Review of The Road to Moresco

[K Murphy 1]

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Road to Moresco" by Mark Jamilkowski.]

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5 out of 5 stars

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Jamilkowski’s novel, ‘The Road to Moresco’, is a beautifully written historical fiction, it is about surviving World War II, murder,  and abuse. The novel starts in the 1800’s with Francesca and Giuseppe Carnabuci who were living in Messina in Italy. Their son, Marcello is exposed to fascist ideals. However, Maria-Luisa Moresco, who defies fascism, falls in love with him. She was born after her parents lost multiple children, and she is known for exceptional piano-playing skills. She and Marcello meet in 1935 and together they have a daughter Chiara. Throughout the story, major events of 20th-century Europe and their connection with the family’s challenges are depicted.

Marcello passes away soon after and Maria-Luisa meets and marries a violinist, Max Strub. Their relationship was tested due to various events in the Second World War. After infidelities and a budding distance between them, Maria-Luisa and Max Strub separate. As the story goes on, Chiara grows up and Maria-Luisa’s anger towards her leads to ill treatment and neglect. Chiara tries hard to overcome her mother’s bad influence, but as she becomes an adult, she soon realizes that she has traits similar to Maria-Luisa. 

Despite this being in the 1930’s, Maria-Luisa does not conform to the present Italian culture. She has been through so much and has experienced many losses but she and Chiara have survived World War ll and murder. Maria-Luisa and Chiara are very resilient and formidable female leads in their own unique ways. They strongly oppose social norms and are able to carve their own futures. I would highly encourage all women to read this book.

I would give this book 5/5 stars; it provides a complete multi-generational view of an Italian family beginning in the 1800s Italy and follows the grandchildren and great grandchildren in the United States of America in 2021. Love and loss are two factors that are shown in this extended family. Though there are earthquakes, wars, and personal tragedies, this novel is not just a historical fiction; it’s a personal voyage showcasing two women’s strength through many, many obstacles..

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The Road to Moresco
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