From Sand and Ash by Amy Harmon

*** Review ***

In From Sand and Ash by Amy Harmon, readers are transported to the harrowing times of World War II, set against the backdrop of Florence and Rome, Italy. The story revolves around two protagonists, Eva Rosselli and Angelo Bianco, who are raised together as family despite their religious differences. Eva is Jewish, and Angelo is Catholic, and as they grow up, their bond deepens into a profound connection.

As fate would have it, Angelo is called to the priesthood, leaving Eva heartbroken. Years later, their lives intersect again amidst the dark and dangerous times of the Nazi occupation in Italy. The Jewish community faces peril, and Eva’s life is at risk. To honor a promise to Eva’s father, Angelo, now a Catholic priest, is determined to protect her at all costs.

Harmon masterfully weaves a tale of love, sacrifice, and unwavering courage as the characters navigate the treacherous waters of war-torn Italy. Eva’s refusal to stay idle in the face of atrocities unfolds into a compelling narrative of resilience and defiance against the brutal Nazi regime. Meanwhile, Angelo’s covert efforts to aid the Jews, despite the Gestapo’s ever-watchful eyes, add an element of suspense that keeps readers on the edge of their seats.

Throughout the book, Harmon adeptly juxtaposes the hate and evilness of Hitler’s commands with acts of kindness, compassion, and loyalty that highlight the human spirit’s capacity for goodness. The characters’ relationships are beautifully portrayed, showcasing the power of love and friendship in the darkest of times.

As the plot unfolds, readers find themselves emotionally invested in the lives of Eva and Angelo, experiencing their triumphs and tragedies. Harmon’s vivid descriptions of war-torn Italy evoke a sense of place and time, immersing readers in the streets of Florence and the alleys of Rome. The historical accuracy and attention to detail add depth to the narrative, making the story even more impactful.

One cannot help but be moved by the struggles faced by Eva and Angelo as they navigate the treacherous landscape of war, with dangers lurking at every turn. The constant threat of discovery and the imminent danger of death create an intense atmosphere of suspense and tension that persists throughout the novel.

In Amy Harmon’s novel From Sand and Ash, I was profoundly moved by the unwavering courage displayed by the main characters, Eva and Angelo, amidst the tumultuous backdrop of World War II in Italy. While countless individuals chose to remain passive and avoid attracting attention, Eva and Angelo chose to risk their lives and defy the German occupying forces in their quest to save as many people as possible. Eva’s journey, in particular, was heart-rending, as she faced the loss of loved ones without ever knowing their fate. Yet, her strength and resilience shone through, making her a remarkable and inspiring character.

As a Catholic priest, Angelo could have chosen to stay safe within the confines of the Vatican. However, his deep love for the Jewish people compelled him to take a stand and find ways to protect them, defying the expectations placed upon him. The bravery displayed by both Eva and Angelo throughout the narrative gave the story an epic and sweeping feel, taking readers on a poignant journey from their innocent childhood days in Italy to the horrors and terrors faced by Jews living under occupation during the war.

The novel’s exploration of the unimaginable terror unleashed upon the Jewish people and those who attempted to aid them was gut-wrenching and profoundly impactful. The events described were based on real historical atrocities, which made the narrative even more harrowing. Despite the constant terror that surrounded them, Eva managed to endure, with a significant portion of her strength drawn from her lifelong friend, Angelo, who supported her in every way he could.

The romantic aspect of the story, despite its seeming impossibility, deeply touched my heart. Eva and Angelo’s love story was enthralling, as it blossomed from their childhood friendship, transcending religious and societal boundaries. However, the constraints of their time and their respective faiths created seemingly insurmountable obstacles, making it uncertain whether they could ever find happiness together.

Amidst the war’s atrocities, Harmon beautifully weaves a tale that implores readers to learn from history to avoid its repetition. The author’s note eloquently expresses the hope that present generations will be aware of the past’s horrors to prevent their recurrence.

After experiencing the love, war, hope, and pain depicted in this novel, I found myself emotionally spent yet profoundly touched. The characters of Eva and Angelo will forever remain etched in my heart, and their tragically beautiful love story serves as a poignant reminder of hope during the darkest of times.

The author’s prose is captivating, and her ability to elicit a wide range of emotions from readers is commendable. From horror and grief at the atrocities committed by the Nazis to admiration and hope for the characters’ resilience and bravery, the emotional journey is both powerful and thought-provoking.

In conclusion, From Sand and Ash is a gripping and heart-wrenching novel that delves into the depths of human experience during one of the darkest periods in history. Amy Harmon’s storytelling prowess shines through as she crafts a tale of love, sacrifice, and the indomitable human spirit. I was thoroughly engrossed by this captivating book, and I highly recommend it to anyone seeking a poignant and beautifully written historical fiction novel. With its powerful portrayal of love and humanity amidst the horrors of war, From Sand and Ash is a must-read that will stay with you long after the final page.