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Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite
The Ones Closest to You by Stephanie Verni unfolds in 1950s New York City, weaving newsroom tension, romantic drama, and family loyalty themes. Central to the story is Veronica DeMarco, a determined feature writer aspiring to become a successful novelist. As her career accelerates, she grapples with the heavy responsibility of caring for her older sister, Essie, who is affected by the lasting impacts of polio. Verni’s prose balances the grit of journalism with the warmth of sisterhood and burgeoning love. The narrative explores themes of sacrifice, ambition, and emotional restraint. Veronica’s relationship with Essie is tender and layered, portraying the bond between siblings who rely on each other. Despite Essie’s physical limitations, she remains vital in Veronica’s world, anchoring and complicating her choices.
When a charismatic sports reporter, Perry Spada, enters Veronica’s professional circle, the story shifts into a slow-blooming romance that captures the era’s charm. Their banter is witty and natural, and their mutual affection for baseball, particularly Mickey Mantle, grounds their connection in shared enthusiasm. The pacing allows room for reflection, especially as Veronica grapples with guilt over seeking personal joy while being a caregiver. Yet, the novel is ultimately optimistic, suggesting that love, ambition, and responsibility can coexist. The dialogue is often lively, and the historical details, from bustling newsrooms to postwar city life, enhance the story’s texture. The Ones Closest to You is about loyalty and second chances, with moments of quiet emotion nestled among the everyday bustle of mid-century Manhattan. Readers who enjoy character-driven fiction, historical settings, and stories that honor emotional commitment will find much to admire in Stephanie Verni’s novel.
