Tuesday 24 September at 17:30 in the Member Bar
“Blood on the Altar” by Tobias Jones tells the chilling true story of the murder of Elisa Claps, a 16-year-old Italian girl who disappeared in 1993. Her body was found 17 years later in a church attic in Potenza, uncovering a dark narrative of corruption, cover-ups, and religious conflict. Jones delves into the life of the suspected killer, Danilo Restivo, who was eventually convicted of the crime. The book explores the complex relationship between Italy’s Catholic heritage and its justice system, as well as how the powerful can manipulate the truth. Jones combines investigative journalism with a narrative of how deep-rooted social and institutional issues delayed justice for Elisa. He weaves the personal grief of the Claps family into the larger context of Italy’s criminal underworld and its entanglement with the Church. Through this lens, Jones critiques the broader moral and spiritual decay in modern Italian society.
Our next meeting will be on Tuesday 24 September, at 17:30 in the Members Bar. It’s the perfect opportunity to share your thoughts on the book, explore its themes, and connect with fellow members who share a passion for literature. Don’t miss out on this chance to be part of our vibrant reading community.
