Book Review: The Florios of Sicily by Stefania Auci

Book Review: The Florios of Sicily by Stefania Auci (2020) 4 Stars **** Historical Fiction

Beginning with the devastating earthquake in southern Italy in 1799, this three generational saga follows the Florio family as they flee Bagnara, Calabria for the dream they hope to realize in Sicily. While the story is fictitious, the characters and events are inspired by real people and actual incidents. This internationally acclaimed author takes us to the 1860s in the context of Sicilian history and the painful unification of Italy.

We meet brothers Paolo and Ignacio Florio in 1799 after the earthquake that has just killed their parents and relatives, and devastated their town. Harsh, forceful, abrupt, demanding Paolo marries Giuseppina in a marriage arranged by her parents, while gentle, soft-spoken Ignacio is secretly in love with her. The three leave what little family is still alive, and head to Sicily with intentions of trading in the much coveted spice trade.

With hard work, determination, and fair business practices, the brothers gradually increase their wealth and standing in the community. Despite their expensive clothing and the power they wield, there are those who look down upon them as laborers and will not give them respect for all they have achieved.

Paolo and his bitter wife Giuseppina make their son Vincenzo the light of their lives and the reason for their existence. Growing up spoiled and self-serving, Vincenzo finds love with Giulia but does not publicly honor her until a son is finally born to the  brilliant mind. He sees the injustice surrounding him, has a highly developed conscience, and basically always does the right thing.

The spice business expands into sulfur, textiles, marsala wine, medicinal herbs, shipping, and banking. Despite their wealth, this family is plagued by self-destructive, unforgiving people. The book cover might make you think they live a charmed life. Not true at all. There is so much unnecessary self-imposed misery that the characters are depressed and depressing.

The plight of women is especially sad because they have no say in their lives and no power over decisions made, which often serve someone’s agenda, but has little connection with their best interests.

So many characters! The book has been translated from Italian and is often plodding, literal, and without voice. You will be happy you are not a member of the Florio family. Their hearts are heavy, their minds troubled, and their souls always searching. This book would make an excellent resource for women’s studies.

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I wish you all a life inspired by the wonder of the world around us. May you find and live your truth, in harmony with people, nature and the environment. May you be a force for good and a source of love and comfort. May the world be a better place for you having lived and loved here.

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