BELLA FORTUNA

Cassandra Campbell gives a persuasive rendering of this novel with a dynamic range of voices that moves between a nasally New York twang to a melodic Italian accent. Campbell’s smooth reading savors descriptions, capturing the nuances of bridal shop owner Valentina DeLuca’s life in Astoria, as well as the traditions and attitudes of a quirky blend of family members and their Italian culture. Campbell’s heartfelt performance conveys the emotional ups and downs of life—from Valentina’s adolescent traumas to the death of her father and the details of wedding planning. Though consistently clear and moving, Campbell’s reading is particularly vibrant in her rich and seamless delivery when Valentina discovers Venice and a sense of herself. M.F. © AudioFile 2012, Portland, Maine [Published: OCTOBER 2012]