Santo Fico is an old forgotten village in Tuscany. Tourist buses rush by its inconvenient, perilous location on the way to bigger better destinations on the Italian coast. Visitors to Santo Fico are usually lost. Residents open the hotel restaurant and offer tours of "The Miracle and the Mystery" to get some tourist lire. The lives and events of the villagers unfold in The Miracles of Santo Fico.
D.L. Smith's debut novel revolves around a handful of residents. Leo Pizzola managed to get away to Chicago, but is now stuck back home trying to sell his late father's farm. Marta Fortino is the beautiful childhood friend who hasn't spoken to him since her wedding night. Carmen and Nina are Marta's two teenage daughters. Father Elio is the depressed priest of a declining congregation.
Each character has his or her own troubles and the mood in town is grim. A pre-dawn earthquake rattles nerves, damages buildings and unleashes a series of events that lead to a miraculous conclusion. Readers will enjoy watching the dust clear in this sentimental tale.
The plot takes a windy path, similar to the road that leads to the village. The characters and their quirks are somewhat endearing. Leo's weaknesses are stronger than his qualities, however, and it's difficult to see him as a hero. Marta doesn't smile until the end of the book. Only Father Elio is wholly illustrated for readers.
The Miracles of Santo Fico is described as "Chocolat meets Il Postino." Smith combines romance, humor and some amusing stunts to provide a timeless story. The plot strays from the line, but the quaint ending will satisfy sentimental readers who appreciate life's little miracles.
