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The Girl with Emerald Eyes
Two women, centuries apart, bound together by the secrets of one of the most iconic buildings ever created.
Pisa, 1999
Sam Campbell sits by her husband’s hospital bed. Far from home and her children, she must care for Michael who is recovering from a stroke. A man she loves deeply. A man who has been unfaithful to her.
Alone and in need of distraction, Sam decides to pick up Michael’s research into the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Immersing herself in the ancient city, she begins to piece together the mystery behind the creation of the tower, and discovers the woman who history forgot…
Pisa, 1171
Berta di Bernardo, the wife of a rich merchant, sits in her chamber, dressing for a dinner party. A gathering that will change the course of her life and a young master mason, Gerardo, forever.
A strong, intelligent woman, Berta’s passion for architecture also draws her closer to Gerardo. As she embarks on a love affair, her maid Aurelia also becomes spellbound by the same man. Yet for Berta, her heart’s desire is to see the Tower built, and her determination knows no bounds…
A richly drawn and absorbing novel of passion and power, love and redemption that will captivate fans of Victoria Hislop, Tracy Chevalier and Kate Furnivall.
Pisa, 1999
Sam Campbell sits by her husband’s hospital bed. Far from home and her children, she must care for Michael who is recovering from a stroke. A man she loves deeply. A man who has been unfaithful to her.
Alone and in need of distraction, Sam decides to pick up Michael’s research into the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Immersing herself in the ancient city, she begins to piece together the mystery behind the creation of the tower, and discovers the woman who history forgot…
Pisa, 1171
Berta di Bernardo, the wife of a rich merchant, sits in her chamber, dressing for a dinner party. A gathering that will change the course of her life and a young master mason, Gerardo, forever.
A strong, intelligent woman, Berta’s passion for architecture also draws her closer to Gerardo. As she embarks on a love affair, her maid Aurelia also becomes spellbound by the same man. Yet for Berta, her heart’s desire is to see the Tower built, and her determination knows no bounds…
A richly drawn and absorbing novel of passion and power, love and redemption that will captivate fans of Victoria Hislop, Tracy Chevalier and Kate Furnivall.
380 pages, Paperback
First published March 20, 2015
285 people are currently reading
988 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Rix
10 books235 followersI started writing novels after a long career in broadcasting and journalism. My first novel - The Girl with Emerald Eyes (originally published as 'Secrets of the Tower' in March 2015), is set in two time zones - the modern day and 12th century. It explores the extraordinary woman who left the money to build the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
My second novel: Daughters of the Silk Road follows the journey of a family of merchant explorers who return to Venice from China with a Ming Vase. The book again straddles two time zones.
The Silk Weaver's Wife was published in 2017 and is set in the world of the Italian silk industry. The period story follows the journey of a young Veronese woman who is forced into an abusive marriage. The modern heroine uncovers her remarkable story.
My last two novels are set in 20th century. 'The Photograph' tells the story of Hungarian refugee Rachael who escapes to London from Budapest in 1956. Travelling to Sardinia with her archaeologist father, she meets the man who will change her life. Meanwhile in 2018, her anthropologist grand-daughter Sophie is struggling with infertility. As their two stories intertwine, Sophie uncovers her grandmother's secret.
My latest novel: 'The Secret Letter' is due out on 22nd July. It explores the lives of two young girls in the 2nd world war - Imogen separated from her parents as an evacuee, and Magda who is determined to fight the Nazi regime. Their lives are brought together by a young RAF pilot. The story is based in part on the extraordinary experiences of my father who escaped a German prisoner of war camp at the end of the war.
I live in Kent with my family, four cats and chickens.
My second novel: Daughters of the Silk Road follows the journey of a family of merchant explorers who return to Venice from China with a Ming Vase. The book again straddles two time zones.
The Silk Weaver's Wife was published in 2017 and is set in the world of the Italian silk industry. The period story follows the journey of a young Veronese woman who is forced into an abusive marriage. The modern heroine uncovers her remarkable story.
My last two novels are set in 20th century. 'The Photograph' tells the story of Hungarian refugee Rachael who escapes to London from Budapest in 1956. Travelling to Sardinia with her archaeologist father, she meets the man who will change her life. Meanwhile in 2018, her anthropologist grand-daughter Sophie is struggling with infertility. As their two stories intertwine, Sophie uncovers her grandmother's secret.
My latest novel: 'The Secret Letter' is due out on 22nd July. It explores the lives of two young girls in the 2nd world war - Imogen separated from her parents as an evacuee, and Magda who is determined to fight the Nazi regime. Their lives are brought together by a young RAF pilot. The story is based in part on the extraordinary experiences of my father who escaped a German prisoner of war camp at the end of the war.
I live in Kent with my family, four cats and chickens.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
did-not-finish
February 16, 2016Simpering garbage. DNF.
Additionally, in her notes at the end, the author says she was determined to get the historical backdrop as accurate as possible as 'there's nothing worse that finding anachronistic anomalies in a historical novel.' Hmm. So it's ok for a 12th century character to say 'ok' is it?
Additionally, in her notes at the end, the author says she was determined to get the historical backdrop as accurate as possible as 'there's nothing worse that finding anachronistic anomalies in a historical novel.' Hmm. So it's ok for a 12th century character to say 'ok' is it?
August 20, 2017
Λοιπόν… δεν είμαι σίγουρη το πώς με έκανε να νιώσω αυτό το βιβλίο. Είχε ορισμένα στοιχεία που μου άρεσαν, αλλά την αμέσως επόμενη στιγμή ερχόταν ένα στοιχείο που δεν μου άρεσε και μου χαλούσε όλη τη συνταγή, καταστρέφοντας τις ισορροπίες.
Η γραφή είναι αμήχανη και η ιστορία καταφεύγει σε τόσα πολλά κλισέ που δεν μπορείς να παραβλέψεις το ότι καταλήγουν να είναι υπερβολικά πολλά για να τα διαχειριστείς. Σαφέστατα και σε όλα τα βιβλία του είδους γίνεται χρήση αυτών, αλλά αν δεν υπάρχει μέτρο, όπως στη προκειμένη περίπτωση, είναι πολύ εύκολο να χαθούν όλα.
Δεν είμαι σίγουρη πως η τοποθέτηση του στόρι στην Ιταλία βοηθάει και πολύ τα πράγματα. Υπάρχει μια αρκετά στερεοτυπική αντίληψη όσον αφορά τα βιβλία που αφορούν την Ιταλική κουλτούρα, με τους συγγραφείς –πολλές φορές- να πέφτουν πολύ εύκολα σε παγίδες φτηνού εντυπωσιασμού, όπως ακριβώς συμβαίνει κι εδώ, μα και θέλοντας να μας πείσουν πως το έργο τους είναι πιο κουλτουριάρικο απ’ ότι είναι στην πραγματικότητα. Δυστυχώς, η συγγραφέας έχει πέσει πάνω σ’ όλους αυτούς τους σκοπέλους και τους έχει πάρει αμπάριζα.
Και μένοντας στην συγγραφέα… προσπαθεί απεγνωσμένα να μας πείσει ότι έχει κάνει ιστορική έρευνα γύρω από την ιστορία της. Δεν αντιλέγω, σ’ ένα βαθμό φαίνεται πως έχει ψάξει ένα δυο πραγματάκια, παρ’ όλα ταύτα υπάρχουν πολλές αφηγηματικές αστοχίες και κυρίως πολλά προβλήματα ως προς το εκφραστικό κομμάτι. Ουσιαστικά, δεν έχει προσαρμόσει την αφήγησή της, και ιδίως τους διαλόγους της, έτσι ώστε να ταιριάζουν στο ύφος και στην πραγματικότητα της εκάστοτε εποχής στην οποία τοποθετείται.
Ούτε οι χαρακτήρες είναι πολύ καλά δουλεμένοι. Ναι μεν υπάρχουν κάποιοι που είναι πιο συμπαθείς από κάποιους άλλους, ή που και παρουσιάζουν κάποιο ενδιαφέρον, αλλά η συγγραφέας δεν έχει βρει τον σωστό τρόπο που πρέπει να τους χειριστεί σε ψυχαναλυτικό επίπεδο, αλλά και σε επίπεδο τοποθέτησής τους μέσα στο χρόνο. Ουσιαστικά, είτε από το παρελθόν είτε από τον σύγχρονο κόσμο, όλοι φαίνεται να κινούνται, περίπου, στο ίδιο μήκος κύματος, ενώ σαφέστατα δεν θα έπρεπε.
Πολύ δράμα… Πάρα πολύ δράμα… Και μελό… Πολύ μελό… Και ο συνδυασμός αυτός είναι κακός γιατί οδηγεί στο μελόδραμα. Και στην προκειμένη περίπτωση, στο ανούσιο και δίχως λογική μελόδραμα, που υπάρχει απλά για να μας βασανίζει και να χτυπάει κόκκινο το νευρικό μας σύστημα. Όσο για την διαχείριση των χρόνων, ανάμεσα στο κάποτε και στο σήμερα, κάπου το βρίσκει, κάπου το χάνει, τείνοντας τις περισσότερες φορές στο δεύτερο άκρο.
(Αναλυτικό review αν τελικά κυκλοφορήσει...)
Η γραφή είναι αμήχανη και η ιστορία καταφεύγει σε τόσα πολλά κλισέ που δεν μπορείς να παραβλέψεις το ότι καταλήγουν να είναι υπερβολικά πολλά για να τα διαχειριστείς. Σαφέστατα και σε όλα τα βιβλία του είδους γίνεται χρήση αυτών, αλλά αν δεν υπάρχει μέτρο, όπως στη προκειμένη περίπτωση, είναι πολύ εύκολο να χαθούν όλα.
Δεν είμαι σίγουρη πως η τοποθέτηση του στόρι στην Ιταλία βοηθάει και πολύ τα πράγματα. Υπάρχει μια αρκετά στερεοτυπική αντίληψη όσον αφορά τα βιβλία που αφορούν την Ιταλική κουλτούρα, με τους συγγραφείς –πολλές φορές- να πέφτουν πολύ εύκολα σε παγίδες φτηνού εντυπωσιασμού, όπως ακριβώς συμβαίνει κι εδώ, μα και θέλοντας να μας πείσουν πως το έργο τους είναι πιο κουλτουριάρικο απ’ ότι είναι στην πραγματικότητα. Δυστυχώς, η συγγραφέας έχει πέσει πάνω σ’ όλους αυτούς τους σκοπέλους και τους έχει πάρει αμπάριζα.
Και μένοντας στην συγγραφέα… προσπαθεί απεγνωσμένα να μας πείσει ότι έχει κάνει ιστορική έρευνα γύρω από την ιστορία της. Δεν αντιλέγω, σ’ ένα βαθμό φαίνεται πως έχει ψάξει ένα δυο πραγματάκια, παρ’ όλα ταύτα υπάρχουν πολλές αφηγηματικές αστοχίες και κυρίως πολλά προβλήματα ως προς το εκφραστικό κομμάτι. Ουσιαστικά, δεν έχει προσαρμόσει την αφήγησή της, και ιδίως τους διαλόγους της, έτσι ώστε να ταιριάζουν στο ύφος και στην πραγματικότητα της εκάστοτε εποχής στην οποία τοποθετείται.
Ούτε οι χαρακτήρες είναι πολύ καλά δουλεμένοι. Ναι μεν υπάρχουν κάποιοι που είναι πιο συμπαθείς από κάποιους άλλους, ή που και παρουσιάζουν κάποιο ενδιαφέρον, αλλά η συγγραφέας δεν έχει βρει τον σωστό τρόπο που πρέπει να τους χειριστεί σε ψυχαναλυτικό επίπεδο, αλλά και σε επίπεδο τοποθέτησής τους μέσα στο χρόνο. Ουσιαστικά, είτε από το παρελθόν είτε από τον σύγχρονο κόσμο, όλοι φαίνεται να κινούνται, περίπου, στο ίδιο μήκος κύματος, ενώ σαφέστατα δεν θα έπρεπε.
Πολύ δράμα… Πάρα πολύ δράμα… Και μελό… Πολύ μελό… Και ο συνδυασμός αυτός είναι κακός γιατί οδηγεί στο μελόδραμα. Και στην προκειμένη περίπτωση, στο ανούσιο και δίχως λογική μελόδραμα, που υπάρχει απλά για να μας βασανίζει και να χτυπάει κόκκινο το νευρικό μας σύστημα. Όσο για την διαχείριση των χρόνων, ανάμεσα στο κάποτε και στο σήμερα, κάπου το βρίσκει, κάπου το χάνει, τείνοντας τις περισσότερες φορές στο δεύτερο άκρο.
(Αναλυτικό review αν τελικά κυκλοφορήσει...)
February 12, 2015
An absolutely fabulous story that had me living and breathing Pisa. The author has woven a very clever tale about how the tower came about and created a convincing story about who might be the architect involved in designing the tower. Both parts of this amazing story, the one set in Pisa in the 12th century and the one at the end of the 20th century are described so beautifully that both settings came alive for me. Most of all, I loved Berta, Aurelia and Gerardo’s story. The parts switched seamlessly back and forth and I adored every word. The detail about the building of the tower shows the amount of research the author has done but it never overpowers what is essentially a beautiful love story. The author has an incredible knack of bringing the characters to life. I could picture the landscape and the lives being led in 12th century Pisa – it felt like I was right there, experiencing everything. A beautiful story from an exceptional new author – it was hard to believe this is her debut as it is assuredly written and unfolds brilliantly towards a satisfying climax. Can’t wait for Debbie Rix’s next book.
December 10, 2016
This is a speculative historical fiction, which looks at the Leaning Tower of Pisa. We begin in modern day with a woman who is almost convinced that her TV producer husband is seeing someone else, while she's had to leave her journalism career to raise their three kids. Then the husband has a stroke out in Pisa, where he's researching for a documentary, and his wife has to go to him.
Next we see life in the Renaissance town of Pisa, a marshy place full of disease but on a good trade route. An architect's daughter, educated unlike many girls, is married off to a sea trader and doesn't want for fine goods. She does lack children. Somehow she strikes up acquaintance with a young man on a building site - the cathedral or duomo is being built, and will require a bell tower - and thinks about adultery, but I was never really convinced that she would go through with it, having so much to lose, or that she could have remained anonymous in such an atmosphere.
The modern woman with time to kill, starts looking into the handsome bell tower made famous by its lean. She wonders, as many others have, who the architect was.
To my mind the modern story is the slighter but this is a tribute to the strength of the evocative writing which surrounds us with the sounds, smells, sights and flavours of the historic city. Anyone interested in architecture will enjoy this puzzle, or a lover of historical monuments. There is also a love story or two or three woven into the tale, with a look at the contrasting places of women. I would compare this book to The Birth of Venus by Sarah Dunant, set in Florence, which put much stronger emphasis on religion and dark matters.
Next we see life in the Renaissance town of Pisa, a marshy place full of disease but on a good trade route. An architect's daughter, educated unlike many girls, is married off to a sea trader and doesn't want for fine goods. She does lack children. Somehow she strikes up acquaintance with a young man on a building site - the cathedral or duomo is being built, and will require a bell tower - and thinks about adultery, but I was never really convinced that she would go through with it, having so much to lose, or that she could have remained anonymous in such an atmosphere.
The modern woman with time to kill, starts looking into the handsome bell tower made famous by its lean. She wonders, as many others have, who the architect was.
To my mind the modern story is the slighter but this is a tribute to the strength of the evocative writing which surrounds us with the sounds, smells, sights and flavours of the historic city. Anyone interested in architecture will enjoy this puzzle, or a lover of historical monuments. There is also a love story or two or three woven into the tale, with a look at the contrasting places of women. I would compare this book to The Birth of Venus by Sarah Dunant, set in Florence, which put much stronger emphasis on religion and dark matters.
August 2, 2015
For many years my husband had a dream to visit Tuscany; I was willing enough, as I love seeing the world and I had not yet been to Italy. Finally, in 2012, we all went: my whole family, that is my husband, myself and our two adult children. It would be our last holiday together, as my husband’s health has since deteriorated so dramatically that he is now bedridden in a care home. And so my memories of the enchanting Tuscan landscapes and the beautiful cities we visited will always hold especially poignant memories for me. Pisa was probably the highlight of this trip. So it was that when I heard of this novel I grabbed it and devoured it; it took me back through the ages, down the streets, along the lanes of the city, and took me on a wonderful flight of the imagination. For anyone who loves to travel, whether it is back in time or to places far from home, this book is a must-read. I loved it, and kept turning the pages. What more can a reader ask? A fully satisfying read.
March 9, 2015
Secrets of the Tower is a novel that captivates and intrigues and uses Pisa and its unique Tower as a backdrop to a fascinating and thoroughly entertaining tale.
Recounted through narratives alternating between two different time periods, 12th century Pisa and the end of the 20th century, Debbie Rix manages flawlessly to capture the essence of both periods with vivid images and glimpses into the lives of both past and present day Pisa and its landscape, architecture, customs and inhabitants.
It's 1999 and Michael Campbell is in Pisa to make a television documentary about the tower but suffers a stroke. Wife, Sam travels to Pisa to be with him. The meeting by chance of a fellow traveller will later prove to be invaluable but test where her heart really lies.
Continuing her husbands research whilst he recovers, Sam uncovers information that will take her back to 12th century Pisa, introduce her to the beautiful Berta DI Bernardo, her rich merchant husband Lorenzo and the young and ambitious mason Gerardo and could answer the question as to the mystery of the Towers unknown architect.
A fabulous read and one I would recommend. Look forward to reading more from a talented author.
Thanks bookouture for a copy
Recounted through narratives alternating between two different time periods, 12th century Pisa and the end of the 20th century, Debbie Rix manages flawlessly to capture the essence of both periods with vivid images and glimpses into the lives of both past and present day Pisa and its landscape, architecture, customs and inhabitants.
It's 1999 and Michael Campbell is in Pisa to make a television documentary about the tower but suffers a stroke. Wife, Sam travels to Pisa to be with him. The meeting by chance of a fellow traveller will later prove to be invaluable but test where her heart really lies.
Continuing her husbands research whilst he recovers, Sam uncovers information that will take her back to 12th century Pisa, introduce her to the beautiful Berta DI Bernardo, her rich merchant husband Lorenzo and the young and ambitious mason Gerardo and could answer the question as to the mystery of the Towers unknown architect.
A fabulous read and one I would recommend. Look forward to reading more from a talented author.
Thanks bookouture for a copy
July 19, 2015
I loved the fascinating setting that Debbie Rix evoked in her novel - I knew nothing whatsoever of what life might be like in 12st century Italy and Rix has clearly done a huge amount of research for this book which sings confidently throughout its pages. The characters were wonderful, particularly that of the passionate and impulsive Berta and if I ever make it to Pisa (which I very much hope I will!), I will definitely re-read this book before going to make my visit more meaningful. I was really impressed with the way Rix effortlessly combined fact with fiction, a possible story behind the enigmatic 'BB' signature given to the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Her story is just as feasible as any other, made all the more compelling in a long-forgotten Southern European world in which women were not treated as the equals of men, thereby Rix giving a voice to a powerful woman of the time who bucked convention to place her mark on the world forever. I must confess I preferred the story set in 12th century to the modern day story of Sam, her husband and Dario which ran simultaneously, but regardless, this was a compelling and fascinating read and I look forward to Debbie's next book.
January 28, 2015
Thanks Bookouture and netgalley for arc
Perfect historical fiction mixed with present day. I can't say enough how much I enjoyed this book. It had just the right mix of emotions, love scenes, history, and atmosphere. I gobbled it up over the afternoon and night. Definitely want to read this author again. Debbie Rix found a unique part of history to explore, and it was just right.
Perfect historical fiction mixed with present day. I can't say enough how much I enjoyed this book. It had just the right mix of emotions, love scenes, history, and atmosphere. I gobbled it up over the afternoon and night. Definitely want to read this author again. Debbie Rix found a unique part of history to explore, and it was just right.
October 18, 2018
I was born in Pisa and I couldn't wait to read a book set in my city. It was an interesting and fascinating reading, the author was very good at describing life in the 12th century that really seemed to be there. Both stories, the one set in the XII century and the one in the XX , are well built and the transition from one to another was very compelling making the reading even more engaging.
Sam's husband has a stroke while in Pisa to make a documentary. She reaches him and casually discovers the story of Berta, of her husband Lorenzo and architect Gerardo ....
It's really well written, it does not seem to be written by a debut author.
Highly recommended
Sam's husband has a stroke while in Pisa to make a documentary. She reaches him and casually discovers the story of Berta, of her husband Lorenzo and architect Gerardo ....
It's really well written, it does not seem to be written by a debut author.
Highly recommended
May 26, 2018
Enjoyed reading this book based around the history of the Tower of Pisa.
March 13, 2015
“Secrets of the Tower is inspired by Debbie's own story: her husband, a television producer, had a stroke whilst making a film for Channel 4 about the Leaning Tower of Pisa in the 1990s. The novel also reflects her love of architecture - an interest which is hard-wired into her DNA as both her parents were architects. Many of the historical characters featured are based on real people”.
Pisa is a city that is beautiful, ornate, and rich in history. It is home to some of the most magnificent attractions in Europe including its beloved Bell Tower. Established by the Greeks, perhaps and occupied by the Romans, the mystery lies beyond what we can ponder. Debbie Rix in “Secrets of the Tower” weaves unforgettable characters with remarkable historical perception. Rix is a master storyteller who has woven a tale of adventure, romance and inspiration that will touch your heart.
Pisa is much more than a city with a funky bell tower- it is a mecca of centuries-old culture, commercial endeavors, ancient settlements and high education. Though it is most famous for its incredible leaning tower, it is quite clear to those who spend some time in Pisa that there's much more going on that flawed construction. And that is exactly what Debbie Rix in “Secrets of the Tower” reveals in a most intricate weaved myriad anecdote. The narrative alternates between two different time periods spreading the decade from the 12th to the 20th century.
I assume you have read the general description of the storyline. This is one of those well researched novels that comes to life in your mind. History is no longer in the past, you are there. You see, feel, hear and experience it all and find yourself invested in the lives of the characters. This stand-alone novel has all the makings of a great romance: love, intrigue, mystery and unforgettable characters. Rix's historical details are incredible. Her dedicated research resulted in a remarkably authentic and insightful portrait of the city, its inhabitants and the rhythms that characterized daily life during this particularly tumultuous period of history. Treated as a character in and of itself, the city literally comes to life over the course of the narrative, jumping from page with a personality of its own.
This is a clean Christian romance, and when you lose yourself in a novel by Debbie Rix, ……you surrender to real emotion, heartbreaking crisis, unassailable love, triumphant reawakening, and the breathtaking power of an exceptional story beautifully told. I would definitely recommend this book, the fluidity of eloquent language, a descriptive world between two eras in history, and faith-based undertones definitely carry a light that is incredible and brings a new emotional and exciting story to the table. Thank you Debbie Rix for sharing your story.
I was given this book to read for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. . I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Pisa is a city that is beautiful, ornate, and rich in history. It is home to some of the most magnificent attractions in Europe including its beloved Bell Tower. Established by the Greeks, perhaps and occupied by the Romans, the mystery lies beyond what we can ponder. Debbie Rix in “Secrets of the Tower” weaves unforgettable characters with remarkable historical perception. Rix is a master storyteller who has woven a tale of adventure, romance and inspiration that will touch your heart.
Pisa is much more than a city with a funky bell tower- it is a mecca of centuries-old culture, commercial endeavors, ancient settlements and high education. Though it is most famous for its incredible leaning tower, it is quite clear to those who spend some time in Pisa that there's much more going on that flawed construction. And that is exactly what Debbie Rix in “Secrets of the Tower” reveals in a most intricate weaved myriad anecdote. The narrative alternates between two different time periods spreading the decade from the 12th to the 20th century.
I assume you have read the general description of the storyline. This is one of those well researched novels that comes to life in your mind. History is no longer in the past, you are there. You see, feel, hear and experience it all and find yourself invested in the lives of the characters. This stand-alone novel has all the makings of a great romance: love, intrigue, mystery and unforgettable characters. Rix's historical details are incredible. Her dedicated research resulted in a remarkably authentic and insightful portrait of the city, its inhabitants and the rhythms that characterized daily life during this particularly tumultuous period of history. Treated as a character in and of itself, the city literally comes to life over the course of the narrative, jumping from page with a personality of its own.
This is a clean Christian romance, and when you lose yourself in a novel by Debbie Rix, ……you surrender to real emotion, heartbreaking crisis, unassailable love, triumphant reawakening, and the breathtaking power of an exceptional story beautifully told. I would definitely recommend this book, the fluidity of eloquent language, a descriptive world between two eras in history, and faith-based undertones definitely carry a light that is incredible and brings a new emotional and exciting story to the table. Thank you Debbie Rix for sharing your story.
I was given this book to read for my honest review. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. . I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
April 1, 2015
I would like to say a big thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley for allowing me to read this magnificent book in exchange of an honest review.
Well, what can I say about this book? I love history, I love Italy, I love the Italian language and I love reading a good book with strong, believable characters. This book simply had the right mixture of ingredients for me. It is beautifully written with the past blended in nicely with the present. I couldn't ask for more.
Who was the original designer of the famous tower of Pisa? There has always been a mystery shrouding the real identity of the architect who designed this famous landmark. And it's around this mystery that the author has skilfully weaved this great story - a story of love, dreams, rivalry and jealousy, using both fictitious and real historical characters.
The chapters take us back and forth in time from the 1990s to 12th century Pisa, unraveling the story of two determined women separated by over 800 years but with one common interest - la Torre.
1999. Sam Campbell's husband, Michael, a producer of documentaries, suffers a stroke in Italy, while working on a film about the leaning tower of Pisa's extraordinary design and history. She finds him in hospital unable to complete his project. Being an ex-reporter herself she's mystified by this beautiful engineering feat, and intrigued by its mystery, she decides to take on the investigation where Michael had left it. As Sam begins to dig deep into the tower's mysterious history, the author takes us back in time to 1171. Who was Berta di Bernardo? Who was Gerardo di Gerardo? What key role did these people play in the history of the Tower of Pisa?
Thanks to the author's vivid descriptions, I was taken back to medieval Pisa. I could clearly visualise the tower houses, the dark, dangerous alleys and the galleys travelling up and down the Arno river. I could almost see Berta, the strong-willed, red-haired 'signora' in her regal silk and brocade dresses and the tower taking shape in the Piazza del Duomo.
Even when I was not reading, I kept on thinking of the characters. When I finished it, I ended up actually missing them. If you, like me, love good, well-balanced historical fiction novels based on true facts, then I highly recommend you grab this book and read it. I am now looking forward to read more books by this author. Well done Debbie Rix!!
Well, what can I say about this book? I love history, I love Italy, I love the Italian language and I love reading a good book with strong, believable characters. This book simply had the right mixture of ingredients for me. It is beautifully written with the past blended in nicely with the present. I couldn't ask for more.
Who was the original designer of the famous tower of Pisa? There has always been a mystery shrouding the real identity of the architect who designed this famous landmark. And it's around this mystery that the author has skilfully weaved this great story - a story of love, dreams, rivalry and jealousy, using both fictitious and real historical characters.
The chapters take us back and forth in time from the 1990s to 12th century Pisa, unraveling the story of two determined women separated by over 800 years but with one common interest - la Torre.
1999. Sam Campbell's husband, Michael, a producer of documentaries, suffers a stroke in Italy, while working on a film about the leaning tower of Pisa's extraordinary design and history. She finds him in hospital unable to complete his project. Being an ex-reporter herself she's mystified by this beautiful engineering feat, and intrigued by its mystery, she decides to take on the investigation where Michael had left it. As Sam begins to dig deep into the tower's mysterious history, the author takes us back in time to 1171. Who was Berta di Bernardo? Who was Gerardo di Gerardo? What key role did these people play in the history of the Tower of Pisa?
Thanks to the author's vivid descriptions, I was taken back to medieval Pisa. I could clearly visualise the tower houses, the dark, dangerous alleys and the galleys travelling up and down the Arno river. I could almost see Berta, the strong-willed, red-haired 'signora' in her regal silk and brocade dresses and the tower taking shape in the Piazza del Duomo.
Even when I was not reading, I kept on thinking of the characters. When I finished it, I ended up actually missing them. If you, like me, love good, well-balanced historical fiction novels based on true facts, then I highly recommend you grab this book and read it. I am now looking forward to read more books by this author. Well done Debbie Rix!!
March 20, 2015
What a wonderful book, with the balance just right between the historical and present day stories. I read it in a couple of enjoyable sittings.
In 1999 Sam has come to Italy to the bedside of her unfaithful husband. He has had a stoke while researching a documentary about the leaning tower of Pisa and so she decides to use her time to continue his research after becoming increasingly fascinated by the mystery of who designed the tower.
In the twelfth century Berta, married to a rich merchant, becomes infatuated with a young stonemason, Gerardo. Her money will eventually be the starting block of this new landmark but how and why is it so important to her?
I absolutely loved this book. The amount of research that would have been involved to bring together known historical facts and people and then to blend them into a work of fiction is tremendous! I found the historical parts of this novel more enjoyable than the present day but only because i was impatient to discover more about the relationships of the characters. Sam's dalliance with a handsome Italian, who also happens to know people that help her research, provides a lighter contrast to the past. The leaning tower is one of the most recognisable buildings in the world and to have built a story around its conception was a brilliant and well executed idea. I look forward to reading more by Debbie Rix but worry that it won't be in the foreseeable future if she has to do the same amount of intricate research for her next novel! This is an easy to review 5* read from me-perfect if you are heading to to Italy on your hols this year.
I received a copy of this book via netgalley in return for an honest review.
In 1999 Sam has come to Italy to the bedside of her unfaithful husband. He has had a stoke while researching a documentary about the leaning tower of Pisa and so she decides to use her time to continue his research after becoming increasingly fascinated by the mystery of who designed the tower.
In the twelfth century Berta, married to a rich merchant, becomes infatuated with a young stonemason, Gerardo. Her money will eventually be the starting block of this new landmark but how and why is it so important to her?
I absolutely loved this book. The amount of research that would have been involved to bring together known historical facts and people and then to blend them into a work of fiction is tremendous! I found the historical parts of this novel more enjoyable than the present day but only because i was impatient to discover more about the relationships of the characters. Sam's dalliance with a handsome Italian, who also happens to know people that help her research, provides a lighter contrast to the past. The leaning tower is one of the most recognisable buildings in the world and to have built a story around its conception was a brilliant and well executed idea. I look forward to reading more by Debbie Rix but worry that it won't be in the foreseeable future if she has to do the same amount of intricate research for her next novel! This is an easy to review 5* read from me-perfect if you are heading to to Italy on your hols this year.
I received a copy of this book via netgalley in return for an honest review.
March 22, 2015
What a thoroughly beautiful read, took me away to 12th century Pisa, and the modern story was equally strong too. Proper review to follow...
March 24, 2015
Bookouture are fast becoming one of my favourite publishers due to the wide variety of genres on offer. I don't think I have yet been disappointed with anything I have read by this innovative publisher. The Poet's Wife and The Small Fortune of Dorothea Q having been just two of their brilliant reads released in the past few months that I thoroughly enjoyed. So I looked forward to reading this debut historical fiction novel by Debbie Rix – Secrets of the Tower. This is a time slip novel and as I have said on numerous occasions previously I am a huge fan of books that use this method so before I had even started reading this book I was already sold. Too say I was hooked from the word go would be an understatement, even from reading the prologue despite how short it was I knew I was in for a seriously excitingly good read. Debbie Rix is a hugely talented writer and it's hard to believe this is her first novel as she writes with such confidence and assurance of her time and place.The characters and setting just leap off the pages and it evident the author thoroughly enjoyed the research and writing of Secrets of the Tower.
Even though the prologue to this story was only a page it was instantly gripping through such a mysterious description of an unnamed man falling from the half built Leaning Tower of Pisa. From here on we move between Pisa in 1999 and old Pisa in 1171. In the modern day setting Sam gets a phone call to say her husband Michael has fallen seriously ill when shooting a documentary on the history of the tower. Things had not been good between the pair but Sam puts this all aside to fly to her husbands side. Initially I was confused whether the couple were still together as the writing implied they weren’t due to a girl named Carrie. Sam had confronted Michael with her doubts but they had never been fully confirmed. I thought it was admirable of Sam to go to her husband when he needs her the most despite not fully trusting him. It showed she still cared for him and that she is a strong woman. Michael has had a stroke so at the loss of what to do except sit by his bedside with the help of Dario (a man she met at the airport and whose father has a bookshop) Sam begins research into the tower and its surprising history.Just who did build the tower and why?
In Pisa in 1171 we met Berta married to a wealthy trader,there is big age gap between them and in spite of initial years of love she is longing for more. There are no children which is an obvious bone of contention so Berta looks to something else to fill her endless days.She indulges her love for architecture and the arts and encourages up and coming artists and sculptors. Here she meets Gerardo and she is instantly smitten, she wants the best for the young stonemason and will do anything to achieve this for him. She wants a tower built (like so many at the time) but one that will rival all the others and she uses her wealth to make her ambitions come true.So begins a story of a romantic love triangle, mystery and suspense. So much happens that at times it was hard to keep track of who was who and what was happening as Aurelia ( Berta's maid) also fell in love with Gerardo. It was interesting how the situations the characters (both in the past and present) found themselves in in terms of their personal relationships mirrored each other. At times I felt Geradro never revealed his true self, he never knew what he wanted (in fact I didn't know who he would end up with) but he was always thinking of his future and what he could gain.
Both elements of the story were as equally interesting as the other. This can be hard to achieve as sometimes the past can be stronger than the present or the contrasting characters and eras bounce off off one another instead of blending but here the writing and transitions flowed effortlessly. Although I do think I preferred the characters of Berta, Auerlia and Gerardo even though they lived so long ago their issues of their love triangle mirrored those of Sam and her husband. They were brought to life so well that I identified with them more and had more compassion for Aurelia the further the book progressed. In the present Sam annoyed me at times it was like she was pandering to Michael to fulfil his every need even though he was the one who was meant to have had the affair. Michael came across as arrogant, self centred and selfish. Surely it was him who should have been doing his best to make it up to Sam? Their ending was a bit disappointing it felt like a bit of a cop out and I had hoped for something different.
Debbie Rix through her wonderfully sharp writing evokes a clear strong picture of all the sights and sounds of Pisa both in the modern day and in the past. It's rare that I really feel as if I am alongside the characters as they negotiate the ups and downs of the story but with this book the sights, sounds, smells and inhabitants of Pisa were so vividly brought to life. I instantly felt as if I was with each character every step of the way in a time of great importance, creativity and discovery in the history of Italy. The Tower itself is like a fully formed character that holds so many secrets that have a profound influence on the overall storyline. It is always there in the background watching and observing waiting for someone to discover what is hidden behind its meaning.
What fun the author must have had researching all historical aspects of the time and visiting such a beautiful and interesting city. Debbie's enthusiasm for her subject just leaps from the pages as she achieves the right balance between historical fact and fiction. Too often books can books can become bogged down into historical details that leave the reader feeling overwhelmed and the essence of the story can be lost under all this. Not so in this case there is just the right amount of detail to inform but being a lover of history anyway (having studied it as part of my degree) I was fascinated reading about Italy and Pisa at this time. Previous to this I had never read anything set in Italy except a book by Marina Fiorato so it was a welcome change to read of a different era apart from the influx of World War Two books I have read recently.
This is a multi layered novel with a lot going on but it held my interest right until the very end as in even in the epilogue a few surprises were in store for the reader. Secrets of the Tower is epic in scale and length but all the more enjoyable for it.If you are looking for a historic read that s just that little bit different you can't go wrong with this wonderful début from Debbie Rix.I for one will be keen to see where this extremely promising author will take us next. I'm already looking forward to the journey Debbie will take us on.
Even though the prologue to this story was only a page it was instantly gripping through such a mysterious description of an unnamed man falling from the half built Leaning Tower of Pisa. From here on we move between Pisa in 1999 and old Pisa in 1171. In the modern day setting Sam gets a phone call to say her husband Michael has fallen seriously ill when shooting a documentary on the history of the tower. Things had not been good between the pair but Sam puts this all aside to fly to her husbands side. Initially I was confused whether the couple were still together as the writing implied they weren’t due to a girl named Carrie. Sam had confronted Michael with her doubts but they had never been fully confirmed. I thought it was admirable of Sam to go to her husband when he needs her the most despite not fully trusting him. It showed she still cared for him and that she is a strong woman. Michael has had a stroke so at the loss of what to do except sit by his bedside with the help of Dario (a man she met at the airport and whose father has a bookshop) Sam begins research into the tower and its surprising history.Just who did build the tower and why?
In Pisa in 1171 we met Berta married to a wealthy trader,there is big age gap between them and in spite of initial years of love she is longing for more. There are no children which is an obvious bone of contention so Berta looks to something else to fill her endless days.She indulges her love for architecture and the arts and encourages up and coming artists and sculptors. Here she meets Gerardo and she is instantly smitten, she wants the best for the young stonemason and will do anything to achieve this for him. She wants a tower built (like so many at the time) but one that will rival all the others and she uses her wealth to make her ambitions come true.So begins a story of a romantic love triangle, mystery and suspense. So much happens that at times it was hard to keep track of who was who and what was happening as Aurelia ( Berta's maid) also fell in love with Gerardo. It was interesting how the situations the characters (both in the past and present) found themselves in in terms of their personal relationships mirrored each other. At times I felt Geradro never revealed his true self, he never knew what he wanted (in fact I didn't know who he would end up with) but he was always thinking of his future and what he could gain.
Both elements of the story were as equally interesting as the other. This can be hard to achieve as sometimes the past can be stronger than the present or the contrasting characters and eras bounce off off one another instead of blending but here the writing and transitions flowed effortlessly. Although I do think I preferred the characters of Berta, Auerlia and Gerardo even though they lived so long ago their issues of their love triangle mirrored those of Sam and her husband. They were brought to life so well that I identified with them more and had more compassion for Aurelia the further the book progressed. In the present Sam annoyed me at times it was like she was pandering to Michael to fulfil his every need even though he was the one who was meant to have had the affair. Michael came across as arrogant, self centred and selfish. Surely it was him who should have been doing his best to make it up to Sam? Their ending was a bit disappointing it felt like a bit of a cop out and I had hoped for something different.
Debbie Rix through her wonderfully sharp writing evokes a clear strong picture of all the sights and sounds of Pisa both in the modern day and in the past. It's rare that I really feel as if I am alongside the characters as they negotiate the ups and downs of the story but with this book the sights, sounds, smells and inhabitants of Pisa were so vividly brought to life. I instantly felt as if I was with each character every step of the way in a time of great importance, creativity and discovery in the history of Italy. The Tower itself is like a fully formed character that holds so many secrets that have a profound influence on the overall storyline. It is always there in the background watching and observing waiting for someone to discover what is hidden behind its meaning.
What fun the author must have had researching all historical aspects of the time and visiting such a beautiful and interesting city. Debbie's enthusiasm for her subject just leaps from the pages as she achieves the right balance between historical fact and fiction. Too often books can books can become bogged down into historical details that leave the reader feeling overwhelmed and the essence of the story can be lost under all this. Not so in this case there is just the right amount of detail to inform but being a lover of history anyway (having studied it as part of my degree) I was fascinated reading about Italy and Pisa at this time. Previous to this I had never read anything set in Italy except a book by Marina Fiorato so it was a welcome change to read of a different era apart from the influx of World War Two books I have read recently.
This is a multi layered novel with a lot going on but it held my interest right until the very end as in even in the epilogue a few surprises were in store for the reader. Secrets of the Tower is epic in scale and length but all the more enjoyable for it.If you are looking for a historic read that s just that little bit different you can't go wrong with this wonderful début from Debbie Rix.I for one will be keen to see where this extremely promising author will take us next. I'm already looking forward to the journey Debbie will take us on.
March 28, 2015
I got offered a chance to review this book, and given that it was historical fiction, I grabbed it.
I still find it difficult to believe that there was a time when I used to find history boring. I couldn't stand it, while in school. It took Philippa Gregory's books to make a convert of me.
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The author has done an interesting take on the mysteries surrounding the Leaning Tower of Pisa, while interweaving it with the life of a modern woman in 1999. Pisa in the 12th Century comes alive in Rix's words. The details of everyday life at that time is beautifully narrated. You are transported into Berta's life and city and then just as quickly, you are back in modern-day Pisa as Sam goes about with her day, trying hard to find out more about the elusive architect that designed the monument. The one thing in common in both times being the turmoil of human emotions. The emotions that could change the tide of our lives, our motivator in so many ways.
A well researched, well written book about two strong women characters. I especially love reading about strong women in history, especially when the society didn't allow for it. Berta was one such character. I particularly like the fact that she wasn't a black and white character. She was admirable, strong and also quite annoying in some ways, or just real, in other words. Sam was a character I could identify with.
If I have a complaint about this book, it would be that some 'complications' were resolved a bit too easily.
A 3.5/5 read for me. One that I would recommend to those who enjoy historical fiction.
Thank you Bookouture for the review copy of this book.
I still find it difficult to believe that there was a time when I used to find history boring. I couldn't stand it, while in school. It took Philippa Gregory's books to make a convert of me.
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Two women, centuries apart, bound together by the secrets of one of the most iconic buildings ever created.
Pisa, 1999
Sam Campbell sits by her husband’s hospital bed. Far from home and her children, she must care for Michael who is recovering from a stroke. A man she loves deeply. A man who has been unfaithful to her.
Alone and in need of distraction, Sam decides to pick up Michael’s research into the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Immersing herself in the ancient city, she begins to piece together the mystery behind the creation of the tower, and discovers the woman who history forgot…
Pisa, 1171
Berta di Bernardo, the wife of a rich merchant, sits in her chamber, dressing for a dinner party. A gathering that will change the course of her life and a young master mason, Gerardo, forever.
A strong, intelligent woman, Berta’s passion for architecture also draws her closer to Gerardo. As she embarks on a love affair, her maid Aurelia also becomes spellbound by the same man. Yet for Berta, her heart’s desire is to see the Tower built, and her determination knows no bounds…
The author has done an interesting take on the mysteries surrounding the Leaning Tower of Pisa, while interweaving it with the life of a modern woman in 1999. Pisa in the 12th Century comes alive in Rix's words. The details of everyday life at that time is beautifully narrated. You are transported into Berta's life and city and then just as quickly, you are back in modern-day Pisa as Sam goes about with her day, trying hard to find out more about the elusive architect that designed the monument. The one thing in common in both times being the turmoil of human emotions. The emotions that could change the tide of our lives, our motivator in so many ways.
A well researched, well written book about two strong women characters. I especially love reading about strong women in history, especially when the society didn't allow for it. Berta was one such character. I particularly like the fact that she wasn't a black and white character. She was admirable, strong and also quite annoying in some ways, or just real, in other words. Sam was a character I could identify with.
If I have a complaint about this book, it would be that some 'complications' were resolved a bit too easily.
A 3.5/5 read for me. One that I would recommend to those who enjoy historical fiction.
Thank you Bookouture for the review copy of this book.
March 24, 2015
Two women separated by time, experience the beautiful city of Pisa in a story which abounds with duplicity, passion and the temptation of marital infidelity. In 1999, Sam reacts to the news of her husband, Michael’s infidelity with sadness and confusion, which is made all the more poignant by discovering her husband has been taken seriously ill whilst making a documentary film about the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa.
In twelfth century Pisa, Berta di Bernardo is the young, pampered wife of a rich merchant, who becomes enamoured by Geraldo, a young mason employed to work on Pisa’s new campanile. Berta’s unusual interest in the complexities of the campanile’s architecture and of the internal politics connected with its construction make for fascinating reading.
What then follows is a cleverly researched and well written story which succeeds in bringing both the past and present to life. The clear distinctions between time frames allow the stunning city of Pisa to come gloriously alive, and whether walking its medieval streets in the company of Berta and her maid, Aurelia, or watching Sam pick up ice cold frappes and shopping for clothes in the modern day piazzas, the sense of time and place is authentic and really rather beautiful.
There is no doubt that this is a commendable debut novel. The author has a real gift for storytelling and by using her own experiences of modern day Pisa, she allows Sam and Michael’s very modern marriage dilemma to be played out with an authenticity which is both poignant and thought provoking. And yet for me, the real heart and soul of the novel was played out in the thoughts and feelings evoked by the twelfth century protagonists and of the constrictions placed on women. Keeping company with Berta and Aurelia as they go about their daily business made for compelling reading and certainly kept me turning the pages long into the night to see just how their story would play out.
Pisa both past and present comes alive with a lovely authenticity and the story sits comfortably within its dual time frame. I am sure Secrets of the Tower will appeal to historical fiction fans everywhere, and it’s certainly a book to load onto a reading device should you be heading to Italy on holiday.
In twelfth century Pisa, Berta di Bernardo is the young, pampered wife of a rich merchant, who becomes enamoured by Geraldo, a young mason employed to work on Pisa’s new campanile. Berta’s unusual interest in the complexities of the campanile’s architecture and of the internal politics connected with its construction make for fascinating reading.
What then follows is a cleverly researched and well written story which succeeds in bringing both the past and present to life. The clear distinctions between time frames allow the stunning city of Pisa to come gloriously alive, and whether walking its medieval streets in the company of Berta and her maid, Aurelia, or watching Sam pick up ice cold frappes and shopping for clothes in the modern day piazzas, the sense of time and place is authentic and really rather beautiful.
There is no doubt that this is a commendable debut novel. The author has a real gift for storytelling and by using her own experiences of modern day Pisa, she allows Sam and Michael’s very modern marriage dilemma to be played out with an authenticity which is both poignant and thought provoking. And yet for me, the real heart and soul of the novel was played out in the thoughts and feelings evoked by the twelfth century protagonists and of the constrictions placed on women. Keeping company with Berta and Aurelia as they go about their daily business made for compelling reading and certainly kept me turning the pages long into the night to see just how their story would play out.
Pisa both past and present comes alive with a lovely authenticity and the story sits comfortably within its dual time frame. I am sure Secrets of the Tower will appeal to historical fiction fans everywhere, and it’s certainly a book to load onto a reading device should you be heading to Italy on holiday.
March 20, 2015
I had no idea until I picked this book up that there was so much mystery around just who really designed the tower. I walk away from this story with so much more knowledge about Pisa, Italy, its history and architecture, than I had before.
But despite that awesome premise, I must confess I only made it to 65% before I had to just quit. Truth is, I wasn't enjoying the story. For me to enjoy a story I have to like and relate to its characters and while I could relate to the modern heroine, a wife and mother who has just discovered her husband has been straying yet can't leave him because he's in the hospital recovering from a stroke, I really hated the historical characters. Normally, it's the opposite for me.
While the story was dragging for me already--too much telling, not enough showing--I was actually interested in the modern heroine's research and the fact she was going back to journalism in a way and finding herself all over again, living for herself. But then it got into this historical love triangle between all the people I couldn't stand. Berta is a spoiled and self centered and mean. I can't stand the way she treats people. (The maid and the dress...geez.) I didn't think she deserved any happiness. Her maid Aurelia pines ridiculously for a jerk. And the jerk is the love interest of both of them, wooing, lying, deceiving, cheating.
And I hated them all, so the more the story got into this love triangle, the even more disinterested I became, until I finally no longer cared enough to even find out what became of the modern heroine. It simply wasn't worth it to me, trudging through that nonsense to get to what might be the good stuff.
There's also way too many coincidences. The handsome man just happens to have a father who just happens to have the original documents she needs and she just happens to run into...oh, you get the picture.
Full review: http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2015/...
But despite that awesome premise, I must confess I only made it to 65% before I had to just quit. Truth is, I wasn't enjoying the story. For me to enjoy a story I have to like and relate to its characters and while I could relate to the modern heroine, a wife and mother who has just discovered her husband has been straying yet can't leave him because he's in the hospital recovering from a stroke, I really hated the historical characters. Normally, it's the opposite for me.
While the story was dragging for me already--too much telling, not enough showing--I was actually interested in the modern heroine's research and the fact she was going back to journalism in a way and finding herself all over again, living for herself. But then it got into this historical love triangle between all the people I couldn't stand. Berta is a spoiled and self centered and mean. I can't stand the way she treats people. (The maid and the dress...geez.) I didn't think she deserved any happiness. Her maid Aurelia pines ridiculously for a jerk. And the jerk is the love interest of both of them, wooing, lying, deceiving, cheating.
And I hated them all, so the more the story got into this love triangle, the even more disinterested I became, until I finally no longer cared enough to even find out what became of the modern heroine. It simply wasn't worth it to me, trudging through that nonsense to get to what might be the good stuff.
There's also way too many coincidences. The handsome man just happens to have a father who just happens to have the original documents she needs and she just happens to run into...oh, you get the picture.
Full review: http://wwwbookbabe.blogspot.com/2015/...
June 1, 2015
This book has a dual narrative – set in 12th Century Pisa and modern day (1999). I loved the atmosphere of Pisa wrapped round you as you read. It’s somewhere I’d love to visit and I could really feel as though I was there, throughout the book. The two women in the book are bound by the history of the tower.
Sam is devastated to hear that her husband has suffered a stroke whilst on a research trip in Pisa. She goes to his side- even though he’s been unfaithful. Whilst dealing with all the stress she picks up his research papers and discovers the story of Berta.
She was an architect’s daughter married to a rich man. But riches don’t fulfil her. She has noticed a stone mason who sets her heart fluttering and she wants the Tower to be funded and built. Her maid has also become interested in the same man. Berta is very driven and a strong character. She’s fascinating.
It’s made me want to book a trip this summer!
With many thanks to Bookoutre and Net Galley for a copy of this wonderful book.
Sam is devastated to hear that her husband has suffered a stroke whilst on a research trip in Pisa. She goes to his side- even though he’s been unfaithful. Whilst dealing with all the stress she picks up his research papers and discovers the story of Berta.
She was an architect’s daughter married to a rich man. But riches don’t fulfil her. She has noticed a stone mason who sets her heart fluttering and she wants the Tower to be funded and built. Her maid has also become interested in the same man. Berta is very driven and a strong character. She’s fascinating.
It’s made me want to book a trip this summer!
With many thanks to Bookoutre and Net Galley for a copy of this wonderful book.
August 9, 2015
I love books with facts that I can google to find out more. Secrets of the Tower is a fabulous story with the history of Pisa beautifully told.
Sam’s husband, who is researching Pisa’s wonderful history, has had a stroke. Sam starts to read his notes and learns about Berta. Berta is remarkable, she is strong and fiesty, which in the 12th century was probably uncommon.
Told in two time phases, this tale is captivating and fabulous.
I must admit I am not a fan of historical novels but this one amazed me. What I loved most was Debbie’s distinctive insight into the relationships of the characters and also the historical facts.
Combining romance, drama and tragedy, Secrets of the Tower is a clever and interesting debut novel. I loved the descriptions of the place and was completely absorbed as Pisa was brought to life.
Debbie has given me an interest in this part of the world, and if ever I get to go, I will take this book and re-read on location.
Sam’s husband, who is researching Pisa’s wonderful history, has had a stroke. Sam starts to read his notes and learns about Berta. Berta is remarkable, she is strong and fiesty, which in the 12th century was probably uncommon.
Told in two time phases, this tale is captivating and fabulous.
I must admit I am not a fan of historical novels but this one amazed me. What I loved most was Debbie’s distinctive insight into the relationships of the characters and also the historical facts.
Combining romance, drama and tragedy, Secrets of the Tower is a clever and interesting debut novel. I loved the descriptions of the place and was completely absorbed as Pisa was brought to life.
Debbie has given me an interest in this part of the world, and if ever I get to go, I will take this book and re-read on location.
February 21, 2015
Enjoyable and engaging read, based on a possible theory into the mystery of who designed the Tower in Pisa, now known as the Leaning Tower of Pisa. The author has blended the past and the present cleverly, making clear links between the events and the characters, which provide the reader with a glimpse into events in the past and their lasting effect on the present. Some lovely descriptions of Pisa, both now and then, create a real sense of atmosphere that it is impossible to ignore and leave the reader with a yearning to visit this most beautiful of places. The author has found a hole in the story, which has been exploited to excellent effect, creating more food for thought for the reader about a mystery that has existed for over 800 years.
April 28, 2015
*A goodreads first read * A beautifully written book with a parallel between the historical and the present day. Two women, both with a passion for the Leaning Tower of Pisa. One to build it, the other to find out who was the force behind the tower and who designed it.
The story takes us back in time and then back to the present in a seamless provocative way, enticing the reader with what will happen next.
A passionate love story with tragedy weaving in and out of this romantic 12th century setting and mirroring the present.
I've learned so much I didn't know about this subject that I didn't have a clue about before, and it has encouraged me to get to visit this magnificent landmark in the future.
Thank you, Debbie
Youtube video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ol5Vk...
The story takes us back in time and then back to the present in a seamless provocative way, enticing the reader with what will happen next.
A passionate love story with tragedy weaving in and out of this romantic 12th century setting and mirroring the present.
I've learned so much I didn't know about this subject that I didn't have a clue about before, and it has encouraged me to get to visit this magnificent landmark in the future.
Thank you, Debbie
Youtube video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ol5Vk...
May 30, 2015
Absolutely terrible. This book is proof that traditional publishing is doomed: this got by the self-styled 'gate-keepers' while doubtlessly thousands of well-researched and well-written novels are relegated to the slush pile.
The writing is dismal. I can only assume that the author has never read anything about writing fiction, or perhaps any other novels. It's clumsy and stilted and relies on boring clichés. Particularly depressing is the depiction of modern Italians who are reduced to national stereotypes. The story itself is implausible and the two main characters are fairly obnoxious.
The writing is dismal. I can only assume that the author has never read anything about writing fiction, or perhaps any other novels. It's clumsy and stilted and relies on boring clichés. Particularly depressing is the depiction of modern Italians who are reduced to national stereotypes. The story itself is implausible and the two main characters are fairly obnoxious.
June 7, 2016
Simply ok.
The history was very interesting but the writing was mediocre at best.
Although I generally love a story flipping between two time frames I did not feel it worked with this book. The present century was simply not needed for this story.
The history was very interesting but the writing was mediocre at best.
Although I generally love a story flipping between two time frames I did not feel it worked with this book. The present century was simply not needed for this story.
August 31, 2015
Very good story. Well written. The author draws you in. Excellent.
July 30, 2018
The Girl With Emerald Eyes: A Heartbreaking Historical Novel of Love, Tragedy, and Secrets is by Debbie Rix. This is a wonderful and unusual novel set in Pisa, Italy around 1170 and again in the 1990’s. It is told in alternating chapter of the present and the past.
Samantha Campbell was a stay-at-home Mother of three these days; however, she had been a prominent journalist prior to having children and she missed that life. Her husband, Michael was in Italy filming a documentary on the Leaning Tower of Pisa while she remained home with the children. That is, until she received a phone call telling her that Michael was in the hospital in Pisa. Sam immediately arranged for her Mother to care for the children and rushed to Ital to her husband’s side in spite of the fact that she had just discovered he had an affair. Would he get well? Would the “other woman” come to the hospital? What would happen to Michael’s work?
The other portion of the novel takes place in 1171 and concerns Berta di Bernardo; her husband Lorenzo Calvo; her maid, Aurelia; Aurelia’s Mother Violetta, and a mason, Gerardo. It also concerns the architects of the major buildings in Pisa. Berta is married to Lorenzo but is unable to have a child so she puts her energy into making their home the most powerful one in Pisa. She takes interest in the building of the Duomo and other buildings and takes an interest in a young mason, Gerardo. Over the years, her interest in Gerardo turns into love and she sets out to take him as a lover. This is only possible with the help of her maid, Aurelia who has also fallen in love with Gerardo. Gerardo is in love with both women. What a love triangle? Will Berta be caught in her affair? What influence does she have in Pisa and over Gerardo’s livelihood?
The book definitely keeps you involved in both stories. Either one could be expanded into a book on its own; but the two stories together make a very intriguing story. It does make one want to do more research on the Leaning Tower of Pisa while you are reading and afterwards too.
November 20, 2023
The famous leaning tower is a thrill and delight to all who have seen it in the ‘flesh’.
This well researched fact and fiction read is therefore enticing. Add to that two sets of love stories and their own complications and you have a great story of them and now. Toggling between the 12th and 21st centuries the similarities and differences make food for thought forcing analysis of how far we have come socially speaking.
I love Debbie Rix’s books and this didn’t disappoint!!
This well researched fact and fiction read is therefore enticing. Add to that two sets of love stories and their own complications and you have a great story of them and now. Toggling between the 12th and 21st centuries the similarities and differences make food for thought forcing analysis of how far we have come socially speaking.
I love Debbie Rix’s books and this didn’t disappoint!!
October 19, 2022
Whether you plan to visit Pisa, have been, are there or are interested in the tower then this is the book for you. I started it before my arrival and it felt very atmospheric to be there whilst reading it. The parallel stories of the two women are effective and the story transitions smoothly between the two allowing enough time within each one. I heartily recommend it.
January 14, 2025
Spoilers - I enjoyed learning about the leaning tower of Pisa and its possible origins. I just wish that she would tell us more at the end regarding who were real people. I had to look up quite a bit about who the architects were at the time. I also find missing words in her books. A little too much with the love triangle in the 12th century characters. But a pretty good read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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October 29, 2018
The modern day part of this novel was okay. Can't say I loved it. However, I did love the historical love story behind the building of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Fascinating research done by this author. Very informative.
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