On March 4, Valerio De Lorenzo sat on the patio of the Palazzi Community Center (PCC) and spoke about his new novel ‘La Seconda Guerra di Malavita romanzo.’ The discussion was attended by students and local community members, giving him a chance to speak about his current projects.

De Lorenzo’s new book is a crime novel set in Messenia, Italy. This is his second novel, published through his Edarc Edizioni publishing house, and it tells a story of theft, shootings, rivalry, and more. De Lorenzo assures readers that although the story may be complex, it isn’t meant to be taken too seriously. “First and foremost, it is pure entertainment, a book to read on the beach, before bed, on the train. It is an ideal book to pass the time and enjoy oneself,” says De Lorenzo.

De Lorenzo also makes it clear that his book is not simply a surface-level write-up, saying, “Some might think that certain elements in my books are just decorative, but I assure you there’s deeper meaning behind them.” 

His previous book, titled ‘Memorie della città guerriera’ was written through a historical lens and is about a revolt against Spanish rule. This new crime novel takes place in modern times — quite the departure from his previous story's historic approach. Both of De Lorenzo's books begin in Messenia, Italy, his birthplace. The first novel spends time in multiple countries, ending in North America, while his new novel stays in Messenia exclusively. 

De Lorenzo explains the change in genre by stating that crime and literature are deeply connected. He addresses the shift from writing a historical piece to a crime story saying, “Since the dawn of writing, crime has always been present in literature. If we look at ancient cave paintings, we might find depictions of violence. I'm sure there are hieroglyphics describing crimes as well.”

Angelo Rizzone, who works with Libreria Gioberti, introduced this event at the PCC. Regarding De Lorenzo’s work, Rizzone says, “Valerio's work… entertains us, intrigues us, and captivates us because it's not just a detective story.” 

During his time speaking with De Lorenzo, Rizzone also spoke on the importance of community engagement events “… in my opinion, in times like these, when things are difficult, engaging in cultural activities makes a lot of sense. I firmly believe in the value of such initiatives.” 

Before working as a publisher and author, Lorenzo was a lawyer. He had been interested in writing since his youth, and while he was a lawyer, he began writing more and more until leaving the profession altogether. Before moving to Florence, Lorenzo grew up in Messenia, and although the move was many years ago, his connection to his birth city is clearly still relevant, as it inspired the setting for his two current novels. 

After explaining his history as a lawyer, De Lorenzo makes a lighthearted joke to the audience, referencing  the discussion of crime and literature. “My experience as a lawyer was mostly in divorces and separations, but even family matters can sometimes feel like crime!” exclaims De Lorenzo. 

As Rizzone mentioned, events at the PCC provide a platform for Florence community members to speak with other locals and students about their projects. De Lorenzo appreciates the ability to showcase his work, however, sincerely prefers the writing aspect. “It’s very demanding. It takes a lot out of me, and I think about it a lot in the days leading up to it; In fact, sometimes I can’t even sleep—maybe I’m exaggerating a bit, but it really occupies my mind. I prefer to tell the truth and write… I would be really happy if others talked about my books while I just kept writing,” he explains.

As the event wrapped up on the dimmed patio of the Palazzi Community Center, De Lorenzo thanked the audience and invited them to ask any questions. Before ending the night, he shared information on where they can find his book and publishing house, and the community members slowly trickled out of the courtyard.