I thought I would share a new book with you called Italian American: Jack & Mariella’s journey continues… by Luigina Vecchione (Author) that I received a PDF copy from Voracious Readers and the Author in exchange for this review. Inside this post is my affiliate links if you click on the links and make a purchase I will make a small percentage from the items you purchase.
I wish I had knew was part of a series and that it is the second book because I would have purchased Greetings from Asbury Park: Based on a true story of love, sacrifice and redemption during World War Two to read first although they can be read as stand-alone books telling the true story of the characters in the 1950’s. The story is about a Italian American and the trials and tribulations of Mariella’s acceptance into an unknown culture and her new family’s dynamics while enduring the pain of leaving her old family back in Italy.
Some years after first meeting Jack, an American GI while selling postcards at the Colosseum in post World War II Rome, Jack finally returns to whisk Mariella away to the United States as his bride. Things are not easy for Mariella as she attempts to adjust to life in a new land, far away from her loving family and Mariella succumbs to waves of homesickness, all the while dealing with a difficult mother-in-law and catty acquaintances. The only downfall to the story is not finding out why Mariella’s mother in law dislikes her.
Mariella and Jack’s love story continues as the couple creates a home in Asbury Park, New Jersey, where Jack’s family owns a restaurant. As a post-World War II immigrant, Mariella deals with jealousy from other women. Mariella’s love for Jack and her desire to incorporate Italian customs with American ways motivate her.
I enjoyed hearing about foods including afternoon Espresso to Cherries Jubilee, and Spaghetti with Lobster to Cheeseburgers on the grill, which I plan on creating for my girlfriends as I want to invite them over and introduce them to the Author and this book which I believe all women should read.
About the book:
Nine years after their fateful meeting at the Colosseum in Rome, Mariella is ready to start a life in America with her husband, Jack. But this means leaving her family, her beloved City, and all she holds dear. Will their love endure the challenges of adapting to a new Country?
The cobblestones felt familiar beneath Mariella’s feet as she made her way through the streets of Rome one final time, but her heart ached with each step she took. Emigrating to America means saying goodbye to a family she fiercely loves, a City still bearing the scars of war and ghosts of the past. But the promise of a lifetime by Jack’s side is all she needs.
When they arrive, Mariella’s dreams quickly fracture. She struggles for a sense of belonging while navigating gossiping housewives and a disapproving mother-in-law. And with Jack working late night hours at the restaurant, she often longs for his company.
Yet, once they move into their charming house in Wanamassa Gardens, Mariella finds her footing. Friendships flourish, and their family grows, giving her hope for a future in their idyllic corner of suburbia. Just as her dreams become reality, a heartbreaking call forces her to return to Italy and confront the decisions that led her across the Atlantic.
With so much at stake, Mariella must choose between the place she’s always known and the life she’s always yearned for. Can she find the strength to say farewell to her family once again? What will it cost her if she can’t?
ITALIAN AMERICAN is a tale of hope, sacrifices, and the unbreakable spirit of women who shape their destinies.
Meet the Author: Luigina Vecchione
Luigina Vecchione is an actor and a writer. She’s lived, worked and raised a family on both coasts and in Europe. Now she is empty nesting with her husband in New York City. This is her debut novel.
Thank you,
Glenda, Charlie and David Cates
