“This is an impeccably researched novel, borne out by the extensive bibliography of English and Italian sources, and the author’s love of her motherland is evident…”
–Historical Novel Society

“This is what I expect from a good historical fiction novel–to be entertained as well as educated, and this novel did this brilliantly.”
—Ottawa Review of Books

“This is a beautiful novel, one that vividly recreates the heartbreak and drama of one of the most turbulent periods in Italian history.”
–Nino Ricci, award-winning author of The Origins of Species, Testament, and Sleep

“In the writing and storytelling of La Brigantessa, Rosanna Battigelli reflects the very passion and glory, the suffering and hope of the times that her Gabriella Falcone must endure and over which she must triumph. La Brigantessa is written with great heart and conviction–such that, in an era when truth is at a premium, no one will question the truth of this narrative. In fact, the great achievement of this novel is that Rosanna Battigelli is able to make fiction feel truer than truth, truer than non-fiction. Bravo!”
–Joseph Kertes, founder of The Humber School for Writers and author of Gratitude and The Afterlife of Stars

“Based on actual events, La Brigantessa is the triumphant, epic tale of a young woman’s incredible courage and resilience during one of Italy’s most tumultuous decades. This heart-wrenching, unforgettable novel was an addictive read that will stay with me for years.”
&mdashl Mirella Sichirollo Patzer, author of The Orphan of the Olive Tree and The Prophetic Queen

“In this historically accurate novel, Rosanna Battigelli uses every detail from pigeon soup to Southern Italian traditions to bad omens, bad luck, and retaliation. As unpredictable as summer storm clouds, as enjoyable as homemade Calabrian sausages, you should read this book with a glass of strong red wine and a supply of baci chocolates.”
–Maria Coletta McLean, author of My Father Came From Italy and Summers in Supino: Becoming Italian

“La Brigantessa is a feast for the senses. The author’s visceral descriptions of events, both terrifying and exhilarating, instantly transport the reader to the sun-bleached hills of Post-Unification Calabria. The novel is a meditation on class, politics, and women’s roles without losing sight of intrigue and adventure.”
–Michaela Di Cesare, playwright and author of In Search of Mrs. Pirandello and Successions