First, a quick catch-up: In the first book, young lovers Renzo and Lucia were forced to flee their village after a local tyrant, Don Rodrigo, set his sights on Lucia. They got separated, and we left them in hiding, their future completely uncertain.

The Story

This book picks up years later, in a Milan being ravaged by the plague. Renzo, having survived his own misadventures, travels back to the city, sick with worry for Lucia. Lucia, meanwhile, is trapped in Milan, having survived the horrors of the plague 'lazaretto' (a kind of quarantine hospital). The city is a ghost town. Fear and superstition rule. As Renzo searches through the chaos, the story shows us the best and worst of humanity—from the selfless courage of friars caring for the dying to the greed of 'monatti' who profit from the dead. Their search for each other becomes a journey through a broken world.

Why You Should Read It

This isn't just a historical drama. Manzoni makes you feel the grime, the fear, and the faint glimmers of hope. Renzo's dogged determination and Lucia's quiet strength are so real. But what stuck with me were the side characters, like the unforgettable Father Cristoforo, who show what faith and compassion look like in the face of utter despair. The book asks huge questions about fate, justice, and forgiveness without ever feeling preachy.

Final Verdict

Perfect for anyone who loves a story where the setting is as much a character as the people. If you like historical fiction that feels immediate and human, or if you just want a gripping, emotional read about resilience, this is your book. It’s a classic for a reason—it speaks directly to the heart.