The Man at the Port

Vanina Guarrasi, the protagonist of Cristina Cassar Scalia's novels, is the deputy police superintendent of Catania's Squadra Mobile, whose life is torn between burdensome memories and a harsh present. "L’uomo del porto" (The Man at the Port), published by Einaudi, opens with the murder of Vincenzo La Barbera, a philosophy teacher at the liceo classico secondary school - a shy and introverted man who is adored by his students. We are confronted with "the past that does not pass", the superficial provincial respectability that must be defended at all costs, and the inevitable shadow of Mafia interests. But, fortunately, these darker elements are offset by solid friendships, excellent teamwork and the astute investigative skills of a police officer who, despite her advancing years, never gives up. Vanina is a determined woman, and her strength is made even greater by the awareness of her own fragility; she is also well versed in balancing the rational and the emotional. A character that will continue to keep us company. L’uomo del porto Cristina Cassar Scalia Einaudi, 2021