Original review posted at between-the-shelves.com!

Thank you to NetGalley and Berkley for sending me an ARC of this to review! This isn't something that's necessarily in my wheelhouse, but it sounded interesting enough. It's essentially a coming of age story, set in the backdrop of 1950s Italy. Since I don't know many historical fiction novels set in Italy, I thought I'd give it a whirl!

Those looking for a plot driven story definitely won't find it in this book. Belladonna is definitely a character and setting driven story. And the characters aren't always likable. However, there is a lot of substance there, and Salam draws you in slowly to this world she's created. The theme of obsession is reflected in the style the book is written in.

However, the book does move a bit too slowly for me at times. I wish I could have gotten a bit more about what was happening outside of the school, to give a little more historical context. Despite that, Salam has a knack for description, easily pulling you into this school in Northern Italy.

If you're looking for a book with strong characters, theme, and setting, this is definitely the book for you! Historical fiction fans won't be disappointed.