Originally published on my blog: http://therelentlessreader.blogspot.com/2013/07/the-light-in-ruins-by-chris-bohjalian.htmlThere's no way to pigeonhole Chris Bohjalian's latest book. It's a murder mystery, but it's not a typical murder mystery. There's romance, but it's not your usual romance. It's historical fiction, but it's about a time and place that hasn't been featured in many books.The upheaval in Italy during WWII cannot be overstated. Bohjalian brings this period to life by focusing on the struggles of the Rosati family. Germany and Italy are allies...until they aren't. Loyalty becomes a very sticky subject.A decade after the end of the war members of the Rosati family are being targeted by a vengeful killer. Do the murders have something to do with the way the family conducted itself during the war? No spoilers here! I hope you're as surprised by the ending as I was.The Light in the Ruins is a well-crafted and polished tale. The setting is impressive and the characters are convincing. Mr. Bohjalian has done it again. I'll absolutely be looking forward to whatever he writes next.
