Valerie S. (VolunteerVal) - reviewed on 2/24/2023 + 645 more book reviews

Helpful Score: 1

I knew I had to read The Italian Ballerina when I saw it was written by the talented Kristy Cambron and had this lovely cover. However, I wasn't sure I'd enjoy it as it begins with detailed WWII battle scenes, and the early chapters were confusing to me. But I'm glad I continued with the audiobook as this is a beautifully complex story. It braids two historical plots with a contemporary storyline, all set in Italy with a strong sense of place, from lush gardens to war-torn buildings.

The novel was inspired by a piece of true history. During World War II, clever medical staff at a hospital in Rome invented a fake illness to save the lives of Jewish people. The Nazis feared being contaminated with "Syndrome K" so they avoided inspecting the ward housing "patients" (Jewish citizens) with this false diagnosis.

Ms. Cambron adds a prima ballerina, two American medics, an orphaned Jewish girl, a devoted Italian grandson, and an adult daughter in time of transition to bring this multi-faceted story to life. It highlights the sacrifices ordinary people make for others during times of war and the far-reaching impact they have on future generations.

Thank you to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for the review copy of this emotional story.

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