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Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
She Was Here: The Marginalia of Rossana Averni by G. C. Marti is an exploration of the aftermath of a gifted teenager’s hospitalization following a suicide attempt. Set in Venice, the story unfolds over eight days, focusing on three of Rossana’s teachers as they grapple with the impact of her absence. Each chapter is a day in their lives, revealing their reflections, regrets, and realizations about their interactions with Rossana. Through their perspectives, readers piece together the enigmatic personality of Rossana, a brilliant, vibrant, yet deeply private student who left a lasting impression on those around her. The narrative is interwoven with glimpses of Rossana’s life, her thoughts, and her creative work, including her essays and marginalia, which offer profound insights into her inner world.
G. C. Marti’s writing is poetic and reflective. The prose is rich and layered, thoughtful and evocative, with short, impactful sentences that mirror the characters’ fragmented thoughts. This deliberate literary device effectively creates the mood and tempo of the story. The pacing is steady, allowing readers to pause and absorb the weight of each moment and the beauty of the Venetian setting. Marti’s ability to capture the quiet, introspective moments of grief and self-discovery is remarkable. The story will appeal to readers who enjoy character-driven fiction that focuses on emotion, reflection, and personal journeys. It will also suit those who enjoy literary settings and thoughtful narratives that unfold through quiet moments rather than fast action. She Was Here may especially appeal to readers of Anthony Doerr for its reflective quality.
