OTHER SIDE OF COMO Format: Paperback

Fiction. Beginning in 1931, amongst the dreary slums of London's Docklands, THE OTHER SIDE OF COMO takes us on a journey across mid-century Europe as it suffers the greatest war ever known. Based on true events, this is the story of Vivian, a young woman lost by the poor prospects available to her in England, leaves home and family for love. Love of a man, but also love of Northern Italy — the rich landscape of the Grigna mountains; the lakes Como, Maggiore, Lugano; and the prosperous industrious city of Milan. As the shadow of Fascism draws over Italy, Vivian must watch as her happiness is gradually destroyed.

"Fox has the gift to describe public and private matters, people who act bravely and others who, for complex reasons, get into fascist uniforms and become enemies. I recommend it to English-speaking readers for its richness, humanity and uniqueness as a story."—Jonathan Steinberg

Mara G. Fox was born in London, spent a childhood in Brighton and now lives in Cambridge. She has a BA in English and European Thought and Literature and an MA in Modern British Literature, was called to the bar in 1990 and practised as a criminal barrister for 20 years. Based on her mother's experiences in Italy during World War II, this is her first novel.