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The Italian Party
A delicious and sharply funny page-turner about "innocent" Americans abroad in 1950s Siena, Italy. Newly married, Scottie and Michael are seduced by Tuscany's famous beauty. But the secrets they are keeping from each other force them beneath the splendid surface to a more complex view of ltaly, America and each other.
When Scottie's Italian teacher--a teenager with secrets of his own--disappears, her search for him leads her to discover other, darker truths about herself, her husband and her country. Michael's dedication to saving the world from communism crumbles as he begins to see that he is a pawn in a much different game. Driven apart by lies, Michael and Scottie must find their way through a maze of history, memory, hate and love to a new kind of complicated truth.
Half glamorous fun, half an examination of America's role in the world, and filled with sun-dappled pasta lunches, prosecco, charming spies and horse racing, The Italian Party is a smart pleasure.
When Scottie's Italian teacher--a teenager with secrets of his own--disappears, her search for him leads her to discover other, darker truths about herself, her husband and her country. Michael's dedication to saving the world from communism crumbles as he begins to see that he is a pawn in a much different game. Driven apart by lies, Michael and Scottie must find their way through a maze of history, memory, hate and love to a new kind of complicated truth.
Half glamorous fun, half an examination of America's role in the world, and filled with sun-dappled pasta lunches, prosecco, charming spies and horse racing, The Italian Party is a smart pleasure.
336 pages, Hardcover
First published March 20, 2018
211 people are currently reading
3327 people want to read
About the author
Christina Lynch
5 books277 followersChristina Lynch is the author of Pony Confidential, a comic mystery (Berkley, 2024). She's also the author of The Italian Party and Sally Brady's Italian Adventure (St. Martin's, 2018 and 2023), and she's the co-author of two novels under the pen name Magnus Flyte: City of Dark Magic and City of Lost Dreams (Penguin, 2012 and 2013) .
Christina lives in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada with two dogs, three horses and two ponies, and teaches at a community college in central California. She is happy to answer your questions about Italy, writing, horses and ponies, or how to keep your dog off the sofa (answer: don't even try).
Christina lives in the foothills of the Sierra Nevada with two dogs, three horses and two ponies, and teaches at a community college in central California. She is happy to answer your questions about Italy, writing, horses and ponies, or how to keep your dog off the sofa (answer: don't even try).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 504 reviews
March 28, 2018
Between 3.5 and 4, rounded up.
On its surface, Christina Lynch's The Italian Party is like a fancy dessert—it's lovely to look at, but you aren't sure if there will be any substance beneath the decorative frills. But when you dig in, you realize there's more to it than meets the eye.
Newlyweds Scottie and Michael leave America to move to Siena, Italy, where Michael will be selling Ford tractors to Italian farmers, to get them to start absorbing American culture. It's the 1950s, not long after World War II, and there are signs that Italy is ripe for the influence of Communism, something that America fears.
Scottie and Michael don't really know each other that well—they married fairly quickly, and each made assumptions about the other. Scottie left her studies at Vassar (she wasn't much of a student anyway, and feels good about getting her "MRS." degree), and doesn't want Michael to know that before marrying him she was mostly interested in celebrity gossip, fashion, and horses. Meanwhile, Michael is all too happy to flee his parents' unhappy marriage and the memories of an older brother who died in the war, a brother who wasn't very nice to him anyway.
Neither is really sure how to make a marriage work, and both have major secrets they're hiding from the other. Michael is ostensibly "working" in Rome quite a bit, or he's at his office trying to sell tractors to reluctant Italians, which leaves her home alone, without much knowledge of Italian or anyone to talk with. It leaves her vulnerable to the attentions of other men, so in an effort to help her cope, Michael encourages a teenage boy from the community, Robertino, to teach her Italian.
When Robertino disappears, Scottie is determined to find out what happened to him, and she becomes a thorn in the side of those supposedly investigating his case. The deeper she digs, the more secrets she uncovers—about her husband, his job, their marriage, and their purpose for being in Italy. While these secrets throw her completely off-guard and make her wonder what she should do, they also ignite a passion within her, a passion to make things right in a city she has come to love.
"Italy was not carefree and sexy like they made it seem in Roman Holiday. It was dense and mysterious and dangerous and confusing."
Novels taking place in Italy, like Jess Walter's Beautiful Ruins or Delia Ephron's Siracusa , tend to charm me, because their setting often seems so magical and glamorous. That charm worked for me with The Italian Party as well. I thought Lynch did a good job juxtaposing the frivolous and serious, interjecting elements of history with the story of a relationship built on secrets and lies.
At times my attention wavered a bit, when the characters stopped to lecture each other a bit about history and politics, but for the most part, I really enjoyed this. Lynch definitely kept me guessing—even though many elements seem familiar, the way she put them together made the story compelling. Her characters are flawed yet fascinating, and she did a terrific job with imagery and details. Oh, and if you read this with an empty stomach, man, you'll be hungry!!
I was intrigued by this book when I saw a number of my Goodreads friends reading it, and even though their opinions were mixed, I really wanted to read it. I enjoyed it—it's not perfect, but it's a compelling, well-written read, with lots of twists and turns.
Ciao, bella!!
On its surface, Christina Lynch's The Italian Party is like a fancy dessert—it's lovely to look at, but you aren't sure if there will be any substance beneath the decorative frills. But when you dig in, you realize there's more to it than meets the eye.
Newlyweds Scottie and Michael leave America to move to Siena, Italy, where Michael will be selling Ford tractors to Italian farmers, to get them to start absorbing American culture. It's the 1950s, not long after World War II, and there are signs that Italy is ripe for the influence of Communism, something that America fears.
Scottie and Michael don't really know each other that well—they married fairly quickly, and each made assumptions about the other. Scottie left her studies at Vassar (she wasn't much of a student anyway, and feels good about getting her "MRS." degree), and doesn't want Michael to know that before marrying him she was mostly interested in celebrity gossip, fashion, and horses. Meanwhile, Michael is all too happy to flee his parents' unhappy marriage and the memories of an older brother who died in the war, a brother who wasn't very nice to him anyway.
Neither is really sure how to make a marriage work, and both have major secrets they're hiding from the other. Michael is ostensibly "working" in Rome quite a bit, or he's at his office trying to sell tractors to reluctant Italians, which leaves her home alone, without much knowledge of Italian or anyone to talk with. It leaves her vulnerable to the attentions of other men, so in an effort to help her cope, Michael encourages a teenage boy from the community, Robertino, to teach her Italian.
When Robertino disappears, Scottie is determined to find out what happened to him, and she becomes a thorn in the side of those supposedly investigating his case. The deeper she digs, the more secrets she uncovers—about her husband, his job, their marriage, and their purpose for being in Italy. While these secrets throw her completely off-guard and make her wonder what she should do, they also ignite a passion within her, a passion to make things right in a city she has come to love.
"Italy was not carefree and sexy like they made it seem in Roman Holiday. It was dense and mysterious and dangerous and confusing."
Novels taking place in Italy, like Jess Walter's Beautiful Ruins or Delia Ephron's Siracusa , tend to charm me, because their setting often seems so magical and glamorous. That charm worked for me with The Italian Party as well. I thought Lynch did a good job juxtaposing the frivolous and serious, interjecting elements of history with the story of a relationship built on secrets and lies.
At times my attention wavered a bit, when the characters stopped to lecture each other a bit about history and politics, but for the most part, I really enjoyed this. Lynch definitely kept me guessing—even though many elements seem familiar, the way she put them together made the story compelling. Her characters are flawed yet fascinating, and she did a terrific job with imagery and details. Oh, and if you read this with an empty stomach, man, you'll be hungry!!
I was intrigued by this book when I saw a number of my Goodreads friends reading it, and even though their opinions were mixed, I really wanted to read it. I enjoyed it—it's not perfect, but it's a compelling, well-written read, with lots of twists and turns.
Ciao, bella!!
February 12, 2018
NO JUICY SPOILERS
It’s tempting to want to share spoilers - however- this sexy-romantic-historical fiction comical spy story with secrets that keep coming and coming - is such delightful entertainment—that personally - I suggest JUST READ IT —skip reviews until AFTER you’ve read it. The surprises are a comic-tragic-kick-of-fun.....pushing your curiosity buttons as to how and the heck are these guys going to weasel out of these situations.
This novel is a delicious adventure from start to finish. Oh....and hungry? You’re in Italy for goodness sake.. the best Italian cuisine in the world! I had the best laugh when a can of Del Monte peaches, topped with whipped cream with a maraschino cherry on top ( as seen in the June issue of LIFE), was ‘desired’ ( American canned food) over ‘anything’ Italian. Instead of Gelato? Really? Gotta laugh!
“The Italian Party” is filled with hanky panky enjoyment.
The secrets that American newlyweds Scottie and Michael have kept from each other adds lots of chuckling to Christina Lynch’s debut novel.
There was much that Michael and Scottie didn’t know about each other—yet this handsome American couple ( he always dressed nicely in a cut suit with a camera around his neck -and she a blond knockout always in an elegant hat and pearl choker) —-glided into Siena, Italy....( 1956)...looking charismatic as if they were a royal couple: “young, healthy, wealthy, and in love”.
Michael felt as if he had won the lottery when Scottie agreed to marry him- A Vassar girl from a good family out in California. “And the best part was, she wasn’t smart. Because that’s what Michael wanted. What he needed.”
Michael was from the Bronx.
“Scottie was taught that a woman likes to feel beautiful, and a man likes to feel superior”.
Scottie, too, felt like she won the lottery when she married Michael: A Yale Handsome sensitive man with an artistic soul. She thought of Michael as compassionate- having endured the tragedy of losing his brother. He wasn’t wealthy but he was hard working and had a good job with a Ford tractor agency....(so he told her).
Actually - Michael didn’t work for Ford—( coming to Siena to open a Ford Office) —It was only his cover job. His real job was to secretly make sure Catholic party candidate, Gianni Manganelli, won the Siena mayoral election.
Michael, unbeknownst to Scottie, was working for the CIA. His purpose was to make sure the Communist mayor, Ugo, was defeated.
Michael was on a top secret mission. Clare Boothe Luce, American ambassador to Italy was counting on Michael to sway the election so that Western civilization didn’t come tumbling down. “Sway the election”.....Hm? Seems we’ve read about this news in our own more current events — seems history really does repeat itself.
I learned a little more about the Cold War - and the 1950’s when communism was grabbing hold of the country - and the influence the United States had over local politics.
There are many colorful -wonderful characters that I haven’t even mentioned - ( with their secrets and drama)- subplots - horse racing - sex - mystery - politics - crime -
The heart of this story belongs to: Scottie & Michael. I found them both ADORABLE!!!
Their individual insecurities - their unhappiness - their hidden happiness - their hidden pain and grief - their flaws - their humanness touched me.
Both of them had a likable tender side.
If historical spy stories are this much fun - humorous- sweet - sexy - educational - charming - adventurous- with terrific characters - I’ll take more please!!!
Thank You St. Martin’s Press, Netgalley, and Christina ( you’re great - I look forward to your next book filled with secrets)
It’s tempting to want to share spoilers - however- this sexy-romantic-historical fiction comical spy story with secrets that keep coming and coming - is such delightful entertainment—that personally - I suggest JUST READ IT —skip reviews until AFTER you’ve read it. The surprises are a comic-tragic-kick-of-fun.....pushing your curiosity buttons as to how and the heck are these guys going to weasel out of these situations.
This novel is a delicious adventure from start to finish. Oh....and hungry? You’re in Italy for goodness sake.. the best Italian cuisine in the world! I had the best laugh when a can of Del Monte peaches, topped with whipped cream with a maraschino cherry on top ( as seen in the June issue of LIFE), was ‘desired’ ( American canned food) over ‘anything’ Italian. Instead of Gelato? Really? Gotta laugh!
“The Italian Party” is filled with hanky panky enjoyment.
The secrets that American newlyweds Scottie and Michael have kept from each other adds lots of chuckling to Christina Lynch’s debut novel.
There was much that Michael and Scottie didn’t know about each other—yet this handsome American couple ( he always dressed nicely in a cut suit with a camera around his neck -and she a blond knockout always in an elegant hat and pearl choker) —-glided into Siena, Italy....( 1956)...looking charismatic as if they were a royal couple: “young, healthy, wealthy, and in love”.
Michael felt as if he had won the lottery when Scottie agreed to marry him- A Vassar girl from a good family out in California. “And the best part was, she wasn’t smart. Because that’s what Michael wanted. What he needed.”
Michael was from the Bronx.
“Scottie was taught that a woman likes to feel beautiful, and a man likes to feel superior”.
Scottie, too, felt like she won the lottery when she married Michael: A Yale Handsome sensitive man with an artistic soul. She thought of Michael as compassionate- having endured the tragedy of losing his brother. He wasn’t wealthy but he was hard working and had a good job with a Ford tractor agency....(so he told her).
Actually - Michael didn’t work for Ford—( coming to Siena to open a Ford Office) —It was only his cover job. His real job was to secretly make sure Catholic party candidate, Gianni Manganelli, won the Siena mayoral election.
Michael, unbeknownst to Scottie, was working for the CIA. His purpose was to make sure the Communist mayor, Ugo, was defeated.
Michael was on a top secret mission. Clare Boothe Luce, American ambassador to Italy was counting on Michael to sway the election so that Western civilization didn’t come tumbling down. “Sway the election”.....Hm? Seems we’ve read about this news in our own more current events — seems history really does repeat itself.
I learned a little more about the Cold War - and the 1950’s when communism was grabbing hold of the country - and the influence the United States had over local politics.
There are many colorful -wonderful characters that I haven’t even mentioned - ( with their secrets and drama)- subplots - horse racing - sex - mystery - politics - crime -
The heart of this story belongs to: Scottie & Michael. I found them both ADORABLE!!!
Their individual insecurities - their unhappiness - their hidden happiness - their hidden pain and grief - their flaws - their humanness touched me.
Both of them had a likable tender side.
If historical spy stories are this much fun - humorous- sweet - sexy - educational - charming - adventurous- with terrific characters - I’ll take more please!!!
Thank You St. Martin’s Press, Netgalley, and Christina ( you’re great - I look forward to your next book filled with secrets)
March 21, 2018
4.5 Fantastico Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
Grande Successo! this book was an unexpected Gem for me....Siena,Italy 1956....Two Young newly married Americans.... full of secrets and hope....
Scottie and Michael are newly married.... both of them came to the marriage with many secrets and for different reasons.... Michael works for Ford selling tractors to the Italian farmers.... but he has a hidden agenda... he wants to bring the American Capitalistic ways to Italy and fight communism.....scottie is a girl that got herself in trouble and the only way she sees out is by marrying somebody and becoming the perfect wife.... so what happens when two people that hardly know each other move to a country where they don’t know anybody?
Michael and Scottie were very well-developed characters... I felt for both of them... they both really wanted to do the right thing but they both got themselves into some pretty tough situations..... situations that would not be a big deal today but this is 1956.... I really loved that this book was set during this timeperiod As well.... there are very few books that I have read set in the late 50s, and this is probably the only book I’ve read set in Italy during that time..... for me Italy itself is a character in any book I read that takes place there, it seems like such a colorful culture.... and all that delicious food!
This wasn’t a book filled with twists and turns, but it sure kept me turning the pages.... I was so invested in how Michael and Scottie were going to work this out.... how and when were secrets going to be revealed? How were people going to react? I also was fascinated with the Italian political culture at the time.... I am not a huge historical fiction person, but this was an absolutely compelling read....
Strongly recommend to fans of historical fiction or anybody who loves a good story....
*** thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for a copy of this book ***
Grande Successo! this book was an unexpected Gem for me....Siena,Italy 1956....Two Young newly married Americans.... full of secrets and hope....
Scottie and Michael are newly married.... both of them came to the marriage with many secrets and for different reasons.... Michael works for Ford selling tractors to the Italian farmers.... but he has a hidden agenda... he wants to bring the American Capitalistic ways to Italy and fight communism.....scottie is a girl that got herself in trouble and the only way she sees out is by marrying somebody and becoming the perfect wife.... so what happens when two people that hardly know each other move to a country where they don’t know anybody?
Michael and Scottie were very well-developed characters... I felt for both of them... they both really wanted to do the right thing but they both got themselves into some pretty tough situations..... situations that would not be a big deal today but this is 1956.... I really loved that this book was set during this timeperiod As well.... there are very few books that I have read set in the late 50s, and this is probably the only book I’ve read set in Italy during that time..... for me Italy itself is a character in any book I read that takes place there, it seems like such a colorful culture.... and all that delicious food!
This wasn’t a book filled with twists and turns, but it sure kept me turning the pages.... I was so invested in how Michael and Scottie were going to work this out.... how and when were secrets going to be revealed? How were people going to react? I also was fascinated with the Italian political culture at the time.... I am not a huge historical fiction person, but this was an absolutely compelling read....
Strongly recommend to fans of historical fiction or anybody who loves a good story....
*** thank you to the publisher and Net Galley for a copy of this book ***
March 20, 2018
Scottie is beautiful, broke and keeps a big secret about herself from her new husband. Michael is handsome, thought she had money and has a couple of very big secrets of his own that he keeps from his new wife. This would make a great movie as the truth slowly is revealed. Each believed the other was someone else. The reader becomes privy to the secrets early in the novel before these things are revealed to Scottie and Michael. How can this relationship survive? They are young and beautiful and have just moved to Italy and I suppose anything is possible in this place. My favorite thing about this book was Italy, a fabulous backdrop for this young couple - the food , the people and just the place. I want to go to Siena! I loved the names and the places and the food and the smattering of the beautiful language throughout.
It’s 1956 and the war is over, but the threat of communism looms over the country and in spite of this and the secrets that Scottie and Michael held, which were difficult things to deal with during those times, the lightness of the story overpowered the heavier, more serious things that were happening, especially towards the end of the novel. I can’t say that it wasn’t an enjoyable read; it was. I was engaged enough to want to know what happens with Scottie and Michael. However, it was not one that moved me enough to rate it more than three stars . I know a good number of people loved this book . I may be an outlier, so I recommend those reviews.
I received an advanced copy of this book from St. Martin’s Press through NetGalley.
It’s 1956 and the war is over, but the threat of communism looms over the country and in spite of this and the secrets that Scottie and Michael held, which were difficult things to deal with during those times, the lightness of the story overpowered the heavier, more serious things that were happening, especially towards the end of the novel. I can’t say that it wasn’t an enjoyable read; it was. I was engaged enough to want to know what happens with Scottie and Michael. However, it was not one that moved me enough to rate it more than three stars . I know a good number of people loved this book . I may be an outlier, so I recommend those reviews.
I received an advanced copy of this book from St. Martin’s Press through NetGalley.
February 27, 2018
It is 1956 and Scottie and Michael are newly married. Scottie is very young, naive, dropped out of Vassar to get married, Michael is older and likes that Scottie is young enough to be moulded. Michael is opening a Ford tractor business in Sienna and it is where he and Scottie will live for the time being. This couple don't know each other well, they both have
Secrets they are keeping from the other, and their own reasons for the marriage.
A fun read, a sort of spy romp but also much more. Although the war has been over for a while the threat of Communism looms, and many country's have agents in Italy trying to sway elections away from the Communist candidates. There is humor, much on relationships, the food and flavor of Italy, the people, the politics, past times, and horses, the palio. Every time I read the name of this Marquis, though of course in this time period using a title was not a smart move, Carlo Chigi Piccolomina, I just had to smile. What a marvelous name!
Everything sort of meshes together, in rather optimistic and mature way. My favorite part of this story though was watching Scottie change and grow. Tackle things she never thought she could, reason out things that seemed impossible, making friends, and embracing so much the couch try and city in which she finds herself. An enjoyable and interesting look at a time period fraught with political fear, and a wonderful look at a beautiful city, its customs and people.
ARC from Edelweiss and St. Martin's Press.
Secrets they are keeping from the other, and their own reasons for the marriage.
A fun read, a sort of spy romp but also much more. Although the war has been over for a while the threat of Communism looms, and many country's have agents in Italy trying to sway elections away from the Communist candidates. There is humor, much on relationships, the food and flavor of Italy, the people, the politics, past times, and horses, the palio. Every time I read the name of this Marquis, though of course in this time period using a title was not a smart move, Carlo Chigi Piccolomina, I just had to smile. What a marvelous name!
Everything sort of meshes together, in rather optimistic and mature way. My favorite part of this story though was watching Scottie change and grow. Tackle things she never thought she could, reason out things that seemed impossible, making friends, and embracing so much the couch try and city in which she finds herself. An enjoyable and interesting look at a time period fraught with political fear, and a wonderful look at a beautiful city, its customs and people.
ARC from Edelweiss and St. Martin's Press.
March 16, 2018
4 adventurous spy stars with a side of Italy! 🇮🇹 ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
The Italian Party was a fun ride through the 1950s Italian countryside. It only turned serious in the last couple chapters. Scottie and Michael are recently married, and they move to Siena so that Michael can open a business. Scottie has much growing up to do, and each of them carry secrets into their marriage.
Italy is a hotbed of politics with speculation of communism and an impending election. The dynamics of this were fascinating from a historical perspective. What I found most entertaining and interesting were the food references, as well as the humor.
Overall, the stunning landscape combined with the compelling time in history made this a satisfying read.
Thank you to Christina Lynch, St. Martin’s Press, and Netgalley for the copy to review.
The Italian Party was a fun ride through the 1950s Italian countryside. It only turned serious in the last couple chapters. Scottie and Michael are recently married, and they move to Siena so that Michael can open a business. Scottie has much growing up to do, and each of them carry secrets into their marriage.
Italy is a hotbed of politics with speculation of communism and an impending election. The dynamics of this were fascinating from a historical perspective. What I found most entertaining and interesting were the food references, as well as the humor.
Overall, the stunning landscape combined with the compelling time in history made this a satisfying read.
Thank you to Christina Lynch, St. Martin’s Press, and Netgalley for the copy to review.
April 25, 2021
5 "sonorous, sensual with a dollop of melodrama" stars !!!
7th Favorite Read of 2020 Award
I am on cloud nine after reading this absolutely divine first novel by Ms. Lynch.
1956 Siena, Italy. A young American couple newly married arrive to open a Ford Tractor franchise.
Sounds rather dull right ? Except all is a ruse. One of them is CIA. Both of them have secrets. Both of them have affairs. The love they have for each other is new but sturdy. A fourteen year old boy is both admired and exiled. He represents both the ugly and beauty of Italy. There is a Marquis, diplomats, poor old traditional Nonnas, the Brits, gay flamboyant men and nasty stylish women. This book has it all (and more)
-sentimental romance with a healthy side of melodrama
-patriotism and annual horse racing
-food, fashion, art and beauty
-both steamy illicit straight sex and hidden romantic gay passion
-espionage, intrigue, double and triple crossing
This is one of the finest first novels I have had the privilege of consuming, gobbling up, wanting more.....
Thanks Larry for leading me to this book and the author for creating this absolutely delightful first novel.
7th Favorite Read of 2020 Award
I am on cloud nine after reading this absolutely divine first novel by Ms. Lynch.
1956 Siena, Italy. A young American couple newly married arrive to open a Ford Tractor franchise.
Sounds rather dull right ? Except all is a ruse. One of them is CIA. Both of them have secrets. Both of them have affairs. The love they have for each other is new but sturdy. A fourteen year old boy is both admired and exiled. He represents both the ugly and beauty of Italy. There is a Marquis, diplomats, poor old traditional Nonnas, the Brits, gay flamboyant men and nasty stylish women. This book has it all (and more)
-sentimental romance with a healthy side of melodrama
-patriotism and annual horse racing
-food, fashion, art and beauty
-both steamy illicit straight sex and hidden romantic gay passion
-espionage, intrigue, double and triple crossing
This is one of the finest first novels I have had the privilege of consuming, gobbling up, wanting more.....
Thanks Larry for leading me to this book and the author for creating this absolutely delightful first novel.
February 28, 2018
Well, the big question here is who is concealing the most secrets, Scottie or Michael? One after another, they’re revealed to us. The newlywed couple has come to Siena, Italy, 11 years after the end of WWII. They know so little about each other, and most of what they think they know is wrong.
I felt for Scottie when she first arrives In Siena. Years ago, a group of us rented a house in Pontassieve. While most of the gang made their way from Florence to the house via train, the landlady and I spent a few hours struggling between her elementary English, my few words of Italian and a modicum of French for both of us to teach me how to use the alarm, the dishwasher and the washing machine. Luckily, the couple meets Robertino, a teen willing to teach her the language and do any other job that pays.
And as the book goes on, Lynch does a wonderful job of showing us Siena through the eyes of Michael and Scottie.
There is a dry humor here, based on each’s naivete. They are just so young! The narrative is told from multiple people’s point of view. In addition, the author injects concepts to help the reader understand someone’s mindset or move the story forward. I would love to know if the CIA’s rules to which Michael clings are factual to the time. “The rules were very clear that agents were not supposed to go native...The agency actually preferred if their people didn’t speak the language.” OMG, how did we ever win the war against Communism? And there’s always the dichotomy between American and Italian culture. And ours never comes out looking like the best way. While the book starts with a light feel to it, it gets meatier as it goes along. In the end, I was really drawn into this. I kept reading rather than save it for another day. Well done, Ms. Lynch!
My thanks to netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for an advance copy of this book.
I felt for Scottie when she first arrives In Siena. Years ago, a group of us rented a house in Pontassieve. While most of the gang made their way from Florence to the house via train, the landlady and I spent a few hours struggling between her elementary English, my few words of Italian and a modicum of French for both of us to teach me how to use the alarm, the dishwasher and the washing machine. Luckily, the couple meets Robertino, a teen willing to teach her the language and do any other job that pays.
And as the book goes on, Lynch does a wonderful job of showing us Siena through the eyes of Michael and Scottie.
There is a dry humor here, based on each’s naivete. They are just so young! The narrative is told from multiple people’s point of view. In addition, the author injects concepts to help the reader understand someone’s mindset or move the story forward. I would love to know if the CIA’s rules to which Michael clings are factual to the time. “The rules were very clear that agents were not supposed to go native...The agency actually preferred if their people didn’t speak the language.” OMG, how did we ever win the war against Communism? And there’s always the dichotomy between American and Italian culture. And ours never comes out looking like the best way. While the book starts with a light feel to it, it gets meatier as it goes along. In the end, I was really drawn into this. I kept reading rather than save it for another day. Well done, Ms. Lynch!
My thanks to netgalley and St. Martin’s Press for an advance copy of this book.
February 18, 2018
3.5 stars
Scottie and Michael are newlyweds living in Tuscany in the 1950's. What could be better! Sound like the adventure of a lifetime and in many ways, it is. But they both have secrets they are keeping from the other. They really didn't know each other for too long before they decided to get married. Michael liked that Scottie was educated at Vassar. That meant she came from money, right? She is a blonde from California and he believed she must come from a "good family." Scottie looks good on his arm. She is quite beautiful, and Michael liked the image they presented. Scottie liked that Michael was educated at Yale. He wears a sharp looking suit and is a handsome man. He is kind, intelligent and charming. Plus, he has a good job. What more could a girl ask for? Plus, Scottie has a secret and has not been forthcoming about her past as she should have been.
Michael also has secrets he is keeping from Scottie. Michael has a secret job. Scottie believes he works for the Ford company and they are in Italy, so he can do business for Ford. Michael really works for the CIA and is in Sienna to make sure a certain candidate wins the election. His goal is to make sure that the current communist leader is not re-elected. That is not his only secret.
When Scottie's Italian teacher goes missing, she learns many things. There are "truths" out there. The truths about herself, her husband, her marriage, and world affairs. When the "truths" come out how will both Michael and Scottie react? How will this affect them individually, as a married couple and as American's living abroad.
This was an enjoyable book that touches on many things. It is part humor - part drama - part romance. It touches on living abroad, living with secrets, world affairs in the 1950's, how secrets affect us, identity, duty, being true to yourself, and living a lie. I found it to be well written and engaging. Plus, the setting and the food will make you wish you were reading this book while vacationing in Italy! Plus, all the characters are likable, engaging and I felt for all of them. Both Scottie and Michael are likable, and I can't say more about them without giving away some of the plot. What I will say is that this book is charming, entertaining and well written. It's not a page turner but it will suck you in to these characters world and into their lives.
I received a copy of this book from St. Martin's press in exchange for an honest review.
See more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
Scottie and Michael are newlyweds living in Tuscany in the 1950's. What could be better! Sound like the adventure of a lifetime and in many ways, it is. But they both have secrets they are keeping from the other. They really didn't know each other for too long before they decided to get married. Michael liked that Scottie was educated at Vassar. That meant she came from money, right? She is a blonde from California and he believed she must come from a "good family." Scottie looks good on his arm. She is quite beautiful, and Michael liked the image they presented. Scottie liked that Michael was educated at Yale. He wears a sharp looking suit and is a handsome man. He is kind, intelligent and charming. Plus, he has a good job. What more could a girl ask for? Plus, Scottie has a secret and has not been forthcoming about her past as she should have been.
Michael also has secrets he is keeping from Scottie. Michael has a secret job. Scottie believes he works for the Ford company and they are in Italy, so he can do business for Ford. Michael really works for the CIA and is in Sienna to make sure a certain candidate wins the election. His goal is to make sure that the current communist leader is not re-elected. That is not his only secret.
When Scottie's Italian teacher goes missing, she learns many things. There are "truths" out there. The truths about herself, her husband, her marriage, and world affairs. When the "truths" come out how will both Michael and Scottie react? How will this affect them individually, as a married couple and as American's living abroad.
This was an enjoyable book that touches on many things. It is part humor - part drama - part romance. It touches on living abroad, living with secrets, world affairs in the 1950's, how secrets affect us, identity, duty, being true to yourself, and living a lie. I found it to be well written and engaging. Plus, the setting and the food will make you wish you were reading this book while vacationing in Italy! Plus, all the characters are likable, engaging and I felt for all of them. Both Scottie and Michael are likable, and I can't say more about them without giving away some of the plot. What I will say is that this book is charming, entertaining and well written. It's not a page turner but it will suck you in to these characters world and into their lives.
I received a copy of this book from St. Martin's press in exchange for an honest review.
See more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
March 11, 2018
I swear.....secrets, lies AND betrayals just keep on compounding throughout this entire novel!
THE ITALIAN PARTY begins in the late 1950's as a young newly married couple head off from America to Sienna, Italy to begin their new life together.
SUPER handsome Michael and SUPER beautiful Scottie are the perfect couple who have it all......or so it seems.
In reality, however, nothing is what it seems in this crazy-good story....NOT Michael NOT Scottie, nor just about anyone....aside from Ecco the dog. We have here BIG-time liars, naivety to the extreme, and some just flat out disgusting folk....take the mayor for instance....still can't believe what he did! ECK! What a cast of characters!
Enjoy some laughs, shocks, and an atmospheric page-turning tale as you watch the players make their moves and change with discovery of themselves and the truth.
Thank you St. Martin's Press via NetGalley for the widget and early reading opportunity in exchange for review.
November 14, 2020
I want a novel to take me out swimming in a deep sea. This was more a frolic in shallow waters.
Newlyweds Scottie and - I've already forgotten his name and will have to look it up - Michael arrive in Siena in 1956. They both have secrets. She's pregnant by another man and he's gay and works for the CIA. Scottie is very much this new breed of female super hero. Ridiculously idealised. She is beautiful, kind, generous, socially self-confident, uninhibited, equally at ease in the city and country and she learns fluent Italian in a matter of weeks. The only thing she can't do well is cook. The author, you could sense, loved her. In fact, what made this book for the most part enjoyable was the obvious love with which it was written, including the tourist's wide-eyed wonder of visiting Italy for the first time. It's Italy as Disneyland. You could make a case that America's interference in the internal affairs of other countries shouldn't be treated so frivolously. This novel is the equivalent of comfort food. It takes your mind off the more sinister implications of political agendas with its relentless emphasis on daily pleasures and the look of things. That said, there was some great writing about horses.
The Italian Party has an average rating here of 3.56 which is probably exactly what I'd give it if I could. Thus, I'm split between three and four stars. Because I know a year from now I will have completely forgotten it I'm rounding it down to three.
Newlyweds Scottie and - I've already forgotten his name and will have to look it up - Michael arrive in Siena in 1956. They both have secrets. She's pregnant by another man and he's gay and works for the CIA. Scottie is very much this new breed of female super hero. Ridiculously idealised. She is beautiful, kind, generous, socially self-confident, uninhibited, equally at ease in the city and country and she learns fluent Italian in a matter of weeks. The only thing she can't do well is cook. The author, you could sense, loved her. In fact, what made this book for the most part enjoyable was the obvious love with which it was written, including the tourist's wide-eyed wonder of visiting Italy for the first time. It's Italy as Disneyland. You could make a case that America's interference in the internal affairs of other countries shouldn't be treated so frivolously. This novel is the equivalent of comfort food. It takes your mind off the more sinister implications of political agendas with its relentless emphasis on daily pleasures and the look of things. That said, there was some great writing about horses.
The Italian Party has an average rating here of 3.56 which is probably exactly what I'd give it if I could. Thus, I'm split between three and four stars. Because I know a year from now I will have completely forgotten it I'm rounding it down to three.
March 20, 2018
!! NOW AVAILABLE !!
”Love is a flower
That blooms so tender
Each kiss a dew drop
Of sweet surrender
“Love is a moment
Of life enchanging
Let’s take that moment
That tonight is granting.
There’s no tomorrow
When love is new
Now is forever
When love is true
So kiss me and hold me tight
There’s no tomorrow
There’s just tonight.”
-- “There’s No Tomorrow,” (Ole Sole Mio) Dean Martin, written by Christopher Difford, Glenn Tilbrook
It is April of 1956 when this story begins in Tuscany, where two newlyweds, Michael and his wife Scottie, are driving down the Via Cassia after leaving Florence. They’ve brought with them, almost a symbol of America, a Ford Fairlane, canary yellow and white, sized for comfort, and outrunning the tiny Italian cars they were passing with ease.
How very notable to bring something with them that represents something so very American. The people that they pass can’t help but stare, and think: ”Americani”
The war had ended eleven years before, and the rebuilding going on around them was still an ongoing reminder. Scottie is taking in all the scenery as they driving, and asking her new husband questions about himself, his life. After all, they barely know each other. All she knows about him, really, is that he is handsome, well dressed in the normal attire of the times, a nice suit, and from where she sits, excellent prospects for the future. All he really knows about her is that she is stunningly pretty, twenty years old, and dresses in an effortlessly stylish fashion, typically adorned with something like the pearl choker she is wearing on this day, a hat, and a smile, and a Vassar education. A living, breathing, walking commercial for the American Way of Life. ”Gli americani” but she carried herself in a way that reflected a refinement, raffinatezza that appealed to the people of Siena, the city where the world’s first bank came to be.
Old-world charm abounds here, even though the ruins of war are visible to remind all of the recent past, the food seduces these newlyweds, lulling Scottie, especially, into believing in their marriage despite the stories they’ve each withheld from the other, the lies they’ve told one another to be where they are. Married, but without any real knowledge of who the other really is.
Secrets that needed to be kept secret are part of this story, Michael’s opened a Ford dealership to sell tractors to the local farmers, but that’s only one of his secrets.
This is a bit of a romp, with intrigue around every corner as the story progresses, and the American government concerned about Russia’s involvement in anything and everything. The era of fear of an internal infiltration of communist agendas, the fear that it would infect Americans and turn the people, the country toward communism. There’s the other side of this that is more personal, how two newlyweds who would be shunned by others if their truths were told, truths that have the potential to divide them from each other. Life was complicated in general, but living as relative strangers in a strange land complicates things more. Trust is slowly gained, and walls eventually come down, but there are surprises right up to the end.
A deliciously engaging, entertaining read.
Pub Date: 27 Mar 2018
Many thanks for the ARC provided by St. Martin’s Press
”Love is a flower
That blooms so tender
Each kiss a dew drop
Of sweet surrender
“Love is a moment
Of life enchanging
Let’s take that moment
That tonight is granting.
There’s no tomorrow
When love is new
Now is forever
When love is true
So kiss me and hold me tight
There’s no tomorrow
There’s just tonight.”
-- “There’s No Tomorrow,” (Ole Sole Mio) Dean Martin, written by Christopher Difford, Glenn Tilbrook
It is April of 1956 when this story begins in Tuscany, where two newlyweds, Michael and his wife Scottie, are driving down the Via Cassia after leaving Florence. They’ve brought with them, almost a symbol of America, a Ford Fairlane, canary yellow and white, sized for comfort, and outrunning the tiny Italian cars they were passing with ease.
How very notable to bring something with them that represents something so very American. The people that they pass can’t help but stare, and think: ”Americani”
The war had ended eleven years before, and the rebuilding going on around them was still an ongoing reminder. Scottie is taking in all the scenery as they driving, and asking her new husband questions about himself, his life. After all, they barely know each other. All she knows about him, really, is that he is handsome, well dressed in the normal attire of the times, a nice suit, and from where she sits, excellent prospects for the future. All he really knows about her is that she is stunningly pretty, twenty years old, and dresses in an effortlessly stylish fashion, typically adorned with something like the pearl choker she is wearing on this day, a hat, and a smile, and a Vassar education. A living, breathing, walking commercial for the American Way of Life. ”Gli americani” but she carried herself in a way that reflected a refinement, raffinatezza that appealed to the people of Siena, the city where the world’s first bank came to be.
Old-world charm abounds here, even though the ruins of war are visible to remind all of the recent past, the food seduces these newlyweds, lulling Scottie, especially, into believing in their marriage despite the stories they’ve each withheld from the other, the lies they’ve told one another to be where they are. Married, but without any real knowledge of who the other really is.
Secrets that needed to be kept secret are part of this story, Michael’s opened a Ford dealership to sell tractors to the local farmers, but that’s only one of his secrets.
This is a bit of a romp, with intrigue around every corner as the story progresses, and the American government concerned about Russia’s involvement in anything and everything. The era of fear of an internal infiltration of communist agendas, the fear that it would infect Americans and turn the people, the country toward communism. There’s the other side of this that is more personal, how two newlyweds who would be shunned by others if their truths were told, truths that have the potential to divide them from each other. Life was complicated in general, but living as relative strangers in a strange land complicates things more. Trust is slowly gained, and walls eventually come down, but there are surprises right up to the end.
A deliciously engaging, entertaining read.
Pub Date: 27 Mar 2018
Many thanks for the ARC provided by St. Martin’s Press
March 18, 2018
Newlyweds Michael and Scottie Messina move to Siena, Italy in 1956. Michael is operating a Ford tractor dealership as cover for his role within the CIA. His current mission is to influence the local election to ensure that the winner is not from the Communist party. Michael is leading two lives and is keeping his CIA involvement and other secrets from his wife. Scottie’s life is in transition after dropping out of school abruptly and agreeing to a quick marriage. She has secrets of her own and has not revealed to Michael that she entered the marriage while pregnant. Despite the impediments, the two truly like each other and are dedicated to making the marriage work.
Scottie spends a great deal of time alone due to Michael's busy travel schedule. She decides to learn Italian so that she can explore while Michael is away. She hires a local boy named Robertino who is well connected despite being fourteen years old. Things improve until Scottie learns that Robertino is missing. Scottie’s search for the boy leads her to uncover hidden truths about the city and her husband’s activities. Previously kept secrets begin to unfold and they work to forge an honest relationship.
This is a debut novel by Christina Lynch. The Italian Party is an engaging novel during a unique time in Siena’s history. The story brings together two individuals with differing needs and shows their progression into a loving union.
Scottie spends a great deal of time alone due to Michael's busy travel schedule. She decides to learn Italian so that she can explore while Michael is away. She hires a local boy named Robertino who is well connected despite being fourteen years old. Things improve until Scottie learns that Robertino is missing. Scottie’s search for the boy leads her to uncover hidden truths about the city and her husband’s activities. Previously kept secrets begin to unfold and they work to forge an honest relationship.
This is a debut novel by Christina Lynch. The Italian Party is an engaging novel during a unique time in Siena’s history. The story brings together two individuals with differing needs and shows their progression into a loving union.
April 10, 2018
Party noun
1. a social gathering of invited guests, typically involving eating, drinking, and entertainment.
2.a formally constituted political group that contests elections and attempts to form or take part in a government.
When I first saw the title, I thought of the party, as in gathering, but this is mostly about a political party, the reason for Michael and his new wife, Scottie, for moving to Siena, Italy in 1956. Michael is a CIA recruit, pretending to be a Ford tractor salesman. Scottie has her own secrets. Theirs was quite the whirlwind courtship and marriage, so it's fair to say they barely know each other.
Scottie is trying to make a home in Siena, although she's not very domestic. She hires the very eager teenager, Robertino, to teach her Italian, which she picks up surprisingly quickly.
Meanwhile, Michael is setting up the business and is making the occasional "business" trips to Roma where he meets his lover.
As Scottie immerses herself more and more in the Italian way of life, Michael goes ahead with his plans to sway the local elections, as the representative of the Communist party is the favourite. There are complications and misunderstandings. And revelations.
I quite enjoyed this novel. It was different, playful but it also had depth. I thought Cristina Lynch did justice to both the Americans and the Italians, especially back in post-war Italy. Perspective, immersion and openness to different cultures make for an enriched life experience.
This novel had a distinct filmic quality about it. The period, scooters and country make one think of black and white movies.
Great job, Ms Lunch. I'm looking forward to reading more from you.
I would be remiss not to mention the immense pleasure that Edoardo Ballerini brought to my listening experience. I'm completely in love with his voice and tone. Also, his Italian pronunciation was excellent, which reminds me, I quite enjoyed the many Italian words and expressions spicing up the novel. Without them, in my opinion, the novel would have been less enjoyable.
1. a social gathering of invited guests, typically involving eating, drinking, and entertainment.
2.a formally constituted political group that contests elections and attempts to form or take part in a government.
When I first saw the title, I thought of the party, as in gathering, but this is mostly about a political party, the reason for Michael and his new wife, Scottie, for moving to Siena, Italy in 1956. Michael is a CIA recruit, pretending to be a Ford tractor salesman. Scottie has her own secrets. Theirs was quite the whirlwind courtship and marriage, so it's fair to say they barely know each other.
Scottie is trying to make a home in Siena, although she's not very domestic. She hires the very eager teenager, Robertino, to teach her Italian, which she picks up surprisingly quickly.
Meanwhile, Michael is setting up the business and is making the occasional "business" trips to Roma where he meets his lover.
As Scottie immerses herself more and more in the Italian way of life, Michael goes ahead with his plans to sway the local elections, as the representative of the Communist party is the favourite. There are complications and misunderstandings. And revelations.
I quite enjoyed this novel. It was different, playful but it also had depth. I thought Cristina Lynch did justice to both the Americans and the Italians, especially back in post-war Italy. Perspective, immersion and openness to different cultures make for an enriched life experience.
This novel had a distinct filmic quality about it. The period, scooters and country make one think of black and white movies.
Great job, Ms Lunch. I'm looking forward to reading more from you.
I would be remiss not to mention the immense pleasure that Edoardo Ballerini brought to my listening experience. I'm completely in love with his voice and tone. Also, his Italian pronunciation was excellent, which reminds me, I quite enjoyed the many Italian words and expressions spicing up the novel. Without them, in my opinion, the novel would have been less enjoyable.
March 23, 2018
American newlyweds Scottie and Michael Messina arrive in Tuscany in 1956 to begin their married life together: he is starting a Ford tractor business and she will feather a little nest for them to call home. But they are almost strangers since they married in such a hurry. Each is pretending to be someone they are not, hiding some big secrets about themselves--will their marriage be over before it really begins if those secrets are revealed?
Both Scottie and Michael are nervous about what life will be like in Siena. The townspeople seem suspicious of foreigners, harboring painful memories and ill feelings from the war. What do they need with American goods and way of life? Michael seems to be terribly busy trying to get his business off the ground, going on frequent trips to Rome, while beautiful Scottie is feeling bored and lonely...
As the story spins out, there is romance, intrigue and more secrets! Which will be big enough or painful enough to be the deal breaker?
This is a delightfully fun little spy story that I am hoping is the beginning of a new series. It takes an interesting look at America's role in international politics in the postwar world.
The title The Italian Party can have two meanings. Party as in good times: for many rich foreigners are coming to Italy for food, wine and orgies. But it also refers to political parties. In this postwar era, foreign governments are finagling to make sure local officials and governments lean towards their own political preferences. Talk about election tampering!! I guess our own government has been doing a lot of that over the years.
Thank you to Jordan Hanley at St Martin's Press for offering an arc of this book to read through NetGalley. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
Both Scottie and Michael are nervous about what life will be like in Siena. The townspeople seem suspicious of foreigners, harboring painful memories and ill feelings from the war. What do they need with American goods and way of life? Michael seems to be terribly busy trying to get his business off the ground, going on frequent trips to Rome, while beautiful Scottie is feeling bored and lonely...
As the story spins out, there is romance, intrigue and more secrets! Which will be big enough or painful enough to be the deal breaker?
This is a delightfully fun little spy story that I am hoping is the beginning of a new series. It takes an interesting look at America's role in international politics in the postwar world.
The title The Italian Party can have two meanings. Party as in good times: for many rich foreigners are coming to Italy for food, wine and orgies. But it also refers to political parties. In this postwar era, foreign governments are finagling to make sure local officials and governments lean towards their own political preferences. Talk about election tampering!! I guess our own government has been doing a lot of that over the years.
Thank you to Jordan Hanley at St Martin's Press for offering an arc of this book to read through NetGalley. I thoroughly enjoyed it.
March 18, 2018
What a fun jaunt through Italy in 1956 with newlyweds Michael and Scottie! After a whirlwind romance and wedding, they barely know one another, but each thinks they have hit the jackpot with this marriage. However, both have a secret. Scottie has his reasons for being in Italy that he keeps from Scottie, and Scottie has secrets in her past that Michael knows nothing about. They are very young and very naïve when they arrive in Italy where Michael will open a business selling tractors. The tone at the beginning of the book has a fun light rom-com feel to it.
But this is set during the Cold War and there’s fear that Italy will fall to the Communists. The U.S. is determined to make sure that doesn’t happen, and sends CIA operatives to Italy in an attempt to sway the impending election. There’s quite a bit of history and political commentary which was delivered with a light touch.
But along with the intrigue, there’s also love and romance in the air, the beautiful Italian countryside, the delicious food, the quirky colorful characters, and a mystery to solve when a young friend who was teaching Scottie Italian disappears.
This had a little bit of a slow start and I wasn’t sure I liked the style, but I was quickly caught up in the story and could see this as a charming and witty 1950’s movie. I loved the humor and I fell in love with both Scottie and Michael as secrets are revealed and their relationship develops. A fun escape and easy read!
* thanks to St Martin's Press for a copy of the book via Netgalley
* book will be published March 20, 2018
But this is set during the Cold War and there’s fear that Italy will fall to the Communists. The U.S. is determined to make sure that doesn’t happen, and sends CIA operatives to Italy in an attempt to sway the impending election. There’s quite a bit of history and political commentary which was delivered with a light touch.
But along with the intrigue, there’s also love and romance in the air, the beautiful Italian countryside, the delicious food, the quirky colorful characters, and a mystery to solve when a young friend who was teaching Scottie Italian disappears.
This had a little bit of a slow start and I wasn’t sure I liked the style, but I was quickly caught up in the story and could see this as a charming and witty 1950’s movie. I loved the humor and I fell in love with both Scottie and Michael as secrets are revealed and their relationship develops. A fun escape and easy read!
* thanks to St Martin's Press for a copy of the book via Netgalley
* book will be published March 20, 2018
August 7, 2019
"American tourists come here and they see only the happy, beautiful Italy they want to see, and that the Italians want them to see. The party. They don't see the scars. The ongoing struggles. Why would they? They don't see them at home, either." In 1956 Scottie and Michael are two naïve young Americans who married soon after meeting at a Vassar mixer. They have just moved to Siena so that Michael can establish a Ford tractor dealership and it turns out that they have brought a lot of secrets with them. To reveal any of those secrets or the new ones that develop would spoil this really charming and witty book.
Italy is still recovering from the war. It is a country with many complex political parties and alliances and both the Russians and the Americans see an opportunity to exercise influence. "Italy was not carefree and sexy like they made it seem in Roman Holiday. It was dense and mysterious and dangerous and confusing." Scottie and Michael settle into life in Italy as a combination of innocents abroad and ugly Americans. He has a little trouble making inroads with his new neighbors because he speaks Italian with the wrong kind of accent, i.e. Sicilian, and he encounters Italians with a dim view of Americans who make films that are treacle and products that are flimsy and who maintain an imperialist presence in Europe. Scottie, on the other hand, is more gregarious. She quickly picks up Italian from Robertino, a 14 year old boy who shares her love of horses. Robertino also performs odd jobs for Michael so the couple, as well as the rest of the town, are quite worried when Robertino suddenly disappears during preparations for a horse race that is packed with tradition.
This book is a delight with characters that I loved, spies, counterspies, mystery, love and great food. The author has a very light touch with history, politics and other serious topics. I would be happy to read another book by her.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
Italy is still recovering from the war. It is a country with many complex political parties and alliances and both the Russians and the Americans see an opportunity to exercise influence. "Italy was not carefree and sexy like they made it seem in Roman Holiday. It was dense and mysterious and dangerous and confusing." Scottie and Michael settle into life in Italy as a combination of innocents abroad and ugly Americans. He has a little trouble making inroads with his new neighbors because he speaks Italian with the wrong kind of accent, i.e. Sicilian, and he encounters Italians with a dim view of Americans who make films that are treacle and products that are flimsy and who maintain an imperialist presence in Europe. Scottie, on the other hand, is more gregarious. She quickly picks up Italian from Robertino, a 14 year old boy who shares her love of horses. Robertino also performs odd jobs for Michael so the couple, as well as the rest of the town, are quite worried when Robertino suddenly disappears during preparations for a horse race that is packed with tradition.
This book is a delight with characters that I loved, spies, counterspies, mystery, love and great food. The author has a very light touch with history, politics and other serious topics. I would be happy to read another book by her.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher.
March 17, 2018
It’s 1956. Scottie and Michael are young newlyweds. Each with their own selfish intentions and suitcases full of secrets they head to Italy. Michael is serious and has a guilt-ridden conscience; Scottie on the other hand is carefree and whimsical. They seem to be total opposites, but I look it as more of yin yang relationship.
There is a political theme which represents the time period throughout. It wasn’t heavy handed, but quite intriguing. The descriptions of Italy are beautiful, the food delicious, and the Italians playful yet wary.
I adored this novel. It had me thinking about relationships and no two relationships are the same or what it is that makes a union between two people happy.
Thanks to Christina Lynch, NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press
There is a political theme which represents the time period throughout. It wasn’t heavy handed, but quite intriguing. The descriptions of Italy are beautiful, the food delicious, and the Italians playful yet wary.
I adored this novel. It had me thinking about relationships and no two relationships are the same or what it is that makes a union between two people happy.
Thanks to Christina Lynch, NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press
March 21, 2018
1956...Siena,Italy
Young newlyweds Michael and Scottie are sent to Italy because of Michael’s job with the CIA, trying to change the upcoming election results there from communist leadership to democratic. Scottie has no idea in the beginning about her husband’s job, she thinks he works for Ford and is to sell tractors in Italy.
Secrets and lies are aplenty with these two, some comical moments, but this was just ok for me.
Thank you to St.Martins Press for the advanced copy and to NetGalley!
Young newlyweds Michael and Scottie are sent to Italy because of Michael’s job with the CIA, trying to change the upcoming election results there from communist leadership to democratic. Scottie has no idea in the beginning about her husband’s job, she thinks he works for Ford and is to sell tractors in Italy.
Secrets and lies are aplenty with these two, some comical moments, but this was just ok for me.
Thank you to St.Martins Press for the advanced copy and to NetGalley!
March 18, 2018
3+ stars
The Italian Party is pretty light given the topic. I think this will work well for some and less for others. I feel on the fence — at times I got into it and at others I wanted it to be more serious.
Scottie (a woman) and Michael are newly married Americans living in Sienna in the 1950s. They have lots of secrets and very different reasons for marrying each other. On the surface, Scottie seems like a good natured hapless new bride and Michael seems like an overeager new entrepreneur. As their story develops we find out about their secrets, and eventually they do too. The backdrop to the story is postwar Italy and the American fear of the spread of communism. To me this is a fascinating historical context, but I often found Scottie and Michael’s story too light to really mesh with the historical context.
Ultimately, different readers have different expectations when it comes to historical fiction. I tend to like more depth, but I have no doubt that many readers will enjoy this likeable story.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an opportunity to read an advance copy.
The Italian Party is pretty light given the topic. I think this will work well for some and less for others. I feel on the fence — at times I got into it and at others I wanted it to be more serious.
Scottie (a woman) and Michael are newly married Americans living in Sienna in the 1950s. They have lots of secrets and very different reasons for marrying each other. On the surface, Scottie seems like a good natured hapless new bride and Michael seems like an overeager new entrepreneur. As their story develops we find out about their secrets, and eventually they do too. The backdrop to the story is postwar Italy and the American fear of the spread of communism. To me this is a fascinating historical context, but I often found Scottie and Michael’s story too light to really mesh with the historical context.
Ultimately, different readers have different expectations when it comes to historical fiction. I tend to like more depth, but I have no doubt that many readers will enjoy this likeable story.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an opportunity to read an advance copy.
March 22, 2018
Michael and Scottie are young, attractive but naive newly weds who married after a whirlwind romance in 1956 and have moved to Siena in Italy where Michael is to sell tractors for Ford. Both carried secrets into the marriage and know very little about each other and it was delightful to watch their relationship unfold as they gradually discover who they are. Michael is also leading a double life trying to influence the local elections to prevent the spread of communism, although he really has very little idea of how to do this. Scottie finds herself left alone to organise their apartment, trying to communicate with workman who don't speak English and puzzling about what to do with their brand new American appliances that won't work in Italy. Scottie and Michael both get to know and befriend a friendly young boy called Robertino, Michael through his work and Scottie through hiring him to teach her Italian so when he goes missing Scottie makes it her personal mission to try and find him.
It was fascinating to see Siena depicted as it was in the 1950s, recovering from the war but still insular and following old traditions. Although Michael tries to promote the American way of living, Scottie very quickly falls in love with Siena, its inhabitants and especially its food. Although very naive, Scottie is very open to new ideas and soon embraces the Italian way of living in the moment. Her openness and easy way with people allows her to find out information that eludes Michael.
I liked the construction of the book with the famous, ancient horse race, the Palio at the centre and climax of the novel and each of the chapters named after one of the contrade or districts of Siena that are represented in the race. Although the novel is a lot of fun, watching an inept American couple bumble into a very traditional Italian society, it is also a commentary on the complex politics of the time and America's role in trying to prevent the rise of communism in Europe after WWII, but all told with a light touch.
With thanks to Netgalley and St Martin's Press for a digital copy of the book
It was fascinating to see Siena depicted as it was in the 1950s, recovering from the war but still insular and following old traditions. Although Michael tries to promote the American way of living, Scottie very quickly falls in love with Siena, its inhabitants and especially its food. Although very naive, Scottie is very open to new ideas and soon embraces the Italian way of living in the moment. Her openness and easy way with people allows her to find out information that eludes Michael.
I liked the construction of the book with the famous, ancient horse race, the Palio at the centre and climax of the novel and each of the chapters named after one of the contrade or districts of Siena that are represented in the race. Although the novel is a lot of fun, watching an inept American couple bumble into a very traditional Italian society, it is also a commentary on the complex politics of the time and America's role in trying to prevent the rise of communism in Europe after WWII, but all told with a light touch.
With thanks to Netgalley and St Martin's Press for a digital copy of the book
March 10, 2018
First off, huge thank you to Jordan for sending me an arc of this one via Netgalley!
So, I was a bit hesitant to read this because it sounded a bit too historical/political for my tasting. And.. unfortunately it was.
But, I am glad that I took a chance because I'm not a huge historical fan or like much political aspects to my novels.
The Italian Party started off great with the lovely travel scenes in Italy! I absolutely loved the vivd images I was able to obtain from Italy's mountainsides and the food eeeekkk! It made me want to go to Italy even more!! I liked the mystery aspect to this novel since I'm a huge mystery/thriller fan. I also really liked the characters in the novel and felt this was a strong aspect. But unfortunately, I could not get past the political parties/historical aspect of this one and it was too strong for my liking. I found that my attention was wavering a lot and almost wanted to DNF due to the history aspect. I'm just not a big fan of history.... but if you are I feel that this is definitely for you!
Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's press for the opportunity to read this book.
2.75 stars for me on this one.
Publication date is 3/20/18.
Published to GR: 3/9/18.
So, I was a bit hesitant to read this because it sounded a bit too historical/political for my tasting. And.. unfortunately it was.
But, I am glad that I took a chance because I'm not a huge historical fan or like much political aspects to my novels.
The Italian Party started off great with the lovely travel scenes in Italy! I absolutely loved the vivd images I was able to obtain from Italy's mountainsides and the food eeeekkk! It made me want to go to Italy even more!! I liked the mystery aspect to this novel since I'm a huge mystery/thriller fan. I also really liked the characters in the novel and felt this was a strong aspect. But unfortunately, I could not get past the political parties/historical aspect of this one and it was too strong for my liking. I found that my attention was wavering a lot and almost wanted to DNF due to the history aspect. I'm just not a big fan of history.... but if you are I feel that this is definitely for you!
Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's press for the opportunity to read this book.
2.75 stars for me on this one.
Publication date is 3/20/18.
Published to GR: 3/9/18.
March 18, 2018
Wow! 4.5 Stars for this debut novel by Christina Lynch. Full review to follow 🇮🇹
FULL REVIEW:
Ciao! Grazie to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for allowing me to read this Advanced Reader Copy of The Italian Party, a novel set in Siena, Italy in 1956. Thinking of my reading experience overnight, I decided to change my rating to a full five stars. In full disclosure, Italy is my favorite place on earth and I was excited when I was approved to read this novel. While I’ve not been to Siena, I feel like I just had a mini-vacation there from my couch. Lynch is artful in capturing atmosphere, I could taste the food, smell the wine, the lemons, the olives, and yes, the horse dung when we visit Siena with Scottie and Michael Messina. Scottie and Michael are young newlyweds, Scottie just twenty-years-old and Michael, twenty-four. From the outside, they are the perfect 1950s couple. Scottie is a Vassar girl and equestrian who marries Michael, a Yale grad from Bronx. Michael is of Sicilian descent but sees himself as one hundred percent American. The couple travel to Italy for Michael’s work as a salesman of American built tractors. If they sound one dimensional, just wait. Their secrets reveal many complexities that I won’t even hint at because, no spoilers here. The couple both go into their marriage without really knowing each other. They do what they are supposed to do in the 50s and marry to start a family. But their lies of omission flare up throughout the book and make for a fascinating read.
While the book is a fun, sexy, gossipy book, The Italian Party is so much more. The story takes place in post WWII Italy when Communism was a threat to the country. Lynch’s exploration of history and politics during this era play a major part in the story. There is also a mystery surrounding fourteen-year-old Robertino, one of my favorite characters. Other characters, like the native Italians, and their transformation through the story are fun and fascinating. Nonna Bae is an elderly crochety Sienese woman; Sebastian Gordon, a British bon vivant who is fairly open about his sexuality even in repressive times; and the Messina’s landlord Carlo Piccolini and his disconsolate wife Franca are a few of my favorites. Let me not forget another character, Ecco, Scottie’s little dog ever-present companion. I fell in love with Ecco just as Scottie does. I don’t think I’ve seen an animal used to highlight mood so well.
If you can’t get away but would love to visit Italy for a day or two, meet some great people and learn a little history along the way, I recommend this book.
FULL REVIEW:
Ciao! Grazie to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for allowing me to read this Advanced Reader Copy of The Italian Party, a novel set in Siena, Italy in 1956. Thinking of my reading experience overnight, I decided to change my rating to a full five stars. In full disclosure, Italy is my favorite place on earth and I was excited when I was approved to read this novel. While I’ve not been to Siena, I feel like I just had a mini-vacation there from my couch. Lynch is artful in capturing atmosphere, I could taste the food, smell the wine, the lemons, the olives, and yes, the horse dung when we visit Siena with Scottie and Michael Messina. Scottie and Michael are young newlyweds, Scottie just twenty-years-old and Michael, twenty-four. From the outside, they are the perfect 1950s couple. Scottie is a Vassar girl and equestrian who marries Michael, a Yale grad from Bronx. Michael is of Sicilian descent but sees himself as one hundred percent American. The couple travel to Italy for Michael’s work as a salesman of American built tractors. If they sound one dimensional, just wait. Their secrets reveal many complexities that I won’t even hint at because, no spoilers here. The couple both go into their marriage without really knowing each other. They do what they are supposed to do in the 50s and marry to start a family. But their lies of omission flare up throughout the book and make for a fascinating read.
While the book is a fun, sexy, gossipy book, The Italian Party is so much more. The story takes place in post WWII Italy when Communism was a threat to the country. Lynch’s exploration of history and politics during this era play a major part in the story. There is also a mystery surrounding fourteen-year-old Robertino, one of my favorite characters. Other characters, like the native Italians, and their transformation through the story are fun and fascinating. Nonna Bae is an elderly crochety Sienese woman; Sebastian Gordon, a British bon vivant who is fairly open about his sexuality even in repressive times; and the Messina’s landlord Carlo Piccolini and his disconsolate wife Franca are a few of my favorites. Let me not forget another character, Ecco, Scottie’s little dog ever-present companion. I fell in love with Ecco just as Scottie does. I don’t think I’ve seen an animal used to highlight mood so well.
If you can’t get away but would love to visit Italy for a day or two, meet some great people and learn a little history along the way, I recommend this book.
May 15, 2018
I will admit that I didn’t enjoy this one as much as I thought I would, probably because I knew this book was categorized as historical fiction and so I was expecting a story with a bit more substance, a bit more seamless blending of history and story, a bit better balance of seriousness and lightheartedness. To me, the story felt a bit all over the place, at times being overly serious, other times bordering on comedic. I did love the setting though and I felt the author Christina Lynch did a good job capturing the atmospheric charm of the Italian countryside as well as the local food, culture, and people – reading the descriptions of the various places Scottie went to during her exploration of the city, also the palio races, the descriptions of food that made my mouth water, and other aspects of Italian culture, I definitely felt I was there in Siena alongside the characters. For me, this was when the story was at its best – when it covered the historical aspects and the culture and how the local people lived. Unfortunately, I found my mind wandering during most of the segments about politics, especially the ones that go a bit too in depth about the various political factions and parties.
Aside from the setting, the other aspect I appreciated with this story was the author’s treatment of the characters. Lynch did a great job presenting realistic, flawed characters in Michael and Scottie, both of whom had many secrets they were keeping from each other and in some aspects, were living in a world of lies – both made many mistakes throughout their lives and yes, did things that were morally questionable, as did most of the other characters in the story, yet I still found it difficult not to like these characters. The relationship that Michael and Scottie had was unconventional and I found it interesting the way it was developed and the direction they eventually went. I find it refreshing whenever I see authors write characters and relationships that are well-developed and outside the stereotypical “norms” – this was definitely an area of strength with this book and one of the aspects that kept me engaged even though the overall story itself was a bit slow at times.
Despite this one not being what I expected, I still feel it was worth reading, especially for the insight it gave into the time period and the historical context of post-war Italy. I think if the story had been a bit more tightly-written and less inconsistent, I would have rated this one somewhat higher, as the characters and the setting truly did draw me in. I know many readers enjoyed this one and I can definitely see why, as certain parts of the story were intriguing and fun and I think as an relatively light-hearted story about spies, this one works fine overall – just not really for me due to the different expectations I have towards historical fiction. Perhaps check out some of the other reviews as well for a more balanced view before deciding whether to pick this one up!
Received ARC from St. Martin’s Press via NetGalley
Aside from the setting, the other aspect I appreciated with this story was the author’s treatment of the characters. Lynch did a great job presenting realistic, flawed characters in Michael and Scottie, both of whom had many secrets they were keeping from each other and in some aspects, were living in a world of lies – both made many mistakes throughout their lives and yes, did things that were morally questionable, as did most of the other characters in the story, yet I still found it difficult not to like these characters. The relationship that Michael and Scottie had was unconventional and I found it interesting the way it was developed and the direction they eventually went. I find it refreshing whenever I see authors write characters and relationships that are well-developed and outside the stereotypical “norms” – this was definitely an area of strength with this book and one of the aspects that kept me engaged even though the overall story itself was a bit slow at times.
Despite this one not being what I expected, I still feel it was worth reading, especially for the insight it gave into the time period and the historical context of post-war Italy. I think if the story had been a bit more tightly-written and less inconsistent, I would have rated this one somewhat higher, as the characters and the setting truly did draw me in. I know many readers enjoyed this one and I can definitely see why, as certain parts of the story were intriguing and fun and I think as an relatively light-hearted story about spies, this one works fine overall – just not really for me due to the different expectations I have towards historical fiction. Perhaps check out some of the other reviews as well for a more balanced view before deciding whether to pick this one up!
Received ARC from St. Martin’s Press via NetGalley
March 11, 2018
4 fun and yet serious stars
Oh to be able to live and work in Italy! Scottie and Michael in 1956 got to do just that. They were young, they were newly married and they had secrets. But, oh the food, oh the people, and oh the fun one could have meandering through the sociopolitical scene that happened after the war years! But maybe, it was not fun at all! Secrets and lies are always a way to undermine a marriage, a life, and a friendship.
The fear was that the Communists would take over in Italy and of course that must at all costs be prevented. Scottie starts to form strong ties with the people, especially her young teacher of Italian, and when he disappears, things conspire to make both Scottie and Michael evaluate not only their lives and the motives of their home country, but also see the extent of the ways in which America would go to see itself victorious over Communism.
This story, told with the glories of Italian life, the food, the wine, the lifestyle, was a wonderful way in which to see a country recovering from war. It also provided the reader with the ability to enjoy flawed characters and perhaps realize that our own country is and was quite flawed itself.
Thank you to Christina Lynch, St. Martin's Press, and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this informative and oftentimes funny book.
Oh to be able to live and work in Italy! Scottie and Michael in 1956 got to do just that. They were young, they were newly married and they had secrets. But, oh the food, oh the people, and oh the fun one could have meandering through the sociopolitical scene that happened after the war years! But maybe, it was not fun at all! Secrets and lies are always a way to undermine a marriage, a life, and a friendship.
The fear was that the Communists would take over in Italy and of course that must at all costs be prevented. Scottie starts to form strong ties with the people, especially her young teacher of Italian, and when he disappears, things conspire to make both Scottie and Michael evaluate not only their lives and the motives of their home country, but also see the extent of the ways in which America would go to see itself victorious over Communism.
This story, told with the glories of Italian life, the food, the wine, the lifestyle, was a wonderful way in which to see a country recovering from war. It also provided the reader with the ability to enjoy flawed characters and perhaps realize that our own country is and was quite flawed itself.
Thank you to Christina Lynch, St. Martin's Press, and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this informative and oftentimes funny book.
March 20, 2018
Picturesque, insightful, and delightfully winsome!
The Italian Party is an immersive story that takes you back to Siena, Italy during the mid-1950s when The Cold War was still influencing Italian politics, Communism was rampant, spies were everywhere, and in this tale newly married American couple Michael and Scottie have just arrived with glamour, high-tech gadgets, and an abundance of secrets.
The prose is eloquent and atmospheric. The characterization is exceptionally well drawn with a whole slew of characters that are colourful, affable, and quirky. And the plot is an intriguing mix of spy thriller, romance, and comedy, that's full of life, love, self-discovery, deception, betrayal, grief, friendship, antics, and community.
I have to admit I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started The Italian Party but it wasn’t long before Lynch swept me away in a debut that's mysterious, informative, and witty and gave me a beautiful picture postcard of the history, landmarks, culture, and culinary fare of a country she obviously loves and knows well.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at https://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
The Italian Party is an immersive story that takes you back to Siena, Italy during the mid-1950s when The Cold War was still influencing Italian politics, Communism was rampant, spies were everywhere, and in this tale newly married American couple Michael and Scottie have just arrived with glamour, high-tech gadgets, and an abundance of secrets.
The prose is eloquent and atmospheric. The characterization is exceptionally well drawn with a whole slew of characters that are colourful, affable, and quirky. And the plot is an intriguing mix of spy thriller, romance, and comedy, that's full of life, love, self-discovery, deception, betrayal, grief, friendship, antics, and community.
I have to admit I wasn’t sure what to expect when I started The Italian Party but it wasn’t long before Lynch swept me away in a debut that's mysterious, informative, and witty and gave me a beautiful picture postcard of the history, landmarks, culture, and culinary fare of a country she obviously loves and knows well.
Thank you to St. Martin's Press for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
All my reviews can be found on my blog at https://whatsbetterthanbooks.com
March 16, 2018
3.5 STARS.
I would describe this book as a fun frolicking read. I'm not sure if I was supposed to take the story seriously cause at no point did it feel serious till the last 2 chapters. It has the feel of a rom-com. It definitely put me in mind of Roman Holiday" or "Three Coins in a Fountain".
I loved the setting of Siena and loved all the talk of food. The author described Siena and its people well- definitely felt like I knew them.
Our main protagonist Scottie and Michael are Americans who have just arrived in Siena. Both bring with them secrets which of course will come to light. I liked the way the book was about them finding themselves and each other and there place in the world.
It was definitely a fun read. Thanks to Jordan, Netgalley and the author Christina Lynch for providing me with an e copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I would describe this book as a fun frolicking read. I'm not sure if I was supposed to take the story seriously cause at no point did it feel serious till the last 2 chapters. It has the feel of a rom-com. It definitely put me in mind of Roman Holiday" or "Three Coins in a Fountain".
I loved the setting of Siena and loved all the talk of food. The author described Siena and its people well- definitely felt like I knew them.
Our main protagonist Scottie and Michael are Americans who have just arrived in Siena. Both bring with them secrets which of course will come to light. I liked the way the book was about them finding themselves and each other and there place in the world.
It was definitely a fun read. Thanks to Jordan, Netgalley and the author Christina Lynch for providing me with an e copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
March 20, 2018
The Italian Party is a smart, sharp, and satiric take on 1950s American culture and politics.
The newlyweds were picture perfect American ideals in the flesh: Michael, twenty-four, a handsome, well-dressed man who shaved four times a day, and twenty-year-old Scottie, Vassar educated, beautiful, blond haired, and dressed in pearls, heels, gloves, hat-- and girdle and underarm perspiration guards.
Their whirlwind courtship and quick marriage was secretly a marriage of convenience for them both. The bride was pregnant and the husband was told a wife was good for his new job. Neither knew much about the other, and they liked it that way.
They are beginning their lives together in Siena, Italy.
"They seemed to have stepped right out of an advertisement for Betty Crocker, Wonder Bread or capitalism itself."
Post-war Italy was still rebuilding after WWII--both its infrastructure and its political structure. American cultural imperialism was in full swing, hoping to lure Italy away from the Communist Party and Soviet influence. The CIA and the Communists covert operations have converged on Siena's mayoral election.
Michael works for Ford and has been sent to Siena to sell tractors, hoping to lure farmers into modernization, but the locals are not very receptive.
The newlyweds try to live up to the glossy ideals of advertising, being the kind of husband and wife seen in on a magazine cover. But each is living a lie.
Meanwhile, they are surrounded and befriended by people with hidden agendas, secret liaisons and complicated backgrounds.
All that is hidden eventually is outed, taking the newlyweds into surprising and very non-Norman Rockwell territory.
I enjoyed the satire and the historical background. The story had lots of twists and complications. The ending felt far-fetched to me in terms of how Michael and Scottie resolve their marital challenges. But the characters are quite happy and eager for new adventures.
I received a free ebook from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
The newlyweds were picture perfect American ideals in the flesh: Michael, twenty-four, a handsome, well-dressed man who shaved four times a day, and twenty-year-old Scottie, Vassar educated, beautiful, blond haired, and dressed in pearls, heels, gloves, hat-- and girdle and underarm perspiration guards.
Their whirlwind courtship and quick marriage was secretly a marriage of convenience for them both. The bride was pregnant and the husband was told a wife was good for his new job. Neither knew much about the other, and they liked it that way.
They are beginning their lives together in Siena, Italy.
"They seemed to have stepped right out of an advertisement for Betty Crocker, Wonder Bread or capitalism itself."
Post-war Italy was still rebuilding after WWII--both its infrastructure and its political structure. American cultural imperialism was in full swing, hoping to lure Italy away from the Communist Party and Soviet influence. The CIA and the Communists covert operations have converged on Siena's mayoral election.
Michael works for Ford and has been sent to Siena to sell tractors, hoping to lure farmers into modernization, but the locals are not very receptive.
The newlyweds try to live up to the glossy ideals of advertising, being the kind of husband and wife seen in on a magazine cover. But each is living a lie.
Meanwhile, they are surrounded and befriended by people with hidden agendas, secret liaisons and complicated backgrounds.
All that is hidden eventually is outed, taking the newlyweds into surprising and very non-Norman Rockwell territory.
I enjoyed the satire and the historical background. The story had lots of twists and complications. The ending felt far-fetched to me in terms of how Michael and Scottie resolve their marital challenges. But the characters are quite happy and eager for new adventures.
I received a free ebook from the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
September 3, 2018
Set in 1950s Italy, 11 years after the end of WWII, The Italian Party "stars" a young, newly married American couple in the process of moving into a new home and new lives in an Italian town new to them both. You might wonder why I stress the newness of everything, but then you haven't met Michael and Scottie Messina yet. Along with their luggage they bring their secrets - from each other, from their new neighbors and from their new country. This historical fiction set in Sienna, Italy in 1956, as that country and Europe were rebuilding after WWII, is also a comic tale, with satirical moments (and romance too). This newly married young couple begin a life together built on half truths and many secrets--on both sides. Laughter and pain ensue. This novel takes place during the times when the Italian Communist Party was active in that country and a thorn in the side of the ever-watchful and interested American government.
In many ways Michael and Scottie didn't know what hit them - young, almost innocents (but not quite), in far too deep, not really knowing they were in anything. Each was naive but not in the way the other thinks. So much misunderstanding!
This is a light book with a serious backdrop written about a time of vast American unease on so many fronts. A mirror on a world of the 1950s with its silliness and craziness and hints of the darkness underlying it all. This is a time period that is under-represented in the fiction I read so I appreciate the opportunity to have a glimpse..
3.5 rounded to 4
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in return for an honest review.
In many ways Michael and Scottie didn't know what hit them - young, almost innocents (but not quite), in far too deep, not really knowing they were in anything. Each was naive but not in the way the other thinks. So much misunderstanding!
This is a light book with a serious backdrop written about a time of vast American unease on so many fronts. A mirror on a world of the 1950s with its silliness and craziness and hints of the darkness underlying it all. This is a time period that is under-represented in the fiction I read so I appreciate the opportunity to have a glimpse..
3.5 rounded to 4
A copy of this book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in return for an honest review.
March 13, 2018
Some humor, some intrigue, a little espionage and a lot deceit highlight the tale of THE ITALIAN PARTY by Christina Lynch is like a Picasso, jagged, colorful and often needing a second look or two to digest what we are seeing. Scottie and Michael marry, but it isn’t love that brought them together, it was secrets hidden, and now they will use each other to carry out their facades.
Michael is purportedly a tractor salesman relocated to Italy, but one of his secrets is that he is so much more. His other secret would destroy him as a man, label him as a freak of nature.
Scottie is childlike, naïve to the world around her, playing in the adult world with the presence of a princess who has never left the castle. Her body becomes a playground.
As the truth of Michael’s true purpose in Italy is unveiled, their lives will become further steeped in deceit and danger until they tentatively learn to work together, and give honesty a try. Who was using whom?
The beauty of Italy comes through almost in a dreamlike quality. Rich descriptions make the surroundings come alive. Michael’s character is both understandable and likable. He actually comes across as extremely brave, considering what he is up against. I am not sure I ever fully understood Scottie, or if I did, what I understood I didn’t care for. I would have to say, her actions definitely would color the world’s opinions of America and Americans.
All in all, there is a good soap opera here, with some fascinating political intrigue for the mid-twentieth century!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from St. Martin's Press!
Print Length: 336 pages
Publisher: St. Martin's Press (March 20, 2018)
Publication Date: March 20, 2018
Genre: Adult Fiction
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
Michael is purportedly a tractor salesman relocated to Italy, but one of his secrets is that he is so much more. His other secret would destroy him as a man, label him as a freak of nature.
Scottie is childlike, naïve to the world around her, playing in the adult world with the presence of a princess who has never left the castle. Her body becomes a playground.
As the truth of Michael’s true purpose in Italy is unveiled, their lives will become further steeped in deceit and danger until they tentatively learn to work together, and give honesty a try. Who was using whom?
The beauty of Italy comes through almost in a dreamlike quality. Rich descriptions make the surroundings come alive. Michael’s character is both understandable and likable. He actually comes across as extremely brave, considering what he is up against. I am not sure I ever fully understood Scottie, or if I did, what I understood I didn’t care for. I would have to say, her actions definitely would color the world’s opinions of America and Americans.
All in all, there is a good soap opera here, with some fascinating political intrigue for the mid-twentieth century!
I received a complimentary ARC edition from St. Martin's Press!
Print Length: 336 pages
Publisher: St. Martin's Press (March 20, 2018)
Publication Date: March 20, 2018
Genre: Adult Fiction
Available from: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
For Reviews & More: http://tometender.blogspot.com
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