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The Proxy Bride
In 1939, Giacinta sets sail from Italy to Australia. Decades later, a granddaughter discovers the true story of her family... A stunningly crafted novel of family, secrets and facing adversity.
Imagine marrying someone you've never met ...
When Sofie comes to stay with her grandmother in Stanthorpe, she knows little of Nonna Gia's past. In the heat of that 1984 summer, the two clash over Gia's strict Italian ways and superstitions, her chilli-laden spaghetti and the evasive silence surrounding Sofie's father, who died before she was born. Then Sofie learns Gia had an arranged marriage. From there, the past begins to reveal why no-one will talk of her father.
As Nonna Gia cooks, furtively adding a little more chilli each time, she also begins feeding Sofie her stories. How she came to Australia on a 'bride ship', among many proxy brides, knowing little about the husbands they had married from afar. Most arriving to find someone much different than described.
Then, as World War II takes over the nation, and in the face of the growing animosity towards Italians that sees their husbands interned, Gia and her friends are left alone. Impoverished. Desperate. To keep their farms going, their only hope is banding together, along with Edie, a reclusive artist on the neighbouring farm and two Women's Land Army workers. But the venture is made near-impossible by the hatred towards the women held by the local publican and an illicit love between Gia and an Australian, Keith.
The summer burns on and the truth that unfolds is nothing like what Sofie expected ...
The author of Mezza Italiana brings to life a unique point of migrant women's untold experience, in a resonant novel of family, food and love. Includes 12 traditional recipes.
Imagine marrying someone you've never met ...
When Sofie comes to stay with her grandmother in Stanthorpe, she knows little of Nonna Gia's past. In the heat of that 1984 summer, the two clash over Gia's strict Italian ways and superstitions, her chilli-laden spaghetti and the evasive silence surrounding Sofie's father, who died before she was born. Then Sofie learns Gia had an arranged marriage. From there, the past begins to reveal why no-one will talk of her father.
As Nonna Gia cooks, furtively adding a little more chilli each time, she also begins feeding Sofie her stories. How she came to Australia on a 'bride ship', among many proxy brides, knowing little about the husbands they had married from afar. Most arriving to find someone much different than described.
Then, as World War II takes over the nation, and in the face of the growing animosity towards Italians that sees their husbands interned, Gia and her friends are left alone. Impoverished. Desperate. To keep their farms going, their only hope is banding together, along with Edie, a reclusive artist on the neighbouring farm and two Women's Land Army workers. But the venture is made near-impossible by the hatred towards the women held by the local publican and an illicit love between Gia and an Australian, Keith.
The summer burns on and the truth that unfolds is nothing like what Sofie expected ...
The author of Mezza Italiana brings to life a unique point of migrant women's untold experience, in a resonant novel of family, food and love. Includes 12 traditional recipes.
400 pages, Mass Market Paperback
Published September 7, 2022
67 people are currently reading
321 people want to read
About the author
Zoe Boccabella
3books24followersZoë Boccabella is an Australian author of both non-fiction and fiction. Her books have been much acclaimed, selected for literary and popular awards and sold internationally. Zoë’s migrant ancestry and handed-down recipes influence her writing, along with subtropical Brisbane, where she was born and lives, as well as travels in Europe and Australia. With a degree in literature, film and sociology and a Master of Philosophy, she’s worked as a researcher, writer and media advisor for several levels of government, the police service, universities and freelance. Zoë also loves to cook, especially dishes from generations of women and men in her family and their varied cultural pasts, ingredients and spoken stories shared over the kitchen table.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
September 12, 2022
Giacinta and Serena, both proxy brides from Palmi, Italy, set sail for Australia in 1939, aboard what was dubbed the "bride ship" heading for men they barely knew, if at all, married already by proxy, to be united with their Italian grooms already settled in Australia. The ship docked in Brisbane where all the brides departed to their various destinations, preparing for a life in a strange country, never to see their families again. Gia's husband was Taddeo, whom she'd known as a boy, but certainly not as the man he was now, and as she settled in the rickety old Queenslander in Stanthorpe, where the farms surrounding the area were all that kept them in food, Gia knew she would work beside her husband, to make the farm successful.
When sixteen year old Sofia arrived at her Nonna Gia's farm in 1984 for her summer holidays, she had no idea about Nonna's past. All she could dwell on was her mother at home in Brisbane, and the father she knew nothing about. Her father had died before she was born but no one would talk about him. Soon though, Nonna talked to Sophia about being a proxy bride, about her past and the journey to where she was now. Nonna Gia's cooking was legendary and gradually Sophia learned that this was who Nonna was - her cooking and her past. But would she ever find anything about her father? She didn't understand why no one would talk about him...
The Proxy Bride by Aussie author Zoe Boccabella is based on fact and the stories of the proxy brides between Italy and Australia in the war years, and learning to live with a virtual stranger. The hatred by some Australians of the Italians once WWII started, the internment of Italians (mostly men) in the prisons around Brisbane (and other parts of the country) built for the purpose, for the duration of the war, the stoic strength and determination of the women left at home trying to care for their farms, pruning the fruit trees when needed, picking the fruit and loading it on trains, all the while against the brutality of the men left behind, doing all they could to make it hard for the women. The Proxy Bride is a brilliant read, and one I highly recommend.
The twelve recipes at the end of the book, after the author's notes, sound delicious!
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
When sixteen year old Sofia arrived at her Nonna Gia's farm in 1984 for her summer holidays, she had no idea about Nonna's past. All she could dwell on was her mother at home in Brisbane, and the father she knew nothing about. Her father had died before she was born but no one would talk about him. Soon though, Nonna talked to Sophia about being a proxy bride, about her past and the journey to where she was now. Nonna Gia's cooking was legendary and gradually Sophia learned that this was who Nonna was - her cooking and her past. But would she ever find anything about her father? She didn't understand why no one would talk about him...
The Proxy Bride by Aussie author Zoe Boccabella is based on fact and the stories of the proxy brides between Italy and Australia in the war years, and learning to live with a virtual stranger. The hatred by some Australians of the Italians once WWII started, the internment of Italians (mostly men) in the prisons around Brisbane (and other parts of the country) built for the purpose, for the duration of the war, the stoic strength and determination of the women left at home trying to care for their farms, pruning the fruit trees when needed, picking the fruit and loading it on trains, all the while against the brutality of the men left behind, doing all they could to make it hard for the women. The Proxy Bride is a brilliant read, and one I highly recommend.
The twelve recipes at the end of the book, after the author's notes, sound delicious!
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
January 2, 2023
Four and a half stars
In Palmi, Calabria Italy 1939, Gia is married by proxy to Taddeo, who is already living in Queensland Australia. Then Gia proceeds along with others who are proxy brides, including her friend Serena, to meet the man she is now married to. Many proxy brides had never met their husbands before they arrived in Australia, whereas Gia had known Taddeo as a young boy. But it is still a massive change to be married to a man she hardly knows, a new country and away from family. She misses her family and also the sea.
In 1984 in Stanthorpe Queensland, Sofía is brought by her mother Elena to stay with her grandmother for the summer. No one will talk about Sofia’s father. She longs to find out about him. Sofía knows nothing about Nonna Gia's past. Over the coming days and weeks Nonna tells Sofía stories of her past. Sofie comes to understand how hard life was for Italians who lived in Australia, especially with the Second World War when men of Italian heritage were interned. The wives, including Gia and Serena had to find a way to manage the orchards on their own while their men are absent. But it is not easy. Anger against Italians abounds from many and with violent attacks from Jack Armstrong and his mates. Secrets spill out and in time Sofia learns why no one wanted to talk about her father.
This is an excellent historical novel some of it based on the author’s Italian grandparents. I admit I had no idea how many proxy brides came out to Australia to marry Italian men already here or of the racism and problems they encountered, so that made this book very interesting. I did find the earlier time line story of more interest than that of Sofia. I didn’t warm to the sixteen year old much. Have to say I got sick of hearing about Dean Martin and his songs too.
Good to read the time line and history of events included at the back and Italian recipes are an added bonus. Another great Aussie historical novel that I definitely recommend.
In Palmi, Calabria Italy 1939, Gia is married by proxy to Taddeo, who is already living in Queensland Australia. Then Gia proceeds along with others who are proxy brides, including her friend Serena, to meet the man she is now married to. Many proxy brides had never met their husbands before they arrived in Australia, whereas Gia had known Taddeo as a young boy. But it is still a massive change to be married to a man she hardly knows, a new country and away from family. She misses her family and also the sea.
In 1984 in Stanthorpe Queensland, Sofía is brought by her mother Elena to stay with her grandmother for the summer. No one will talk about Sofia’s father. She longs to find out about him. Sofía knows nothing about Nonna Gia's past. Over the coming days and weeks Nonna tells Sofía stories of her past. Sofie comes to understand how hard life was for Italians who lived in Australia, especially with the Second World War when men of Italian heritage were interned. The wives, including Gia and Serena had to find a way to manage the orchards on their own while their men are absent. But it is not easy. Anger against Italians abounds from many and with violent attacks from Jack Armstrong and his mates. Secrets spill out and in time Sofia learns why no one wanted to talk about her father.
This is an excellent historical novel some of it based on the author’s Italian grandparents. I admit I had no idea how many proxy brides came out to Australia to marry Italian men already here or of the racism and problems they encountered, so that made this book very interesting. I did find the earlier time line story of more interest than that of Sofia. I didn’t warm to the sixteen year old much. Have to say I got sick of hearing about Dean Martin and his songs too.
Good to read the time line and history of events included at the back and Italian recipes are an added bonus. Another great Aussie historical novel that I definitely recommend.
July 11, 2022
In the summer of 1984, Sofie isn’t happy when her mum Elena has to work and she takes her to stay with her Nonna Gia in Stanthorpe, Queensland. Her grandmother is very old fashioned, she’s extremely superstitious and a strict catholic. Sofie feels like her summer is ruined, her friends have made plans and she’s stuck with her Nonna.
What Sofie doesn’t know is her Nonna is a remarkable woman, and over the course of the summer she slowly tells her granddaughter about the past and shares her family history. In 1939, Gia married her husband Taddeo Poletti by proxy in Italy, she and her fellow brides traveled to Australia by ship, and Gia knew she would never see her homeland and family again.
At twenty three Gia spoke only a little English and she had never met her older husband. Taddeo and his friend Pino both sent requests home to Palmi for brides, their properties are near each other and Gia has Serena for company and support.
When the war breaks out, the Italians living in Stanthorpe faced discrimination, animosity and eventually the men are interned in a camp. Gia and her Italian friends Vilma, Serena, Josie, neighbor Edie and two land girls Beryl and Shirley prune trees, pick fruit and look after the farms. But it’s not easy, the local publican hates Italians, he verbally abuses the women, damages their property and they have no one to help them.
Sofie never knew her Nonna was a proxy bride, many of the women didn’t tell anyone, as arranged marriages in Australia were not common, they already felt different being Italian and let alone informing judgmental people they married a complete stranger.
I received a copy of The Proxy Bride From NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. Zoe Boccabella has written a interesting and insightful story about proxy marriages amongst the Italian community in Australia during the 1930’s, the challenges the women faced, and not all marriages were happy ones. The terrible prejudice they faced before and especially during the war and I had no idea they were treated so badly by the Australian government. The narrative also focuses on the growing relationship between Sofie and her Nonna, the generation gap, and how Sofie wants to know who her father was. I really admired Gia, how she overcame adversity, her sense of duty, commitment to her family, how she shared her story, and feelings with Sofie.
Five stars from me, I highly recommend this book if you have an interest in Australia’s migrant history, and at the end Nonna shares her favourite recipes.
What Sofie doesn’t know is her Nonna is a remarkable woman, and over the course of the summer she slowly tells her granddaughter about the past and shares her family history. In 1939, Gia married her husband Taddeo Poletti by proxy in Italy, she and her fellow brides traveled to Australia by ship, and Gia knew she would never see her homeland and family again.
At twenty three Gia spoke only a little English and she had never met her older husband. Taddeo and his friend Pino both sent requests home to Palmi for brides, their properties are near each other and Gia has Serena for company and support.
When the war breaks out, the Italians living in Stanthorpe faced discrimination, animosity and eventually the men are interned in a camp. Gia and her Italian friends Vilma, Serena, Josie, neighbor Edie and two land girls Beryl and Shirley prune trees, pick fruit and look after the farms. But it’s not easy, the local publican hates Italians, he verbally abuses the women, damages their property and they have no one to help them.
Sofie never knew her Nonna was a proxy bride, many of the women didn’t tell anyone, as arranged marriages in Australia were not common, they already felt different being Italian and let alone informing judgmental people they married a complete stranger.
I received a copy of The Proxy Bride From NetGalley and Harlequin Australia in exchange for an honest review. Zoe Boccabella has written a interesting and insightful story about proxy marriages amongst the Italian community in Australia during the 1930’s, the challenges the women faced, and not all marriages were happy ones. The terrible prejudice they faced before and especially during the war and I had no idea they were treated so badly by the Australian government. The narrative also focuses on the growing relationship between Sofie and her Nonna, the generation gap, and how Sofie wants to know who her father was. I really admired Gia, how she overcame adversity, her sense of duty, commitment to her family, how she shared her story, and feelings with Sofie.
Five stars from me, I highly recommend this book if you have an interest in Australia’s migrant history, and at the end Nonna shares her favourite recipes.
October 28, 2022
The Proxy Bride is a dual timeline narrative with the present day set in 1984 and the historical side starting from 1939 and continuing through the second world war.
Many men who immigrated from Italy to Australia and started farming in country towns had no chance of meeting a prospective wife so arrangements were made with their family back home to send a bride. It wasn't proper for unmarried women to travel alone so the women were married by proxy and then sent by ship to a man and a land they had never seen. This is how Gia and Taddeo became husband and wife.
Sixteen-year-old Sofie spends the school holidays at her grandmother nonna's house in rural southern Queensland. Sofie was sullen and reticent, taken from all her friends in Brisbane, and she wasn't going to go easy on Gia, her nonna. Sofie's characterization was perfect and I could easily imagine a 16 year old sulking over having to spend the holidays with her grandmother. As the two spend time together cooking (all the recipes are in the back of the book) they start to talk and Sofie learns Gia's story. Her life, her loves and her tragedies.
This story was quite emotional as Gia describes her arrival in Australia, how the Italian community were spurned by locals, the atrocities that happened during WWII, the men interned and women left to fend for themselves.
There is also a mystery surrounding Sofie's father, a secret that has followed Sofie all her life and a topic her mother refuses to talk about.
The Proxy Bride is brimming with family and love and the food that ties it all together. Boccabella highlights the volatility of the fruit growing industry, raging prejudices during the 1940's, forbidden love and the strength and perseverance of the women who came to call Australia home.
There is much to love in Zoë Boccabella's latest novel.
*I received my copy from the publisher
September 9, 2022
This is a beautiful story set across two timelines and mostly in Stanthorpe Queensland we get to meet young Sophie and her Nonna Gia, as Gia opens up about her past and how she came to Australia, is there a reason Nonna is finally talking to Sofie, could it be something to do with what Sophie wants so badly to know, a must read story.
It is 1984 and Sofie has gone to spend the summer holidays with her Nonna, Sofie is not overly happy as she thinks she is old enough to be at home on her own when her mother is at work, Sofie is really wanting to know more about the father she never met and Nonna and Sofie are locking horns about many small things this holiday and Nonna starts to tell Sofie the story of how she arrived in Australia back in 1939 on what was known as the bride ship.
Sofie learns about Nonna Gia being a proxy bride about leaving her family in Palmi Calabria, arriving in Australia with a number of proxy brides all who settle in Stanthorpe about meeting their neighbour Keith, about how their lives moved on and what happened when World War 2 broke out and how her grandfather Nonno Taddeo was put in an internment camp and how Gia and the other wives worked the orchards so as they could live and how the people of the town treated them and how they coped with life.
Sofie is shocked to learn about her Nonna’s past and then she meets a young local boy Tim, she is drawn to him and Nonna is not happy that she is, is there a reason for all that she has learnt this summer? Is Nonna helping Sofie so as when she discovers things that she has wanted for so long it will make her understand? They have cooked together and both have opened up about so many things, and Sofie has learnt so much.
This really is a fabulous story, one that I would highly recommend, I loved it from the start, and learning about what it was like to be an immigrant when times were hard, to cope with the prejudices and learn to get on with life with what it throws at you, I loved Gia such a strong woman and Sofie she is a lovely young girl who wanted answers and got them. And then there is the food oh my, what awesome food and the recipes are in the book, don’t miss this one.
My thanks to the publisher Harlequin AU for my copy to read and review.
It is 1984 and Sofie has gone to spend the summer holidays with her Nonna, Sofie is not overly happy as she thinks she is old enough to be at home on her own when her mother is at work, Sofie is really wanting to know more about the father she never met and Nonna and Sofie are locking horns about many small things this holiday and Nonna starts to tell Sofie the story of how she arrived in Australia back in 1939 on what was known as the bride ship.
Sofie learns about Nonna Gia being a proxy bride about leaving her family in Palmi Calabria, arriving in Australia with a number of proxy brides all who settle in Stanthorpe about meeting their neighbour Keith, about how their lives moved on and what happened when World War 2 broke out and how her grandfather Nonno Taddeo was put in an internment camp and how Gia and the other wives worked the orchards so as they could live and how the people of the town treated them and how they coped with life.
Sofie is shocked to learn about her Nonna’s past and then she meets a young local boy Tim, she is drawn to him and Nonna is not happy that she is, is there a reason for all that she has learnt this summer? Is Nonna helping Sofie so as when she discovers things that she has wanted for so long it will make her understand? They have cooked together and both have opened up about so many things, and Sofie has learnt so much.
This really is a fabulous story, one that I would highly recommend, I loved it from the start, and learning about what it was like to be an immigrant when times were hard, to cope with the prejudices and learn to get on with life with what it throws at you, I loved Gia such a strong woman and Sofie she is a lovely young girl who wanted answers and got them. And then there is the food oh my, what awesome food and the recipes are in the book, don’t miss this one.
My thanks to the publisher Harlequin AU for my copy to read and review.
September 19, 2022
16 year old Sofie, reluctantly separated from her friends in Brisbane, must spend the school holidays with her Nonna Gia on the tablelands, while her mum is involved in a work project. She has no dad, there is no talk of him except that he died before she was born. Sofie spends her time begrudgingly cooking with her grandmother, who incrementally adds home-grown chili to dishes until she deems Sofie ready � hard memories of family history are bearable with the comfort of food, and a Dean Martin soundtrack.
The White Australia policy was in full force during the 1930s, allowing European men as ‘white aliens� into the country if they were sponsored and had work lined up. Local girls were warned off migrants, and not rich enough to return to home, the men resorted to proxy marriages � brides married stand-in grooms and travelled overseas to be ‘reunited� with their husband, perhaps never having even met the man. Not being a love union, there was a stigma that kept the arrangement secret.
In 1939 Gia leaves her family, friends, dreams and stone house by the sea in Palmi, Italy, and boards a bride ship with Piccante Calabrese seeds and a chili-shaped cornicello amulet gifted to her by her Nonna. She is heading to her new husband Taddeo in Stanthorpe, Qld. Theirs is an inauspicious start to married life, Taddeo is aloof, the isolated and meagre home not what had been depicted in a photo, the outlying neighbours hidden by orchards and eucalypts. They socialise only with other Italians, although their closest neighbours Keith Dawson and his reclusive artist sister Edie are accepting.
The newspaper headlines get ‘blacker and wider�, war is declared, and all Italians must register and report weekly to the police. Curfews are imposed, they must endure raids on their homes, all mail to and from family overseas stops, and inevitably the men are interned. Driven by Keith, with his sparkling blue eyes, to find out where the internees are headed, Gia is caught in an altercation with the abusive, xenophobic publican Jack Armstrong whose animosity would persist, reaching across the years.
To mollify Gia, Keith takes her to the bushranger Thunderbolt’s hideout where he divulges a few secrets including his mutual attraction to Gia. Averse to any scandal they may encounter, he honourably enlists and Edie, Gia and 3 other Italian women are left to band together to tend the orchards. With assistance from two Women’s Land Army volunteers they must contend with danger to the crops from pests, frost and hail, the male domain of the railway siding freight carriages, and Jack Armstrong’s vindictive actions. Before he is posted overseas Keith and Gia have a clandestine dalliance. So many secrets, so much hidden.
Will Sofie dare read the letters hidden in the artist’s paint box in Nonna Gia’s wardrobe? How does the surly old man across the road, and his artistic blue-eyed grandson, who Sofie is banned from talking to, fit into the family story? Will Gia have some spicy revenge?
A piece of our neglected history is brought deliciously to life by Zoe Boccabella, recipes included!
Thanks to The Book Stack for an advanced reading copy.
The White Australia policy was in full force during the 1930s, allowing European men as ‘white aliens� into the country if they were sponsored and had work lined up. Local girls were warned off migrants, and not rich enough to return to home, the men resorted to proxy marriages � brides married stand-in grooms and travelled overseas to be ‘reunited� with their husband, perhaps never having even met the man. Not being a love union, there was a stigma that kept the arrangement secret.
In 1939 Gia leaves her family, friends, dreams and stone house by the sea in Palmi, Italy, and boards a bride ship with Piccante Calabrese seeds and a chili-shaped cornicello amulet gifted to her by her Nonna. She is heading to her new husband Taddeo in Stanthorpe, Qld. Theirs is an inauspicious start to married life, Taddeo is aloof, the isolated and meagre home not what had been depicted in a photo, the outlying neighbours hidden by orchards and eucalypts. They socialise only with other Italians, although their closest neighbours Keith Dawson and his reclusive artist sister Edie are accepting.
The newspaper headlines get ‘blacker and wider�, war is declared, and all Italians must register and report weekly to the police. Curfews are imposed, they must endure raids on their homes, all mail to and from family overseas stops, and inevitably the men are interned. Driven by Keith, with his sparkling blue eyes, to find out where the internees are headed, Gia is caught in an altercation with the abusive, xenophobic publican Jack Armstrong whose animosity would persist, reaching across the years.
To mollify Gia, Keith takes her to the bushranger Thunderbolt’s hideout where he divulges a few secrets including his mutual attraction to Gia. Averse to any scandal they may encounter, he honourably enlists and Edie, Gia and 3 other Italian women are left to band together to tend the orchards. With assistance from two Women’s Land Army volunteers they must contend with danger to the crops from pests, frost and hail, the male domain of the railway siding freight carriages, and Jack Armstrong’s vindictive actions. Before he is posted overseas Keith and Gia have a clandestine dalliance. So many secrets, so much hidden.
Will Sofie dare read the letters hidden in the artist’s paint box in Nonna Gia’s wardrobe? How does the surly old man across the road, and his artistic blue-eyed grandson, who Sofie is banned from talking to, fit into the family story? Will Gia have some spicy revenge?
A piece of our neglected history is brought deliciously to life by Zoe Boccabella, recipes included!
Thanks to The Book Stack for an advanced reading copy.
May 19, 2023
*
*
**4.5 stars**
The Proxy Bride by Zoë Boccabella. (2022).
1984. When 16-year-old Sofie comes to stay with her Nonna Gia in Stanthorpe, Queensland, she knows little of Gia's past. The two clash over Gia's strict Italian ways and superstitions, her love of chilli, and the silence around Sofie's father who died before she was born. As Gia secretly gets Sofie used to chilli, she begins to share her stories - how she was a proxy bride, and the animosity towards Italians in Australia when World War II occurs. Gia and her friends were forced to keep their farms going when their Italian husbands were interned. They are helped by Gia's reclusive neighbour Edie but the venture is made near-impossible by the hatred towards them by the local pub owner as well as an illicit love affair between Gia and an Australian, Keith.
This is the first fiction book that I've read which is from the perspective of Italians in Australia, WWII era, as well as being the first novel I've read that covers the context and history of 'proxy brides'. I was quite intrigued by this book and found it very interesting. The narrative alternates between two timelines; Gia as a young woman coming to Australia, and Gia as a Nonna to Sofie. As per a normal 16-year-old attitude, Sofie is not keen to be at her grandmother's home in a small town - until Gia begins to gradually reveal her history. I found Gia's story was a real eye-opener to the treatment of Italian wives in Australia during WWII and the hardships they faced. I felt for young Sofie who understandably had a lot of frustration about not knowing who her father is. I loved the inclusion of the recipes at the end of the novel, that was a lovely touch. I strongly encourage readers to take notice of the notes at the end, it was very informative and provided context for the storyline.
Overall: highly recommend this well-written novel, particularly if you enjoy Australian historical fiction. This is one of my top 2023 reads for sure.
*
**4.5 stars**
The Proxy Bride by Zoë Boccabella. (2022).
1984. When 16-year-old Sofie comes to stay with her Nonna Gia in Stanthorpe, Queensland, she knows little of Gia's past. The two clash over Gia's strict Italian ways and superstitions, her love of chilli, and the silence around Sofie's father who died before she was born. As Gia secretly gets Sofie used to chilli, she begins to share her stories - how she was a proxy bride, and the animosity towards Italians in Australia when World War II occurs. Gia and her friends were forced to keep their farms going when their Italian husbands were interned. They are helped by Gia's reclusive neighbour Edie but the venture is made near-impossible by the hatred towards them by the local pub owner as well as an illicit love affair between Gia and an Australian, Keith.
This is the first fiction book that I've read which is from the perspective of Italians in Australia, WWII era, as well as being the first novel I've read that covers the context and history of 'proxy brides'. I was quite intrigued by this book and found it very interesting. The narrative alternates between two timelines; Gia as a young woman coming to Australia, and Gia as a Nonna to Sofie. As per a normal 16-year-old attitude, Sofie is not keen to be at her grandmother's home in a small town - until Gia begins to gradually reveal her history. I found Gia's story was a real eye-opener to the treatment of Italian wives in Australia during WWII and the hardships they faced. I felt for young Sofie who understandably had a lot of frustration about not knowing who her father is. I loved the inclusion of the recipes at the end of the novel, that was a lovely touch. I strongly encourage readers to take notice of the notes at the end, it was very informative and provided context for the storyline.
Overall: highly recommend this well-written novel, particularly if you enjoy Australian historical fiction. This is one of my top 2023 reads for sure.
February 13, 2023
The Proxy Bride is a dual timeline historical fiction by Zoë Boccabella, an Australian author of Italian descent. The two parts of the story begin in 1939 and 1984. Sixteen-year-old Sofie is sent to spend the summer with her Nonna Gia in Stanthorpe. Although Sofie is unimpressed with this decision and has some sulky moments, she also has a deep affection for her grandmother, and gradually becomes intrigued by her stories, secrets that have lain buried for generations.
Gia tells her of her proxy marriage. While living in Palmi, Calabria, she was married off by her family to Taddeo Poletti, an Italian immigrant in Australia. She and a friend Serena are sent on the “bride ship� full of Italian girls emigrating to meet their arranged-marriage husbands. Gia’s story is about the difficulty of adjusting to such an arrangement, of the racism towards the Italian immigrants, and then the internment of Italian men during the war as enemy aliens, despite the fact many had lived in Australia for years and some were even born in Australia. Gia and her small circle of Italian women band together to continue farming the orchards, joined by the reclusive artist Edie and two women from the Australian Women’s Land Army. Gia is torn between loyalty to an absent husband she did not choose and a developing love for an Australian man.
As Sofie listens to Nona’s story she seeks to puzzle out her own mystery. Why does her family never speak of her own father? Why does she not even know his name?
This was an engaging read and the audio narration was excellent. The story is based on elements from the author’s grandparents� lives as immigrants and brings into sharp relief the harsh attitudes and awful way Italians were treated, and how difficult it was for them to assimilate into this new country. I enjoyed this story.
Gia tells her of her proxy marriage. While living in Palmi, Calabria, she was married off by her family to Taddeo Poletti, an Italian immigrant in Australia. She and a friend Serena are sent on the “bride ship� full of Italian girls emigrating to meet their arranged-marriage husbands. Gia’s story is about the difficulty of adjusting to such an arrangement, of the racism towards the Italian immigrants, and then the internment of Italian men during the war as enemy aliens, despite the fact many had lived in Australia for years and some were even born in Australia. Gia and her small circle of Italian women band together to continue farming the orchards, joined by the reclusive artist Edie and two women from the Australian Women’s Land Army. Gia is torn between loyalty to an absent husband she did not choose and a developing love for an Australian man.
As Sofie listens to Nona’s story she seeks to puzzle out her own mystery. Why does her family never speak of her own father? Why does she not even know his name?
This was an engaging read and the audio narration was excellent. The story is based on elements from the author’s grandparents� lives as immigrants and brings into sharp relief the harsh attitudes and awful way Italians were treated, and how difficult it was for them to assimilate into this new country. I enjoyed this story.
December 5, 2022
*
Brisbane based writer Zoë Boccabella draws on her migrant ancestry in her latest release, The Proxy Bride. A tale that fuses together themes of duty, family, expectation, travel, settlement, community, resilience, relationships and food, The Proxy Bride is an enlightening story that I highly recommend.
Zoë Boccabella’s new release brings together a grandmother and her granddaughter in a tale that explores the bonds of ancestry. Nonna Gia has not revealed much at all to her daughter or granddaughter about her past, as it was such a tough time. As Gia and her granddaughter butt heads over food, expectation and cultural practices, a secret from the past hangs over their heads. Cooking brings a grandmother and her grandchild together in harmony as slowly Gia reveals details about her personal history, helping both these women come to a sense of peace regarding the past. Gia explains the unique circumstances of her arrival in Australia, her marriage to Sofie’s grandfather, the impact of the Second World War, the internment period of foreign men in Australia, the rise of the women’s land army and the forbidden relationship that occured between Gia and a local. When a long-held truth is eventually released, it will have a deep impact on young Sofie in the present. What is this burning family secret?
It’s nearly the end of the reading year, yet it makes my heart smile when I meet a brand-new author. Zoë Boccabella is a fresh addition to my reading load and I’m so glad that I made some time in my reading schedule to enjoy her latest novel. The Proxy Bride is the kind of fiction I love. This story is highly educative, emotional and deeply involving. I found much to appreciate in this new title from the acclaimed author of Mezza Italiana.
Opening in the year 1939 in Calabria, The Proxy Bride immerses the reader in a young woman named Gia’s world, which is completely turned on its head when the story begins. We learn that Gia is just one of many young women who during the pre-WWII years who were sent to Australia as proxy brides. These women did not know their betrothed, with many simply viewing a snap of their husband before they were sent on a ship on route to Australia. I could not imagine committing to this kind of life, but it was commonplace during the period in which The Proxy Bride is set. Boccabella captures the anxiety, fear, emotions and the weight of expectation faced by brides such as Gia. Boccabella also vividly brings to life the lives of the men waiting on the other side to nervously greet their new brides. The fear of rejection, the weight of protection and hope these men also experienced was huge. I appreciated the focus on family, relationships, sacrifice, duty and morals in Boccabella’s set piece.
The other half of this book is told from Gia’s teenage granddaughter’s perspective and I must admit that this section of the novel drew me in. As a child born in the early 1980s, I loved the trip back to 1984. The Proxy Bride features some the nostalgic and common references to various aspects of life during this time, which was outlined very well by Boccabella. What also struck me about this narrative was the heavy weight of family secrets, shame and locked truths placed on the characters. I loved how traditional Italian dishes that formed an integral part of Gia’s identity and heritage played such an important role in the unveiling process. I could feel Sofie’s frustration and urgency in her often futile attempts at getting to the bottom of the secrets haunting her family. I could also sympathise with Gia’s need to protect her past life at all costs, to save her family’s reputation.
Boccabella incorporates some very pertinent threads of history in The Proxy Bride, which is also housed in a highly engaging double narrative format. With a sharp focus on migration, arranged marriages, the impact of the war, fascism, internment, prejudice, women’s land army efforts, abandonment, sacrifice, resilience, forbidden love, loss, single parenthood and family heritage, there is so much to learn from The Proxy Bride . Encircling this story is a rich fable highlighting the power of food in nourishing our lives, providing a sense of vitality, building relationships, guiding love, supporting our wellbeing, issuing comfort levels and uniting us during the tough times. With tradition, culture, superstition, identity and community paving the way in this novel’s moving journey, Zoë Boccabella has composed a pensive read.
Saunter into the past in the company of a strong woman and her family, who offer a glimpse into an aspect of our past that has been largely overlooked. Salient, meaningful and edifying, The Proxy Bride is an illuminating title that I endorse to all readers. Don’t forget to check out the set of mouth-watering authentic recipes from the author included in the back of the book � I just wish I had my very own Nonna to whip them up for me!
*I wish to thank Harlequin Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
Brisbane based writer Zoë Boccabella draws on her migrant ancestry in her latest release, The Proxy Bride. A tale that fuses together themes of duty, family, expectation, travel, settlement, community, resilience, relationships and food, The Proxy Bride is an enlightening story that I highly recommend.
Zoë Boccabella’s new release brings together a grandmother and her granddaughter in a tale that explores the bonds of ancestry. Nonna Gia has not revealed much at all to her daughter or granddaughter about her past, as it was such a tough time. As Gia and her granddaughter butt heads over food, expectation and cultural practices, a secret from the past hangs over their heads. Cooking brings a grandmother and her grandchild together in harmony as slowly Gia reveals details about her personal history, helping both these women come to a sense of peace regarding the past. Gia explains the unique circumstances of her arrival in Australia, her marriage to Sofie’s grandfather, the impact of the Second World War, the internment period of foreign men in Australia, the rise of the women’s land army and the forbidden relationship that occured between Gia and a local. When a long-held truth is eventually released, it will have a deep impact on young Sofie in the present. What is this burning family secret?
It’s nearly the end of the reading year, yet it makes my heart smile when I meet a brand-new author. Zoë Boccabella is a fresh addition to my reading load and I’m so glad that I made some time in my reading schedule to enjoy her latest novel. The Proxy Bride is the kind of fiction I love. This story is highly educative, emotional and deeply involving. I found much to appreciate in this new title from the acclaimed author of Mezza Italiana.
Opening in the year 1939 in Calabria, The Proxy Bride immerses the reader in a young woman named Gia’s world, which is completely turned on its head when the story begins. We learn that Gia is just one of many young women who during the pre-WWII years who were sent to Australia as proxy brides. These women did not know their betrothed, with many simply viewing a snap of their husband before they were sent on a ship on route to Australia. I could not imagine committing to this kind of life, but it was commonplace during the period in which The Proxy Bride is set. Boccabella captures the anxiety, fear, emotions and the weight of expectation faced by brides such as Gia. Boccabella also vividly brings to life the lives of the men waiting on the other side to nervously greet their new brides. The fear of rejection, the weight of protection and hope these men also experienced was huge. I appreciated the focus on family, relationships, sacrifice, duty and morals in Boccabella’s set piece.
The other half of this book is told from Gia’s teenage granddaughter’s perspective and I must admit that this section of the novel drew me in. As a child born in the early 1980s, I loved the trip back to 1984. The Proxy Bride features some the nostalgic and common references to various aspects of life during this time, which was outlined very well by Boccabella. What also struck me about this narrative was the heavy weight of family secrets, shame and locked truths placed on the characters. I loved how traditional Italian dishes that formed an integral part of Gia’s identity and heritage played such an important role in the unveiling process. I could feel Sofie’s frustration and urgency in her often futile attempts at getting to the bottom of the secrets haunting her family. I could also sympathise with Gia’s need to protect her past life at all costs, to save her family’s reputation.
Boccabella incorporates some very pertinent threads of history in The Proxy Bride, which is also housed in a highly engaging double narrative format. With a sharp focus on migration, arranged marriages, the impact of the war, fascism, internment, prejudice, women’s land army efforts, abandonment, sacrifice, resilience, forbidden love, loss, single parenthood and family heritage, there is so much to learn from The Proxy Bride . Encircling this story is a rich fable highlighting the power of food in nourishing our lives, providing a sense of vitality, building relationships, guiding love, supporting our wellbeing, issuing comfort levels and uniting us during the tough times. With tradition, culture, superstition, identity and community paving the way in this novel’s moving journey, Zoë Boccabella has composed a pensive read.
Saunter into the past in the company of a strong woman and her family, who offer a glimpse into an aspect of our past that has been largely overlooked. Salient, meaningful and edifying, The Proxy Bride is an illuminating title that I endorse to all readers. Don’t forget to check out the set of mouth-watering authentic recipes from the author included in the back of the book � I just wish I had my very own Nonna to whip them up for me!
*I wish to thank Harlequin Australia for providing me with a free copy of this book for review purposes.
July 7, 2022
What a wonderful book. The story of an arranged marriage, a move to a different country and making a life with what you have.
Gia has done all this and now she not only cooks for her grand-daughter Sophie she starts to share her story and her life. This is the story of a strong and brave woman but also of the secrets she keeps. It is also the story of Sophie, her life without a father and why no one will talk to her about it. She wants to know who her father is?!
I loved the characters especially the two main ones Gia and Sophie. They are so real, you feel for them and their plights, you are drawn in to their stories and you just want it all to turn out like it should. The hardships and turmoil of Gia and her life leaving her family to move from Italy to Australia. The differences she had to endure and the life she had to make for herself. She is a strong and courageous woman.
A book I highly recommend.
Gia has done all this and now she not only cooks for her grand-daughter Sophie she starts to share her story and her life. This is the story of a strong and brave woman but also of the secrets she keeps. It is also the story of Sophie, her life without a father and why no one will talk to her about it. She wants to know who her father is?!
I loved the characters especially the two main ones Gia and Sophie. They are so real, you feel for them and their plights, you are drawn in to their stories and you just want it all to turn out like it should. The hardships and turmoil of Gia and her life leaving her family to move from Italy to Australia. The differences she had to endure and the life she had to make for herself. She is a strong and courageous woman.
A book I highly recommend.
October 14, 2022
Well I certainly learnt alot of history about the Australian Migrant Women, their upbringing, the cooking process passed down from generation to generations. These women who partook on a journey that their families organised as Proxy brides to Australia to start a new life with a Italian husband they have never met.
Gia is one of these women who leaves her family in Palmi, Calabria, Italy as a proxy bride to meet her groom in Stanthorpe, Australia. Her only gift from her mother Chilli seeds in her pocket and what to expect on her first night with her husband.
This book takes you through the racism, hardships, women friendships, family secrets and falling in love.
I loved reading this book 📖 ❤️, highly recommended.
Gia is one of these women who leaves her family in Palmi, Calabria, Italy as a proxy bride to meet her groom in Stanthorpe, Australia. Her only gift from her mother Chilli seeds in her pocket and what to expect on her first night with her husband.
This book takes you through the racism, hardships, women friendships, family secrets and falling in love.
I loved reading this book 📖 ❤️, highly recommended.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 15, 2023
This is the third of Zoe Boccabella's books that I have read, and the one that I enjoyed the most. Her other two are non-fiction/memoir, whereas 'The Proxy Bride' is WWII historical fiction, interwoven with a nostalgic trip back to 1984 with Sofie's story.
It is a must-read tale about the harsh realities faced by pre-war Italian migrants, both men and women. While Boccabella's focus is on the experiences of women who put their faith in a letter and a photo, I would imagine that, for a man, making a life-long commitment to support a stranger would have been equally daunting.
The novel is well-written and evocative of both eras. However, it is the WWII timeline that is of more interest to me. Gia's story shows the fear, violence, racism, and hardships that were endured by migrants at that time. Italian men in their thousands were arrested and interned, leaving the women to fend for themselves. The women in this story found ways to manage and survived, however secrecy and shame were their constant companions.
In summary, 'The Proxy Bride' is a fascinating read which reveals much about Australia and Australians at war. It is also a novel that makes you think. What would happen if history were to repeat? Would we treat migrants from enemy countries any differently? What lessons have we learnt from the past?
It is a must-read tale about the harsh realities faced by pre-war Italian migrants, both men and women. While Boccabella's focus is on the experiences of women who put their faith in a letter and a photo, I would imagine that, for a man, making a life-long commitment to support a stranger would have been equally daunting.
The novel is well-written and evocative of both eras. However, it is the WWII timeline that is of more interest to me. Gia's story shows the fear, violence, racism, and hardships that were endured by migrants at that time. Italian men in their thousands were arrested and interned, leaving the women to fend for themselves. The women in this story found ways to manage and survived, however secrecy and shame were their constant companions.
In summary, 'The Proxy Bride' is a fascinating read which reveals much about Australia and Australians at war. It is also a novel that makes you think. What would happen if history were to repeat? Would we treat migrants from enemy countries any differently? What lessons have we learnt from the past?
May 22, 2023
I'm a little torn by this book, but I enjoyed it well enough. The story picked up quickly, but really, there was nothing surprising here, in terms of plot points. The two timelines drew parallels between themselves, which meant that the second time that situation came up, it was fairly obvious. I wasn't aware of some of the historical issues that were raised by this book, so I'm glad it increases awareness. The climax was late, but also completely obvious and also completely devoid of conflict. The resolution made me smile, but it was also very abrupt.
July 20, 2022
Being raised in a southern Italian home, I was really keen to read this book and it didn’t let me down..
Nonna was so wonderfully Italian but learnt to be an Aussie along the way.
I learnt about their experience during WWII in a foreign country which wasn’t an easy time but their resilience got them through
It’s a great read for anyone, you dont need to have an italian background to enjoy this novel.
Nonna was so wonderfully Italian but learnt to be an Aussie along the way.
I learnt about their experience during WWII in a foreign country which wasn’t an easy time but their resilience got them through
It’s a great read for anyone, you dont need to have an italian background to enjoy this novel.
October 9, 2022
This was quite an education. I have never heard the term Proxy Bride before. I was born in the 60s and went to school with many Italian and Greek children and spent a great deal of my childhood with their families and also had no idea about the internments during the war! A great book with marvellous recipes to drool over.
January 24, 2023
Really loved this book. Such a great storyline it had me wanting to find out the ending. Great narrator's as well
March 26, 2023
I enjoyed most of this book but found it was just too long in parts, it became a little repetitive. I feel it needed tighter editing.
It was an interesting insight into the lives of migrant women and the hardships they faced, the terrible prejudice they were subjected to and the unfair internment of so many men during the war.
I found the afterword section most interesting, a section not to be missed.
It was an interesting insight into the lives of migrant women and the hardships they faced, the terrible prejudice they were subjected to and the unfair internment of so many men during the war.
I found the afterword section most interesting, a section not to be missed.
October 31, 2022
When Sofie comes to stay with her grandmother in Stanthorpe,she knows little of Nonna Gia's past.In 1984,the two clash over Gia's traditionalism and the evasive silence surrounding Sofie's deceased father's identity.
As Nonna Gia cooks, furtively adding a little more chilli each time, she also begins feeding Sofie her stories.How she came to Australia on a 'bride ship', among many proxy brides, knowing little about the husbands they had married from afar. Most arriving to find someone much different than described.
Then, as WWII comes to Australia,and in the face of the growing animosity towards Italians that sees their husbands interned,Gia and her friends are left alone. Impoverished. Desperate.To keep their farms going, their only hope is banding together, along with Edie,a reclusive artist on the neighbouring farm and 2 Women's Land Army workers.But the venture is made near-impossible by the hatred towards the women held by the local publican and an illicit love between Gia and an Australian, Keith.
A cornicello meaning little horn, is an Italian amulet worn to protect against the evil eye and, historically, to promote fertility and virility.Stanthorpe is a rural town and locality in the Southern Downs Region, QLD.Post WWI,Stanthorpe was a major resettlement area for soldiers,who leased land around Stanthorpe named after WWI battlefields.
Marriage by proxy was common among the Italian community in Australia,where successive government immigration policies to recruit single men for agricultural and manufacturing work had resulted in a gender imbalance.Thus for young Italian men looking for a partner with shared cultural and family values,a proxy marriage in their homeland provided the solution.The wedding ceremony would be performed in the bridal village,with the groom represented by a proxy,usually a brother or brother-in-law.The marriage was registered in Italy and a second celebration was often held after the bride migrated to Australia.For many young Italian women,proxy marriage and migration offered opportunity,adventure and an escape from extreme poverty.They were confronted by vast cultural and linguistic barriers,but they settled in.
As Nonna Gia cooks, furtively adding a little more chilli each time, she also begins feeding Sofie her stories.How she came to Australia on a 'bride ship', among many proxy brides, knowing little about the husbands they had married from afar. Most arriving to find someone much different than described.
Then, as WWII comes to Australia,and in the face of the growing animosity towards Italians that sees their husbands interned,Gia and her friends are left alone. Impoverished. Desperate.To keep their farms going, their only hope is banding together, along with Edie,a reclusive artist on the neighbouring farm and 2 Women's Land Army workers.But the venture is made near-impossible by the hatred towards the women held by the local publican and an illicit love between Gia and an Australian, Keith.
A cornicello meaning little horn, is an Italian amulet worn to protect against the evil eye and, historically, to promote fertility and virility.Stanthorpe is a rural town and locality in the Southern Downs Region, QLD.Post WWI,Stanthorpe was a major resettlement area for soldiers,who leased land around Stanthorpe named after WWI battlefields.
Marriage by proxy was common among the Italian community in Australia,where successive government immigration policies to recruit single men for agricultural and manufacturing work had resulted in a gender imbalance.Thus for young Italian men looking for a partner with shared cultural and family values,a proxy marriage in their homeland provided the solution.The wedding ceremony would be performed in the bridal village,with the groom represented by a proxy,usually a brother or brother-in-law.The marriage was registered in Italy and a second celebration was often held after the bride migrated to Australia.For many young Italian women,proxy marriage and migration offered opportunity,adventure and an escape from extreme poverty.They were confronted by vast cultural and linguistic barriers,but they settled in.
August 30, 2022
Set mostly in Stanthorpe, Queensland, The Proxy Bride shines a light on a fascinating but often disturbing aspect of Australia’s rich migrant history that I was unaware of. This dual timeline story takes place partly in 1939 and partly in 1984 with the earlier story told through the eyes of Gia, a proxy bride from Palmi, on Italy’s Calabrian coast, and the later story told by her 16 year-old granddaughter Sofia. This is an intensely emotional read. There are strong cultural threads throughout including fascinating traditions and mouth-watering recipes.
Gia is an incredibly strong character and despite Sofia having a tale to tell as well, Gia is definitely the heroine. While she finds her new husband Taddeo to be a nice man, there is no love between them. I felt sorry for them both that they were denied the opportunity to marry for love, although they were able to reach a level of contentment. I felt for Gia, denied the opportunity to be with her neighbor Keith, whom she loved from the moment they met. I admired her strength of will and the way she and neighbouring women managed to keep going through the war. The level of animosity and prejudice they faced horrified me.
Sofia made me smile. She is the quintessential teenager part of the time, sneaking off to meet heartthrob Tim, who is several years older than her, and a blossoming young woman at others as she prompts Gia to talk about her life. It was interesting to see that even in 1984, prejudice and racism was alive and well, with Australia’s Mediterranean immigrants being lumped together under the unflattering moniker “wog�. Interesting too was the fact that even then, cross cultural relationships were frowned upon.
This story is incredibly complex. It is elegantly written, filled with beautiful imagery, some intensely happy moments as well as sad ones. All this and at the end there is a treasure trove of interesting author notes and Nona Gia’s mouthwatering recipes. I am in reader heaven!
Gia is an incredibly strong character and despite Sofia having a tale to tell as well, Gia is definitely the heroine. While she finds her new husband Taddeo to be a nice man, there is no love between them. I felt sorry for them both that they were denied the opportunity to marry for love, although they were able to reach a level of contentment. I felt for Gia, denied the opportunity to be with her neighbor Keith, whom she loved from the moment they met. I admired her strength of will and the way she and neighbouring women managed to keep going through the war. The level of animosity and prejudice they faced horrified me.
Sofia made me smile. She is the quintessential teenager part of the time, sneaking off to meet heartthrob Tim, who is several years older than her, and a blossoming young woman at others as she prompts Gia to talk about her life. It was interesting to see that even in 1984, prejudice and racism was alive and well, with Australia’s Mediterranean immigrants being lumped together under the unflattering moniker “wog�. Interesting too was the fact that even then, cross cultural relationships were frowned upon.
This story is incredibly complex. It is elegantly written, filled with beautiful imagery, some intensely happy moments as well as sad ones. All this and at the end there is a treasure trove of interesting author notes and Nona Gia’s mouthwatering recipes. I am in reader heaven!
October 13, 2022
In 1939, Gia leaves her family and her home in Palmi, Calabria, Italy as a proxy bride and joins her husband Taddeo in Australia. She, and so many other proxy brides, do not know if they will ever see their families again. Life in Australia is difficult for so many of these brides and particularly the dislike, hatred even, of Italians in general due to the War.
In Australia in 1984, Sofia the 16 year-old granddaughter of Gia and daughter of single mother Eleni, travels from Brisbane to Stanthorpe to spend the school and Christmas holidays with her grandmother. Due to not knowing anything about her own father, Sofia tries to discover just who she is. Something in her grandmother's home prompts Sofia to ask her grandmother 'why is this' and to give her an answer, Gia tells her the story of her life from when she left Italy in 1939.
This is a fabulous story from Zoe Boccabella and the subject of proxy brides is something I had heard of but knew nothing about.
Here we have once again a very different story from WWII. The courage and strength of the women who band together to keep their farms surviving after their husbands have been interned, is particularly evident in the brutal treatment by the Australians in the area and lead by the local publican.
I became so emotionally involved in Zoe's story that I couldn't put it down. While reading, I could not help but think of what our lives here in Australia would be without the cultures, food, traditions that people from other nations have brought to us. And I feel ashamed that even now, migrants who come to our country seeking a life of peace, are sadly still being interned.
Thank you Zoe Boccabella, this is a wonderful and unforgettable story. And in the words of Gia, 'we need to get on for the sake of next generations but I don't think we should forget'.
I highly recommend this story to other readers, you will love it!
In Australia in 1984, Sofia the 16 year-old granddaughter of Gia and daughter of single mother Eleni, travels from Brisbane to Stanthorpe to spend the school and Christmas holidays with her grandmother. Due to not knowing anything about her own father, Sofia tries to discover just who she is. Something in her grandmother's home prompts Sofia to ask her grandmother 'why is this' and to give her an answer, Gia tells her the story of her life from when she left Italy in 1939.
This is a fabulous story from Zoe Boccabella and the subject of proxy brides is something I had heard of but knew nothing about.
Here we have once again a very different story from WWII. The courage and strength of the women who band together to keep their farms surviving after their husbands have been interned, is particularly evident in the brutal treatment by the Australians in the area and lead by the local publican.
I became so emotionally involved in Zoe's story that I couldn't put it down. While reading, I could not help but think of what our lives here in Australia would be without the cultures, food, traditions that people from other nations have brought to us. And I feel ashamed that even now, migrants who come to our country seeking a life of peace, are sadly still being interned.
Thank you Zoe Boccabella, this is a wonderful and unforgettable story. And in the words of Gia, 'we need to get on for the sake of next generations but I don't think we should forget'.
I highly recommend this story to other readers, you will love it!
February 19, 2024
Wow, I loved this. Beautifully written, this novel tells a tale of love and war and hardship and forgiveness - of change and adaptation. It shows how war in all its intricacies affects a people, and how those things still trickle down through generations.
This book tells the dual story of Gia when she is a young woman, newly married by proxy, travelling to Australia for the first time, and the story of her teenage granddaughter Sofie, who is having her own coming of age and discovering her own truths.
The portions of the story with Sofie are much less gripping and her character altogether is very teenager and comes off a little annoying. But for the story to feel truly complete - to truly show the depths of change and growth we as people can make in our hearts - they were needed portions of the story. It was good insight on how the actions and events in one generation have a trickling effect through time.
The story of Gia was insightful. A proxy bride from Italy, one of thousands, not truly knowing her husband before arriving in Australia. The challenges of poverty and racism, especially at the beginning of WWII and as the war continued. Learning about interment camps and the women's strength in upkeeping the farms as their husbands were taken - though most knew little to nothing of how to do it. Human kind's ability to adapt and grow and change. The beauty of friendship and endurance and courage. A story of deep whole-soul love. Of craving to grow old together. Heartbreak and rage and sorrow. This book had it all for me.
This book tells the dual story of Gia when she is a young woman, newly married by proxy, travelling to Australia for the first time, and the story of her teenage granddaughter Sofie, who is having her own coming of age and discovering her own truths.
The portions of the story with Sofie are much less gripping and her character altogether is very teenager and comes off a little annoying. But for the story to feel truly complete - to truly show the depths of change and growth we as people can make in our hearts - they were needed portions of the story. It was good insight on how the actions and events in one generation have a trickling effect through time.
The story of Gia was insightful. A proxy bride from Italy, one of thousands, not truly knowing her husband before arriving in Australia. The challenges of poverty and racism, especially at the beginning of WWII and as the war continued. Learning about interment camps and the women's strength in upkeeping the farms as their husbands were taken - though most knew little to nothing of how to do it. Human kind's ability to adapt and grow and change. The beauty of friendship and endurance and courage. A story of deep whole-soul love. Of craving to grow old together. Heartbreak and rage and sorrow. This book had it all for me.
October 7, 2022
This novel gave me insights to migrant women who came to Australia as proxy brides when they married men who were already in Australia.
It was such an eye opener to read that it was Gia’s brother, Salvatore who stood in as her proxy husband while the ceremony was performed in Italy before she travelled to Stanthorpe in QLD.
Thousands of young Italian women came to Australia as proxy brides during the twentieth century. Usually the unions were arranged by the man or her parents or relative and most women were agreeable.
It was insightful to look into the fictional lives of Gia and her friends and I could tell the author understood the Italian culture so aptly especially as she too is of migrant ancestry.
So many emotions were stirred up in me reading this book. The prejudice, the racism, the sexism that these women faced was incredibly difficult yet they were so resilient and so full of passion and drive to make a new life for themselves regardless of their challenges.
The romance/love part of this story was another emotionally wrenching part to read as the author did so well in portraying the absolute wrestle that Gia goes through with her commitment to her husband Taddeo and Keith, the Australia man she meets upon arrival.
It was such an eye opener to read that it was Gia’s brother, Salvatore who stood in as her proxy husband while the ceremony was performed in Italy before she travelled to Stanthorpe in QLD.
Thousands of young Italian women came to Australia as proxy brides during the twentieth century. Usually the unions were arranged by the man or her parents or relative and most women were agreeable.
It was insightful to look into the fictional lives of Gia and her friends and I could tell the author understood the Italian culture so aptly especially as she too is of migrant ancestry.
So many emotions were stirred up in me reading this book. The prejudice, the racism, the sexism that these women faced was incredibly difficult yet they were so resilient and so full of passion and drive to make a new life for themselves regardless of their challenges.
The romance/love part of this story was another emotionally wrenching part to read as the author did so well in portraying the absolute wrestle that Gia goes through with her commitment to her husband Taddeo and Keith, the Australia man she meets upon arrival.
January 23, 2023
Well, when my Sister in law and Mother both read this in a few days I knew that it was going to be a good one. The Proxy Bride follows the story of Gia, as she is married off in Italy to a husband she has never met (in Australia). So on the boat she goes to� Stanthorpe. This story is about resilience, the hardship that these women faced and the people they loved.
There are two parts to this story though, Gia as a young woman and Gia as Nonna Gia to Sofia and Mother to Elena. I really did love this story, Boccabella develops Gia very well, I feel encapsulated by the Italian culture in Australia and want to start a chili garden asap. The work the Italians did on the farms back then is unbelievable. I can’t pick out a prickle, let alone crops of peaches for hours on end. I also enjoyed Sofia’s character. Bold and sassy, however as the story progressed she became more and more aware of the hardships of her Nonna. They did it tough. Not just in this story, everyone. My Grandma raised 7 children on her own. Can’t. I have one child and its ‘draining�.
Also, another huge win, is there are so many amazing recipes and SPOILER, they are given to you at the end of the book. So go forth read and cook some delightful meals.
There are two parts to this story though, Gia as a young woman and Gia as Nonna Gia to Sofia and Mother to Elena. I really did love this story, Boccabella develops Gia very well, I feel encapsulated by the Italian culture in Australia and want to start a chili garden asap. The work the Italians did on the farms back then is unbelievable. I can’t pick out a prickle, let alone crops of peaches for hours on end. I also enjoyed Sofia’s character. Bold and sassy, however as the story progressed she became more and more aware of the hardships of her Nonna. They did it tough. Not just in this story, everyone. My Grandma raised 7 children on her own. Can’t. I have one child and its ‘draining�.
Also, another huge win, is there are so many amazing recipes and SPOILER, they are given to you at the end of the book. So go forth read and cook some delightful meals.
September 29, 2022
This was one of those books that felt like it took a bit to get going but once it did, I was hooked.
Chapter one was intriguing and eye opening. I never knew there were European (in this case, Italian) proxy brides sent out to Australia, married in their homeland to absentee husbands, which older family members had selected for them.
However, the story slowed a bit after this chapter until it finally got going again.
It was a fascinating and interesting story knowing a lot of it was based in fact and historical knowledge. Of particular interest to me was the side stories around WW2 and the depiction of life for the wives left after their Italian husbands were interred.
I suspect Zoe has served her previous family generations well in writing the Proxy Bride.
This was a story based on family stories and written well.
Again ŷ, we need a 4 1/2 star capability on here for reviewers. This book would definitely have warranted 4 1/2 stars.
Chapter one was intriguing and eye opening. I never knew there were European (in this case, Italian) proxy brides sent out to Australia, married in their homeland to absentee husbands, which older family members had selected for them.
However, the story slowed a bit after this chapter until it finally got going again.
It was a fascinating and interesting story knowing a lot of it was based in fact and historical knowledge. Of particular interest to me was the side stories around WW2 and the depiction of life for the wives left after their Italian husbands were interred.
I suspect Zoe has served her previous family generations well in writing the Proxy Bride.
This was a story based on family stories and written well.
Again ŷ, we need a 4 1/2 star capability on here for reviewers. This book would definitely have warranted 4 1/2 stars.
April 18, 2023
Oh wow, I just loved this book and could hardly tear myself away from it to do anything else!
I could totally picture the different settings as I have lived in Brisbane my whole life, love the Gold Coast and have visited Stanthorpe numerous times.
I had never heard of Proxy Brides before but had heard of Italian men being interned during the war. I learned that on the ABC show Back In Time For Dinner.
The characters are so well developed. I could identify with each one, but especially Gia. What an incredibly strong woman she was, enduring hardship after hardship, having to stay in a loveless marriage when she was in love with someone else and never being able to see her family again.
I love how we slowly see Gia's life unfold as she opens up to her granddaughter Sophia. What a beautiful relationship these two have.
This was the first of Zoe's books that I have read. I will certainly be looking out for more in future.
I could totally picture the different settings as I have lived in Brisbane my whole life, love the Gold Coast and have visited Stanthorpe numerous times.
I had never heard of Proxy Brides before but had heard of Italian men being interned during the war. I learned that on the ABC show Back In Time For Dinner.
The characters are so well developed. I could identify with each one, but especially Gia. What an incredibly strong woman she was, enduring hardship after hardship, having to stay in a loveless marriage when she was in love with someone else and never being able to see her family again.
I love how we slowly see Gia's life unfold as she opens up to her granddaughter Sophia. What a beautiful relationship these two have.
This was the first of Zoe's books that I have read. I will certainly be looking out for more in future.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 30, 2022
I enjoyed this book so much.
I really love dual timelines and this one was no exception. The book is split between two different times, the first one being Sofie in 1984. She’s sixteen, it’s the long Christmas holiday break but her mother is making her go and stay with her widowed grandmother, rather than allow her to stay at home whilst her mother is at work. Although Sofie loves her grandmother, she’s resentful of this, believing that she’s old enough to be left alone. Her grandmother is also quite strict, with rules about boys and going out and what Sofie can and cannot do. However, Sofie does find herself connecting with her grandmother on a deeper level, learning of her journey to Australia, the circumstances thereof and those early, hard years in a new country with an often hostile population during the Second World War.
Gia, Sofie’s grandmother, tells Sofie of key moments in her life and the book flashes back for the reader to get a firsthand look at her experience as a “proxy bride� and leaving her family to come halfway around the world to a man she doesn’t know who is now her husband, living on a pretty remote farm and facing discrimination and racism from members of the local community. Sofie and her other Italian friends, as well as a neighbour, band together as best they can when their men are interned during WWII (as were many Australians of Italian and German descent, probably Japanese too like in the US) as well as a love story, one that makes Sofie wonder even more about her unknown parentage and the father that died before she was born.
I’ve heard stories quite similar to this from my MIL, who came to Australia as a young woman after WWII, but with it still very fresh in people’s minds. She wasn’t a proxy bride but ended up in a small Victorian town living and working with her sister and sister’s husband, taking care of their children and helping in their milk bar. Like the Italians in this book, my MIL, her sister and brother-in-law tended to keep very much within their own ex-pat community, socialising with other Italians, marrying them, their children growing up together and often doing the same thing. These marriages were sometimes arranged between families and other times it happened organically. Like Gia in this book, my MIL is also a quite strict Italian Catholic who attends church multiple times a week. She’s also an excellent cook (her chicken schnitzel is second to none) and sticks very much to traditional foods from her homeland, dishes her family probably cooked and ate regularly. My FIL has passed on now but my husband is certain there was never a day in his adult life where he didn’t eat pasta at least once. They had an extensive vegetable garden, growing more than enough produce to feed themselves and enough Roma tomatoes to make and bottle at least 200 longneck beer bottles of passata sauce every year. They provided for not just themselves but various members of the extended family. My FIL also made incredible pizza in their wood fired indoor stove, the likes of which I’ve never tasted anywhere else.
So for me, even though I am not Italian, nor is my family recent to this country (we probably date back to the invaders, to be honest), I still felt very connected to this story because it was so rich with experiences I have had shared with me from my MIL and the food, although slightly different to what my MIL makes (she’s Sicilian) is similar enough that it also brings lots of memories of dinners and events at their house. I also spent a lot of time with my maternal grandmother growing up as well � Christmas holidays at her house before we moved to the same town and I went there very often after that. I actually connected with Sofie, because I remember being on that cusp of adulthood and wanting so much freedom but still not being quite there yet and having to do things that you feel you are far too old for, her chafing against her grandmother’s stricter rules and her impatience at her superstitions were also quite easily understood. I also felt very sorry for Sofie for not having the information on who her father was and how that had affected her. Although I sort of understood in the end, why her mother hadn’t told her, it still felt incredibly unfair to her not to have this information (not even his actual name) and to be ignored, cut off or redirected whenever she asked about it. And the secrecy led to something awkward for Sofie as well, which could’ve been much worse.
I enjoyed both timelines immensely. I love the rapport of the women in the past, how they banded together and worked hard to keep things afloat when the men were taken, how they supported each other and stuck together throughout incredibly tough times and how they faced disgusting behaviour with honestly, much more grace than I could imagine myself having in the same situation. It’s hard though, because they knew they held no power in their predicament and any complaint they might’ve made would be ignored, any retaliation a sign that they were fascists or whatever. It made me actually feel quite sick and angry reading how the women were treated (particularly by one man) and I’ve no doubt it’s an accurate portrayal of what some people experienced.
This was engrossing and kept me very invested throughout the twists and turns, both in the past and in the present. I loved the recipes in the back too, of the dishes that are cooked throughout the story, that was a really nice and touch and I’m sure many people would enjoy giving some of those a go!
***A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review***
I really love dual timelines and this one was no exception. The book is split between two different times, the first one being Sofie in 1984. She’s sixteen, it’s the long Christmas holiday break but her mother is making her go and stay with her widowed grandmother, rather than allow her to stay at home whilst her mother is at work. Although Sofie loves her grandmother, she’s resentful of this, believing that she’s old enough to be left alone. Her grandmother is also quite strict, with rules about boys and going out and what Sofie can and cannot do. However, Sofie does find herself connecting with her grandmother on a deeper level, learning of her journey to Australia, the circumstances thereof and those early, hard years in a new country with an often hostile population during the Second World War.
Gia, Sofie’s grandmother, tells Sofie of key moments in her life and the book flashes back for the reader to get a firsthand look at her experience as a “proxy bride� and leaving her family to come halfway around the world to a man she doesn’t know who is now her husband, living on a pretty remote farm and facing discrimination and racism from members of the local community. Sofie and her other Italian friends, as well as a neighbour, band together as best they can when their men are interned during WWII (as were many Australians of Italian and German descent, probably Japanese too like in the US) as well as a love story, one that makes Sofie wonder even more about her unknown parentage and the father that died before she was born.
I’ve heard stories quite similar to this from my MIL, who came to Australia as a young woman after WWII, but with it still very fresh in people’s minds. She wasn’t a proxy bride but ended up in a small Victorian town living and working with her sister and sister’s husband, taking care of their children and helping in their milk bar. Like the Italians in this book, my MIL, her sister and brother-in-law tended to keep very much within their own ex-pat community, socialising with other Italians, marrying them, their children growing up together and often doing the same thing. These marriages were sometimes arranged between families and other times it happened organically. Like Gia in this book, my MIL is also a quite strict Italian Catholic who attends church multiple times a week. She’s also an excellent cook (her chicken schnitzel is second to none) and sticks very much to traditional foods from her homeland, dishes her family probably cooked and ate regularly. My FIL has passed on now but my husband is certain there was never a day in his adult life where he didn’t eat pasta at least once. They had an extensive vegetable garden, growing more than enough produce to feed themselves and enough Roma tomatoes to make and bottle at least 200 longneck beer bottles of passata sauce every year. They provided for not just themselves but various members of the extended family. My FIL also made incredible pizza in their wood fired indoor stove, the likes of which I’ve never tasted anywhere else.
So for me, even though I am not Italian, nor is my family recent to this country (we probably date back to the invaders, to be honest), I still felt very connected to this story because it was so rich with experiences I have had shared with me from my MIL and the food, although slightly different to what my MIL makes (she’s Sicilian) is similar enough that it also brings lots of memories of dinners and events at their house. I also spent a lot of time with my maternal grandmother growing up as well � Christmas holidays at her house before we moved to the same town and I went there very often after that. I actually connected with Sofie, because I remember being on that cusp of adulthood and wanting so much freedom but still not being quite there yet and having to do things that you feel you are far too old for, her chafing against her grandmother’s stricter rules and her impatience at her superstitions were also quite easily understood. I also felt very sorry for Sofie for not having the information on who her father was and how that had affected her. Although I sort of understood in the end, why her mother hadn’t told her, it still felt incredibly unfair to her not to have this information (not even his actual name) and to be ignored, cut off or redirected whenever she asked about it. And the secrecy led to something awkward for Sofie as well, which could’ve been much worse.
I enjoyed both timelines immensely. I love the rapport of the women in the past, how they banded together and worked hard to keep things afloat when the men were taken, how they supported each other and stuck together throughout incredibly tough times and how they faced disgusting behaviour with honestly, much more grace than I could imagine myself having in the same situation. It’s hard though, because they knew they held no power in their predicament and any complaint they might’ve made would be ignored, any retaliation a sign that they were fascists or whatever. It made me actually feel quite sick and angry reading how the women were treated (particularly by one man) and I’ve no doubt it’s an accurate portrayal of what some people experienced.
This was engrossing and kept me very invested throughout the twists and turns, both in the past and in the present. I loved the recipes in the back too, of the dishes that are cooked throughout the story, that was a really nice and touch and I’m sure many people would enjoy giving some of those a go!
***A copy of this book was provided by the publisher for the purpose of an honest review***
October 7, 2022
This story set over 2 timelines gives another interesting take on the effects wars have on so many lives. Love the Stanthorpe setting, familiar area from my own childhood and so brought back some of my own memories. The plight of the interned Italians and the way people thought in this time is sensitively and honestly depicted. Loved all these strong independent women who paved the way for better equality that exists today. And of course the other star of the book, Italian food, would love to have sat at those dinners from Nonna!!!
September 21, 2022
I’ve just finished reading this ARC I was lucky enough to receive. I’d never heard of a Proxy Bride before, so it was a fascinating introduction to them. The book alternates between WWII and the 1980s. I love a good historical novel and this didn’t disappoint. I’d definitely recommend this book, especially if you enjoy reading stories of Australian history.
November 3, 2022
This sure was an interesting, intriguing and insightful read.
A beautiful story about proxy marriages in the Italian community in Australia during the 1930's, challenges & prejudice they all faced. Also the growing relationship between grandmother and granddaughter, as Sofia learns about Nonna's life, loves and tragedies.
It was filled with love, family and food.
A beautiful story about proxy marriages in the Italian community in Australia during the 1930's, challenges & prejudice they all faced. Also the growing relationship between grandmother and granddaughter, as Sofia learns about Nonna's life, loves and tragedies.
It was filled with love, family and food.
January 5, 2023
This book was so authentic, clearly the author talked to so many people to put together this story. The life for Italian immigrants wasn’t easy, especially around WW11. As Gia's story unfolds, we also have Sophie in the present day, who is growing up. This is a beautiful story about women, friendships, racism, love, fathers and culture.
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