Subject
Italians -- America -- Fiction Books
Best books
Martin Brown
Cobra
"Cobra" by Martin Brown and Russell Holman is a novelization of a famous stage success, likely written in the early 20th century. This story unfolds in the enchanting scenery of Southern Italy, where themes of love, jealousy, and societal expectation are interwoven. The main characters include the charming Count Rodrigo Torriani and the spirited Rosa Minardi, hinting at a romantic entanglement that promises both passion and conflict. The opening of "Cobra" captures a vivid scene at the Café Del Mare, where various patrons, including the American John Dorning and the Italian aristocrat Count Rodrigo, become embroiled in an unexpected confrontation. As tensions rise, particularly involving Rosa's overbearing father Victor Minardi, who accuses Dorning of having injured his daughter emotionally, the narrative sets the stage for a complex relationship between the characters. The interplay of class and desire is highlighted, introducing Rodrigo's carefree lifestyle juxtaposed with the budding feelings and tumultuous connections with Rosa. This chaotic atmosphere at the café foreshadows the conflicts and dramatic stakes that will drive the plot forward.
Mary Hastings Bradley
The Innocent Adventuress
"The Innocent Adventuress" by Mary Hastings Bradley is a novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a young Italian girl named Maria Angelina Santonini, who embarks on a journey to America at the behest of her mother, hoping to ease the financial burdens of her family while seeking romance and adventure. Faced with societal expectations, familial duties, and her own hopes, Maria finds herself navigating a new world of possibilities. The opening of the novel presents Maria Angelina eavesdropping on a conversation within her family, where they discuss the financial struggles related to her sister's upcoming marriage. It is revealed that Maria, regarded as the family's hope for a prosperous future, is to be sent to America to meet wealthy relatives, thus potentially securing a better dowry for her sisters. As she contemplates her journey, Maria's excitement intermingles with anxiety about leaving her home and the weight of responsibility she feels. The narrative sets the stage for her adventure, highlighting her naivety and determination as she prepares to face the unknown in her new life.
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