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The Dark Side of the Sky
A page-turning literary fantasy filled with terror and wonder, set in a sun-baked Southern Italy, for fans of The Girls by Emma Cline, The Magus by John Fowles and The Great Believers by Rebecca Makkai.
It’s been labelled a doomsday cult, but the Bastion might be humanity’s last hope. Amidst all the lies and chaos, come hear their true story, in their own words.
On the rural coast of Puglia, Italy, Becca and Ric run the Bastion, offering solace and a home for lost souls. Each year they welcome new members to join the Open Feast, where they teach them to release their burdens and create a better world, in a journey of self-discovery and spiritual teachings.
But the Bastion has secrets. The Bastion has a destiny. Deep in the Inner Pinewood, a place of real magic and beauty, they are all that stands against the dark forces that would tear the sky wide open
And what of those who call Becca and Ric liars? Cult leaders and con artists? What of those who tried to leave the Bastion? As it becomes increasingly difficult to tell truth from fiction, who can you trust to save us all?
It’s been labelled a doomsday cult, but the Bastion might be humanity’s last hope. Amidst all the lies and chaos, come hear their true story, in their own words.
On the rural coast of Puglia, Italy, Becca and Ric run the Bastion, offering solace and a home for lost souls. Each year they welcome new members to join the Open Feast, where they teach them to release their burdens and create a better world, in a journey of self-discovery and spiritual teachings.
But the Bastion has secrets. The Bastion has a destiny. Deep in the Inner Pinewood, a place of real magic and beauty, they are all that stands against the dark forces that would tear the sky wide open
And what of those who call Becca and Ric liars? Cult leaders and con artists? What of those who tried to leave the Bastion? As it becomes increasingly difficult to tell truth from fiction, who can you trust to save us all?
355 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 7, 2024
About the author
Francesco Dimitri
31 books239 followersFrancesco Dimitri is an Italian author living in London.
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Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews
May 9, 2024
2.0 Stars
Video Review: https://youtu.be/OqKPLv-OPAc
I am always attracted to novels that break the mold or offer something different. So naturally this genre bending book immediately caught my attention. I always say that I would rather an author take chances rather than play it safe.
However in this case, those risks did not pay off. This is one of those books that is hard to pitch because it's trying to do too many things and the results ended up falling flat. I wanted to love this one but I was ultimately left disappointed
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
Video Review: https://youtu.be/OqKPLv-OPAc
I am always attracted to novels that break the mold or offer something different. So naturally this genre bending book immediately caught my attention. I always say that I would rather an author take chances rather than play it safe.
However in this case, those risks did not pay off. This is one of those books that is hard to pitch because it's trying to do too many things and the results ended up falling flat. I wanted to love this one but I was ultimately left disappointed
Disclaimer I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
May 7, 2024
The Dark Side Of The Sky by Fransesco Dimitri
First off we all know not to judge a book by its cover but let's all appreciate how beautiful the cover for this book is!
I really liked the way this was written with different points of view and timelines coming at you, it was unusual and an interesting way to figure out what is going on. The writing is very good and though the first quarter or so of the book is paced slower than the rest it keeps up the intrigue, I wanted to know what was true and what was really happening and ultimately that is for you to decide.
A thought provoking read that will leave you questioning, I haven’t read the author's other two English language books with the same setting but will definitely be checking them out now.
Blurb
“It’s been labelled a doomsday cult, but the Bastion might be humanity’s last hope. Amidst all the lies and chaos, come hear their true story, in their own words.
On the rural coast of Puglia, Italy, Becca and Ric run the Bastion, offering solace and a home for lost souls. Each year they welcome new members to join the Open Feast, where they teach them to release their burdens and create a better world, in a journey of self-discovery and spiritual teachings.
But the Bastion has secrets. The Bastion has a destiny. Deep in the Inner Pinewood, a place of real magic and beauty, they are all that stands against the dark forces that would tear the sky wide open
And what of those who call Becca and Ric liars? Cult leaders and con artists? What of those who tried to leave the Bastion? As it becomes increasingly difficult to tell truth from fiction, who can you trust to save us all?”
Thanks to the author @messapianfrank and @Titanbooks the publisher for sending me an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
First off we all know not to judge a book by its cover but let's all appreciate how beautiful the cover for this book is!
I really liked the way this was written with different points of view and timelines coming at you, it was unusual and an interesting way to figure out what is going on. The writing is very good and though the first quarter or so of the book is paced slower than the rest it keeps up the intrigue, I wanted to know what was true and what was really happening and ultimately that is for you to decide.
A thought provoking read that will leave you questioning, I haven’t read the author's other two English language books with the same setting but will definitely be checking them out now.
Blurb
“It’s been labelled a doomsday cult, but the Bastion might be humanity’s last hope. Amidst all the lies and chaos, come hear their true story, in their own words.
On the rural coast of Puglia, Italy, Becca and Ric run the Bastion, offering solace and a home for lost souls. Each year they welcome new members to join the Open Feast, where they teach them to release their burdens and create a better world, in a journey of self-discovery and spiritual teachings.
But the Bastion has secrets. The Bastion has a destiny. Deep in the Inner Pinewood, a place of real magic and beauty, they are all that stands against the dark forces that would tear the sky wide open
And what of those who call Becca and Ric liars? Cult leaders and con artists? What of those who tried to leave the Bastion? As it becomes increasingly difficult to tell truth from fiction, who can you trust to save us all?”
Thanks to the author @messapianfrank and @Titanbooks the publisher for sending me an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
May 5, 2024
The Bastion was labeled as a Doomsday cult, but it's a home for lost souls. New members join every year and are taught how to release burdens and create a better world. There are secrets, however, and the Bastion stands against forces that might tear open the sky.
The story is told from the POV of Bastion members as well as Zoey and Charlie. At first, it was a bit jarring, because the POV changes were fast and their sections were short. Ultimately, it lets us see what's happening at the same time in different locations across the world, as well as the past and present timelines. We eventually learn the history of the Bastion, Ric, and Becca, as well as the others participating in the humming ritual.
Zoey lied on her application to join the Bastion team at their Open Feast, thinking to scope out the competition for wellness and complementary medicine retreats. Charlie is a physician whose husband just died of an aneurysm, so her grief is sharp and painful. They both fall under the Bastion's spell and in staying on the farm to learn the techniques that the siblings teach, they see the Other Sky and hear the banging of something that wants to break through. The outside world focuses on the sex, drugs, and cult-like isolation.
I have to admit, I'm not a fan of most of the characters or the narrative insisting that the siblings are geniuses that the world misunderstands and should admire. But they're compelling, and trying to figure out the truth makes it fascinating to dive into. The way people were drawn in, the conviction that they held, and the way it all spirals really drew me in, and I had to keep going. It's a well-written story and has a zinger at the end to really make you question what happened.
The story is told from the POV of Bastion members as well as Zoey and Charlie. At first, it was a bit jarring, because the POV changes were fast and their sections were short. Ultimately, it lets us see what's happening at the same time in different locations across the world, as well as the past and present timelines. We eventually learn the history of the Bastion, Ric, and Becca, as well as the others participating in the humming ritual.
Zoey lied on her application to join the Bastion team at their Open Feast, thinking to scope out the competition for wellness and complementary medicine retreats. Charlie is a physician whose husband just died of an aneurysm, so her grief is sharp and painful. They both fall under the Bastion's spell and in staying on the farm to learn the techniques that the siblings teach, they see the Other Sky and hear the banging of something that wants to break through. The outside world focuses on the sex, drugs, and cult-like isolation.
I have to admit, I'm not a fan of most of the characters or the narrative insisting that the siblings are geniuses that the world misunderstands and should admire. But they're compelling, and trying to figure out the truth makes it fascinating to dive into. The way people were drawn in, the conviction that they held, and the way it all spirals really drew me in, and I had to keep going. It's a well-written story and has a zinger at the end to really make you question what happened.
May 2, 2024
Francesco Dimitri's latest escapade, The Dark Side of the Sky, brings us back to his enchanting storytelling, albeit with a slow start that might test your patience—but stick with it! Set in a grand villa along Italy's Adriatic Coast, the book delves into the lives of a select group who spend four days each June indulging in secretive rituals, from whispering painful secrets into bonfires to dancing naked under the rain. But the retreat takes a mysterious twist when some don't return home, sparking fears of a cult led by the charismatic siblings, Rebecca and Riccardo Abbracciavento.
As the guests undergo spiritual transformations and surreal experiences, external pressures mount. Journalists and drones start circling, capturing footage of what outsiders label orgiastic and satanic rituals, leading to internal strife and mob confrontations outside the villa gates.
While the first third of the book may feel leisurely paced, Dimitri’s craftsmanship shines as the plot thickens—everything is essential, building towards a grand scheme that subtly shifts your understanding without notice. The Dark Side of the Sky is Dimitri’s third book in English, following The Book of Hidden Things and Never the Wind. While it stands alone, eagle-eyed fans will spot a few cameos hinting that these narratives share the same universe. This book melds shocking elements with vivid descriptions of summer nights and Italian culinary delights, crafting a story that challenges our notions of belief and fanaticism. If you're ready for a thought-provoking ride that blends the mundane with the fantastical, Dimitri's latest is a must-read.
As the guests undergo spiritual transformations and surreal experiences, external pressures mount. Journalists and drones start circling, capturing footage of what outsiders label orgiastic and satanic rituals, leading to internal strife and mob confrontations outside the villa gates.
While the first third of the book may feel leisurely paced, Dimitri’s craftsmanship shines as the plot thickens—everything is essential, building towards a grand scheme that subtly shifts your understanding without notice. The Dark Side of the Sky is Dimitri’s third book in English, following The Book of Hidden Things and Never the Wind. While it stands alone, eagle-eyed fans will spot a few cameos hinting that these narratives share the same universe. This book melds shocking elements with vivid descriptions of summer nights and Italian culinary delights, crafting a story that challenges our notions of belief and fanaticism. If you're ready for a thought-provoking ride that blends the mundane with the fantastical, Dimitri's latest is a must-read.
February 29, 2024
4.5 Stars
Francesco Dimitri's third book in English, and while you don't have to have read The Book of Hidden Trees and Never the Wind, there are a couple of cameos to let you know the three share the same universe.
The Dark Side of the Sky is a bit slow for the first third, and while I was loving the writing I was marking half a star of the score for awhile - but I should have kept faith. As always Dimitri has a big (enormous) picture in mind and not a single scene is wasted or not needed. The things that happen, slow as it might seem at the time, all add up so that you can not possibly say when you cross from one state to another (yes, being deliberately vague).
The story in its most basic is that of a (possible) cult, a group of members desperate for somewhere to belong and for some sense of wonder and magic. The fact that they have been chosen to help save the world is the cherry on top. But as in all of Dimitri's works what is real and what is maybe one person's delusions is the question.
I love Dimitri's writing, he has been called the Italian Gaiman but maybe Gaiman should be called the English Dimitri.
Francesco Dimitri's third book in English, and while you don't have to have read The Book of Hidden Trees and Never the Wind, there are a couple of cameos to let you know the three share the same universe.
The Dark Side of the Sky is a bit slow for the first third, and while I was loving the writing I was marking half a star of the score for awhile - but I should have kept faith. As always Dimitri has a big (enormous) picture in mind and not a single scene is wasted or not needed. The things that happen, slow as it might seem at the time, all add up so that you can not possibly say when you cross from one state to another (yes, being deliberately vague).
The story in its most basic is that of a (possible) cult, a group of members desperate for somewhere to belong and for some sense of wonder and magic. The fact that they have been chosen to help save the world is the cherry on top. But as in all of Dimitri's works what is real and what is maybe one person's delusions is the question.
I love Dimitri's writing, he has been called the Italian Gaiman but maybe Gaiman should be called the English Dimitri.
May 6, 2024
First of all, the Good: the writing of this is very interesting. Multiple voices, but easy to follow who is speaking (mostly), and I liked the varied perspectives.
Unfortunately, though, this was a DNF for me.
I'm a pagan lady who's been to events such as those satirised in this book, and I fully see where the author is coming from (in a fun way)! It's a soft target but shows how those different personality types are drawn to attend and run such events (before we get to the fantastic story aspects, of course).
What made me frustrated was how basic each character was. I assumed they'd develop as we moved forward, but nope - all remained unlikeable stereotypes. Yes, they're damaged and vulnerable, but being the caricatures that are being literally lampshaded in the story was a bit much!
I stopped at about 1/3 because the frustration was overcoming the enjoyment. Apologies.
Early ARC kindly sent via NetGalley.
Unfortunately, though, this was a DNF for me.
I'm a pagan lady who's been to events such as those satirised in this book, and I fully see where the author is coming from (in a fun way)! It's a soft target but shows how those different personality types are drawn to attend and run such events (before we get to the fantastic story aspects, of course).
What made me frustrated was how basic each character was. I assumed they'd develop as we moved forward, but nope - all remained unlikeable stereotypes. Yes, they're damaged and vulnerable, but being the caricatures that are being literally lampshaded in the story was a bit much!
I stopped at about 1/3 because the frustration was overcoming the enjoyment. Apologies.
Early ARC kindly sent via NetGalley.
May 14, 2024
As the dark of evening gathers and the fire crackles, the Open Feast awaits you and your fellow guests. You gather around the fire, close your eyes, and hum in unison with your misfits-in-arms, feeling the known world melt away.
In The Dark Night of the Sky, Francesco Dmitri, author of Never the Wind and The Book of Hidden Things, weaves a thrilling tale of belonging, morality, and the social contract we all unwittingly sign upon birth. The novel follows The Bastion, a spiritualist collective in Puglia, Italy, and the diverse visitors of their annual 'Open Feast.'
With nuanced and morally complex characters, Dmitri blurs the lines between cult and community, offering a fascinating narrative that disorients and captivates.
Read the full review on TalesfromAbsurdia.com
In The Dark Night of the Sky, Francesco Dmitri, author of Never the Wind and The Book of Hidden Things, weaves a thrilling tale of belonging, morality, and the social contract we all unwittingly sign upon birth. The novel follows The Bastion, a spiritualist collective in Puglia, Italy, and the diverse visitors of their annual 'Open Feast.'
With nuanced and morally complex characters, Dmitri blurs the lines between cult and community, offering a fascinating narrative that disorients and captivates.
Read the full review on TalesfromAbsurdia.com
May 8, 2024
Ooooh what a fantastic and enchanting cult book! I really enjoy cult style books and this one did not disappoint. I really like how it was set in the modern day and interpreted Covid-19 into the storyline, it made it feel very authentic.
I really liked the way that the story was narrated and enjoyed the little comments about the past/future. I always enjoy short chapters and felt I was reading through this book rapidly! A whole bunch of interesting characters in this one and I wanted to know everything about them all. I want to say Charlie was my favourite but I really liked Lila too… I liked them all really, some of their choices were definitely a bit questionable though!
& oooooh what a cliff hanger ending!! I want to know more… I NEED MORE!
If you enjoy a Cult storyline then definitely check this book out!
I really liked the way that the story was narrated and enjoyed the little comments about the past/future. I always enjoy short chapters and felt I was reading through this book rapidly! A whole bunch of interesting characters in this one and I wanted to know everything about them all. I want to say Charlie was my favourite but I really liked Lila too… I liked them all really, some of their choices were definitely a bit questionable though!
& oooooh what a cliff hanger ending!! I want to know more… I NEED MORE!
If you enjoy a Cult storyline then definitely check this book out!
March 22, 2024
I'm so glad I read this! It's almost a five star, more like 4.5 -- and I'd question labelling this fantasy. It's really not!
The immersion into The Bastion's world, from the Open Feast to the hum to the collection of people who live permanently at the Villa and spend time in the Inner Pinewood is infused with cultesque/religious fervor. Who are Becca and Ric? What is the Bastion's fight? Is it all drug-fueled or does the Inner Pinewood actually exist? At times I wondered if the author had seen Shephard's Angel City, with the universal heartbeat being replaced by Becca's hum.
The ending to it all (no spoilers) is no surprise, with villagers and a hungry media bringing the group's idyll to a dramatic close that you can feel coming from the very beginning. Apparently this is set in a village that the author has set two previous books in, and I'm planning to check them out!
eARC provided by publisher via Edelweiss.
The immersion into The Bastion's world, from the Open Feast to the hum to the collection of people who live permanently at the Villa and spend time in the Inner Pinewood is infused with cultesque/religious fervor. Who are Becca and Ric? What is the Bastion's fight? Is it all drug-fueled or does the Inner Pinewood actually exist? At times I wondered if the author had seen Shephard's Angel City, with the universal heartbeat being replaced by Becca's hum.
The ending to it all (no spoilers) is no surprise, with villagers and a hungry media bringing the group's idyll to a dramatic close that you can feel coming from the very beginning. Apparently this is set in a village that the author has set two previous books in, and I'm planning to check them out!
eARC provided by publisher via Edelweiss.
May 12, 2024
You may not like the premise or the characters (I didn't), and you may think you know where the narrative is going, but just trust the author on this one: he knows what he's doing and a FULL read will be rewarded. Let the story leisurely engross you, allow it to take you on the mediterrenean pinewood by the sea with the Abbracciaventos and let your perspective slowly shift on those characters, as more details on their past and personalities are revealed. Keep reading until the very end, and maybe your perspective will shift once more and you'll have experienced an higly evocative journey through madness and wonder.
Displaying 1 - 10 of 10 reviews