I read Siracusa by Delia Ephron earlier this year, intrigued by its setting- Rome & Siracusa (a city in southeastern Sicily), Italy- and the story of two couples that vacation there together. Generally, any story set in Italy will pique my interest, but this one also had a bit of thriller element to it, so I definitely wanted to delve into.
The story is told in alternating points of view, with each person providing more back story and intrigue into their character and their current stance in their relationship. Past lovers, strained marriages, traveling with friends, deception between friends and in marriage, children drawn into adult situations- all themes that rally through the story.
And while I can’t give away too much for fear of ruining the plot, I do have to say the story comes to a thrilling end. While the book blurb reads ‘…an unexpected final act that none will see coming.’ I have to say that I did see it coming, quite easily.
Overall, though, I would recommend Siracusa. It’s a fun plot to get wrapped up into and Ephron’s imagery of Italy will give you wanderlust.
