The Walls of Lucca (Martellino series)

I am in the hospital (another story for another day) at 12:30 at night and just finished The Walls of Lucca. The nurses keep asking me what I am reading. I tell them that it is a really good book based in Italy from WWI through the rise of Mussolini but told from the perspective of an extended farming family that includes the owners and workers. It has a great story with a spiritual theme that runs through it in a way that makes you think without distracting from a really great story.

Clearly an amazing amount of research and effort went into making the setting and experiences real, making me feel like I was there observing rather than reading.

I have read plenty of first novels. This isn’t a first novel. This is a great book!

Can’t wait for the next one.

I must encourage you to read this exceptional book! Not only is it set in my favorite city in Italy it is a beautifully written work. Each character comes alive and lives in your heart! Can't wait for the next volume. The period from pre WWI through the early 30's was a tough time in Europe and especially in Italy. You will fall in love with this unique novel written from a most uplifting "angle" guaranteed to give you hope! My upcoming two months in Lucca has a new historical perspective.

Steve captures the imagination with his descriptions of the bleak experiences of the military men to the beauty of the countryside for those away from war. The characters are so interesting and one get's caught up in their story. A great read.

Check this out! Kansas City Royals broadcaster Steve Physioc has just published his first novel, a story of love and war, set against the backdrop of World War I and its aftermath. "The Walls of Lucca" is a thriller that traces the rise of Fascism in Italy, as two families are torn apart by war and one young woman seeks a way to heal the physical and moral wounds of war. Put this one in the To Read stack.

A great story that I did not want to end. Looking forward to reading the second book!

Steve Physioc beautifully illustrates that love and forgiveness can exist during difficult times such as post WW1 Italy . A romantic story you can appreciate the same challenges of hate , ego , and divisiveness that exist in todays world as it did within “ The Walls of Lucca”.

Absolutely superb crafting of characters, plot and history. I literally could not put it down. A novel that you actually are sad when you finish because your going to miss reading it so much. Do yourself a favor get a bottle of Chianti and curl up and read this book!

Wonderful imagery and character development in this story that takes place in early 20th century Italy.
I very much look forward to Volume 2 later in the year.

My wife and I recently returned from Italy for our third time in the last few years. The timing was perfect to read The Walls of Lucca, as it brought me right back to the beautiful scenery, wonderful food and wine, delicious olive oil and romance of this ancient country. The relationship between Bella and Franco was sweet, innocent and honest. The story and supporting characters kept things moving at a rapid pace and it was hard to put it down. We will definitely visit Lucca on our next trip to Italy and look forward to seeing the historic walls in person.

This was a great first book...exceeded my expectations. Do yourself a favor and read this book of love and forgiveness and their connection to happiness. I am currently reading the sequel...Above the Walls. Looking forward to more books by Mr Physioc.