In The City Of The Living, Italian novelist Nicola Lagioia depicts a fact-based story: a murder which took place in Rome in March 2016. It’s written in the manner of fiction, and for the most part, feels like it – not least as it’s hard to believe this brutality was dealt with by real-life humans.

Two men, not otherwise associated with crime or violence, tortured and murdered 23-year-old Luca Varani. This grim case shook Italy’s capital, leaving many questions unanswered: Manuel Foffo and Marco Prato, the murderers, did not make clear why they did it. Lagioia, then, took on the role of investigator – talking with Foffo, Prato and their families, as well as Varani’s.

Having collected the gruesome details of the murder, Lagioia put them all together, creating a narrative of fate and bad luck. To do so, he needs to dig into dark recesses of human nature: a place where few go, and those who do are unable to come back as they were. Lagioia inserts himself into the story, showcasing his part as the investigator, asking the impossible questions and demanding answers. 

Outlining the decay of the human psyche with a historic city in the background, The City Of The Living builds to a climactic moment. When it reaches it, it’s with disturbingly entertaining results – for those with strong stomachs.