Where Things Get Dark: A Twisted Journey into the Italian Psyche

Italy, the land of sun-drenched piazzas, ancient ruins, and passionate romance… also hides a darker side. It’s this intriguing duality that makes Italy’s contemporary literature so captivating.

One such work that delves deep into this shadowed territory is “Where Things Get Dark” (In het Nederlands: “Waar Dingen Donker Worden”), by the prolific Italian author Davide Brullo.

This chilling thriller, translated from its original Italian title “Dove le cose si fanno buie”, takes readers on a twisting journey through the back alleys and cobblestone streets of a modern-day Venice shrouded in mist and secrets. Brullo paints a vivid portrait of this iconic city, not as the romanticized tourist destination but as a place where darkness can linger beneath the surface beauty.

Delving into the Depths of Human Nature

“Where Things Get Dark” centers around Daniele, a solitary librarian haunted by a traumatic childhood event. When he stumbles upon a series of unsettling postcards depicting gruesome scenes, Daniele’s quiet existence is irrevocably shattered. Driven by an insatiable need to uncover the truth behind the enigmatic images, Daniele embarks on a perilous investigation that forces him to confront his own buried demons and the sinister underbelly of Venetian society.

Brullo masterfully weaves together elements of psychological suspense with historical intrigue. The novel unfolds in two distinct timelines: Daniele’s present-day quest for answers and the harrowing events of World War II that cast a long shadow over Venice. As the story progresses, these timelines converge, revealing chilling connections between the past and present.

The author skillfully explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the fragile nature of memory. Daniele’s struggle to reconcile with his traumatic past is mirrored by the city’s own attempts to grapple with its wartime history. Brullo invites readers to question the line between truth and fabrication, leaving them with a lingering sense of unease long after the final page is turned.

A Masterclass in Atmospheric Storytelling

Brullo’s prose is both lyrical and unsettling, drawing readers into the labyrinthine streets and canals of Venice. He captures the city’s unique atmosphere with haunting precision, contrasting its breathtaking beauty with a pervasive sense of dread. The reader becomes complicit in Daniele’s descent into darkness, experiencing his growing paranoia and the blurring lines between reality and delusion.

Here are some key features that elevate “Where Things Get Dark” beyond a typical thriller:

“Where Things Get Dark” is a compelling read for those who appreciate intricate plots, psychological depth, and atmospheric storytelling. It’s a book that stays with you long after you finish it, prompting reflection on the complexities of human nature and the enduring impact of the past. If you’re looking for a thrilling escape into a world both familiar and unsettling, “Where Things Get Dark” is a journey worth taking.