Reviews

Historical Novel Review – Febryary 1, 2012
“…This wonderful debut novel grabs the reader from the first word. The history of World War II in Italy is gently woven through this story where character, courage and love win the day. I did not want the story to end. An excellent story, beautifully written. Highly recommended.”
— Monica E. Spence Pioneer Press (St. Paul, MN) – February 5, 2012
“Wurtele perfectly captures the emotions of a young woman whose life is turned upside down by war. And she offers an interesting look at Giovanna’s father, who is a follower of dictator Benito Mussolini before the war and is at first angry with his son for fighting with the partisans. The story is told by Giovanna, looking back 50 years and commenting on her choices during the war”.
‘The Golden Hour’ is a Midwest Connections pick of Midwest Independent Booksellers Association and a feature of the Doubleday Book Club, Literary Guild and Book of the Month club online.”

Star Tribune (Minneapolis) – February 4, 2012
“…the book’s engaging young heroine and clear, accessible prose make it a suitable read for a range of ages… …It’s part historical novel, part adventure story and part romance, kept together by a flawed, naïve narrator who struggles to do the right thing in the heightened circumstances of war.”

Booklist – January 1, 2012
“This smoothly written debut presents Giovanna’s coming-of-age as she breaks away from her family’s protectiveness and finds a noble calling in aiding Italy’s partisan fighters, including her brother, Giorgio. Wurtele captures the innocence and impetuousness of youth as Giovanna explores her attraction to a handsome Nazi lieutenant and later falls in love with Mario, a Jewish man who was badly wounded in the resistance movement. Wurtele carefully looks beyond religious and cultural stereotypes, and her heroine’s character growth is moving and realistic.”
— Sarah Johnson