In this episode of the Italian American Stories Podcast, we’re joined by bestselling author and former CIA officer Carmen Amato for a conversation that weaves together heritage, history, and heart. Carmen shares the incredible story of her family’s roots in Serra San Bruno, Calabria, and how their journey to Rome, New York shaped her upbringing and inspired her historical fiction series, The Galliano Club.
We talk about the real-life stories behind her richly layered characters, her grandfather’s colorful days as a deputy sheriff during Prohibition, and the shocking family secret she uncovered only after her grandmother’s death. Carmen also shares how a local knitting club brought her novels to life with custom yarns and patterns—and how beer, yes beer, just might inspire her next project.
Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of Italian American tales, or a reader in search of your next favorite book, this episode is full of warmth, surprises, and stories that stay with you.
📚 Learn more about Carmen and her books at carmenamato.net
https://www.facebook.com/authorcarmenamato
https://mysteryahead.substack.com
https://frominwoodout.com/travel-guide-galliano-club-thrillers-rome-new-york/
https://orderisda.org/culture/literature/from-stories-to-saga-a-deputy-sheriff-during-prohibition/