Publisher's Synopsis
A fictional narrative based on historical fact that tells one woman's heart-wrenching, yet ultimately heart-warming, story of hardship, love, passion, and motherhood during World War II. When Edith Maguire is caught up in the trials and tribulations of her Italian neighbours following Britain's internment policy of 1940, her life appears to be transformed.
Edith's story is interwoven with observations and recollections by her two adult sons, which slowly but surely release hidden memories and reveal long-held secrets. The intricacies of familial relations and the omnipresence of war are brilliantly illuminated by two generations - mother and sons - in this ground-breaking work of fiction.
Zoomer Magazine "Smith evocatively and sensitively probes the internment of Britain's Italians during WWII. As their story unfolds, one woman's secrets and life-altering choices are slowly and tantalizingly revealed."
Michelle Alfano, 'Made Up of Arias' "The book starts gradually, this brushstroke, that brushstroke, then kicks in. The two time zones - England 1940, Venice 2002 - each get stronger, then at the very end, come together - the sons 60 and Edith now 80, brilliantly handled. Made me cry, that last chapter. A good book can do that."
Richard Halperin, 'Anniversary' "Andrew Smith weaves a spellbinding story of love and war - of remembering and secrets - that transcends time to explore the triumph of the human spirit over heartbreaking events."
Wayne Hurlburt, Book Blogger "Smith is a sure hand with capturing the way human experience is shaped by tragedy and exceptional circumstance."
Online Portfolio of Marcy Koopmans
