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The novel is set against the backdrop of 1950s Italy, capturing the "La Dolce Vita" era. It tells the story of Serafina, a young woman living in a small village, whose life is transformed when she encounters the world-famous tenor Mario Lanza during his stay in Rome. The city itself acts as a vibrant character, symbolizing hope, glamour, and the bittersweet nature of change. 2. Key Themes

Serafina’s journey from a sheltered village girl to a woman navigating the complexities of Rome mirrors her internal growth and loss of innocence.

The book highlights the invisible labor of those who support "great men," showing the emotional toll of devotion to someone who belongs to the public.

Through the lens of Mario Lanza’s decline, Pellegrino explores how the spotlight can erode a person's health and happiness.