THE ANNUNCIATION BY RON TEACHWORTH

This exciting and unusual novel is based on true events from the late 1990’s. The book centers around an assassination attempt on the Pope by underground radicals, which closely involved a group of foreign students participating in an art restoration program in Italy. Two of the students, Olivia Gianetti, and Finn McNelis, fall in love but keep it a secret because they have sworn to be celibate and are confused by their feelings for each other.  As the visit of the Pope draws near, and the discovery of a rare sketch in the wall of a fresco only adds to the tension and questions, will the attended assassination be pulled off or can an unlikely hero save the day?

The thoroughly researched Vatican high church setting and its subtle art references were mixed with suspense. The writing was journalistic and factual, even brief at times but filled with details. Olivia and Finn’s romance was very observantly handled. At times I couldn’t help laughing at how recognizable, even commonplace their attraction was, with Olivia thinking wistfully that Finn’s smile reminded her of Hugh Grant, and Finn’s hot embarrassment when he spilled his underwear-filled suitcase at Olivia’s feet. Side characters, among them Vanessa, a fellow seminarian of Olivia’s and a confidante,  Father Paggi, a friendly priest, and Daresh Oldani, the planned assassin of the Pope were shown colorfully. The end was a surprise, and the frequent banter and humor from the characters helped flesh out and ground in ordinary life the premise and situations.  A fun and informative read. Five star.

I was given this book by BookLookBloggers in exchange for my honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.