When We Chased the Light
1998, Beverly Hills, California: Setting the stage for the story to follow, Christie’s, the famed British auction house, issues a press release announcing the sale of legendary Hollywood star Vivian Snow’s personal belongings. The auction features a series of handwritten postcards sent to her by Antonio Trombello, a Catholic priest and former Italian POW. This collection, comprised of over six decades of correspondence, provides clues into Snow’s unusual relationship with Trombello, her lifelong advisor, friend, and possible lover.
1940s, USA and Europe: While working at Camp Atterbury as an Italian POW interpreter, Vivian (Santini) Snow develops a friendship with Father Antonio Trombello, one of the captives. To further her entertainment career and support her family, she successfully auditions for the USO and performs at military camps throughout the US and Europe. While on tour, Vivian meets and secretly marries Corporal Tom Highward, leaving behind her disabled father, institutionalized mother, and Aria, her fifteen-year-old sister. When Vivian’s husband inexplicably vanishes, unexpected, dramatic events unfold. Considered a suspect in his disappearance, and as she rises from showgirl to Hollywood stardom, she turns to Trombello, the only one who can provide the support and understanding she needs to face her guilt-ridden past and uncertain future.
Written in first person, Bleeker’s compelling, heart-wrenching sequel to When We Were Enemies masterfully portrays Vivian Snow’s complex personality. Her tumultuous life, often influenced by her Italian immigrant family background and Hollywood’s powerful studio structure, is vividly revealed through well-developed characters, tension-filled scenes, and engaging dialogue. The author’s incorporation of Trombello’s postcard entries from the prologue to the epilogue creates subtle intrigue, enhancing the mysterious bond between Snow and Trombello. This character-driven narrative offers in-depth character exploration, romance, and unique behind-the-scene perspectives into WWII, as well as the untold risks of celebrity life. A worthwhile read!
