Stepping into a series partway through can sometimes feel like you’re catching up on a story already in motion—but this one still managed to pull me in with its emotional depth, rich setting, and powerful historical backdrop.
The Girl from Portofino by Siobhan Daiko
Series: Girls from the Italian Resistance #2
Genres: 20th Century Historical Romance, Military Romance

From award-winning author Siobhan Daiko, comes a hauntingly epic read that will sweep you away to the beauty of the Italian Riviera. A story of heart-wrenching loss, uplifting courage, and secrets untold.

When Gina Bianchi returns to the beautiful Italian resort of Portofino to attend her father’s funeral, she is beset by vivid memories of World War 2, when she joined the Resistance, alongside her identical twin sister, Adele.

In her childhood bedroom, Gina reads Adele’s diary, left behind during the war. As Gina learns the shocking truth about her sister, she’s compelled to face the harsh realities of her own past.

For readers of Rhys Bowen, Fiona Valpy, and Victoria Hislop.

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Other books from this Author Daughters of Tuscany

This is the second book I’ve read by this author and my first in this particular series. While it’s clear there’s history carried over from the first book, I was still able to follow the story and become invested in the characters, though I do think reading the series in order would provide even more emotional impact.

The story begins in 1970, when Gina returns to her hometown of Portofino after learning of her father’s death. Being back after twenty-five years stirs up a flood of memories from World War II—memories she’s long tried to leave behind. When her mother asks her to read her twin sister Adele’s diary, Gina is forced to confront the past and uncover truths she may not have been ready to face.

The dual timeline works beautifully, shifting between Gina’s present-day return and Adele’s experiences during the war. Adele and Gina, though identical twins, couldn’t be more different, yet their bond is undeniable. Adele’s story, in particular, is compelling as she navigates life under German occupation while secretly aiding the resistance. Her desire to do more for her country adds both tension and emotional weight to the narrative.

The setting is one of the book’s strongest elements. The descriptions of Portofino and the surrounding landscapes are vivid and immersive, making it easy to picture both the beauty of the region and the danger lurking beneath it during wartime. The contrast between the stunning scenery and the harsh realities of war is handled especially well.

The pacing is steady, with moments of heartbreak, tension, and reflection woven throughout. While I occasionally felt like I might have benefited from more background from the first book, it didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment—it simply made me more curious about the earlier installment.

Overall, this is an engaging and emotional historical read that combines family, resilience, and the impact of war in a meaningful way. A solid four-star read that has definitely encouraged me to go back and start the series from the beginning.

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