New York City, normally bustling with a mix of unforgiving locals and clueless tourists, is now a scene of blissful Saturday serenity. It’s August 2020, and although the dangers of COVID-19 still lurk the streets, the fear (and patience) has slightly subsided. New Yorkers are emerging from their closet-sized shelters or returning from their tropical South Florida retreats to experience everyone’s favorite form of weekend revelry, brunch.

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Anxiety aside, we don our newest face mask accessories and take sweet, sweet refuge from the blistering heat beneath the tented shade of newly-constructed, outdoor dining havens that line the now-empty streets. A stroll through the West Village and a week’s worth of giddy anticipation brought me to the one and only, Buvette. Copious reviews, social media stalking and a glowing #FourSquare rating made this place a no-brainer on the ever-growing list of must-try NYC Restaurants.

Upon arrival, I admired the restaurant’s location, nestled centrally on a quiet off-street near Bleecker and 7th, the outdoor dining scene was superb. Shaded by beautiful adjacent brick buildings and dotted with blooming trees & socially-distanced bistro tables, we were seated by a gracious host after only a 15 minute wait. Mind you it was 11 am Brunch on a Saturday in New York City! The service from there was spotty, but understandable given the climate of COVID.

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I ordered an ice coffee, a mimosa and my handsome date & I shared an almond croissant. The coffee was decent, the mimosa was tasty & cold, but the almond croissant (admittedly an impulsive order) was absolutely divine. The soft pillowy texture tore with ease between my fingers as a gooey, nutty filling spilled ever so slightly into each prospective bite finished with a subtle crunch of traditional, sliced almond topping.

Although I craved that same croissant for the following few days, the main event was the raved-about, Waffle Sandwich. A triangular sliced, fresh Belgium Waffle sandwiched together with a sunny-side egg, gruyere cheese and two crisp slices of bacon. This is what food-obsessed dreams are made of, trust me I would know. The combination of sweet waffle batter, saucy broken egg yolk, smoky bacon and sharp cheese is one that deserves a spotlight like, dare I say it, Chicken & Waffles. Sure it’s not as in-your-face, but I think it’s hearty, creative and flashy enough to become an instant Brunch Classic. Needless to say, this Brunch was a big success! Now on to the next one!

Spoiler-Free Summary

A remarkable story, this novel transports readers to a time of true despair and invites them to marvel at the strength of the human spirit and the passion of a people who refuse to give up hope. Based on a true story, this tale sheds light on Italy’s experience with World War II through the lens of one of history’s unsung heroes.

Pino Lella’s coming of age story is nothing short of tragic, as he navigates his way through the atrocities of war. His teenage innocence is slowly striped away as he witnesses a series of devastating scenes. When his home in Milan becomes a bombing ground, Pino plays a crucial role in aiding Jews escape over the Alps, into the neutral grounds of Switzerland. His faith is tested as he risks his life traversing dangerous mountainsides and guiding groups of terrified evacuees through both mental and physical obstacles that exist along the route to safety.

Upon his eighteenth birthday, Pino is forced by his parents to enlist in the German army, as a precaution for avoiding the dangers that await on the frontline. Brandished with a Nazi Swastika armband, Pino endures intense scrutiny and disgusted looks from even his closest peers. His experience takes a twist when he’s recruited as the personal driver for Adolf Hitler’s left-hand commander, General Hans Leyers.

Presented with the opportunity to join the resistance in secrecy, Pino goes undercover to report the General’s horrific actions to the Allies, meanwhile falling in love with the woman of his dreams, Anna. To his shock and dismay, Pino observes the inner-workings of the Nazi war machine in Italy, but his longing for a future with his beloved Anna are what strengthen his courage & hope in a brighter tomorrow.

Additional Thoughts

This story brings to light the hardships endured during one of history’s darkest hours. Italy was no exception to the atrocious behavior inflicted by the invading Nazi & Fascist armies. However, it’s the everyday heroism that truly speaks volumes. Pino Lella, his brother Mimo and Father Re each represent an important perspective in overcoming the tribulations that plagued the Italian people.

Pino fought in secrecy, relaying unfathomable eye-witness reports of cruelty, death, greed and madness. His instincts and intelligence ensured that the Allies had access to critical information regarding the engineering efforts, weapon manufacturing and end-of-war escape routes put into place by the Nazis. His faith, familial obligations and love for Anna also added to the relatability and admiration of his character. His character is proof in the incredible resilience of mankind and how the memories of love, loss and heart-wrenching decisions can stick with you forever.

Mimo also grows up largely influenced by the war that rages on around him. He represents all the active members of the resistance whose passion and national pride proved crucial to instilling change in the tide of war and bolstering hope in his fellow countrymen. Operating at the frontlines of danger, Mimo’s fearlessness never faltered and in-turn provided a sense of national purpose in protecting the people of Italy.

Father Re is an example of how the presence of faith has the ability to prevail in the worst of times. His leadership and devotion to taking the righteous path are what taught individuals like Pino and Mimo to believe in God’s plan no matter the evil that exists in front of them. Overall, this novel represents a snapshot of history that should never be forgotten. The author, Mark Sullivan, did a brilliant job at uncovering the intricacies of human nature and emotion, from the good, to the bad, to the despicably ugly.