Fall of the Florios by Stefania Auci

 Fall of the Florios is the third installment of trilogy which ends the dramatic story of Italy’s most powerful and notorious family. It started with an impoverished shopkeeper and ends with the grandson who doesn’t have the same drive as he was already born into privilege. He changes the family fate as he wants to enjoy his status.

The story picks up in January 1894 with turbulent events. A state of siege was declared on the island of Sicily as riots continued, ignited by organization that drew unhappy workers. The chaos on the island needed military intervention and the Florios become prisoners in their own house, hiding for their own safety.

Franca is not happy in her marriage with Ignazio Florio as he continues his philandering. Her unhappiness and how to handle her husband’s infidelities fills big part of this story.

Ignazio, on the other hand, faces big lay-offs as he continues to lose contracts. He finds faults with the system but doesn’t see his own lack for innovation.

This last installment is quite different from the two previous books. The drive to achieve something was an engrossing part of the previous two books. The tone of this one is more of blame and much less ambition. The pace of this story has a slower feel.

The author does excellent research in regards to historical background. The characters are well-imagined, with combination of dramatic social and economic situations.

Released in August 2024 

Source: Harper Via