Captain Moretti's Daughter

In Captain Moretti’s Daughter, Sally E. DiPaula delivers a compelling narrative set against the backdrop of a 1960s cargo ship, creating a rich setting that intertwines with themes of identity, fear, and resilience. 15-year-old Francesca Moretti (Frankie) finds herself in the tumultuous waters of life after her mother's death and her father's absence, leading her into a world of danger and mystery. The plot centers around Frankie’s search for the murder of a crew member, the wiper named Kristian, aboard the ship Il Destino, captained by her father, Flavio Moretti. After Frankie runs away from her unpleasant aunt and uncle to join her father, her adventures quickly escalate when she discovers that one of the crew members is involved in a sinister plot. The interplay between Frankie's quest for independence and her father's protective instincts drives the narrative forward and fills the story with tension.  

Frankie is a spirited character, a blend of vulnerability and determination. Her character development is enriched by her emotional struggle with the loss of her mother and the adjustment to life aboard the ship. As she navigates the challenges of her father's expectations and the realities of the sea, her motivations are relatable and compelling. Supporting characters, including the men of the crew, are fully drawn. Notable figures like Danilo, the chief steward, who guides Frankie, believing in her strength while simultaneously fearing for her safety are intriguing. The multiple layers of personality in these characters enhance the storytelling. The setting of Il Destino is a character in its own right, depicted vividly through DiPaula's detailed descriptions of the ship's interior and the port cities of Baltimore and Naples. The claustrophobic atmosphere of the ship juxtaposed against the expansive ocean symbolizes Frankie’s struggle with confinement—literal as well as emotional. The fog and storms that ominously loom over the journey parallel Frankie’s internal uncertainties and fears regarding her place in the world and the dangers lurking within it. Captain Moretti’s Daughter is ingeniously accomplished, and Sally E. DiPaula’s gift for character, plot, and superior writing creates an enriching reading experience. DiPaula utilizes elements of mystery and suspense reminiscent of Agatha Christie, imprinting Frankie’s reliance on her intellect as she seeks to solve the murder. Frankie's interactions with the crew members, all potential suspects, create a web of intrigue that keeps readers guessing until the final denouement.