Dal vero   By: Matilde Serao (1856-1927)

Dal vero is a captivating novel that takes the reader on a journey through the streets of Naples, Italy. Matilde Serao's vivid descriptions bring the city to life, capturing its beauty and its grittiness with equal intensity.

The novel follows the lives of several characters from different social classes, giving the reader a glimpse into the intricacies of Neapolitan society at the turn of the 20th century. Through their interactions and experiences, Serao weaves a complex and compelling narrative that touches on themes of love, loyalty, betrayal, and ambition.

One of the most striking aspects of Dal vero is Serao's ability to create characters that feel real and multidimensional. Each character is flawed and complex, making them relatable and engaging to follow. The relationships between the characters are intricate and fraught with tension, adding depth and drama to the story.

Overall, Dal vero is a rich and immersive novel that explores the complexities of human nature and society. Serao's writing is lyrical and evocative, drawing the reader in and keeping them hooked until the very end. This is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and Italian literature.

First Page:

Di certo il fanciullo era bellissimo. Aveva gli occhi grandi ed azzurri, ma di quell'azzurro vero, leale che non diventa mai nero di sera; il bianco della cornea era anche irradiato da una tinta bluastra, cosa che faceva sembrare anche più grande la pupilla: i lumi della sala, riflettendosi in quegli occhi azzurri, vi accendevano una stella luccicante, una sola. Poi era biondo; non tendente al giallo, come la Gioconda di Leonardo da Vinci, nè al fulvo, come la Maddalena del Tiziano, e nemmeno come dovette essere biondo il danese Amleto: quei capelli erano fini, lucidi, biondi e dolci alla vista, riposavano lo sguardo stanco da tante teste sfrontatamente brune... Continue reading book >>