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Against All Expectations #4
A Heart Most Worthy
On the eve of World War I, three Italian immigrants dream of love, but each harbors a secret that could destroy any hope of happily ever after.
The elegance of Madame Forza's gown shop is a far cry from the downtrodden North End of Boston. Yet each day Julietta, Annamaria, and Luciana enter the world of the upper class, working on finery for the elite in society. The three beauties each long to break free of their obligations and embrace the American dream—and their chance for love. But the ways of the heart are difficult to discern at times.
Julietta is drawn to the swarthy, mysterious Angelo. Annamaria has a star-crossed encounter with the grocer's son, a man from the entirely wrong family. And through no intent of her own, Luciana catches the eye of Billy Quinn, the son of Madame Forza's most important client. Their destinies intertwined, each harboring a secret from their families and each other, will they be found worthy of the love they seek?
The elegance of Madame Forza's gown shop is a far cry from the downtrodden North End of Boston. Yet each day Julietta, Annamaria, and Luciana enter the world of the upper class, working on finery for the elite in society. The three beauties each long to break free of their obligations and embrace the American dream—and their chance for love. But the ways of the heart are difficult to discern at times.
Julietta is drawn to the swarthy, mysterious Angelo. Annamaria has a star-crossed encounter with the grocer's son, a man from the entirely wrong family. And through no intent of her own, Luciana catches the eye of Billy Quinn, the son of Madame Forza's most important client. Their destinies intertwined, each harboring a secret from their families and each other, will they be found worthy of the love they seek?
384 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2011
176 people are currently reading
2069 people want to read
About the author
Siri Mitchell
17 books751 followersalso published under the name Siri L. Mitchell & Iris Anthony
Siri Mitchell graduated from the University of Washington with a business degree and worked in various levels of government. As a military spouse, she has lived all over the world, including Paris and Tokyo. Siri enjoys observing and learning from different cultures. She is fluent in French and loves sushi.
But she is also a member of a strange breed of people called novelists. When they’re listening to a speaker and taking notes, chances are, they’ve just had a great idea for a plot or a dialogue. If they nod in response to a really profound statement, they’re probably thinking, “Yes. Right. That’s exactly what my character needs to hear.” When they edit their manuscripts, they laugh at the funny parts. And cry at the sad parts. Sometimes they even talk to their characters.
Siri wrote 4 books and accumulated 153 rejections before signing with a publisher. In the process, she saw the bottoms of more pints of Ben & Jerry’s than she cares to admit. At various times she has vowed never to write another word again. Ever. She has gone on writing strikes and even stooped to threatening her manuscripts with the shredder.
Siri Mitchell graduated from the University of Washington with a business degree and worked in various levels of government. As a military spouse, she has lived all over the world, including Paris and Tokyo. Siri enjoys observing and learning from different cultures. She is fluent in French and loves sushi.
But she is also a member of a strange breed of people called novelists. When they’re listening to a speaker and taking notes, chances are, they’ve just had a great idea for a plot or a dialogue. If they nod in response to a really profound statement, they’re probably thinking, “Yes. Right. That’s exactly what my character needs to hear.” When they edit their manuscripts, they laugh at the funny parts. And cry at the sad parts. Sometimes they even talk to their characters.
Siri wrote 4 books and accumulated 153 rejections before signing with a publisher. In the process, she saw the bottoms of more pints of Ben & Jerry’s than she cares to admit. At various times she has vowed never to write another word again. Ever. She has gone on writing strikes and even stooped to threatening her manuscripts with the shredder.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 218 reviews
February 15, 2018
Original Review, January 14th:
Okay, WOW. Siri Mitchell has been an author I haven't really loved until now because of the content + her books tend to be unresolved or dad at the end in my limited experience. (I like a happy ending short of GWTW.)
But ... that was great. There was a bit of content, but it never made me too uncomfortable since the narrative voice made me feel safe, if that makes sense. I'll go into more detail in my full review.
Sooooo ... just really cool! I knew about the Spanish Influenza - it came up when researching for TLOTV, actually - but not about this specific Italian Immigration. (I knew there were waves of immigrants but just paid attention to the German and Irish ones for reasons. xD)
Sooo ... yep! Great book!
Full Review, February 13th:
Originally posted on Reveries Reviews.
Title: A Heart Most Worthy
Author: Siri Mitchell
Series: Against All Expectations, #4 (is meant to be a standalone)
Genre: Historical Romance with Christian undertones
Era: 1918 (WW1)
Setting: Boston, United States
Publisher: Bethany House
Source: bought myself a copy at the local library
Time Taken to Read: about three days
Overall Rating: 5/5 stars
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the cover. (Just so you know, the full cover and the formatting are both amazing! If you can, buy yourself a paperback copy. It’s a decoration as well as a good book.)
Now. Onto the story behind the beautiful cover/formatting.
WOW. Siri Mitchell has been an author I haven’t really loved until now because of the content + her books tend to be unresolved or sad at the end in my limited experience. (I like a happy ending short of GWTW.)
Now, I’ve only read two of her books – but they were the first two in this series (it’s a series you can read in any order, just so you know; not sure why it’s a series at all). And both ended … unsatisfactorily. At least, in my opinion. So … I wasn’t sure what to think of this fourth book in the series.
Well, “against all expectations,” it was the most amazing book I’ve read in a long time!
(I’ve decided to remove the section for this review because I love it so much that I need room to ramble.)
The plot was very interesting! There were three major plotlines – that of each of the girls, Julietta, Annamaria, and Luciana – as well as Madame Forza and Mrs. Quinn.
You’d think that many plotlines would be overwhelming! Well … they weren’t. The author masterfully crafted a beautiful story that fitted perfectly together. It’s been a long time since I’ve read such a tight plot.
I think my favorite plot at the beginning was Annamaria’s. Her struggles with being the eldest daughter – who in Sicilian tradition doesn’t marry, but cares for her parents and siblings – and desiring a home and children more than anything broke my heart.
However, as her story progressed, I found myself getting wrapped up in Luciana’s story. Billy Quinn was a stellar character – and even just he made the story that much better. And then, of course, the whole thing with the assassinator was quite suspenseful.
Julietta, I had very little pity for at first. She was kinda being an idiot … which was the point of the lesson, of course, but it was no-less annoying. I did eventually get to like her, but it wasn’t the same as with Luciana and Annamaria.
At about 50%, I totally called the twist with Madame Forza and Mrs. Quinn. And … I just loved it! It was quite sweet.
Anyway, just beautiful.
The writing style was omniscient, and it’s very rarely you see that done well, without head-hopping or confusion. But this was absolutely beautiful! It was like someone was telling me a true story, sitting right in front of me, and I was completely charmed and swept away by it.
The writing had the simplicity of Eleanor H. Porter, the grittiness of Gene Stratton Porter, and the relatable sweetness of Maud Hart Lovelace with a dash of L.M. Montgomery … along with the author’s own style, of course!
The historical details were amazing! Everything seemed 100% accurate to the best of my knowledge, and I felt sucked into the era and setting. The Boston slums, the upper class, World War I, the Spanish flu … everything was quite amazing.
Overall, it was the kind of novel that I’d read again and again. And I fully intend to!
CONTENT: 3/5
Language: n/a
Violence: talk about the war, people dying, etc. One of the main character’s father was blown up by a terrorist. The terrorist is in the USA and tries to kill the main character and others and talks about it. Never anything gruesome or violent.
Sexual: one of the characters put herself in compromising situations with a man who wants to sleep with her, leading to fairly detailed kisses and her having to tell him she’s not that kind of girl, essentially. There are a couple (fairly vague) references to sexual relations. Can’t remember anything else. A married woman accuses her husband of having an affair.
Other: the slums are very slummy, thousands of people die from the Spanish flu later on in the book, and it might be a little frightening for younger reader.
Probably 14 or 15+ for sexual content. Definitely a more mature book, but none-the-less awesome for it.
OVERALL: 5/5
I don’t know how to sum up this amazing book! From the plot to the characters to the setting to the writing, it swept me away. I can’t even begin to say how highly I recommend it to any lover of historical fiction. It was different … but that’s what made it so special!
~Kellyn Roth, Reveries Reviews
Okay, WOW. Siri Mitchell has been an author I haven't really loved until now because of the content + her books tend to be unresolved or dad at the end in my limited experience. (I like a happy ending short of GWTW.)
But ... that was great. There was a bit of content, but it never made me too uncomfortable since the narrative voice made me feel safe, if that makes sense. I'll go into more detail in my full review.
Sooooo ... just really cool! I knew about the Spanish Influenza - it came up when researching for TLOTV, actually - but not about this specific Italian Immigration. (I knew there were waves of immigrants but just paid attention to the German and Irish ones for reasons. xD)
Sooo ... yep! Great book!
Full Review, February 13th:
Originally posted on Reveries Reviews.
Title: A Heart Most Worthy
Author: Siri Mitchell
Series: Against All Expectations, #4 (is meant to be a standalone)
Genre: Historical Romance with Christian undertones
Era: 1918 (WW1)
Setting: Boston, United States
Publisher: Bethany House
Source: bought myself a copy at the local library
Time Taken to Read: about three days
Overall Rating: 5/5 stars
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the cover. (Just so you know, the full cover and the formatting are both amazing! If you can, buy yourself a paperback copy. It’s a decoration as well as a good book.)
Now. Onto the story behind the beautiful cover/formatting.
WOW. Siri Mitchell has been an author I haven’t really loved until now because of the content + her books tend to be unresolved or sad at the end in my limited experience. (I like a happy ending short of GWTW.)
Now, I’ve only read two of her books – but they were the first two in this series (it’s a series you can read in any order, just so you know; not sure why it’s a series at all). And both ended … unsatisfactorily. At least, in my opinion. So … I wasn’t sure what to think of this fourth book in the series.
Well, “against all expectations,” it was the most amazing book I’ve read in a long time!
(I’ve decided to remove the section for this review because I love it so much that I need room to ramble.)
The plot was very interesting! There were three major plotlines – that of each of the girls, Julietta, Annamaria, and Luciana – as well as Madame Forza and Mrs. Quinn.
You’d think that many plotlines would be overwhelming! Well … they weren’t. The author masterfully crafted a beautiful story that fitted perfectly together. It’s been a long time since I’ve read such a tight plot.
I think my favorite plot at the beginning was Annamaria’s. Her struggles with being the eldest daughter – who in Sicilian tradition doesn’t marry, but cares for her parents and siblings – and desiring a home and children more than anything broke my heart.
However, as her story progressed, I found myself getting wrapped up in Luciana’s story. Billy Quinn was a stellar character – and even just he made the story that much better. And then, of course, the whole thing with the assassinator was quite suspenseful.
Julietta, I had very little pity for at first. She was kinda being an idiot … which was the point of the lesson, of course, but it was no-less annoying. I did eventually get to like her, but it wasn’t the same as with Luciana and Annamaria.
At about 50%, I totally called the twist with Madame Forza and Mrs. Quinn. And … I just loved it! It was quite sweet.
Anyway, just beautiful.
The writing style was omniscient, and it’s very rarely you see that done well, without head-hopping or confusion. But this was absolutely beautiful! It was like someone was telling me a true story, sitting right in front of me, and I was completely charmed and swept away by it.
The writing had the simplicity of Eleanor H. Porter, the grittiness of Gene Stratton Porter, and the relatable sweetness of Maud Hart Lovelace with a dash of L.M. Montgomery … along with the author’s own style, of course!
The historical details were amazing! Everything seemed 100% accurate to the best of my knowledge, and I felt sucked into the era and setting. The Boston slums, the upper class, World War I, the Spanish flu … everything was quite amazing.
Overall, it was the kind of novel that I’d read again and again. And I fully intend to!
CONTENT: 3/5
Language: n/a
Violence: talk about the war, people dying, etc. One of the main character’s father was blown up by a terrorist. The terrorist is in the USA and tries to kill the main character and others and talks about it. Never anything gruesome or violent.
Sexual: one of the characters put herself in compromising situations with a man who wants to sleep with her, leading to fairly detailed kisses and her having to tell him she’s not that kind of girl, essentially. There are a couple (fairly vague) references to sexual relations. Can’t remember anything else. A married woman accuses her husband of having an affair.
Other: the slums are very slummy, thousands of people die from the Spanish flu later on in the book, and it might be a little frightening for younger reader.
Probably 14 or 15+ for sexual content. Definitely a more mature book, but none-the-less awesome for it.
OVERALL: 5/5
I don’t know how to sum up this amazing book! From the plot to the characters to the setting to the writing, it swept me away. I can’t even begin to say how highly I recommend it to any lover of historical fiction. It was different … but that’s what made it so special!
~Kellyn Roth, Reveries Reviews
June 6, 2011
Having read all of Siri Mitchell's other novels, I was a little worried about how much I would enjoy this one. The narration is different, and it follows the stories of three different Italian girls living in America in 1918. I had no reason to be worried though! I loved each individual story and how they intertwined with one another.
Julietta got on my nerves a bit at first, but she really develops throughout the course of the story. I was rooting for her by the end of the book. Annamaria might have been the slowest moving story of all, but it was still very sweet, and I liked the way it ended. Luciana's was my favorite story (though perhaps the most unlikely, ha). All of their stories had a sweet romance and real struggles that I could relate to.
It is definitely obvious that Mitchell did her research about how life would have been for a young Italian immigrant during that time. The customs of their families and cultures were very cool to read about, and it really made me think about how hard it must have been to pave a new life for yourself, while still trying to hold onto your roots and the pride of your former country.
I like Mitchell's books because of the real stories and genuine characters. In the world of Christian fiction, all of her books stand out. I hope she is already at work on her next novel!
Julietta got on my nerves a bit at first, but she really develops throughout the course of the story. I was rooting for her by the end of the book. Annamaria might have been the slowest moving story of all, but it was still very sweet, and I liked the way it ended. Luciana's was my favorite story (though perhaps the most unlikely, ha). All of their stories had a sweet romance and real struggles that I could relate to.
It is definitely obvious that Mitchell did her research about how life would have been for a young Italian immigrant during that time. The customs of their families and cultures were very cool to read about, and it really made me think about how hard it must have been to pave a new life for yourself, while still trying to hold onto your roots and the pride of your former country.
I like Mitchell's books because of the real stories and genuine characters. In the world of Christian fiction, all of her books stand out. I hope she is already at work on her next novel!
May 17, 2011
It's difficult to write a review when you just want to write "This book is so awesome!" But it's so much more than that, so I'll try to explain why.
I loved that the book is about everyday life and situations in 1918, it's not about politics, exact dates, and other thing we've already learned in history books. It's about women's lives at home, at work, in love, and with friends. This is what I love to read about!
There are a lot of characters in this book, the three women who work in Madame Fortier's dress shop, and two older women, Madame herself and her customer, Mrs. Quinn. All of the women are very different and lead very different lives, but they all come together at the dress shop.
The romances in this story are absolutely swoon-worthy! The little moments are just so romantic. And all three of the the ladies' love stories are completely different from each others'.
This tale doesn't read like Christian fiction. These ladies make all kinds of mistakes and are able to learn from them instead of being preached at. The message is still there, but it's much more realistic.
It's an eye opening look at city life at the time and glimpse at a piece of history we don't often see. Lovely characters with engrossing stories make this book a keeper!
book sent by publisher in exchange for honest review
reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com
I loved that the book is about everyday life and situations in 1918, it's not about politics, exact dates, and other thing we've already learned in history books. It's about women's lives at home, at work, in love, and with friends. This is what I love to read about!
There are a lot of characters in this book, the three women who work in Madame Fortier's dress shop, and two older women, Madame herself and her customer, Mrs. Quinn. All of the women are very different and lead very different lives, but they all come together at the dress shop.
The romances in this story are absolutely swoon-worthy! The little moments are just so romantic. And all three of the the ladies' love stories are completely different from each others'.
This tale doesn't read like Christian fiction. These ladies make all kinds of mistakes and are able to learn from them instead of being preached at. The message is still there, but it's much more realistic.
It's an eye opening look at city life at the time and glimpse at a piece of history we don't often see. Lovely characters with engrossing stories make this book a keeper!
book sent by publisher in exchange for honest review
reviewed for http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com
September 22, 2020
Such a sweet, engaging story by an author I can't recommend enough ;) three seamtresses with stories that felt relatable and real. Their struggles come through the pages and their hope of the future lifted up my hope for them. I'm all for happy endings and this one doesn't disappoint. The setting of the Spanish influenza is relatable (2020 :/) and the Italian households felt authentic. A story that will sweep you away.
Spiritual content: Catholic faith, prayers, confessions, etc.
Romance content: several kisses, a scene where a girl gets herself in a bad situation, slightly detailed.
Spiritual content: Catholic faith, prayers, confessions, etc.
Romance content: several kisses, a scene where a girl gets herself in a bad situation, slightly detailed.
December 20, 2017
This book was very different and got off to a slow start, but I really liked it in the end.
December 23, 2011
This was one of the those books that just would not let me go until I reached the very last page. While the characters and the setting were quite ordinary, the intricacies of high fashion and historical detail were so well-crafted that I felt transported to the time and place. Through Siri's skillful storytelling, it was easy to imagine living in a squalid tenement, cramped with other immigrant families, and hoping that I would have enough money to feed my family that day. Now, imagine that daily lifestyle with the backdrop of the Spanish influenza epidemic and World War I, and it's not difficult to see why this book was so captivating.
The story follows three unique girls, each with their own stories, and they all happened to work together at Madame Forza's gown shop. Julietta was a little on the reckless side--fascinated by Angelo's mystique, yet not crazy about the danger he seemed to attract. Luciana wanted nothing more than to blend in with the crowd, lest she be found by the men who murdered her family and followed her to America. And finally, Annamaria...my personal favorite. She longed for a life of lesser responsibility, where no one immediately assumed that it was her job to take care of her parents into their old age, but instead, to create a new beginning with the man of her heart. This man just happened to be from the grocer's shop across the street, only he's the last person she ought to be attracted to.
While A Heart Most Worthy most likely would not be considered a historical romance, the romance elements of the book were some of the best I've read in ages. Few authors can weave it into their tales in such a beautiful way that it makes one think back to the early days of their own individual love story. Siri is one of those authors. For example, Annamaria was literally forbidden from speaking to the grocer's son across the street, yet after each visit there, the attraction between them escalated after a quick glimpse here or a subtle smile there. When they spoke to one another for the first time, my stomach was so full of butterflies, you'd think I was going on my first date!
Even though I've only read two books now by Siri, it's going to be extremely difficult for any of her others to match up to this one. I could go on for another two or three paragraphs about everything that I loved, but I've tried to leave a little bit to entice a new reader. The story was unique, the setting realistic, and the romance...well, I think you know my feelings on that. *wink* A Heart Most Worthy was one of the most satisfying books I've read in a very long time, and has easily carved out a line on my Top Ten Books of 2011.
The story follows three unique girls, each with their own stories, and they all happened to work together at Madame Forza's gown shop. Julietta was a little on the reckless side--fascinated by Angelo's mystique, yet not crazy about the danger he seemed to attract. Luciana wanted nothing more than to blend in with the crowd, lest she be found by the men who murdered her family and followed her to America. And finally, Annamaria...my personal favorite. She longed for a life of lesser responsibility, where no one immediately assumed that it was her job to take care of her parents into their old age, but instead, to create a new beginning with the man of her heart. This man just happened to be from the grocer's shop across the street, only he's the last person she ought to be attracted to.
While A Heart Most Worthy most likely would not be considered a historical romance, the romance elements of the book were some of the best I've read in ages. Few authors can weave it into their tales in such a beautiful way that it makes one think back to the early days of their own individual love story. Siri is one of those authors. For example, Annamaria was literally forbidden from speaking to the grocer's son across the street, yet after each visit there, the attraction between them escalated after a quick glimpse here or a subtle smile there. When they spoke to one another for the first time, my stomach was so full of butterflies, you'd think I was going on my first date!
Even though I've only read two books now by Siri, it's going to be extremely difficult for any of her others to match up to this one. I could go on for another two or three paragraphs about everything that I loved, but I've tried to leave a little bit to entice a new reader. The story was unique, the setting realistic, and the romance...well, I think you know my feelings on that. *wink* A Heart Most Worthy was one of the most satisfying books I've read in a very long time, and has easily carved out a line on my Top Ten Books of 2011.
March 8, 2011
For a while now, I have had mixed emotions about Siri Mitchell’s books. On the one hand, her writing is flawless, her stories have depth and historical details and her characters are unique and realistic. On the other hand, I have yet to find a Siri Mitchell book that has been difficult to put down. In fact, I have found it difficult to get into these books. A Heart Most Worthy was a similar experience to my experiences in the past.
Now, I am not saying that I did not like this book or that it wasn’t good, because it was, once I got into it. Among the things I did like about this book are the characters and the setting. I liked the very different personalities that came together and I appreciate the author including the List of Characters at the front of the book. It was very helpful. Madame Fortier’s dress shop made for an interesting setting for this story and I loved the fact that Siri chose to have another story set in Boston. There is such an interesting history in that city and Siri’s flawless research and historical accuracy really put me right in the heart of the North End in 1918. That really went a long way with me to increase my enjoyment of this book.
I really hope this review does not sound overly critical because Siri is a beautiful writer and she has an amazing talent for creating beautiful stories. I just have a tendency to struggle through her books at times, but that is just me. I think A Heart Most Worthy will appeal to historical fiction fans who enjoy a book that can be savored and not rushed.
Now, I am not saying that I did not like this book or that it wasn’t good, because it was, once I got into it. Among the things I did like about this book are the characters and the setting. I liked the very different personalities that came together and I appreciate the author including the List of Characters at the front of the book. It was very helpful. Madame Fortier’s dress shop made for an interesting setting for this story and I loved the fact that Siri chose to have another story set in Boston. There is such an interesting history in that city and Siri’s flawless research and historical accuracy really put me right in the heart of the North End in 1918. That really went a long way with me to increase my enjoyment of this book.
I really hope this review does not sound overly critical because Siri is a beautiful writer and she has an amazing talent for creating beautiful stories. I just have a tendency to struggle through her books at times, but that is just me. I think A Heart Most Worthy will appeal to historical fiction fans who enjoy a book that can be savored and not rushed.
November 13, 2021
Love this book! Great Italian, Sicilian history that is not often talked about! It was interesting to see the parallel story of sacrifice, in all the characters. Often believing they were doing what was best for their families or others, but realizing that often we hurt others, in trying to save them.
April 9, 2011
Wow! This book is like a sweet Vidalia onion that's been caramelized - lots of layers and all full of yummy goodness. I could analyze this for pages and pages but I'll try and restrain myself. ;o) It starts with the cover. Isn't it drool-worthy? I'm in total envy over that dress.
The author tackles surface issues like the the problems the Italian immigrants faced both from outsiders and from their own prejudices against other Italians. Tradition and family was all many of them had. Sometimes the same stubborn pride that helped them survive in this new country insulated them and even caused them to refuse help they needed.
What makes a healthy relationship? What is most important in love? All the main characters struggle with these questions on some level or another. Whether it's 1918 or 2011, people still mistake lust for love, they still think they're unworthy for whatever reason, they still fear what will happen if they trust... and sometimes they think it's too late once they've made mistakes. Sometimes people try to manipulate people and call it love.
Then you have the political undertones. People who think violence is the way to bring about change and that the government should do whatever they want. People who don't mind stealing, killing or dying in order to make their plans come to fruition. It sounds eerily like what is going on here and around the world. Yet you meet them, sympathize and want to be able to help them see what they're doing is hurting themselves and others.
The three main characters couldn't be more different. Add in Madame Fortier and you have four women who will stay with me for some time. They loved deeply, made mistakes, kept secrets, and showed a tenacity of spirit that made me love them all. From the beginning to end you can see each of them grow and change in individual ways that reflected the personal journey each had to take.
There were also some yummy heroes that you won't want to miss. Each had his own strengths (and weaknesses) that perfectly matched the girl he was destined to be with. Some had unflappable faith and determination, some patience that would try a saint, some were self-sacrificing... and some were forgiving and generous. All were romantic because true romance is loving in a way that brings out the best in them and is concentrated on their needs instead of your own.
This is going on my list of best books of 2011. I want to thank Bethany House for providing me my copy in exchange for my honest review.
The author tackles surface issues like the the problems the Italian immigrants faced both from outsiders and from their own prejudices against other Italians. Tradition and family was all many of them had. Sometimes the same stubborn pride that helped them survive in this new country insulated them and even caused them to refuse help they needed.
What makes a healthy relationship? What is most important in love? All the main characters struggle with these questions on some level or another. Whether it's 1918 or 2011, people still mistake lust for love, they still think they're unworthy for whatever reason, they still fear what will happen if they trust... and sometimes they think it's too late once they've made mistakes. Sometimes people try to manipulate people and call it love.
Then you have the political undertones. People who think violence is the way to bring about change and that the government should do whatever they want. People who don't mind stealing, killing or dying in order to make their plans come to fruition. It sounds eerily like what is going on here and around the world. Yet you meet them, sympathize and want to be able to help them see what they're doing is hurting themselves and others.
The three main characters couldn't be more different. Add in Madame Fortier and you have four women who will stay with me for some time. They loved deeply, made mistakes, kept secrets, and showed a tenacity of spirit that made me love them all. From the beginning to end you can see each of them grow and change in individual ways that reflected the personal journey each had to take.
There were also some yummy heroes that you won't want to miss. Each had his own strengths (and weaknesses) that perfectly matched the girl he was destined to be with. Some had unflappable faith and determination, some patience that would try a saint, some were self-sacrificing... and some were forgiving and generous. All were romantic because true romance is loving in a way that brings out the best in them and is concentrated on their needs instead of your own.
This is going on my list of best books of 2011. I want to thank Bethany House for providing me my copy in exchange for my honest review.
September 16, 2013
This story is set in 1918; three young Italian immigrant women are working in a Boston dress shop. Julietta enjoys flirting with the boys, and wishes she were American instead of Italian. She begins a romance with a handsome and mysterious stranger and soon finds herself in over her head.
Annamaria is the eldest girl in her family, and is expected to remain unmarried so that she can help take care of the family, and her parents when they reach old age. She has always been a dutiful daughter, but she can't help but wonder why she can't have a life for herself, especially when she finds herself falling for the son of the Sicilian grocer across the street, and her parents are also very prejudiced against Sicilians.
Luciana escaped Italy with her grandmother after the assassination of her father, the Count of Roma, and they had to leave everything behind. Money is running out, and Luciana gets a job at the dress shop doing bead work to put food on the table, but who will look after her grandmother while she is working? She also know the anarchist who killed her father is also in Boston, looking for her.
I really enjoyed this story, it was the perfect blend of history and romance. The romances were believable in the way they unfolded, and sweetly done, but not saccharine. The history of that time and place was well done, incorporating the effects of World War I on society, and the Spanish Flu epidemic. I enjoyed reading about Italian culture in America; it was interesting to learn that many of the Italians kept within their own groups depending upon which region of Italy they were from, and there was prejudice among the different groups, with Sicilians being the most scorned.
I liked how the girls all came from very different families, but they way they formed friendships happened very naturally and was believable.
Annamaria is the eldest girl in her family, and is expected to remain unmarried so that she can help take care of the family, and her parents when they reach old age. She has always been a dutiful daughter, but she can't help but wonder why she can't have a life for herself, especially when she finds herself falling for the son of the Sicilian grocer across the street, and her parents are also very prejudiced against Sicilians.
Luciana escaped Italy with her grandmother after the assassination of her father, the Count of Roma, and they had to leave everything behind. Money is running out, and Luciana gets a job at the dress shop doing bead work to put food on the table, but who will look after her grandmother while she is working? She also know the anarchist who killed her father is also in Boston, looking for her.
I really enjoyed this story, it was the perfect blend of history and romance. The romances were believable in the way they unfolded, and sweetly done, but not saccharine. The history of that time and place was well done, incorporating the effects of World War I on society, and the Spanish Flu epidemic. I enjoyed reading about Italian culture in America; it was interesting to learn that many of the Italians kept within their own groups depending upon which region of Italy they were from, and there was prejudice among the different groups, with Sicilians being the most scorned.
I liked how the girls all came from very different families, but they way they formed friendships happened very naturally and was believable.
April 19, 2011
Title: A HEART MOST WORTHY
Author: Siri Mitchell
Publisher: Bethany House
March 2011
ISBN: 978-0-7642-0795-2
Genre: Inspiration/Women’s fiction/historical
I’ve read and enjoyed most of Siri Mitchell’s books, so when this one came available for review I jumped at the chance to review it. This book is set up very differently from her other books, and to be honest I didn’t even have a clue how to begin to review it! The story is about three different seamstresses who work in the same dress shop, but they are all very different. Juliette is rather reckless, Annamarie is very shy and keeps falling for the wrong men, and Luciana has a secret past which could prove to be dangerous.
The story is told by a narrator, which I found rather difficult to read, resulting in the fact that I couldn’t get drawn into the story at all. However, the romance parts of the book are well done, not overly done fairy tale type romances, but more realistic. Not all of the romances end with a happily ever after.
The story takes place in an immigrant section of Boston, and Ms. Mitchell has included a lot of descriptions about the type of housing, the quality of life. It is obvious Ms. Mitchell did her research, and the facts she includes are fascinating.
This was probably the least favorite of all the books by Siri Mitchell that I’ve read. Like I said, I think that it was told by a narrator kind of ruined it for me since I was unable to get into the story the way I would have liked. I was kept very distant the whole time. However, if you enjoy Ms. Mitchell’s books, please do give A HEART MOST WORTHY a try. You might like it better than I did. I did really enjoy the note from the author included at the end, and there are also discussion questions. $14.99. 380 pages.
Author: Siri Mitchell
Publisher: Bethany House
March 2011
ISBN: 978-0-7642-0795-2
Genre: Inspiration/Women’s fiction/historical
I’ve read and enjoyed most of Siri Mitchell’s books, so when this one came available for review I jumped at the chance to review it. This book is set up very differently from her other books, and to be honest I didn’t even have a clue how to begin to review it! The story is about three different seamstresses who work in the same dress shop, but they are all very different. Juliette is rather reckless, Annamarie is very shy and keeps falling for the wrong men, and Luciana has a secret past which could prove to be dangerous.
The story is told by a narrator, which I found rather difficult to read, resulting in the fact that I couldn’t get drawn into the story at all. However, the romance parts of the book are well done, not overly done fairy tale type romances, but more realistic. Not all of the romances end with a happily ever after.
The story takes place in an immigrant section of Boston, and Ms. Mitchell has included a lot of descriptions about the type of housing, the quality of life. It is obvious Ms. Mitchell did her research, and the facts she includes are fascinating.
This was probably the least favorite of all the books by Siri Mitchell that I’ve read. Like I said, I think that it was told by a narrator kind of ruined it for me since I was unable to get into the story the way I would have liked. I was kept very distant the whole time. However, if you enjoy Ms. Mitchell’s books, please do give A HEART MOST WORTHY a try. You might like it better than I did. I did really enjoy the note from the author included at the end, and there are also discussion questions. $14.99. 380 pages.
February 28, 2011
I am unsure about “A Heart Most Worthy”, not in a negative way, just… unsure…
Let me preface this review by saying I have not met a Siri Mitchell book I have not liked, she has an amazing writing “voice”.
While I enjoyed “A Heart Most Worthy”, I am still kicking around the idea if I liked it enough to read more books in this nature. Allow me to explain. The author employed a writing technique called “omniscient” point of view. Unhindered by space breaks, you jump from one character’s head to the next with little warning.
If I had to read such a book, I would want Siri to do it. There were few stumbling blocks, the reader was almost always warned by a new paragraph and the “head hopping” within characters was done when they shared the same scene.
That said I couldn’t really get “into” the book. I liked the story, the multiply plots all came together- even a few character surprises. You have to be patient at the beginning and become familiar with the multiply players. But the reason for my uncertainty is I am unsure about the omniscient point of view. On one hand I liked it, on the other hand it’s not my favorite way to read.
It’s still a great Siri Mitchell story, I think other readers are going to have to decide for themselves if they like the style of this particular book. I would say the story overall was very good.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers through CFBA for my copy to review.
Let me preface this review by saying I have not met a Siri Mitchell book I have not liked, she has an amazing writing “voice”.
While I enjoyed “A Heart Most Worthy”, I am still kicking around the idea if I liked it enough to read more books in this nature. Allow me to explain. The author employed a writing technique called “omniscient” point of view. Unhindered by space breaks, you jump from one character’s head to the next with little warning.
If I had to read such a book, I would want Siri to do it. There were few stumbling blocks, the reader was almost always warned by a new paragraph and the “head hopping” within characters was done when they shared the same scene.
That said I couldn’t really get “into” the book. I liked the story, the multiply plots all came together- even a few character surprises. You have to be patient at the beginning and become familiar with the multiply players. But the reason for my uncertainty is I am unsure about the omniscient point of view. On one hand I liked it, on the other hand it’s not my favorite way to read.
It’s still a great Siri Mitchell story, I think other readers are going to have to decide for themselves if they like the style of this particular book. I would say the story overall was very good.
This review is my honest opinion. Thanks to the publishers through CFBA for my copy to review.
March 3, 2011
This author always writes intense stories and I love her for that, mostly. The writing is unique and at times very witty. Which is very refreshing, especially in the Christian fiction world, were lots of stories get published and all they contain are mush and weak story lines.
The biggest thing I have to say about this book is it has too many stories. I liked all three girls, and all three stories were engrossing. However, I felt it was overloaded and each story lost something because it was stuck within all the other story lines.
I didn't like Julietta at first, and funny enough, she ended up being the character I had the most empathy for. I loved how everything fell into place for her and Mauro. He was also the best guy over all the others. Except for Raphaello's taking care of Annamaria and her family during the Spanish influenza sickness.
I actually liked Luciana's story the best, in the first of the book, but thought due to all the other storylines, her's got sucked into a writing trap and never quite came into focus. And the second half of the book seemed to favor Julietta and Annamaria.
The history on the North End and on the Italian immmigrant way of life is excellently researched. Its not my favorite of this authors but I did appreciate the research and it made me want to read more about the North End.
The biggest thing I have to say about this book is it has too many stories. I liked all three girls, and all three stories were engrossing. However, I felt it was overloaded and each story lost something because it was stuck within all the other story lines.
I didn't like Julietta at first, and funny enough, she ended up being the character I had the most empathy for. I loved how everything fell into place for her and Mauro. He was also the best guy over all the others. Except for Raphaello's taking care of Annamaria and her family during the Spanish influenza sickness.
I actually liked Luciana's story the best, in the first of the book, but thought due to all the other storylines, her's got sucked into a writing trap and never quite came into focus. And the second half of the book seemed to favor Julietta and Annamaria.
The history on the North End and on the Italian immmigrant way of life is excellently researched. Its not my favorite of this authors but I did appreciate the research and it made me want to read more about the North End.
May 5, 2011
Oh my goodness. I have only read one of Siri's books prior to this, but with this title I am solidified as one of her followers. Wow. This book has so many different layers and story lines running through it that I could only turn the page again and again to get to the bottom of the many mysteries. The main characters are three Italian immigrants named Julietta, Annamaria, and Luciana. Did you not just swoon when I said those names. Every great novel needs some great names and this one is chock full of them. All three girls work at the Madame's gown shop; each has their own specialty. In a city where Italians are scrutinized and almost abhorred, this story once again shows the depth of Siri Mitchell's impeccable research. I not only read a memorable story, but I learned something as well. I had no idea that as immigrants came from Italy, they were not referred to Italians, but rather Romans, Sicilians, etc. I am quite thankful to have found out that interesting fact.
I would read this story again without even blinking an eye. Full of detail and suspense this is a must-read!
I was given a copy of this title for review by Bethany House Publishers. All opinions are my own.
I would read this story again without even blinking an eye. Full of detail and suspense this is a must-read!
I was given a copy of this title for review by Bethany House Publishers. All opinions are my own.
September 12, 2011
Once again author Siri Mitchell brings the past to life in A Heart Most Worthy. Every time I read one of Siri ‘s books, I feel like I’ve sat in on a college level history class, with the added bonus that I didn’t have to pay the tuition and there’s no final. Win, win, win, I tell ya!
This story puts the reader dead center in the heart a Bostonian Italian neighborhood during the early twentieth century. I already knew about the danger of the epic Spanish Flu, but I had no idea of the hazards of prejudice against Italians. The trials the three main characters endure evoke feelings of compassion, sympathy, and outright anger. And not just because of the way others disrespected them, but for the way Italians treated other Italians. Leaves me shaking my head.
This is a unique novel in that it’s presented mostly in omniscient narrative, which is slightly jarring in my opinion. I got used to it after awhile but it’s not a personal favorite.
A Heart Most Worthy is a stand alone story that makes some great points about confusing lust for love, the need for government vs. anarchism, and how easily the things we think we need can be turned into idols.
This story puts the reader dead center in the heart a Bostonian Italian neighborhood during the early twentieth century. I already knew about the danger of the epic Spanish Flu, but I had no idea of the hazards of prejudice against Italians. The trials the three main characters endure evoke feelings of compassion, sympathy, and outright anger. And not just because of the way others disrespected them, but for the way Italians treated other Italians. Leaves me shaking my head.
This is a unique novel in that it’s presented mostly in omniscient narrative, which is slightly jarring in my opinion. I got used to it after awhile but it’s not a personal favorite.
A Heart Most Worthy is a stand alone story that makes some great points about confusing lust for love, the need for government vs. anarchism, and how easily the things we think we need can be turned into idols.
October 24, 2015
The story of three Italian girls, set during the Great Emigration and the approaching of the end of World War I, Luciana, Julietta, Annamaria, who work at Madame Fortier's gown-making shop. Luciana was the daughter of the recently assassinated Count of Roma who has now fallen on hard times and is on the run in America. Both Julietta and Annamaria are normal Italian migrant girls, but they are as different to each other as day is to night. Where Julietta is daring and boy-crazy, Annamaria is a nice girl who suffers from the expectation of being the firstborn daughter - destined to remain unmarried to look after her parents and is always there to do what her family demands her to do.
An easygoing read, I finished it in one day. But maybe too easygoing? Especially for a story with something as serious as the issue of xenophobic, the Spanish Influenza, and the war as its setting.
The matches made are too perfect. It is Luciana whom Billy meets and falls for, Luciana the once-rich once-noble matched with the son of the Congressman and not just some common Italian girls. And Julietta to Mauro because girls, you should settle down with a nice man with a job and not go off with some bad boys your mother does not even know. Kinda preachy in that respect.
In fact he whole novel is rather preachy, but what can you expect from a Christian fiction? But I have read some other Christian fictions that do not go as long as this one talking about God and so on. It matters less to me, I still prefer a Christian Romance to one of those Romances with almost-naked guys on the covers and sex scenes every ten pages or so.
Still, if it can be a bit more complicated, it could have been better. I expected a happy ending, but I also expected the heroines to struggle to reach what they want. Rather than having the obstacles removed conveniently for them by some Divine mean or outside influence, whatever you want to call them. It was like seeing a child struggling to climb a tree for the most delicious, the reddest, the glossiest apple, only to see it fell to the ground because a gale had taken upon itself to shake the branch where the said apple hung. It just kills the tension, the climax, if you get what I mean. And with A Heart Most Worthy, it rather made the three girls a bit two-dimensional.
I did not hate the girls but nor did I particularly liked them. I sympathised the most with Annamaria, but as a whole, while it was fun reading about them, I did not miss them now that our time together was over and there would be no second time.
All in all, it was an enjoyable read. I had hoped for more luxurious descriptions about gowns, which was why I picked up this particular book from Siri Mitchell's works, but this is not The Time in Between. Nice cover by the way, though I could do without the ruffles on the sleeve.
An easygoing read, I finished it in one day. But maybe too easygoing? Especially for a story with something as serious as the issue of xenophobic, the Spanish Influenza, and the war as its setting.
The matches made are too perfect. It is Luciana whom Billy meets and falls for, Luciana the once-rich once-noble matched with the son of the Congressman and not just some common Italian girls. And Julietta to Mauro because girls, you should settle down with a nice man with a job and not go off with some bad boys your mother does not even know. Kinda preachy in that respect.
In fact he whole novel is rather preachy, but what can you expect from a Christian fiction? But I have read some other Christian fictions that do not go as long as this one talking about God and so on. It matters less to me, I still prefer a Christian Romance to one of those Romances with almost-naked guys on the covers and sex scenes every ten pages or so.
Still, if it can be a bit more complicated, it could have been better. I expected a happy ending, but I also expected the heroines to struggle to reach what they want. Rather than having the obstacles removed conveniently for them by some Divine mean or outside influence, whatever you want to call them. It was like seeing a child struggling to climb a tree for the most delicious, the reddest, the glossiest apple, only to see it fell to the ground because a gale had taken upon itself to shake the branch where the said apple hung. It just kills the tension, the climax, if you get what I mean. And with A Heart Most Worthy, it rather made the three girls a bit two-dimensional.
I did not hate the girls but nor did I particularly liked them. I sympathised the most with Annamaria, but as a whole, while it was fun reading about them, I did not miss them now that our time together was over and there would be no second time.
All in all, it was an enjoyable read. I had hoped for more luxurious descriptions about gowns, which was why I picked up this particular book from Siri Mitchell's works, but this is not The Time in Between. Nice cover by the way, though I could do without the ruffles on the sleeve.
March 26, 2011
A Heart Most Worthy by author Siri Mitchell is a lovely historical romance set in 1918 Boston.
The story follows three different women, all seamstresses, all Catholic and all Italian. But despite their similarities, their personalities and personal lives are very different.
Julietta is impulsive, headstrong, proud and foolish, which gets her into a lot of trouble where love is concerned. Her recklessness will cost her dearly.
Annamaria, is quiet, obedient to her parents and resigned to living a life of servitude to them, until she meets the man of her dreams. Will she pursue love while she can, or live her life unmarried, as her parents desire?
Lucianna, has a secret. A secret that if found out could result in her death. She also has a new love, will she tell him her secret or take her chances?
Author Siri Mitchell has done a wonderful job of drawing the reader into the time period. I was quite surprised at what I learned about the great Italian Emigration and the Spanish influenza that took so many lives. Who said that novels can't teach you anything?
The characters are well defined and their feelings and personalities jump right off the page. The only thing I thought a little annoying was the author's comments throughout the book. One minute we would be hearing one of the characters thoughts and seeing her reactions and then the author cut in like a voice over. It was very disconcerting and didn't really need to be there, however it didn't take away from the storyline.
I give A Heart Most Worthy 4 out of 5 stars.
The story follows three different women, all seamstresses, all Catholic and all Italian. But despite their similarities, their personalities and personal lives are very different.
Julietta is impulsive, headstrong, proud and foolish, which gets her into a lot of trouble where love is concerned. Her recklessness will cost her dearly.
Annamaria, is quiet, obedient to her parents and resigned to living a life of servitude to them, until she meets the man of her dreams. Will she pursue love while she can, or live her life unmarried, as her parents desire?
Lucianna, has a secret. A secret that if found out could result in her death. She also has a new love, will she tell him her secret or take her chances?
Author Siri Mitchell has done a wonderful job of drawing the reader into the time period. I was quite surprised at what I learned about the great Italian Emigration and the Spanish influenza that took so many lives. Who said that novels can't teach you anything?
The characters are well defined and their feelings and personalities jump right off the page. The only thing I thought a little annoying was the author's comments throughout the book. One minute we would be hearing one of the characters thoughts and seeing her reactions and then the author cut in like a voice over. It was very disconcerting and didn't really need to be there, however it didn't take away from the storyline.
I give A Heart Most Worthy 4 out of 5 stars.
May 1, 2011
The year is 1918. The place is Boston. World War I is raging, and three immigrant girls are struggling to find themselves. Julietta, strong and bold, must choose between true love and exciting love. Annamaria, quiet and obedient, falls for a boy from the other side of the street and must choose between love and her parents’ prejudice. Luciana, alone and carrying a secret, must choose between love and safety. Working together at a dress shop, the three girls’ lives are woven together in a historical tale of prejudices, loyalties, and both the love of a man and of God.
This is the first historical fiction book I’ve read by Siri Mitchell, and I enjoyed it. Boston is my favorite city in America, and I was happy to see it as the setting for this tale. I loved the Italian culture that filled the pages. Although there are myriad characters in the book, they are all well-developed and accurately portray the women of that generation. Each girl’s story was unique but shared the common theme of finding love despite all obstacles. The side storylines of Madame Fortier’s lost love and the political and social issues of the time deepened the overall theme.
Although the ending was predictable, the journey there was enjoyable. I will definitely check out the other historical books by Siri Mitchell.
I received this book from Bethany House for the purpose of reviewing.
www.laurathbookworm.blogspot.com
This is the first historical fiction book I’ve read by Siri Mitchell, and I enjoyed it. Boston is my favorite city in America, and I was happy to see it as the setting for this tale. I loved the Italian culture that filled the pages. Although there are myriad characters in the book, they are all well-developed and accurately portray the women of that generation. Each girl’s story was unique but shared the common theme of finding love despite all obstacles. The side storylines of Madame Fortier’s lost love and the political and social issues of the time deepened the overall theme.
Although the ending was predictable, the journey there was enjoyable. I will definitely check out the other historical books by Siri Mitchell.
I received this book from Bethany House for the purpose of reviewing.
www.laurathbookworm.blogspot.com
December 28, 2011
This is one of the most gripping stories I have ever read. It is written in an older, omniscient style that isn't often used today but is very effective for telling this particular story of three young Italian women and the enigmatic owner of the dress shop where they work. The story is set in Boston in 1918, at the end of WWI. Each character struggles with her individual circumstances amid the prejudice of the surrounding society, and each is surprised by true love when it seems most impossible to find it.
Mitchell weaves the characters' stories together in a most affecting way and at intervals inserts gently knowing comments that engage the reader's empathy and understanding. Although the book starts slowly, the characters quickly capture the reader's heart, and by the end only the hardest of hearts could not be in tears. As Mama Giordano said to her Julietta, who felt unworthy of the one who loved her: "Who has ever deserved anything they've been given? Love is not about deserving, cara mia. It's about giving. And accepting. And sharing. The most worthy heart is also the most courageous. Coraggio! Don't give up. Not just yet." A very wise mother indeed.
Mitchell weaves the characters' stories together in a most affecting way and at intervals inserts gently knowing comments that engage the reader's empathy and understanding. Although the book starts slowly, the characters quickly capture the reader's heart, and by the end only the hardest of hearts could not be in tears. As Mama Giordano said to her Julietta, who felt unworthy of the one who loved her: "Who has ever deserved anything they've been given? Love is not about deserving, cara mia. It's about giving. And accepting. And sharing. The most worthy heart is also the most courageous. Coraggio! Don't give up. Not just yet." A very wise mother indeed.
March 21, 2011
A Heart Most Worthy is excellent. Usually I'm not a fan of books that feature multiple main characters but for this book it worked. Each of the characters were all connected through the dress shop in early 20th c. Boston where they worked. Each had their own struggles with faith, love and family and there was even a little about politics. I absolutely loved that each of the heroines was Italian simply because I can't remember the last time I read a book with Italian immigrants AND an Italian neighborhood that was in Boston, not New York. The characters were Catholic too which was great because that's not something you see everyday in Christian fiction for some dumb reason. I honestly didn't think I could like a book more than her previous release, She Walks in Beauty but this was definitely just as good! How will Siri top this? I dunno, it's gonna be tough! :-)
June 6, 2011
this was hideously awful -- way too many characters, way too much love-at-first-sight, and excessively melodramatic happenings. and, may i point out, that a "destitute heiress" is an heiress no longer! could we please stop referring to her as an heiress? she's not going to inherit anything anymore.
the only thing rescuing this novel from the 1 star rating is the setting -- 1918 Boston, complete with immigrant tenements, war-effort fervor, spanish influenza, and generally well-done milieu
pg for above mentioned setting, plus some stupid choices that almost lead to virtue-loss for one of our three (count them, three!) female leads; assassination; prejudice
the only thing rescuing this novel from the 1 star rating is the setting -- 1918 Boston, complete with immigrant tenements, war-effort fervor, spanish influenza, and generally well-done milieu
pg for above mentioned setting, plus some stupid choices that almost lead to virtue-loss for one of our three (count them, three!) female leads; assassination; prejudice
June 8, 2011
I had a hard time getting into this at the beginning. The books switches by chapter between the perspectives of three different girls who all work in the same shop but are quite different from each other. So, in the 1st 6 chapters you are introduced to a lot of characters and names and events. The author does realize this may be confusing and added a list of characters in the front.
But, once I had it all sorted out and got into the story, I ended up liking the book. The characters weren't really deep, and the historical element wasn't very involved, and the romance wasn't anything new, but, overall it had heart.
But, once I had it all sorted out and got into the story, I ended up liking the book. The characters weren't really deep, and the historical element wasn't very involved, and the romance wasn't anything new, but, overall it had heart.
August 21, 2015
Wonderful story in a fascinating backdrop. I hadn't read many books from the omniscient POV so it took a while to adjust to bouncing between characters heads/narrator but it lended itself to the story so well. I love how Mitchell wove the different stories and personalities together. All the strings were tied up by the end with no questions left in my mind. Amazing details that throw you right into 1918. Great historical fiction!
February 27, 2011
I was quite startled when I finished reading this book. What? It ENDS?!
September 14, 2013
I enjoyed this story! Very well written. Siri does a great job interweaving the lives of her three heroines, and I found the history during that time fascinating.
May 22, 2019
Do you know the history of the Great Italian Emigration to America in the late 1800s? I didn’t either until I read this unforgettable story of three young Italian girls trying to make their way in New York City. I love all of Siri Mitchell’s books, but this one is really special.
February 17, 2022
Loved it! While it had an enjoyable storyline, it was also very educational on the life of Italian immigrants in the early 1900s.
January 8, 2019
Loved the individual and familial insights of the three young women featured. The interplay of these well drawn characters sustained my interest as did the growing romantic interests, suspense and historical complexities of the era .
Narrator 's fine work with accents and conversations of Italian and German flowed without distraction.
Histfic
Italian immigrants
1917
Audio
Narrator 's fine work with accents and conversations of Italian and German flowed without distraction.
Histfic
Italian immigrants
1917
Audio
June 26, 2011
This review first appeared on my blog: http://www.knittingandsundries.com/20...
Three girls, all Italian immigrants, but with very different personal stories. They all work at Madame Fortier's Gown Shop. Madame Fortier isn't really French, but the prejudices against her people keep her close-mouthed about her Italian heritage.
Julietta Giordano is 18 years old. Her specialty is embroidery. Her large Italian family is hard-working and all of their pay goes directly to their father. Julietta is looking for fun, and she has her eye on just the young man to make it happen. She's a bit selfish and very impetuous, and she doesn't realize that you shouldn't always get what you wish for.
Annamaria Rossi is the oldest girl in her family, and as such, she is expected not to marry and to take care of her parents in their old age. Her specialty is smocking. She is an obedient girl, but she can't help herself; she wonders WHY she has to give up her whole life to take care of everyone else? Why can't ALL of the family help take care of her parents?
Luciana Conti escaped Italy with her grandmother after the assassination of her father, the Count of Roma. The Contessa is immobilized by her grief, and the money is running out. Luciana's excellent beadwork will be the key to keeping food in the house; but who will look after her grandmother while she is working? When she sees the anarchist that killed her father on the streets of Boston, she knows that she can't let anyone know who she really is, or he will finish the job he started.
The reader is taken into the early 20th century and experiences the prejudices, hardship, love, and loyalty of the Italian immigrant. There's a social worker that visits Julietta's house who rails against the fact that they eat so many vegetables and not enough meat (thank goodness Julietta's mother doesn't understand English, else she would beat the worker over the head with her soup ladle).
Madame Fortier is the type of woman that most readers will love - strong-willed, hard-working, kind-at-heart, with a back story that unfolds slowly. She has made huge personal sacrifices for love.
What a wonderful story. I found myself very interested in all of the girls, and crossing my fingers for love to find them and for things to work out well. I had a vague understanding of the prejudices that Italian immigrants encountered, but this book gave me a better understanding and at times made my heart ache.
A very sweet (but not saccharine) tale lies within these pages. The touches of humor make it even better.
Now for a little aside: it's classified as Christan fiction, and sometimes I have a difficult time with that label. Is it because all of the girls were Catholic and their journeys to confession play a part in the novel? Is it because it's a clean read? I would personally label this one as historical fiction. This is my first experience with Siri Mitchell's writing, but I would definitely go back for more.
QUOTES:
Mama was going to make her do it? She was going to make her own daughter cross the street and deal with Sicilians? Annamaria had always done everything and anything that her mother had ever asked, but buying tomatoes from Sicilians?
You see, it's all very well and good to judge and moralize, but there are some whose morale has been broken. And for these, sometimes, we just have to let them survive, in hopes that one day they will decide to do more than survive.
They weren't supposed to speak. No self-respecting Avellinesi should speak to a Sicilian. And they could not meet, except for Annamaria's trips to the frutta e verdura, but no one could stop them from staring out the window at each other, if they chose to, of a night. And so they did.
Writing: 4 out of 5 stars
Plot: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Characters: 4 out of 5 stars
Reading Immersion: 4 out 5 stars
BOOK RATING: 4.1 out of 5 stars
Three girls, all Italian immigrants, but with very different personal stories. They all work at Madame Fortier's Gown Shop. Madame Fortier isn't really French, but the prejudices against her people keep her close-mouthed about her Italian heritage.
Julietta Giordano is 18 years old. Her specialty is embroidery. Her large Italian family is hard-working and all of their pay goes directly to their father. Julietta is looking for fun, and she has her eye on just the young man to make it happen. She's a bit selfish and very impetuous, and she doesn't realize that you shouldn't always get what you wish for.
Annamaria Rossi is the oldest girl in her family, and as such, she is expected not to marry and to take care of her parents in their old age. Her specialty is smocking. She is an obedient girl, but she can't help herself; she wonders WHY she has to give up her whole life to take care of everyone else? Why can't ALL of the family help take care of her parents?
Luciana Conti escaped Italy with her grandmother after the assassination of her father, the Count of Roma. The Contessa is immobilized by her grief, and the money is running out. Luciana's excellent beadwork will be the key to keeping food in the house; but who will look after her grandmother while she is working? When she sees the anarchist that killed her father on the streets of Boston, she knows that she can't let anyone know who she really is, or he will finish the job he started.
The reader is taken into the early 20th century and experiences the prejudices, hardship, love, and loyalty of the Italian immigrant. There's a social worker that visits Julietta's house who rails against the fact that they eat so many vegetables and not enough meat (thank goodness Julietta's mother doesn't understand English, else she would beat the worker over the head with her soup ladle).
Madame Fortier is the type of woman that most readers will love - strong-willed, hard-working, kind-at-heart, with a back story that unfolds slowly. She has made huge personal sacrifices for love.
What a wonderful story. I found myself very interested in all of the girls, and crossing my fingers for love to find them and for things to work out well. I had a vague understanding of the prejudices that Italian immigrants encountered, but this book gave me a better understanding and at times made my heart ache.
A very sweet (but not saccharine) tale lies within these pages. The touches of humor make it even better.
Now for a little aside: it's classified as Christan fiction, and sometimes I have a difficult time with that label. Is it because all of the girls were Catholic and their journeys to confession play a part in the novel? Is it because it's a clean read? I would personally label this one as historical fiction. This is my first experience with Siri Mitchell's writing, but I would definitely go back for more.
QUOTES:
Mama was going to make her do it? She was going to make her own daughter cross the street and deal with Sicilians? Annamaria had always done everything and anything that her mother had ever asked, but buying tomatoes from Sicilians?
You see, it's all very well and good to judge and moralize, but there are some whose morale has been broken. And for these, sometimes, we just have to let them survive, in hopes that one day they will decide to do more than survive.
They weren't supposed to speak. No self-respecting Avellinesi should speak to a Sicilian. And they could not meet, except for Annamaria's trips to the frutta e verdura, but no one could stop them from staring out the window at each other, if they chose to, of a night. And so they did.
Writing: 4 out of 5 stars
Plot: 4.5 out of 5 stars
Characters: 4 out of 5 stars
Reading Immersion: 4 out 5 stars
BOOK RATING: 4.1 out of 5 stars
July 21, 2011
The elegance of Madame Forza's gown shop is a far cry from the downtrodden North End of Boston. Yet each day Julietta, Annamaria, and Luciana enter the world of the upper class, working on finery for the elite in society. The three beauties each long to break free of their obligations and embrace the American dream--and their chance for love. But the ways of the heart are difficult to discern at times. Julietta is drawn to the swarthy, mysterious Angelo. Annamaria has a star-crossed encounter with the grocer's son, a man from the entirely wrong family. And through no intent of her own, Luciana catches the eye of Billy Quinn, the son of Madame Forza's most important client. Their destinies intertwined, each harboring a secret from their families and each other, will they be found worthy of the love they seek? [Amazon Product Description]
Mrs. Mitchell has done it again. I knew before I even started this book that it was going to be amazing. And oh my heart- it was. I love how she writes; I always come away with some pieces of new knowledge. All her books are about things in history I never would have known about otherwise. My mother (aka my teacher) would be so proud of her.
This one didn’t take place in Queen Elizabeth’s court (see A Constant Heart) or tell the tale of a debutant who loses her place in society (see She Walks in Beauty). It didn’t even explore forbidden love (well, it did a little…see Love’s Pursuit)! No, this novel whisked us off to Boston, year 1918. It told us the stories of three very different Italian girls following the same dream, but in very different ways. But of course, I’ll leave it up to you to find out how it all turns out in the end.
I loved all the girls, but Annamaria was the one I could relate to the most. Her story was definitely the best of the three…ah, who doesn’t like a little forbidden love thrown in every once in a while? “Where are you going?” “To get some tomatoes!” Her story reminded me of Romeo and Juliet. And…*sigh* Rafaello. He was way more romantic than the other two guys…by a long shot! Mentioning the other guys, I hated Angelo from the very first page. He sickened me. And Julietta was so blind to his true character, like so many girls are today. I actually know a girl that’s a “Julietta,” flirting with danger. And Mauro…he just seemed so…emotionless. I wish I had seen him express his love for Julietta more…he really didn’t convince me at all. He needed a lesson from Billy Quinn, I think. But then again, the last thing Julietta needed was another guy pursuing her relentlessly. She needed a level-headed guy and a balanced relationship. She had to make up her mind between passionate love and practical love. She had to decide between want and need and choose what was best for her. That brings me to another point: Julietta’s story showed that love is not always passionate. It can be, but not always. Love is based on mutual respect and admiration, too; not only physical attraction. Mauro was perfect for Julietta- she was wild and he was practical. They say that opposites attract…
To sum it all up, I loved A Heart Most Worthy. It was intriguing and entertaining as well as educating. I don’t think it quite measured up to one of Mrs. Mitchell’s other book, Love’s Pursuit (that one set me of fire!) but it was amazing just as well.
And Madonna Mia! I almost forgot! The cover! I am so lusting after that gown… Happy Reading!
Quick Content Review:
Profanity: None
Violence: None
Sexual: None (Julietta kisses Angelo a couple times, and it’s mentioned that he kisses her neck. He tries to persuade her to sleep with him in exchange for him returning Mrs. Quinn’s jewels, but he gets a better idea instead. Nothing is described.)
Mrs. Mitchell has done it again. I knew before I even started this book that it was going to be amazing. And oh my heart- it was. I love how she writes; I always come away with some pieces of new knowledge. All her books are about things in history I never would have known about otherwise. My mother (aka my teacher) would be so proud of her.
This one didn’t take place in Queen Elizabeth’s court (see A Constant Heart) or tell the tale of a debutant who loses her place in society (see She Walks in Beauty). It didn’t even explore forbidden love (well, it did a little…see Love’s Pursuit)! No, this novel whisked us off to Boston, year 1918. It told us the stories of three very different Italian girls following the same dream, but in very different ways. But of course, I’ll leave it up to you to find out how it all turns out in the end.
I loved all the girls, but Annamaria was the one I could relate to the most. Her story was definitely the best of the three…ah, who doesn’t like a little forbidden love thrown in every once in a while? “Where are you going?” “To get some tomatoes!” Her story reminded me of Romeo and Juliet. And…*sigh* Rafaello. He was way more romantic than the other two guys…by a long shot! Mentioning the other guys, I hated Angelo from the very first page. He sickened me. And Julietta was so blind to his true character, like so many girls are today. I actually know a girl that’s a “Julietta,” flirting with danger. And Mauro…he just seemed so…emotionless. I wish I had seen him express his love for Julietta more…he really didn’t convince me at all. He needed a lesson from Billy Quinn, I think. But then again, the last thing Julietta needed was another guy pursuing her relentlessly. She needed a level-headed guy and a balanced relationship. She had to make up her mind between passionate love and practical love. She had to decide between want and need and choose what was best for her. That brings me to another point: Julietta’s story showed that love is not always passionate. It can be, but not always. Love is based on mutual respect and admiration, too; not only physical attraction. Mauro was perfect for Julietta- she was wild and he was practical. They say that opposites attract…
To sum it all up, I loved A Heart Most Worthy. It was intriguing and entertaining as well as educating. I don’t think it quite measured up to one of Mrs. Mitchell’s other book, Love’s Pursuit (that one set me of fire!) but it was amazing just as well.
And Madonna Mia! I almost forgot! The cover! I am so lusting after that gown… Happy Reading!
Quick Content Review:
Profanity: None
Violence: None
Sexual: None (Julietta kisses Angelo a couple times, and it’s mentioned that he kisses her neck. He tries to persuade her to sleep with him in exchange for him returning Mrs. Quinn’s jewels, but he gets a better idea instead. Nothing is described.)
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