Reviews

I didn’t really know much about Rossano Brazzi except for a couple of his most famous films but, once I started reading, I was completely drawn in and couldn’t put it down. It’s interesting, entertaining and I liked the conversational style. I felt as if I was listening to him and I could see him and all the locations described even though I’ve never been there. (Rod. S)

I really enjoyed it. The author has achieved a really good balance in writing about Rossano, his life, career and relationship. She has also done this alongside giving the historical/political situation he was living in at the time. I got a real flavour of Italian culture, and the beauty of Italy architecturally. The historical aspects of cinema and censorship. It is very well researched. (Pat. B)

A good read. I really got caught up in it all. His story is interesting and, in some respects, a page turner. Not just a biography. (ML Knight)

It's strange how one picks up a book and doesn't realise they're interested in the subject matter until they actually start reading. I would not have actively sought Rossano Brazzi out as a choice to read about but am glad I did. A man who I found myself having extreme admiration for and wishing I could be like him. This, for me, says a lot about the skills of the author. She drew me into believing that you were actually in his presence chatting with him. It was him speaking so I got to know him (and his wife) through her. I could visualise the places spoken about. It wasn't just reading a history or stories. He was brought to life. 

An enjoyable, informative and easy read for me. (K. Howe)

A well researched and highly interesting biography about one of 'old Hollywoods' icons that reveals many fascinating aspects of the life of the ultimate 'Italian Romeo' - a must read for the lovers of old style romantics. 'Female First Online Magazine.'

Thanks to accidentally catching South Pacific on TCM, I was also taken away by his performance. While browsing Amazon for my own copy, I noticed an ad for your book. It arrived Sept 6. I wish to thank you on several counts. First, I think, for taking such an in-depth effort to reveal a life that was truly extraordinary. Second, for taking an unusual approach to revealing the man himself. Dubious at first, I expected the usual straight-down-the-line and somewhat boring rendition of facts and figures. I was pleasantly surprised and finished it just now after starting it yesterday afternoon. I continue to be amazed by the breadth and depth of this man's life. Linda M.

I have just finished the biography of Rossano Brazzi. I loved it! I feel as if I have walked the 'journey' with him myself. You made it so real and personal. Sometimes when you have admired someone from afar, when you find a closer inspection it reveals 'feet of clay' but not so here. In fact I love him more, the more you reveal. 

This book is not just a biography; it's a history lesson and a geography lesson. Thank you for putting in all that research. I shall read it again and again and again.

Christine S.

Imagine strolling around Rome and Florence whilst talking with handsome, charismatic Rossano Brazzi, the famous actor and singer. This is exactly what the author of this book does. Usually, I don’t like fictionalised biographies but as a longtime admirer of Brazzi, she does it very well. She also talks with his relatives and friends so we receive a well-rounded view of him. He was an old-fashioned Italian man, bigger than life, a lover of women so he wasn’t always faithful to the warmhearted jolly Lydia but she didn’t seem to mind and he had other faults as well. However, an intellectual and lawyer as well as an actor, Rossano was extremely charismatic and likeable with great resilience which got him through hard times.

This is also a history of the era, including Rome’s La Dolce Vita, when all the movie-stars descended on the beautiful city and they all lived the wonderfully glamorous high life. It was certainly the place to be if you were famous and wealthy!

I really enjoyed this. It made me want to look for his films again.

Lisa S.

I have always loved Rossano Brazzi and was happy to find this well researched, detailed yet imagined biography. A very unique take on this genre. The writing is very well done with great voice given to Rossano, his wife Lydia and others. Ms. Florkiewicz’s portrayal of Rossano Brazzi is unbiased and gives a multi- dimensional view of the man.

Christine D.