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Star-Cross'd #1
The Master of Verona
In 1314, seventeen year old Pietro Alighieri travels to Verona with his father, the infamous poet Dante, at the invitation of its leader, the legendary Francesco “Cangrande” della Scala. A sneak attack from Padua leads Pietro into his first battle, fighting alongside the charismatic Cangrande, and into a tight friendship with Mariotto Montecchio and Antonio Capulletto. Behind the scenes, repeated attempts are made against the life of a child believed to be Cangrande’s illegitimate son and possible heir. Pietro is drawn into the web of intrigue around the child and the tension building between Mariotto and Antonio over a woman betrothed to one and in love with the other – a situation that will sever a friendship, divide a city, and ultimately lead to the events of the best known tragic romance in the world. Inspired by the plays of Shakespeare, the poetry of Dante, and the events of history, The Master of Verona is a compelling novel of politics, loyalty, conspiracy and star-crossed romance.
570 pages, Hardcover
First published July 24, 2007
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1931 people want to read
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February 8, 2024
Charles van Buren
TOP 1000 REVIEWER
Unbelievable details
Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase
The devil is in the details and at no more than 5% into the book there are some very discouraging details. At about page 6, 2% into the book, an assassin is hit with an "arrow" from a small trigger bow. Never mind that crossbow projectiles are called bolts or quarrels rather than arrows. That is minor compared to the mayhem that projectile caused in this novel: "A sharp cracking noise made Ciolo wince. An instant later the breath exploded from his body. Confused, he found himself sprawled several feet back down the hallway. Something had hit him in the chest, hit him hard enough to stun him and knock him backwards." From this description, I was expecting a blow from a flying tackle, a leaping dog, a hard punch to the body, etc. But no, all of this was caused by the small trigger bow projectile. I have never been hit with an arrow, bolt or quarrel. However I do know a little physics, a little physiology, a little about ballistics, a little about archery hunting and a little about the results from real world shootings (spent most of my adult career in law enforcement). This author has apparently watched too many bad action movies.
At about page 13, 4%, the action moves to a nighttime scene in an open air town square referred to as the market place, the civic center, the wide piazza of Verona. It is lit by torchlight. If you don't already know, torches flicker. In the outdoors they really flicker and dance with every breath of wind. I have used torches, they provide a jumping, leaping, unstable light at best. Yet in this scene our protagonists are able to see details of dress, including the distinction of colors at some little distance: "...his clothes were of expensive simplicity - a light-coloured linen shirt with a wide collar that came to two triangular points far below his neck. Over this he wore a burgundy farsetto, a leather doublet. But this was of the finest tanning, soft yet shimmery, and instead of common leather ties it bore six metal clasps down the front. His hose, too, were dark, a wine-red close to black. Tall boots reached his knees, the supple leather rolled back to create a wide double band about each calf. He wore no hat, but was crowned with a mane of chestnut hair with streaks of blond that, catching echoes of the brands, danced like fire. Yet it was his eyes that most struck Pietro. Bluer than the midday sky, sharper than a hawk's - unearthly. At their corners laughter lurked like angels at the dawn of the world.". Wow, I'm a trained observer and I'm not sure that I would have gotten all of that in daylight much less just the few moments of observation at night in the outdoors by torchlight.
Then beginning about page 14, 4%, a group is going hunting at night. One of the group is carrying a small hawk. Falconry at night? One of the hunters is tomorrow's bridegroom and this is his last hunt as a bachelor: "Hunt for what lord?' For the hart of course!" I wonder if that pun even works in Italian. Anyway the nobility ride off to hunt deer at night. Nighttime falconry after deer? These guys don't even have the means to headlight deer. At about page 19, 5%, it turns out that the man is training the hawk. At night. On a deer hunt. He must be expecting that hawk to be like the chicken hawk in the old Foghorn Leghorn cartoons.
I don't know if the author is careless, contemptuous of his readers or if he really doesn't know any better. It doesn't matter. I am disinclined to continue reading a novel with that many unbelievable details at less than 5% into the book. That 5% contains some of the most truly bad writing which I have ever encountered.
As of March 9, 2020, this book is available from Amazon through Kindle Unlimited.
TOP 1000 REVIEWER
Unbelievable details
Format: Kindle EditionVerified Purchase
The devil is in the details and at no more than 5% into the book there are some very discouraging details. At about page 6, 2% into the book, an assassin is hit with an "arrow" from a small trigger bow. Never mind that crossbow projectiles are called bolts or quarrels rather than arrows. That is minor compared to the mayhem that projectile caused in this novel: "A sharp cracking noise made Ciolo wince. An instant later the breath exploded from his body. Confused, he found himself sprawled several feet back down the hallway. Something had hit him in the chest, hit him hard enough to stun him and knock him backwards." From this description, I was expecting a blow from a flying tackle, a leaping dog, a hard punch to the body, etc. But no, all of this was caused by the small trigger bow projectile. I have never been hit with an arrow, bolt or quarrel. However I do know a little physics, a little physiology, a little about ballistics, a little about archery hunting and a little about the results from real world shootings (spent most of my adult career in law enforcement). This author has apparently watched too many bad action movies.
At about page 13, 4%, the action moves to a nighttime scene in an open air town square referred to as the market place, the civic center, the wide piazza of Verona. It is lit by torchlight. If you don't already know, torches flicker. In the outdoors they really flicker and dance with every breath of wind. I have used torches, they provide a jumping, leaping, unstable light at best. Yet in this scene our protagonists are able to see details of dress, including the distinction of colors at some little distance: "...his clothes were of expensive simplicity - a light-coloured linen shirt with a wide collar that came to two triangular points far below his neck. Over this he wore a burgundy farsetto, a leather doublet. But this was of the finest tanning, soft yet shimmery, and instead of common leather ties it bore six metal clasps down the front. His hose, too, were dark, a wine-red close to black. Tall boots reached his knees, the supple leather rolled back to create a wide double band about each calf. He wore no hat, but was crowned with a mane of chestnut hair with streaks of blond that, catching echoes of the brands, danced like fire. Yet it was his eyes that most struck Pietro. Bluer than the midday sky, sharper than a hawk's - unearthly. At their corners laughter lurked like angels at the dawn of the world.". Wow, I'm a trained observer and I'm not sure that I would have gotten all of that in daylight much less just the few moments of observation at night in the outdoors by torchlight.
Then beginning about page 14, 4%, a group is going hunting at night. One of the group is carrying a small hawk. Falconry at night? One of the hunters is tomorrow's bridegroom and this is his last hunt as a bachelor: "Hunt for what lord?' For the hart of course!" I wonder if that pun even works in Italian. Anyway the nobility ride off to hunt deer at night. Nighttime falconry after deer? These guys don't even have the means to headlight deer. At about page 19, 5%, it turns out that the man is training the hawk. At night. On a deer hunt. He must be expecting that hawk to be like the chicken hawk in the old Foghorn Leghorn cartoons.
I don't know if the author is careless, contemptuous of his readers or if he really doesn't know any better. It doesn't matter. I am disinclined to continue reading a novel with that many unbelievable details at less than 5% into the book. That 5% contains some of the most truly bad writing which I have ever encountered.
As of March 9, 2020, this book is available from Amazon through Kindle Unlimited.
April 20, 2015
A few pages into Master of Verona one of the two characters who opens the book jumps out of the path of an oncoming horde, off a bridge and feet first into a river. That's pretty much how that first chapter runs for the reader, as well - straight into it, and swept off with the current.
And the action never really lets up. Before long, the main point of view settles firmly behind the eyes of Pietro, eldest son (eldest surviving, that is) of Dante Alaghieri. (Alaghieri, the poet insists, not Alighieri: the pronunciation has a point to it.) Seventeen-year-old Pietro, his little brother Jacopo (Poco), and their illustrious father have just arrived in Verona, and almost immediately Pietro is swept from a wedding celebration into a wild ride straight into battle – his first – at the heels of Cangrande, the Scaliger, the Greyhound.
Or is he? There is a prophecy about the Greyhound, which Cangrande has grown up believing applies to him ... but ... there is another candidate. This adds a whole new layer to the story: a man's life is shaped by his belief in what his destiny is supposed to be. Change the destiny, mute it down from the phenomenal to the merely great, and there will be repercussions.
As another reviewer somewhere in there pointed out, there are a number of typos in the Kindle edition (stray apostrophes, "laying" instead of "lying") (how ironic is it that I initially misspelled "typos"?), but not so very many – not, I think, enough to turn me away from any but an otherwise very bad book. In an otherwise very good book, they are mere blips.
My familiarity with Dante is, I regret to say, mainly through second- and third-hand sources. I will certainly need to address that. It was wonderful fun reading David Blixt's version of the working poet.
It was around the time of the first battle against Padua that this began to remind me – in all good ways – of Guy Gavriel Kay's Tigana. There is something about Pietro being swept off his feet so by the charismatic and irresistible Cangrande that chimed in harmony with Devin's similar sweeping away by Alessan. Just a boy, if a rather extraordinary boy, caught up in the powerful wake of one of those men around whom history reshapes itself, a man who attracts the sort of loyalty it's hard to maintain in this age of jaded cynicism.
That's huge. Cangrande is magnificent, a man born at exactly the right time. Today … there is no one to follow with the sort of fierce devotion Cangrande inspires. Today he might begin a meteoric rise in politics, only to be brought down by an illegitimate child or a temper too fully expressed; the boundaries are more stringent today. But give the man a sword and a horse - or a wineskin and a mule - or even just give him the floor, and stand back: something spectacular is going to happen. The Scaliger in his own time and place is something glorious – a leader, the embodiment of a Cause, someone and something to fight for – and fight beside, to sacrifice for and sacrifice to, unto one's own life.
The book as a whole has a general feel which is reminiscent of Tigana. The setting of Master of Verona is, of course, Italy, in the 14th century, but there is for me a strong flavor of fantasy – it feels like as much a fantasy Italy as the Hand in Tigana. This Italy is a feral place where a poet is revered as a rock star. It is a setting of feuds and battles, swords and, if not sorcery, then soothsayers, and astrology and fate and destiny taken very, very seriously – and it's all seen largely through this young man's fresh eyes, with excitement and wonder.
There is a battle near the end of Tigana which, the first time I read it, might as well have been happening around me. My heart pounded, my breathing was short and fast, and internally I was ducking and dodging and parrying. I've never had an experience like it while reading … till now. Blixt hasn't stressed my blood pressure to quite the same levels, but the duel … Whoof.
It's clear from the flurry of words surrounding this book that it has something to do with the tale of Romeo and Juliet. This idea is a minefield, I think; like any delving into Shakespearean topics it could go drastically badly or beautifully well. Blixt already proved to me that he knows Shakespeare; I loved Her Majesty's Will as much as anything I read this year. I was inclined to trust him on this one.
I was right.
By the time a friend of Pietro reveals that his actual Christian name is Romeo (threatening his friends with death if they ever use it), the setup had seen to it that I cared about these characters and the announcement gave me a sinking feeling. No, I thought, dammit, not these guys.
And I just realized: that feeling is what I read for. That level of investment in the story and its people - that is the goal. There are lots (and lots) of bad books out there; there are plenty of mediocre books and even good books that are fun to read without engaging the emotions to any great extent. There are even quite a few books which do cause laughter and tears and all that. But this - this is near the pinnacle of the reading experience in my book (so to speak). This is being made to care, very very much indeed, about what happens to the people who live and breathe through the words - made, without ever feeling manipulated. At this level, this is pretty rare.
- - Originally Read from July 07 to 14, 2012
Reread 4/19/15, and I only feel more strongly about the book. Why I didn't continue with the series then I have no idea; I'm too easily distracted, I guess. I'll be remedying that now.
I have only two things to really add to what I said above: the Easter egg hunt for Shakespeare references is a bard-geek's delight, and I caught a few this time around that I apparently missed a few years ago.
And second: I don't think I made quite clear enough that when I compare this book to Tigana, it's one of the highest compliments I can give. Tigana was, for me, a bit life-altering. And The Master of Verona is in pretty damn near the same class. It's been a long time since I read Dorothy Dunnett's Chronicles of Lymond, but, again, there is a strong comparison to be made. Until there isn't. Because David Blixt, as evidenced in his essays, tends to ask himself if he's really that evil... and the answer is always yes.
And third (I lied): Read it.
And the action never really lets up. Before long, the main point of view settles firmly behind the eyes of Pietro, eldest son (eldest surviving, that is) of Dante Alaghieri. (Alaghieri, the poet insists, not Alighieri: the pronunciation has a point to it.) Seventeen-year-old Pietro, his little brother Jacopo (Poco), and their illustrious father have just arrived in Verona, and almost immediately Pietro is swept from a wedding celebration into a wild ride straight into battle – his first – at the heels of Cangrande, the Scaliger, the Greyhound.
Or is he? There is a prophecy about the Greyhound, which Cangrande has grown up believing applies to him ... but ... there is another candidate. This adds a whole new layer to the story: a man's life is shaped by his belief in what his destiny is supposed to be. Change the destiny, mute it down from the phenomenal to the merely great, and there will be repercussions.
As another reviewer somewhere in there pointed out, there are a number of typos in the Kindle edition (stray apostrophes, "laying" instead of "lying") (how ironic is it that I initially misspelled "typos"?), but not so very many – not, I think, enough to turn me away from any but an otherwise very bad book. In an otherwise very good book, they are mere blips.
My familiarity with Dante is, I regret to say, mainly through second- and third-hand sources. I will certainly need to address that. It was wonderful fun reading David Blixt's version of the working poet.
It was around the time of the first battle against Padua that this began to remind me – in all good ways – of Guy Gavriel Kay's Tigana. There is something about Pietro being swept off his feet so by the charismatic and irresistible Cangrande that chimed in harmony with Devin's similar sweeping away by Alessan. Just a boy, if a rather extraordinary boy, caught up in the powerful wake of one of those men around whom history reshapes itself, a man who attracts the sort of loyalty it's hard to maintain in this age of jaded cynicism.
That's huge. Cangrande is magnificent, a man born at exactly the right time. Today … there is no one to follow with the sort of fierce devotion Cangrande inspires. Today he might begin a meteoric rise in politics, only to be brought down by an illegitimate child or a temper too fully expressed; the boundaries are more stringent today. But give the man a sword and a horse - or a wineskin and a mule - or even just give him the floor, and stand back: something spectacular is going to happen. The Scaliger in his own time and place is something glorious – a leader, the embodiment of a Cause, someone and something to fight for – and fight beside, to sacrifice for and sacrifice to, unto one's own life.
The book as a whole has a general feel which is reminiscent of Tigana. The setting of Master of Verona is, of course, Italy, in the 14th century, but there is for me a strong flavor of fantasy – it feels like as much a fantasy Italy as the Hand in Tigana. This Italy is a feral place where a poet is revered as a rock star. It is a setting of feuds and battles, swords and, if not sorcery, then soothsayers, and astrology and fate and destiny taken very, very seriously – and it's all seen largely through this young man's fresh eyes, with excitement and wonder.
There is a battle near the end of Tigana which, the first time I read it, might as well have been happening around me. My heart pounded, my breathing was short and fast, and internally I was ducking and dodging and parrying. I've never had an experience like it while reading … till now. Blixt hasn't stressed my blood pressure to quite the same levels, but the duel … Whoof.
It's clear from the flurry of words surrounding this book that it has something to do with the tale of Romeo and Juliet. This idea is a minefield, I think; like any delving into Shakespearean topics it could go drastically badly or beautifully well. Blixt already proved to me that he knows Shakespeare; I loved Her Majesty's Will as much as anything I read this year. I was inclined to trust him on this one.
I was right.
By the time a friend of Pietro reveals that his actual Christian name is Romeo (threatening his friends with death if they ever use it), the setup had seen to it that I cared about these characters and the announcement gave me a sinking feeling. No, I thought, dammit, not these guys.
And I just realized: that feeling is what I read for. That level of investment in the story and its people - that is the goal. There are lots (and lots) of bad books out there; there are plenty of mediocre books and even good books that are fun to read without engaging the emotions to any great extent. There are even quite a few books which do cause laughter and tears and all that. But this - this is near the pinnacle of the reading experience in my book (so to speak). This is being made to care, very very much indeed, about what happens to the people who live and breathe through the words - made, without ever feeling manipulated. At this level, this is pretty rare.
- - Originally Read from July 07 to 14, 2012
Reread 4/19/15, and I only feel more strongly about the book. Why I didn't continue with the series then I have no idea; I'm too easily distracted, I guess. I'll be remedying that now.
I have only two things to really add to what I said above: the Easter egg hunt for Shakespeare references is a bard-geek's delight, and I caught a few this time around that I apparently missed a few years ago.
And second: I don't think I made quite clear enough that when I compare this book to Tigana, it's one of the highest compliments I can give. Tigana was, for me, a bit life-altering. And The Master of Verona is in pretty damn near the same class. It's been a long time since I read Dorothy Dunnett's Chronicles of Lymond, but, again, there is a strong comparison to be made. Until there isn't. Because David Blixt, as evidenced in his essays, tends to ask himself if he's really that evil... and the answer is always yes.
And third (I lied): Read it.
October 15, 2013
This novel was quite the old-fashioned swashbuckler; I enjoyed this romp very much. Taking place at the juncture of the Italian Middle Ages/Renaissance, this was the Age of Dante. The 'Master of Verona' is an Italian nobleman/warrior/hero of that period with the nickname, Cangrande. The protagonist is Pietro Alighieri [called Alaghieri in the novel], the oldest living son of the poet. Dante has been exiled from his native Florence and is now living in Verona. This is the Veronese pronunciation of the surname. Warfare among the northern Italian city-states is going on, notably Verona against Padua and Vicenza. Pietro is injured badly in his first battle and walks with a limp ever after, and he does make two dear friends, Antonio and Mariotto; the three are so close, they are soon dubbed The Triumvirate.
Although the novel starts slowly, the excitement in the book builds--battles, a duel on horseback between Pietro and Marsilio. Pietro is fighting for his friend Antonio's honor. This is the best description of a duel I've ever read; I was exclaiming all through like the two combatants were real people. Antonio's betrothed has eloped with Mariotto. Of course, this breakes up the friendship. There is also an exciting horserace and footrace. Cangrande's heir-to-be, the toddler Cesco, is first nearly kidnapped and escapes being killed. The boy is then kidnapped successfully and there is great excitement in the search, which Pietro leads.
The plot and subplots were very intricate. The author threw in many twists and turns, even some big surprises I didn't see coming. The author cleverly worked in his reimaginings of various characters from Shakespeare, whom you'll probably recognize. The characterizations were rich, especially that of Pietro. Cangrande was larger-than-life. The author called up a vivid evocation of that historical period. I was sorry to see the book end. Even though the book was nearly 600 pages, I was totally engrossed. The writing and dialogue were that good. I'm glad there is a sequel.
Most highly recommended!
Although the novel starts slowly, the excitement in the book builds--battles, a duel on horseback between Pietro and Marsilio. Pietro is fighting for his friend Antonio's honor. This is the best description of a duel I've ever read; I was exclaiming all through like the two combatants were real people. Antonio's betrothed has eloped with Mariotto. Of course, this breakes up the friendship. There is also an exciting horserace and footrace. Cangrande's heir-to-be, the toddler Cesco, is first nearly kidnapped and escapes being killed. The boy is then kidnapped successfully and there is great excitement in the search, which Pietro leads.
The plot and subplots were very intricate. The author threw in many twists and turns, even some big surprises I didn't see coming. The author cleverly worked in his reimaginings of various characters from Shakespeare, whom you'll probably recognize. The characterizations were rich, especially that of Pietro. Cangrande was larger-than-life. The author called up a vivid evocation of that historical period. I was sorry to see the book end. Even though the book was nearly 600 pages, I was totally engrossed. The writing and dialogue were that good. I'm glad there is a sequel.
Most highly recommended!
June 14, 2012
The Master of Verona is the type of book that is right up my alley. I love historical fiction, especially stories about royalty and political intrigue in Medieval times. So it is no wonder that I found this book thoroughly enjoyable. David Blixt's story tells the tale of Pietro, the son of Dante Alighieri of Inferno fame, Canagrande Della Scala, the ruler of Verona, and even the beginnings of the Montague/Capulet feud. This book is filled with fascinating characters. Along with the many interesting main characters, Pietro, Cangrande, Mastino, and yes, Romeo, I especially enjoyed those of Antonia Alighieri and Katarina Della Scala. Blixt transforms these women into complex, unconventional characters which makes them stand out in the story.
The major plot line of this book is fascinating by itself, but it was the many subplots and details included in the book that also caught my attention and helped me to devour this book. The inclusion of the Montague/Capulet families and the beginning of the feud made so famous by Shakespeare in Romeo and Juliet, as well as others from Shakespeare's Italian stories is both a bonus and a delight. As are the other subplots included in the book. And I have to say, Blixt's description of life in Italy during the 1300s are beautifully done.
All in all this book is a great one by a wonderful author. I look forward to reading more of his work. I hope they are all as good as this one.
The major plot line of this book is fascinating by itself, but it was the many subplots and details included in the book that also caught my attention and helped me to devour this book. The inclusion of the Montague/Capulet families and the beginning of the feud made so famous by Shakespeare in Romeo and Juliet, as well as others from Shakespeare's Italian stories is both a bonus and a delight. As are the other subplots included in the book. And I have to say, Blixt's description of life in Italy during the 1300s are beautifully done.
All in all this book is a great one by a wonderful author. I look forward to reading more of his work. I hope they are all as good as this one.
August 1, 2019
Pietro Alaghieri (Palio) is 17 years old at the opening of this novel and definitely a boy constantly being corrected by his father, the famous poet Dante who wrote "The Inferno." But Palio will soon prove himself as a man as he inadvertently becomes involved in a battle led by "Cangrande" or Francesco della Scalla. Palio is wounded and remains lame in one leg. That, however, does not daunt Palio as he continues to repeatedly prove his fierce bravery and loyalty.
Sounds like a simple plot, right? Not at all. Words can hardly convey the depth of plot, characterization, battle scenes, political intrigue, et al contained in these amazing pages! To begin with, Palio's father has been exiled from his native Florence and his writings are considered brilliant by many but also heretical by many others, who make the sign of the evil eye when he passes. Then there is Cangrande's sister, an enigmatic woman who seems to have a very strong affect on her brother, who will later bring up a mysterious child predicted to have a formidable role in Italian politics, and who knows her brother and his secrets like no other friend or foe!
Feuding between the Northern medieval cities is a constant, with agreements and betrayals interspersed with battles described in realistic detail. Astrology is a foremost aspect in the lives of all characters, laced with the warnings of a church divided within itself. The quest for power fuels all!
Poetry and prose are aptly included, with a fascinating look at the publishing (or copying in reality) process described through the character of Palio's sister. A strong allusion to Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet is present in the war between two of Palio's friends over a woman, with a fierce battle not ending the debacle.
Finally, there's a plot conceived by two main characters that does not become clear until the end but is masterfully carried out. Who, out of the mysterious prophecy, will be the "wolf" leader bound to unite Italy and create a new destiny for this war-besieged country?
Master of Verona cannot be simply described but MUST be experienced. David Blixt is a brilliant, talented writer whose novels will be relished by all lovers of historical fiction and those who love a great story full of intelligence, wit, humor, adventure, romance, and so much more! So, well-done, David Blixt!
Sounds like a simple plot, right? Not at all. Words can hardly convey the depth of plot, characterization, battle scenes, political intrigue, et al contained in these amazing pages! To begin with, Palio's father has been exiled from his native Florence and his writings are considered brilliant by many but also heretical by many others, who make the sign of the evil eye when he passes. Then there is Cangrande's sister, an enigmatic woman who seems to have a very strong affect on her brother, who will later bring up a mysterious child predicted to have a formidable role in Italian politics, and who knows her brother and his secrets like no other friend or foe!
Feuding between the Northern medieval cities is a constant, with agreements and betrayals interspersed with battles described in realistic detail. Astrology is a foremost aspect in the lives of all characters, laced with the warnings of a church divided within itself. The quest for power fuels all!
Poetry and prose are aptly included, with a fascinating look at the publishing (or copying in reality) process described through the character of Palio's sister. A strong allusion to Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet is present in the war between two of Palio's friends over a woman, with a fierce battle not ending the debacle.
Finally, there's a plot conceived by two main characters that does not become clear until the end but is masterfully carried out. Who, out of the mysterious prophecy, will be the "wolf" leader bound to unite Italy and create a new destiny for this war-besieged country?
Master of Verona cannot be simply described but MUST be experienced. David Blixt is a brilliant, talented writer whose novels will be relished by all lovers of historical fiction and those who love a great story full of intelligence, wit, humor, adventure, romance, and so much more! So, well-done, David Blixt!
December 12, 2012
Pietro Alaghieri travels with his exiled father, Dante Alighieri, to Verona to meet the poet's new patron, Francesco "Cangrande" Della Scalla. Cangrande is rumored to be Il Vetro or the Greyhound, a man prophesied about to turn Italy on her head. Pietro, with his two new best friends, Romeo Mariotto Montecchio and Antonio Capulleto, ride out with Cangrande to battle Padua. Pietro saves Cangrande's life and becomes his right hand man and confidante. Following Cangrande on a secret mission to bring his heir to Verona, Pietro becomes intertwined in the private life of the ruler of Verona. Cesco, the boy, is raised by Cangrande's loving sister who believes in the prophecy. Pietro bonds with the boy and becomes his rescuer and champion. Pietro must also continue his battle with Padua and it's champion knight. When a peace treaty leaves his best friends rivals in love, Pietro is torn. Thought the stars may determine a man's fate, it is up to him to determine how they will guide his life.
Pietro starts out as a boy living in the shadow of his famous father and deceased elder brother. But his bravery and honor soon make a name for Pietro, who almost eclipses his father. For this story, he does. Pietro serves Cangrande, a true Renaissance man who loves battle, clever conversation, wine and women. The eclectic cast of this book is completed by a rival on the battlefield, two lovers, a heartbroken friend, a devoted sister, a brilliant poet, a doctor, a Moor and a barren wife. The plot is always thick with love, lust, honor, treachery and twists. While the book is large, the story is larger than life. This is a wonderful read!!
Pietro starts out as a boy living in the shadow of his famous father and deceased elder brother. But his bravery and honor soon make a name for Pietro, who almost eclipses his father. For this story, he does. Pietro serves Cangrande, a true Renaissance man who loves battle, clever conversation, wine and women. The eclectic cast of this book is completed by a rival on the battlefield, two lovers, a heartbroken friend, a devoted sister, a brilliant poet, a doctor, a Moor and a barren wife. The plot is always thick with love, lust, honor, treachery and twists. While the book is large, the story is larger than life. This is a wonderful read!!
May 8, 2019
Lengthy book; dense historical content- 1300's Italy; copious swords, cross-bow, horse action; extremely complicated characters; comic relief provided by Dante, not so much from his serious children; Italian family feuds based on star-crossed lovers (think Shakespeare).
Not so sure if I will follow along to next book.
Library Loan, Chicago author who gives thanks to Newberry Library, a good thing
Not so sure if I will follow along to next book.
Library Loan, Chicago author who gives thanks to Newberry Library, a good thing
December 14, 2011
When I started The Master of Verona, I had no intention of reading a 560 page book in three days. I had other things to do.
I read the book instead.
The book's scope of topics is as broad and intricate as a medieval tapestry; just when you think you've seen it all, Blixt draws your eye to a new detail as compelling as the last. There's Pietro, son of Dante, learning to become a knight under the shadow of his famous father. There's medieval Italian politics as vicious as anything you see on The Sopranos. There's great female characters like Antonia Alighieri and Katerina Della Scala using words as devastatingly as the men use swords. There's the historical figure of Cangrande attacking a neighboring city in a battle sequence as vivid as those you find in Bernard Cornwell's Sharpe books. There's a horse race that makes a NASCAR crash look tepid and a duel that only a writer who's also a fight choreographer and swordsman himself could write. Blixt also throws in a mysterious child, assassination attempts, oracular prophecies, and a villain as curiously loathsome as one from Dickens or Dumas. All of this should collapse into an unreadable mess, but Blixt's well-honed prose, characters, and narrative line turned it instead into my favorite beach book of summer 2007. Oh, and if that weren't good enough, throughout the book, you come to empathize with the fathers of both Romeo and Juliet and watch as their friendship turns to hate. I can't wait for his next book.
I read the book instead.
The book's scope of topics is as broad and intricate as a medieval tapestry; just when you think you've seen it all, Blixt draws your eye to a new detail as compelling as the last. There's Pietro, son of Dante, learning to become a knight under the shadow of his famous father. There's medieval Italian politics as vicious as anything you see on The Sopranos. There's great female characters like Antonia Alighieri and Katerina Della Scala using words as devastatingly as the men use swords. There's the historical figure of Cangrande attacking a neighboring city in a battle sequence as vivid as those you find in Bernard Cornwell's Sharpe books. There's a horse race that makes a NASCAR crash look tepid and a duel that only a writer who's also a fight choreographer and swordsman himself could write. Blixt also throws in a mysterious child, assassination attempts, oracular prophecies, and a villain as curiously loathsome as one from Dickens or Dumas. All of this should collapse into an unreadable mess, but Blixt's well-honed prose, characters, and narrative line turned it instead into my favorite beach book of summer 2007. Oh, and if that weren't good enough, throughout the book, you come to empathize with the fathers of both Romeo and Juliet and watch as their friendship turns to hate. I can't wait for his next book.
October 8, 2012
Being already familiar with the story of Cangrande della Scala, I was keen to read this version of his life. So far, my interest has been maintained and I have not been at all disappointed with David's re-creation of this fascinating and turbulent period in Italian history.
For those familiar with Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet", here is the chance to read an interpretation of the "history" behind the play, and meet the real-life characters who inspired the Bard to put pen to paper.
But do not be deterred into thinking this is just a medieval romance - for where would a great story be without a cast of truly interesting characters; intrigue and drama; battles a-plenty; and life, love and death.
A must read - a looking forward for the next instalment in the "Star Cross'd" series.
For those familiar with Shakespeare's "Romeo and Juliet", here is the chance to read an interpretation of the "history" behind the play, and meet the real-life characters who inspired the Bard to put pen to paper.
But do not be deterred into thinking this is just a medieval romance - for where would a great story be without a cast of truly interesting characters; intrigue and drama; battles a-plenty; and life, love and death.
A must read - a looking forward for the next instalment in the "Star Cross'd" series.
December 21, 2018
‘A man may control his actions, but not his stars.’
The novel opens in 1314, when, in perpetual exile from Florence, the poet Durante degli Alighieri and his two surviving sons, seventeen-year-old Pietro and fourteen-year-old Jacopo (‘Poco’) are travelling to Verona. Durante degli Aligheri is more commonly known as Dante Aligheri, or Dante. They’ve been invited by Francesco della Scala, the Prince of Verona, referred to as Cangrande.
‘What is nobler than thinking of perfection?’
Thus begins Mr Blixt’s sweeping novel with its large cast of characters. Some are historical figures, others are Shakespearean characters, all will have a part to play. At the centre of the novel is Pietro Alaghieri, the elder of Dante’s surviving sons. Pietro’s bravery during a battle for control of Vicenza brings him to Cangrande’s attention. Pietro also forms a strong friendship with Mariotto (‘Mari’) Montecchi and Antonio (‘Antony’) Capuletti. But there’s a world of intrigue for Pietro to negotiate. He is trusted both by Cangrande and his sister Katerina and is drawn into Cangrande’s political intrigues. At the same time, a baby known as Francesco (called ‘Cesco’) is in danger. Francesco, adopted by Cangarnde’s sister, is believed to be Cangrande’s bastard son and possible heir. Pietro has a part to play in keeping Cesco safe. The friendship between Mari Montecchi and Antony Capuletti will become rivalry when they both fall in love with the same woman.
‘No harm? A man raised to believe himself a creature of destiny, only to find his destiny belonged to another.’
It took me a while to get into this novel, to become familiar with the characters. I don’t have a detailed knowledge of this period of Italian history so I’m not always clear where the boundary between fact and fiction rests. Part way into the novel I was totally engrossed. Yes, I recognised some Shakespearean echoes, became caught up in the intrigue and became interested in the history.
I would recommend this novel to anyone who likes complex tales of historical fiction (such as Dorothy Dunnett’s House of Niccolo and Lymond Chronicles). I’m looking forward to the second book in this series.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
The novel opens in 1314, when, in perpetual exile from Florence, the poet Durante degli Alighieri and his two surviving sons, seventeen-year-old Pietro and fourteen-year-old Jacopo (‘Poco’) are travelling to Verona. Durante degli Aligheri is more commonly known as Dante Aligheri, or Dante. They’ve been invited by Francesco della Scala, the Prince of Verona, referred to as Cangrande.
‘What is nobler than thinking of perfection?’
Thus begins Mr Blixt’s sweeping novel with its large cast of characters. Some are historical figures, others are Shakespearean characters, all will have a part to play. At the centre of the novel is Pietro Alaghieri, the elder of Dante’s surviving sons. Pietro’s bravery during a battle for control of Vicenza brings him to Cangrande’s attention. Pietro also forms a strong friendship with Mariotto (‘Mari’) Montecchi and Antonio (‘Antony’) Capuletti. But there’s a world of intrigue for Pietro to negotiate. He is trusted both by Cangrande and his sister Katerina and is drawn into Cangrande’s political intrigues. At the same time, a baby known as Francesco (called ‘Cesco’) is in danger. Francesco, adopted by Cangarnde’s sister, is believed to be Cangrande’s bastard son and possible heir. Pietro has a part to play in keeping Cesco safe. The friendship between Mari Montecchi and Antony Capuletti will become rivalry when they both fall in love with the same woman.
‘No harm? A man raised to believe himself a creature of destiny, only to find his destiny belonged to another.’
It took me a while to get into this novel, to become familiar with the characters. I don’t have a detailed knowledge of this period of Italian history so I’m not always clear where the boundary between fact and fiction rests. Part way into the novel I was totally engrossed. Yes, I recognised some Shakespearean echoes, became caught up in the intrigue and became interested in the history.
I would recommend this novel to anyone who likes complex tales of historical fiction (such as Dorothy Dunnett’s House of Niccolo and Lymond Chronicles). I’m looking forward to the second book in this series.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
October 31, 2025
I give up.
The author did a lot of research. He obviously knows Shakespeare and Dante and the historical background of the period forwards and backwards. Well, I don't, so I got lost pretty quickly.
The story gets off with a good start: a stampede on a bridge and an attempted assasination at midnight. That's the prologue.
And then we switch to the main character - Dante's 17 year old son Pietro. And then it starts. Names. More names. More names of historical people and people Shakespeare invented. And a few more names of people you have probably never heard of. I kept paging back to the beginning of the book with the list of characters, trying to keep track.
Inbetween a glimpse of the battle / siege of Vicenca, but we leave before it gets interesting. Because Pietro has to be introduced to a few more people.
There are a lot of Italian words from the Renaissance. Very historically correct. Then the author speaks of Germany. Which didn't exists as a country until 1871. There are also some word choices that are too modern for a text that at other moments tries so very hard to be authentic. It's exhausting.
I love historical fiction. I really liked the author's chapter in "A Song of War". But this was not for me. Perhaps if the time period and the works of Shakespeare and Dante are your specialty, you'll love this. I'm more at home in the 18th and 19th century and Blixt didn't give me enough context to enjoy his story - I was just bored by the endless cast of characters.
The author did a lot of research. He obviously knows Shakespeare and Dante and the historical background of the period forwards and backwards. Well, I don't, so I got lost pretty quickly.
The story gets off with a good start: a stampede on a bridge and an attempted assasination at midnight. That's the prologue.
And then we switch to the main character - Dante's 17 year old son Pietro. And then it starts. Names. More names. More names of historical people and people Shakespeare invented. And a few more names of people you have probably never heard of. I kept paging back to the beginning of the book with the list of characters, trying to keep track.
Inbetween a glimpse of the battle / siege of Vicenca, but we leave before it gets interesting. Because Pietro has to be introduced to a few more people.
There are a lot of Italian words from the Renaissance. Very historically correct. Then the author speaks of Germany. Which didn't exists as a country until 1871. There are also some word choices that are too modern for a text that at other moments tries so very hard to be authentic. It's exhausting.
I love historical fiction. I really liked the author's chapter in "A Song of War". But this was not for me. Perhaps if the time period and the works of Shakespeare and Dante are your specialty, you'll love this. I'm more at home in the 18th and 19th century and Blixt didn't give me enough context to enjoy his story - I was just bored by the endless cast of characters.
September 10, 2012
David Blixt is a Shakespearian actor, playwright and author. I have never seen any of his plays, but if his novel, The Master of Verona, is any indication of his literary abilities, I would wager that his plays give the Bard of Avon a run for his money.
The Lord of Verona is enthralling from beginning to end. The Lord of Verona, was called by many names, Francesco Della Scala, Cangrande (Big Dog), the Scaliger, Il Capitano, and by some, Il Veltro-the Greyhound. Those who have seen Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet may remember him as Escalus, Prince of Verona, the stern, no-nonsense ruler of the city of the star-cross’d lovers, admonishing citizens Montague and Capulet, “If ever you disturb our streets again, your lives shall pay the forfeit of the peace.”
The events of David Blixt’s book take place during the generation previous to Shakespeare’s play. The Scalager is 23 years old and is in the process of making a name for himself among the Italian nobility. The poet Dante Alaghieri, who has just published The Inferno, the first part of his Divine Comedy, had come under Cangrande’s patronage. He says of his patron “The youngest of three sons, the only one still living. Sharp, tall, well-spoken. No. That won’t do. I said before, words don’t do him justice. He has a. . . a streak of immortality inside him, inside his mind. If he continues unchecked, he will make Verona the new Caput Mundi.”
It is Dante’s eldest surviving son, Pietro, who becomes a major player in this story. He impresses Cangrande with his bravery in battle and Cangrande makes him a knight, along with his two friends Antonio Capacelatro and Mariotto Montecchio. Pietro, Antonio, and Mariotto are the best of friends, a triumvirate, until Mariotto falls in love with Antonio’s bride to be, Gianazza, and elopes with her, an act which will ultimately lead to no happy ending.
Pietro enters a world of complex political intrigue, for which he is ill prepared. His father, Dante, and many others believe that Cangrande is Il Veltro, the Greyhound, the mythical savior of Italy and herald of a new utopian order. Cangrande himself denies this and informs Pietro that the honor may well fall on his illegitimate son, Francesco, who is being raised by Cangrande’s sister Catarina. A number of Cangrande’s enemies have an interest in seeing that little Francesco never reaches manhood, and it falls to Pietro, as Cangrande’s vassal, to protect the life of the precocious little tyke.
The Master of Verona is intriguing and fascinating from beginning to end, and I’ve put all of David Blixt’s novels on my short list. Someday I hope to watch one of his plays as well.
The Lord of Verona is enthralling from beginning to end. The Lord of Verona, was called by many names, Francesco Della Scala, Cangrande (Big Dog), the Scaliger, Il Capitano, and by some, Il Veltro-the Greyhound. Those who have seen Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet may remember him as Escalus, Prince of Verona, the stern, no-nonsense ruler of the city of the star-cross’d lovers, admonishing citizens Montague and Capulet, “If ever you disturb our streets again, your lives shall pay the forfeit of the peace.”
The events of David Blixt’s book take place during the generation previous to Shakespeare’s play. The Scalager is 23 years old and is in the process of making a name for himself among the Italian nobility. The poet Dante Alaghieri, who has just published The Inferno, the first part of his Divine Comedy, had come under Cangrande’s patronage. He says of his patron “The youngest of three sons, the only one still living. Sharp, tall, well-spoken. No. That won’t do. I said before, words don’t do him justice. He has a. . . a streak of immortality inside him, inside his mind. If he continues unchecked, he will make Verona the new Caput Mundi.”
It is Dante’s eldest surviving son, Pietro, who becomes a major player in this story. He impresses Cangrande with his bravery in battle and Cangrande makes him a knight, along with his two friends Antonio Capacelatro and Mariotto Montecchio. Pietro, Antonio, and Mariotto are the best of friends, a triumvirate, until Mariotto falls in love with Antonio’s bride to be, Gianazza, and elopes with her, an act which will ultimately lead to no happy ending.
Pietro enters a world of complex political intrigue, for which he is ill prepared. His father, Dante, and many others believe that Cangrande is Il Veltro, the Greyhound, the mythical savior of Italy and herald of a new utopian order. Cangrande himself denies this and informs Pietro that the honor may well fall on his illegitimate son, Francesco, who is being raised by Cangrande’s sister Catarina. A number of Cangrande’s enemies have an interest in seeing that little Francesco never reaches manhood, and it falls to Pietro, as Cangrande’s vassal, to protect the life of the precocious little tyke.
The Master of Verona is intriguing and fascinating from beginning to end, and I’ve put all of David Blixt’s novels on my short list. Someday I hope to watch one of his plays as well.
July 11, 2008
Holy shit. Five hundred and sixty six pages.
For a long time I've believed that there is only one point in reading book reviews. You should know if a book is worth your time. If you were on a desert island somewhere in Ohio it wouldn't matter very much if a book were at classic status. As a child I spent the majority of my reading hours on cereal boxes.
I cannot imagine an audience for this book. I read it at the recommendation of its editor. The fact that this book and Mercutio are vaguely rivals should have nothing to do with it.
This would be a great book to read if you a) were the kind of person who lusted after the novels of chivalry that were lampooned by Don Quixote. b) always wondered what kind of wounded knight Dante's second son might become. Or c) you accidentally misread something on Wikipedia that made you think that the 300 page novel you were writing was somehow upstaged by a pre-existing 566 page novel.
This is a book for people who love sterile descriptions of 14th century battlefields. People who want to read--seemingly without end-- of what a knight on horseback must do to protect the local governor. It is not a novel for people who love Shakespeare or Dante.
Blixt envisioned most of the novel because of a line at the end of Romeo & Juliet which says, after the death of Lady Montague, that the feud is over. He takes this to mean that Montague and Capulet war began in a fight over her.
This book was so painfully bad that I found myself skimming over certain chapters, knowing that I would understand whatever outcome by the unnecessary amount of discussion that would follow. If you pause for Proper Nouns you will never be lost.
Its page-count out-numbers most of Proust and certainly anything else I've read this year in a single volume. I was disgusted to discover that the author has decided to make this into a trilogy.
I have no problems with the novel narratively or mechanically. It is a satisfactory five hundred and sixty six pages of 14th century, honor-bound knighthood.
For a long time I've believed that there is only one point in reading book reviews. You should know if a book is worth your time. If you were on a desert island somewhere in Ohio it wouldn't matter very much if a book were at classic status. As a child I spent the majority of my reading hours on cereal boxes.
I cannot imagine an audience for this book. I read it at the recommendation of its editor. The fact that this book and Mercutio are vaguely rivals should have nothing to do with it.
This would be a great book to read if you a) were the kind of person who lusted after the novels of chivalry that were lampooned by Don Quixote. b) always wondered what kind of wounded knight Dante's second son might become. Or c) you accidentally misread something on Wikipedia that made you think that the 300 page novel you were writing was somehow upstaged by a pre-existing 566 page novel.
This is a book for people who love sterile descriptions of 14th century battlefields. People who want to read--seemingly without end-- of what a knight on horseback must do to protect the local governor. It is not a novel for people who love Shakespeare or Dante.
Blixt envisioned most of the novel because of a line at the end of Romeo & Juliet which says, after the death of Lady Montague, that the feud is over. He takes this to mean that Montague and Capulet war began in a fight over her.
This book was so painfully bad that I found myself skimming over certain chapters, knowing that I would understand whatever outcome by the unnecessary amount of discussion that would follow. If you pause for Proper Nouns you will never be lost.
Its page-count out-numbers most of Proust and certainly anything else I've read this year in a single volume. I was disgusted to discover that the author has decided to make this into a trilogy.
I have no problems with the novel narratively or mechanically. It is a satisfactory five hundred and sixty six pages of 14th century, honor-bound knighthood.
December 21, 2012
My Northern Italian roots cried out for me to read this! Anything that’s historical and related to my favourite “V”-places (Venice, Vicenza, Verona) will immediately grab my attention. But…can that hold my attention for more than 500 pages? For MASTER OF VERONA, by David Blixt, I say YES- YES ABSOLUTELY!!! As a matter of fact, I’m already almost done reading the sequel (more on that one coming soon!).
Picture an epic-size story that includes poet-author, Dante Alighieri (The Inferno) and his son, Pietro. But that’s not all-Cangrande of Verona- who is larger than life (and if you know Verona, you know how Grand of a mark he made; his presence still felt). As a patron to Dante, Cangrande, illustrious in all senses and seemingly all-powerful, especially in battle, has his life saved by the young Pietro. Cangrande is impressed by Pietro and bestows upon him the honor of making him a knight.
The story is largely about Pietro, but brings in so many historical highlights and facts all blended in extraordinary story telling. And- to tie things in beautifully, especially for Shakespearian lovers, what’s a tale about Verona without Romeo and Juliet? Blixt is master at setting the stage for this as well. The history is beautiful, and the battles as intense as they were for sure back then. Tension in feudality, political intrigue, detailed settings and history, and loads of dialogue (A++ + Who can take all that history if there’s no one talking!) Completely entertaining from the very first page to the last!
There are simply no words that can describe how good this book is. If like me, you love the Renaissance and the Veneto region, this historical will blow you away. I wish they turned this into a movie!
Master of Verona, by David Blixt- GENIUS.
I Highly recommend this book!
Picture an epic-size story that includes poet-author, Dante Alighieri (The Inferno) and his son, Pietro. But that’s not all-Cangrande of Verona- who is larger than life (and if you know Verona, you know how Grand of a mark he made; his presence still felt). As a patron to Dante, Cangrande, illustrious in all senses and seemingly all-powerful, especially in battle, has his life saved by the young Pietro. Cangrande is impressed by Pietro and bestows upon him the honor of making him a knight.
The story is largely about Pietro, but brings in so many historical highlights and facts all blended in extraordinary story telling. And- to tie things in beautifully, especially for Shakespearian lovers, what’s a tale about Verona without Romeo and Juliet? Blixt is master at setting the stage for this as well. The history is beautiful, and the battles as intense as they were for sure back then. Tension in feudality, political intrigue, detailed settings and history, and loads of dialogue (A++ + Who can take all that history if there’s no one talking!) Completely entertaining from the very first page to the last!
There are simply no words that can describe how good this book is. If like me, you love the Renaissance and the Veneto region, this historical will blow you away. I wish they turned this into a movie!
Master of Verona, by David Blixt- GENIUS.
I Highly recommend this book!
April 3, 2008
Enjoyed it immensely. After a lifetime of reading about Norman-English knights starting with Ivanhoe/ Walter Scott/ Pyle's Illustrated Arthurian stuff and the recent spate of crusader- Templar books, I'm scratching my head wondering why no one did this sooner and delighted to read a richly detailed story told from an Italian City State perspective.
And with Dante Aligheri and his son as central characters I can picture the countryside since, about 8 years ago, we met Serego Alighieri (Count for those who are counting) on the family estate in the hills north of Verona. The land Blixt describes is land upon which I have trod (Jeeeze, I'm starting to sound like Tony "Yonder lies the castle of my Fawthah" Curtis) and that makes it special. The Alighieri lands are in the middle of the Masi vineyards. Still in the family (so I knew that Pietro actually survives his adventures.) Anyhow its a fun ride.
He manages to weave in precursors to a bunch of Shakespeare's plays (the usual suspects -- especially the Montagues and Capulets). He drops arch hints about young up and comers like Petrarch but uses the Italian spelling. In fact, that's one of the joys of the book: the reimagining of names we learned in English Lit as the Italian names/ words they most likely actually were. (That's a convoluted sentence, isn't it?) The heroes are heroic in the old swashbuckling Errol Flynn mode. And the kid raised to be a churchman who becomes the uber warrior central character stretches credibility. Nonetheless, once you accept the basic conceit, the adventures are great fun.
One last thought: software will never replace human proofreaders. Caught a couple of typos.
BTW: Loved the UTube video posted on the Author's page here. Nicely done.
And with Dante Aligheri and his son as central characters I can picture the countryside since, about 8 years ago, we met Serego Alighieri (Count for those who are counting) on the family estate in the hills north of Verona. The land Blixt describes is land upon which I have trod (Jeeeze, I'm starting to sound like Tony "Yonder lies the castle of my Fawthah" Curtis) and that makes it special. The Alighieri lands are in the middle of the Masi vineyards. Still in the family (so I knew that Pietro actually survives his adventures.) Anyhow its a fun ride.
He manages to weave in precursors to a bunch of Shakespeare's plays (the usual suspects -- especially the Montagues and Capulets). He drops arch hints about young up and comers like Petrarch but uses the Italian spelling. In fact, that's one of the joys of the book: the reimagining of names we learned in English Lit as the Italian names/ words they most likely actually were. (That's a convoluted sentence, isn't it?) The heroes are heroic in the old swashbuckling Errol Flynn mode. And the kid raised to be a churchman who becomes the uber warrior central character stretches credibility. Nonetheless, once you accept the basic conceit, the adventures are great fun.
One last thought: software will never replace human proofreaders. Caught a couple of typos.
BTW: Loved the UTube video posted on the Author's page here. Nicely done.
September 12, 2013
What a rip-roaring book this is! This is the first book by David Blixt I have read, but it won't be the last.
"The Master of Verona", set in early 14th century northern Italy, is a tale of adventure, war, intrigue, and love. Historical figures such as Dante and Francesco della Scala are interwoven with fictional, including prototypes for Romeo and Juliet. We are swept into the ongoing war between Verona and Padua for control of the smaller cities between them. The grandest of the military leaders is Cangrande, Francesco della Scala. He strides across the story with power and charisma and a towering intelligence.
Our guide into this world is Pietro Alaghieri, Dante's son and heir. He falls under the spell of Cangrande and his sister Donna Katerina and is swept into a world of espionage, daring assaults, and duels. Pietro makes friends in Verona with Mariotto and Antony and this trio is inseparable until a young woman enter the story. Gianozza is betrothed to Antony to seal a deal between Antony's wealthy merchant father and Gianozza's uncle. But when Gianozza glimpses Antony's best friend Mariotto, she decides that he is the husband for her. A feud between the families ensues which tears apart friendships and leads to accusations of treachery.
Blixt does a good job of keeping all these balls in the air, although the Italian names and nicknames can sometimes be confusing, especially when a complicated battle is being described. There are some typos that mar the pleasure of reading just a bit. I hope that these were corrected for the paperback edition.
If you enjoy a rousing tale of adventure, with a spice of Shakespeare's characters and Dante's poetry, then this might be the book for you.
"The Master of Verona", set in early 14th century northern Italy, is a tale of adventure, war, intrigue, and love. Historical figures such as Dante and Francesco della Scala are interwoven with fictional, including prototypes for Romeo and Juliet. We are swept into the ongoing war between Verona and Padua for control of the smaller cities between them. The grandest of the military leaders is Cangrande, Francesco della Scala. He strides across the story with power and charisma and a towering intelligence.
Our guide into this world is Pietro Alaghieri, Dante's son and heir. He falls under the spell of Cangrande and his sister Donna Katerina and is swept into a world of espionage, daring assaults, and duels. Pietro makes friends in Verona with Mariotto and Antony and this trio is inseparable until a young woman enter the story. Gianozza is betrothed to Antony to seal a deal between Antony's wealthy merchant father and Gianozza's uncle. But when Gianozza glimpses Antony's best friend Mariotto, she decides that he is the husband for her. A feud between the families ensues which tears apart friendships and leads to accusations of treachery.
Blixt does a good job of keeping all these balls in the air, although the Italian names and nicknames can sometimes be confusing, especially when a complicated battle is being described. There are some typos that mar the pleasure of reading just a bit. I hope that these were corrected for the paperback edition.
If you enjoy a rousing tale of adventure, with a spice of Shakespeare's characters and Dante's poetry, then this might be the book for you.
July 9, 2012
This is my second David Blixt novel and it is nearly impossible to believe this was his debut. It is a jam-packed, thrilling, riveting and heart-wrenching novel chock o'block full of historical and dramatic detail and allusions. Many reviewers have talked about the theoretical approach to Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet tragic feud and, while that is both fun and intriguing to follow through the novel, I was completely enthralled by Pietro (Dante's heir and the lead protagonist), his honor, unbelievable courage and Cangrande. For me, the book was an introduction to Cangrande and his place in Veronese history. This is historical fiction so I don't hold the author to religious adherence to historical fact, and Blixt has illuminated this larger than life figure with his dramatized context of characters and made me want to learn more about the real Francesco della Scala.
I have only one minor complaint, and it is not important enough for me to "deduct" a star in my rating, is the editing. It may be that the word misplacements, the occasional misuse of a character's name, and the like were corrected in print versions of the book and they only exist in the Kindle edition. I hope so. Without these editing errors, this novel would be -- for me -- perfection!
Highly, highly recommended and now I'm on to read the next book in the Star-Cross'd series ("Voice of the Falconer")!
I have only one minor complaint, and it is not important enough for me to "deduct" a star in my rating, is the editing. It may be that the word misplacements, the occasional misuse of a character's name, and the like were corrected in print versions of the book and they only exist in the Kindle edition. I hope so. Without these editing errors, this novel would be -- for me -- perfection!
Highly, highly recommended and now I'm on to read the next book in the Star-Cross'd series ("Voice of the Falconer")!
May 13, 2016
This book, set in the Italian city-states during the 14th century, starts to fill in the back story of the deadly feud that led to the demise of Romeo and Juliet. (It's the first book in a series of four.) The main character of this installment is Pietro Alaghieri, eldest surviving son of the poet Dante. The book is filled with battle, political intrigue, and fascinating customs of the time (such as Verona's twin races called the Palio, one a horse race and one a nude foot race). The other thing that enlivens the story is the Shakespearean characters who pop in and out unexpectedly, such as Katerina and Petruchio from The Taming of the Shrew.
I found the book a little slow to get into—there are a lot of characters—but as soon as it honed in on Pietro's transformation from scholarly nerd into chivalrous knight, I was hooked. My other slight complaint is that this is like a Russian novel: lots of characters, many of whom have several names. For example, the leader that Pietro comes to serve is known variously as Cangrande, the Greyhound, Francesco Della Scalla, the Capitano, and the Scaliger. It takes time and perseverence to learn all the various appellations for all the characters.
Despite those quibbles, I found it a thoroughly enjoyable and fast-paced book. It brings to life the complexity of life in the very early Italian Renaissance.
I found the book a little slow to get into—there are a lot of characters—but as soon as it honed in on Pietro's transformation from scholarly nerd into chivalrous knight, I was hooked. My other slight complaint is that this is like a Russian novel: lots of characters, many of whom have several names. For example, the leader that Pietro comes to serve is known variously as Cangrande, the Greyhound, Francesco Della Scalla, the Capitano, and the Scaliger. It takes time and perseverence to learn all the various appellations for all the characters.
Despite those quibbles, I found it a thoroughly enjoyable and fast-paced book. It brings to life the complexity of life in the very early Italian Renaissance.
June 17, 2012
I really enjoyed this book - it was a nice change from my usual English and French focused historical fiction. I especially liked the focus on Dante, Verona in the 14th century, Shakespeare references(specifically Romeo & Juliet) and mysterious power machinations of the de Scala court. I felt the writing was almost Dorothy Dunnett-like (my highest form of praise), especially in regarding to the power struggles behind the scenes, the detailed descriptions of battles and duels, and in the exquisite character development. This is one that I will be reading again and again, I'm sure, and I'm eager to read the sequel. (It's a good example of my love/hate relationship with libraries - I love it that I found this wonderful book at the library but hate it that I have to return it instead of proudly displaying on my shelf).
I did notice some errors and typos (I assume the pubisher's fault), along with the glaring mistake on the cover using a modern sword. I especially enjoyed the Author's Note (but I wish they could have used the Congrande sword from Del Tin as described on the cover - would have been so much better). Overall, this was an excellent book.
I did notice some errors and typos (I assume the pubisher's fault), along with the glaring mistake on the cover using a modern sword. I especially enjoyed the Author's Note (but I wish they could have used the Congrande sword from Del Tin as described on the cover - would have been so much better). Overall, this was an excellent book.
November 21, 2012
I wasn't sure until the very end if I liked it or not. While I am an self-proclaimed avid historical fiction reader, I'm saddened to say this era of Italy's history isn't my immediate go to. I wasn't familiar with the political struggles or geography, which made getting into the plot more difficult than most. But, since they were my issues and not the author's, I pushed onward. I thoroughly enjoy Shakespeare, and while R&J is my least favourite of his plays, it was very interesting to see how the feud all came about. I especially appreciated how that plot line was almost an aside to it all. I don't think I would have enjoyed the book as much if the love triangle were front and centre. Blixt's notes at the end of the book explaining his choices were great to read to, and it gave me more food for thought regarding R&J. It became a fun game for me to see how many of Shakespeare's characters Blixt would introduce. I only caught Petrucchio, Katherina, and Shylock. It's those subtleties that draw me in as a reader, and just plain fun.
August 19, 2011
This was a good read. The story is quite interesting (don't get distracted by the Romeo & Juliette hype you might hear of elsewhere - it's not that pathetic) and at times gripping. I bought it because of the Dante connection and wasn't disappointed. It is a clever book about intrigue and political machinations in that era just prior to the Renaissance. The real hero, the master of Verona, is larger than life (and, it turns out, the real character was also!) and could easily have been one of Machiavelli's role-models for the Prince. There are some aspects that are, perhaps, a little over the top in suspending disbelief (and I particularly hate those unhealthy, strangely over-loyal friendships between young men - just like the Hobbit quartet in "Lord of the Rings") but, on the whole, entertaining and engrossing.
February 29, 2020
This book instantly pulls you in and doesn't let you go until the very end. The story revolves around one of Dante's sons so is set in Medieval/Renaissance Italy. Political intrigue, assanation plots, and tests of loyalty abound. There are several secondary characters who are as well-developed as the protaganist and evolve throughout the work, making me become attached to most of them. The author's interpretations of Dante's life wasn't the primary focus of this story but was nonetheless just as fascinating. Although the work is quite long, I was never bored with it. Highly recommend this book!
August 13, 2012
At 1:00am this morning, when I finally finished the last chapter of this book, I stayed awake for another two hours trying to figure out what to say about this book. Amazing, thrilling, suspenseful, complex, confusing, exhilerating, beautiful are all words I would use to describe it. No one is exactly what they seem and you can tell that more "peeling of the onions" are to come. I don't know how Blixt could possibly surpass my expectations now-he has set the bar extremely high. All I can say is "Wow."
January 2, 2014
I like historic novels but had not read anything from this region before. I found it very engaging and enjoyable, so much so I read the next two in the series as well. I wasn't sure about the whole Shakespeare angle but have come to like it, interesting approach.
February 6, 2015
One of the best books I've read in a long time! If you like Dorothy Dunnett read David Blixt!
October 21, 2018
This one started slow for me--mainly because Blixt introduced a large number of characters with complicated Italian names, all at once. When I gave up and kept track of characters through context, I moved much more quickly. (This is my problem--Blixt is writing about mostly historical figures and has to use their names.) As you can see by my rating, I very much enjoyed this book, which is the first in his Star-Crossed series. The author builds a complex world with complicated characters, lots of a action, and tons of historical details that puts the reader in the middle of his story. I particularly liked how he blended Dante's story with the Shakespeare's Italian plays.
The author has a background in fight choreography that serves him well in the action scenes. He can slow-mo the action from the character's POV so that the reader can "see" it--without slowing down the narrative--a neat trick! My only complaint--from a writer's POV--was the way he handled the ending, which had the protagonist accidentally eavesdropping on two main characters who conveniently knit up all the loose ends of the story. It's a technique that I feel is akin to the antagonist "monologing" or detective "reveal" in the parlor with all the suspects in that the protagonist (standing in for the reader) doesn't have to work for or discover the answers in a more natural way. However, this is Blixt's first book, so I'll give him a pass. There are many more to read and I'm looking forward to them!
The author has a background in fight choreography that serves him well in the action scenes. He can slow-mo the action from the character's POV so that the reader can "see" it--without slowing down the narrative--a neat trick! My only complaint--from a writer's POV--was the way he handled the ending, which had the protagonist accidentally eavesdropping on two main characters who conveniently knit up all the loose ends of the story. It's a technique that I feel is akin to the antagonist "monologing" or detective "reveal" in the parlor with all the suspects in that the protagonist (standing in for the reader) doesn't have to work for or discover the answers in a more natural way. However, this is Blixt's first book, so I'll give him a pass. There are many more to read and I'm looking forward to them!
dnf
September 7, 2023The older I get, the more at peace I am with not finishing books. Which is still to say, I'm not very at peace, but I manage it occasionally. I decided to cancel my short-lived Scribd subscription, so I lost access to this book when I was about a quarter through, but I have to be honest, I could have finished it in time if I cared to. I was just...uninspired. And I'm most likely to bail on ebooks (as opposed to physical books or audiobooks) since the format is least likely to hold my attention. I'm not a huge Romeo and Juliet fan or a renaissance Italy fan, and the writing style didn't do anything for me. I don't mind complicated historical fiction (ahem, Dorothy Dunnett), but this seemed overly prolix and detailed, without any compelling characters to keep me going. Not terrible, just bland--at least in the first quarter. No rating since maybe this thing got amazing by the end.
October 7, 2018
History class was never this much fun.
Reading this novel is like watching a 14th Century tapestry come to life, only to have it pull you inside. The Shakespearean themes, the biographical details about Dante, and the creation of a worthy hero in Ser Pietro all make this a delightful and compelling read.
Reading this novel is like watching a 14th Century tapestry come to life, only to have it pull you inside. The Shakespearean themes, the biographical details about Dante, and the creation of a worthy hero in Ser Pietro all make this a delightful and compelling read.
September 23, 2019
An intricately woven tale
Historical fiction gives license to a creative writer to fill in gaps of knowledge about events for which written history provides a framework for a good tale. The Master of Verona accomplishes just that. Undertaking to read this book is a challenge; it has many unexpected twists that keep you picking it back up to finish a chapter and propel you to the next. With every bit of your time!
Historical fiction gives license to a creative writer to fill in gaps of knowledge about events for which written history provides a framework for a good tale. The Master of Verona accomplishes just that. Undertaking to read this book is a challenge; it has many unexpected twists that keep you picking it back up to finish a chapter and propel you to the next. With every bit of your time!
September 18, 2019
Intelligent, fun, action filled
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