A review by theboundless_bookworm
The Sicilian Inheritance by Jo Piazza

emotional hopeful inspiring mysterious reflective sad medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

 

As soon as the book’s final words appeared, I bothered to read the Author’s note and learned how her great-grandmother inspired the story. From deep within the confines of my heart came an envious longing to rummage through my family history for a remarkable story that would one day set me off writing the foundation of my novel. Undoubtedly, the book becomes more exciting and magical when creativity meets historical accuracy. 

The story follows Sara Marsala, whose life seemingly crumbles around her – a failed restaurant, the mess surrounding her divorce, and her fight for her child’s custody. When Sara’s late great-aunt sets her off to Sicily to discover the truth about her great-grandmother, Serafina, she has no choice but to grant that final wish. But she did not suspect the plight that awaited her in the village of Caltabellessa – one that endangers her as she uncovers the truth about her matriarch’s murder.

“The Sicilian Inheritance” weaves a tale with a well-researched account of the migration of Sicilian men to America in the 1900s, the influence of the Cosa Nostra, particularly its impact on the lives of the ordinary Sicilians, all while shedding light on the resilience of the alleged “white widows of Sicily.” How the author depicts historical details with parallel timelines and dual narration, with an expert interweaving of vivid imagery, adds to the novel’s depth and comprehensive understanding of the characters.

The juxtaposition of Sara’s pursuit of the truth against the backdrop of a foreign land rich in history is more than enough to persuade the readers. It doesn’t just tell a fictional story; it lays down bits and pieces of Sicilian history meant to be shared. The result is a powerful testament to the indomitable spirits of the women of Sicily who stood in solidarity against the socio-economic circumstances that befell them when left to their own devices. 

Historical fiction will always be the genre I will keep digesting for emotional connection. “The Sicilian Inheritance” is a much-needed emotional serotonin that humanizes one aspect of Sicilian history. Its “mystery arc” inclusion is a reminder that behind the beauty of a landscape, it is not without its dark secrets. This book is, without a doubt, a celebration of women in a patriarchal society. It evokes anger, remorse, and, at times, a moral assessment of certain unethical decisions, yet not without its justifiable reasons.  

Overall, this book changed how I see things, and I hope it does the same for you. It made me understand specific nuances and complexities in a culture unlike mine, weighing the circumstances women face in a society that is rife with discrimination. One thing is evident with every page turn: women’s part in history does not begin and end with fulfilling societal-dictated roles; it is a call for change. 

Thank you #NetGalley and #Dutton for the opportunity to read this book in advance in exchange for my own, and unbiased opinion.