Battle of the Villa Fiorita

More about the book

Two English children, Hugh and Caddie Clavering, embark on a journey to Italy to rescue their mother from her lover and mend their fractured family. Their lives have been turned upside down by their parents' bitter divorce, with their once-stable home replaced by a London flat and uncertainty surrounding their beloved pony, Topaz. The upheaval began when renowned movie director Rob Quillet captivated their mother, Fanny, leading her to abandon her family for a life in northern Italy. While fourteen-year-old Hugh navigates the complexities of adulthood, he remains fiercely protective of his twelve-year-old sister, Caddie, who is determined to fight against their situation and the hollow sympathy of adults. Together, they decide to take matters into their own hands, traveling alone across Europe to confront Quillet at his picturesque villa by Lake Garda. Their mission is clear: they must bring their mother home to restore peace to their lives. This novel beautifully combines heart, wit, and poignancy, vividly capturing the lush Northern Italian landscape while exploring themes of family and resilience. Rumer Godden delivers another unforgettable experience, showcasing her signature storytelling prowess.