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The Lost Diary of Venice
A secret diary. A forbidden love. A centuries old mystery to solve.
When a rare sixteenth-century manuscript lands on her desk courtesy of William, a struggling painter, shy book restorer Rose makes a startling it is a palimpsest. Beneath the text is a different document, one that's been written over. What they discover is the secret diary of William's ancestor, Giovanni Lomazzo, a Venetian painter who has just been commissioned by Venice's most powerful admiral to paint a portrait of his favourite courtesan... it is a diary of forbidden love, dangerous political plots, and secrets that could destroy everyone involved.
Together, Rose and William work to solve the mystery of what happened to the secret lovers. As feelings develop between Rose and William, their own experience begins to mirror the affair that they're uncovering, and each set of lovers is forced to confront the reality of their romance.
A richly detailed and sweeping page-turner, Margaux's sumptuous portrait of late Renaissance Italy will have you falling headlong into history, slipping in and out of the shadows along the canals of Venice.
When a rare sixteenth-century manuscript lands on her desk courtesy of William, a struggling painter, shy book restorer Rose makes a startling it is a palimpsest. Beneath the text is a different document, one that's been written over. What they discover is the secret diary of William's ancestor, Giovanni Lomazzo, a Venetian painter who has just been commissioned by Venice's most powerful admiral to paint a portrait of his favourite courtesan... it is a diary of forbidden love, dangerous political plots, and secrets that could destroy everyone involved.
Together, Rose and William work to solve the mystery of what happened to the secret lovers. As feelings develop between Rose and William, their own experience begins to mirror the affair that they're uncovering, and each set of lovers is forced to confront the reality of their romance.
A richly detailed and sweeping page-turner, Margaux's sumptuous portrait of late Renaissance Italy will have you falling headlong into history, slipping in and out of the shadows along the canals of Venice.
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First published June 9, 2020
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About the author
Margaux Deroux
1 book143 followersI grew up in the lush wilderness of Alaska and now live with my husband and daughter in San Francisco. I come from a family of painters, and I write historical fiction that centers on art and artists. Please feel free to ask questions, I love to connect with readers!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 244 reviews
March 2, 2020
Present day Connecticut. Rose, a book restorer, is approached by a struggling painter William Lomazzo to restore a book about art by Giovanni Lomazzo.
Renaissance Venice. Giovanni Lomazzo is commissioned by Sebastiano Venier to paint his courtesan Chiara.
Venier, a statesman, hopes to be appointed admiral if Venice is forced to go to war with the Ottoman Empire. The win over Ottomans would give him the doge’s seat, which he is hoping for.
Meanwhile, the Ottomans are approaching the island of Cyprus. Taking over Cyprus would give them a good position and help them to take over Venice.
The first 25% of the story is very engrossing, introducing characters and historical background of powerful Venice vs Ottomans. But then the story mostly evolves between two romantic relationships, set in dual timelines. If you like reading romances, then this might be an interesting read for you. But I was looking forward to more of historical background of powerful Venice vs Ottomans, both sides fought for control of trading routs over Mediterranean Sea for centuries.
There was also another aspect, which I enjoyed and maybe would not draw attention to others. For a moment it touched upon the subject of some women being able to read in the 16th century, which back then was very rare. It is a fact that Venetian courtesans of the time were the most educated women. They were the only women allowed in the libraries, thus giving them access to all the books. I’d rather see this story as parallel with the modern day story, rather than romance.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Renaissance Venice. Giovanni Lomazzo is commissioned by Sebastiano Venier to paint his courtesan Chiara.
Venier, a statesman, hopes to be appointed admiral if Venice is forced to go to war with the Ottoman Empire. The win over Ottomans would give him the doge’s seat, which he is hoping for.
Meanwhile, the Ottomans are approaching the island of Cyprus. Taking over Cyprus would give them a good position and help them to take over Venice.
The first 25% of the story is very engrossing, introducing characters and historical background of powerful Venice vs Ottomans. But then the story mostly evolves between two romantic relationships, set in dual timelines. If you like reading romances, then this might be an interesting read for you. But I was looking forward to more of historical background of powerful Venice vs Ottomans, both sides fought for control of trading routs over Mediterranean Sea for centuries.
There was also another aspect, which I enjoyed and maybe would not draw attention to others. For a moment it touched upon the subject of some women being able to read in the 16th century, which back then was very rare. It is a fact that Venetian courtesans of the time were the most educated women. They were the only women allowed in the libraries, thus giving them access to all the books. I’d rather see this story as parallel with the modern day story, rather than romance.
Source: ARC was provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 2, 2020
Two time frames, linked together by one ancient book; a book that needs to be restored.
Present day, New Haven Ct. William Lomazzo, while going through his deceased grandmother's belongings, finds a book written by Giovanni Lomazzo. He takes it to Rose Newlin, a book store owner and book restorer. She begins to restore it and obtains translation. As a result of this restoration and its review, William and Rose are attracted to each other. Rose is single, but William is married... ah, an unfortunate complication.
Late 16th Century, Venice, Italy. Giovanni Lomazzo, a real person who existed, is commissioned by Sebastiano Venier (also a real person) to do a portrait of Chiara, Venier's courtesan. The artist and the courtesan fall in love and must keep their liaison as secret as possible.
The dual timeline is educational and entertaining. Present day CT bookstore vs Venice of the 1570's. Real people are named with real events. Battle of Leponto is at least one of the real events. The battle was engaged to free a colony of Venetians on Cyprus from the Turks. The book is slow reading for me because I keep stopping to look things up on Wikipedia.
The author provides a Note from the Author when the book is complete. It is a beautifully written note and explains very clearing the author's motivations in writing this book. It also makes some sense of what is historically happening in 1571 and also why she picked an Ivy League college city (Yale is the college) in which to locate the present day story.
The product of my research revealed the following: Venier was married to a woman named Cecilia. His marriage is never mentioned in Deroux' book. But Deroux did cleverly include Cecilia as the maid servant of Chiara.
I did have a problem with some of Deroux' similes. She just seemed to be trying too hard to impress.
I did like the book and treasure what I have learned both about book restoration and the Venice of 1571.
4 stars
Present day, New Haven Ct. William Lomazzo, while going through his deceased grandmother's belongings, finds a book written by Giovanni Lomazzo. He takes it to Rose Newlin, a book store owner and book restorer. She begins to restore it and obtains translation. As a result of this restoration and its review, William and Rose are attracted to each other. Rose is single, but William is married... ah, an unfortunate complication.
Late 16th Century, Venice, Italy. Giovanni Lomazzo, a real person who existed, is commissioned by Sebastiano Venier (also a real person) to do a portrait of Chiara, Venier's courtesan. The artist and the courtesan fall in love and must keep their liaison as secret as possible.
The dual timeline is educational and entertaining. Present day CT bookstore vs Venice of the 1570's. Real people are named with real events. Battle of Leponto is at least one of the real events. The battle was engaged to free a colony of Venetians on Cyprus from the Turks. The book is slow reading for me because I keep stopping to look things up on Wikipedia.
The author provides a Note from the Author when the book is complete. It is a beautifully written note and explains very clearing the author's motivations in writing this book. It also makes some sense of what is historically happening in 1571 and also why she picked an Ivy League college city (Yale is the college) in which to locate the present day story.
The product of my research revealed the following: Venier was married to a woman named Cecilia. His marriage is never mentioned in Deroux' book. But Deroux did cleverly include Cecilia as the maid servant of Chiara.
I did have a problem with some of Deroux' similes. She just seemed to be trying too hard to impress.
I did like the book and treasure what I have learned both about book restoration and the Venice of 1571.
4 stars
May 16, 2020
This is an intriguing and immersive historical fiction straddling two timelines - current day in New Haven, Connecticut and 1571 in Venice, Italy. Rose Newlin owner of a bookstore, she’s also a book restorer. In walks William Lomazzo, an artist, who brings with him an old document found at the bottom of his great-grandmother‘s trunk. The document turns out to be a palimpsest dated Venezia 1571. Back in the late Renaissance, Venice is bracing itself for the onslaught of the advancing Ottoman army. Giovanni Lamazzo, a well-known brilliant artist of the day, has been commissioned to paint Chiara, a favorite courtesan, of powerful military commander Sebastiano Vernier. But love cannot be put in a box and Giovanni and Chiara find themselves in dangerous waters as Venice simmers with intensity and desperation as the Ottoman army advances imminently closer. Back to present day, the Rose-William connection threatens to take shape...but clearly plays second fiddle to the first, for all the right reasons. This was a very enjoyable read that kept me immersed and engrossed in the storyline, particularly the sixteenth century one. Intrigue, a bit of mystery, history, culture, and a bit of romance all swirled together for a nice interlude. I’d definitely recommend it. This was a perfect book to distract one from the realities of everyday life - current day COVID-19! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book.
February 19, 2020
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Publish date June 20, 2020
Thank you #netgalley and #ballantinebooks for the opportunity to read and review this delightful book. This story unfolds in the present time and in 1571 Venice. Rose is a book restorer who has been engaged by William (an artist) to restore a tome found in his grandmother's belongings. As she begins to restore the fragile vellum, she finds it's a palimpsest. At the same time she finds herself drawn to William each time he visits. The story also unfolds in Venice where Gio, an artist (and William's ancestor), is engaged to create a painting for a wealthy patron's courtesan, Chiara, whose beauty immediately captures his heart and imagination. The author does a fine job weaving each story together as the book progresses. I felt as if I were in Venice and in Rose's restoration room. I loved the authors use of language to create the atmosphere of each chapter. I highly recommend this book.
Publish date June 20, 2020
Thank you #netgalley and #ballantinebooks for the opportunity to read and review this delightful book. This story unfolds in the present time and in 1571 Venice. Rose is a book restorer who has been engaged by William (an artist) to restore a tome found in his grandmother's belongings. As she begins to restore the fragile vellum, she finds it's a palimpsest. At the same time she finds herself drawn to William each time he visits. The story also unfolds in Venice where Gio, an artist (and William's ancestor), is engaged to create a painting for a wealthy patron's courtesan, Chiara, whose beauty immediately captures his heart and imagination. The author does a fine job weaving each story together as the book progresses. I felt as if I were in Venice and in Rose's restoration room. I loved the authors use of language to create the atmosphere of each chapter. I highly recommend this book.
September 6, 2020
The Lost Diary of Venice
Mrgaux DeRoux
The Lost Diary of Venice is a seamless story - one in present day Connecticut and the other 5 centuries prior during the Renaissance period in Venice. This skillfully weaved tale of forbidden love between Rose and William, and Giovanni and Chiarra. The story is very well researched and I enjoyed the historical revelation of the historical art piece. Really enjoyed this immersive read.
Mrgaux DeRoux
The Lost Diary of Venice is a seamless story - one in present day Connecticut and the other 5 centuries prior during the Renaissance period in Venice. This skillfully weaved tale of forbidden love between Rose and William, and Giovanni and Chiarra. The story is very well researched and I enjoyed the historical revelation of the historical art piece. Really enjoyed this immersive read.
May 4, 2020
This book had everything I thought I wanted: a rare book restorer, a secret text, flashbacks to Renaissance era Venice, multiple romances. Unfortunately, it fell flat for me. I couldn't connect with the characters, and found most of their behavior to be wildly dramatic and overly emotional. Rose is book shop owner and rare book restorer and embarks on a project with William, who finds a secret diary in his grandmother's attic. The diary is more of a treatise on Renaissance art in Venice and is written by Giovanni Lomazzo, whose story we see in alternating chapters.
The writing is very lush and descriptive, which I enjoyed. Venice is one of my favorite cities and is full of macabre beauty which I feel the author captured. However, the descriptions of art often distracted from moving the story forward. There were many characters and subplots that I found to be a bit unnecessary, or came too late in the story to make an impact. The author's portrayal of anti-semitism in Venice was very interesting, but I felt it didn't start to gain traction until the last third of the novel. I would have liked this to be explored more.
My main gripe is how inappropriate Rose and William's relationship was. We're told his wife previously had an affair, I guess to make their behavior "okay" in the reader's mind? I did not feel that way. Both Rose/William and Giovanni/Chiara had "instant love" that can work in a romance novel, but didn't work (for me) in a more plot-based fiction piece.
While the setting and the story had potential, it gets muddled with overly descriptive passages and unrealistic relationships.
Thank you to Ballantine Books and Netgalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
The writing is very lush and descriptive, which I enjoyed. Venice is one of my favorite cities and is full of macabre beauty which I feel the author captured. However, the descriptions of art often distracted from moving the story forward. There were many characters and subplots that I found to be a bit unnecessary, or came too late in the story to make an impact. The author's portrayal of anti-semitism in Venice was very interesting, but I felt it didn't start to gain traction until the last third of the novel. I would have liked this to be explored more.
My main gripe is how inappropriate Rose and William's relationship was. We're told his wife previously had an affair, I guess to make their behavior "okay" in the reader's mind? I did not feel that way. Both Rose/William and Giovanni/Chiara had "instant love" that can work in a romance novel, but didn't work (for me) in a more plot-based fiction piece.
While the setting and the story had potential, it gets muddled with overly descriptive passages and unrealistic relationships.
Thank you to Ballantine Books and Netgalley for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2020
Reviewed for
Wit and Sin
Rose Newlin is a book restorer in a small college town whose life has been in stasis after the death of her father. But when William Lomazzo, an artist who Rose is instantly attracted to, brings in a sixteenth century palimpsest for restoration Rose finds her spark again. The treatise on art that’s the primary text is fascinating in its own right, but it’s the sketches and writings that had been scraped away underneath that truly capture William and Rose’s attention. As Rose works on the book, she and William are drawn to one another. But William is married and struggling with his troubled marriage. Past and present start to bleed together as they uncover a tale of forbidden love…
In the sixteenth century, Giovanni Lomazzo has already lost his wife and son. Now he’s losing his sight and despair is taking hold of him. He’s been tasked with one last commission: a portrait of a courtesan who takes his breath away. There’s more to Chiara than meets the eye and as she and Gio are drawn toward each other, the threat of what happens if they are discovered becomes more and more of a possibility…
The Lost Diary of Venice is a bittersweet tale. Margaux DeRoux weaves together two love stories, one set in the present and one set in a sixteenth century Venice on the cusp of war with the Ottoman empire.
Ms. DeRoux brings Venice to life quite well. The gorgeous clothing and scenery we like to envision is there, but also the darker elements. Antisemitism, sexism, religious zealotry, harsh conditions, and more aren’t overlooked and are, in fact, major elements of the story. Gio is the most well-drawn of all the main characters; an artist on the cusp of losing his sight who finds love when he’s close to giving up hope. I wish his relationships with secondary characters had been better fleshed out because it would have made the world stronger and the story richer. And I desperately wish we’d had more than brief moments in Chiara’s point of view. She’s hands-down the most fascinating character in the book, lovely and intelligent, bold and secretive. She’s a mystery in many ways throughout the book and as the pieces come together I wish we got to see her inner thoughts and feelings more. It’s a case of missed opportunity, for as Chiara’s past is revealed I found I could read a whole book just about her. The love story between Chiara and Gio is one of stolen moments and it’s beautiful and sad. Perhaps if the book were solely set in the sixteenth century the characters and the background scenes involving the battle over control of Cyprus would have had more depth, making the story go from good to great.
The modern-day storyline is where I struggled the most with The Lost Diary of Venice . I enjoyed the bits of the story where Rose was working on the restoration of the palimpsest and found those interesting. But the attraction between Rose and William never lived up to its potential, and not just because William was married. William and Rose’s love story is set up as a parallel of Gio and Chiara’s and it just doesn’t work. Rose and William aren’t as well drawn as their historical counterparts and their parts of the book felt flat to me. I couldn’t get emotionally invested in the modern day storyline so the book dragged in parts because of that. Still, though The Lost Diary of Venice takes a while to build steam, once it does it’s an engaging read. I had mixed feelings when I finished the book but the potential was there and I would be interested in reading more of Ms. DeRoux’s work.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Rose Newlin is a book restorer in a small college town whose life has been in stasis after the death of her father. But when William Lomazzo, an artist who Rose is instantly attracted to, brings in a sixteenth century palimpsest for restoration Rose finds her spark again. The treatise on art that’s the primary text is fascinating in its own right, but it’s the sketches and writings that had been scraped away underneath that truly capture William and Rose’s attention. As Rose works on the book, she and William are drawn to one another. But William is married and struggling with his troubled marriage. Past and present start to bleed together as they uncover a tale of forbidden love…
In the sixteenth century, Giovanni Lomazzo has already lost his wife and son. Now he’s losing his sight and despair is taking hold of him. He’s been tasked with one last commission: a portrait of a courtesan who takes his breath away. There’s more to Chiara than meets the eye and as she and Gio are drawn toward each other, the threat of what happens if they are discovered becomes more and more of a possibility…
The Lost Diary of Venice is a bittersweet tale. Margaux DeRoux weaves together two love stories, one set in the present and one set in a sixteenth century Venice on the cusp of war with the Ottoman empire.
Ms. DeRoux brings Venice to life quite well. The gorgeous clothing and scenery we like to envision is there, but also the darker elements. Antisemitism, sexism, religious zealotry, harsh conditions, and more aren’t overlooked and are, in fact, major elements of the story. Gio is the most well-drawn of all the main characters; an artist on the cusp of losing his sight who finds love when he’s close to giving up hope. I wish his relationships with secondary characters had been better fleshed out because it would have made the world stronger and the story richer. And I desperately wish we’d had more than brief moments in Chiara’s point of view. She’s hands-down the most fascinating character in the book, lovely and intelligent, bold and secretive. She’s a mystery in many ways throughout the book and as the pieces come together I wish we got to see her inner thoughts and feelings more. It’s a case of missed opportunity, for as Chiara’s past is revealed I found I could read a whole book just about her. The love story between Chiara and Gio is one of stolen moments and it’s beautiful and sad. Perhaps if the book were solely set in the sixteenth century the characters and the background scenes involving the battle over control of Cyprus would have had more depth, making the story go from good to great.
The modern-day storyline is where I struggled the most with The Lost Diary of Venice . I enjoyed the bits of the story where Rose was working on the restoration of the palimpsest and found those interesting. But the attraction between Rose and William never lived up to its potential, and not just because William was married. William and Rose’s love story is set up as a parallel of Gio and Chiara’s and it just doesn’t work. Rose and William aren’t as well drawn as their historical counterparts and their parts of the book felt flat to me. I couldn’t get emotionally invested in the modern day storyline so the book dragged in parts because of that. Still, though The Lost Diary of Venice takes a while to build steam, once it does it’s an engaging read. I had mixed feelings when I finished the book but the potential was there and I would be interested in reading more of Ms. DeRoux’s work.
FTC Disclosure: I received this book for free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
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May 30, 2020I am in the minority here, it seems. Unfortunately, I had a very difficult time connecting to this story. I think the overall concept is great, but I struggled with the pace of the book and just could not make a connection to the characters. This was a DNF for me. I stopped and started and stopped and started several times before finally realizing this was not the book for me. I think many readers will enjoy it; it just wasn't a hit for me.
That said, the cover is GORGEOUS and the overall idea is intriguing.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishers for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
That said, the cover is GORGEOUS and the overall idea is intriguing.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House Publishers for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
March 16, 2022
I will start by saying this isn't the normal type of genre that I would chose to read. However, it was chosen for a book club I have started and being an eclectic reader I thought I would give it a go. I must admit it took me a while to get into as I was very confused about what was happening where until I realised each chapter alternated between present day and the 1570's. Once I had worked this out it became more enjoyable. I enjoyed reading the present day storyline more than the 1570's but I did also enjoy the historical aspect and the authors notes at the end were also quite intriguing. The book was well written and focuses on 2 forbidden romances, one in present day between a married artist William and a single book shop owner Rose and the other between Giovanna an artist and Chiara a courtesan. Giovanna's forbidden love becomes mirrored by Rose's and the storylines intertwine perfectly. The characters were well defined and realistic. I was invested in Rose, Giovanna and Chiara but thoroughly disliked William after he treated Rose. There was also a bombshell dropped in which was surprising and unexpected. Overall an intriguing historical romance that I would give a rating of 4/5.
June 15, 2020
A picturesque novel of two love stories in two different time periods.
William meets Rose when he brings a book to her to be restored. That book forms a bond between the two and illustrates a forbidden love between a brilliant artist and his muse.
The Pros:
The book is well written and paints a unique picture of love between the characters.
Parts of the story are historically accurate.
The ending tied up the tale nicely.
The Cons:
The story of the war going on in the background is a little hard to follow.
https://medium.com/@AndiLutz/1569bdfe...
William meets Rose when he brings a book to her to be restored. That book forms a bond between the two and illustrates a forbidden love between a brilliant artist and his muse.
The Pros:
The book is well written and paints a unique picture of love between the characters.
Parts of the story are historically accurate.
The ending tied up the tale nicely.
The Cons:
The story of the war going on in the background is a little hard to follow.
https://medium.com/@AndiLutz/1569bdfe...
March 1, 2020
The Lost Diary of Venice by Margaux DeRoux is an excellent dual timeline historical fiction that alternates between current day Connecticut and Venice during the Renaissance period (around 500 years prior) during a time of unrest.
I loved this book for several reasons:
1. I love the flowery, descriptive, and beautifully placed prose that gave me the ability to actually feel as if I was right there with the characters in both time periods. The imagery that was created for me was breathtaking.
2. I loved the unique storyline, time period, and location. Not very many books cover Venice at this time (at least that I have read). This was the initial draw for me to want to delve into this book.
3. Yes, this is a dual timeline, however despite the half century and continental difference, I found so many similarities between the two couples: their difficult circumstances, their sacrifices, the emotional roller coasters, the attraction and passion all experienced...these facts helped tie each set of characters and stories together.
4. The author’s ability to interweave two great storylines, add mystery, intrigue, and moments of unrest, romance, and tie them together for a satisfying and appropriate ending is most definitely impressive.
I found that it didn’t matter if I was reading between Rose/William/Lucas or Chiari/Gio, I found that either story elicited interest, sadness, happiness, and frustration. I wanted the “bad guys” to get what was well-deserved, and I wanted at least a somewhat satisfy ending. I truly did like Rose and I wanted for her to find her place in this world. I really felt that the author did a great job creating those endings for me as the reader, and I am impressed that a story this intricate could keep me enraptured throughout. Very impressive.
This is a great book that held my attention from beginning to end.
5/5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Random House/Ballantine Books for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon and B&N accounts upon publication.
I loved this book for several reasons:
1. I love the flowery, descriptive, and beautifully placed prose that gave me the ability to actually feel as if I was right there with the characters in both time periods. The imagery that was created for me was breathtaking.
2. I loved the unique storyline, time period, and location. Not very many books cover Venice at this time (at least that I have read). This was the initial draw for me to want to delve into this book.
3. Yes, this is a dual timeline, however despite the half century and continental difference, I found so many similarities between the two couples: their difficult circumstances, their sacrifices, the emotional roller coasters, the attraction and passion all experienced...these facts helped tie each set of characters and stories together.
4. The author’s ability to interweave two great storylines, add mystery, intrigue, and moments of unrest, romance, and tie them together for a satisfying and appropriate ending is most definitely impressive.
I found that it didn’t matter if I was reading between Rose/William/Lucas or Chiari/Gio, I found that either story elicited interest, sadness, happiness, and frustration. I wanted the “bad guys” to get what was well-deserved, and I wanted at least a somewhat satisfy ending. I truly did like Rose and I wanted for her to find her place in this world. I really felt that the author did a great job creating those endings for me as the reader, and I am impressed that a story this intricate could keep me enraptured throughout. Very impressive.
This is a great book that held my attention from beginning to end.
5/5 stars
Thank you NetGalley and Random House/Ballantine Books for this ARC and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon and B&N accounts upon publication.
January 13, 2022
I can't tell if this was supposed to be historical fiction or if the romances were being emphasized instead.
This book was a struggle to get through. Chiara and Gio are the couple from the 1570s, and then there's Rose and William in present day. I liked Chiara and Gio, but the way their relationship ended was dull to me. It was a huge buildup to a complete blow-off. Really disappointing.
Rose was one of the most annoying characters I've ever had the displeasure of reading about. Books are her whole personality, and as someone who reads a lot, it really says something that I find it annoying. She and William have this flirtation, but suddenly, Rose can't stop thinking about him. It ultimately doesn't work out, and Rose is constantly wondering if William felt the same way as her. It was a flirtation. It was not a relationship. And of course, there's Lucas, the second love interest who is introduced. He would've been better as the distraction as Rose found her way to William, but instead Rose and Lucas ended up together, begging the question, Why tf were Rose and William even flirting in the first place? Rose and William are constantly detailing how very attracted they are to each other, only for nothing to come from it.
Chiara was the saving grace of this story. She was sophisticated and complicated. I liked her, yet her story abruptly ended.
This was not a good read for me.
This book was a struggle to get through. Chiara and Gio are the couple from the 1570s, and then there's Rose and William in present day. I liked Chiara and Gio, but the way their relationship ended was dull to me. It was a huge buildup to a complete blow-off. Really disappointing.
Rose was one of the most annoying characters I've ever had the displeasure of reading about. Books are her whole personality, and as someone who reads a lot, it really says something that I find it annoying. She and William have this flirtation, but suddenly, Rose can't stop thinking about him. It ultimately doesn't work out, and Rose is constantly wondering if William felt the same way as her. It was a flirtation. It was not a relationship. And of course, there's Lucas, the second love interest who is introduced. He would've been better as the distraction as Rose found her way to William, but instead Rose and Lucas ended up together, begging the question, Why tf were Rose and William even flirting in the first place? Rose and William are constantly detailing how very attracted they are to each other, only for nothing to come from it.
Chiara was the saving grace of this story. She was sophisticated and complicated. I liked her, yet her story abruptly ended.
This was not a good read for me.
May 24, 2020
This book just did not do it for me. The premise was promising: a modern-day couple, William and Rose, uncover a palimpsest of a Renaissance Venetian artist's diary, which focuses on a relationship between the artist and courtesan, while in the modern world, William and Rose deal with their own budding relationship. But the story was so-so and I just was not very touched either by the characters or their stories.
The writing was beautiful -- poetic and vibrant. The author is clearly trying to "paint" the scenery of Renaissance Italy in the reader's mind, and the brushstrokes are vivid and detailed. But I felt that the description was often overly florid and just too much, taking center stage rather than the plot, which was thin, in both time zones. They dealt with, basically, two love stories fraught with difficulties. The modern story was rife with lots of "his fingers brushed her arm sending chills up her spine" sort of moments, which wore thin on me after a while. The Renaissance story is slightly more interesting, with political intrigue, the threat of a looming war, plus a religious-zealot villain.
The writing was beautiful -- poetic and vibrant. The author is clearly trying to "paint" the scenery of Renaissance Italy in the reader's mind, and the brushstrokes are vivid and detailed. But I felt that the description was often overly florid and just too much, taking center stage rather than the plot, which was thin, in both time zones. They dealt with, basically, two love stories fraught with difficulties. The modern story was rife with lots of "his fingers brushed her arm sending chills up her spine" sort of moments, which wore thin on me after a while. The Renaissance story is slightly more interesting, with political intrigue, the threat of a looming war, plus a religious-zealot villain.
June 11, 2020
It did take a little while to get into this story but then I was gripped and just had to find out what happened. The timelines are linked by the discovery of the diary. There were many detailed descriptions of the scenes, whether it was the tools Rose used for her restorative work or the sights and sounds of Venice. The tension was palpable as the build up to the sea battle was described. Some of the events were historically accurate and these were woven successfully into the story and the affect it had on the fictional characters. Giovanni Lomazzo was the artist from the 16th century and was losing his sight. He was smitten by Chiara, the courtesan of an important man, Venier. Rose, in the present day, was working on the project for William, also an artist. They felt a special connection but William was married with children. There was so much to this story and it will be one that I will remember for a long time. I received a copy and have voluntarily reviewed it. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
July 27, 2023
"I find comfort in imagining that long after I am gone to dust, I may yet remain connected to every man who reads what I have written."
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Giovanni is a painter in Renaissance Italy who has been commissioned to paint an illustrious courtesan favored by one of the most powerful men in Venice. Giovanni has a secret, he is losing his sight. He is drawn to courtesan at first sight and they quickly fall for one another even though such a pairing would mean the death of both of them. The two fight to be together amidst the backdrop of war between the Venetians and the Ottomans, a time that is fraught with religious tension. This story comes to light as a book restorer is restoring a manuscript Giovanni left behind. It has been passed through the generations of the family and has landed with a man who is also a painter.
Ok, this one sat in my Netgalley queue for way too long! It wasn't until I came across a copy in the bookstore that I double checked and realized I already had it available to me. It just goes to show, books come to you in their own time. I generally like a dual timeline historical fiction novel but in this case I would have much prefered just the Renaissance time period. The characters and backdrop were so engrossing. When I found myself in present time, I was a little bored by Rose and annoyed by the married man flirting with her. I get the theme of star-crossed lovers but felt like it diminished the beautiful story in Italy. The brutality and hypocrisy of the Christians of the time was heartbreaking to read.
Read this one if you liked The Scribe of Siena.
Thanks to Ballantine Books for gifted access via Netgalley. All opinions above are my own. Apologies for taking so long to get to it!
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Giovanni is a painter in Renaissance Italy who has been commissioned to paint an illustrious courtesan favored by one of the most powerful men in Venice. Giovanni has a secret, he is losing his sight. He is drawn to courtesan at first sight and they quickly fall for one another even though such a pairing would mean the death of both of them. The two fight to be together amidst the backdrop of war between the Venetians and the Ottomans, a time that is fraught with religious tension. This story comes to light as a book restorer is restoring a manuscript Giovanni left behind. It has been passed through the generations of the family and has landed with a man who is also a painter.
Ok, this one sat in my Netgalley queue for way too long! It wasn't until I came across a copy in the bookstore that I double checked and realized I already had it available to me. It just goes to show, books come to you in their own time. I generally like a dual timeline historical fiction novel but in this case I would have much prefered just the Renaissance time period. The characters and backdrop were so engrossing. When I found myself in present time, I was a little bored by Rose and annoyed by the married man flirting with her. I get the theme of star-crossed lovers but felt like it diminished the beautiful story in Italy. The brutality and hypocrisy of the Christians of the time was heartbreaking to read.
Read this one if you liked The Scribe of Siena.
Thanks to Ballantine Books for gifted access via Netgalley. All opinions above are my own. Apologies for taking so long to get to it!
May 29, 2020
Rose enjoys her quiet life at the book shop, although still grieving the death of her father. A handsome man comes in from the rain with an unexpected package, he need Rose to restore it if possible? Although he wants to be kept up to date of her progress and findings. She cannot wait to dive into what appears to be a very old diary.
As she starts doing her work, she realizes it has areas that were scrapped away and that it looks like a dairy as well as a guide to painting. She can pick out words here and there; shadow, light and whatnot but she has to send it off for translation. She turns a page, and uncovers a portrait of a beautiful woman. Who is she? It doesn't appear as this was part of the original book, but stuck between the pages. For as much as she was trying to put off contacting William, she must now!
Giovanni is a portrait artist, who has just been commission to paint a beautiful woman. During this Renaissance era, they are on the brink of war with the Ottoman Fleet and Giovanni, himself is running out of time. Can he capture this beautiful woman, in all her glory? Her personality and the secrets she holds? Will the others be able to see what he can see when he is done?
As the translations come back, piece by piece, Rose and William are astonished to learn all that was happening to Giovanni and at times it adds more questions than answers. They hold a powerful book in their hands, and cannot wait to find out the truth of everything hidden within its pages.
A very well written novel! I really enjoyed how the two storylines were woven together and what the diary brought forth in the truth of the matter of things, for the characters. Thank you to Goodreads, and Ballantine Books for the arc.
As she starts doing her work, she realizes it has areas that were scrapped away and that it looks like a dairy as well as a guide to painting. She can pick out words here and there; shadow, light and whatnot but she has to send it off for translation. She turns a page, and uncovers a portrait of a beautiful woman. Who is she? It doesn't appear as this was part of the original book, but stuck between the pages. For as much as she was trying to put off contacting William, she must now!
Giovanni is a portrait artist, who has just been commission to paint a beautiful woman. During this Renaissance era, they are on the brink of war with the Ottoman Fleet and Giovanni, himself is running out of time. Can he capture this beautiful woman, in all her glory? Her personality and the secrets she holds? Will the others be able to see what he can see when he is done?
As the translations come back, piece by piece, Rose and William are astonished to learn all that was happening to Giovanni and at times it adds more questions than answers. They hold a powerful book in their hands, and cannot wait to find out the truth of everything hidden within its pages.
A very well written novel! I really enjoyed how the two storylines were woven together and what the diary brought forth in the truth of the matter of things, for the characters. Thank you to Goodreads, and Ballantine Books for the arc.
June 8, 2020
This book is uniquely intriguing in which it utilizes two timelines, one from the past and one from the present. In the present, the book narrates the story of Rose, a young woman who lives in Connecticut who dedicates her time to restore antique books. Her work has been a form of escape ever since an illness took her father. One day she meets William Lomazzo, a painter who carries with him a piece of art from the 16th century in perfect condition. Rose identifies the pages of the palimpsest and immediately starts the restoration process. The other timeline is set during the Renaissance Era in Venice, Giovanni Lomazzo is an artist who struggles to earn a living from creating art. However, a possible war against the Ottomans is looming, so the military presence has alarmed the young artist. One day he is commissioned to paint the adorable courtesan of one of the most respected commanders. Giovanni is amazed at her beauty, it is almost impossible to stop the vivid attraction he feels for her. It is interesting how the author develops the two stories since it demonstrates the complications of the two time periods. Rose's passion for discovering the contents of the palimpsest makes this a magnificent book. Rose and William exchange experiences and knowledge, which makes their friendship very enjoyable. I loved Giovanni's personality because he is an artist who does not pay attention to people's prejudices. He is very observant and loves to draw his own conclusions. It is a very well written book, I loved the classical music references, I felt completely immersed in this story that I couldn´t stop reading it until the end. Amazing book Margaux Deroux! I thank NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine for providing me with a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review.
July 2, 2020
*I received a copy of this book through LibraryThing Early Reviewers.*
This novel weaves together two love stories, one set in the contemporary world and another set in Renaissance Venice. I actually liked the parts set in the present more, with the details about book restoration and the romantic choice Rose has to face. I found the parts set in the past, with an artist slowly going blind and an enemy fleet slowly approaching Venice, somewhat sad. I will give the author credit for showcasing the less glamorous parts of Renaissance Italy - the creation of a Jewish Ghetto in Venice, the violence women were vulnerable to, and the constraints people lived within. Overall, a fascinating world to explore through this book and now I'm tempted to pick up a couple of artists' biographies.
This novel weaves together two love stories, one set in the contemporary world and another set in Renaissance Venice. I actually liked the parts set in the present more, with the details about book restoration and the romantic choice Rose has to face. I found the parts set in the past, with an artist slowly going blind and an enemy fleet slowly approaching Venice, somewhat sad. I will give the author credit for showcasing the less glamorous parts of Renaissance Italy - the creation of a Jewish Ghetto in Venice, the violence women were vulnerable to, and the constraints people lived within. Overall, a fascinating world to explore through this book and now I'm tempted to pick up a couple of artists' biographies.
July 14, 2021
The author's debut novel, paints a picture of sixteenth - century Venice; spinning a tale of forbidden love, a diary that stood the years of time of Giovanni Lomazzo and Sebastiano Venier's life in Venice to present day when William Lomazzo, an artist presented the diary to Rose Newlin, an art and book restorer.
When Rose and William met there was a special attraction between the two of them. It was not to be.
Rose found other avenues of art to pursue with the help of Lucas a special friend.
Reading it was like a dreamy fairy tale
I won this free book from Ballantine Books
When Rose and William met there was a special attraction between the two of them. It was not to be.
Rose found other avenues of art to pursue with the help of Lucas a special friend.
Reading it was like a dreamy fairy tale
I won this free book from Ballantine Books
March 21, 2020
The cover is what drew me to this book. It has dual time lines and both stories kinda deal with people in impossible relationships. I found the book interesting, I felt a bit sad for Rose. Historical fiction fans will enjoy this book
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the early copy
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the early copy
February 17, 2020
To me this was a page turner. I could not put it down...and I learned historical facts I had not known. It is descriptive and fast paced. I was invested in the characters, and was taken by surprise several times, and I like that. It was not predictable. Very satisfying read. I want to re-read this one. I don't usually feel that way.
February 17, 2020
Beautifully descriptive, intriguing and rememberable. A great historical romance that brings you along with the characters. A fantastic story about love that spans between time.
*I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. *
*I received this book free from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. *
May 13, 2020
The Lost Diary of Venice
Being from Connecticut I can picture Rose’s book restoration shop to be in the heart of our antique valley in the neighboring towns of Southbury and Woodbury. After reading more, I picture this taking place in New Haven since the author hints at an Ivy. However, New Haven is not quaint and definitely not a book restoration town.
I felt like this story had so much promise, but it just didn’t come to fruition or make sense like I wanted it to. I love dual timeline stories. However, I always feel like one is more developed than another. In this one, you have present day with Rose and William. Sometimes there’s a Sarah, Joan, or Lucas thrown in there but they’re easy to keep track of. In 1571, you have Gio, Chiara, Aurelio, Venier, Corvino, Crow. Or is Crow another name for Corvino? It was incredibly difficult to keep the past in check without writing it down.
The author would describe Corvino and then say crow and then use action words to describe what Crow was doing and it was Corvino. It was just too much in a short span of time. There were so many things going on in the past and it just didn’t work for me as a reader.
By the time Sarah and William finally act on their feelings it is 75% into the book, but Sarah has also flirted with Lucas and I truly felt like there was something there. There was romance, art, Italy... what more could you want? It felt like there wasn’t anything else the author could have done, but done so much more at the same time. I wish the 1571 timeline was refined and cleaned up better.
Being from Connecticut I can picture Rose’s book restoration shop to be in the heart of our antique valley in the neighboring towns of Southbury and Woodbury. After reading more, I picture this taking place in New Haven since the author hints at an Ivy. However, New Haven is not quaint and definitely not a book restoration town.
I felt like this story had so much promise, but it just didn’t come to fruition or make sense like I wanted it to. I love dual timeline stories. However, I always feel like one is more developed than another. In this one, you have present day with Rose and William. Sometimes there’s a Sarah, Joan, or Lucas thrown in there but they’re easy to keep track of. In 1571, you have Gio, Chiara, Aurelio, Venier, Corvino, Crow. Or is Crow another name for Corvino? It was incredibly difficult to keep the past in check without writing it down.
The author would describe Corvino and then say crow and then use action words to describe what Crow was doing and it was Corvino. It was just too much in a short span of time. There were so many things going on in the past and it just didn’t work for me as a reader.
By the time Sarah and William finally act on their feelings it is 75% into the book, but Sarah has also flirted with Lucas and I truly felt like there was something there. There was romance, art, Italy... what more could you want? It felt like there wasn’t anything else the author could have done, but done so much more at the same time. I wish the 1571 timeline was refined and cleaned up better.
April 27, 2020
Thank you NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read and review this book.
If you are looking for a elegantly written romance, then this certainly is the book for you.
This book takes place in Venice in the 1500's and in modern day Connecticut. If you are a reader who enjoys reading 2 tales in one, than this is the book for you.
I have to admit that I found myself using the dictionary much more than usual reading this historical fiction... which certainly is a good thing. It certainly makes a book much more interesting when there is much to be learned from the words that are written.
Many surprises are to be found between these pages, if you are looking for a Historical Romance that will both entertain and educate you, than this certainly is one that you want to pick up.
If you are looking for a elegantly written romance, then this certainly is the book for you.
This book takes place in Venice in the 1500's and in modern day Connecticut. If you are a reader who enjoys reading 2 tales in one, than this is the book for you.
I have to admit that I found myself using the dictionary much more than usual reading this historical fiction... which certainly is a good thing. It certainly makes a book much more interesting when there is much to be learned from the words that are written.
Many surprises are to be found between these pages, if you are looking for a Historical Romance that will both entertain and educate you, than this certainly is one that you want to pick up.
June 3, 2021
I found this book just by searching Venice on my kobo. Wow - a great find! Fascinating historical story, good dual plots, and gorgeous language. Leans romantic though not a genre romance FYI.
February 24, 2021
I received a complimentary print copy of this book from the publisher via LibraryThing in exchange for an unbiased review.
This book chronicles two forbidden love stories separated by many years but connected by one artistic legacy. The story is told through Alternating time lines from Late Renaissance in Venice, Italy and present day Connecticut.
Rose is a highly educated and skilled book restorer in Connecticut. Since her father died she manages the book store on the university campus. Being an introvert, Rose enjoyed the solitude of working in the quiet bookstore. She had her restoration studio in the back room which she used for her special projects.
A unique document was presented to Rose one day when struggling painter William Lomazzo enters her bookstore with a rare palimpsest. He discovered that it belonged to one of his ancestors, Giovanni Lomazzo, who was also an accomplished artist in Venice, Italy. William is married to Sara with two daughters who recently moved to the area in an attempt to work on their marriage following her affair with a work colleague at the law firm. Likewise, Giovanni is commissioned to paint a portrait of Charia, the courtesan of Venier, an influential men soon to be named an admiral. Giovanni had lost his wife and baby son during childbirth and had never remarried.
Despite the difference in time periods, both men are hopelessly drawn to a woman who would definitely complicate their lives. The dreams and desires of the past seem to be captured in this palimpsest that Rose has been painstakingly translating and uncovering the layers which hide a deeper story. William and Rose become very invested in uncovering the secrets of the his ancestry. The book seems to relay a secret relationship that developed between Gio and Charia during their painting sessions.
There is a thread which strings the past to the present in this touching novel.
This book chronicles two forbidden love stories separated by many years but connected by one artistic legacy. The story is told through Alternating time lines from Late Renaissance in Venice, Italy and present day Connecticut.
Rose is a highly educated and skilled book restorer in Connecticut. Since her father died she manages the book store on the university campus. Being an introvert, Rose enjoyed the solitude of working in the quiet bookstore. She had her restoration studio in the back room which she used for her special projects.
A unique document was presented to Rose one day when struggling painter William Lomazzo enters her bookstore with a rare palimpsest. He discovered that it belonged to one of his ancestors, Giovanni Lomazzo, who was also an accomplished artist in Venice, Italy. William is married to Sara with two daughters who recently moved to the area in an attempt to work on their marriage following her affair with a work colleague at the law firm. Likewise, Giovanni is commissioned to paint a portrait of Charia, the courtesan of Venier, an influential men soon to be named an admiral. Giovanni had lost his wife and baby son during childbirth and had never remarried.
Despite the difference in time periods, both men are hopelessly drawn to a woman who would definitely complicate their lives. The dreams and desires of the past seem to be captured in this palimpsest that Rose has been painstakingly translating and uncovering the layers which hide a deeper story. William and Rose become very invested in uncovering the secrets of the his ancestry. The book seems to relay a secret relationship that developed between Gio and Charia during their painting sessions.
There is a thread which strings the past to the present in this touching novel.
August 14, 2021
For me it was like that first sip of coffee in the morning. You close your eyes for one second, relish the flavor and with an expelled breath you make that sound, you know the one, Ahhhhhh, whether it’s verbal or mental it’s there. What am I talking about? The first paragraph of this book, actually the Prologue. The writing that just made me smile and know everything was going to be better, just like my first cup of coffee. How can you not get pulled into a story that affects you like that?
That feeling held up through the entire book although I could see where it was going but I hoped for the best. First the book is two love stories centuries apart and yet seem to be similar. Ill-fated love, is there anything more dramatic or sad?
In modern times Rose Newlin, who owns a bookshop and also restores books, has a new customer. William Lomazzo, an artist, brings her the document from the 1500’s that he has discovered and so begins the modern story but most important the document and it’s mystery also brings the ancient love story of Giovanni Lomazzo and his muse
Lovely book and interesting story and from a new author who created a world in the 1500’s that came to life for me. Beautiful descriptions that obviously were well researched along with some of the people who actually existed in Venice during the 1500’s. Well done!
I won this book in a First Reads giveaway. Thank you to Ballentine Books, Penguin Random House LLC and the author Margaux DeRoux..
That feeling held up through the entire book although I could see where it was going but I hoped for the best. First the book is two love stories centuries apart and yet seem to be similar. Ill-fated love, is there anything more dramatic or sad?
In modern times Rose Newlin, who owns a bookshop and also restores books, has a new customer. William Lomazzo, an artist, brings her the document from the 1500’s that he has discovered and so begins the modern story but most important the document and it’s mystery also brings the ancient love story of Giovanni Lomazzo and his muse
Lovely book and interesting story and from a new author who created a world in the 1500’s that came to life for me. Beautiful descriptions that obviously were well researched along with some of the people who actually existed in Venice during the 1500’s. Well done!
I won this book in a First Reads giveaway. Thank you to Ballentine Books, Penguin Random House LLC and the author Margaux DeRoux..
July 9, 2022
This book was selected to fulfill several 2022 book challenge prompts one of which was to read a book about a place you’d like to visit. It’s been many years since I last was in Venice but it has remained a magical city so besides being intrigued by the book’s title, this seemed like a solid choice to read. As stated in the Note to the Reader, the book is based on an actual painter, Giovanni Lomazzo, who did write a treatise on art criticism around which the book’s fictional story of two forbidden loves: Giovanni and Chiara/ William and Rose is based. William Lomazzo brings a book discovered in a trunk in his great grandmother’s house which he is seeking to have restored since the author is a Renaissance painter who is his ancestor. Rose, a restorer, discovers the book is a palimpsest: a document written over a hidden diary purposely scrapped away. Willam and Rose have an instant attraction but he is unhappily married. Then the story of Giovanni and Chiara unfolds as the soon-to-be blind painter is asked to paint the exquisite courtesan by her patron during an eventful period when the Ottoman Empire seeks to crush Venice. Giovanni is entranced by Chiara and falls deeply in love. The forbidden love stories are intricately woven and deeply moving but because both are ensconced in reality, life intervenes. The clever ending for both couples lends a beautiful twist. Beautifully written, this was a delightful read.
October 28, 2020
Who knew? This book manages to combine my romantic side, my love of Assassin’s Creed and my obsession with historical fiction into one book!
The Lost Diary of Venice brings together two separate storylines: that of Rose, a book restorer in the present day, and the story of the book she’s working on. Rose is struggling with her attraction to William, its handsome (married!) owner. The book’s writer, Giovanni, is too: an inhabitant of 1560’s Venice, he enters a dangerous love affair with the courtesan Chiara at the onset of the Venetian-Ottoman war.
I’ll be honest: Venice was a far more interesting place to spend my time than the present day, which did break the flow of my reading. However, when I was in Venice, I was gripped: Margaret Laroux’s attention to detail and obvious love for the city bleeds through the page and makes you feel like you’re really there. There’s a constant edge of danger in every chapter- whether that’s because of Giovanni’s meetings with Chiara or the constant threat of war- and that kept me hooked.
And my attention paid off. The book is packed with several last-minute plot twists, a healthy dollop of danger and the very real prospect that life might not work out as you hope for the protagonists. The Lost Diary of Venice is a breathless romp through Venice (and also America) that, though uneven in places, it very much worth a read.
The Lost Diary of Venice brings together two separate storylines: that of Rose, a book restorer in the present day, and the story of the book she’s working on. Rose is struggling with her attraction to William, its handsome (married!) owner. The book’s writer, Giovanni, is too: an inhabitant of 1560’s Venice, he enters a dangerous love affair with the courtesan Chiara at the onset of the Venetian-Ottoman war.
I’ll be honest: Venice was a far more interesting place to spend my time than the present day, which did break the flow of my reading. However, when I was in Venice, I was gripped: Margaret Laroux’s attention to detail and obvious love for the city bleeds through the page and makes you feel like you’re really there. There’s a constant edge of danger in every chapter- whether that’s because of Giovanni’s meetings with Chiara or the constant threat of war- and that kept me hooked.
And my attention paid off. The book is packed with several last-minute plot twists, a healthy dollop of danger and the very real prospect that life might not work out as you hope for the protagonists. The Lost Diary of Venice is a breathless romp through Venice (and also America) that, though uneven in places, it very much worth a read.
July 16, 2021
I am torn between giving this novel four stars or five. I opted for five. As with most dual-timeline stories, I always find the older timelines a much better story, and in this case it is 16th century Venice which comes alive with its exotic and beautifully told story of a courtesan and the artist hired to paint her. It is a sheer delight. Although important to the unfolding drama, I found the long narratives of the 21st century timeline a bit too long-winded and intro-inspective. The parts describing the restoration and exploration of the palimpsest central to the story are wonderfully done and interesting, but the personal relationship between the two modern characters seems a little too drawn out and falls flat for me. I just wasn’t interested in them. I wanted to read more on the mysterious palimpsest. Mind you, this is not the author’s fault, but my own. Several books I’ve read lately follow this same modern/historical timeline scheme and in each of them, I found myself skimming through the modern settings to get back to enjoying the historical ones. But, any book that causes a reader to skim through the book, not from boredom, but from eager anticipation of the next page, deserves five stars, and The Lost Diary of Venice is no different. I look forward to reading more from this debut author.
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