Martellino

GOLD MEDAL WINNER of the 2019 Readers' Favorite International Book Award Contest (Fiction - Inspirational) When Franco, a weary Italian soldier who's seen some of the worst of World War I, stumbles onto the Martellino vineyard, he's looking for work - not love. But he finds that and much more with Isabella, the feisty young woman who works there. Franco pours himself into the vineyard, trying to create a wine that will save it from financial ruin and rescue him from his dark memories of war. But it's not easy when Mussolini's evil shadow continues to loom over all of Italy. It's even harder when Susanna, the vineyard's matriarch, invites that shadow to the vineyard with her involvement in Fascist politics - and one very sinister political operative. Influenced by the teachings of A Course In Miracles, The Walls of Lucca is historical fiction that shows readers the power of love and forgiveness in the face of evil. Compelling, colorful characters populate an authentic, inspiring story of friendship, faith, love and loss in a tumultuous time in European history.

For eight years, the Fascist politician Alfredo Obizzi has kept quiet about his affair with Susanna Martellino, the matriarch of the Martellino vineyard. Now in 1938 Italy, Obizzi uses his growing political power to seek revenge on his past enemies, and Susanna and the vineyard's spiritual leader, Isabella, are at the top of his list. Will faith and forgiveness be enough to lead the vineyard and its inhabitants through the bloodshed and heartbreak of World War II and Obizzi's vengeance? Meanwhile, the vineyard's next generation, DeAngelo and Lily, have been best friends since they were born. But now - is it more? The star-crossed lovers must push through war, distance and outside forces to find out. Influenced by the teachings of A Course in Miracles, Above the Walls is historical fiction that shows readers the power of love and forgiveness in the face of evil. The turmoil of war intertwines with danger and sacrifice at home in Lucca - with friendship and romance at the heart of the story.