This list of books are ONLY the books that have been ranked on the lists that are aggregated on this site. This is not a comprehensive list of all books by this author.

1. 1. Big Stone Gap

   

   Set in a small Appalachian town in the late 1970s, the story follows Ave Maria Mulligan, a self-proclaimed spinster and the town's pharmacist, whose life takes an unexpected turn after discovering a family secret. As she navigates the complexities of her newfound identity, Ave Maria embarks on a journey of self-discovery, love, and community, encountering a colorful cast of characters along the way. The narrative explores themes of belonging, family, and the transformative power of embracing change, all set against the backdrop of a close-knit, vibrant community.

2. 2. Big Cherry Holler

   A Big Stone Gap Novel

   

   Set in the Appalachian Mountains, the story follows Ave Maria Mulligan as she navigates the complexities of marriage, family, and community in the small town of Big Stone Gap. Struggling with the aftermath of personal loss and the challenges of maintaining her relationship with her husband, Jack, Ave Maria embarks on a journey of self-discovery and healing. As she confronts her past and the secrets that have long been buried, she learns about the resilience of love and the importance of forgiveness, ultimately finding strength in the bonds of friendship and the enduring spirit of her close-knit community.

3. 3. Milk Glass Moon

   A Big Stone Gap Novel

   

   The novel follows the evolving relationship between a mother, Ave Maria Mulligan, and her daughter, Etta, as they navigate the complexities of growing up and letting go. Set against the backdrop of the charming and close-knit community of Big Stone Gap, the story captures the bittersweet moments of motherhood, the challenges of adolescence, and the enduring bonds of family and friendship. As Etta matures and begins to forge her own path, Ave Maria must come to terms with her own dreams and desires, ultimately finding peace and acceptance in the changing dynamics of their lives.

4. 4. The Shoemaker's Wife

   

   Set against the backdrop of the early 20th century, this novel follows the intertwined lives of two star-crossed lovers, Enza and Ciro, who emigrate from Italy to America in search of a better future. Their journey is marked by love, ambition, and resilience as they navigate the challenges of immigrant life, separation, and the pursuit of their dreams. Despite the obstacles they face, their enduring connection and the power of destiny ultimately bring them together, weaving a rich tapestry of family, tradition, and the enduring spirit of love.
5. 5. Rococo

   

   The novel is a vibrant and humorous exploration of family, community, and the transformative power of art, centered around a charismatic interior decorator in a small New Jersey town. As he embarks on his dream project of renovating his local church, he navigates the complexities of his Italian-American family, friendships, and romantic entanglements. The story captures the essence of personal ambition and the pursuit of beauty, all while highlighting the warmth and quirks of small-town life. Through its colorful characters and vivid descriptions, the book celebrates creativity and the enduring bonds that shape our lives.

6. 6. Tony's Wife

   

   Set against the backdrop of the vibrant music scene from the 1940s to the 1980s, this novel tells the compelling story of two talented Italian-Americans, Chi Chi Donatelli and Tony Arma, whose dreams of stardom intertwine with their tumultuous personal lives. As they navigate the highs and lows of their careers, their relationship is tested by ambition, love, and the challenges of family life. Through decades of change, they must confront the sacrifices required to pursue their dreams while holding onto the bonds that truly matter.

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7. 7. The View From Lake Como

   

   Set against the picturesque backdrop of Italy's Lake Como, this novel weaves a tale of love, family, and self-discovery. The protagonist, a talented artisan, finds herself at a crossroads, torn between the allure of her artistic ambitions and the pull of familial obligations. As she navigates the complexities of her relationships, both romantic and familial, she learns to reconcile her past with her aspirations for the future. Through vivid descriptions and heartfelt storytelling, the narrative explores themes of identity, passion, and the enduring bonds that shape our lives.

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