Set against the backdrop of the Aeolian Islands in the 1500s, The Puppet Master is a captivating novel that weaves together themes of family, love, heartbreak, and tragedy, with the unique art of puppeteering at its core. The story follows brothers Edo and Nico, who are raised by their father to create and perform puppet shows across the islands. However, one fateful day changes the course of their lives forever.

As someone with a deep appreciation for Italy, this novel resonated with me. The narrative beautifully captures the brothers’ journey from childhood through adulthood and into their twilight years. Their divergent paths, shaped by pivotal choices, are explored in a thought-provoking and engaging way.

I’d highly recommend this novel to readers who have a passion for Italy, historical settings, or family dynamics in literary fiction. A solid 4 stars.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Troubador Publishing for the ARC.

An interesting story, told poetically, bringing to life sicily and the puppet masters job many years ago. I found the little details mesmerising throughout this and the scenes are vividly portrayed. As a lover of all things italian and the islands this brought to life something i have previously only briefly thought about.