"Shared Sorrows" is a thoughtful and engrossing work of literary fiction. Fitting, because the protagonist, Frank DioGuardia, is a professor of literature.

Frank, who is in late middle age, is approaching the anniversary of his father's death that will signify that he has outlived his father. This has always been a milestone for him, a goal... But this year events conspire to change Frank's mindset dramatically. He takes part in the annual NYC Columbus Day Parade in his Knights of Columbus attire. To prevent a criminal act he uses his ceremonial sword and injures a man. A life changing event that precedes an enlightening and introspective look at his life and his beliefs.

Integral to his life-altering experience is Dr. Laurie McDevitt, the physician who treats him in the ER after the incident. They form an instant rapport due to their 'shared sorrows'. She lost her father on the same date that he did. Frank is married and the father of three adult children. Don't be mislead, this is not a story of infidelity. Rather it is a story of one man's epiphany - when he discovers his life to be fraudulent. A personality crisis of gigantic proportions.

The media jump upon Frank and create a frenzy that impacts his life and the lives of those who care for him. One pivotal event follows another...

"Shared Sorrows" is an eloquently written novel that touches upon several serious subjects. The mystery of marital relationships, faith and religion, politics and totalitarianism, perception generated by media, and corruption within the Catholic Church. Republicans be warned... there is even some Trump bashing (which I personally appreciated).

I would recommend this novel to readers who like measured, introspective, literary fiction.

Vincent Panettiere has written several books and Shared Sorrows is his latest thriller. It begins with a New Jersey college professor, Frank Dio Guardia dreading autumn as it rekindles his grief and questions of what he has achieved in life. His attendance at a Knight of Columbus rally sees him prevent an attempted killing of the archbishop and he becomes an overnight media hero. Laurie McDevitt, the Emergency Doctor assessing him, reveals she also lost her father on the same date his father died, and the unlikely pair form a friendship. The media exploit Frank and label his friendship an affair, costing Frank his promotion to Literature Department Head. As Frank’s life begins to suffer, he is caught up in a turn of events that some readers may find triggering, so a warning: there are abuse disclosures. Despite a very slow build-up and the story morphing into a clerical abuse tale lacking in real tension, makes this a three star read rating. My thanks to BooksGoSocial and the author, for an uncorrected advanced reader copy for review purposes. As always, the opinions herein are totally my own and freely given.

Well developed characters and good storyline. Excellent use of past and present. Thanks to Netgalley for the opportunity to read this book

I like this book. It’s not exactly my genre. Nonetheless I couldn’t stop reading. Not sure how I feel about redemption for someone who caused a violent act a another person. Not sure that the character is capable of it. Thank you NetGally for providing an ARC copy of this book

This was a great read- almost suffocatingly good. It was well written with a compelling and intriguing storyline and well developed characters. with twists and unpredictability but also love and tenderness. I really liked it.