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California Sister
A sister’s love versus a cruel fate. A story of fierce love and heartbreaking grief.
Claire Waters, an Italian mystery writer living in Los Angeles, rushes to Italy after her older sister's devastating brain-hemorrhage, determined to restore her health—or help her die with dignity.
Claire is a gritty decision-maker, a lone wolf who values freedom above all else. Her sister, Ondina—now on the edge of death or living a severely limited life—is wise, cautious, and sociable. They may be different, but have remained close despite the distance. Claire is faced with a dilemma impossible to solve. Would her non-verbal sister want to go on struggling, damaged as she is, or end her suffering?
Forsaking her career, Claire hardly leaves her sister’s side, refusing to give up the hope of healing. It takes an exhausting and lonely year for stubborn Claire to listen to her silent sister.
Claire Waters, an Italian mystery writer living in Los Angeles, rushes to Italy after her older sister's devastating brain-hemorrhage, determined to restore her health—or help her die with dignity.
Claire is a gritty decision-maker, a lone wolf who values freedom above all else. Her sister, Ondina—now on the edge of death or living a severely limited life—is wise, cautious, and sociable. They may be different, but have remained close despite the distance. Claire is faced with a dilemma impossible to solve. Would her non-verbal sister want to go on struggling, damaged as she is, or end her suffering?
Forsaking her career, Claire hardly leaves her sister’s side, refusing to give up the hope of healing. It takes an exhausting and lonely year for stubborn Claire to listen to her silent sister.
324 pages, Paperback
Published September 15, 2022
13 people are currently reading
2129 people want to read
About the author
Gloria Mattioni
8 books74 followersGloria Mattioni is an award-winning writer, speaker and documentary producer. She was born in Milan, Italy, and dreamed of being a pirate, an astronaut and an explorer. She has been an investigative journalist, reporter, editor and magazine writer. She's also a globe-trotter, surfer and martial arts practitioner. In 1992, she moved to Los Angeles--a place she loves for its unique geography in the middle of ocean, desert and mountains.
Mattioni is the author of "California Sister", published September 15, 2022, (Atmosphere Press), "Reckless-The Outrageous Lives of Nine Kick-Ass Women" (Seal Press) and the indie "Dakota Warrior-The Story of James R. Weddell." She previously published in Italy a novel, "Con Altri Occhi", and three non-fiction books , "Guerriero Dakota", "Wild Women", and "La Tribù dei Mangiatori di Sogni."
She's a member of the Authors' Guild, Women's Fiction Writers Association, Women Writing the West.
Mattioni is the author of "California Sister", published September 15, 2022, (Atmosphere Press), "Reckless-The Outrageous Lives of Nine Kick-Ass Women" (Seal Press) and the indie "Dakota Warrior-The Story of James R. Weddell." She previously published in Italy a novel, "Con Altri Occhi", and three non-fiction books , "Guerriero Dakota", "Wild Women", and "La Tribù dei Mangiatori di Sogni."
She's a member of the Authors' Guild, Women's Fiction Writers Association, Women Writing the West.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
June 5, 2022
A beautifully written, lyrical novel, California Sister portrays a younger sister’s desperate and determined attempt to save her older sister who, sadly, seems from the start to be beyond hope of returning to normal following a severe brain aneurysm. One can’t help but cheer her on as she refuses to give up hope for her sister’s recovery, searching for every possible means of medical intervention. But at what cost to her suffering sister? A deeply-moving story that makes your heart ache and makes you hope that you will never be faced with such difficult choices regarding someone you love.
JoAnn Catania author of A Scarcity of Virgins.
Thanks to the author for a copy of the novel in advance.
JoAnn Catania author of A Scarcity of Virgins.
Thanks to the author for a copy of the novel in advance.
June 1, 2022
“Fluidly transitioning between past to present and back again, Gloria Mattioni pits the silent desire of one sister against the needs of the other in a story that is both breathtakingly beautiful yet fearless in flaunting the ugly realities of life and death.
California Sister will force you to think hard about who has the right to choose.”
California Sister will force you to think hard about who has the right to choose.”
June 1, 2022
I feel privileged to have the opportunity to read an advanced copy of California Sister by Gloria Mattioni. I was struck by how quickly the story came together within the first few chapters. The author's ability to move between the sisters' stories kept me curious, wanting to finish the page so I could see what was around the corner. However, this isn't a book to read quickly, if you do, you will miss out on the beautiful descriptions which makes the story come to life. At times I felt like I was in the apartment in Bergamo or walking the halls of the hospital towards the TERAPIA INTENSIV and then on to Lake Como.
I was moved by the emotions in California Sister and didn't want it to end.
I will definitely be reading Gloria's other books!
I was moved by the emotions in California Sister and didn't want it to end.
I will definitely be reading Gloria's other books!
October 6, 2022
Stories about sisters always hit me hard, but this one really rocked me.
Ondina’s brain injury is a tragic and life-altering event. Now Claire must decide to upend her life and career to be by Ondina’s side as her advocate, her support, her voice, and, yes, her sister.
The narrative delves into not just the sacrificial love of sisters but also the raw, honest emotions of a caretaker of the disabled, plus the topic of dying with dignity.
Although Claire is the narrator, speechless Ondina is given a voice through letters, her journal, and even lyrics she had written before her accident. Because of this, you get a chance to know both sisters, which makes this story even more personal and heartbreaking. This is a story I will think about for some time.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @gloriamattioni for a spot on tour and a gifted copy.
Ondina’s brain injury is a tragic and life-altering event. Now Claire must decide to upend her life and career to be by Ondina’s side as her advocate, her support, her voice, and, yes, her sister.
The narrative delves into not just the sacrificial love of sisters but also the raw, honest emotions of a caretaker of the disabled, plus the topic of dying with dignity.
Although Claire is the narrator, speechless Ondina is given a voice through letters, her journal, and even lyrics she had written before her accident. Because of this, you get a chance to know both sisters, which makes this story even more personal and heartbreaking. This is a story I will think about for some time.
Thank you @suzyapprovedbooktours and @gloriamattioni for a spot on tour and a gifted copy.
June 26, 2022
This is a serious book that defines a sister’s love, duty, and despair - to bear the unbearable: Mattioni’s beloved sister - in the peak of life and health - is felled by a brain hemorrhage after cooking one evening for friends in Bergamo, Italy. Mattioni covers the shock, the disbelief, the fury, the sadness and the refusal to accept checked out “specialists,” dismissive treatment and a hopeless diagnosis. She also has to come to grips with unknowing the unknowable - does her sister have any cognition left to revive?
She shows us what clinging to hope intertwined with fear and loss feels like as she tries various treatments for her sister. It’s honest, it’s raw, and it calls to mind Joan Didion’s work - “The Year of Magical Thinking.” In Mattioni’s case her brand of magical thinking enables her to endure a year in which she abruptly left her life in Los Angeles to fight for her sister’s survival in Milan. The two cities mirror the siblings differing personalities and lives.
In writing this memoir, Mattioni bravely and honestly explores the extent and limits of love - hers as well as her sister’s many friends, the intractable nature of familial burdens, and the exquisite knife’s edge of the morality of excruciating choices around every corner. She doesn’t flinch from examining the messy emotional fallout or the ever-present voice in her head: To what end? Whom is she relentlessly, sometimes obstinately doing everything for? Is the answer subsumed in the very nature of love?
She shows us what clinging to hope intertwined with fear and loss feels like as she tries various treatments for her sister. It’s honest, it’s raw, and it calls to mind Joan Didion’s work - “The Year of Magical Thinking.” In Mattioni’s case her brand of magical thinking enables her to endure a year in which she abruptly left her life in Los Angeles to fight for her sister’s survival in Milan. The two cities mirror the siblings differing personalities and lives.
In writing this memoir, Mattioni bravely and honestly explores the extent and limits of love - hers as well as her sister’s many friends, the intractable nature of familial burdens, and the exquisite knife’s edge of the morality of excruciating choices around every corner. She doesn’t flinch from examining the messy emotional fallout or the ever-present voice in her head: To what end? Whom is she relentlessly, sometimes obstinately doing everything for? Is the answer subsumed in the very nature of love?
October 8, 2022
This was a touching novel about two sisters continents apart, but that love and bond for one another is always there. Claire gets a call that no sibling ever wants to get, her sister collapsed, was rushed to the hospital and things are not looking too good. Getting on the first flight she can, Claire drops everything including her career, and heads to her sisters side. Having to fight red tape and other countries laws, Claire has been put in a tough situation and must makes some very hard decisions for her sister. A decision no one ever wants to make. Let her live in this coma state and hope she comes out of it, or take her off of everything. This story really was written deep and I know will touch many who have been in a similar situation. Being a sibling of many sisters myself, this was a touching novel to read. Thank you to Suzy Approved Book Tours for the invite and the author for the free novel.
October 6, 2022
Thank you to @suzysapprovedbooktour and @gloria for my copy of this beautifully written book. It is a breathtaking lyrical tale of a younger sister trying to save her older sister. The plot and descriptions are written beautifully keeping the reader wanting to turn the pages. Mattoni is able to move between the two sisters effortlessly and the plot unfolds quickly within the first few chapters.
Goodreads Synopsis
A sister’s love versus a cruel fate. A story of fierce love and heartbreaking grief.
Claire Waters, an Italian mystery writer living in Los Angeles, rushes to Italy after her older sister's devastating brain-hemorrhage, determined to restore her health—or help her die with dignity.
Claire is a gritty decision-maker, a lone wolf who values freedom above all else. Her sister, Ondina—now on the edge of death or living a severely limited life—is wise, cautious, and sociable. They may be different, but have remained close despite the distance. Claire is faced with a dilemma impossible to solve. Would her non-verbal sister want to go on struggling, damaged as she is, or end her suffering?
Forsaking her career, Claire hardly leaves her sister’s side, refusing to give up the hope of healing. It takes an exhausting and lonely year for stubborn Claire to listen to her silent sister.
Read this if you like:
A book that takes you on an emotional journey
A book about siblings
Beautiful lyrical writing
Goodreads Synopsis
A sister’s love versus a cruel fate. A story of fierce love and heartbreaking grief.
Claire Waters, an Italian mystery writer living in Los Angeles, rushes to Italy after her older sister's devastating brain-hemorrhage, determined to restore her health—or help her die with dignity.
Claire is a gritty decision-maker, a lone wolf who values freedom above all else. Her sister, Ondina—now on the edge of death or living a severely limited life—is wise, cautious, and sociable. They may be different, but have remained close despite the distance. Claire is faced with a dilemma impossible to solve. Would her non-verbal sister want to go on struggling, damaged as she is, or end her suffering?
Forsaking her career, Claire hardly leaves her sister’s side, refusing to give up the hope of healing. It takes an exhausting and lonely year for stubborn Claire to listen to her silent sister.
Read this if you like:
A book that takes you on an emotional journey
A book about siblings
Beautiful lyrical writing
September 13, 2022
Gloria Mattioni, the author of “California Sister” has written an emotional, thought-provoking, and memorable novel. The Genres for this book are Sisters Fiction, Family Life Fiction, and Contemporary Literature and Fiction. The author describes the characters as complex and complicated. I appreciate that the author discusses important topics such as Death with Dignity, the importance of family, friends, pets, love, and hope. Gloria Mattioni also describes the importance of writing, communication, music, and art.
Claire and Ondina are two sisters brought up in a dysfunctional family. When the girls are young, they make a promise to each other. Claire moves to California and is an author writing mystery novels. Ondina lives in Italy and has a special group of friends. Ondina liked to write songs. Distance made getting together more difficult.
When Ondina collapses and is put in a medically induced coma, Claire goes to Italy to make important decisions. The doctors inform Claire that Ondina’s medical prognosis is not promising. Claire is determined and believes in her heart that Ondina is strong and will overcome obstacles.
Told through Claire’s voice and Ondina’s thoughts, the reader is able to see the love and emotional distress that this is causing. Claire will always remember the promises two young sisters make to one another. Is love enough to make the right choice? I would highly recommend this poignant and heartbreaking novel.
Claire and Ondina are two sisters brought up in a dysfunctional family. When the girls are young, they make a promise to each other. Claire moves to California and is an author writing mystery novels. Ondina lives in Italy and has a special group of friends. Ondina liked to write songs. Distance made getting together more difficult.
When Ondina collapses and is put in a medically induced coma, Claire goes to Italy to make important decisions. The doctors inform Claire that Ondina’s medical prognosis is not promising. Claire is determined and believes in her heart that Ondina is strong and will overcome obstacles.
Told through Claire’s voice and Ondina’s thoughts, the reader is able to see the love and emotional distress that this is causing. Claire will always remember the promises two young sisters make to one another. Is love enough to make the right choice? I would highly recommend this poignant and heartbreaking novel.
July 25, 2022
I was very lucky to have the chance to read an advance copy of California Sister. Normally it takes me at least two weeks to read a book of this length, but I was so engrossed with the story of the brave Los Angeles-native Claire and her sister Ondina living in Italy that I couldn't put it down and stayed up until the early hours of morning one weekend until I reached the dramatic conclusion.
When Ondina suffers a sudden brain hemorrhage, Claire drops everything and rushes to be by her side in Italy. As her sister lays in a coma, Claire is her tireless advocate. She fights to give Ondina the best care possible, which is often at odds with what the medical doctors have in mind. Mattioni's beautiful writing takes us inside the worlds of both sisters. We get to know and love them both.
An emotional book with many twists and turns, I recommend it highly!
Maggie Arana
Author of "Stop Calling Him Honey"
When Ondina suffers a sudden brain hemorrhage, Claire drops everything and rushes to be by her side in Italy. As her sister lays in a coma, Claire is her tireless advocate. She fights to give Ondina the best care possible, which is often at odds with what the medical doctors have in mind. Mattioni's beautiful writing takes us inside the worlds of both sisters. We get to know and love them both.
An emotional book with many twists and turns, I recommend it highly!
Maggie Arana
Author of "Stop Calling Him Honey"
June 20, 2022
California Sister is a beautifully written but gut-wrenching story of two sisters who are very different in character, separated worlds apart (California and Italy), yet very much connected in heart and soul.
The California sister Claire is a take-charge sort, adventurous – even risk-taking, and loves trying new things. When her older sister Ondina suffers a catastrophic brain aneurysm, Claire drops plans for the launch of her new novel and rushes to Italy to be with her. Doctors there have already performed highly invasive brain surgery despite believing that Ondina will not survive. Claire is determined to do everything possible to ensure her sister’s recovery, against all odds. But she worries whether she’s doing the right thing, what Ondina would want, recalling their having seen a relative in a vegetative state when they were kids and vowing to each other to never submit to such a fate.
Mattioni takes the reader on a sensory-rich journey through parts of Italy as we share Claire’s angst over her sister’s well-being, along with chapters in the “voice” of Ondina who cannot speak or do much of anything, trapped in her useless shell, resisting and protesting what is being forced upon her. Claire ultimately transforms into a more connected, sensitive and sensible person, exercising true care rather than pursuing her idea of victory. This story highlights the difficult choices that must be make in end-of-life situations.
The California sister Claire is a take-charge sort, adventurous – even risk-taking, and loves trying new things. When her older sister Ondina suffers a catastrophic brain aneurysm, Claire drops plans for the launch of her new novel and rushes to Italy to be with her. Doctors there have already performed highly invasive brain surgery despite believing that Ondina will not survive. Claire is determined to do everything possible to ensure her sister’s recovery, against all odds. But she worries whether she’s doing the right thing, what Ondina would want, recalling their having seen a relative in a vegetative state when they were kids and vowing to each other to never submit to such a fate.
Mattioni takes the reader on a sensory-rich journey through parts of Italy as we share Claire’s angst over her sister’s well-being, along with chapters in the “voice” of Ondina who cannot speak or do much of anything, trapped in her useless shell, resisting and protesting what is being forced upon her. Claire ultimately transforms into a more connected, sensitive and sensible person, exercising true care rather than pursuing her idea of victory. This story highlights the difficult choices that must be make in end-of-life situations.
Read
October 11, 2022California Sister is literary fiction filled with in-depth and poetic descriptions.My first tip is don't be misled by the cover. Although it contains elements from the book (bougainvillea and the two sisters), it does not capture the literary tone of a novel which circles around a journey of grief and letting go.
Claire, born Chiara, is living in Los Angeles. She's an avid surfer and a successful writer of a popular mystery series. The novel is set in motion when she gets a shocking phone call that her sister in Italy, Ondina, has suffered a brain hemorrhage and is in a coma.
Claire travels back to Bergamo to be with her sister, determined to do whatever it takes to save her, no matter whether it is what her sister would have wanted.
The novel sometimes falls back in time to their childhood memories, and at times is told from the point of view of Ondina, who cannot talk. California Sister has the emotional depth and lush feel of a memoir.
Written in a style that is full of poetry, the novel is filled with carefully constructed descriptions of Italy and Los Angeles. With musings on the US versus Italian life experience, and the use of language full of color, California Sister will appeal to those who enjoy well-crafted literary fiction.
Claire, born Chiara, is living in Los Angeles. She's an avid surfer and a successful writer of a popular mystery series. The novel is set in motion when she gets a shocking phone call that her sister in Italy, Ondina, has suffered a brain hemorrhage and is in a coma.
Claire travels back to Bergamo to be with her sister, determined to do whatever it takes to save her, no matter whether it is what her sister would have wanted.
The novel sometimes falls back in time to their childhood memories, and at times is told from the point of view of Ondina, who cannot talk. California Sister has the emotional depth and lush feel of a memoir.
Written in a style that is full of poetry, the novel is filled with carefully constructed descriptions of Italy and Los Angeles. With musings on the US versus Italian life experience, and the use of language full of color, California Sister will appeal to those who enjoy well-crafted literary fiction.
August 6, 2022
California Sister is a vibrant story of the unique perspective of one sister's selfless journey to bring back her older sister from the depth of illness. Leaving everything behind, we see Claire's strength, dedication and the ongoing dilemma of staying true to a promise made years ago.
Gloria Mattioni uses vivid descriptions, pulling us into the worlds of Claire and Ondina with all our senses in the heart of California and Italy. The writing is brave and honest, showcasing a side of illness and life that most shy away from.
This book left me thinking about my own mortality and how far I would go for the ones I hold most dear. Heartbreaking at times, this story is a triumph of love; the portrayal of a connection so deep and yet is desperately being held together by a thread.
California Sister will leave an imprint on your heart long after the last page is turned.
Gloria Mattioni uses vivid descriptions, pulling us into the worlds of Claire and Ondina with all our senses in the heart of California and Italy. The writing is brave and honest, showcasing a side of illness and life that most shy away from.
This book left me thinking about my own mortality and how far I would go for the ones I hold most dear. Heartbreaking at times, this story is a triumph of love; the portrayal of a connection so deep and yet is desperately being held together by a thread.
California Sister will leave an imprint on your heart long after the last page is turned.
July 26, 2022
What an absolute delight!
As a busy mother of three with a full-time job, I rarely have time to read, so I treasure the times when I find a book that can give me so much. This book made me laugh, think, and feel deeply. When reading California Sister I found myself looking forward to going to bed at night so I could read. about Claire and her family. For me it was a journey inwards, but also to one of my favorite countries, Italy.
The writing is witty, interesting and profound, and I found myself making mental notes about being a daughter whilst engrossing myself in some of the challenges that Claire faced when her sister Ondina got really sick. Family relations are international and Mattoni depicts the challenges of being an expat daughter with her own life with expertise and sensitivity.
It was a moving and profound reading experience and I encourage everyone to read this book!
I want to extend my thanks to the author for a free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
As a busy mother of three with a full-time job, I rarely have time to read, so I treasure the times when I find a book that can give me so much. This book made me laugh, think, and feel deeply. When reading California Sister I found myself looking forward to going to bed at night so I could read. about Claire and her family. For me it was a journey inwards, but also to one of my favorite countries, Italy.
The writing is witty, interesting and profound, and I found myself making mental notes about being a daughter whilst engrossing myself in some of the challenges that Claire faced when her sister Ondina got really sick. Family relations are international and Mattoni depicts the challenges of being an expat daughter with her own life with expertise and sensitivity.
It was a moving and profound reading experience and I encourage everyone to read this book!
I want to extend my thanks to the author for a free advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 1, 2022
I was lucky enough to have a chance to read an advance copy of this book. I very much loved everything about it.
I could talk about the beautiful writing style, or the masterful way in which the plot is weaved, but what I found most powerful about 'California Sister' are the values it is built on. This is a tale of unyielding bravery precisely in one of those moments when Life shows its most unkind face. It's a tale of finding inner strength in the face of brutally harsh circumstances. It's a tale of answering hopelessness with defiance. And it's a tale of love--in spite of it all.
If you are ready for a narrative taking you on an emotionally intense journey, 'California Sister' is for you.
I could talk about the beautiful writing style, or the masterful way in which the plot is weaved, but what I found most powerful about 'California Sister' are the values it is built on. This is a tale of unyielding bravery precisely in one of those moments when Life shows its most unkind face. It's a tale of finding inner strength in the face of brutally harsh circumstances. It's a tale of answering hopelessness with defiance. And it's a tale of love--in spite of it all.
If you are ready for a narrative taking you on an emotionally intense journey, 'California Sister' is for you.
June 1, 2022
If you have a sibling or wish you had one, read this.
I received an advanced copy and couldn't put it down not just for the beautiful writing but also its depiction of sibling relationships. California Sister (named in part for the butterfly adelpha californica) captures the essence of what it's like to be part of a "litter." :-)
Siblings know you in a way no other human does. Your parents aren't there for the entire arc of your life. Your significant other has probably missed the formative years. Same for most of your friends. Your siblings are there right beside you. If you're lucky, they see you. And you see them.
California Sister peeled away any excess and took the reader to the core of this special relationship. It touched me in a way that I won't forget.
I received an advanced copy and couldn't put it down not just for the beautiful writing but also its depiction of sibling relationships. California Sister (named in part for the butterfly adelpha californica) captures the essence of what it's like to be part of a "litter." :-)
Siblings know you in a way no other human does. Your parents aren't there for the entire arc of your life. Your significant other has probably missed the formative years. Same for most of your friends. Your siblings are there right beside you. If you're lucky, they see you. And you see them.
California Sister peeled away any excess and took the reader to the core of this special relationship. It touched me in a way that I won't forget.
June 16, 2022
Sisters share bonds so strong that sometimes it overrides their ability to see clearly, to make decisions that are excruciatingly painful, to know when to say enough is enough. Gloria Mattioni's California Sister is such a story. The sister love is fierce, sacrificial, committed, and not always on target, but it never wavers in the face of overwhelming odds. The gauntlet of emotions will keep you turning the pages as these two sisters take different journeys to arrive at the same place. You will find yourself transported between Italy and California and life and death as you ride of this roller coaster of experiences, some part of which each of us have encountered. California Sister is a must read.
Donna Keel Armer ~ author, Solo in Salento
Donna Keel Armer ~ author, Solo in Salento
June 6, 2022
I feel privileged that the author gave me an advance copy to read California Sister and post a review. This book tackles many emotional truths in a heartbreaking story of the burden of making life and death decisions for loved ones. It tells the story of what happens when a woman finds herself facing an existential dilemma about the care of her sister's life. In this haunting story, Mattioni also examines issues of euthanasia, values of various health care systems, sisterly love, and pits the sunny American optimism against the Italian darker outlook. A story of love, loss and the choices we make.
November 13, 2022
What a powerful book. I loved the relationship between the sisters, the Italy and Los Angeles settings, and how the author took on such a difficult subject (death with dignity) and handled it was such care and respect. Gloria Mattioni pulls the reader into the story and doesn’t let go. It is emotionally heartbreaking but also beautiful. Often, it felt like a sensory experience because of the creative additions of music lyrics, poetry, letters, and journal entries. If you are looking for a book that feels unique, and delves into a powerful relationship between siblings when one of them suffers a traumatic medical trauma, definitely give this one a read!
June 7, 2022
A beautiful, bold, heartbreaking, and transformative story that as it turned out reflected many of my own experiences with how it feels like to at once fight for the ones you love while realizing that the true fight might be the one happening within. 'California Sister' is a vibrantly-written tale of undying love, bravery, and self-realization that once connects so many different aspects of life, and loss. A must-read.
November 26, 2022
A lyrical and moving meditation about the lives of two sisters facing a seemingly insurmountable challenge and one sister's determination to save the other at all cost.
Author Gloria Mattioni writes with passionate intensity about place, connection, and the beauty, pain, and hard truth of caring for those whom we love.
Author Gloria Mattioni writes with passionate intensity about place, connection, and the beauty, pain, and hard truth of caring for those whom we love.
July 26, 2022
I won't forget this story anytime soon. I'm familiar with Gloria Mattioni as a tough, compassionate journalist, a sophisticated and headstrong Italian reporter who is also a sharp observer of life in southern California. All those qualities are on display in Mattioni's heartbreaking novel, California Sister.
The dilemma facing Claire Waters, an Italian mystery writer living in Los Angeles, is beyond devastating. Called back to Italy when her beloved older sister suffers an incapacitating brain injury, Claire must grapple with her own convictions about how hard to fight for life, even as she tries to intuit what her sister might want and whether that might be quite different. Is Claire a hero? Or is she playing the hero at her sister's expense? When should we fight and when should we let go, and how can any one of us presume to make that decision for another?
California Sister will hurt you in the best way. It will open your eyes and remind you that love and family take all we have, because they are all we have.
The dilemma facing Claire Waters, an Italian mystery writer living in Los Angeles, is beyond devastating. Called back to Italy when her beloved older sister suffers an incapacitating brain injury, Claire must grapple with her own convictions about how hard to fight for life, even as she tries to intuit what her sister might want and whether that might be quite different. Is Claire a hero? Or is she playing the hero at her sister's expense? When should we fight and when should we let go, and how can any one of us presume to make that decision for another?
California Sister will hurt you in the best way. It will open your eyes and remind you that love and family take all we have, because they are all we have.
July 24, 2022
Thoughtful and heartfelt story of sisterly love and the exploration of life. Mattioni asks the very important question, what is worth living for? Through sisters Claire and Ondina, we experience the aftermath of a stroke, and what it means to have quality of life. Each sister answers that in her own way, and the results are heartbreaking.
January 3, 2023
So much heart and detail is put into this novel, it almost reads like a memoir. Mattioni tells the story of sisters, one in Italy, one in California, and the difficult decision one sister must make in the name of love. The novel is very descriptive, painting a detailed portrait of life in California and Italy. It also has an intriguing side story about one of the sisters being a best-selling author who writes mysteries featuring a detective named Nails. I really liked Nails and would be curious to see Mattrioni write that novel!
August 27, 2022
When Claire, in California, gets a devastating call that her sister has had a brain hemorrhage, she flies to Italy to be with her. Upon her arrival at the hospital, she finds her sister completely unresponsive. ““She lost her ability to move, eat and talk because of a brain stroke. Some said she was in a vegetative state. But those were people with no imagination.”
Claire eventually moves to Italy, although she loves California, and oversees her sister’s care.
At first, the chapters are told from Claire’s point of view and express her fears and fights for strength and bravery. As the book progresses, there are chapters from the sister’s point of view, which I found so interesting. Why wouldn’t a person who is unable to communicate verbally have these thoughts? “Don’t pity us, the wounded and disabled, because your pity kills our fighting spirit. Your pity is like a grenade that penetrates and nullifies the thick armor we’ve to wear to still inhabit this world.”
I thank the GOODREADS.COM giveaways for a chance to review this informative book.
Claire eventually moves to Italy, although she loves California, and oversees her sister’s care.
At first, the chapters are told from Claire’s point of view and express her fears and fights for strength and bravery. As the book progresses, there are chapters from the sister’s point of view, which I found so interesting. Why wouldn’t a person who is unable to communicate verbally have these thoughts? “Don’t pity us, the wounded and disabled, because your pity kills our fighting spirit. Your pity is like a grenade that penetrates and nullifies the thick armor we’ve to wear to still inhabit this world.”
I thank the GOODREADS.COM giveaways for a chance to review this informative book.
September 29, 2022
I had the feeling that this novel was semi-autobiographical - the emotional tone felt so genuine. A story of two sisters with completely opposite personalities, living on separate continents, who come together to deal with a devastating diagnosis. This resonated with me, since I'm British, but live in the US, and my sisters are in London. I thought the author did a great job of conveying that tension between being independent yet needing to rise to the occasion when family ties call.
October 12, 2022
California Sister by Gloria Mattioni is a touching story about sisters and the lengths they will go to support one another.
This book was such an emotional read for me. I absolutely love stories about sisters.
I have a sister who is always there for me. While fighting cancer and now dealing with some severe medical issues, she has been there for me every step of the way. This book resonated to me so much and was very relatable.
Though I do not think you need to have a sister to love an appreciate every word of this book.
Claire Waters gets the call no one wants to get, the call that her sister, Ordina had collapsed and is very ill.
Claire drops everything to run her sister's side. I know I would do this for my sister.
Of course, Claire has to make the most difficult decision one can possibly have to make for her nonverbal sister.
The characters were so well written and beautiful and broken and fleshed out, I felt as if I knew them.
The story line is one that is all too familiar to many people who are the primary caretaker for another person.
How much harder it is when we don't know their wishes.
This lyrical novel alternates between the past and the present.
A sister who wants nothing more than to save her sister, which is admirable, but whose choice is it?
The descriptions were so breathtaking beautiful.
I loved this book and glad that I took my time with it. Each word, each page is a master to be savored.
I cannot wait to read more books from this author.
This book was such an emotional read for me. I absolutely love stories about sisters.
I have a sister who is always there for me. While fighting cancer and now dealing with some severe medical issues, she has been there for me every step of the way. This book resonated to me so much and was very relatable.
Though I do not think you need to have a sister to love an appreciate every word of this book.
Claire Waters gets the call no one wants to get, the call that her sister, Ordina had collapsed and is very ill.
Claire drops everything to run her sister's side. I know I would do this for my sister.
Of course, Claire has to make the most difficult decision one can possibly have to make for her nonverbal sister.
The characters were so well written and beautiful and broken and fleshed out, I felt as if I knew them.
The story line is one that is all too familiar to many people who are the primary caretaker for another person.
How much harder it is when we don't know their wishes.
This lyrical novel alternates between the past and the present.
A sister who wants nothing more than to save her sister, which is admirable, but whose choice is it?
The descriptions were so breathtaking beautiful.
I loved this book and glad that I took my time with it. Each word, each page is a master to be savored.
I cannot wait to read more books from this author.
April 10, 2024
“I had to rise up, ride this wave on its crest, all the way to shore. All the way to safety.” This is Chiara aka Claire’s realization after months of struggling to motivate her sister Ondina to miraculously break free of the “locked-in syndrome” brought on by an aneurism and return to the world. The metaphor relates to Claire’s love of surfing and is also a central philosophical dilemma beautifully threaded throughout this immensely engaging and at times overwhelming story. Can a “warrior” like Claire, who thrives on tackling life’s challenges and whose only fear is losing her beloved sister, reach into herself deeply enough to find the strength to let her go? Would this be the ultimate failure or something else entirely?
We get to know both sisters intimately, their past exploits and tangled relationships with family and loved ones, so that in spite of their inability to reach across the barrier of Ondina’s comatose state their relationship shines brightly, their love for each other illuminating every page. Claire’s fierceness is echoed by the protagonist of her novels, a detective appropriately named Nails. Her volatile nature both contrasts and complements Ondina’s meditative artistry. The sisters are equally committed to creative expression as a way of life, which makes this work of women’s fiction especially compelling.
The vivid descriptions of both Italy and California, as Claire travels back and forth on her odyssey to help her sister heal, add a 3-dimensional colorful quality to the writing that serves to balance the depressing and at times terrifying realism of the depiction of Ondina’s medical treatment and mistreatment. Just as Claire refuses to turn away from witnessing her sister’s suffering, the reader who fully connects with this book may find reserves of empathy previously unknown….as well as the rewards that follow.
Highly recommended.
We get to know both sisters intimately, their past exploits and tangled relationships with family and loved ones, so that in spite of their inability to reach across the barrier of Ondina’s comatose state their relationship shines brightly, their love for each other illuminating every page. Claire’s fierceness is echoed by the protagonist of her novels, a detective appropriately named Nails. Her volatile nature both contrasts and complements Ondina’s meditative artistry. The sisters are equally committed to creative expression as a way of life, which makes this work of women’s fiction especially compelling.
The vivid descriptions of both Italy and California, as Claire travels back and forth on her odyssey to help her sister heal, add a 3-dimensional colorful quality to the writing that serves to balance the depressing and at times terrifying realism of the depiction of Ondina’s medical treatment and mistreatment. Just as Claire refuses to turn away from witnessing her sister’s suffering, the reader who fully connects with this book may find reserves of empathy previously unknown….as well as the rewards that follow.
Highly recommended.
October 14, 2022
Disclaimer- I love any and all things Italy 🇮🇹
This was a touching story about a sister’s love and sacrifice. How far would you go for a loved one?
Much of the story is told in my favorite country, Italy.
This was a touching story about a sister’s love and sacrifice. How far would you go for a loved one?
Much of the story is told in my favorite country, Italy.
June 3, 2022
A powerful narration of a very private story that addresses some of the most controversial issues of our contemporary society: the limits of medical intervention, the right to die according to one’s terms, euthanasia, the value of universal health care, the responsibility and burden of caring for the disabled in a ruthless world where success doesn’t contemplate any weakness. (Arianna Dagnino, author of "The Afrikaner", www.ariannadagnino.com)
October 8, 2022
It is very hard to say that contemporary fiction is about this or about that, or it is this shape or it does that, because like life, it covers anything and everything. But there is a long way to answer that question by means of a historical preamble. Personally, I find solace in long novels. The good ones always seem to create space for the reader: space to sink and settle, and time to really learn what you’re dealing with, both in terms of character and in terms of author. You have to build something, reading a really long book. It’s almost a collaborative experience. So if you’re looking for a long-term relationship with a book right now, you couldn’t do much better than the book I am about to tell you guys. The book I am talking about goes by the name “California Sister”.
I usually start with the title and the cover of the book majorly because it's the most exposed part of the book to the viewer’s eye. May be not to all but the readers do notice the appearance of the book which sets the vibe before reading. When it comes to “California Sister” it has a very straight and simple title. It is relevant to the storyline. The cover is also nicely designed which attracts the readers towards it.
Talking about the content of the book, the book has been written in about 324 pages. which is a very short read and you could finish it really soon. Took me about 1 sitting to finish it and it was worth the time spent. Loved the storyline. The feature that made it really amazing was the translation of emotions from the words. This is what made the book successful in my eyes. The book started slow introducing the characters and a little pace t the storyline, a good beginning gave me a little idea sa to how my experience was going to be. The characters of the book are explained well and the plot of the book comes into play when most needed. The best part of the book is mystery and the buildups. A certain sense of thrill made the book worth reading to the very last page. Usually you don't get to read such a story from a new author but the hard work author put in was quite visible. The scenes of the book are the part which will hook you up. The descriptions and the words used are quite impressive and as a reader I would say I loved it. Sisters Claire and Ondina were raised in an unhappy home. The girls make a commitment to one another when they are young. Claire relocates to California and writes mystery books. Ondina has a unique set of pals and resides in Italy. Ondina enjoyed penning tunes. It was harder to get together because of the distance. In order to make crucial decisions when Ondina collides and is placed in a medically induced coma, Claire travels to Italy. The medical outlook for Ondina is not good, the physicians tell Claire. Ondina is strong and will overcome hurdles, and Claire is adamant about this. The reader can sense the love and mental suffering that this is producing because the story is being told via Claire's voice and Ondina's thoughts. Two little sisters make pledges to one another that Claire will never forget. Is love sufficient to make the best decision? I heartily endorse this moving and tragic book. I am sure you guys are going to love this one because it has all of what a reader craves. So what are you guys waiting for go grab your copy fast.
I usually start with the title and the cover of the book majorly because it's the most exposed part of the book to the viewer’s eye. May be not to all but the readers do notice the appearance of the book which sets the vibe before reading. When it comes to “California Sister” it has a very straight and simple title. It is relevant to the storyline. The cover is also nicely designed which attracts the readers towards it.
Talking about the content of the book, the book has been written in about 324 pages. which is a very short read and you could finish it really soon. Took me about 1 sitting to finish it and it was worth the time spent. Loved the storyline. The feature that made it really amazing was the translation of emotions from the words. This is what made the book successful in my eyes. The book started slow introducing the characters and a little pace t the storyline, a good beginning gave me a little idea sa to how my experience was going to be. The characters of the book are explained well and the plot of the book comes into play when most needed. The best part of the book is mystery and the buildups. A certain sense of thrill made the book worth reading to the very last page. Usually you don't get to read such a story from a new author but the hard work author put in was quite visible. The scenes of the book are the part which will hook you up. The descriptions and the words used are quite impressive and as a reader I would say I loved it. Sisters Claire and Ondina were raised in an unhappy home. The girls make a commitment to one another when they are young. Claire relocates to California and writes mystery books. Ondina has a unique set of pals and resides in Italy. Ondina enjoyed penning tunes. It was harder to get together because of the distance. In order to make crucial decisions when Ondina collides and is placed in a medically induced coma, Claire travels to Italy. The medical outlook for Ondina is not good, the physicians tell Claire. Ondina is strong and will overcome hurdles, and Claire is adamant about this. The reader can sense the love and mental suffering that this is producing because the story is being told via Claire's voice and Ondina's thoughts. Two little sisters make pledges to one another that Claire will never forget. Is love sufficient to make the best decision? I heartily endorse this moving and tragic book. I am sure you guys are going to love this one because it has all of what a reader craves. So what are you guys waiting for go grab your copy fast.
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