Being a voracious reader with endless literary options is better than being a kid in a candy store. How we choose our next read: a friend's recommendation, a website's reviews, a favorite author's latest release, a description that sounds promising, or even a fascinating cover...all these things can lead to being completely enthralled with a creative and talented writer's storytelling. Several of these reasons led me to select The Shoemaker's Wife. I adored Adriana Trigiani's Big Stone Gap Series. The ratings on Goodreads and elsewhere are very positive. The book's description was alluring. I wanted to meet Ciro and Enza; their friends and family - to accompany them on their separate journeys to America and their paths to creating a family, home, and business.

I was captivated with the estimable principal characters and the vividly described locations. I enjoyed the sequence and pace of the book. I was also taken with the character's subtle realizations and the quiet introduction of gadgetry as the book progressed. The chance meetings between Ciro and Enza had a magical quality. Their cherished friendships were touching. Their dedication to their chosen crafts and hard work to obtain their goals was inspiring. Through the triumphs and tragedy, the love and loss, this book is a moving masterpiece!