it apparent that she did not love or accept Annie as her daughter. She constantly belittled her and bullied her. So, the Annie who arrived on Galatea was unloved and definitely not confident of herself.
Will she be able to find out who her father’s parents were and in the process find herself. Villa Onde has a mysterious effect on Annie. She is taken into the past and sees what happened to Mira Goodman through Mira’s eyes. Will she find what she is looking for and more?
This book is fantastic and is very hard to put down.
Life Is hard on the island as there is no drinking water. All water is brought in on rowboats by the men of the island. All provisions which cannot be grown on the island are also brought in. There are no cars allowed on the island and the only transportation is by walking or riding donkeys. Living on the island are a group of related women who comprise the Ayala women. They dive beneath the waves in search of specific shellfish which, when combed, releases a thin thread. The thread is specifically loomed into a linen like material and the thread is used to embroidery the linen and make it into bracelets. Only certain women are allowed to dive and to work with the thread.
At the top of the island is Villa Onde. It was once owned by a Russian woman and the treasures left in the villa, as well as the frescoes, remained in the Villa. The paintings and frescoes could be dated back 300 years. The Russian woman had done some updating until she mysteriously left. Mira Goodman’s father had bought the villa and sent his daughter to live here. She had disgraced the family and so was banished from the family to this Villa. Eventually, it was learned that Mira Goodman, a Jew, died in a Nazi concentration camp leaving only a bracelet, a note, her identity papers, and her newborn son. He was adopted and never traced his biological parents. Upon his death, he suggested that his daughter Annie go to Italy and try to trace his parent and find herself.
Having inherited a fortune from her father, Annie left for Galatea to try to trace her family and find the information her father had wanted. Annie also left home to be separated from her mother who made it apparent that she did not love or accept Annie as her daughter. She constantly belittled her and bullied her. So, the Annie who arrived on Galatea was unloved and definitely not confident of herself.
Will she be able to find out who her father’s parents were and in the process find herself. Villa Onde has a mysterious effect on Annie. She is taken into the past and sees what happened to Mira Goodman through Mira’s eyes. Will she find what she is looking for and more?
This book is fantastic and is very hard to put down.
May 19, 2022
The Italian Island was advertised as "An absolutely heart-wrenching page-turner about how the catastrophic consequences of war can echo through generations, and the power that true love has to save us all"
This is another time-split novel that tells the stories of two different girls during two different time-frames. When Annie's beloved father dies he leaves her a letter telling her not to make the same mistakes that he did and to go find her roots on a tiny Italian island. The only thing she knows about her grandmother is that she died in a concentration camp after having given birth to Annie's father. When she arrives on the island she meets Salvo, her landlord and off-course prospective love interest, and with his aid she starts discovering the island and its history. While doing so she has a couple of visions in which she discovers her grandmothers history. In the mean time Salvo and Annie are getting on really well and their romance develops into something deeper.
It is a really nice read and although it is advertised as a war story the war really stays at a far distance during the majority of the book although there is a surprising plot turn at the end of the book. Well, if you read carefully, you might see it coming as did I.
This is another time-split novel that tells the stories of two different girls during two different time-frames. When Annie's beloved father dies he leaves her a letter telling her not to make the same mistakes that he did and to go find her roots on a tiny Italian island. The only thing she knows about her grandmother is that she died in a concentration camp after having given birth to Annie's father. When she arrives on the island she meets Salvo, her landlord and off-course prospective love interest, and with his aid she starts discovering the island and its history. While doing so she has a couple of visions in which she discovers her grandmothers history. In the mean time Salvo and Annie are getting on really well and their romance develops into something deeper.
It is a really nice read and although it is advertised as a war story the war really stays at a far distance during the majority of the book although there is a surprising plot turn at the end of the book. Well, if you read carefully, you might see it coming as did I.
April 2, 2025
Lovely book
After her dear father passes away, Annie goes to Galatea to find out about her grandmother. She meets Salvo and he helps her piece together the mystery of what happened during the 2nd world war
But she also has help in the form of visions and dreams - as if she's living the life of Mira back in the 40s when she 1st arrived on the island and becomes close friends with Mimi. There's small parallels between the lives of Annie (in the present time) and Mira's in the 40s.
Spoiler! It turns out that Mimi was her grandmother not Mira!
I did enjoy the book but you don't get to find out what happened to Mira and lupo
After her dear father passes away, Annie goes to Galatea to find out about her grandmother. She meets Salvo and he helps her piece together the mystery of what happened during the 2nd world war
But she also has help in the form of visions and dreams - as if she's living the life of Mira back in the 40s when she 1st arrived on the island and becomes close friends with Mimi. There's small parallels between the lives of Annie (in the present time) and Mira's in the 40s.
Spoiler! It turns out that Mimi was her grandmother not Mira!
I did enjoy the book but you don't get to find out what happened to Mira and lupo
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 21, 2022
Very Interesting story line
I found this book to have a very interesting storyline which kept me on my toes. But this book was difficult for me to follow. Maybe if the two main female characters had not had such similar first names, it may have been easier to follow! Thank you 💖
I found this book to have a very interesting storyline which kept me on my toes. But this book was difficult for me to follow. Maybe if the two main female characters had not had such similar first names, it may have been easier to follow! Thank you 💖
July 27, 2025
“An absolutely heartbreaking and totally unputdownable World War II romance” … who wrote that?? 🤣 The woven in parts about the war are only within the last 20 pages of the book. The grammatical errors. Don’t even get me started on the quotation marks. 🤦🏻♀️
The story line has so much potential…. 😭 This is probably a 1.5.
The story line has so much potential…. 😭 This is probably a 1.5.
July 18, 2022
WOW!!
Reading this book had me intrigued, I felt like I was with the people watching them as their lives changed over time. It’s been ages since I read a book like this! I couldn’t stop reading until the very last page. It truly is a book I want to read again until 3:30 am.
Reading this book had me intrigued, I felt like I was with the people watching them as their lives changed over time. It’s been ages since I read a book like this! I couldn’t stop reading until the very last page. It truly is a book I want to read again until 3:30 am.
October 27, 2022
Entertaining
I enjoyed this book very much although there were times that I became confused as to the true identity of Mira and MiMi. If you believe in fairy tales and true love, this is a book that you will enjoy.
I enjoyed this book very much although there were times that I became confused as to the true identity of Mira and MiMi. If you believe in fairy tales and true love, this is a book that you will enjoy.
May 25, 2022
Mooi boek
Dubbele tijdlijn , boeiend geschreven ,lastig weg te leggen dus snel uit gelezen
Dubbele tijdlijn , boeiend geschreven ,lastig weg te leggen dus snel uit gelezen
May 5, 2023
The Italian Island
My mother was from Sicily so I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is heart warming and a joy to read about the wonderful people that live there.
My mother was from Sicily so I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is heart warming and a joy to read about the wonderful people that live there.
May 22, 2023
Enjoyed the story and characters as the mystery of family history unfolded.
June 17, 2023
audiobook format
Displaying 1 - 30 of 61 reviews