I enjoyed this emotional story that covers a six year period that begins in Sicily, 1939 and ends in the same locale in 1945 with sections set in a few locations in the United States. As noted by the dates, this is a World War Two novel but one that focuses on parts of history I have not read about as often in Historical Fiction. Although Concetta and Gaetano, who tell the story from their viewpoints, are fictional characters, they were inspired by the author’s grandparents by the same names. It was lovely to read that The Last Letter from Sicily is motivated by family history as these types of stories are often extra special because they are written with such passion and care. This is truly a touching tribute that certainly honours the Sicilians who suffered and sacrificed much in the Second World War but even more so, highlights a tender romance that stood the test of time, distance and war.
Concetta’s story begins and ends in Porticello, Sicily with years away living in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, United States with her family. We see her devotion to her parents but she particularly tries to abide by her father’s wishes. Yet, at what point must she draw the line when it begins to affect her future happiness? In the meantime, through a friend’s recommendation, she gets hired to work in a dress factory (sewing). One of her goals is to save a little money for a ticket so she can return to Sicily and her beloved. But she also takes on extra hours to help support the family while her father, Enzo, tries to find work as a carpenter. He struggles initially to get noticed for his skills but eventually teams up with another man from Sicily who has an established business. Their families get to know each other and Concetta dates this man’s son—even though her heart is still focused on Gaetano. Many issues arise as this fellow’s ideas of a women’s place are different from her own. He believes women should be housewives. While she wants to be a Math teacher.
Meanwhile Concetta battles issues at work: her boss makes advances on her. She is hemmed in by prejudice, harassment and obligation. Dealing with pressure from her father, Enzo, to marry a man she does not love, leads her to an engagement that will surely end in heartache, if she does not get the courage to call it off. For her heart still belongs to Gaetano in Sicily. Will the promise they made to each other be fulfilled? Or will war, distance and her father keep them apart?
The journey for this couple certainly was a difficult one with many challenges. After Concetta moved to Wisconsin with her family, Gaetano is shipped off to war. We follow his movements, the losses of his comrades, his time as a war prisoner, being shipped off to various locations and ending up in a place he would never expect. Throughout this time, he clings to the promise of seeing Concetta again and marrying her—even when he is tempted by another. There are some lovely poetic lines that describe the couple’s favourite Sicilian location. Plus the feelings between them are often displayed beautifully in their letters.
The horrors of war are visible enough in this novel to give us a clear picture of what it was like for the Sicilians but the love that carries this couple across time is quite moving and memorable. I liked the ending when order is restored and dreams are realised. The Last Letter from Sicily is a strong historical fiction novel that many will appreciate. It definitely will pull on readers with sensitive heart strings! 4 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC.
