The Caves of San Pietro by Susan Gayle
TITLE INFORMATION
The Caves of San Pietro
Susan Gayle
Black Rose Writing, 258 pages
9781684337392, 8.19.21
BOOK REVIEW
Overall Rating = 4.42
Storyline & Concept = 4.5
Writing & Delivery = 4.25
Editorial = 4.5
Frank Moster is in the heart of the action when he survives the landing of his platoon on the beach in Salerno, Italy, during World War II. In the homeland of his birth parents, he becomes involved with an Italian family who are victims of the German occupation, and he develops special ties with them. Apart from their shared experiences in Italy, of particular interest to the family is Frank’s tale of traveling with his brother from Texas to New York City by bicycle and the life-changing experiences they had along the way.
This story is a vivid and well-written account of the battles and the heartbreak of the war in Italy. It is also a story of determination, grit, love, and the bonds of brotherhood and families. Susan Gayle invites us into the heart and mind of Frank, a courageous and engaging character. We see the violence, the losses, and the triumphs through his eyes, and we experience the settings in the author’s colorful style. The historical references, both abroad and in the States, are well-done, and not to be missed is the author’s note at the end of the novel. It literally gave me chills. This is a highly recommended historical read.
Sublime Line: “The Caves of San Pietro is a well-written and researched novel that takes us into the extraordinary life of a wartime hero who unites two families from two different worlds.”
Sublime Book Review
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www.sublimebookreview.com
