BOOK BY: Angela Shupe
A fascinating read about the horrors of WW2 in lesser known theaters of war – Italy and the Philippines.
Caramina and Rosa are sisters with exceptional soprano voices who both dream of singing on the European stages before war grips their sides of the world. Rosa is living in Italy with her famous soprano grandmother, studying at the Florence Conservatory while Cara remains in the Philippines, and is still too young to begin her training at the age of fourteen. The novel splits page time between them.
With Rosa’s story, readers will learn much of what transpired during Mussolini’s years, and how the issue of racism affected not only Jews, but those who were of mixed blood. There’s intrigue, romance, and intense moments throughout Rosa’s time in Italy. As the war progresses, it becomes evident there are few she can trust and too many characters to avoid.
In Caramina’s story, readers are exposed to the raw detail and somewhat graphic pictures of what it was like to hide from the invading Japanese army. A well-kept family secret slowly unravels through the years of occupation, leaving the family reeling from what they uncover. Conflict and tension abound in Cara’s story.
The narrative descriptions are beautifully done, pulling readers into the jungles of the Philippines and the streets of Florence. Some characters are completely endearing, while others are pure evil. There are some graphic depictions of the Japanese brothels and torture of prisoners, but a beautiful message of hope.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.