Safe Return Doubtful

translated from the Italian by Antonella Lettieri – Longlisted for the International Booker Prize 2026

In an isolated village high in the foothills of the Dolomites lives the Duke, in a grand villa passed down through the generations of his wealthy ancestors. Without heir, he is the last of the Cimamontes, and spends his days wandering his land and researching the family archive. By the local villagers, his neighbours, he is just about tolerated, though occasionally made fun of.

He discovers that one of those mocking him is taking timber from his land and has a decision to make, to remain aloof, in hermit-like isolation, or fight for the honour of his ancestors.

This is wonderful storytelling. Staid in his ways, the Duke is a peculiar and fascinating character, a great literary creation. The plot moves quickly and with appropriately timed twists that demand attention. The Duke’s feud is compelling, a marvellous piece of historical fiction that ask questions relevant to today’s society, of privilege, of our association with the past, the natural world and even each other.

It’s just a bit long..

My GoodReads score 4 / 5