Brutal Love, one of the most significant and original novels of Italian literature in recent years, is the novel that first showcased the talent of Elena Ferrante. The story revolves around the relationship between Delia and her mother Amalia, a relationship built with harshness and passion.
“My mother drowned on the night of May 23, my birthday, in the waters opposite that place everyone calls Spaccanapoli...” With these words, the story begins. What happened to Amalia? Who was with her on the night of her death? Was she always the contradictory and uncontainable woman her daughter imagined? Delia's investigations unfold in a suffocating Naples, transforming a family affair into a breathless thriller.
“For Kafka, a book should be an axe for the frozen sea within us. And Ferrante constantly chisels at the ice.” The New York Times
“A masterfully crafted and complex story, harsh and brilliant.” Dacia Maraini
“The great books about Naples were written by Elena Ferrante.” Franco Cordelli, Corriere della Sera
“The greatest Italian writer since Elsa Morante.” Antonio D’Orrico, Sette/Corriere della Sera
